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Each Friday I post a review of a book for children or women, focusing on books from independent publishers.
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Written by Rena Jones
Illustrated by Stephen MacQuignon
4RV Publishing, 2010
Ages 4-8
Like any storybook character made from food, the marshmallow man is a sweet guy, but is popular for the wrong reasons. Gulp! Children will love the familiar, repetitive rhyme used by the marshmallow man as he tries to escape from hungry forest friends. Will he ever reach safety?
This book gives a creative twist to the gingerbread man story. I laughed out loud at the clever ending. Beautifully colored, playful illustrations of woodland animals are the icing on the cake.
Anyone who has roasted marshmallows around a campfire will warm up to this story. In fact, reading the book around a campfire would be fun! I highly recommend the book to preschool teachers as a story children would enjoy acting out. J
The Marshmallow Man is available from 4RV Publishing, Amazon and Barnes & Noble online.
Today I’m thrilled to introduce you to a very special guest, Ginger Nielson. She is the talented illustrator of my children’s books from 4RV Publishing. Ginger has illustrated MANY other children’s books and continues to lend her artistic talents to bringing stories to life for children. Welcome Ginger!
BETH: You often say there’s a magic wand on your desk and a dragon in your basement. Plus, your office assistant is a beagle. It sounds like your studio is a place of fun and imagination. Will you tell us more about that?
GINGER: I love that I have a dragon in my basement. It is actually the huge head of a dragon I created for a children’s summer theater. Each summer the community hosts a theater camp for children and I am lucky enough to be tapped for set design and painting. “SCUMME” the dragon had to be made of Paper mache and was articulated so that the head portion could sway back and forth on the set.
Henry, our rescued beagle is a constant companion and seems to love the rug near my desk. He will stay there most of the day unless we are out walking or he has found an empty cushion on the couch.
My studio is a wonderful room in the ground level of our home. There are big windows, stacks and stacks of DVDs with graphics, numerous bulletin boards, a drawing table, paint, pens, pencils, my computer and 7 bookshelves filled with books, sketches, assorted small stuffed animals, and reference materials. My desk faces the east window so that I can watch the seasons change, see the leaves take flight and watch the snow fall.
BETH: Will you share your initial creative process a little bit? More specifically, when you do a first read-through of a manuscript, do you immediately form pictures in your head of how characters and scenes should look, or does it develop more gradually?
GINGER: I read through a manuscript many times. Sometimes I will take notes as I read, sometimes I will even make a small sketch right in the margin, but the real sketching does not begin until I have formed pictures in my mind.
In some cases the pictures form so quickly and vividly in my mind that I have to get the sketches on paper as I read. Next I print several copies of the manuscript and make notes where I think the page breaks should be to get the best marriage of text and illustration. An author’s words are very important to me and I will always want the story and illustrations to balance and compliment one another.
Next, I will create a story board and either sketch in a thumbnail or write in a short description of what I want to do with that illustration. Once that is done I spend a lot of time on character studies for each character in the story. When I am happy with those I will start sketching out the ideas I have for each page.
BETH: Oh, I love the idea of you making sketches right in the margin of the manuscript. What fun! For a deeper look into how Ginger works, visit this page on her website.
How did being a first grade teacher benefit you in your career as an illustrator? How does your education background help with school visits?
GINGER: My college degree was a double major in Education and Fine Art. I am certified to teach K-12 Art and K-4 elementary school. I began my teaching career as a first grade teacher and loved being with children who were embarking on so many new things. Reading, math, science and art were like gifts to them. They soak up so much in just one year. I continued to teach Christian Education classes even after I left teaching to become a travel agent. Traveling to other countries has also helped i
I’m pleased to have Cheryl Malandrinos here today to discuss her writing and her first children’s book, Little Shepherd, from Guardian Angel Publishing.
Let’s talk about the book, which is a retelling of Luke 2:8-16, on the night baby Jesus was born. I loved how you put a new twist on the story by showing it through the eyes of a shepherd boy. How did you come up with that angle?
CHERYL: Thanks Beth. It’s great to be here today. The story behind Little Shepherd is a long one, but I’ll try to condense it.
I sing Christmas carols to my girls all year round. When Katherine was a toddler, every time I sang, The Little Drummer Boy, I kept getting this idea of a shepherd who visits the newborn King on the night of His birth.
