Amy Shannon, Life’s Written Past

has the incredible ability to weave a story with the skill of Rumpelstiltskin weaving straw into gold. She can take a few words and turn them into an incredibly touching and sensitive must read story. She has an amazing talent and full of surprise. After reading several of her books, I can see that she does not take a ‘stale’ idea and attempt to revive it into something new which only makes the same old story retold but with a slightly different voice.

Shannon creates brand new refreshing stories. Having these books in the unique serial set-up tempts the reader to collect each one so that not a single issue is missed. Each book is so original, although tied into a series, if one story is left unread, I believe the reader will be lost for a little while.

I look forward to seeing her climb through the ranks. Keep an eye on her.

Click to Buy at Amazon.com

Life’s Written Past

http://media.merchantcircle.com/

http://www.mobilealabamaareahomes.com

So many places left unseen, untouched and unnoticed. So many things left undone. Will there be another chance? Will I see the beauty in the world? All the traveling I planned. I even have the perfect travel companion.

I am officially inducted into the Hospice Hall of Fame. I am a patient.It is a wonderful organization, and in only one week, they have taken care of several annoying needs of mine.

I will no longer be admitted to the hospital. Instead, I will go to a place called Pickering House. I believe, it is much like a hospital as they are able to care for me in a nurturing environment.

I truly do not understand all of its services, nor do I accept I am dying. I do not want to be treated as if I am dying either. This is another pill I must swallow. This one the biggest one so far.

I open my hand toward Heaven and ask for the sparrow of hope to softly land in my hand. Please bring back the peace and hope I so need.

https://www.createspace.com/4813385

I don’t actually remember how I first met Renee Robinson. I think it all started when some unmitigated ‘Ho wrote a cruel review about her writing, and I jumped to her defense. That sounds about like me. Anyone who could write cruelly about someone who does what Renee does with her life deserves a smack-down. Of course, I have never met her in person, but I have been corresponding with her for a while. Renee is a Terminal Cancer victim, who just received the dreaded “There is nothing else we can do” message, a message I never received myself, but feared nevertheless.

You see, Renee is the author of Captain Chemo: Out Cancer, Out! (Captain Chemo and Team Book 1). It is a poem, a poem designed to help children who are going through chemo to build courage and remain positive through the horrors of chemo. And believe me – chemo is horrendous. The pain, the vomiting, the weakness – it is all more than even adults can sometimes handle. Now, think about a small child going through the same thing – the horror of it all beyond their understanding. Renee’s book helps. Maybe not in any “this is going to make it all go away” sort of way – but it provides hope for the little ones.

Tracy Townsend with Healthsource 10 interviewed Renee on July 23. You can watch the video here:

http://bit.ly/1rMpLB7

Renee Robinson

Renee and her family have donated several of her books to Nationwide Children’s, The James and the Fairfield Medical Center.

This book is a perfect donation for the cancer centers in your area. Why not be a peach and purchase several? The children will thank you – and your heart will too.

How courageous is it, for someone like Renee who is Terminal, to care so much about children suffering from cancer and try to help them? Renee is someone I am proud to call my friend. Leiah Cooper. http://soireadthisbooktoday.com/

What’s the deal with that hashtag thing?.

‘Unbroken Souls’ will be released on Friday, August 1. This is a collection of my poetry that I have written over the years. Normally, I throw a poem on Facebook now and then, but I was inspired by Renee. Anyone who has read my blog, knows that Renee Robinson is a dear friend of mine. I read two of her poetry books so far and gave both of them 5 stars. It was becoming her friend and reading her emotions that gave me the inspiration to put together my own collection. Basically, she said I should (so I did). My book is dedicated to Renee and I have even included a poem that I wrote specifically for her.

When it’s released, I will post buy links.

Wed, 30 Jul 2014 12:42:03 GMT 8e3ced19-97ec-48fe-a994-c84bcaccd867 http://writeramyshannon.wix.com/master/apps/blog/book-review-maries-world-by-joe-e

"Marie’s World" by Joe E. Legend & Kristal McKerrington
Four Stars. The story sends the reader on a journey of suspense as Marie, does her best to protect those she cares about, and how she must deal with her current life as it clashes with her past. It’s an excellent story of strength and the writing brings on a level of suspense. I found myself rooting for Marie to make the right choice, and to realize that all her secrets would come out, eventually. The torment of Marie shows in the character’s actions and thoughts.‘Never meet those you idealise as they can never live up to what you dream them to be.’ I’m not a fan of cliffhanger endings but I found myself looking forward to what would happen to Marie next.

