Lea Schizas - Award-winning Author/Editor

The Zombie Apocalypse Meets Reality TV!

2011-10-22T10:15:00.000-07:00

By the 2040s, the shambling dead have become and international problem. While governments and special interest groups vie for the most environmentally-friendly way to rid the world of zombies, a new breed of exterminator has risen: The Zombie Exterminator. When zombie exterminator Neeta Lyffe gets sued because a zombie she set afire stumbles onto a lawyer's back porch, she needs money, fast. So she agrees to train apprentice exterminators in a reality TV show that makes Survivor look like a game of tag. But that's nothing compared to having to deal with crazy directors, bickering contestants and paparazzi. Can she keep her ratings up, her bills paid and her apprentices alive and still keep her sanity?

Neeta Lyffe, Zombie Exterminator

available at Damnation Books

Excerpt:

The workout room had a weights set and an elliptical in one corner, but Neeta ignored them. She needed more vigorous exercise than that if she wanted to burn off her emotional funk.

None of the plebes had done the routine she'd just set for herself. It didn't really reflect the reality of zombie movements, either. Although the crew had designed the targets to look much like actual undead, they moved too quickly, changed direction too suddenly, lunged and retreated in ways zombies couldn't imitate. They zigged and zaggged, dropped from the ceiling to zoom back up, flung themselves from the ground to trip the unwary. For once, this wasn't about training.

Neeta steeled herself, found an opening and dove in with a roar. She swung high, tagging the first zombie with the edge of her blade just as it got within her reach.

This was about reflexes,

She jumped over the arm that sprung up in front of her, doing the splits as she brought down her chainsaw to slice the hand off at the wrist.

…about burning aggression,

She spun a full circle, moving the saw in a sine wave. She took one target out at the knees, sliced another sideways across the chest, beheaded a third.

…about moving beyond thought and planning and negotiations with writers and directors and people who cared more for ratings than lives,

She lunged, spun, kicked and swung, her battle cries a perfect accompaniment to the pounding music.

A buzzer sounded, and the lights brightened and steadied. The targets stopped their frenetic motions and presented themselves for her to examine. She dropped the saw where she stood and braced her hands against her knees to catch her breath. Her arms felt like lead. A good feeling. She moved among the grimacing targets, noting the strikes that would have severed limbs, the ones that would have beheaded... When she came to the long-haired one with the pot belly, she gave a feral grin.

She's landed the blade in perfect position to slice Dave's manic smile right off his face.

Author Bio: From zombie exterminators to dragon detectives to nuns in space, Karina Fabian's universes make readers laugh, cry and think. Winner of the 2007 EPPIE Award for best sci-fi and the 2010 INDIE Award for best fantasy, she lets her characters take her where they will and is never disappointed. Karina Fabian is married to Colonel Robert Fabian. They and their four kids call home wherever the Air Force sends them. Learn more at www.fabianspace.com

Continuing Blog Tour:

21-Oct	www.snoringscholar.com	review
22-Oct	www.savvyauthors.com	Making Monsters
26-Oct	http://sallyfranklinchristie.com/wp/	interview
26-Oct	http://blog.sabolich.info	Best job in the world
29-Oct	http://timothycward.com/	podcast
30-Oct	http://shovedtothem.blogspot.com	review, guest post
31-Oct	www.fabianspace.com	What my Writing has done to My Kids

FOR MORE INFORMATION

Introducing Meg, And Her Men...

2011-03-06T19:02:00.000-08:00

“The only reason she stopped getting married was because Texas stopped issuing her marriage licenses,” Connie announced boldly, to no one in particular.

Her attitude was quickly moving south, and we weren’t talking Texas. Being the daughter-in-law of the notorious Meg Whatever-her-name-was-this-month probably wasn’t the easiest job in the world, but Connie more often than not managed the position with some kind of humor. Today would be no different, dark humor is still humor.

Woah, where are all of these coming from?

2011-01-16T19:57:00.000-08:00

I'll be rehashing some old posts from another of my blogs until I completely clean it out and delete it and make my life simpler. Way too many blogs to keep up with. LOL

He ran fast, quickly.
She snored, sleeping.
She smelled like a fresh flower, roses, lilies, carnations.
He muttered, whispering softly.

Is this a new trend? First off, pick and choose your descriptive details…once. Don’t be redundant. May read like a new method but it’s nonetheless repetitive, redundant, similar, the same. Get my drift? You’re not inventing a creative voice. Just adding extra words for no reason that will be edited, or at least a good editor should catch and comment to reword. Everything in moderation, please. No overkill.

He ran fast, quickly? Pick one.

She snored, sleeping. Um…is there any other way to snore without sleeping, unless you have a nasal problem.

She smelled like a fresh flower, roses, lilies, carnations. “A” is the optimum word here so pick one.

He muttered, whispering softly. Not sure about you but when someone mutters it’s because he’s eating his words and whispering. Then again, maybe the folks I hang around with are just plain weird.

So, how many other words have you come across while reading that are redundant and feel like yelling at the writer?

Unveiling His Princess by L. K. Below

2011-01-05T06:02:00.000-08:00

L. K. Below, author of Unveiling his Princess, currently lives in Iqaluit, Canada with her very own Prince Charming. She spends most of her time doing what she loves best -- crafting new worlds and stories. Visit her online at www.lbelow.net.

Q: Tell us about your book.

