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Results 1 - 16 of 16
1. Cakes, Candy, and Sweethearts! See you at TLA 2016 in Houston!

We can't wait for TLA 2016!
The Texas Sweethearts & Scoundrels are so excited for our annual librarian conference! This year we'll be raffling off a custom cake designed by cake illustratrator Akiko White! Akiko was the winner of the 2014 SCBWI Tomie dePaola Award. Her jaw dropping works of art are also incredibly delicious. You won't want to miss this raffle! 

DATE: Wednesday, April 20th
TIME: 11:00 - 12:00
PLACE: Booth 1421 (Texas Overlooked Books)

Akiko's amazing typewriter cake!
Where to find the Sweethearts at TLA!

The Texas Sweethearts have tons going on at TLA this year, and we'd love to see you! Our complete schedule is below. Please come by and say hi! Also we love hearing when people read our newsletter <3 span="">

TUESDAY, APRIL 19, 2016

2:00-3:00 - Emma Virján and Carmen Oliver speak on the panel "What's New with Texas Authors and Illustrators for Elementary Readers"
3:00-4:00 - P. J. Hoover and Cory Putman Oakes speak on the panel "What's New with Texas Authors and Illustrators for Middle Grade to YA". Jessica Lee Anderson moderating.
4:00-5:20 - Texas Authors & Illustrators Meet and Greet (Hilton Americas-Houston Hotel, 1600 Lamar Street)

WEDNESDAY, APRIL 20, 2016

10:15-11:50 - K.A. Holt participates in the Poetry Round Up, reading from HOUSE ARREST
10:30-11:00 - Cory Putman Oakes speaks in "Sofa Secrets" with the Junior Library Guild
10:30 - Christina Soontornvat signs ARCs of THE CHANGELINGS in the Sourcebooks booth
11:00-12:00 - Texas Sweethearts and Scoundrels Annual Reception at Texas Overlooked Books (booth 1421)
11:00-11:45 - P. J. Hoover signs TUT in the Tor booth (booth 1546)
1:00-2:00 - K.A. Holt signs HOUSE ARREST and RED MOON RISING in the Authors Area 
2:00-3:50 - P. J. Hoover will be on the panel "Discover the Spirit of Texas Reading Program"
2:00-3:00 - Nikki Loftin signs WISH GIRL, NIGHTINGALE'S NEST, and THE SINISTER SWEETNESS OF SPLENDID ACADEMY at Overlooked Books, Booth 1421
2:00-2:30 - Emma Virján signs WHAT THIS STORY NEEDS IS A HUSH AND A SHUSH (Aisle 4)
2:00-3:00 - Carmen Oliver Signs BEARS MAKE THE BEST READING BUDDIES at Capstone Booth #1621
3:30 - Cory Putman Oakes Signs DINOSAUR BOY SAVES MARS at the Sourcebooks booth
4:00-5:30 - P. J. Hoover and K.A. Holt are featured authors at the YART Texas Tea
4:00-5:20 - Christina Soontornvat participates in "Debutante Ball: Children's Literature Debut Authors 2016"

THURSDAY, APRIL 21, 2016

11:00-12:30 - P. J. Hoover and Jessica Lee Anderson sign at Texas Overlooked Books (booth 1421)
2:00-3:00 - Nikki Loftin signs WISH GIRL for Penguin Young Readers in TLA Author Signing Aisle #TK
6:30-8:30 - P. J. Hoover will be at Murder by the Book bookstore on a panel with David Lubar & Alan Gratz

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2. Welcome to our New Sweethearts & Scoundrels

We have new Sweethearts!
The Texas Sweethearts & Scoundrels are thrilled to announced we've added new members to our group! Please help us give them a Texas-sized welcome! Our complete lineup of active members is below. We welcome you to check out our website for more information on any of our members. We would love for you to discover new books and authors through our website.

Also, we challenge you...which of us are Sweethearts and which are Scoundrels :)

P. J. Hoover
Jessica Lee Anderson
Jo Whittemore
K. A. Holt
Emma Virjan
Cory Putman Oakes
Christina Soontornvat
Nikki Loftin
Carmen Oliver
Bethany Hegedus
Shelley Ann Jackson
Mari Mancusi

TLA Annual Conference

The Texas Sweethearts are gearing up for the annual Texas Library Association conference. Please watch your inbox next month for our complete schedule including details on our annual TLA reception (complete with sweet treats!). We can't wait to see you there!
Our Books

Our highlighted titles are below, but these are only a small part of what we have to offer. Our books are aimed at readers of all ages. Please take some time to browse our website. And thank you for your time!


Thank you for all you do! We appreciate your support!

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3. Happy Holidays from The Texas Sweethearts & Scoundrels!

Happy Holidays from The Texas Sweethearts & Scoundrels!
Thank you all for a wonderful year of sharing the love of reading! We Texas Sweethearts (and Scoundrels) are honored by the wonderful, supportive reading community we are a part of. We appreciate you!
Holiday Signing

Please join P. J. Hoover, K. A. Holt, and Jo Whittemore for a Texas Sweethearts holiday signing at Austin's favorite cupcake shop, Cupprimo. Scoop up some presents while enjoying sweet treats! Books make amazing gifts and cupcakes are always in season :)

WHEN: Saturday, December 12th, 2015, 2:00-4:00
WHERE: Cupprimo, Austin, TX

*** Librarians will be treated to a complementary Hot Caramel Apple Cider or Small Coffee ***

*** Free cupcake with book purchase ***

Books + Cupcakes = Win!
Caldecott Medalist Brian Floca takes a break to #readtut
P. J. Hoover

P. J. is thrilled to announce that there will be a sequel to Texas Lone Star Book TUT: THE STORY OF MY IMMORTAL LIFE! The sequel is scheduled for a March 2017 release.

P. J. had a wonderful fall visiting schools and speaking at librarian conferences. Thank you, librarians, for being so supportive! If you are interested in a school visit with P. J. Hoover, please contact her. She would love to visit!

The #readtut campaign continues to be a ton of fun! Don't forget to take a picture of someone reading TUT and post it online with hashtag #readtut. Everyone is doing it :)
Ms. Angela Holcek's second grade class (Elsa England Elementary) getting ready to introduce Emma Virján at the Texas Book Festival.
Emma Virján

Emma would like to thank all of the Texas librarians and teachers who have supported What This Story Needs is a Pig in a Wig this year.  An extra BIG shout out to Ms. Holcek's second grade class, not only for their wonderful introduction at this year's Texas Book Festival, but for volunteering to be The Pig in a Wig Players during the presentation.

Want more Pig in a Wig? What This Story Needs is a Hush and Shush will release in January, 2016. Publishers Weekly is calling it "...good-natured rhyming fun." Kirkus states that it's "... a book that will satisfy, even after many readings."
(from L to R) Emma Virjan, Jessica Lee Anderson, and P. J. Hoover
Jessica Lee Anderson

Jessica Lee Anderson is excited to announce she's signed a contract for five new chapter books with Rourke Educational Media! 

Jessica had a wonderful time signing books with PJ Hoover at Cupprimo and she looks forward to several upcoming school visits. She has a few remaining school visit openings this spring.

Jo Whittemore

Jo Whittemore is pleased to share a very sweet review from Publishers Weekly for Book 1 of the Confidentially Yours series, due to release in tandem with Book 2 on January 5, 2016.

"The banter and quips bouncing around among these classmates and friends energize the story, which reinforces the importance of recognizing one's limits, learning how to both take and give advice, and knowing how to be a good friend."

Eager readers will also receive a lovely completion certificate when they finish Books 1 & 2!


Visit Jo Whittemore's website for more information!
Don poses with a fan at NCSS
Don Tate

November was a busy traveling month for Don, which took him to Columbus, Minneapolis, New Orleans and Shreveport. He spoke, signed books, and presented at NCTE, NCSS, and AASL. While traveling, he was able to research and create sketches on his next book, STALEBREAD CHARLIE AND THE RAZZY DAZZY SPASAM BAND, which is set in old New Orleans. 