Wed, 30 Jul 2014 01:30:43 GMT 294fcd31-61b2-4021-b2dc-7dc78dd050d7

http://writeramyshannon.wix.com/master/apps/blog/book-review-butterfly-wings-by-renee-robinson

5 stars for Butterfly Wings <a href="http://www.amazon.com/Butterfly-Wings-Renee-Robinson- I love the emotions that were poured out on paper. My favorite poem was The Shadow Man but I loved each poem. Robinson's prose brought me on an emotional journey and brought tears and comfort to my heart.

Mon, 28 Jul 2014 19:44:23 GMT 299efc4a-b127-465b-ae39-b0b6e5e5bfa0 http://writeramyshannon.wix.com/master/apps/blog/book-review-bullfrog-boogie-by-renee-robinson

Five Stars for this Children’s book.

Another great book written by Renee Robinson. Robinson’s children’s books are inspiring and totally lyrical, and Bullfrog Boogie is no different. Children can read along with the wonderful rhythmic words or even sing them to their own tune. Children will find themselves wanting to "boogie" right along with the animals and even the creek. "All the birds line up to sing
Even the creeks are rippling." The colorful photos bring the children right into the story as well. Robinson even adds pages so that kids can color their own character.

It’s a great story for young children.

Bullfrog Boogie is available on amazon.com

Mon, 28 Jul 2014 17:48:06 GMT 7c20f18b-417b-4085-a4e8-0d4c21de9a15 http://writeramyshannon.wix.com/master/apps/blog/new-project

I have recently been inspired … inspired by a great woman, my friend, Renee Robinson. She writes children’s books, as well as poetry. In reading her work, I got inspired to share my poetry, too. I write poems as they come to me, but I only share a poem here and there on facebook. In thinking about how many poems I have written, I have decided to create a collective poetry books, tentatively entitled "Unbroken Souls". I guess this is my new WIP, but I still have two other stories that are works in progress. Having just finished one "third" draft, I think it’s the perfect time to gain more perspective and collect my poetry.

Will post more when I have more to share … maybe a release date or cover reveal … who knows because I never know.

Sat, 26 Jul 2014 21:00:26 GMT 1d478d56-b584-4665-9a77-80937cde06b0 http://writeramyshannon.wix.com/master/apps/blog/friendships

Friendships come in all shapes and sizes, some are close by and others may be miles away. With the rise of social media and the greatness of technology, we can become "friends" in an instant. Of course, there is a difference between knowing someone and just having them as  "friend" or a "follower" on one of your social media sites. Sometimes, we meet someone that we truly like and grow to care about, even if we have not ever met them. Like most things, letter writing has gone by the way side and we now text or email, or even comment on a "status" or whatever. I can say that nowadays, without the use of sites like "Facebook", "Twitter" and "linked in", I would probably not be in contact with a lot of my friends and family as I am now.

Recently, I was very lucky to "meet" this wonderful and inspiring woman and author of poetry and children’s books. She and I have become dear friends. I have to admit that it is nice to become friends with a fellow author. I have read what she has written, children’s books and poetry and she is very good at what she does. She also has terminal Cancer. Though, she is sick and has to deal with chemo, I think her strength and inspiring words of poetry and children’s stories, have kept her alive. I am glad that she is my friend.

I want everyone who has children to pick up one of her children’s books and all adults to read her blogs and read her poetry. Click on the link to go to her blog.

Renee Robinson

Wed, 23 Jul 2014 20:19:19 GMT 29a8a2fa-d974-49fd-86d9-08e6bd0f260f http://writeramyshannon.wix.com/master/apps/blog/a-new-view-at-the-old-life

I have leaned more in the past few months about marketing strategies than I did in the years since I first wrote "Unwritten Life" in 2004. I have decided to take a new look at my old (and published) works as I continue to work on my current projects, while also doing some reviews. Hey, I figure I read a lot anyways, I might as well review what I write. I do, however, only post the reviews of the stories that I like and if I feel they deserve less than 3 stars, I will not post my review.

Anyway, that’s my rant, Getting back to my focus on "old" stories. I’m working to start promoting the ones I already have out there and I figured the best way is to start at the beginning.