A: When Natalia’s horrid stepsister locks in her a closet, steals her identity, and sets out to marry Prince Bennett in her place, Natalia nearly gives up hope. Luckily, she has a fairy godmother willing to guide her steps. Dressed in nothing but a mouse-skin pelt and assured that Bennett will recognize her even though they’ve never met, she sets out for his palace.

Prince Bennett knows that he must marry his princess, but when he meets her, something seems amiss. He cannot reconcile the lively, veiled beauty he consorts with at night with the waspish princess he meets during the day. And to make matters worse, he can barely fight off his attraction to a fur-clad scullery maid. Whatever will he do?

Q: Where can readers find your book?

A: I always post the links to my website, www.lbelow.net. The book is also available at www.liquidsilverbooks.com.

Q: How long did it take you to write this book?

A: This (22,000-word) novella took me three days to write. But it took longer than that to revise it afterwards LOL.

Q: How long was your path from first draft to publication?

A: Because this is a novella, it was fairly short. I was lucky enough to get this accepted, edited, and set for release in less than a year. I wrote it on January 15^th-17^th of 2010. Most of my works take a lot longer than that before they’re ready to be read.

Q: How did you get the inspiration for this book?

A: I was reading the original Brothers’ Grimm fairytales when I thought to myself, Hey, I could make a story out of this. In fact, I thought that about a lot of them and dog eared each one, but when I considered “Princess Mouseskin” which this story is based on, Natalia immediately popped into my head and away I went.

Q: How closely does your book follow the fairytale?

A: I used it more as a guide than as an actual plot. The essence (the prince is duped, the real princess has to disguise herself as a scullery maid and win him back using three enchanted walnuts) is there, but a lot of the details changed. For instance, in the original story the antagonist is an evil witch who enchanted the prince into thinking he was in love with her, and casting aside the woman he loved. In my version, Bennett and Natalia have an arranged marriage but have never met -- so when Antonia (who, alas, is not a witch) shows up at his palace claiming to be Natalia, he believes her.

Q: What about fairytales called you to write about them?

A: Fairytales are magical and terrible all at the same time. After all, something horrible has to happen before it can come to a close. As a romance author, I love the happily-ever-after premise, so I jumped at the chance to write a real happily ever after. Plus, I relished the chance to weave magic into the plot in such a way.

Q: What was your favorite thing about this book?

A: I love Grimsby, Bennett’s manservant. I found him to be an entertaining character, and I hope to bring him back in a sequel.

Q: What do you intend to work on next?

A: I don’t think “intend” has any part in it LOL. I’m a slave to my muse. Where inspiration leads, I must follow…though I try to resist the call if I’m already in the middle of a book. At the moment, I intend for January to be a month for sequels -- sequels to my young adult novel(s), to my romances, and to my forthcoming fantasy. But since I doubt I’ll get through them all, I can’t really say what the month will bring. That’s part of the adventure.

Q: Do you ever find it difficult to write in more than one genre?

A: Not at all. In fact, the opposite is true. Because I write in so many genres, whenever I get stuck on one, I can easily switch to another genre. I find it’s the best cure for writer’s block, though it sometimes takes me a while to return to the novel I was blocked with!

Q: Do you have any other writing tips and tricks you’d like to share?

A: If the characters aren’t cooperating, I find that interviewing them helps me to get their voices down on paper. Then, instead of re-reading everything I’ve written, I can glance over that interview, get a feel for the characters, and launch back into the story.

While I’m not a plotter, I occasionally find holes in my plot that I don’t know how to fix (and which my beta readers have no suggestions for either). To help with that, I make a story web -- which in my case means that I summarize every scene on a sticky note and place it on the wall. Then I do the same with subplots, making sure they’re followed all the way from beginning to conclusion in the scenes. Then I add themes and symbolism, noting which scenes represent those and where there is a lull. Often this large-scale visual representation helps me to figure out how to fix what went wrong.

Q: What is your advice to aspiring writers?

A: Don’t give up. Simple enough advice, but it isn’t said enough. The writing world can be discouraging at times. First, there’s the rejections. Then the edits (which you may or may not agree with). Once your book is published, it may receive bad reviews -- and may even earn you hate mail from malicious readers! And of course, there’s the never-ending task of marketing and the slim check you might get in the mail from previous sales. Unless you’re a bestseller, I don’t think the last one will ever be what you’re hoping for. But if writing is your calling, don’t. Give. Up.

Q: What is your favorite part about the publishing process so far?

A: That’s definitely the covers. While writing, I have a picture of my characters in my head that I try to get out on paper. But seeing my covers for the first time… well some of them, like this one, leave me speechless! It’s uncanny how often cover artists are able to get a feel for my book and put it in an image. Beautiful!

EXCERPT:

Natalia had always known she would marry Prince Bennett; their union had been arranged when she was still in the cradle. But with her father’s remarriage and the arrival of Natalia’s stepsister, the state of her betrothal seemed poised precariously on the brink of a precipice. And her stepsister was determined to see it reduced to tatters.

Antonia first began with cajoling. She wanted Prince Bennett for herself--that much was obvious--but Natalia refused to admit defeat. With the contract arranged and signed, her marriage was a matter of honor. Her feelings for Prince Bennett aside, she would see it through to the letter. Unfortunately, Antonia had other ideas.

When her pretence at sisterly affection did not work, Antonia turned to crueler means. She took to following Natalia around, criticizing her at every point and undermining her self-confidence. Although Natalia valiantly buried her emotions when in Antonia’s presence, she couldn’t stop the tears leaking from her eyes onto the pillow each night. Even worse, she began to wonder which of Antonia’s barbs were true and which were fancied. But even that did not achieve Antonia’s goals. Natalia refused to back down.