Don Tate's POET: THE REMARKABLE STORY OF GEORGE MOSES HORTON has garnered two more honors. It was among Kirkus' Best-Of 2015 Picture Books, and a Best Multicultural Book of 2015, compiled by the Center for Multicultural Children's Literature.

Don will wind down his 2015 school visit program next week with a weeklong visit to Houston schools. At this time, he is looking to book school visits in April and May of 2016.

Visit Don Tate's website for more information!
K. A. Holt

KA Holt is excited to announce that her latest novel, HOUSE ARREST, is part of TLA's Spirit of Texas Reading Program for middle schools.

In other fantastic news, Kari has sold her first picture book, BECAUSE YOU'RE WONDERFUL, to Maria Modugno at Random House.

Kari is booking school visits for March, April and May. If you'd like to show your upper elementary grades or 6th or 7th graders that poetry can be fun (writing found poetry! writing zombie haiku!) please contact her.

Visit K. A. Holt's website for more information!
Jeanette Larson

Jeanette will be at the Laredo Book Festival on December 12th, 2015 at the Laredo Public Library. More information can be found on the festival website.

Our Books

Our books are aimed at readers of all ages! Please take some time to browse our website and see what we have to offer.


Thank you for all you do! We appreciate your support!

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4. Wishing you a lovely fall from The Texas Sweethearts & Scoundrels!

We've got a case of fall fever, even if the weather hasn't quite cooled off.
cat_with_pumpkin_hat.jpg
  
Besides the excitement of pumpkin spice lattes making a return, we have lots of thrilling news to share, fun festival events and school visits to look forward to, plus giveaways!
  
As always, we thank you for reading and staying connected.  
  
  
Our Texas Book Festival Schedule
  
  
P. J. Hoover:
  • October 17, 2015, 1:00-1:45 pm - "In a World" Panel  
K.A. Holt:
  • October 17, 2015, 4:00-4:45 pm - "Ink Blots" Panel
Emma Virjan:
  • October 18, 2015, 1:00-1:30 pm - Read Me a Story Tent
Don Tate:
  • October 18, 2015, 3:30-4:00 pm - Read Me a Story Tent

Latest News

 
Jessica Lee Anderson

Jessica is thrilled to announce the release of 5 mystery chapter books from Rourke Educational Media. The books appeal to 2nd-5th graders and are connected yet stand alone. They are also perfect for your early fluent reader! Each mystery has educational components such as character interviews, discussion questions, and writing prompts.
  
  
  
Jessica is available for school visits and is now offering a mystery writing workshop for small groups and "The Mysteries of the Writing Life" for larger groups.  If you book a school visit before Halloween, she will include a set of the five mysteries. Contact Jessica for more information.
  
P. J. Hoover


P. J. Hoover (and Starscape/Macmillan) are giving away a classroom set of TUT: THE STORY OF MY IMMORTAL LIFE! It's easy to enter, and there are ways to get multiple entries. With loads of curriculum tie-ins, TUT is a great choice to get both kids and educators excited about reading and learning. For all the details on this amazing offer, please visit the giveaway page found here.

 
  

What's the craziest thing you can do while reading TUT? Where is the craziest place you can be while reading TUT? Snap a picture of yourself doing it and post it with the hashtag #readtut and share it with all your friends on social media.(Keep it safe. Keep it clean.) Encourage the kids at your schools to do the same. And thank you for your TUT support!

 
#readtut Cynthia Leitich Smith reads TUT while Kwame Alexander and e. E. Charlton-Trujillo look up to the sky

 P. J. Hoover has kicked off the school year with some amazing visits, including Austin Discovery School, Walsh Middle School in Round Rock, TX, Ford and Curtis Middle Schools in Allen, TX, the Region 20 Library Conference in San Antonio, TX, and the first annual Mansfield Book Festival in Mansfield, TX. P. J. would love to visit your school or festival. For information and availability, please contact P. J.
  
Look for P. J. Hoover at the following places. She would love to see you!
  • October 7, 2015, 6:00-8:00 pm - Barnes & Noble Palms Crossing Mall, McAllen, TX
  • October 9, 2015 - Region 1 Library Fall Media Conference, South Padre Island, TX
  • October 16, 2015 - Region 13 Library Roundup, Austin, TX
  • October 17, 2015, 1:00-1:45 pm - Texas Book Festival, "In a World" Panel, Austin, TX
  • October 22, 2015, 6:00-8:00 pm - Barnes & Noble Northwoods, San Antonio, TX
  • October 30-31, 2015 - Austin Comic Con, Austin, TX
  
Emma Virján

Come watch the What This Story Need is a Pig in a Wig trailer here! 
  
  
Don't miss your chance to get to know Pig at the Texas Book Festival at 1:00 on Sunday 10/18. 
  
  
K. A. Holt

Kari has some great news to share this month: her newest novel, GNOMEAGEDDON has been sold to McElderry Books editor Karen Wojtyla, with a tentative publication date of fall 2017.
  
In further exciting news, Kari's middle grade novel in verse, HOUSE ARREST, will be released on October 6th!
  
Also in October, the ebook of RHYME SCHEMER will be available for $1.99 as part of Chronicle Book's Eye Candy Best of the Best promotion.
  
 If you're going to be Austin for the Texas Book Festival, check out Kari's panel, Ink Blots.
  
Also at the festival, Kari will be typing spontaneous custom poems on a vintage typewriter as part ofTypewriter Rodeo.

 
Don Tate
  
Don Tate launched his new book, POET: THE REMARKABLE STORY OF GEORGE MOSES HORTON, in Chapel Hill, North Carolina, where the story is set. Don also had the opportunity to meet many Horton's descendants, who turned out to get a signed copy of the book. "It was such an honor to meet Horton's family, and put a book about their relative in their hands," Tate said.
  
  
A CCSS Activity Guide, a FREEDOM AS WORDS Poetry Guide, and a TEKS Curriculum guide are all available for the book for free downloadhttp://dontate.com/books/poet-the-remarkable-story-of-george-moses-horton/
Northside Elementary, in Pittsboro, NC, recaps their full dayschool visit with Don.
  
Texas Book Festival
Don Tate and Chris Barton will be featured authors at next month's Texas Book Festival. They will present their books, THE AMAZING AGE OF JOHN ROY LYNCH and POET, on Sunday, October 18 at the Children's Read Me a Story Tent.
  
School Visits
Don's fall school visit schedule is now all booked up. He is now booking library visits for the winter and spring. Book early, we want to get everyone in! Thank you, Texas librarians, for your support!
  

Jo Whittemore      

Jo is excited to share the covers for the first two books in the Confidentially Yours series, coming January 5, 2016: Brooke's Not-So Perfect-Plan and Vanessa's Fashion Face-Off. Stay tuned for a giveaway!
  
  
  
  
  
Jo will also be available for school visits this year and would love to share the joy of reading and writing with your students. More info can be found here: http://www.jowhittemore.com/school-visits.html

                          

FEATURED SWEETHEART 



This month, our Featured Sweetheart is...

Jennifer Coleman at Murchison Elementary in Pflugerville ISD

because of her innovative ideas and the way she gets students jazzed about reading! She isn't afraid to wear an electric blue wig to spread book love.

Thank you, Jennifer, for being this month's Featured Sweetheart!
  
SWEET
MONTHLY TIP:
 REVIEWS
 Encourage your students to write reviews of the books they're reading.Reviews matter to readers,  authors, and illustrators, plus it is a great way to get your students analyzing and writing! The students can get creative with their reviews such as making "student selection cards" by decorating an index card which can then be displayed on the book shelf. Here are some review tips: start with a brief yet lively description of the book, discuss reactions and connections (no spoilers!), and make suggestions for who the book would be a good fit for or recommendations for related books. 