When God first planted that idea on my heart, it was not a children’s story. It was the story of an adult Obed trying to find the apostles, who are in hiding after the resurrection of Jesus. Obed wants to know if Jesus was the Savior he met as a boy.
After discussing this idea with my pastor, he asked if it was a children’s story, which is when the wheels started turning. Why couldn’t it be about the night Obed meets Jesus?
BETH: You can read my review of Little Shepherd here on Beth’s Book Basket. I think this book would make a perfect Christmas present for kids or grandkids. How do you think families or churches could use the book in their Christmas festivities?
CHERYL: This is a great question. I teach Sunday school, so I plan to use it during Advent to share this portion of scripture with my students in a new way.
Several reviews of Little Shepherd have mentioned that it is nice to see this historical event told through the eyes of a child. Obed is only five years old, yet he has been entrusted with his first flock of sheep. While in awe of witnessing the angels, he’s anxious about leaving his sheep unattended to visit the newborn King. Even though his father encourages him to go, it requires Obed to step out in faith, something Christians do all the time.
It might seem bold to say, but I would really love it if on Christmas Eve families gathered to read Little Shepherd as a reminder of the reason for the season. We live in a world where the true meaning of this great event is hidden by the stress of holiday preparations.
Libraries, schools, and churches can request bulk quantities at a substantial discount from Guardian Angel Publishing.
BETH: Are you doing any special events around Christmastime to promote the book?
CHERYL: I’ve been so tied up with my virtual book tour that I haven’t had much time to plan events. I am hoping to hold a book signing at a local bookstore. I will be on hand to sign copies of Little Shepherd at Living Gate Community Church’s annual Country Christmas Bazaar and Tag Sale that takes place on Saturday, November 27th on the church grounds at 151 Taylor Street, Granby, MA.
BETH: Local events are always fun for us authors to get out and meet people and talk about our books. You are a tour coordinator with Pump Up Your Book. How did your experience with blog tours help with marketing your own book?
CHERYL: Being a virtual book to
In honor of IN MY BATH being nominated for the Cybil Awards, I held a giveaway for folks who purchased my books or wrote reviews on Amazon or Barnes & Noble. Many thanks to all who participated. The entries were put on sticky notes, folded and places in a hat. Now for the drawing. Drumroll please…
The winner is… Denise Stanley. 
Congratulations Denise, you have won the Writer’s Gift Bag! ***Applause for Denise***
Written & illustrated by Kit Grady
Guardian Angel Publishing, 2010
Jiggsy’s life as a junkyard dog isn’t easy. With only one special possession to call his own, he endures chilly nights, scarce food and big scary dogs. When Jiggsy finds a necklace, everything changes. But is it for the better?
A Necklace for Jiggsy stirs the reader’s emotions while telling an entertaining story that gently teaches the “golden rule.” Throughout the book, expressive illustrations show Jiggsy’s emotions, ranging from fear to surprise to pride. Children will cheer for him when things go well and empathize with his dilemma.
With one glance at the front cover, I fell in love with Jiggsy’s adorable mug. I recommend the book for boys and girls in preschool and up. Jiggsy would make a great addition to the library of any home, public school, Christian school or church.
A Necklace for Jiggsy is available at the Guardian Angel Publishing website, Amazon, and Barnes & Noble online.
I’m so excited! My children’s book, In My Bath, was nominated for the “fiction picture book” category of the Cybil Awards. What happens now is that judges read the hundreds of nominated books and narrow it down to a winner and a few finalists.
In honor of In My Bath’s nomination, I’m holding a contest on Beth’s Book Basket. There are two ways to enter:
1) Purchase a copy of either of my books, In My Bath or A Wish and a Prayer and send me proof of purchase through the CONTACT page of my website. Just copy and paste the online receipt you get from wherever you buy the book. Check the BOOKS page for links to places to purchase the books. If you purchase the book in a brick-and-mortar store, let me know via the contact page.
OR
2) If you already have one or both of the books, write a review and post it on Amazon or Barnes & Noble online. It can be short, just a paragraph will do, and I would be so grateful. You can find links to Amazon and B&N on the BOOKS page.
You get one entry for each purchase and one entry for each book review you post.
The PRIZE is a WRITER’S GIFT BAG of goodies that I’ll mail to the winner. The contest is open to anyone in the U.S. or Canada. You have until midnight eastern time on Friday, Nov. 5th to enter. Winner announced on Nov. 6th.