Now, Antonia’s desperation was beginning to show in her actions.

Natalia didn’t expect to meet Antonia in the corridor at such an early hour. Her stepsister usually lay abed until noon. However, as soon as Natalia exited her chambers in her least conspicuous dress, bound for her morning tour of the gardens, she came face to face with her horrid stepsister.

Composure, she reminded herself. Antonia might have cut her deeply in past weeks, but Natalia was determined not to let it show. A princess must never show her weaknesses. Therefore, instead of retreating to her chambers as she dearly wished to, she coolly nodded to Antonia and continued past her. “Good morning, Antonia,” she murmured under her breath. She was proud to hear no tremble in her voice.

Continuing down the hall, she frowned at the open door of a linen closet. The maids were usually conscientious enough to shut the doors after they were through with their chores, in order to maintain the overall aesthetic appeal of the castle. Natalia gave an inner shrug. Clearly, someone had been negligent.

As she stepped past the linen closet, Antonia broadsided her. Unprepared for Antonia’s attack, Natalia stumbled into the closet, aided by her stepsister’s rough pushes. She caught herself on the shelves before she fell, but before she could gather her wits and straighten her clothing, Antonia slammed the closet door. As she heard the click of a lock, Natalia’s breath fled. Her hand shot out to grip the handle, though she knew it was no use. She was locked inside.

Although her breath began to tremble, she refrained from banging on the door. Princesses did not bang on doors. They did not scream. They remained calm and poised, and so, too, would she. Clasping her arms around her middle, she struggled to keep her tears at bay.

Antonia’s cold, shrill voice pierced through the wood. “I’m afraid you’ll have to stay in here, Princess Bitch. That’s what they call you, you know. The servants, the knights, even your own father. Luckily for Prince Bennett, he won’t be marrying you.”

At the pronouncement, Natalia held her breath. Her mind counted the seconds as she waited for the speech that was sure to follow. Antonia’s narrow-minded spiel seldom differed.

“He will be marrying me,” Antonia said in a self-satisfied tone. “With his father’s death, he will need to wed in order to claim the throne as king. Instead of having him come here to claim his bride, I will go to him--as you.”

As Natalia gasped, she clasped a hand over her mouth to stifle the sound.

Her tone cutting, Antonia continued, “You won’t interfere, Princess Bitch--unless you want a scandal, that is. By the time you get free of this closet, it will be too late to stop me, anyway. Have fun in the dust and spiders--it’s where you belong!”

As Antonia’s laughing retreat echoed in Natalia’s ears, she bit the inside of her cheek. Still, tears sprang to her eyes. She had expected cruelty, but she had never expected this. At that moment, with Natalia cloistered in the dark, dusty closet, Antonia seemed destined to get her wish. She would wed Prince Bennett, and Natalia would be left to watch.

Sobbing quietly, she sank to the floor.

Whose fault is it?

2010-12-17T06:13:00.000-08:00

You've heard stories/rumors that small publishers really don't take the time like the big publishers to make sure and offer a thoroughly edited or fleshed out story, so you opt out buying from them to go and spend a few extra bucks to purchase from the 'biggies.'

You begin reading and some things jump out at you:

change of point of view from one character to another from one paragraph to the next

foreshadows you were waiting to happen but never materialized

typos - which are excusable in any sized house unless each paragraph contains typos

a storyline that's captivated you only to finish rushed, with no real finale

new characters introduced at a late stage to come save the day for the hero/heroine

So whose fault is this? The editors? The big named authors? The publisher's? All of them? Are they more laid back because they believe readers will forgive them because it's a popular author?

I'm ranting because although there are small houses that really don't care about their final products or rather don't take as much effort as another small house to perfect and offer as clean a book as possible, there are still these myths that the smaller house does not take the same time and effort in their books. That's not so.

Then you have agents who ask a prospective author if they are published and when the author excitedly replies, "Yes, with XYZ Publishing.", the agent says "Well, don't mention that because it won't weigh in your favor." Come again?

I'm not sure but didn't the biggies start off small?

Although big houses do get you on the bookshelves, the lifespan to remain on the bookshelf unless you sell tons is not all that great. The marketing aspect still remains with an author regardless where they are published. The big houses do offer advances which is great. Small houses for the most part don't have the budget for advances. So yes, there are advantages and disadvantages to consider. But the most important part is to find a good match for your book and one that matches your mentality as to what a house should be like before you sign a contract.

I follow a few famous authors because their books have consistently been as clean as can be, with a thoroughly fleshed out story, no jarring point of views switches, or obvious boo boos because to me, and you may not agree which is fine, tells me that they take pride in their final product and don't risk the chance of offering a book to their readers if it's not a proper finished product.

Most of my ebooks and print books come from smaller publishers because I like what I read and fully satisfied as a buying customer.

Moral of this post: Don't take readers for granted!

Autism Epidemic: Shaking the System

Introducing My Two Picture Books

2010-12-02T15:58:00.000-08:00

I'm thrilled to introduce my first two picture books to you.

First, just in time for Christmas, the best selling A Star in the Night is available at Guardian Angel Publishing, Barnes and Noble.com and Amazon.com.

What's the book about?