THANK YOU, LIBRARIANS!

Here's to pumpkin flavored treats and a happy fall for everyone! 

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5. Happy Back-to-School from The Texas Sweethearts & Scoundrels!

It's time for school buses, backpacks, hallways filled with students, and reading. The Texas Sweethearts & Scoundrels are looking forward to celebrating another school year with you. Thank you for your continued support! We love Librarians!

We have so much wonderful news to share with you along with some sneak peaks of what is ahead. Thank you for reading!
Catch us in the Next Month

Emma Virján will be a featured author/illustrator at the Region 3 2015 Library Roundup, September 24, 2015. 

P. J. Hoover will be a featured author at the Mansfield ISD Book Festival coming up on September 19, 2015.

P. J. Hoover will be signing books at the Stonebriar Mall Barnes & Noble in Frisco, TX on September 23, 2015 from 7:00-9:00 pm.

Latest News


P. J. Hoover

P. J.'s summer included a yearly trip to D.C., travel to the Los Angeles SCBWI Conference, and getting her son ready for his first year of high school :) She's looking forward to a fun year filled with school visits, book events, Friday night football games, and much writing goodness.


P. J. still has some openings for 2015-2016 school visits. If you are interested in a school visit, please contact P. J. for information! www.pjhoover.com


Watch P. J.'s Spirit of Texas Middle School Reading List video!
Watch P. J.'s Spirit of Texas Middle School Reading List video!


Huge thank you to Kate DiPronio, librarian at Cedar Valley Middle School in Round Rock ISD, for featuring TUT: THE STORY OF MY IMMORTAL LIFE painted on the lockers! This is amazing! TUT is in such wonderful company :)



There are new hardcover dust jackets for P. J.'sForgotten Worlds trilogy. These dust jackets can be placed overtop the old ones or used instead. If you currently have P. J.'s Forgotten Worlds trilogy in hardcover in your library and you would like a set of these new (much more kid-friendly) dust jackets, please drop P. J. a line and let her know. If you don't have these in hardcover and are interested in a set, please also, drop P. J. a line. The Forgotten Worlds trilogy is appropriate for kids 3rd grade and up.




For those audiobook fans, TUT: THE STORY OF MY IMMORTAL LIFE is now available in audio. You can get all the information here!

 



Jessica Lee Anderson

Jessica Lee Anderson enjoyed the summer tremendously but has a case of back-to-school fever! She's offering discounts for school visits booked before September 15. She's currently working on an early chapter book series and hopes to share more information about it soon. To contact Jessica, visit www.jessicaleeanderson.com.



Emma Virján

Emma is pleased to share some great reviews for What This Story Needs is a Pig in a Wig.


New York Times, Laura Lutz
"With its frequent use of sight words and a story line that builds on itself, this is a great choice for absolute beginners and - bonus! - it has a true story arc, with a plot about friendship and cooperation."

Publisher's Weekly (starred review):
"In a story with the echoes of Seuss and Willems, Virján offers a very funny lesson about the unreliability of narrators."

Kirkus Reviews:
"A boatload of giggles will keep the reader returning for more easy-to-read fun."



Emma is also excited to reveal a sneak peak of the cover of What This Story Needs is a Hush and a Shush, book 2 in thePig In A Wig Book Series. (Harper, January 2016)
 


K. A. Holt

Kari has been busy this summer traveling and sharing her love of poetry. First, she was off to Boston and Nantucket as part of Typewriter Rodeo, a quartet of poets who write spontaneous poetry on vintage typewriters. She also attended the Nantucket Book Festival to speak about RHYME SCHEMER. Nantucket was lovely, and the festival goers were infectious with enthusiasm for books. 

 


After her Northeast adventure, Kari went to the ALA conference in San Francisco, speaking on a panel about verse novels and engaging reluctant readers. As always, it was a blast meeting up with librarians and teachers and talking books, books, books non-stop for several days.

 


Her final trip was to Wisconsin, to retreat with other members of her literary agency and to brainstorm new projects. It was great fun to hang out with so many talented authors.


(From left, clockwise around the table: Anne Nesbit's hand, Dashka Slater, Audrey Vernick, me, Lynda Mullaly Hunt, and Janet Fox)

Kari also recorded a handful of podcasts this summer. If you're interested in listening to her talk about the writing processes of RHYME SCHEMER and HOUSE ARREST (releasing October 6th from Chronicle books), you can listen here and here.

And finally, Kari is very excited to share this lovely review in Publisher's Weekly for HOUSE ARREST.

"Touches of humor lighten the mood, and Holt's firsthand knowledge of the subject (her own son had trachea problems, the acknowledgments reveal) adds depth to this poignant drama without overwhelming it." 


Don Tate

Don Tate's debut as both author and illustrator, POET: THE REMARKABLE STORY OF GEORGE MOSES HORTON, has garnered three starred reviewsover the summer. 
School Library Journal, Kirkus, and Publishers Weekly have all raved on this nonfiction picture book which officially publishes on September 1. 

A special Teacher's Guide is available for download here

Don will launch this special book in Austin, TX, on October 10, and hopes that locals can make it out the the celebration. Details to come.

Watch the Book Trailer for POET!
Watch the Book Trailer for POET!

Currently Don is booking a few remaining spots for the fall, and is seeking out opportunities to present to students in the spring. As both an author and an illustrator of many nonfiction titles, Don has the unique ability to share both sides of the bookmaking process with young readers. Please see his school visit page for more info.


Jo Whittemore      

Jo has big surprises coming up next month, so keep a watch for that!


Jeanette Larson

With her continued enjoyment of retirement, Jeanette Larson will become our first Texas Sweetheart Emeritus. We'll do our best to rope her into joining us for book signings and receptions at TLA, and wish her the very best!                                     

THANK YOU, LIBRARIANS!

Here's to a happy and healthy school year for everyone! 

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6. आप का परिवारवाद

ak pariwarwaad by Monica gupta

 

आप का परिवारवाद… AAP भी आ ही गए परिवारवाद के लपेटॆ में अरविंद जी

भाजपा के प्रदेश अध्यक्ष ने कहा कि केजरीवाल भी कांग्रेस के नक्शेकदम पर चलकर ‘जय हिंद जीजाजी’ कहने की परंपरा को आगे बढ़ा रहे हैं और कांग्रेस की‘‘जीजा जी’’ परंपरा को आगे ले जा रहे हैं। हालांकि केजरीवाल जी ने इस मुद्दे पर ट्विटर पर सफाई देते हुए कहा, ‘‘वो मेरे चाचा की साली के जीजा की भतीजी के ससुर की भांजी के भतीजे की साली के भाई की बेटी है।’’ उन्होंने कहा कि विपक्ष ये अफवाह फैला रहा है कि स्वाती मेरी बहन जोकि पूरी तरह से बकवास है।

 

Kejriwal on DCW row: Swati Maliwal not even remotely connected to me | The Indian Express

The Aam Aadmi Party on Wednesday refuted charges of nepotism in appointing Swati Maliwal, wife of party leader Naveen Jaihind, as the head of the Delhi Commission for Women (DCW), saying she had a long record of “activism” in different spheres.

Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal was also quick to deny that Maliwal was related to him.

“Some media houses and opposition leaders alleging that Swati is my cousin. Complete nonsense. She is not even remotely connected,” Kejriwal tweeted.

“Some media houses and opposition leaders alleging that Swati is my cousin. Complete nonsense. She is not even remotely connected,” Kejriwal tweeted.

Some media houses n opp leaders alleging that swati is my cousin. Complete nonsense. She is not even remotely connected(1/2)

— Arvind Kejriwal (@ArvindKejriwal) July 15, 2015

The party said Maliwal has a long record of “activism” in different spheres and the appointment was done on “merit”. Kejriwal on DCW row: Swati Maliwal not even remotely connected to me | The Indian Express

The post आप का परिवारवाद appeared first on Monica Gupta.