Please welcome my fellow Indie-Debut 2010 author, Donna McDine, to Beth’s Book Basket today. We’re discussing her first children’s book, The Golden Pathway, just released from Guardian Angel Publishing.
Donna, I was struck by the depth of emotion in The Golden Pathway, both in the words and illustrations. What was your inspiration for the story?
DONNA: I’ve always been interested in American History and the perseverance of the slaves to survive and their courage to reach freedom. Even after all these years it teaches children and adults there is a way out (hopefully) in dire circumstances.
BETH: Did you know a lot about the Underground Railroad already or did you need to research it a lot before writing the book?
DONNA: I knew the basics of the Underground Railroad and knew I had to conduct extensive research to write the most authentic story possible. I spent time “picking the brains” of local historians and local librarians before I felt I was educated enough to do The Golden Pathway justice.
BETH: So you can add “researcher” to the MANY hats you wear, Donna. How do you balance all of your roles: mom, wife, author, owner of Dynamic Media release Services and now Publicist Intern with the National Writing for Children Center? Whew, I am tired just listing it all.
DONNA: I honestly have to say my time working for multiple bosses at a time in various Fortune 500 companies groomed me for my writing career. I am a firm believer that all our experiences (both personal and in business) happen for a reason and prepare us for the path the good Lord has set for us. Without my administrative, web design, and marketing backgrounds I wouldn’t know where to begin in all the other aspects beyond the writing. So yes, the many years of working in Fortune 500 companies taught me balance.
BETH: I heartily agree that God uses our various life experiences to prepare us for future endeavors. And speaking of the future, you have two more books in the works at Guardian Angel Publishing. Congratulations on these recent acceptances! Would you share a brief description of each book?
DONNA: “The Hockey Agony” ~ Peer Pressure and honesty many times go hand-in-hand. What is Larry to do when his teammate asks him to cheat when he is given the responsibility to run the clock during the big hockey game? Outwardly, it may seem he will follow suit, but his conscious tells him otherwise at the moment of truth.
“Powder Monkey” ~ Forced into a life at sea by the Royal Navy Press Gangs, 12-year-old Tommy Kitt finds himself in a floating sea of misery. Life aboard the ship is like none other. Poor living conditions, beatings, and grueling hours are daily occurrences. Despite his runt like size, Tommy must summon the courage and physical ability to prevail in a situation in cannot escape.
BETH: As a NASCAR fan, I like to end with a fun, racing-related question. If you were a NASCAR driver, what sponsor would you want on your car and why?
DONNA: Terrific question! My goodness, at this point in my life and writing career I have to say Oprah Winfrey’s Book Club. How cool would that be!
BETH: That would be a fantastic sponsor for an author. Thanks for visiting my blog today, Donna. I’ve enjoyed talking with you and h
I’m pleased to have author Connie Arnold visiting Beth’s Book Basket today. She will be talking about her new children’s book from Guardian Angel Publishing entitled Animal Sound Mix-Up.
BETH: Connie, you have written three books of inspirational poetry for adults. How did writing those books help you with creating this children’s book?
CONNIE: The experience with rhythm and rhyme helped, since Animal Sound Mix-up is also a rhyming book. I have learned when and where I find the greatest inspiration and the creativity flows best. I’ve also discovered how important it is to know for whom you are writing and why you are writing what you write.
BETH: Talk a little bit about your process for writing Animal Sound Mix-Up. Did you choose the animals first or match up animal sound words that rhymed first or use some other method?
CONNIE: I thought about animal sounds and what animals would sound funny making those sounds. Also, the consideration of where those particular animals could be found and incorporating those locations into the verses and rhymes was an important part of it.
BETH: You did a great job choosing which animals and sounds to use. I noticed you mentioned your three grandsons in your book’s dedication. Did you read the manuscript to them at any time during writing and editing to get their input?
CONNIE: I didn’t get a chance to read Animal Sound Mix-up to my grandsons before it was published because they live about 1200 miles away, and we only see them a couple of times a year. I did recently return from visiting them when I gave them each their own copy and read it to them. They were excited that Nana wrote a book and it had their names in it. One of them asked, “You really wrote all these words?” The 6 year old, Luke, was able to read it, and 5 year old Noah almost can. Jesse, the 3 year old, wanted me to read it several times, giggled and said “no!” several times to the sounds, and enjoyed making the correct sounds for the animals.
BETH: What fun it must have been for your grandsons to read “Nana’s book.” I bet they loved the illustrations, too. Talk about your experience working with your illustrator, Kit Grady, and with Guardian Angel Publishing?