David makes his way home on Christmas Eve and sees this is no ordinary night. Accompanied by a shimmering star and some tough decisions, David encounters three experiences that will change his view of Christmas forever. Join David on his wondrous journey home.

Excerpt:

A longhaired man with a beard clung to the curb inches away from the crowd of holiday shoppers. Softball sized holes engulfed his white clothes. The man spotted David and limped closer to him. A chill ran down David’s back. He knew he shouldn’t talk to strangers, and this one smelled terrible!

The second book, Teresa's Shadow was released at the end of October.

One night at bedtime Teresa discovers Corky, a furry visitor, in her room. Corky is no ordinary monster. In fact he seems just as scared as Teresa. Teresa soon realizes she must help Corky get home. But how can she when she’s afraid of the dark and Corky is afraid of the light?

Excerpt:

Teresa shivered in her robe and clutched her stuffed animal, Mr. Froggie. “It’s not real,” she said to herself. But her heart pumped as if it were about to explode. Her boney legs wobbled like jelly. With Mr. Froggie in hand, Teresa took a deep breath and pulled the doorknob. Instead of an empty closet, she saw glassy, yellow eyes staring back at her.

Just in time for the 2010 Holiday Season - Personalized Autographed Book: The Golden Pathway by Donna M. McDine

2010-11-17T10:26:00.000-08:00

M E D I A R E L E A S E

CONTACT:
Donna M. McDine
Children’s Author

Email: donna@donnamcdine.com
Website: http://www.donnamcdine.com/
Blog: http://www.thegoldenpathway.blogspot.com/
Phone: 845-721-7802
For Immediate Release
Just in time for the 2010 Holiday Season - Personalized Autographed Book: The Golden Pathway by Donna M. McDine
Give the wonder of an autographed book to the young muse in your life. Children’s author, Donna M. McDine is offering a terrific opportunity to build your child’s book collection with an autographed copy of her historical fiction story book The Golden Pathway for ages 8-12, two complimentary bookmarks included.
Synopsis:
Be transported through time to the Underground Railroad, where high-pitched screams echo each night. David’s cruel Pa always chooses the same victim. Despite the circumstances during slavery, David uncovers the courage to defy his Pa.
Raised in a hostile environment where abuse occurs daily, David attempts to break the mold and befriends the slave, Jenkins, owned by his Pa. Fighting against extraordinary times and beliefs, David attempts to lead Jenkins to freedom with no regard for his own safety and possible consequences dealt out by his Pa.
Publisher: Guardian Angel Publishing, Inc.

Publication Date: August 2010
Print ISBN 13: 978-1-61633-081-1

eBook ISBN 13: 978-1-61633-082-8
FREE shipping via US Postal Service for the remainder of 2010.

Visit: http://www.donnamcdine.com and order yours today for the young muse in your life.

Thank you for your time and interest.

Best wishes for a blessed holiday season!

Donna M. McDine
Children’s Author

###

Full Media Kit, Headshot, Book Cover Art and more are available upon request.

Meet Debra K. Dunlap YA author

2010-11-14T05:14:00.000-08:00

I have the pleasure of hosting Debra K. Dunlap today while on her blog book tour for her young adult fantasy, Fallon O'Reilly and the Ice Queen's Lair.

My family lived in the Alaskan wilderness when I was a child and my mother homeschooled me during first grade. As soon as she explained that the marks on paper represented sounds, I grasped the concept of reading and books hooked me for life. I wrote my first novel at the age of 11 or 12, pounding it out on a toy typewriter. Although the 25-page novel disappeared (thankfully!), my love of stories remained.

After attending the Muse Online Writer’s Conference, I felt inspired to begin putting stories in a more permanent form than my imagination. During the Conference, I learned of NaNoWriMo and resolved to rise to the challenge of writing 50,000 words in a month. Fallon’s story had been rattling around in my head for some time and NaNo provided the opportunity to begin writing. I did write 50k words in a month and went on to write another 25 thousand to complete the book.

During the same period of time, my oldest son came to visit from his home in Japan. I live in Wyoming, where the summers are very hot and dry. Like many Wyoming residents, I use a “swamp cooler.” For those who have never seen a swamp cooler, it’s a big vented metal box. Water runs into the box bottom through a small tube and a fan inside the box blows cold humid air into your house. I love swamp coolers! My sons frequently complained of the cold temperature in my living room, where the swamp cooler rested in a window. One night as we prepared to eat pizza and watch a movie, my oldest son called to his brothers. “C’mon, guys. The movie’s ready. Time to head into the Ice Queen’s lair.”

Voila! Instant book title. It need only a character name to become Fallon O’Reilly & the Ice Queen’s Lair.

Imagination

Imagination is more important than knowledge.

-Albert Einstein

(14 March 1879 – 18 April 1955)

When one of the most brilliant minds to ever live on our planet speaks, it behooves us all to consider his words. Imagination is more important than knowledge. This quote grabbed my attention the first moment I read it. What does it really mean? What relevance does this have to me as a writer? To you?

If you type the phrase into an online search engine, you will be astounded by the number of links to debates about the relative importance of imagination and knowledge. I prefer to avoid the debates and consider what Einstein’s words mean to me. How could the man who developed the theory of relativity believe imagination more important than knowledge? Did he not spend years studying physics and mathematics? Did he not devote his life to expanding his own knowledge?

Of course he did. Yet, it was Einstein’s imagination that allowed him to envision the problems that led to solutions in the form of his splendid theories. Knowledge is limited. Imagination knows no boundaries. Unlimited imagination applied to the limits of knowledge expands the limits of knowledge to produce new ideas, new theories, new inventions. A mouthful, I know, but think about it.

