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1. I have proof! Dragons ARE Real!

Breaking News! Proof that Dragons are indeed REAL!

Maybe this news prompted you to drop your sandwich or even roll your eyes with disbelief….but I am here to tell you; Dragons are Real! How do I know? I have proof. In fact, I have MORE than proof! As a child I had a Dragon friend for two whole summers in Gotland, Sweden.

I shared this story with Rocco during an interview at the wonderful KitLit TV.


My newest book, Dragons are Real  tells this story in vibrant color and I am so honored that I was able to team up with reknown children’s book illustrator, .

Michael Welply was born in London, England ad raised in Winnipeg, Canada. He studied art in Winnipeg and Paris. He has illustrated over 80 books in Europe and in North America ranging from historical work to fantasy and fairy tales. He has two grown children, three grandchildren and currently lives in central France with his wife. It was Michael’s talent and vision that allowed us to accurately (and magically) capture what my brother and I experienced with our dragon friend for two summers.
Michael Welply

Dragons are real
SO basically what I am trying to tell everyone is that all of the fairy tales, myths and legends that have been told about dragons over the years are WRONG!

Dragons are not only Real, they are different than you’ve ever imagined.

Dragons are Real
This book isn’t for everyone. It’s only for those BRAVE enough to go looking for dragons in the most usual of places.

Once you find your nearest dragon you’ll need to know a few basic skills.

Are You:
 – Good at finding hidden things, like dragons in disguise ?
 –  Wanting a best friend who will take you for rides on their back ? OK we missed
      an important detail….riding on their backs while flying through the air ?
 – Good at telling jokes and riddles ?
 – Good at roasting hot dogs and marshmallows in a constant stream of fire. Don’t
     worry no fire protective gear needed.
 –  Willing to be a dance partner ?
 – Willing to listen and share poetry, especially rhymes ?
 – Are you clever enough to read a Dragon’s secret message? And then of course
     be able to send one back your local and friendly dragon ? Just a reminder that
     Dragon’s don’t text. They love to send secret messages.
If you’ve said a loud “YES” to even half of the above questions, chances are this book is just right for YOU!

As readers turn the pages and learn the truth about Dragons, they will see that the fiercest beasts in known history can actually be the best of friends. It’s a lesson in finding companionship in the most unusual of places. Dragons are Real is a magical book filled with stunning illustrations and hints that dragon are indeed all around us :)

Dragons are Real

Dragons are Real is now available for purchase on both Amazon and Gumroad. We are also offering a special free bonus gift of a Dragons Are Real Inspiration Activity Guide when you purchase your copy of this enchanting picture book.

I also received exceptionally exciting news a few weeks ago and keeping the news of this huge honor has been hard! Here is the email that popped into my inbox that had me doing the Happy Dance for weeks:

Hi Valarie,
 
I hope you are well. I’m following up to let you know that your review for “Dragons are Real” was selected by our Indie Editors to be featured in Kirkus Reviews 7/1 Issue. Congratulations! Your review will appear as one of about 35 reviews in  the Indie section of the 7/1 Kirkus Reviews magazine which is sent out to over 5,200 industry professionals (librarians, publishers, agents, etc.) Less than 10% of our Indie reviews are chosen for this, so it’s a great honor. The digital version of this issue will be available for me to send to you on July 5th, and the print version will be available in a week or so after that.
 
 
All the best & congratulations again,
 
Crystal Timbeross

Client Promotions & Advertising Associate 

KIRKUS REVIEWS |  KIRKUS MEDIA LLC
Dragons are Real
To everyone who helped make this book not only a huge success, but let the story of Dragons among us be told, THANK YOU!

The post I have proof! Dragons ARE Real! appeared first on Jump Into A Book.

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2. Picture Book Study: This Orq. (He Cave Boy.) by David Elliott and Lori Nichols

This is a children’s picture book structure break down for This Orq. (He Cave Boy.) by David Elliott and Lori Nichols. This breakdown will contain spoilers.…

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3. What People are Saying About Dee and Deb Off They Go ~ Kindergarten First Day Jitters


What people are saying....

An adorable story of twin sisters and their first day of kindergarten. They are in separate classrooms and are concerned who they will have to share their secrets and to play with. Dee meets a girl named Casey in her class, and after a fun day with her, shares with Deb about her day and learns about Deb's day as well.