CONNIE: I’m extremely pleased with Kit’s wonderful illustrations. They really add character to the animals and bring them to life for the children. I’ve heard many comments about the great combination of words and pictures. I’m very thankful Guardian Angel Publishing accepted and published Animal Sound Mix-up. It has been a great experience in all ways. Lynda Burch is so efficient, works for the highest quality books for children and cares about the authors and illustrators.
BETH: It is always nice to hear authors are having good experiences with their publishers. I imagine this taste of success has made you want to write more. What projects are you working on at the moment?
CONNIE: I’m currently working on a couple of children’s book manuscripts, poems to post on my blogs (http://conniearnold.blogspot.com and http://childrensauthorconniearnold.blogspot.com), an inspirational poetry collection about the seasons, and another collection of poems w
Drumroll, please!
The winner of the signed paperback copy of The Bug that Plagued the Entire Third Grade, generously donated by author Lori Calabrese, is… Nikki.
Congratulations Nikki!
Today I’d like to welcome author Lori Calabrese to Beth’s Book Basket. Lori’s first children’s book, The Bug That Plagued the Entire Third Grade, was just released from Dragonfly Publishing. Let’s talk about your book, Lori.
BETH: The “bug” in your book has a double meaning. How did you come up with the story that combines the two kinds of bugs?
LORI: The Bug took a long time to evolve into what it did! The inspiration came to me when an awful stomach virus wormed its way into our house. There’s nothing worse than that dreaded stomach bug because once it hits one person in your house, it’s got everybody else’s number, too, so beware. Anyway, my son had it and when everyone asked how he was doing, I always replied, “He caught the bug.” I just knew something was there. I mean, really—why do we say we’ve caught a bug when we’re sick? I just loved the play on words of catching a cold and catching an insect, so I went from there. After researching bugs, I discovered The Hines Emerald Dragonfly, the only dragonfly listed on the entire endangered species list. When I saw its captivating green eyes, I knew this was the bug for my story and it all finally came together after a long year and a half!
For more about The Bug, read the review here on this blog.
BETH: Writing in rhyme can be difficult. How did you tackle the rhyme? Did you plan the story first, then work out the rhyme or vice versa? Or did it all come to you at once?
LORI: I love books in rhyme—always have, always will. They were my favorite when I was little and they’re still my favorite to read to my own children.
I originally started working out the rhyme, but it was awful. I didn’t know where I was going. Along the way, it hit me that so much goes into writing rhyme, from the words to meter, but the most important is the story. As soon as I had the story and knew where I wanted to go, I was fortunate that the rhyme came naturally.
BETH: Good for you for combining the story and rhyme so flawlessly. Perhaps teachers will use the book to teach poetry and rhyming. How else could teachers use your book in their classrooms?
LORI: There are so many ways teachers can use The Bug in their classrooms. Not only does it open up discussion about germs and what happens when one comes to school sick, it also introduces students to extinction and the only dragonfly listed on the endangered species list, the Hines Emerald Dragonfly. Teachers looking to incorporate The Bug with their lessons can find two free teaching guides for download at my website, www.loricalabrese.com
BETH: Providing teacher guides is a great idea, Lori. I bet many teachers will love using The Bug in their classes.
You are the “national children’s book examiner.” Will you explain to our readers what that means and what you do?
LORI: It’s not the
Written by Connie Arnold
Illustrated by Kit Grady
Guardian Angel Publishing, 2010
Reading Level: ages 4-8
Imagine if animals got confused and exchanged voices with each other. That’s just what happens in the picture book, Animal Sound Mix-Up. Silliness abounds as a mouse roars, a donkey barks, and monkeys moo. I liked the book’s easy-to-read, rhyming text explaining the muddled mumblings of the various critters. The charming illustrations complement the words, showing animals with happy expressive faces.
I recommend this book for children age 2 and up, although parents, grandparents and teachers will appreciate it, too. Animal Sound Mix-Up is just the right length to read during children’s church, but would work for Sunday school or a preschool class, too. Toward the end, the book provides a simple way to help children understand God’s perfect design.
Get ready for giggles and belly laughs as you enjoy the absurdity of animals uttering the wrong sounds. Don’t be surprised if kids ask to read this one again and again.
Get your copy from the publisher, Amazon or Barnes & Noble.
Now for a CONTEST…drumroll please… !