Why? How come? What if? These questions are familiar to parents, grandparents and anyone who listens to children. As we age, the mundane world tends to stultify our view of a world full of miracles and wonderment. Many of us gradually come to believe only one correct way exists to accomplish our tasks. We schedule our lives and conduct our daily work in the same place at the same time in the same way, day after unimaginative day.

That’s frightening! It is particularly troubling when one considers how much our children learn from us. No reasoning person wants to raise a world full of dull, unimaginative children, so shake it up! Skip the Wednesday-meatloaf-night routine and have kung pao chicken with baklava for dessert. Drive a new route to work and see new sights. Give your children Clan of the Cave Bear names (kudos to Jean Auel) and narrate a fight for your survival as you walk through a winter snow.

Perhaps writers, as well as other artistic types, intuitively grasp the importance of imagination in our lives. Yet, we can all benefit from expanding our horizons and adding new things to our repertoire. Learn a new language or sign up for a cake-decorating class. Take on online computer class. Teach yourself to knit or change a tire. Expand the limits of your knowledge and loose the reins of your imagination.

Mayhap Einstein’s ideas will lead you to write the next bestseller.

Where can readers find information about you and your book?

MuseItUp Publishing plans to release the book in October 2010. For the time being, you can find information at the publisher’s website.

http://museituppublishing.com/musepub/index.php?option=com_content&view=article&id=57&Itemid=82

You can also find me at the following addresses:

http://debrakdunlap.com

http://debrakdunlap.blogspot.com/

http://www.manicreaders.com/DebraKDunlap/

Feel free to email me at

dkd@debrakdunlap.com

Blogging - the New Literature

2010-11-06T08:39:00.000-07:00

Have you read any great blogs lately? I've noticed there's a mish-mash of recent books available on every writer blog I've seen, but there's more to writing now in 2010 than just book covers and literary accomplishments.

Blogging has become the upscale reading material of a new generation. And people think these kids don't read...

Let's compare for a moment the knowledge base of yesterday to today's youth. In those years of yore, we had an abundance of newspapers reporting on stories that kept up with society (Remember "The Gossip Page"?) and a whole social status of articles and publications that arrived with the Sunday Paper. But the kids my age weren't much interested in reading such oratorical crap. We, instead, turned on the radio or buried our faces in literary accomplishments that held little life value.

Blogging is the new "connection" for young people. I don't know many who do not read or write blogs. In fact, at very young ages, all four of my children and my three niece/nephews all had a blog of their own. Not only did they write in their blogs, but they read other people's blogs. The best part of their efforts included restating and linking to blogs where they read comments they liked. Reference blogging is similar to reference writing, but more appropriately linked using simple linking tools included on the blogs.

As writers and authors, creating books, magazine articles and other materials that will be used as references and entertainment over the next many generations, we should be thinking about where we can resource our materials. Can we link to other bloggers in our blogs? Can we reference books and other printed documents in ways that our readers can locate those documents for a point of referral? How about a concerted effort to reinstate integrity into our writing efforts by adding references to our work?

Blogging is an important part of creating for the next generation. Let's give them what they ask for with reference points so they can check our facts.

Autism Epidemic: Shaking the System

2010-10-29T18:11:00.000-07:00

Autism Epidemic: Shaking the System

Now available in Kindle and Print!

An inspirational book with personal stories and helpful information, not only for families affected by autism but as an autism awareness platform to sensitize the general public and offer them an insight as to what autism is and its impact on families.

The Golden Pathway Virtual Book Tour Reaches the Homestretch

2010-10-23T13:52:00.000-07:00

It's hard to believe that The Golden Pathway virtual book tour coordinated by Pump Up Your Book Promotion reaches the homestretch. The adventure of introducing David and Jenkins to the literary world has been a wonderful opportunity to meet so many advid readers I may have never met otherwise. Even though this portion of the journey will end on October 29, I'm anxious to keep their story swirling through cyberspace and into classrooms, libraries, and bookstores. So don't forget to check back for updates on appearances both vritually and in person.

Thank you to one and all for your never ending support and please follow along on the last stops, for when one's journey ends, another adventure awaits.

Monday, October 25
Book spotlighted at Book Tours and More
http://booktoursandmore.blogspot.com/

Thursday, October 28
Book reviewed at Thoughts in Progress
http://masoncanyon.blogspot.com/

Friday, October 29
Book reviewed at Book Reviews by Molly
http://reviewsbymolly.blogspot.com/

Guest blogging at SFC Blog: Families Matter
http://familiesmatter2us.blogspot.com/

Thank you for your time and interest!

Check out my latest trailer!

2010-10-07T05:56:00.001-07:00

Kim McDougall of Blazing Trailers did a fabulous job! Thank you, Kim!

Press Release!

2010-10-05T09:54:00.000-07:00

M E D I A R E L E A S E

CONTACT: Suzanne Lieurance

Email: suzannelieurance@hotmail.com

Website: http://writingforchildrencenter.com

The National Writing for Children Center is Sponsoring a 6-day Virtual Book Tour for Author Mayra Calvani, Starting Wednesday, October 6, 2010

Author Mayra Calvani and her new book How to Turn Your Book Club into a Spectacular Event are being showcased the entire month of October at the National Writing for Children Center. Part of this showcase includes a 6-day virtual book tour. Join Suzanne Lieurance, founder and director of the National Writing for Children Center, and the virtual book tour hosts as they welcome Mayra Calvani for her exclusive tour that starts Wednesday, October 6.