There are no more than one or two sentences on each page, which makes for easy reading. The illustrations are bright and beautiful. I hope the author will share more of Dee and Deb's adventures with us in the future. ~ Teresa Kander, Amazon reviewer

~~~~~~~~~~

Award-winning author Donna M. McDine has written an adorable picture book about the first day of kindergarten. She uses her first hand knowledge (having a twin sister of her own) to share what it might be like for separated twins on the first day of kindergarten. 

Many kids have fears regarding the first day of school, but this first day of school is especially worrisome for twins Dee and Deb. 

Deb and Dee head off for their first day of kindergarten together, but become separated when Dee goes to the K1 classroom and Deb goes to K2.

The rest of the book centers on Dee and her fears of being lost and alone without her twin sister for back up. But as usually is the case, Dee makes a friend, and the day flies by. Reunited at the end of the school day, Dee and Deb have so much more to talk about with their own accounts and experience of the day. And Dee can hardly wait for tomorrow.

The colorful and contagious illustrations are provided by Jack Foster.

<!--[if gte mso 9]> Normal 0 false false false EN-US JA X-NONE <![endif]-->
He shows not just the similarities between the twins (their too-cute pigtails and matching outfits), but also their differences (Dee and Deb must be fraternal twins.) 

A truly entertaining book for any child embarking on the journey to kindergarten. ~ Suzanne Puvis, author of Destined for Deception

Thank you Teresa and Suzanne.... I appreciate your time and interest! 

~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~

Best wishes,
Donna M. McDine
Multi Award-winning Children's Author

Ignite curiosity in your child through reading!

Connect with

Dee and Deb Off They Go Kindergarten First Day Jitters ~ December 2015 ~ Guardian Angel Publishing, Inc.

A Sandy Grave ~ January 2014 ~ Guardian Angel Publishing, Inc. ~ 2014 Purple Dragonfly 1st Place Picture Books 6+, Story Monster Approved, Beach Book Festival Honorable Mention 2014, Reader's Favorite Five Star Review

Powder Monkey ~ May 2013 ~ Guardian Angel Publishing, Inc. ~ 2015 Purple Dragonfly Book Award Historical Fiction 1st Place, Story Monster Approved and Reader's Favorite Five Star Review

Hockey Agony ~ January 2013 ~ Guardian Angel Publishing, Inc. ~ 2015 Purple Dragonfly Book Award Honorable Mention Picture Books 6+, New England Book Festival Honorable Mention 2014, Story Monster Approved and Reader's Favorite Five Star Review

The Golden Pathway ~ August 2010 ~ Guardian Angel Publishing, Inc. ~ Literary Classics Silver Award and Seal of Approval, Readers Favorite 2012 International Book Awards Honorable Mention and Dan Poynter's Global e-Book Awards Finalist

0 Comments on What People are Saying About Dee and Deb Off They Go ~ Kindergarten First Day Jitters as of 1/1/1900
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4. Dee and Deb Off They Go ~ Share Their Adventures

Join Dee and Deb as they share where they have visited throughout the United States since their debut December 2015...

~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~

Best wishes,
Donna M. McDine
Multi Award-winning Children's Author

Ignite curiosity in your child through reading!

Connect with

Dee and Deb Off They Go Kindergarten First Day Jitters ~ December 2015 ~ Guardian Angel Publishing, Inc.

A Sandy Grave ~ January 2014 ~ Guardian Angel Publishing, Inc. ~ 2014 Purple Dragonfly 1st Place Picture Books 6+, Story Monster Approved, Beach Book Festival Honorable Mention 2014, Reader's Favorite Five Star Review

Powder Monkey ~ May 2013 ~ Guardian Angel Publishing, Inc. ~ 2015 Purple Dragonfly Book Award Historical Fiction 1st Place, Story Monster Approved and Reader's Favorite Five Star Review

Hockey Agony ~ January 2013 ~ Guardian Angel Publishing, Inc. ~ 2015 Purple Dragonfly Book Award Honorable Mention Picture Books 6+, New England Book Festival Honorable Mention 2014, Story Monster Approved and Reader's Favorite Five Star Review

The Golden Pathway ~ August 2010 ~ Guardian Angel Publishing, Inc.
~ Literary Classics Silver Award and Seal of Approval, Readers Favorite 2012 International Book Awards Honorable Mention and Dan Poynter's Global e-Book Awards Finalist

0 Comments on Dee and Deb Off They Go ~ Share Their Adventures as of 1/30/2016 11:26:00 PM
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5. Picture Book Study: Meg Goldberg on Parade by Andria Warmflash Rosenbaum and Christopher Lyles

This is a children’s picture book structure break down for Meg Goldberg on Parade by Andria Warmflash Rosenbaum and Christopher Lyles. This breakdown will contain…

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6. Stocking Stuffer Suggestions # 3 – Perennial Christmas Crackers

