A lot to share in the publishing world! Several new books being released by Oloris Publishing, of which I am a co-founder. In celebration of the release of The Last Pantheon: Of Spiders and Falcons by Jason R Jones on October 30, here is an inspiring interview with the author:
5 Questions With Jason Jones
The first book in his epic fantasy series, The Last Pantheon: Of Spiders and Falcons, due out in October, Jason R. Jones took a few minutes to answer some questions for us.
1. When did you begin writing The Last Pantheon… what inspired you?
I had taken notes and filled binders to the point of busting out the packed sides of an old green laundry basket. It was full of handwritten ideas and stories beginning in 1991 and full by 1998, and there it sat. From Wisconsin to Florida, over many years, it collected dust and spiderwebs. In late 2009, going through a very stressful and devastating part of my life, I went to the attic and broke out the basket. I was a single father, divorce looming again, and financially ruined in the process. Most men would have found the bottle, the nightclub, or anything else. I found the pull down ladder to the attic. I was greeted by yellowed pages, browned ink, and some of it was illegible. My inspiration was being at the end of a painful rope, and deciding what to do now, between self destruction or a new beginning. So, under the title of The Exodus Sagas, book one “of spiders and falcons” was born in about 5 months.
2. Did you intend to write a series from the beginning or was there a moment when you realized the tale had grown beyond one book?
After going through notes not even peered at for over a decade, I began to piece it all together upon the garage floor. Soon, I had a quartet, then another, then four. The ending to the series, well, it became a duet. I tried for a more achievable number, but realized that my current stroke of inspiration should not be taken lightly. Four quartets and a duet, eighteen novels, so it was laid out, so it was titled and outlined, and so it was and shall be.
3. Considering your interest in mythology, was a lot of research involved or did it “write itself”?
Actually, my passion for mythology, old religions, and language only pushed me ahead, on a creative note. The time periods from 500 bc and 300 ad hold a struggling time, a time of change and darkness, and of oppressed enlightenment. Those centuries saw the fall of many religions into myth, and the rise of conquering beliefs that eradicated entire histories. So, based upon what I love and sympathize with in our own past, I wrote a different past, in a different place, where there could be hope for the survival of the many in place of the one.
4. What is your favorite part in Of Spiders and Falcons?
I love destiny, the writing in the stars that pulls things together that a blind man may call coincidence. Everything happens for a reason, whether we are to know the why of it in this life or not. When James is near his end, Shinayne is lost in love and tragedy, Saberrak is running for his life, and the three come together, it is fate. When Azenairk and Gwenneth cross their path, it is destiny. Where there was nothing one of them could do, brought together, there is a chance at something beyond just them. I would say, aboard the ship on the Carisian Sea, faced with impossible odds, five beings brought together with the divine can bring about a miracle, and take a step to a greater beyond…that is my favorite scene. Now, the hidden recovery theme of James Andellis, well that hits a little closer to home.
5. What has been the most difficult part in writing The Last Pantheon series?
The most difficult part is getting into the spirit of each character individually while perpetually moving many others through the same timeline, and having its purpose remain on course, without giving it away. I would love to tell the reader more of Johnas Valhera, describe and show why he is so wicked, but there are seventeen more novels, and leaving the reader a bit in the dark is necessary at times. Every stroke of the sword brings realism, but sharing everything about every antagonist and protagonist would dull it all out early. Holding back to let things grow and reveal at a natural pace, without my forcing them, that is the hardest part for me.
Penny Lockwood
Boo’s Bad Day
Julie, thanks for hosting me. At the end of the tour, I will pick out one
commenter’s name and send an autographed copy of Boo’s Bad Day to a United States address only. If the name I pick is someone who lives
outside the U.S., I will send a PDF copy of the book. So remember, readers, be sure to leave
contact information when you comment!
If your readers missed yesterday’s post, they can
catch up at http://dawnprochovnic.blogspot.com. Today’s visit is the last in a month-long tour for
Boo. It’s been quite the adventure.
Let’s start with a brief overview of your new book, Boo’s Bad
Day:
BOO’S
BAD DAY
By Penny Lockwood
Picture book for children aged 18
months to 6 years
Published by 4RV Publishing
ISBN# 13: 978-0-9852661-5-8
$8.99
includes s/h
Tagline:
Boo sneaks out of the house and
discovers that freedom by himself can be scary.