Mayra Calvani is an award-winning multi-genre author for children and adults. Her work, The Slippery Art of Book Reviewing, was a ForeWord Best Book of the Year Award winner. She’s had over 300 reviews, interviews, articles and stories published online and in print. Her picture books include The Magic Violin, Crash, Humberto the Bookworm Hamster, and the forthcoming Frederico the Mouse Violinist.

Intrigued? Want to learn more about Mayra? Follow along on Mayra’s virtual book tour. Here's the schedule:

Wednesday, October 6

“Meet the Author”

Host: Terri Forehand – “http://terri-forehand.blogspot.com/” http://terri-forehand.blogspot.com/

Thursday, October 7

“The Writer’s Life”

Host: Kristi Bernard – “http://kristibernard.wordpress.com” http://kristibernard.wordpress.com

Friday, October 8

“Tradebook Tips for Teachers”

Host: Margot Finke – “http://margotfinke.blogspot.com/” http://margotfinke.blogspot.com/

Saturday, October 9

“Writing Tips”

Host: Donna McDine - “http://www.thegoldenpathway.blogspot.com” http://www.thegoldenpathway.blogspot.com

Sunday, October 10

“On the Go”

Host: Suzanne Lieurance – “http://suzannelieurance.com” http://suzannelieurance.com

Monday, October 11

“Become a Fan of Children’s Author, Mayra Calvani”

Host: Kathy Stemke – “http://www.educationtipster.blogspot.com” http://www.educationtipster.blogspot.com

Thank you for your interest, we look forward to your visit.

Authors interested in being showcased at the National Writing for Children Center can download an application "http://www.writingforchildrencenter.com" www.writingforchildrencenter.com or email Suzanne Lieurance for more information at "mailto:bookbitesforkids@yahoo.com" bookbitesforkids@yahoo.com.

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Top Mom Blogger Features My Book

2010-09-23T12:13:00.000-07:00

Hi all,

My children's picture book, The Magic Violin is being featured at a top mom blogger this week.

The blog's name is Moms Wear Your Tees and it is hosted by Scarlett Paolicchi. Not only did she give the book a wonderful review, but she's also hosting a giveaway! Thanks, Scarlett!

The blog has close to 1,500 followers, which I think it's pretty awesome.

http://momswearyourtees.blogspot.com/2010/09/magic-violin-childrens-picture-book.html

Cheers!
Mayra

Children's author Donna McDine talks about her first book, The Golden Pathway

2010-09-14T07:58:00.000-07:00

Donna McDine is an award-winning children's author whose stories have been featured in multiple print and online publications. Her first book, The Golden Pathway, is about a boy who befriends a slave during the civil war. It is an illustrated story book for older readers (ages 9-12). Donna is a member of the Society of Children's Book Writers and Illustrators, Musing Our Children, and The National Writing for Children Center. You can learn more about Donna on her website. If you sign the guestbook, you’ll receive a free ebook, Write What Inspires You: Author Interviews. Donna also keeps two blogs, www.donna-mcdine.blogspot.com and www.thegoldenpathway.blogspot.com.

Thanks for the interview, Donna! When did you start writing for children?

In 2006 I came across an ad for The Institute of Children’s Literature and completed their aptitude test and application and mailed it back for consideration. This came at the perfect time for me since I was longing to find something more fulfilling outside the scope of administrative and website work. About a month afterwards I received an acceptance to ICL and haven’t looked back since.

Tell us about your historical children’s book, The Golden Pathway. What inspired you to write it?

History has always fascinated me and when I had the chance to outline a book idea for my last ICL assignment the Underground Railroad immediately came to mind. While I did get positive feedback on my outline my ICL instructor did not feel there was enough appeal with a market flooded with the Underground Railroad books. I reluctantly put my outline away and tried to forget about it, but it kept calling to me to write it. And again perfect timing aligned and I discovered Suzanne Lieurance at the Children’s Writers’ Coaching Club and I dusted off my outline and eagerly began writing. This manuscript was critiqued in the early stages by Suzanne Lieurance (CWCC) and my online critique groups and placed as Honorable Mention in the Writer's Digest 78th Writing Competition, then edited after the competition by Lea Schizas to assist in expanding the story since it was no longer under a word constraint from the contest.

I understand The Golden Pathway is an illustrated story book and not a picture book. Could you please explain the difference between the two?

A standard picture book is 32-pages with illustrations on every page and geared towards 2-8 years old. While a story book has roughly half the amount of illustrations the text is written with the 9-12 age range in mind and (in the case of The Golden Pathway) almost 2,000 words. Each publisher has their specific guidelines they follow. Over the course of the years many teachers have realized a vast majority of students respond better to their curriculum with visuals. Hence the story book format.

Did you have to do a lot of research for this book?

Initially online, then visiting the Tappan Library and thoroughly researching the Underground Railroad.

What is the main message children will learn from this book?

Overcoming adversity against immeasurable odds and that with determination success in achieving your dreams is possible.

The illustrations in the book were done by fine Oregonian artist K.C. Snider. How was your experience working with an illustrator? Did you have input in the artwork? Do you think she captured the mood and tone of the story?