Since this is the first posting for the Animal Sound Mix-Up BLOG TOUR, here is the scoop on author Connie Arnold’s contest. Anyone who leaves a comment here on Beth’s Book Basket, or on any stop on the tour will be entered in two drawings. The prizes are great – a $10 Amazon gift card and an encyclopedia of animals.
PLUS, anyone who buys the book and sends a confirmation of purchase to Connie at conarnold at gmail dot com will be entered to win a set of animal ornaments. You get an extra entry for every post on Twitter, Facebook or your blog, too.
Written by Lori Calabrese
Illustrated by Chet Taylor
Format: Hardcover and Paperback from Dragonfly Publishing, Incorporated
Reading level: 2-8; 24 pages
When Matt finds an unfamiliar insect, he dreams of winning first prize in the Bug-A-Fair at school. But on the day of the event, he wakes up with sniffles. Between bugs in jars and Matt’s cold germ “bug,” the third grade is in for an exciting day.
The Bug that Plagued the Entire Third Grade was a fun read. I loved how the author incorporated the double meaning of the word “bug” to create a clever, amusing story. The colorful, cartoon-like illustrations fit the story well, showing characters’ emotions and adding to the humor.
I recommend this book for anyone who enjoys a funny story, told in rhyme. “The Bug” would work well for reading aloud to a class and would make an entertaining supplement for an elementary health, science or language arts curriculum.
Written by Cheryl Malandrinos
Illustrated by Eugene Ruble
Guardian Angel Publishing, 2010
While helping his father guard their sheep by night, five-year-old Obed is among the first to hear of the Savior’s birth. Angels send the shepherds to see the newborn baby, but Obed doesn’t want to go. Who will guard his sheep from wolves?
Little Shepherd is a delightful retelling of Luke 2:8-16 through the eyes of a young boy who is learning about responsibility and obedience. Through his father’s example and a night of miracles, Obed experiences the peace that comes from trusting God.
I loved how the author showed Obed’s sense of wonder and his growing faith toward the end of the story. I recommend this book for anyone four years old and up. It would make a perfect reading for children’s church during Advent or at home for the whole family on Christmas Eve.
Written by Donna McDine
Illustrated by K.C. Snider
Guardian Angel Publishing, 2010
Reading level: ages 8-12
The Golden Pathway is the story of a young boy’s daily struggle with the abuse and injustice of slavery on his own homestead. Day after day, David is horrified by his father’s treatment of their teenage slave, Jenkins, and longs to ease his suffering and help him find freedom. Is David brave enough to risk Pa’s wrath and help Jenkins escape?
Despite the heavy themes of bullying and suffering, David’s story is incredibly empowering. The illustrations show the characters’ raw emotions in a way that draws you in, pulls at your gut and touches your heart. After finishing The Golden Pathway, readers may be inspired to make a difference in the world by reaching out to help someone.
I highly recommend this book for parents to read with their children. The emotion and suspense build throughout the story and may naturally lead to parent-child discussions about topics such as fear, courage, abuse, alcoholism and freedom. The Golden Pathway would make a terrific addition to any American history curriculum or classroom library.
Order your copy from Guardian Angel Publishing, Books-a-Million or Amazon.
Caves, Cannons, and Crinolines
Written by Beverly Stowe McClure
Published by Twilight Times Books, 2010
Life is turned upside-down for 14-year-old Elizabeth Stamford when her hometown of Vicksburg, Mississippi is under siege during the Civil War. Forced to vacate her home and live in a cave with her family, Lizzie ends up learning firsthand about war: its horrors and unfairness. Through an unexpected alliance, Lizzie learns that what side you are on isn’t as important as what’s in your heart.
Ms. McClure did a lovely job bringing Lizzie to life. I enjoyed the young heroine’s spunk, impulsiveness and wry humor. Lizzie’s close friendship with her younger brother, Nathan, made for interesting scenes – tender one moment, typical sibling bickering the next, but with a fierce loyalty to one another.
I recommend Caves, Cannons, and Crinolines for young adult readers, especially those interested in history. The book would make a nice addition to the American history curriculum for teachers or homeschoolers.
Get your copy of Caves, Cannons and Crinolines from the author, or from Twilight Times Books, Amazon or Barnes & Noble online. To read an interview with Beverly Stowe McClure on this blog, click here.