Blurb:
Boo is a
very bored kitten. When Timmy and his mom return home, Boo sneaks out of the
house. Boo is frightened by the noises
of the big world outside of the safety of his warm home. When Timmy coaxes Boo back into the house,
Boo realizes some places are safe and some are not.
This is the last stop on your blog tour – how does it feel?
I’ve had a wonderful time this past month. I’ve “met” several new people who have
stopped and taken the time to comment.
It’s been very encouraging for me to have so many people praising Boo’s Bad Day both with positive reviews
and comments. It’s not quite as exhausting as doing a live book tour, but it
has required time each day to visit the blogs who have been kind enough to host
me. I’ll miss the tour, but I’m also glad it’s coming to an end.
How many stops did you have? I’ve followed several of
them and it looks great!
Thanks. I’ve appreciated all the different approaches bloggers
have taken. It hasn’t seemed like the
same questions over and over, but I’ve had a chance to share lots of different
aspects of Boo’s Bad Day. We started
the tour on April 22, so there’s been a total of 33 blog stops.
When you were promoting Lady in Waiting and Mirror,
Mirror, you collected about 100 comments from all of the blog stops. How
have the comments been this time?
I’m composing my answers to your questions before the blog tour
has completed, but with several more stops to go, I’ve already had over 70
comments, so I guess there will be close to 100 again.
Are blog tours your favorite way to promote your books?
Definitely. I certainly
do Twitter announcements as well as promoting on Facebook and LinkedIn. However, I think the best way to actually
reach new readers is through a blog tour.
I’ve been fortunate to be hosted by bloggers around the world. I love getting comments from people living in
places I may never be able to visit.
I live in a small rural community, and although we had an
independent bookstore for a long time, it recently closed. The same is true, surprisingly, for the used
bookstores. We had two very good ones. One has already closed and the other is up
for sale. Both the owners of the two
used bookstores were quite supportive of local authors and would sell books on
consignment as well as host book signings.
I do have a school visit and a summer library visit planned,
both of which should be fun.
Boo's Bad Day is published through 4RV Publishing -
Vivian Zabel, one of the owners, seems like a great lady! What can you tell us
about working with this publisher?
You’re right. Vivian is a great person to work with. She’s very knowledgeable about the English
language, and the books she chooses to publish are exceptional. (I know…modest,
right?) She has an excellent acquisitions staff that only seeks out the best of
what’s submitted. As a small publisher,
she has to be sure what she publishes will be successful.
I was quite pleased when she took me on as a writer. Not only is 4RV the publisher for Boo’s Bad Day, but I have contracts for
two middle grade novels, Ghost for Rent and
Ghost for Lunch, which will be
packaged together, and another picture book Many
Colored Coats.
Have you ever considered publishing on your own? There
seems to be a lot of controversy about self- publishing, so what are your
thoughts on the subject?
I have not seriously considered publishing my fiction on my
own. I did look into possibly putting
together an eBook of writing tips, but I didn’t get very far with that
project. I like working with a
traditional publisher, even if it’s a small publisher. When you’re on your own, you have to do a lot
more work without the support of a publishing house to help you out. Granted these days, authors do most of the
promotional work themselves, but at least working with a publishing house, we
have access to ongoing support and help with promotion.
That said, I do think there is a place for self-publishing. It
no longer seems to have the stigma it had when people first started to do
it. There are a lot of quality
self-published books out there. There are also a lot of self-published books
which should have never seen the light of day… If an author has a niche book, or
a non-traditional topic, though, I think there is a better chance for success
by self-publishing.
When submitting to publishers, there is always the risk of
rejection. Have you had to deal with a few manuscript rejections?
Of course, hasn’t everyone.
I wish I’d known that when I first wanted to be a writer, oh so many
years ago… Now, I realize that even the
best of authors get rejected; even the big name authors were rejected at some
point in their lives. The trick is to not give up. I’ve found it often comes down to being in
the right place, at the right time, with the right story. Make sure it’s the
best it can be. Tweak it if you get a
promising rejection that offers constructive criticism. If you believe in your
story, keep sending it out. With luck, it just may find a home.
Sometimes publishers want to make changes to the manuscript.
What has been your experience regarding changes?
I’ve only had one major rewrite of a story. The publisher liked the premise, but he
wanted to see it from a different angle.