My excitement over the quality of illustrations K.C. Snider designed blew me away from the onset of the book cover design. K.C. captured the true essence of The Golden Pathway from the get go. Since The Golden Pathway is my first book I honestly did not know what to expect from the collaboration process and I was pleasantly surprised. I have read time and time again that the author and illustrator never meet, but not in the case of Guardian Angel Publishing. As long as an author tries not to micro-manage the illustrator and puts full trust in the publisher and illustrator a win-win outcome is sure to be had.

You also offer press release services to authors. Tell us all about it!

My press release service is called Dynamic Media Release Services and with the overwhelming responsibilities an author has to promote their books I thought what better way to take the pressure off a bit is to offer this service at reasonable prices. For rates and testimonials readers should check this page.

What next for Donna McDine?

I'm thrilled to announce my manuscripts entitled, The Hockey Agony and Powder Monkey or Boy have been accepted by Guardian Angel Publishing. These will be my second and third story books with this publisher.

Any last words to our readers?

My road to publication has had the typical rejections (which I can wallpaper my office with) and doubts of my abilities to make a go as a published writer. I have found every writer experiences these feelings, but learn to push through the “doubting Thomas” thoughts to reach publication success. Don’t give up! Learn your craft, continued to network, and success will come your way.

Thanks you, Donna, and best of luck with your book!

It's official!! The Golden Pathway is NOW available:

2010-08-26T09:07:00.000-07:00

It's official!! The Golden Pathway is NOW available:

Title: The Golden Pathway

Written by: Donna McDine

Illustrated by: K.C. Snider

Ages: 8-12

Publisher: Guardian Angel Publishing, Inc.

Hardcover: ISBN: 978-1-61633-081-1; 1616330813

Soft cover: ISBN: 978-1-61633-088-0; 1616330880

eBook: ISBN: 978-1-61633-082-8; 1616330821

Published: August 2010

Synopsis:

Raised in a hostile environment where abuse occurs daily, David attempts to break the mold and befriends the slave, Jenkins, owned by his Pa. Fighting against extraordinary times and beliefs, David leads Jenkins to freedom with no regard for his own safety and possible consequences dealt out by his Pa.

Author: Donna McDine http://www.donnamcdine.com/

Artist: K. C. Snider http://www.kcsniderart.com/

Ordering information:

Guardian Angel Publishing: http://www.guardianangelpublishing.com/pathway.htm

Amazon: http://www.amazon.com/Golden-Pathway-Donna-M-McDIne/dp/1616330880/ref=sr_1_1?s=books&ie=UTF8&qid=1282836673&sr=1-1

Indie-Debut 2010 Interview Feature with C. Lee McKenzie, The Write Game

2010-08-19T04:22:00.000-07:00

M E D I A R E L E A S E

CONTACT: Donna M. McDine

Children’s Author

Email: dmcdine@optonline.net

Phone: 845-721-7802

For Immediate Release

Indie-Debut 2010 Interview Feature with C. Lee McKenzie, The Write Game

The Write Game http://writegame.blogspot.com/ hosted by C. Lee McKenzie is your one stop place to learn about up and coming debut writers in various genres. McKenzie is quite the accomplished author with several middle grade and young adult books to her credit, coupled with her experience teaching inter-cultural English and studies in American Language at San Jose State University. This makes for the perfect visit for the authors of Indie-Debut 2010 http://indiedebut2010.blogspot.com/.

Come along for this intriguing interview on Thursday, August 19 at http://writegame.blogspot.com/ and meet:

Lori Calabrese, The Bug That Plagued the Entire Third Grade

Danika Dinsmore, Brigitta of the White Forest

Donna McDine, The Golden Pathway

Jo Ramsey, Connection

Beth Reinke, In My Bath

Be sure to leave a comment and or question, each author will check in throughout the day to field your comments and questions. Visitors participating in the contest point system please see further details within the Indie-debut 2010 interview. Don’t miss out on the chance to win a special giveaway tote bag with special treats.

Thank you in advance for your interest.

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Unintentional Deliverance of my Muse by Lea Schizas

2010-08-18T19:35:00.000-07:00

http://www.museituppublishing.com

December 1999 finds me sulking, worried about the year 2000 approaching and the calamity to come that I read about. Silly and stupid as this may sound, my life’s dream becoming a writer felt as though it had no chance at that point. Then January first…second…third rolled around and nothing had happened as predicted. No turmoil and I still had my manuscripts safely in tact in my computer. This is when I woke up from my 23-year-self-induced-coma-taking-care-of-everyone-else stupor. But let me backtrack for a minute…

I kept whining to my kids that all I wanted was a set of new notebooks and a neat pen to call my own for my books needing to be penned. Come January 8^th, my b-day, my kids not only bought me notebooks to use for various story ideas, and my very own expensive pen let me add, but several ‘how-to’ writing books, and Writer’s Digest magazines. These gifts on my birthday stirred my Muse back into action and within two months I wrote my first screenplay, entered and won my first short story contest, and began two new novels.

In all honesty, my marriage and birth of my kids will always have top billing. But finally, my own interests and needs pushed through the long list of things that had invaded my life: taxi driving kids everywhere, nursing booboos, cooking food that took about five minutes to munch and two hours to prepare, and playing referee to all the MOM! screams. My Muse jumped out of me and has never allowed me to wiggle her back into oblivion.