"Unwritten Life" was written in December of 2004. Yes, it took me four weeks to write my first draft of the lovely story that grew into a Saga with 68 volumes. The first edition "Unwritten Life" was published by then-publisher PublishAmerica (Now, it’s America Star books) in May of 2005. After the contract on that expired, I made some minor changes (but not to the storyline) and republished the second edition of "Unwritten Life" in 2012 by Lulu. It is now available on KINDLE format as well. (And until the end of July, it’s on sale for 99 cents). In about two to three weeks, it will also be available on audiobooks, and when it is, I will be shouting out loud on that one!

"Unwritten Life" is just the beginning of the story. Not only for the main Character Alex Garrison, but also for me, since it was the first full length book I had ever written. Since that fateful day when I finished it, I have written over 83 books. But this is about Alex Garrison and the friends and family she meets on her "unwritten" path.  And just a hint (even on book 68, Alex Garrison is still alive and well, well, kind of).

Recently, I was interviewed about "Unwritten Life" and here is the link to my INTERVIEW at HEI!Books

Sun, 20 Jul 2014 12:26:38 GMT 80080933-bf08-4cc5-8632-8d9ea42d30f0 http://writeramyshannon.wix.com/master/apps/blog/book-review-small-hangers-by-amy-fraher

Great story about a mother realizing that her children are growing up. The hangers that hold a child’s clothes can’t grow with the child so the children’s clothes eventually need adult hangers. The sign of growth.

Small Hangers by Amy Fraher

Sun, 20 Jul 2014 12:14:06 GMT fb9f2fed-c38f-4170-8db4-a38de80b8094 http://writeramyshannon.wix.com/master/apps/blog/book-review-captain-chemo-out-cancer-out

This is an amazing story of the fight against Cancer. The story is about the mighty chemo which helps the fight against the horrible and painful Cancer. Any child who suffers from Cancer or who has a sibling or friend who does will enjoy reading this in order to understand and get strength from the story.

Tue, 15 Jul 2014 23:16:06 GMT 62de91b9-1127-4365-bb47-4527b6a2f9f2 http://writeramyshannon.wix.com/master/apps/blog/book-review-raining-angels-by-renee-robinson

Definitely 5 STARS

Positively inspiring. The collection of poem were both light and dark, celebrating life as well as fighting against death and what comes after death. Robinson was able to paint colorful as well as dark images with her use of words, which showed how her emotions flowed from her body to her pen, to the paper.  Several passages caught my eye as I read her words and I could feel what she was feeling. I could see what she was seeing. I didn’t think I could pick one favorite poem until I was almost finished reading the book. The poem "Just One" stood out for me and I think it’s my favorite. Robinson writes "Hoping I will get well, Healing salts of the sea, say a prayer for me, I need just one, just one prayer, just one to save me." This is the poem that brought tears to my heart.

Tue, 15 Jul 2014 23:13:09 GMT fac48d9c-edea-4e70-89ff-7f63f86834cb

http://ow.ly/zNzVi Boogie with the bullfrogs down in the swamp. Watch the firefly show beginning at dusk. Dance with the butterflies on the way home. Say your prayers with the mantis and let the kittens tuck you in.

 
Momma
He’s coming for me
He stepped down from heaven
Placed His breath upon my cheek

Gently He held me
He said the time is near
He will be with me
He will calm my fear

He wanted me to tell you
He knows your hurt
But He will help to ease your pain
As you walk upon this Earth

Daddy. He is here now
He’s there at he window
Can’t you see Him?
He wears white robes and His face glows

Take my hands. Momma and Daddy.
Just one last time
The ship is about to set sail
I will leave my burden and pain behind

posted in Review Swaps or Volunteer ReviewersAmy Christine Shannon 11:04pm Jul 28
A new page I created to post my reviews. If you have a request, I will not only post it on specific sites, but also this facebook page and share it, along with the link. I’m an author so I know how important reviews are, and I only give unbiased reviews of all genres.

thx for bday wishes it was wonderful!

Let’s Boogie with the Bullfrogs. My newest child’s book, Bullfrog Boogie http://ow.ly/zEWkn

http://ow.ly/zxR92

Thanks for the links ya’ll

UPDATED since this was last posted: My interview will air tonight locally on Channel 10 News at 5:30 pm.  

I should receive a link which I will post when I have it.