So, you’re torn between traditional sensible titles and contemporary crazy reads to fill your under 12 year-olds’ stockings. Why not splash out on both and please everyone. Here are some more stocking stuffers to complement the rollicking fun ones Romi featured in her Christmas inspired picture book round up. Time to get your Santa on. […]

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7. #pblitreview - Dee and Deb Off They Go Kindegarten First Day Jitters


I'm delighted to share an early #pblitreview...

Picture Book Review by Susan J. Berger

“What a delightful book! The first sentence, Dee and Deb, twin sisters, were always together – Crib mates to playmates is great! The exploration of the awful "I'm alone in Kindergarten" feeling makes this a great book for pre-schoolers and about-to-be kindergarten kids.

<!--[if gte mso 9]> Normal 0 false false false EN-US JA X-NONE <![endif]-->
Jack Foster's colorful illustrations are a perfect compliment to the text.” Susan J. Berger, children’s author of Earthquake

Visit Susan at:

Susan J. Berger or Susan B. James

Thanks a bunch Susan for your heartfelt review of my latest children's book, Dee and Deb Off They Go Kindergarten First Day Jitters!!!!!


Wishing you daily inspiration!

~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~

Best wishes,
Donna M. McDine
Multi Award-winning Children's Author

Ignite curiosity in your child through reading!

Connect with

Dee and Deb Off They Go Kindergarten First Day Jitters ~ December 2015 ~ Guardian Angel Publishing, Inc.

A Sandy Grave ~ January 2014 ~ Guardian Angel Publishing, Inc. ~ 2014 Purple Dragonfly 1st Place Picture Books 6+, Story Monster Approved, Beach Book Festival Honorable Mention 2014, Reader's Favorite Five Star Review

Powder Monkey ~ May 2013 ~ Guardian Angel Publishing, Inc. ~ 2015 Purple Dragonfly Book Award Historical Fiction 1st Place, Story Monster Approved and Reader's Favorite Five Star Review

Hockey Agony ~ January 2013 ~ Guardian Angel Publishing, Inc. ~ 2015 Purple Dragonfly Book Award Honorable Mention Picture Books 6+, New England Book Festival Honorable Mention 2014, Story Monster Approved and Reader's Favorite Five Star Review

The Golden Pathway ~ August 2010 ~ Guardian Angel Publishing, Inc. ~ Literary Classics Silver Award and Seal of Approval, Readers Favorite 2012 International Book Awards Honorable Mention and Dan Poynter's Global e-Book Awards Finalist

0 Comments on #pblitreview - Dee and Deb Off They Go Kindegarten First Day Jitters as of 11/13/2015 6:56:00 AM
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8. Stocking Stuffer Suggestion # 2

Do you bite off more than you can chew? One’s tendency for this disparity amplifies at Christmas time, at least, mine does. However, it’s not just at the festive table that choice and over-indulgence can be paralysing. The lead-up to my favourite time of the year is where many choke. The solution? Planning. Break needs, […]

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9. Let's Switch Things Up... with a #KidLit Back Cover Reveal

I thought I'd change things up a bit and celebrate the back cover reveal of my latest children's picture book...

Dee and Deb Off They Go Kindergarten First Day Jitters


What do you think?

The publication date is December 1, 2015, just in time for the 2015 Holiday Season!

Interested?

Cruise on over to my website... I'm taking pre-orders now!

Thanks for your time and interest!

Wishing you an inspirational day!

~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~

Best wishes,
Donna M. McDine
Multi Award-winning Children's Author

Ignite curiosity in your child through reading!

Connect with

Dee and Deb Off They Go Kindergarten First Day Jitters ~ December 2015 ~ Guardian Angel Publishing, Inc. ~ Pre-Orders

A Sandy Grave ~ January 2014 ~ Guardian Angel Publishing, Inc. ~ 2014 Purple Dragonfly 1st Place Picture Books 6+, Story Monster Approved, Beach Book Festival Honorable Mention 2014, Reader's Favorite Five Star Review

Powder Monkey ~ May 2013 ~ Guardian Angel Publishing, Inc. ~ 2015 Purple Dragonfly Book Award Historical Fiction 1st Place, Story Monster Approved and Reader's Favorite Five Star Review

Hockey Agony ~ January 2013 ~ Guardian Angel Publishing, Inc. ~ 2015 Purple Dragonfly Book Award Honorable Mention Picture Books 6+, New England Book Festival Honorable Mention 2014, Story Monster Approved and Reader's Favorite Five Star Review

The Golden Pathway ~ August 2010 ~ Guardian Angel Publishing, Inc. ~ Literary Classics Silver Award and Seal of Approval, Readers Favorite 2012 International Book Awards Honorable Mention and Dan Poynter's Global e-Book Awards Finalist

0 Comments on Let's Switch Things Up... with a #KidLit Back Cover Reveal as of 1/1/1900
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10. Review – The Boy Who Loved The Moon

Italian cartoonist and filmmaker, Rino Alaimo describes himself as a dreamer who never gives up – no matter the odds. It is a mindset many prescribe to, me included and often with devastatingly (one always hopes, at least) great outcomes. Granted, great outcomes can take a while to harness successfully, as The Boy Who Loved […]