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7. Come Celebrate Spring and TLA with The Texas Sweethearts and Scoundrels

April showers bring May flowers...and TLA. We hope to see many of you there. Below is our complete schedule and other Sweetheart/Scoundrel news. As always, thank you Texas librarians for all that you do and for your love of books.

TLA Schedule 

P.J. Hoover
Wednesday, April 15
11:00-11:45 am - P. J. Hoover signing copies of TUT: THE STORY OF MY IMMORTAL LIFE at Tor/Forge Booth (1352)
2:00-3:00 pm - P. J. Hoover and Jessica Lee Anderson signing at Overlooked Books Booth (2142)
4:00-5:30 pm - P. J. Hoover at YART Texas Tea Event
Thursday, April 16
9:50-10:20 am - P. J. Hoover at TT4L Event, Meet and Greet area
2:00-2:30 pm - P. J. Hoover on TT4L Author Panel
6:30-8:30 pm - Texas Authors and Illustrators Meet and Greet event at Hilton Hotel
Jeanette Larson
Tuesday, April 14
4:00-4:50 pm - moderating Stacks Full of Murder with three mystery writers.
Wednesday, April 15
4:00-4:50 pm  - Weeding is Not a Crime
Thursday, April 16
10:00-11:00 am - Signing at Overlooked Books Booth (2142)
Jessica Lee Anderson
Wednesday, April 15
2:00-3:00 pm - P.J. Hoover and Jessica Lee Anderson signing at Overlooked Books Booth (2142)
K.A. Holt
Wednesday, April 15
10:15-11:50 am - Kari will be reading from HOUSE ARREST at the POETRY ROUNDUP.
3:00-3:45 pm - book signing for HOUSE ARREST in the Author's Area
4:00-5:20 pm - Texas Tea for YA Authors. Kari will be sharing about HOUSE ARREST, and signing ARCs.
Thursday, April 16
9:00-9:45 am - TT4L meet & greet
9:50-10:35 am - Kari will be signing HOUSE ARREST ARCs at the TT4L event
10:35-Noon - Kari will be typing spontaneous, customized poems on a vintage typewriter, withTypewriter Rodeo

Quick side note: In a non-TLA capacity, Kari will be reading and competing at the Literary Death Match at 8:30 on Tuesday 4/14 at Austin's North Door. Hit the exhibit hall at the conference center, and then come by for some literary smashmouth fun.
Don Tate
Tuesday, April 14
2:00-3:00 pm - A Colorful Canon: Celebrate Our Diversity. (CPE #275: SBEC2.0)
 
6:00- 6:45 pm - Signing ARCs during Grand Opening, POET: THE REMARKABLE STORY OF GEORGE MOSES HORTON
Wednesday, April 15
10:15-11:50 am - Annual Poetry Roundup  
(CPE #305: SBEC 1.5)

2:00 -2:45 pm - Signing IT JES' HAPPENED: WHEN BILL TRAYLOR STARTED TO DRAW, (Lee & Low Books)

3:30 - Booth signing, THE AMAZING AGE OF JOHN ROY LYNCH (Eerdmans booth 1475)
Thursday, April 16
9:00- 9:45 am - Peachtree booth signing (1656), POET: THE REMARKABLE STORY OF GEORGE MOSES HORTON

2:00-3:00 pm - I Met Them at the Library: Picture Book Biographies (CPE#478: 2.0)

FRIDAY, April 17
9:00 am -  Booth signing, THE AMAZING AGE OF JOHN ROY LYNCH (Eerdmans booth 1475)
Latest Sweetheart/Scoundrel News

Don Tate
The Amazing Age of John Roy Lynch, illustrated by Don Tate, has received its second starred review. This one from Booklist:
The fascinating story of John Roy Lynch's life in slavery to his election to the U. S. House of Representatives at age 25, gets a stirring treatment here. . . . Tate's often expansive illustrations emphasize important incidents in the text. The emphasis in other illustrations is on faces, full of emotion add to the power of the telling and the rich soft tones of Tate's palette welcome the eye to linger. "
 
Don also announces his speaking and book tour website: The Freedom Tour, with dates, teacher resources, more! Contact Don for more information or to book an event.

Don Tate recently had the pleasure of touring schools in Nacogdoches, Houston, and Round Rock, Texas. Thank you, Texas librarians, for bringing students and authors together for a wonderful literacy experience! 


K.A. Holt
Kari is excited to announce that RHYME SCHEMER has received a starred review from Library Media Connection, stating, "A delightful story with just the right amount of boy language, wonderful free verse poetry, and underlying messages." 

RHYME SCHEMER was also recently named a Bank Street Best Book of the Year, with Outstanding Merit.

Kari will be attending TLA this year, promoting her soon-to-be-released book HOUSE ARREST, a middle grade novel in verse about one boy's path to redemption as he navigates a sick brother, a grieving mother, and one tough probation officer.

Emma J. Virján
What This Story Needs is a Pig in a Wig is coming May 12, 2015. You can pre-order now. Checkout the  Pig in a Wig booktrailer. 
Emma is excited to announce that What This Story Needs is a Pig in a Wig has received a starred review from Publisher's Weekly: "In a story with the echoes of Seuss and Willems, Virjan offers a very funny lesson about the unreliability of narrators." 




FEATURED SWEETHEART 



This month, our Featured Sweetheart is...

Graciela Cunninghamwith TeacherThinkTank

Teacher Think Tank offers lesson plans and thematic resources to help in lesson planning. Graciela is both a Sweetheart and a Scoundrel.

Thank you, Graciela, for being this month's Featured Sweetheart!
 
SWEET
MONTHLY TIP: 
Enjoying your Austin Visit
For city, hotel and parking maps, an events calendar, or for a list of great places to eat and shop while you're in Austin, check out theAustin Convention & Visitors Bureau.  
 
 

THANK YOU, LIBRARIANS!
 

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8. Gratitude Galore

Thanksgiving is almost here and we're anticipating plates overflowing with turkey (or Tofurky for our vegetarian friends), stuffing, and all the fixings. Regardless of our family traditions, one thing is for sure-we're overwhelmed with gratitude! Thanks for all that you do and for your dedication to books!
  
  
  
  
We appreciate you staying connected with us and we have some exciting updates...

Don Tate
  

Don Tate, along with Carolyn Flores and Duncan Tonatiuh appear at the inaugural McAllen Book Festival
 
  
Emma Virjan
You can learn more about Pig and see more of Emma's artwork on her site here.

Jeanette Larson
  
Jeanette is currently booking spring and summer library visits. Programs can focus on the science of birds and birding and writing folktales or can include a fun hummingbird activity.
  

 

Jeanette had a great time at the YALSA Book Blitz in Austin. Nothing beats being able to give away books to librarians! 


Jessica Lee Anderson

Jessica has teaching credentials and loves to share her passion with students of all ages!  Please contact her at 
Jessica Lee Anderson for more information about booking spring and summer visits. She's currently offering a special presentation rate for visits in the San Antonio and Austin area.

 

 
Jessica had a wonderful time visiting Tuloso-Midway High School in Corpus Christi along with Sweetheart P.J. Hoover. Jessica loved connecting with the students and spending time with the talented and dedicated Debbie VanZandt, one of our previous Featured Sweethearts. Jessica can't wait to return to Corpus for the Teen Bookfest by the Bayon February 28, 2015! 

   
Jo Whittemore
 
Jo Whittemore had the privilege of moderating "Do You Believe in Magic?" at the Texas Book Festival that featured stellar authors Annie Barrows, Nikki Loftin, and Natalie Lloyd. 

Jo also received a great Kirkus review for Colonial Madness!Her favorite excerpt: "Whittemore brings her customary insight and humor to every page of this funny and sometimes-suspenseful romp. The history goes down easy, with lots of laughs."
 
Kari Anne Holt
 
Kari enjoyed her time at the YALSA Symposium last weekend, participating in panels on tween readers, and engaging young readers with poetry. The Book Blitz was also fun - so many fantastic books up for grabs, so many excited librarians!