I completely rewrote the story, and it was accepted. Other times,
changes have been necessary because of grammatical errors or content
problems. I’ve learned to trust my
editors. Even though I’m an editor
myself, it’s amazing what my brain will interpret from what my eye actually
sees. Editors are wonderful people!
What are your plans for the rest of 2013?
I’m actually slowing down a bit as I have a new granddaughter
coming in July. I already watch my
almost two-year-old grandson a couple of days a week, and I hope to spend more
time with my grandchildren. I am primary
caregiver for my 97-year-old mom, so that takes a lot of my time. I’m working on a NA(new adult)/Adult fantasy,
and I also have a sequel to the Ghost
stories, which I’ve been working on for a while now.
Is there anything you would like to add?
Thank you all for following along on this blog tour. It’s been a lot of fun. I’ll be checking all the blog stops to be
sure I have everyone’s name. Then into
the hat those names will go. I’ll have
my grandson pull out a name, and I’ll be in touch to send off a signed copy of Boo’s Bad Day.
Thanks for being our guest! I always enjoy visiting with you, so be sure to keep me in mind for your next project and... enjoy your grandchildren!
Penny
Lockwood has published more than 100 articles, 75 stories, a chapbook, and her
stories have been included in two anthologies. She writes for both adults and
children. Her fiction has appeared in numerous genre and children’s
publications, and non‑fiction work has appeared in a variety of writing,
parenting, and young adult print magazines and on line publications. She edits for MuseItUp Publishing. Visit her web site at http:// pennylockwoodehrenkranz.yolasite.com.
Her writing blog is located at http://pennylockwoodehrenkranz.blogspot.com/.
She
has recently released Boo’s Bad Day
with 4RV Publishing and has three other children’s books under contract with
them: Ghost for Rent, Ghost for Lunch, and Many Colored Coats. She has three
romances published by MuseItUp Publishing: Love
Delivery, Lady in Waiting, and Mirror,
Mirror. Her short story collection, A Past and A Future, is available
through Sam’s Dot Publishing and Smashwords.
Boo's Bad Day by Penny Lockwood is a fun read - I almost wished I had a young child! Boo is a kitten who is curious about the world outside, but once he sneaks out he discovers it isn't what he was expecting. . . .
The story is based on a similar event with one of Ms. Lockwood's own cats and, fortunately, both stories have a happy ending.
Boo learns a few lessons during his adventure which children will be able to easily grasp. The cute illustrations convey the story without being scary and the lessons are learned without being preachy. Another thing that I like is that it is short. When my son was at this age, it was difficult to find an enjoyable children's book that was short enough to read at bedtime or when he needed to be entertained "just long enough."
Come back tomorrow when I have a visit with Ms. Lockwood about her book and blog tour. She is collecting names from the comments for a drawing - so be sure to comment for a chance to win an autographed copy of
Boo's Bad Day!
For more information, as well as talking points for the book, visit Penny's website:
http://pennylockwoodehrenkranz.yolasite.com/boos-bad-day.php
MIDDLE-EARTH
NETWORK LAUNCHES NEW PUBLISHING HOUSE
Middle-earth
Network is proud to announce the launch of its new publishing arm,
Oloris Publishing. This independent publishing house is dedicated to
publishing exceptional works of fiction and non-fiction that will
deeply engage readers across a variety of genres.
Oloris
Publishing is a dynamic venture that seeks to expand the vision of
traditional publishing by welcoming and showcasing vibrant, new
voices and embracing various media for their expression. We believe
that the publishing process should be a true collaboration, in which
our authors and illustrators are very involved so that their own
voices truly shine. Our editors are also committed to ensuring that
the highest editorial standards are consistently being met. All of us
at Oloris Publishing are honoured to work with our authors and we
have a deep love and respect for all the titles that we are
privileged to release.
Our vision at
Oloris Publishing is in line with that of Middle-earth Network to
inspire the world we live in by sharing the world we have in common.
Our intention is for Oloris Publishing to become synonymous with
exceptional publications and sparkling new voices. We hope to
constantly earn the trust and respect of our authors and
illustrators, and our readers, in order to become a well-recognized
source of inspiring, fresh, and engaging literature.
Mark Ostley,
Director of Operations for Middle-earth Network, on Oloris
Publishing: “The debut of Oloris Publishing is the tangible result
of our commitment to produce new and original content for a community
of worldwide individuals who have long been kept from discovering a
wealth of stories that really matter. Too often in the past, the
publishing world has been lead by an outdated and obsolete business
model where the reader is fed content based on marketing statistics.