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11. An Incredible Signature: Thanks, Marcia and Sergio!

As writers, we put our books out into the world, and they take on a life of their own, apart from us. But sometimes, we get an echo back about what the book is doing, who is reading it and how they are affected. This week, I had one of those incredible, amazing and powerful moments.

Abayomi, the Brazilian Puma

Abayomi, the Brazilian Puma in English. Named an NSTA Outstanding Science Trade Book 2015. | DarcyPattison.com Brazilian/Portuguese version of Abayomi. Released in Brazil Summer 2015. | Fiction Notes by Darcy Pattison

When I worked on the story of an orphaned puma cub from Brazil, the scientists involved were incredibly generous with their time and information. Dr. Marcia Goncalves Rodrigues and Sergio A.P. Ferreira made this book possible. With the publication of the Brazilian translation, they are able to go into the schools with Project Abayomi and do education of teachers and students. Recently, over 500 teachers listened the story of the plight of pumas and other wildlife in urban areas of Brazil.

That’s exciting news, for sure. To see a book travel to a different country and start to make a difference is amazing.

And then, I received this special version of the Portuguese version of the book. What’s so special about it? Why am I grinning so crazily?

Abayomi, the Brazilian Puma, personalized with a signature from the puma himself. | DarcyPattison.com
This book was signed by Abayomi himself. That’s his paw print. Thanks, Marcia and Sergio for allowing me to be part of Abayomi’s story.



Because Abayomi himself signed this book. When the puma was receiving a regular medical checkup, Sergio inked his paw and added his paw print to my book. This is one of those teary moments when you realize that a book isn’t JUST a book. It’s an idea. Pumas face very real dangers from loss of habitat and urban encroachment on their habitat. It’a a small thing to write a book; but a small book can have a huge impact. Thanks, Marcia and Sergio for allowing me the privilege of having a small part in Abayomi’s story. It’s been incredible.

Read More about the Brazilian Corridor Project for Pumas

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12. Checklist for Self-publishing a Children’s Picture Book


The Aliens Inc, Chapter Book Series

Try Book 1 for Free



Assumption. I am assuming here that you’ve written a fantastic children’s picture book and the illustrations you’ve done or hired done are amazing. You’ve also assembled an amazing book using InDesign (recommended) or other software. This checklist takes up the process at the point where you have the files ready to upload. The checklist is useful whether you are producing a print book or an ebook, although some items may not apply in one or the other cases.
RedCover250x400-72

Double-Check the Book’s Production

Front Cover
Double-check spelling of everything.
Color reproduction of the art.

Back cover
Double-check spelling of everything.
Blurbs, quote or promo copy – do you have all the marketing material on the back cover that is needed? Any recent review quotes to add?

Copyright page
(Assumption: you want to sell this book to school libraries. If you only want to sell it as an ebook, then you only need to check the copyright date, since you probably won’t use an ISBN.)
Copyright date correct?
ISBN correct (if used)?
CIP correct? Are you using Publisher’s Cataloging-in-Publication data, which helps librarians catalog your book?

Interior
Check spelling, grammar and punctuation on every page.
Check position and reproduction of art on every page.
(Why are there 32 pages listed?)

  • p. 1____Text _____Art
  • p. 2-3____Text _____Art
  • p. 4-5____Text _____Art
  • p. 6-7____Text _____Art
  • p. 8-9____Text _____Art
  • p. 10-11____Text _____Art
  • p. 12-13____Text _____Art
  • p. 14-15____Text _____Art
  • p. 16-17____Text _____Art
  • p. 18-19____Text _____Art
  • p. 20-21____Text _____Art
  • p. 22-23____Text _____Art
  • p. 24-25____Text _____Art
  • p. 26-27____Text _____Art
  • p. 28-29____Text _____Art
  • p. 30-31____Text _____Art
  • p. 32____Text _____Art

Marketing and Metadata Materials

Before you upload files, you’ll need your marketing material ready. I usually create a one-page Sell Sheet that includes the following information.

Exact Title:
Subtitle:
Series Name and Volume of this book:
ISBN, ASIN, and price for each format:

Description
The description is the time to hook your reader. The first 50 characters should give enough information to interest a reader in your book. Limited html is allowed on many platforms, so I often prepare two versions, one plain text and one marked up for html. For Kindle, you have 4000 characters–which is a lot. Use a word processor that counts the number of characters and use all of this valuable real estate.