Brigitta of the White Forest
Written by Danika Dinsmore
Cover design by Tod McCoy
Middle grade novel, 210 pages
Published by en theos press, 2010
In a world where it is sometimes hard to tell friend from foe, two sisters race against time to save their beloved White Forest and all the faeries the love. As they journey beyond the faerie realm, Brigitta and Himalette persevere through adversity and learn to match wits against giant caterpillars, rock dragons and munshmins.
Before I opened Brigitta of the White Forest, the gorgeous cover with an ethereal blue moon caught my eye, setting the tone for the story. As I read, the White Forest came to life in my imagination as a blend of The Shire and Rivendell, yet with a delightful, whimsical personality all its own. Dinsmore’s faerie world is amazingly detailed, steeped in history and traditions that bring depth to the tale.
I especially love the relationship between Brigitta and her little sister, Himalette. Their loyalty, bravery and even a few sisterly squabbles made for credible, endearing characters.
I recommend this book for middle graders and up. Girls will especially relate to Brigitta, but don’t count out the boys – there is plenty of suspense and adventure, too. Bring on The Ruins of Noe, book #2 in the White Forest series.
Beth’s caution for concerned parents: Characters and creatures receive minor injuries and one character dies. The book contains magical elements throughout the story, however, good and evil are clearly delineated.
Author Nancy Sharpe is visiting today to talk about her first picture book from 4RV Publishing, entitled If Wishes Were Fishes. Welcome to Beth’s Book Basket, Nancy!
BETH: I LOVE the humor in If Wishes Were Fishes. Where did you get the idea for the book?
NANCY: I was in a food court at the mall one day and noticed this young boy at the table finishing his lunch. His grandpa told him to “shake a leg” and I saw the look of confusion on the young face and could “see the wheels turning”, so to speak, as he was trying to figure out “what in the world….? “ I started thinking about how many phrases there are that mean something totally different than the literal meaning of the individual words and how confusing it can be for a young child. Then I started thinking how humorous these misunderstandings could be J.
BETH: What do you hope children and parents will get from reading If Wishes Were Fishes?
NANCY: I think it is an opportunity to laugh and bond, to create memories and learn how sometimes people mean what they say but they just don’t say what they mean…clearly.
BETH: Ginger Nielson illustrated your book. What is your favorite thing about Ginger’s work?
NANCY: I love Ginger’s work! She is so talented with capturing an idea and bringing it to life with her art. I heartily recommend you check out her site and her work by clicking on the link. She also illustrated another one of my new favorite children’s books; it’s called In My Bath check it out, y’all!
BETH: Aw, thanks Nancy for mentioning my book, In My Bath, that Ginger illustrated. I love her work, too. Speaking of work, what writing projects are you working on at the moment?
NANCY: Currently I am working on a young adult fantasy called The Destineers and the Legend of the Netherscape (there are two additional Destineers books planned as well) and a children’s book of fairy tales.
BETH: Sounds like you’re keeping busy!
As a race fan, I like to end interviews with a fun, racing-related question. If you were a NASCAR driver, what sponsor(s) would you want on your car and why?
NANCY: 4RV Publishing LLC, of course! They are an amazing and supportive publishing company to work with. This speaks volumes to the integrity of a company when they show that much support to all of their authors and illustrators. There is even a brick and mortar store dedicated to showcasing the work of the 4RV authors and illustrators called 4 Love of Books & Art .
Beth, thank you so much for this opportunity to be with you here today. It’s been a lot of fun!
GIVEAWAY: Readers, be sure to leave a comment to entered a drawing for a lovely prize pack. At the end of her blog tour, Nancy will give away a copy of her book, an “If Wishes Were Fishes” tote bag, a Wishing Fish necklace and other surprises.
BETH
Today YA author Beverly Stowe McClure is visiting with us to talk about her recent release from Twilight Times Books, entitled Caves, Cannons and Crinolines. Welcome Beverly!
BETH: You have written a number of books with interesting young ladies as main characters. When you are writing a novel, how do you get inside the character’s head to see things from her point of view?
BEVERLY: There are several different ways I place myself in the character’s head. I like to see how my protagonist views her world. This is one reason I enjoy writing in first person, although some of my books are in third person too. To get to know my characters, what they think, what they feel, and a little about them, I do profile sheets with the basics: Eye color, hair color, features, personality, what they like, what they dislike, hobbies, their family, stuff about them. It’s easy for me to forget the little details so I keep these sheets in a folder to refer to as the story progresses. I seldom know everything about each character, so I add to their profiles as they do something unexpected or new ideas pop up in my head.