It’s a model that is predatory to authors and often provides
mediocre content for readers and fans.
We
are both excited and honored to announce the creation of Oloris
Publishing, spearheaded by Silver Leaves Editor, Lara Sookoo, as the
official Middle-earth Network publishing label. Oloris will further
enrich our partnership with Grail Quest Books, and allow greater
resources and collaborations that will benefit fans and readers
everywhere.”
Oloris
Publishing’s inaugural title is
I had the pleasure of meeting Kathryn Tracy when she was having a book signing in the Teen Zone of the Gadsden Public Library. She was delightfully enthusiastic, so I asked her to be a guest on my blog... and here we are! Be sure to follow the links to her sites so you can get to know her even better. And when you buy a copy of her book, know that it is going to a good cause: her college education!
Your book is written
for young adults and you’re a young author. Do you feel your age gave you
special insight in writing for that age group?
Of course, my age gave me insight. I write
what I know. My book may be fiction but the feelings and perspectives are all
me and, since my characters are teenagers, I know how they think. Of course, all
authors were teenagers at some point but, since I am a recent teenager, I think
it made it easier for me to write about them.
How long have you been writing? Do you have any other works
published, like magazine articles?
I have been writing for as long as I can
remember. I won a few writing awards in elementary school where I realized I
was good at it. I have always had a vivid imagination and loved to read, so
writing came naturally to me. As for magazine articles, my high school writing
club once made a magazine but I don’t think that counts. I do not have any
other work published, but I am working on the sequel to “The Beautiful Side of
Truth” at the moment.
Tell us a little about
your book - but no spoilers!
I
Today we have the privilege of having Penny Ehrenkranz as our guest. Penny has a couple of books that have just been released, so I've asked her to tell us about them:
Hi Julie, thank you for hosting me today. I appreciate the support! I want to let your readers know that I’m
running a contest during my blog tour.
I’ll be collecting names of everyone who comments (so be sure to leave
contact information). At the end of the
tour, all the names will go in the hat, and I will choose two winners. One person will receive a copy of Lady-in-Waiting
and the other a copy of Mirror, Mirror.
Mirror, Mirror is set in 1421 and Lady In Waiting is set in
an early time period as well. Did you have to do a lot of research for the two
stories?
I didn’t have to do as much as I would have if these were
longer stories. Lady-in-Waiting is
around 10,000 words, and Mirror, Mirror is around 7,000. I did research about food, clothing, home
construction and tried to make the stories ring true. I used the Internet as well as a couple of my
own reference books about the middle ages and the Renaissance period.
What can you tell us about the books without spoiling the
plot?
5 Comments on A Visit With Penny Ehrenkranz, last added: 12/11/2011
A (Quick) Visit with Tommy Emmanuel
by Julie S. Dobbins
Tommy Emmanuel has traveled all over world playing 300 concerts a year. His performances, which are full of humor as well as music, are something to be experienced. His list of awards and other accomplishments are too numerous to list here.
Craig and Tommy met in Nashville in 1996. Craig just happened to be in Gruhn Guitars when he noticed a skinny, floppy-haired guy with an Aussie accent. Craig, being the cool guy that he is, said, “Hey! You’re Tommy Emmanuel!” To which Tommy responded, “Hey! You’re Craig Dobbins!” They quickly grabbed the nearest guitars and jammed for about an hour. Their friendship has lasted ever since.
Tommy was kind enough to answer a few questions for me. Since he was on the road (when isn't he?), his answers are brief but say a lot.
Are you still a vegetarian? (Is it difficult to maintain a particular diet while on the road?)
No, I was a vegetarian for ten years and one night, I had a meal in a pub in England and decided to try roast lamb. I was so charged with energy after the meal, I decided to go back to eating meat of all kinds and whatever else I wanted. I still have the occasional veggie meal but play best on steak or pasta. On the road, I don't have large meals - I don't need them. I eat as much as I need and try to keep a balanced diet.
What would you be doing if you weren't a musician?
Pushing up daisies.
With so much traveling, how do you keep your faith alive?
Whether I travel or not, my faith remains the same.
Where do you think you would be if you hadn't met Jesus?