Categories
Depending on the platform used, you may be asked to provide two or three categories. You can refer to the BISAC categories as a guidelines, but each platform may have its own quirks for this.

1.
2.
3.

Keywords
To help the book buyer find your book, most platforms allow you to insert from 5-7 keywords. You should have these ready; see Amazon’s advice on keywords.

1.
2.
3.
4.
5.
6.
7.

Age Levels
Often a platform will allow you to specify the age range for the book’s audience. Don’t try to cover every age (ages 1-15). Instead, choose a 3-4 year range. Typical ranges are ages 4-8, ages 5-8, ages 6-8, ages 8-12, ages 9-12, ages 12-15, and so on.

File Size
If you plan to publish the ebook on Kindle, you should know the file size. Full color children’s picture books are often 4-8 MGs of data. Because Kindle charges a delivery fee of $0.15 in the US, you’ll want to know this to decide on pricing.

Price for Different Formats
If you upload to multiple platforms, you’ll likely want to be sure to keep the data the same across them. It helps to write out your prices; be sure to update this data whenever you change it on one platform.

Cover Files
While I’m preparing marketing materials, I also like to create multiple versions of my cover files. I label them with the size and the resolution, so it’s easy to find later. Here are typical sizes I create for a square picture book cover, 8.5″ x 8.5″ It’s simple to create multiple files when the Photoshop program is already open, and saves me time later. Usually, I create jpeg files, but sometimes, I’ll repeat for .png files.

  • Cover-2500×2500-300.jpg (This means the cover is 2500 px by 2500 px at 300 dpi.)
  • Cover-2500×2500-150.jpg (This means the cover is 2500 px by 2500 px at 150 dpi. Some like to also prepare files at 96 dpi or 72 dpi for use on the web.)
  • Cover-1000×1000-300.jpg
  • Cover-1000×1000-150.jpg
  • Cover-500×500-300.jpg
  • Cover-500×500-150.jpg
  • Cover-250×250-300.jpg
  • Cover-250×250-150.jpg

With the Sell Sheet complete, and the books cover and interior files ready to go, it’s time to upload. Good luck with your book!

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13. Double Dipping – Blue Cats and Purple Elephants

Recently I looked at picture books where bedtime procrastination prevails. However what about the times when your child is desperate for sleep but harbours worries too numerous to overcome? Their efforts meet with repeated defeat. New concerns infest their sleep-deprived psyches until they convince themselves they are unable to sleep no matter what. This perpetuating […]

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14. Doodles and Drafts – Getting silly with Gregg Dreise

As one strolls about this wondrous planet, one encounters a variety of individuals who may astound, influence, enrich, or even, deplete you. Not everyone we meet ends up a friend. Life is often an ongoing cycle of trials and consequences. How we survive and interpret the progression of life builds character and shapes us as […]

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15. KidLit Book Review - Helping Herbie Hedgehog by Melissa Abramovitz

















Title: Helping Herbie Hedgehog
Written by: Melissa Abramovitz
Illustrated by: Robert Lee Beers
Publisher: Guardian Angel Publishing, Inc.
Published: (February 15, 2015)
Paperback: 16 pages
ISBN-10: 1616336129
ISBN-13: 978-1616336127

  

I have never been one to judge a book by its cover, but today is the day my approach has changed. The ingenious cover with Herbie Hedgehog front and center amongst his toys is certainly intriguing.

The reader will squeal with delight as they take the hysterical journey with Herbie Hedgehog. With good intentions throughout his day, Herbie Hedgehog makes silly choices along the way with each task. Will he accomplish what he sets out to do or will his day end with chaos?

Come along on the silliest of adventures through children’s author, Melissa Abramovitz master storytelling in rhyme and clever technique of teaching children how to think analytically. I cannot say enough about Robert Lee Beers’ illustrations… remarkable, clever, funny, vibrant and unique. The author and illustrator have created a go to book for years to come and one that will not soon be forgotten.

Visit the author:

www.melissaabramovitz.com

~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~

Best wishes,
Donna M. McDine
Multi Award-winning Children's Author

Ignite curiosity in your child through reading!

Connect with

A Sandy Grave ~ January 2014 ~ Guardian Angel Publishing, Inc. ~ 2014 Purple Dragonfly 1st Place Picture Books 6+, Story Monster Approved, Beach Book Festival Honorable Mention 2014, Reader's Favorite Five Star Review

Powder Monkey ~ May 2013 ~ Guardian Angel Publishing, Inc. ~ Story Monster Approved and Reader's Favorite Five Star Review

Hockey Agony ~ January 2013 ~ Guardian Angel Publishing, Inc. ~ New England Book Festival Honorable Mention 2014, Story Monster Approved and Reader's Favorite Five Star Review