    

Kari's newest book RHYME SCHEMER recently enjoyed a spotlight moment as an Amazon Best Book of the Month for October and as a #1 New Release in "Children's Bullies Issues Books".
 
There's a big announcement coming soon--keep an eye on Kari's Facebook page and Twitter for details! 

P.J. Hoover

In addition to having TUT: THE STORY OF MY IMMORTAL LIFE named to the 2015 Lone Star Reading List, P. J. is honored to have been named to the 2015 Spirit of Texas Middle School Reading List! Thank you, Texas Librarians!

      
  


P. J. is actively booking school visits for the spring! If you are interested in a school visit, P. J. would love to come to your school! P. J.'s presentation focuses on mythology, goal setting, and the writing process, and is great for 3rd-12th grade. P. J. also speaks at conferences and would love to present at your next conference. Please contact P. J. via her website for more information.
   
This past month, P. J. had a wonderful time presenting to students at Keefer Crossing Middle School in New Caney, Annunciation Orthodox School in Houston, Hopewell Middle School in Round Rock, Brownsville Academic Center, Garcia Middle School in Brownsville ISD, Tuloso-Midway High School in Corpus Christi (with Sweetheart Jessica Lee Anderson), and Fulmore Middle School in Austin.


P. J. participated in the Texas Book Festival along with authors S. S. Taylor and Michael Fry on the "Adventure is Out There" panel. She also attended the "Youth Fiction Contest Awards" panel and was thrilled to celebrate her teen friend, Kate Lee's, first place win for her piece "Bittersweet Stars." More information on the TBF Youth Fiction Contest can be foundhere.

 
 
 
Just over a week ago, P. J. attended the first annual McAllen Book Festival along with Sweethearts Don Tate and Jeanette Larson. The festival was a huge success with a great turnout from the community, and the library (a converted Wal-Mart) was beautiful.
  
 
And finally, this past weekend, P. J. participated in the "Bridge to Tweenabithia: The Gap Between Juvenile and Young Adult" panel at the YALSA Symposium here in Austin, Texas, along with Sweetheart K. A. Holt. 

Happy Thanksgiving!

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9. October Adventures with the Texas Sweethearts & Scoundrels!

How is it late October?!

The fall is flying by, and just to make it fly even faster, we have some amazing events (and book launches and big news) we want to share with you...

Don Tate
Last week in Springfield, Illinois, Don gave the keynote address at the Illinois Library Association Youth Services Author Breakfast, followed by an enthusiastic book signing. As the 2015 artist for iRead Summer Reading Program, Don's artwork, Read to the Rhythm, will be used by librarians and students nationwide.  http://www.ireadprogram.org/

The next day, Don addressed students at the Chicago Public Library, where all of 800 students received a package of books, thanks to Bernie's Book Bank.

If you will be visiting the Texas Book Festival this weekend, Don invites you to join him and an esteemed group of authors in a discussion of diversity. The  #WeNeedDiverse Books panel will take place on Saturday at noon, in the sanctuary at the First United Methodist Church (1201 Lavaca St.), with authors Pat Mora, Andrea Pinkney, Jacqueline Woodson, Tim Tingle, and Diane Gonzales Bertrand.
 
(Don Tate signs Read to the Rhythm posters at the Illinois Library Association conference)

In July, Don finished illustrations for his next book, Poet: The Remarkable Story of George Moses Horton of Chapel Hill(Peachtree, 2015). This will be Don's first authored andillustrated book! In addition, he won a BOOK LAUNCH award-$2,000.00!-from the Society of Children's Book Writers and Illustrators (SCBWI). The money will allow him to take the book on a national book tour next year.

For Don, school visits and literary presentations will take off first thing this September, when he presents at schools in Round Rock, Texas; Delray Beach, Florida; San Antonio, Texas; and Springfield, Illinois! Please contact him early to inquire about his lively and interactive school visits.



Emma Virjan
Emma Virján is pleased to announce May 12, 2015 is the release date for What This Story Needs is a Pig in a Wig.
Stay tuned for more Pig News.
You can learn more about Pig and see more of Emma's artworkon her site here.



Jeanette Larson
Jeanette Larson will participate in the ESC Region 2 Technology Conference on November 4 in Corpus Christi. If you are in the area, stop by to say hello. On November 8 Jeanette will be at the Overlooked Books booth at the McAllen Book Festival, McAllen, TX.

As part of the YALSA YA Literature Symposium, Jeanette will participate in the Book Blitz on Saturday, November 15 in Austin. Registered participants receive tickets to get free books from participating authors.
Jessica Lee Anderson
Jessica Lee Anderson enjoyed speaking on a panel with PJ Hoover at the ESC-20 Library Resource Roundup!  Jessica loves spending time with friends and making new ones, even the most unlikely of friends. (Hello, Snake!)  She's looking forward to visiting with students at several upcoming school visits.  Don't hesitate to contact Jessica if you're interested in a school visit or a writing workshop!  Not only does she still have some availability for the fall and the spring, she's also offering discounts.  Please contact her at Jessica Lee Anderson for more information. 

 

Jo Whittemore
Jo Whittemore is honored to be moderating a panel at Texas Book Festival entitled "Do You Believe in Magic?" from 1:15pm-2:15pm on Saturday, October 25th in Capitol Extension Room E2.026.

Jo will also be doing a joint book release tour in March 2015 with author Cory Putman Oakes. 
She'll be offering a "two authors for the price of one" deal on school visits! Contact her for more info.  
 
Kari Anne Holt
Kari's October is barreling by at warp speed. She is so excited to announce the launch of her new book, RHYME SCHEMER, a middle grade novel-in-verse. 

 
RHYME SCHEMER has received some lovely reviews, which is always very exciting. 

 
"A strong anti-bullying message. Ideal for classroom use."
School Library Journal

"This transformative tale offers important lessons for all persuasions of middle graders, whether bullies or targets, complicit or horrified bystanders."
Kirkus Reviews

"Poetry-writing seventh-grade bully both is believable and sympathetic, and his voice rings totally authentic."
Booklist

 

Kari is having a joint book launch with author Chris Barton, to celebrate the release of her book, RHYME SCHEMER, and his book, ATTACK! BOSS! CHEAT CODE! If you'll be in the Austin area on Saturday, November 1st at 2pm, stop by Book People for a fun party.



Kari is also busy at work on her next two releases, HOUSE ARREST (Chronicle, 2015) and RED MOON RISING (McElderry, S&S, 2016).

 

If you're planning to stop by the Texas Book Festival (October 25-26), Kari will be on the Poetry For You panel with authors Jacqueline Woodson and Isabel Quintero at the Family Life Center (1300 Lavaca) on Saturday the 25th from 2:30-3:30. They will all be signing books directly after the panel.

 
P.J. Hoover

P. J. Hoover is thrilled to share two new wonderful reviews for TUT: THE STORY OF MY IMMORTAL LIFE! Other reviews and more information about the book can be found on her website.

"Cleverly funny, rich in Egyptian history, and intriguingly fast-paced, Tut brilliantly blends fantasy with thoughtfully constructed characterization to create a story that will beguile fans of modern-day mythology."
-VOYA 

"Hoover's fun interpretations of Egyptian gods and goddesses, frenetic pace, and appropriately modern snark propel this highly entertaining adventure."
-Booklist 

Huge thank you to Texas librarians for nominating TUT: THE STORY OF MY IMMORTAL LIFE for the Lone Star list!
  
September was a wonderful whirlwind month for P. J. Hoover. Following the release of TUT: THE STORY OF MY IMMORTAL LIFE, P. J. spent much of the time on the road, traveling to schools and presenting at conferences.
 
P. J. spent a week presenting to students at Curtis Middle School and Ford Middle School in Allen, TX. Thank you to librarians Kay Hawkins and Morgan LeFevre for inviting P. J. back for the third year in a row!