One of my favorite ways to become acquainted with my characters is to interview them. It’s surprising what they will tell me about how they get along with their parents, siblings, friends. What they enjoy about school, their dreams and ambitions, also their secrets. These can be quite unexpected and not in my game plan. I love it when that happens. Sometimes the characters are very hush, hush, and won’t talk about themselves or certain parts of their lives. Their silence is revealing also.
Occasionally, I have my characters write in their journals and boy, they often tell all. Then I understand where my story needs to go because they’ve given me the roadmap to get there. Sometimes, it’s a dead end. Other times, it’s exactly right.
BETH: Okay, let’s talk specifically about Caves, Cannons and Crinolines. I loved the book’s protagonist, 14-year-old Lizzie. Where did you get the idea for her character
BEVERLY: No particular place really. She just came to me. I wanted to write the story from the viewpoint of a young girl to show how the war affected her life and the lives of her family. Lizzie introduced herself and told me how much she loved her brothers and her fears for them. She also wanted to be a part of defending Vicksburg and not just sitting home letting her brothers take all the risks.
BETH: The setting for the book is Vicksburg, MS. Have you ever been there? If not, what places did you visit to get a flavor for the Civil War before writing the book?
BEVERLY: Yes, we made a couple of visits to Vicksburg on our way to South Carolina to see our son and daughter-in-law. I love the town. It has so much history. We toured the battleground there, where monuments stand dedicated to the soldiers who fought and died there. We went to the museum, located in the old courthouse that was standing during the Civil War. We saw old clothing, furniture, photographs. I bought tons of books and journals and copies of old newspapers, all valuable sources in my research. They have a new courthouse now, so the old one is strictly for history. I talked to the curator of the museum, a native of the city, whose gr
Beth, thank you so much for having me yesterday. I’m here today to announce my winners. I put everyone’s name in a “hat” and my son Joe picked out the names.
Congrats to postcard winners – Susanne and Connie.
Congrats to the winner of an autographed copy of The Giving Meadow – Terry Lynn.
If the winners can send me (Steph) an email to sgcardin1 at yahoo dot com or botrina_buchanan at yahoo cot com with their snail mail, I’ll get the prizes in the mail ASAP.
Today I’d like to welcome author Stephanie Burkhart to Beth’s Book Basket. Read all the way to end because she’s having a giveaway for anyone who leaves a comment.
STEPH: I just want to thank Beth for having me today on my blog tour for my children’s book, “The Giving Meadow.”
Just a little about me: I was born in Manchester, NH but live in Castaic, California with my husband, Brent, and two sons, Andrew and Joseph. I have fond memories of Manchester, but have made California my home. I earned a BS in political science from California Baptist University in 1995.
I have been writing since I was 5, first making homemade comic books. Now, I work on creating short stories and novels. I spent 11 years in the US Army and over 7 years in Germany. Writing is a passion that still challenges me. The Giving Meadow is my first children’s book and my first book with 4RV Publishing.
BETH: Thanks for that overview of your very interesting and busy life, Steph. I’m wondering, how do you balance your two jobs, 911 dispatcher and author, with being a wife and a mom to two young boys?
STEPH: It’s a challenge. One of the ways I balance is that I do have down time at work and I usually write during my down time. It fulfills that craving to write. When I’m at home, I get on the computer in the early morning and then around 10:00ish (or depending on the schedule) I do errands and spend time with my children. We have movie nights when I have a scheduled day off. Wife is more challenging. My husband and I have to work opposite days off for child care and rarely get time off together. I usually stay up an hour or two when I get home and we’ll watch the 11 o’clock news.
BETH: I understand you have multiple romance novels published. Do you use your military and overseas background in those books? Give some examples.
STEPH: My first book was a “sweet” military romance called Destination: Berlin. It’s set in 1988. American Corporal Sharon Cates is going to Berlin to attend the Orientation Tour. On the way, the duty train derails in the middle of East Germany and she has to get to Berlin – on foot. Her only help comes from a Soviet Jr. Sgt, Dimitri Nagory. There’s maybe a kiss or two between Sharon and Dimitri in the story, that’s why it’s “sweet.” It’s probably the most personally inspired romance I wrote.
While in Germany, I cultivated a love of traveling and European history. In my latest novel, a paranormal romance, “The Hungarian,” is set in Hungary. I was deployed to Hungary in 1997 for 90 days and grew to love the country very much.