The Golden Pathway ~ August 2010 ~ Guardian Angel Publishing, Inc. ~ Literary Classics Silver Award and Seal of Approval, Readers Favorite 2012 International Book Awards Honorable Mention and Dan Poynter's Global e-Book Awards Finalist

0 Comments on KidLit Book Review - Helping Herbie Hedgehog by Melissa Abramovitz as of 3/17/2015 7:38:00 AM
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16. Artist Agreement Signed for Dee and Deb, Off They Go - Kindergarten First Day Jitters

Lovely note from illustrator, Jack Foster! 
Thanks Jack! 
It's an honor to have you illustrate my latest book!

Illustrator, Jack Foster and I had the lovely opportunity to meet in-person at the Guardian Angel Publishing gathering in St. Louis the fall of 2010. I can hardly believe so much time has gone by!

When the opportunity came along with my fifth children's book and it was time to submit my illustrator choices to GAP, Jack Foster was my number one choice. His illustrating style is quite unique. Going away from my four early reader picture books, to a picture book for kindergarten and below I knew immediately Jack was the illustrator I wanted. Lucky for me, Jack accepted the assignment. Thanks a bunch, Jack!

I can hardly wait to see this story come to life! It's a tribute to my lovely fraternal twin sister and our first day of kindergarten when we were separated for the first time.

Enjoy some of Jack's illustrations at... http://jacktoon.blogspot.com/

Thanks for visiting!

~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~

Best wishes,
Donna M. McDine
Multi Award-winning Children's Author

Ignite curiosity in your child through reading!

Connect with

A Sandy Grave ~ January 2014 ~ Guardian Angel Publishing, Inc. ~ 2014 Purple Dragonfly 1st Place Picture Books 6+, Story Monster Approved, Beach Book Festival Honorable Mention 2014, Reader's Favorite Five Star Review

Powder Monkey ~ May 2013 ~ Guardian Angel Publishing, Inc. ~ Story Monster Approved and Reader's Favorite Five Star Review

Hockey Agony ~ January 2013 ~ Guardian Angel Publishing, Inc. ~ New England Book Festival Honorable Mention 2014, Story Monster Approved and Reader's Favorite Five Star Review

The Golden Pathway ~ August 2010 ~ Guardian Angel Publishing, Inc. ~ Literary Classics Silver Award and Seal of Approval, Readers Favorite 2012 International Book Awards Honorable Mention and Dan Poynter's Global e-Book Awards Finalist

0 Comments on Artist Agreement Signed for Dee and Deb, Off They Go - Kindergarten First Day Jitters as of 3/2/2015 9:20:00 AM
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17. Children's Picture Book Review: Olive and the Great Flood by Connie Arnold




Title: Olive and the Great Flood
Author: Connie Arnold
Illustrator: Kathleen Bullock
Publisher: Guardian Angel Publishing, Inc.
Published: January 15, 2015
ISBN-10: 1616335920
ISBN-13: 978-1616335922
Paperback: 20 pages

 Connie Arnold takes the reader on a splendid rendition of Noah’s Ark told through the eyes of Olive, the dove. Arnold’s expert knack of rhyme has a steady flow throughout Olive and the Great Flood, making the old age bible story come to life. Topped off with realistic illustrations created by Kathleen Bullock, the reader will feel part of the story. A new classic has been born.

Learn more about Connie Arnold’s intriguing writing world at…

http://www.conniearnold.webs.comhttp://conniearnold.blogspot.comhttp://www.childrenbooks.webs.com
http://childrensauthorconniearnold.blogspot.com

~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~

Best wishes,
Donna M. McDine
Multi Award-winning Children's Author

Ignite curiosity in your child through reading!

Connect with
A Sandy Grave ~ January 2014 ~ Guardian Angel Publishing, Inc. ~ 2014 Purple Dragonfly 1st Place Picture Books 6+, Story Monster Approved, Beach Book Festival Honorable Mention 2014, Reader's Favorite Five Star Review

Powder Monkey ~ May 2013 ~ Guardian Angel Publishing, Inc. ~ Story Monster Approved and Reader's Favorite Five Star Review

Hockey Agony ~ January 2013 ~ Guardian Angel Publishing, Inc. ~ New England Book Festival Honorable Mention 2014, Story Monster Approved and Reader's Favorite Five Star Review

The Golden Pathway ~ August 2010 ~ Guardian Angel Publishing, Inc.
~ Literary Classics Silver Award and Seal of Approval, Readers Favorite 2012 International Book Awards Honorable Mention and Dan Poynter's Global e-Book Awards Finalist

0 Comments on Children's Picture Book Review: Olive and the Great Flood by Connie Arnold as of 2/26/2015 9:08:00 AM
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18. Review – Thelma the Unicorn

We’re all familiar with the theme of acceptance and being content with whom and what we are. It’s been relayed a thousand ways, right. But have you ever discovered self-worth with the aid of a carrot? Thelma has.  Aaron Blabey’s dazzling new picture book, Thelma the Unicorn not only deals with this theme in a […]