P. J. next flew to Tampa, FL where she delivered the keynote address for the annual TBAWP (Tampa Bay Area Writing Project) Fall Conference. P. J. spoke to a group of about 200 educators about the importance of enjoying the journey rather than focusing on the destination.

Fall is the time for those wonderful regional librarian conferences, and P. J. enjoyed presenting at Region 13, Region 3, and Region 20 (along with Texas Sweetheart Jessica Lee Anderson). P. J. presented on cross-curriculum, combining reading with things like book trailer creation, video game creation, and Minecraft. Her hopes are to promote out-of-the-box ideas to get and keep kids excited about reading.

 

Thank you to Laurel Mountain Elementary School and librarian David Jurecka for supporting TUT: THE STORY OF MY IMMORTAL LIFE with a wonderful pre-order campaign! I appreciate you guys!
  
Along with cooler weather, October brought Austin Comic Con! P. J. Hoover (along with Texas authors Joy Preble, Cory Putman Oakes, Madeline Smoot, and Texas Sweetheart Jo Whittemore) dressed up in costume and sold books at the Writing Ninjas of Texas booth. P. J. was delighted when San Antonio librarians Dana Hutchins and Lorrie Roussin stopped by the booth to say hi! P. J. also participated in a panel on using martial arts in writing fight scenes.

 

Look for P. J. Hoover at the Texas Book Festival! She will be on the Adventure is Out There panel with authors Michael Fry and S. S. Taylor on Saturday, October 25th at 2:30 in Capital Extension Room E.2.026. Book signing will follow immediately in the author signing tent.

P. J. brushed off her computer programming skills again, this time releasing CASTLE OF DOOM! (a video game she originally wrote back in college) on Scratch. Please consider sharing Scratch and P. J.'s games with your students. Scratch is used widely in schools to get kids excited about learning computer programming skills. You can find more information about Scratch and P. J.'s games on her website.


This month P. J. looks forward to school visits in both Houston and Austin! Please contact P. J. if you are interested in having her visit your school or speak to your group!

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10. Sliding Into Summer

The school year is winding down and summer is around 
the corner. Before the last bell rings, The Texas Sweethearts & Scoundrels want to thank you for another great school year. 
Thanks for inviting us into your classrooms and your continued support of our books. We look forward to the next school year! Have a fantastic summer.

We have a busy summer planned, including signings at the
American Library Association conference in Las Vegas, June 26 - July 1. We'd love to see you there.
ALA Schedule    

Don Tate
On Saturday, June 28, Don will sign It Jes' Happened: When Bill Traylor Started to Draw at the Lee and Low Books booth (#626) from 10 a.m. to 10:40

Immediately following at 11:00, he will sign The Cart That Carried Martin at the Charlesbridge Publishing booth (#557).

P.J. Hoover
 Saturday, June 28, 10:39-11:30 - Children's & Teen Author Speed Dating Event

Saturday, June 28, 1:00-3:30 - YALSA's Best Fiction for Young Adults Teen Feedback Session
Sunday, June 29, 8:30-10:00 - YALSA's Coffee Klatch
Sunday, June 29, 1:00-2:00 - Book Signing at Cbay 
Books Booth
Sunday, June 29, 3:00-4:00 - Book Signing at Tor/Macmillan Booth

Kari Holt 
 Kari will be signing ARCs of RHYME SCHEMER in the Chronicle booth on Saturday, June 28th, and she'll be participating in the Poetry Blast at 3pm on Sunday,  
June 29th.   

News and Updates 
  
Jessica Lee Anderson 
Jessica Lee Anderson had an incredible visit at the Alternative Learning Center! She's been working on a variety of projects and has four educational books for young readers in the pipeline.

KA Holt 
KA Holt is super excited to announce her latest book deal! From Publisher's Weekly:

"Karen Wojtyla at Margaret K. McElderry Books has acquired K.A. Holt's Red Moon Rising, pitched as Firefly meets Little House on the Prairie. In the novel, a feisty 13-year-old becomes an unwitting pawn in the standoff between her struggling colony and the enclave of aliens who may be something quite different than they seem. The book is slated for early 2016 publication. Ammi-Joan Paquette at Erin Murphy Literary Agency did the deal for North American rights."

This book will follow the release of HOUSE ARREST, a middle grade novel in verse releasing in Fall 2015 from Chronicle Books, and RHYME SCHEMER, also a middle grade novel in verse releasing from Chronicle Book on October 14th, 2014.


P.J. Hoover 
Thank you to all those who entered P. J. Hoover 's
TUT: THE STORY OF MY IMMORTAL LIFE ARC Giveaway!

It was wonderful to hear from so many of you with such enthusiasm! The winners of the ARCs are Keri Rabe (Round Rock ISD), Lorrie Roussin
(North East ISD), Jo Martin (New Caney ISD), Suzanne Webb (Houston ISD), and Cheryl Michulka (Pflugerville ISD).
    
Round Rock ISD Partners in Education Foundation sponsored a school visit for P. J. Hoover to visit the students of Grisham Middle School. Thank you to wonderful librarians Diane Hance for such amazing hospitality and a great event! 

   

P. J. still has limited availability in her May schedule for those looking for a last minute author visit. If you are considering a visit for the 2014-2015 school year, pleasecontact P. J. now. She would love to visit you school! P. J. speaks to students 3rd grade through high school

Don Tate
Awards
Recently, THE CART THAT CARRIED MARTIN, a book that Don illustrated for Eve Bunting (Charlesbridge), was named to the International Reading Association's Teacher's Choices 2014. 

In addition, HOPE'S GIFT, a book that he illustrated for Kelly Starling Lyons (Penguin), was named to The International Reading Association's Children's Choices 2014 list. Such an honor!

But that's not all. IT JES' HAPPENED, mentioned above, was a finalist for the Children's Crown Award.

Don will wind down the year this week in North Texas, where he will speak at Alice Ponder Elementary (Mansfield), Tarver Rendon (Mansfield) Elementary, and Walnut Glen Academy (Garland). 

School Visits for the Fall of 2014
As both an award-winning author and illustrator (and former book designer), Don is in the unique position to discuss all aspects of the book making process. Where do authors get their ideas? Why is revision necessary? And do illustrators also revise? These questions and many more are answered through a lively, interactive and entertaining presentation.  Contact Don personally at this link.

You can also contact him through his booking agent, Carmen Oliver, at  theBooking Biz!

Don Tate presented at Barnes & Noble, Garland, Texas, Educator Appreciation Day, April 2014.
 

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11. Celebrate the Texas Library Association Annual Conference with The Texas Sweethearts & Scoundrels!


The Texas Sweethearts & Scoundrels look forward to TLA all year, and it's finally here! We hope you all will come by our annual reception and say hi (and of course, maybe grab a cookie or two)!

Our complete schedule is below, including currently published book signings, ARC signings, and more. Please make sure to mention you read our newsletter when you come by! And be prepared to tell us whether you are a Sweetheart or a Scoundrel :)

***TLA Schedule***  

 
 

Monday, April 7th







Wednesday, April 9th
  • 10:15-11:00 - P. J. Hoover & Jessica Lee Anderson book signing - Booth 2522 (Overlooked Books booth)     

  • 10:15-11:00 - Don Tate -
    THE CART THAT CARRIED MARTIN signing - Author area

  • 11:00-12:00 - Texas Sweethearts & Scoundrels Annual Reception - Booth 2522 (Overlooked Books Booth)

  • Odd Girl In 11:00-12:00 - Jo Whittemore book signing - Booth 1443 (Book Festivals of Texas booth)

  • 2:00-3:00 - Don Tate -
    THE CART THAT CARRIED MARTIN signing - Charlesbridge Booth 2440

  • 3:00-4:00 - P. J. Hoover & Jessica Lee Anderson book signing - Booth 1443 (Book Festivals of Texas booth)

  • 4:00-5:00 - K. A. Holt -
    RHYME SCHEMER ARC signing - Author area









Thursday, April 10th
  • 9:00-10:00 - Don Tate book signing - Booth 2522
    (Overlooked Books booth)   

  • 9:30-10:00 - TT4L Event - P. J. Hoover, K. A. Holt

  • 10:45-11:15 - P. J. Hoover -
    TUT: THE STORY OF MY IMMORTAL LIFE ARC signing - Tor/Macmillan Booth 1448

  • 11:00-12:00 - Don Tate READ TO THE RHYTHM poster signing - Booth 1835 (iREAD booth)

  • 12:00-2:00 -YART Texas Tea Event - P. J. Hoover, K. A. Holt

 See you there!