BETH: So, you’ve lived in multiple countries AND you write in multiple genres. Tell us a little about that.
STEPH: Believe it or not, I write a little bit of everything. I had Destination: Berlin published in 2001. I joined Writing.com and started to work on my short story skills. I entered the Writer’s Digest Writing Competition every year since 2005. I’ve been noticed for horror, romance, mainstream/literary, and thriller/suspense writing. Tackling a children’s story was something different, but it wasn’t hard to make the change. I also have an upcoming young adult book, “The First Flag of New Hampshire,” scheduled for release by 4RV Publishing next year.
BETH: “The Giving Meadow” is a sweet, comforting story that parents can read to their kids at bedtime. Where did you get the idea for the book?
I
If Wishes Were Fishes
Written by N.A. Sharpe
Illustrated by Ginger Nielson
Softcover from 4RV Publishing
Reading Level: ages 4-8
J.T. loves spending time at his grandparents’ house. But sometimes they speak in riddles he can’t understand. What’s a kid to do?
Mix-ups and comical confusion ensue as J.T. tries to follow grandma and grandpa’s instructions throughout the story. His antics will keep children giggling page after page as J.T. discovers the real meanings of common expressions. The good-natured relationship between J.T. and his grandparents is sweet. I highly recommend this clever, funny book for children ages 4 and up.
Get your copy of If Wishes Were Fishes from 4RV Publishing, Amazon, Barnes & Noble online , Books-a-Million or any bookstore.
The Giving Meadow
Written by Stephanie Burkhart
Illustrated by Stephen Macquignon
Softcover from 4RV Publishing
Reading Level: ages 3-7
Follow a caterpillar on his journey across a grassy, flower-filled field in this sweet story of sharing and friendship. Children will relate to the caterpillar’s simple feelings of hunger and thirst, sleepiness, and his excitement about growing bigger. The caterpillar’s insect and animal friends demonstrate positive character traits of mercy, compassion and caring.
The Giving Meadow is perfect for the innocent years of early childhood. Toddlers and preschoolers will love to snuggle up before nap or at bedtime to hear this soothing story read to them. The adorable, brightly-colored illustrations will charm readers of all ages.
Purchase your copy from 4RV Publishing, Amazon or Barnes & Noble online.
Just Breeze
Written by Beverly Stowe McClure
Softcover from 4RV Publishing
Middle grade/YA novel, 204 pages
Like most 8th grade girls, Breeze Brannigan loves to hang with friends, try new hairstyles and talk about boys. As the tallest student in her class, Breeze figures no boy will be interested in her, a skinny, red-headed giraffe with braces. When she meets the new guy at school, the polite, handsome Cam, things get interesting.
Author Beverly Stowe McClure has created in Breeze a character that is refreshingly innocent, yet displays a wicked sense of humor and ability to laugh at her own foibles. Is there a fairy tale ending for Breeze and Cam? I’m not telling. What I will say is that as a young girl, I would have LOVED this book. I highly recommend it for girls ages 10 and up.
Just Breeze is available from the publisher, Amazon and Barnes & Noble online.
Bubba and Giganto: Odds Against Us
Written by Lea Schizas
Cover design by Vivian Zabel
Softcover middle grade novel, 60 pages
On Bubba’s first day at a new high school he literally runs into David, a.k.a. Giganto. The two become best buds and team up for soccer try-outs. The soccer team “star” bullies Bubba and David throughout tryouts, then challenges them to an after-school scrimmage.
How does the scrimmage turn out? Let’s just say past secrets are revealed and relationships change. Bubba & Giganto is an insightful look at the potential dangers of bullying and the foolishness of keeping important secrets from your friends. As a mom of two teenage boys, I recommend this book for ages 12-15. Get your copy at 4RV Publishing or Amazon.
A New Job for Dilly
Written by Rena Jones
Illustrated by Lisa Oakman
Softcover from 4RV Publishing
Reading level: ages 4-8
The words” lovable” and “rat” don’t go together, unless you’re talking about Dilly. From the first page, this quirky little rodent captures your heart. Dilly loves dill pickles, but he runs into trouble trying to find ones he can eat. So Dilly searches the alphabet from A to Z to get a job to support his pickle habit. Will he find one?
I recommend this book for children ages 3 and up. Kids and adults will smile and giggle at Dilly’s antics as he tries out different jobs. Be prepared to read this cute book over and over.
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Written by Rena Jones