Probably in a confused and lost place. I have a consistent trust that I'm doing what He wants me to do.
Which was more exciting - receiving a CGP or receiving the Member of the Order of Australia?
Kim Townsel currently lives in Sweet Home Alabama.
Her fiction and poetry appear in Quality Fiction,
Glossolalia, Salome, Hot Valley Writers, The Chick Lit Review, Liquid Imagination, and All Things Girl. She is a
2009 Oscars/Nicholl Semi-finalist and a
2008 Oscars/Nicholl Quarterfinalist. She recently interviewed the fabulous writing team of LEGALLY BLONDE, 10 THINGS I HATE ABOUT YOU, and THE HOUSE BUNNY.
Her interviews appear on
MovieBytes,
DoneDeal,
Yankee Pot Roast, and
Script magazine.
The Wettest Spring is a departure from your previous non-fiction books. What made you decide to write fiction?
I actually wrote The Wettest Spring back in the 80s when my sons were young. I was on leave from my teaching job to be a stay-at-home mom and decided
Does it really take an entire book to explain how to write a book proposal? Nearly 280 pages later, I have to say, "YES". Not only is How To Write A Book Proposal by Michael Larsen an exceptional tool, it is also enjoyable to read. I have read a few books and articles about the business of writing, and some of them make great sleeping aids. This book contains a wealth of relevant information with plenty of examples so you have no doubt as to the author’s meaning.
The author is literary agent Michael Larsen of the Michael Larsen/Elizabeth Pomada Literary Agency. What started as an article grew into a book which is now in its fourth edition. It has definitely been field tested. Larsen has listened to his readers and revised it accordingly. It also reflects changes in the publishing business. You can find more information as well as updates for the book at the
Larsen-Pomada website.
Highly recommended. You don't get information this good without an actual visit with an agent.
I was not paid for this review and received no benefit other than a review copy of the book through the Booksneeze program. My opinions expressed in this review are given honestly and freely. ~Julie
Fabulous After 50
by Shirley Mitchell with Jane Rubietta
Whatever you need to know about being 50-ish, Female, and Fabulous is in this book. A great resource to keep you optimistic and focused as you reach (and pass) the milestone of turning 50. Mitchell and Rubietta are obviously well read and quote from a wide variety of materials to give the most up to date information, as well as, inspiration. The book was first printed in 2000, but was in its third printing by 2004 - a great testimony to its relevance.
In less than 200 pages topics from health, diet and exercise to fashion, hair and skin care, to volunteerism are covered. Just about every aspect of life is discussed. Each of the eleven chapters end with “Questions for Immediate Application”, a list of “Strategies”, and an “Aging Successfully Attitude.” There is plenty of (good) attitude throughout the book, softened by a love for the Lord and spiced with humor. A very honest book and well worth the read.
By the way, I met Shirley Mitchell in April 2011 and I can say that, without a doubt, she follows her own advice. She was very delightful and looked... fabulous! Be sure to visit her website:
Fabulous After 50
Disclaimer: This book was reviewed without the knowledge of the authors and therefore no payment was made to me. Ms. Mitchell and I met at an author event and swapped books as one writer to another. The possibility of a review was not even mentioned.
What is it like to be a traveling musician? What if the musician is a Christian? Are his challenges any different? The Lights of Marfa by Doyle Dykes gives a bit of insight about what it’s like to be a traveling Christian musician. However, the emphasis is not on Doyle. He is just the instrument through which these stories are told. The book is full of experiences that he has had that can only be explained, as he puts it, as “a God thing.”
Doyle is a humble, but confident man. As he shares the different stories, he is careful to give credit where it is due. In spite of the fact that he as met many renowned guitarists who have influenced his own playing, he has always acknowledged that one man in particular changed the way he plays more than anyone else - Barry the Sailor. Chapter 3 tells how they met, lost contact, and were reunited thirty years later in a very remarkable way.
Other chapters tell about how he shared the stage with Elvis, Chet Atkins, or Duane Eddy. Doyle has played all over the world and shared the love of the Lord as he was able - including in The Cavern Club where The Beatles got their start. The Lights of Marfa is written as though Doyle were talking to you: with plain English and nothing fancy so that the story is emphasized. The Truth and the Lord shine through in this book.