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12. Spring Forward with The Texas Sweethearts & Scoundrels!

Please take a moment and hop over to the Texas Sweethearts & Scoundrels blog to find out all our recent news!


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13. Spring Forward with The Texas Sweethearts & Scoundrels!

Spring Forward with 
The Texas Sweethearts & Scoundrels! 
  
 Following a colder than normal winter, many Texans are experiencing cabin fever. But the Texas Sweethearts & Scoundrels are not waiting on Mother Nature to heat things up. Each and every one of us - P.J., Jessica, Kari, Jo, Jeanette, and Don -has a burning desire to inspire young children and teens to read more books. So we are saying goodbye to winter hibernation and turning up the heat on our already busy schedules, in order to reach more kids.

Here is a look at what is happening now, and what is ahead:
 
 
NEWS & UPDATES
 
NEWS FROM P.J. HOOVER 
 
March has been a busy and exciting month for P. J. Hoover. First, and foremost, P. J. is thrilled to reveal the cover for her brand new middle grade novel, TUT: THE STORY OF MY IMMORTAL LIFE (Starscape/Macmillan, September 16, 2014). TUT is the story of King Tut (yes, the boy king), but he's fourteen, immortal, and lives in modern-day Washington, D.C with his one-eyed cat, Horus. When his crazy uncle Horemheb shows up after being locked in a tomb for 3000 years, Tut enlists the help of the dorky kid from school who wants to be his best friend and the mysterious new girl who's got secrets of her own.
  
A Common Core guide for TUT: THE STORY OF MY IMMORTAL LIFE can be found here.
  
*****
  
P. J. braved ice and snow to spend a wonderful week in Mansfield, Texas visiting intermediate and middle schools. She visited four schools in all (T. A. Howard MS, Jobe MS, Wester MS, and Lillard Intermediate School), met some wonderful librarians and teachers, and had a fantastic time talking with kids about her books, her path to writing, and what it's like to be an author. P. J. still has room available during May if you're interested in a school visit for this school year, and she is also actively booking school visits and speaking events for next fall, so please contact P. J. if you think you might be interested in a school visit. More information on P. J.'s visits can be found on her visits page.
  
******
 
with Marsha Riti, Amy Farrier, Samantha Clark, Cynthia Leitich Smith, & Jeff Crosby Photo credit: Greg Leitich Smith
Just before spring break, P. J. spoke at the monthly Austin SCBWI meeting on the topic of World Building. She covered everything from Terry Pratchett to the Hobbit and loved the crowd that turned out for the event. Thank you! She's looking forward to attending the April monthly meeting featuring Austin librarians on a panel talking about school visits.
  
******
In other news, P. J. discovered West Texas over spring break on a family road trip visiting Fort Davis, Pecos, Carlsbad Caverns, and Roswell. Texas is an amazing state with so much to offer, and it's wonderful living here!
  
*****
  
NEWS FROM JESSICA LEE ANDERSON

Jessica Lee Anderson looks forward to visiting the Alternative Learning Center in Austin on April 17, 2014.  Jessica offers programs for all ages and still has availability this spring.  Don't hesitate to contact her for more information.  
  
***** 
  
NEWS FROM KARI ANNE ROY
 
Kari is excited to announce a redesign to her website: www.kaholt.com. Swing by and check it out! She's also thrilled to have been able to take sneak peek at the new discussion guide created for her forthcoming middle grade novel, RYHME SCHEMER (October 2014, Chronicle). The discussion guide and ARCs of RHYME SCHEMER will be available at the TLA conference next month. Woo!
 
 
NEWS FROM DON TATE

Photo by Frances Woolsey, Doss Elementary
Educator Open House and Presentation
Don will speak next month at Barnes & Noble in Garland, Texas (Firewheel Towne Center), as a part of their Educator Appreciation Day, on Saturday April 19. The event runs from 10 to 12 a.m. Educators will receive free materials for their classrooms and refreshments will be served. Be sure to register for prizes. In addition to a chance to win a NOOK and a $500 gift card from B&N, Don will give away one half-day school presentation. Yes, Don will present at your school at no cost! 
A book signing will follow the B&N event. See here for more information.

In addition, Don would like to visit schools on the two days leading up the the event. For that reason - and because of the short notice - Don is offering a very reduced honorarium for those days (half day rate for a full day visit). Please

Don's School Visits 

Don recently visited schools in the sandy town of Monahans, Texas. Yes, sand-and a lot of it! "The librarians there are super," Don said, "and the children are big readers. I was impressed."   

Don still has plenty of days open to book a school visit in April and May.

*******

NEWS FROM JEANETTE LARSON
 
Jeanette Larson is currently booking public library and school presentations for the summer. In addition to talking about writing and reading, summer programs can include a craft activity. Kids enjoy making hummingbird Mardi Gras-style masks or hummingbird feeders. Jeanette is also pleased to announce that she is moving to the Coastal Bend area, making it easier to visit libraries in the Rio Grande Valley and other South Texas locations. Contact Jeanette at [email protected].


FEATURED SWEETHEARTS!

 
 
Our Featured Sweetheart for this month is librarian Norma Chapa of Sunset Valley Elementary. Don Tate nominated Norma for no other reason than, "She has a kind spirit and I was touched by her heart and personal story."


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14. MARCH NEWS!

HAPPY SPRING FROM THE TEXAS SWEEETHEARTS & SCOUNDRELS!


Bluebonnets are blooming, birds are building their nests, and The Texas Sweethearts & Scoundrels have a case of spring fever with so much good news blossoming and many fun events to look forward to!

 Bluebonnet

While time seems to be zooming by like the hail in a recent thunderstorm, many of us are still scheduling school and library visits, as well as festival and event appearances. Please don't hesitate to contact us.
  
The Sweethearts are Region 13 Bound!  
  
 
  

The Texas Sweethearts & Scoundrels will be at the Region 13 Hill Country Library and Literacy Summit and it's sure to be a great pre-TLA event. We look forward to seeing many of you there!
  

Stay tuned for our upcoming TLA and IRA plans!

 
NEWS & UPDATES
  
  
 
GRAND PRAIRIE LIBRARY EVENT
On March 10, Jeanette Larson, Jessica Lee Anderson, K.A. Holt and PJ Hoover ventured deep in the heart of Texas to visit the Betty Warmack Branch Library in Grand Prairie for a fun celebration of children's and teen literature.

Grand Prairie Event
From left to right:  past Featured Sweetheart Karen Jensen, local author and friend, Krissi Dallas, Jessica Lee Anderson, K.A. Holt, and Jeanette Larson.
  
P.J. Hoover and Karen Jensen
  P.J. Hoover and Karen Jensen
  
  
SCBWI 
In late-February, the Austin SCBWI held their annual conference with an amazing faculty lineup.
  
At the conference, K.A. Holt was able to connect with two of her editors, Tamra Tuller (editor of a forthcoming middle grade novel) and Neal Porter (editor of BRAINS FOR LUNCH). 
  
  Tamra Tuller, K.A. Holt, Neal Porter
  
We think nothing says Texas hospitality quite like a  swag bag featuring Girl Scout cookies for the faculty members.  Yum!
  