Yesterday I was interviewed by Tracy Townsend of Channel 10 Eyewitness News.

Captain Chemo, Out Cancer, Out!

It is hoped the interview will generate donations for The Team Chemo Series and other children’s books to be provided by the children’s hospitals and treatment centers and given to the children inflicted with terminal cancer and other diseases too. It is planned for Team Chemo to grow to eventually include other childhood health issues.

It went very well except I did draw a few blanks on a couple of questions. The current chemo treatment I am undergoing is very hard on my thought processes and short term memory. Fortunately, I did include a written document which pretty told her in detail the things she wanted to know, but had forgotten when asked.

I do not yet know when the interview will air. I will be given a link which I can put on my UTube for those who would like to see, but missed on TV.

I have also started a new campaign on Inkshares. Once I have it approved, I will post it here along with a link to find the entire campaign.

Some of you have followed my blog since the beginning. I feel I have come a long way since then. It goes to show, although one may be near-death, life is not over.  It can and should be lived with all its color.

Do not be afraid to set your goals and make your dreams come true.

Review: M. Night Shyamalan’s “The Happening”.

Sounds like this might be a great read. Maybe you will think so too.

If someone you love has every had Alzheimer’s the link below is one you will want to read. I am the grandaughter of a feisty, sweet and loving grandmother. I remember her name. At the end, I do not think she did.  Elizabeth.  Most everyone called her Lizbeth. Daddy sometimes called her Lizzy. When she wasn’t listening, he’d say Lizard just to make me laugh.

I have retained these memories. Grandma did not. Like shaking a snowball, the snowflakes swirling around inside the globe of her mind. They are all mixed up and eventually they melt away.

The snowman shrinks slowly in the sun. Smaller and smaller. The brain empty of memories no longer needing the extra space.

http://news.yahoo.com/brain-protein-tied-alzheimers-disease-135852899.html

Slowly it creeps up on you

Alzheimer’s is cruel.
Slowly it creeps upon you.
It stalks you.

You have been chosen.
You are completely unaware.
A victim.

Through the years, its grasp grows stronger.
The pieces begin to fall.
One by one.
Until the picture becomes blurred.

https://artandmusicappreciation.blogspot.com

Aggravating in the beginning….
Where did I put my keys?

Slowly it progresses…
Did I take my pills?

Something is wrong with me. I am scared
What’s your name?

The pieces have fallen.
Too many are forever gone.
You stare at the mirror…
A single tear falls.

Inside you know what is happening.
Sometimes there are brief moments when pieces come back.
Like fog lifting up off the land, your memory is clear.

You try to grasp on.
Your hand slips.
The pieces fall.

The fog grows thick.
The memory is gone.
You stare at the mirror…

Who are you?

Renee Robinson

Missing Pieces

Check out the brand new group for those in need of book reviews, promotion, informative discussions and a little bit of fun. Amy, the group leader is dedicated and ambitious.

My first post to this group is not only to introduce myself, Amy and the group but to share some of my ideas and tools that have been helpful to me.

I focus on reviews. There are a couple of things I have noticed. It is much easier to receive reviews:

1. when you are willing to give reviews.
2. when you follow, like and seek out fellow authors
3. when you are active in social media groups via posts, likes and comments

Why?

1. Make it know you are willing to give good and thorough reviews.Often you will find writers are able to wait a few weeks or so as you may have a waiting list. Also, fellow writers understand being pressed for time not only to read and review but also to write and take care of your own books which is your main priority.

2 & 3 are very similar. Don’t just join but be active in groups.Make sure you are in the appropriate group for the post you want to make. If reviews are what you seek, don’t waste your time making posts and replies in the a writer’s group which does not encourage book promotions or reviews.

Making yourself seen increases your chances of swapping books and getting reviews. The more visible you are the more your name will be remembered. If you are dedicated to giving a good review in return for one, you are building a good reputation within the group and soon will have writers who are seeking you because they know you can be trusted.

I have had the misfortune of swapping books and reviews only to find I held up my end of the deal but got stuck by the writer who received a free copy of my book but never left a return review. And when I asked for, I received no reply.

When this happens the author’s name goes on my “NO REVIEW” list for future reference. I also have no problem sharing this list with another author to keep this from happening to them. Luckily,those who follow through far outweigh those who do not.

This is another advantage of being in this group. We all get familiar with each other and become friendly and dedicated.