Oh! I almost forgot! There is a DVD included with the book. It has an interview with Doyle, music video, and a behind-the-scenes taping of the song, The Lights of Marfa. Be sure to check out Doyle’s website for more cool stuff:
What Were You Thinking by Howard Wiggins of Hearthstone Interior Design is a fun, informative read. Wiggins lays out the information you need in a soothing “you can do this” kind of way. His writing style is conversational and pleasant. He gives you the tools you need to do the project yourself and he also gives you the tools for hiring a decorator if you decide you need professional help.
One piece of advice that he gives in the book is to decorate one room at at time. Once finished, move on to the next room. I needed to start small, so I decided I would redo my bathroom. Since a picture is worth a thousand words, I have included a “before” and “after” shot of the project.
Here is the sad but true picture of a less-than-inspiring room to start the day:
And after following Wiggins’s advice:
Okay, so maybe that isn’t my bathroom - but it could be! It is, however, a bathroom that was decorated by Hearthstone Interior Design.
I highly recommend this book. Even if you don’t want to redecorate your home, the information contained within its pages will give you the guidance you need to turn a room you like into a room you love.
Reconciliation. Love. Forgiveness. Each of these threads are woven through every person’s life and each person has a unique way of dealing with them. Spring Rain opens a window on how gritty issues can play out in real life. Ironically, it is an easy read as well. I read the book because the Inspiration Book Club at the Gadsden Public Library was going to be reading it in a couple of months. My friend Dee Roper, who leads the group, was having difficulty finding discussion questions. She asked me to read it and write a few, so I've included them below. I hope you find the questions useful - and I hope you enjoy the book as much as I did. I couldn’t put it down!
Highly recommended. Spring Rain is Book 1 in the Seaside Seasons series (say that three times fast!)
Obligatory notice that reviewers are obliged to post: I was not paid by anyone to do this review and, in fact, as of this writing neither the author nor her publisher are aware that I have done so.
Discussion Questions for Spring Rain
1. Julia felt God tap her on the shoulder and say, “Help her.” Have you ever had a similar experience?
2.
0 Comments on Spring Rain by Gayle Roper as of 1/1/1900
A Grief Observed is a very raw and honest chronicle of what Lewis experienced after he lost his wife, Joy Davidman Lewis. He asks questions that many ask whether they are Christian or grieving or neither. Where is God? What kind of God is he really? The book was originally published in 1961 under the pseudonym N. W. Clerk because he did not want to be associated with it, but was later persuaded by his friends to use his real name.
Lewis wrote as a way to keep from falling apart completely. Finding some empty notebooks at home, he jotted down his thoughts and ponderings. The book is therefore broken into four chapters, one for each notebook. When he started the fourth notebook, Lewis wrote, “This is the fourth - and the last - empty MS book I can find in the house.... I resolve to let this limit my jottings. I will not start buying books for the purpose.” Each chapter is written in a series of short paragraphs. It can be read straight through or a paragraph at a time - whichever way allows for the reader to best consider what Lewis is expressing.
By the end of the book, Lewis has not lost his faith but has found it strengthened and expanded. God is not cruel, but indeed loving. He doesn’t abandon us but sometimes we have to kick and scream and exhaust ourselves before we let Him get close to us.
The introduction by Madeleine L’Engle doesn’t add anything to the book. Mostly she talked about how different was her own experience when her husband died to that of Lewis’s when he lost his wife. A Grief Observed didn’t do much for her although she did find some points in the book on which to comment.
A Grief Observed is an excellent book for pondering the deeper questions yet doing so in an accessible way. There are no pretensions, just honesty. Highly recommended.
How would you respond to the comment “atheism is a liberator”?
Does Christianity really hold up to scrutiny?
Beyond Opinion is a book of apologetics that begins with six different essays addressing current challenges to Christianity: Postmodernism, Atheism, Youth, Islam, Eastern Religions, and Science. Each essay is written by a person who is knowledgeable on the subject because of their own experience. Challenges from Youth is written by a young person; Challenges from Islam is written by a former Muslim.
The book continues by Addressing the Questions Behind the Questions. It examines the possible reasons for a person’s doubts regarding Christianity and how to respond. This section includes Evil and Suffering as well as Cross Cultural Challenges, to name only two.
The next section provides further edification for the Christian with essays covering the Trinity, Spiritual Transformation, and Hearts on Pilgrimage. The last two essays in the book cover Living the Answers and Apologetics for Today.