  Swag Bag

 
SWEETHEART NEWS
Jessica Lee Anderson 
had a blast recently visiting Fulmore Middle School and spending time talking with librarian extraordinaire, Jo Patrick. She'll be concluding her first year of teaching a graduate children's literature writing course at St. Edward's University soon and couldn't be more proud of her students!


P. J. Hoover is thrilled to announce that Hungarian Rights for her middle grade trilogy beginning with The Emerald Tablet have sold to Fonix. Nogicals Rule!


P. J. also had a blast presenting "My Life as Hercules" (her hero's journey presentation) at the Westbranch location of the Austin Public Library over Spring Break.


Don Tate thanks the Texas Book Festival, University of Texas Pan American, FESTIVA, and H-E-B stores, for allowing him to put nearly 600 copies of his books in the hands of kids who might not otherwise own any.

 
  
We're beyond thrilled to announce Don is the recipient of an Ezra Jack Keats New Writers Honor! He will accept his award next month at the Fay B. Kaigler Children's Book Festival (http://www.usm.edu/childrens-book-festival).
    
Jeanette Larson will be a featured author at the Book and Author Luncheon benefiting New Braunfels Public Library Foundation on Thursday, April 18th. Tickets are available through the library, http://www.nbtexas.org.

Hummingbirds: Facts and Folklore from the Americas was selected as the featured book for a Pflugerville Pfamily Book Club. Jeanette will meet with parents and kids to talk about writing the book, pourquoi stories, and birding on April 9.
 
K.A. Holt has been enjoying visiting elementary and middle schools across central Texas, and is looking forward to more school visits in April. If there's anything she learns from visiting so many students it's that kids are the best zombie haiku poets in the world!
  
    
Many thanks to the talented Emma Virján for her beautiful graphic designs!  Don't miss the opportunity to check out her newest illustrations: www.emmavirjan.com
  
  
You can read about our latest Featured Sweethearts who are making a different in their communities, Laura Stiles, here, and Renee DeHoyos, here.
Please stop by the blog and read about the amazing things they have to say about the world of kidlit! 

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15. Latest News from The Texas Sweethearts & Scoundrels

Grand Prairie, TX, Here We Come!  
  
The Texas Sweethearts & Scoundrels are coming to the Betty Warmack Branch Library in Grand Prairie, TX. Please join  
P. J. Hoover, Jessica Lee Anderson, K. A. Holt, and  
Jeanette Larson on Sunday, March 10th at 3:00 pm for an author panel and presentation. We look forward to seeing you there!  
  Grand Prairie Event Poster
NEWS & UPDATES
 
The Texas Sweethearts & Scoundrels will be at the Region 13 Hill Country Library and Literacy Summit and it's sure to be a great pre-TLA event. We'll see you there.

During the month of January, P. J. Hoover enjoyed visiting both Taylor Middle School in Taylor, TX and Curtis Middle School in Allen, TX. P. J. spoke with 6th and 7th graders about mythology, writing, and the Hero's Journey we are all on. Thank you, both Taylor MS and Curtis MS for the wonderful hospitality. 
   
Jo Whittemore spoke on a panel for tweens at the Montgomery County Book Festival and later signed books, shirts, a pizza box and a cookie package. Next time, she'll bring extra bookmarks! 

 



Here's a link to the entire recap of the visit.
Don's schedule for the month of May is wide open. He will be visiting schools in the Dallas area on Thursday, May 2nd, and in the Houston area on May 9th and 10th. Don welcomes opportunities to visit schools near those dates. Please see his website for more information about school visits. http://dontate.com/school-visits, or contact him directly at tate2 at aol dot com.
 
Jeanette Larson will be speaking to several groups of Girl Scouts and 4-H members in March and April. She recently spoke to a group of adults in the Hays County Master Naturalist group. Jeanette enjoys talking about all things hummingbird so consider inviting her to your next program or event.

Even if you are not in the Austin area, Jeanette may be coming to your neck of the woods and can coordinate a program while she is in the area.

Jessica Lee Anderson had an amazing time at the Young Adult Keller Book Festival, and she is looking forward to several school visits this spring. She is still booking spring visits, so please visit
her website for more information:
Emma Virján has a new website, showcasing some of her latest illustrations, and invites you to take a look: www.emmavirjan.com
 
 
You can read about
Kay Honeyman, debut author and educator here and librarian
Leese Cole, here.
Please stop by the blog and read about the amazing things they have to say about the world of kidlit! 
UPCOMING EVENTS    

Jeanette Larson 
March 2 Jeanette will be a featured author at the Take 190 West Fest in Killeen, TX. 

P. J. Hoover 
On Monday, March 11th, at 6:30 pm, P. J. Hoover will be speaking on the publishing journey for her upcoming debut YA novel, SOLSTICE. The event will be held at the Westbank Branch of the Austin Public Library and is open to the public. 

Kari Holt 
Kari is excited to spend the first few days of March in Rockdale, TX as part of the Tejas Book Festival. With a string of school visits on the calendar and some time set aside for writing, Kari is looking forward to a busy and productive springtime!  
SCHOOL VISITS!   
   
Interested in an author visit? The Texas Sweethearts & Scoundrels would love to visit your school. We understand that library budgets are tight, so our honorariums are flexible and reasonable, and visits can often be combined with other trips to your area.  

DON TATE
  
Don looks forward to sharing with students his story about how he became a published author. And he draws! Lots of drawing! Contact him soon as his schedule is filling up.  http://dontate.com/contact/     
JEANETTE LARSON
Jeanette recently added to her experience for school presentations by watching bird banders (have you ever been up close to the south end of a north bound bird?). Contact Jeanette about speaking at your school or library event at [email protected].
 
K. A. HOLT
Kari enjoys letting students in on a few of her writing secrets - authors are just regular people, and just because you write about zombies and chupacabras doesn't mean you can't write poetry. Contact [email protected] to bring Kari to your school!

P. J. HOOVER
Creating new worlds, mythology, and monsters is what P. J. Hoover loves to talk about the most. As a former Electrical Engineer, P. J. will share with students her transition to writing, inspirations for her books, and tips that will help even the most reluctant kids believe being a writer is possible. P. J. also partners with Jessica Lee Anderson for school visits. Contact P. J. at www.pjhoover.com/contact.php
   
JESSICA LEE ANDERSON
Jessica Lee Andersonis a certified teacher and loves sharing her journey from struggling writer to published author. She is happy to customize any presentation. Jessica also pairs with P. J. Hoover to provide exciting, interactive programs. Contact her at jessicaleeanderson.com/contact.php.

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16. Latest News: CBS Films acquires Marie Lu's LEGEND


CBS Films has acquired screen rights to Marie Lu's exciting dystopian novel, LEGEND.  Twilight Saga producers Marty Bowen and Wyck Godfrey will produce through their Temple Hill banner. The first book will be published this November by Penguin Group. (Click here to read more.)

A bit about LEGEND:
What was once the western United States is now home to the Republic, a nation perpetually at war with its neighbors. Born into an elite family in one of the Republic's wealthiest districts, fifteen-year-old June is a prodigy being groomed for success in the Republic's highest military circles. Born into the slums, fifteen-year-old Day is the country's most wanted criminal. But his motives may not be as malicious as they seem.

From very different worlds, June and Day have no reason to cross paths - until the day June's brother, Metias, is murdered and Day becomes the prime suspect. Caught in the ultimate game of cat and mouse, Day is in a race for his family's survival, while June seeks to avenge Metias's death. But in a shocking turn of events, the two uncover the truth of what has really brought them together, and the sinister lengths their country will go to keep its secrets.

LEGEND will appear on bookstore shelves November 29, 2011. Until then, head on over to the LEGEND Facebook Page to discuss the book, enter contests, read excerpts and quotes, and keep updated on all the latest film news.

We'll keep you updated here too, so stay tuned!

Visit Marie Lu's official website for more info: http://marielu.org/

 

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