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19. KidLit Book Review ~ Otis, Jerome & Otis O. Kay



  • Written by: B. Emmett Jackson
  • Illustrated by: David Steenhard
  • Hardcover:
  • ISBN-10: 1495133362
  • ISBN-13: 978-1495133367

B. Emmett Jackson’s debut children’s book Oscar, Jerome & Otis O. Kay is a pure delight. This heartwarming story of three unlikely friends and how they overcome each one’s adversity will have the reader rejoicing. For these three individuals have not allowed the expectations of society to define them.

B. Emmett Jackson has nailed it from the onset. I for one would like to see the adventures of Oscar, Jerome & Otis O. Kay to continue.

David Steenhard’s alluring illustrations have the story and character’s leaping from the pages.

Learn more about the author at www.otiskaybooks.com.

Purchase at Amazon...



~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~

Best wishes,
Donna M. McDine
Multi Award-winning Children's Author

Ignite curiosity in your child through reading!

Connect with

A Sandy Grave ~ January 2014 ~ Guardian Angel Publishing, Inc. ~ 2014 Purple Dragonfly 1st Place Picture Books 6+, Story Monster Approved, Beach Book Festival Honorable Mention 2014, Reader's Favorite Five Star Review

Powder Monkey ~ May 2013 ~ Guardian Angel Publishing, Inc. ~ Story Monster Approved and Reader's Favorite Five Star Review

Hockey Agony ~ January 2013 ~ Guardian Angel Publishing, Inc. ~ Story Monster Approved and Reader's Favorite Five Star Review

The Golden Pathway ~ August 2010 ~ Guardian Angel Publishing, Inc. ~ Literary Classics Silver Award and Seal of Approval, Readers Favorite 2012 International Book Awards Honorable Mention and Dan Poynter's Global e-Book Awards Finalist

0 Comments on KidLit Book Review ~ Otis, Jerome & Otis O. Kay as of 2/3/2015 8:26:00 AM
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20. Review – WANTED! Ralfy Rabbit, Book Burglar

It is wise to start a new year on a positive note. Many begin with a resolution. A new book excites me. But how do you choose the perfect title that will not only entertain and enthral but also convince you to pick up another, again and again? Best to begin with a tale of […]

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21. January's theme is Landscape!




Our theme for January is Landscape so here you go. These are from This Land Is Your Land, a picture book about land forms. It's by Catherine Ciocchi, published by Arbordale Publishing and illustrated by me, Cathy Morrison. You can see more about this and other projects on my Studio With A View Blog.

Happy New Year and thanks so much for taking a look!

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22. Children's Picture Book Review: Maggie Mae, Detective Extraordinaire: The Case of the Missing Cookies



The sweet smell of super-duper snicker doodles wafts through the air as Grandma prepares for the bake sale. Singing away as she wraps each dozen into plastic bags, she is astonished that bags are missing. Calling on her granddaughter, Maggie Mae, to help solve the mystery of the missing cookies, Maggie Mae puts her detective skills to the test. Interviewing each member of the household, grandfather, brother and even Toby the dog she attempts to catch the culprit and to unearth what the whistle noise before a bag of snicker doodles goes missing has to do with it.

Join YA and Kids' author, Margo Dill as she creates a mystery of intrigue that will have the reader jumping to their own conclusions in hopes of solving the mystery before Maggie Mae, Detective Extraordinaire does.  Jack Foster’s trademark illustrations provide sweetness throughout.

Learn more about Margo Dill’s intriguing writing world at http://margodill.com/blog/.


Visit Jack Foster’s colorful world at http://jacktoon.blogspot.com.

~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~


Best wishes,
Donna M. McDine
Multi Award-winning Children's Author



Ignite curiosity in your child through reading!



Connect with

A Sandy Grave ~ January 2014 ~ Guardian Angel Publishing, Inc. ~ 2014 Purple Dragonfly 1st Place Picture Books 6+, Story Monster Approved, Beach Book Festival Honorable Mention 2014, Reader's Favorite Five Star Review

Powder Monkey ~ May 2013 ~ Guardian Angel Publishing, Inc. ~ Story Monster Approved and Reader's Favorite Five Star Review

Hockey Agony ~ January 2013 ~ Guardian Angel Publishing, Inc. ~ Story Monster Approved and Reader's Farvorite Five Star Review

The Golden Pathway ~ August 2010 ~ Guardian Angel Publishing, Inc.
~ Literary Classics Silver Award and Seal of Approval, Readers Favorite 2012 International Book Awards Honorable Mention and Dan Poynter's Global e-Book Awards Finalist
















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23. Children's Picture Book Review - The Adventures of Wally and Warren: The Reluctant Penguin



The Adventures of Wally and Warren Series: The Reluctant Penguin by Lise Chase