The tone of the book is one of understanding and sympathizing with a person who has questions. It presents the arguments without being argumentative. Definitely not a book to be read lightly as though it were “6 Easy Steps for Defending the Faith”. However, it is a good book that takes a realistic view of Christianity as it is perceived today and equips the reader with a better understanding of his surroundings and how to relate to those with questions.
Disclosure of Material Connection: I received this book free from the publisher through the BookSneeze.com <http://BookSneeze.com> book review bloggers program. I was not required to write a
The Legend of the Black Lake
Written by Tania Maria Rodrigues-Peters
Illustrations by Felipe Campos
Translated from Brazilian Portuguese to English by Paula Vaz-Carreiro
Katharina is a beautiful and kind young woman who lives “approximately a very, very long time ago” in Austria. Every day she walks by the crystalline and magical lake near her home and tells it all about her dreams and fears. One day at the lake, Katharina meets a young man named Paul. Paul is as black as night while Katharina is very, very white. What will happen when her parents meet Paul? Why does the lake turn black?
The Legend of the Black Lake exposes the pain that prejudice causes. In a direct but gentle manner, it shows what happens when someone is rejected simply for the color of their skin.
Tania’s writing style is enthusiastic and playful. The story is told through an old man talking to a young child, so it is childlike in nature.
Although the artwork is in black and white, a blend of techniques and textures are used which accentuate the playfulness of Tania’s storytelling. The cover art uses warm and inviting red, brown, and green water colors.
Author, illustrator, and translator biographies are included in the back of the book as well as information about the real Black Lake. Since Tania is an accomplished cook, there is a recipe for the authentic Austrian dish that is mentioned in the story: Kasknopfle.
An enjoyable read that gives the opportunity to discuss with children about people who are different from them.
(The reviewer received no payment from anyone for this review.)
Melissa and the Green Blanket Written and Told by Julie S. Dobbins
Melissa has a green blanket that is soft with satin edges. She doesn’t remember a time when she didn’t have this green blanket, and that blanket is special because she can hide underneath it and become invisible. But one day, green blanket is missing, and poor Melissa looks all over for it. With the help of Mom, Melissa is reunited with her green blanket and rejoices.
Before I get into my review, I want to share why I requested this audio book and how it personally touched me. Our youngest daughter, Sarah, is six. She, too, has a green blanket with satin edges that was given to me before she was born. She also likes to hide underneath her green blanket–though it doesn’t cover up as much of her body as it used to–and disappear. Green blanket got tucked into her bag today to make the short trek to school, so that Sarah can have him (yes, it’s a boy) for rest time. And every night, “Greenie” goes up to bed with Sarah; she folds the special corner of her blanket into a certain way–I still haven’t learned how to fold it right–and she snuggles with him. I couldn’t help but think of Sarah as I read this book, and I can’t wait to share it with her.
Okay, weepy mommy moments aside, Melissa and the Green Blanket is an adorable audio book written and told by Julie S. Dobbins. It is a contemporary retelling of the Biblical story of the woman with ten silver coins who has lost one and searches high and low for it until she finds it, which comes from Luke 15:8-10. Though the Bibilical significance might be lost on some children, there is no escaping that this is a truly wonderful story, especially for bedtime. The music, provided by Julie’s husband Craig, is soft and calming. There are two additional tracks of Craig’s music included on the CD that will help lull your child to sleep after you’re done reading.
Also included is a 24-page picture book that is illustrated by David Moon. Again, my mind wandered back to Sarah as I followed along with the book and the audio. Just like Sarah, Melissa has a cat that is seen in many of the illustrations. Just the other day Sarah wrapped the cat up in “Greenie”.
Your young child will adore Melissa and the Green Blanket. So will you!
Available at http://www.craigdobbins.com/Melissa.html, Amazon, CDBaby, iTunes, and CCNow.
Rating: 5 smilies!
0 Comments on Melissa and the Green Blanket Review as of 1/1/1900
This is actually the review of a website for the book. The book is about the history of the library - which sounds rather boring, just to be honest. However, libraries have more going on than people realize - in the case of this one there have been celebrities, ghosts, and civil rights demonstrations.
The website has some interesting features. On the homepage there is a link to Google books so that you can view the first 30 pages or so. There is also a blog that is attempting to collect the library's current history, particularly it's media content (Youtube, Vimeo, and Ustream). My personal favorite is the Ustream video because it contains a video of a reading by Peter S. Beagle. Two hours of pure delight!