Later on, I will share my review list to help those who do not know of all the options we have in getting these reviews out on as broad a scale as possible.

Welcome to those who join. Have a drink on me. Cheers. :)

The loss of a loved one can be distressing for those around us and, based on my experience, I think cats can suffer as well.

When another pet, an owner, or even just a human companion is suddenly gone from a cat’s life, it can have an affect on his or her happiness. Humans have ways to communicate their sadness and loved ones with whom they can work through their loss, but what about our surviving pets? When a family who has several pets loses a cat it can be a heartbreaking experience for everyone.

Cats develop bonds with each other in ways that we simply cannot comprehend. Their ability to communicate beyond what we are capable of understanding, and it seems to many that they mourn on deep levels. A client recently visited me after the loss of her oldest cat, Humphrey.  Her second cat, Felix, had become ill after Humphrey’s passing and was not eating well. After a thorough examination, I found that Felix was in good health, so I told her that his changing behavior could be a result of the loss.

She looked surprised at first, but her face softened and she hugged Felix close saying “I had never thought of that.” An article which may be helpful is this one on explaining death to your cat. Go to: Can You explain death to your cat.

The grieving process is an important part of life, but your cat doesn’t have to go through it alone. If you think your cat is showing a change in behavior after a death in the family,here is an article with tips on what signs to look for and how to help.

With warm regards,

Dr. Debra

P.S.: Sometimes the symptoms of grief can also be similar to those of boredom. Many indoor cats struggle with boredom; if you think your cat is one of them, take a look at these 12 ways to reduce boredom in indoor cats.  

Get Your Copy FAST. Get it on time for the 4th of July.

http://ecx.images-amazon.com/images/I/81ITHLs7w9L._SL1500_.jpg

A Unwritten Life, Amy Shannon

renee.robinson2

Amy Shannon
Alex has been trying to forget her past. The fact is, she runs from her past. Somehow, like a supernatural entity, her past follows and haunts her. It even finds her! How can this happen? She relocated and completely changed her life. Her habits, skills, employment even her entire identity has been changed!
It begins with her best friend appearing out of nowhere. He is a constant reminder of what she has tried to erase from her memories. -Who she was and what she did.
This story builds up and then makes your heart drop when Alex ends up with a stalker. As the reader, you want so much for Alex to overcome her past and find true happiness. Yet she finds herself in love, in danger and in turmoil.
I believe Amy Shannon can write with such chilling believability because of her own past experiences. I do not know any more than is written in her biography, this is strictly my opinion. I know from experience, an author’s best writings often come from a knowledge of what they write.
I am anxious to read Amy’s entire library. She is a new author who should not be overlooked. Her words scream Attention!

http://www.amazon.com/Unwritten-Life-Book-1-ebook/dp/B00G8KDSLO

http://ow.ly/yA5BN

The Bunny Tale-Who writes children’s books? http://ow.ly/yuWMC

http://ow.ly/ypTWo Check this out. You won’t be disappointed.

http://ow.ly/ypROn These books sound very good. Thought I’d share.

Amazon’s Stephanie Jackson Page via @amazon http://ow.ly/ypNPx

This review is such a nice one,I wanted to share. Below are links to her Website, blog and Facebook. She has written several books and has a lovely blog.

http://www.marianallanosauthor.blogspot.com/

http://www.marianallanos.com/

http://www.facebook.com/tristanwolfofficial

Book Review

Sunday, June 22, 2014

Review: Captain Chemo by Renee Robinson

Captain Chemo is a cheerful poem to bring hope to kids who are battling cancer. With a simple chant “Out, cancer, out!” the author gives kids a tool to build up their confidence and strength. She encourages children to fight and to keep a positive attitude when going through chemotherapy. The coloring pages at the end of the book, with some cute and funny characters, are a great bonus.

Author Renee Robinson is a cancer warrior herself. The “Make a Wish Foundation” is granting her a wish and will make this book available for children at hospitals. What I find remarkable is that even though Ms. Robinson herself–and her family– are going through a tough time, she still has such a drive and passion for creating and helping others.

Let’s hope that this book gets to the hands of many young children who need a smile and who need someone to tell them, I understand you, keep fighting, you are going to be okay. That is the message and importance of this children’s book.

FIND CAPTAIN CHEMO HERE

MORE BOOKS BY RENNEE ROBINSON HERE