The Adventures of Wally and Warren continue wit their love of books. Hunkering down for bedtime, Warren is determined to read a bedtime story. Remembering how mom taught him how to sound out the words he is confident he can do it. Not to be thwarted by Wally’s negativity of anything Warren wants to try himself, Warren puts his best foot forward to each task Warren’s attempts are admirable. Does Wally ever learn that one must try new things to expand their horizons or does Wally remain wrapped up in his self-doubt?

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Lise Chase expertly creates a world of positive outlook of doing versus others negativity.

Visit the author/illustrator at https://www.facebook.com/lise.chase.9?fref=ts

~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~

Best wishes,
Donna M. McDine
Multi Award-winning Children's Author

Ignite curiosity in your child through reading!

Connect with
A Sandy Grave ~ January 2014 ~ Guardian Angel Publishing, Inc. ~ 2014 Purple Dragonfly 1st Place Picture Books 6+, Story Monster Approved, Beach Book Festival Honorable Mention 2014, Reader's Favorite Five Star Review

Powder Monkey ~ May 2013 ~ Guardian Angel Publishing, Inc. ~ Story Monster Approved and Reader's Favorite Five Star Review

Hockey Agony ~ January 2013 ~ Guardian Angel Publishing, Inc. ~ Story Monster Approved and Reader's Farvorite Five Star Review

The Golden Pathway ~ August 2010 ~ Guardian Angel Publishing, Inc.
~ Literary Classics Silver Award and Seal of Approval, Readers Favorite 2012 International Book Awards Honorable Mention and Dan Poynter's Global e-Book Awards Finalist

0 Comments on Children's Picture Book Review - The Adventures of Wally and Warren: The Reluctant Penguin as of 10/24/2014 8:28:00 AM
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24. Review – Imagine a City

The sumptuous cloth cover and unfurling clouds swirling across the end pages indicate something special about Elise Hurst’s latest picture book, Imagine a City. You’ll recognise Hurst’s illustrations from her other picture books such as The Night Garden, Flood and The Midnight Club to name a few. Imagine a City is a glorious collection of […]

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25. Picture Book - The Magic of Friendship



I'm pleased to introduce Subhash Kommuru's new picture book, The Magic of Friendship...

Book Synopsis

BABBAR is a fierce and mean tiger who cannot tolerate anyone, but he is lonely and sad. HASMUKH is a funny donkey but gets scared of everyone. When the Magic of friendship touches them see how it transforms not only their characters but also transforms the whole environment around them.

The Magic of friendship is a hilarious, action packed entertaining story. There are scary moments, celebration and comical moments. While the core focus of the story is about friendship it has elements of father son bonding and family values as well.

Book gives plenty of opportunity for parents to entertain kids with their own version of animal noises. And bright and interactive illustrations is sure to leave a mark on eyes.

This is a story about change -- a transformation that comes with the magic of friendship. Personality may not change, but nature can surely change. This story will show the value of friendship and how that can change a person, particularly, one who is lonely and never really had the gift of laughter.

Book Excerpt

A flock of migrating geese stumble upon Tadoba, the land of the fierce tiger Babbar who does not tolerate anyone in his area. Will Babbar show any mercy? Can he change? Will the geese make it to safety?

Title: The Magic of Friendship
ISBN:  9-7-80-99031781-4
Genre: Children's Picture Book
Publisher: Kommuru Books
Publication Date: September 2014
# of Pages: 40

Title is available at Amazon

Pick up your copy at Barnes & Noble

Please stop back tomorrow, when Sujata and Subhas Kommuru
visit Write What Inspires You and shares insights into their writing world!

~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~


Best wishes,
Donna M. McDine
Multi Award-winning Children's Author



Ignite curiosity in your child through reading!



Connect with

A Sandy Grave ~ January 2014 ~ Guardian Angel Publishing, Inc. ~ 2014 Purple Dragonfly 1st Place Picture Books 6+, Story Monster Approved, Beach Book Festival Honorable Mention 2014, Reader's Favorite Five Star Review

Powder Monkey ~ May 2013 ~ Guardian Angel Publishing, Inc. ~ Story Monster Approved and Reader's Favorite Five Star Review

Hockey Agony ~ January 2013 ~ Guardian Angel Publishing, Inc. ~ Story Monster Approved and Reader's Farvorite Five Star Review

The Golden Pathway ~ August 2010 ~ Guardian Angel Publishing, Inc.
~ Literary Classics Silver Award and Seal of Approval, Readers Favorite 2012 International Book Awards Honorable Mention and Dan Poynter's Global e-Book Awards Finalist
















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