Check it all out at:
www.gadsdenlibrary.weebly.com
I'm very excited about the new website that I just finished for MELISSA AND THE GREEN BLANKET. I will continue to add information and reviews as they happen, but for right now I'm very pleased with the end result. Take a look and let me know what you think about it. Thanks!
A Visit with Stephen Bennett
by Julie S. Dobbins
Stephen Bennett is a guitarist who can play equally well on instruments as diverse as a 1930 National Steel, a standard 6-string, and a harp guitar. He has traveled the United States, Canada, Europe, Australia, and Japan winning the hearts of listeners everywhere he goes. Stephen is the founder of The Harp Guitar Gathering that converges on Williamsburg, Virginia each October. The Harp Guitar Gathering attracts players, scholars, and luthiers from all over the world. However, my main reason for interviewing Stephen had little to do with his accomplishments. Although I enjoy his playing, I especially like his sense of humor!
When did you decide to become a professional musician (or did it just sneak up on you)?
My career as a professional boxer wasn't going so well and since I did a little guitar playing on the side, I figured heck, why not give it a try?
Seriously, back in 1981, I was out shopping for a guitar one Saturday and was invited to teach at two of the music stores I stopped at. I took that as a sign of some sort and through a combination of teaching lots of lessons and playing in various musical settings in Southeastern Virginia, one day it dawned on me that I was in fact a professional musician. Everything after that has just been variations on the theme.
Although you went through a physically difficult time in 2008, you seem to have been in a very creative time as well. What has been your inspiration?
Although I did in fact go through a rough patch last year - which by the way, turned out very, very well once I got my kidney transplant - yes, I did manage to accomplish some musical tasks. Early on, I got into the studio and recorded some new harp guitar tunes - most of a CD actually - because I wanted to get them in the bank, so to speak, before my operations began. (My kidneys were removed in March, I was on dialysis for a couple of months and then had the transplant in May.) It’s a good thing I did so, because at this point I have largely forgotten the tunes and will have to relearn them at some point.
Additionally, I worked out transcriptions of many of my tunes, a slow and laborious task, but one which needs to be done. I will be offering three new compilations of transcriptions in January, if not earlier. Two of these are for harp guitar and one for six string guitar.
Also, I spent a good deal of time working on an orchestral arrangement of “Powhatan Suite.” This was released on my music from Tsenacommacah CD in 2003 and featured music inspired by reading about the early interactions between the native Virginians (the Powhatans) and the English settlers who showed up here in 1607. The conductor of the Virginia Symphony has expressed interest in the work and who knows - maybe something will come of it. If I don’t wind up with a live orchestra performing it, I will record it digitally with a software library of samples from the Vienna Philharmonic. They use this for movie scores, so it’s quite goo
Film scores are definitely a niche. However, if you enjoy movie music then please check out
Bennett's Film and Music Reviews. Bennett does an excellent job of explaining what is on the CD in addition to expressing his opinion of it. He gives background information on the movie and/or the composer, often placing the score in context of the composer's career. An enjoyable and informative read!
(Outland is just one of the many scores Bennett has reviewed, giving it a 4 out of 5 rating.)
By:
Julie S. Dobbins,
on 7/15/2010
Blog:
Julie Dobbins
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Tolkien-based journal, “Silver Leaves” Issue 3 is now available. The theme is Tolkien and other high fantasy artwork. We are very excited about getting this beautiful publication into folks’ hands. With contributors including Ted Nasmith, Jef Murray, Virginia Lee, Brian Sibley, Tom Shippey, Tim Kirk , Colleen Doran, David Wyatt, John Dickenson, along with many others, it could be considered a collectible. Ordering information is at www.whitetreefund.org.
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Hi Julie, thanks for hosting me on this last day of Boo's Bad Day blog tour. You asked questions no one else asked and the perfect ones for the last day!
Thanks, Penny! It's always a pleasure to have you here. The tour looks like it has been a real treat! :)
Great interview ladies! Julie, you did ask some wonderful questions. I really enjoyed the interview. Penny, best wishes with the sales of all of your books. I've enjoyed hosting both of you ladies on my blog in the past and I hope to host you both again sometime in the future.
Congratulations to Susan York Meyers! She's the winner of an autographed copy of Boo's Bad Day.