It wasn’t the gifts presented to me that made my January 2000 birthday special and memorable to this day. Their combined efforts to buy the tools I needed to jumpstart my career whispered in my ear that they finally understood mom had needs, as well. To this day I am grateful and attribute everything I’ve accomplished thus far to them. My newest obstacle is to figure out how I can make them understand that writing needs peace and quiet and not, “Mom, what’s for lunch?”, “Mom, can you drive me to work?”, “Mom, Mom, Mom…”

Lea is the author of:

Bubba and Giganto: Odds Against Us

Doorman's Creek

Autism Epidemic: Shaking the System

The Ten Commandments of Book Reviewing

2010-08-07T12:41:00.000-07:00

1. Thou shall have no other gods before the reader.

The review is not about the author, nor the publisher, and especially, not about you, the reviewer. Reviews are all about the reader. Don’t try to impress with pompous words in an attempt to glorify yourself or appear scholarly. Give readers simplicity and clarity. They’ll appreciate it. If they want verbose and fancy, they can read Shakespeare.

2. Thou shall not lie.

Honesty is what defines your trade. Without it, you’re nothing but sell copy. When you give facile praise or sugar-coat a book, sooner or later readers will take you for what you are: a phony. Furthermore, if you give facile praise to a poorly written book, you are perpetuating a bad writer's career, lowering the chances that a good writer may be published instead.

3. Thou shall not offend the author.

Just as honesty is important, so is tact. There’s no need to be harsh or mean. A tactfully written, well-meant negative review should offer the author insight into what is wrong with the book. Instead of saying, “This is a terrible novel!” say, “This book didn’t work for me for the following reasons…”

4. Thou shall not eat the evaluation.

Some fledgling reviewers write a long blurb of the book and leave out the evaluation. The evaluation is the most important part of a review. A summary of the plot is not an evaluation. Saying, “I really liked this book” is not an evaluation. The evaluation tells the reader what is good and bad about the book, and whether or not it is worth buying.

5. Thou shall not reveal spoilers.

Nobody likes to be told the ending of a movie before having watched it. The same thing is valid for a book. If you give spoilers in your review, not only do you lessen the reader’s reading experience but you also risk being sued by the publisher or author.

6. Thou shall honor grammar, syntax and punctuation.

Don’t be one of those reviewers who are more in love with the idea of seeing their name online than making sure their reviews are well written and thorough. Your reviews may hang around on the internet for years to come and will reflect on your level as a writer. Run a spell check, edit, revise and polish your review as if you were posting a short story. Get a good book on grammar and punctuation, take an online course or listen regularly to podcasts such as The Grammar Girl (http://grammar.quickanddirtytips.com).

7. Thou shall honor deadlines.

If you join a review site where the turnaround for reviews is 3 weeks, then you should respect that agreement. If you promise the author to have the review ready in two months, you should honor this too. Be honest and straight forward from the beginning. If you’re so busy your turnaround is six months, make sure to let the person know. If for any reasons you cannot meet the deadline, contact the person and let him know. It’s your responsibility to maintain a doable schedule.

8. Thou shall not be prejudiced against thy neighbor.

Don't assume that a self-published or small press book is poorly written. Give it a fair chance and let it speak for itself. Likewise, never assume a book published by a major NY house has to be good. You'd be surprised by the high quality of some small press books by unknown authors as opposed to those written by big name authors whose titles are often in the bestseller lists. In general, most subsidy books are mediocre, but there are always exceptions. If you've had bad experiences with subsidy books, then don't request them nor accept them for review. If you decide to review one, though, don't be biased and give it a fair chance.

9. Thou shall not become an RC addict

RC stands for Review Copy. Requesting RCs can get out of control. In fact, it can become addictive. You should be realistic about how many books you can review. If you don’t, pretty soon you’ll be drowning in more RCs that you can handle. When this happens, reading and reviewing can change from a fun, pleasurable experience into a stressful one. If you’re feeling frazzled because you have a tower of books waiting to be reviewed, learn to say NO when someone approaches you for a review and stop requesting RCs for a while. Unless you’re being paid as a staff reviewer for a newspaper or magazine, reviewing shouldn’t get in the way of your daily life.

10. Thou shall not steal.

Remember that the books you request are being sent to you in exchange for a review. Requesting review copies and not writing the reviews is, in one word: stealing. You'd be surprised at the number of 'reviewers' who, after having requested several books, suddenly 'disappear.' These people are not legitimate; they're crooks, plain and simple. If you have a valid reason for not reviewing a book, let the review site editor, author, publisher or publicist know.

The same goes for piracy. Do not risk being arrested or fined for posting a full ebook you have received on any site whether for free downloads or resale. This is theft and the law is quite specific. When you receive an ebook it is meant to give you the right to read it only, but it does not imply that you have the right to rob the author of future sales by your actions. This labels you as a thief. Using electronic transmission is only another way to send a book, like getting one in the mail which would not give you the right to reprint it for sale or distribution.

Integrity is part of the code of honor of a legitimate reviewer.

The author of 12 books, Mayra Calvani writes fiction and nonfiction for children and adults. Her nonfiction work, The Slippery Art of Book Reviewing, co-authored with Anne K. Edwards, was a ForeWord Best Book of the Year Award winner. She’s had over 300 stories, articles, interviews and reviews published. She reviews for The New York Journal of Books and SimplySharly.com. Visit her website at www.MayraCalvani.com. For her children’s books, visit www.MayrasSecretBookcase.com.

Caves, Cannons, and Crinolines Virtual Book Tour

2010-08-02T18:48:00.000-07:00

Today, I'd like you to meet the main characters in my new young adult historical fiction story, Caves, Cannons, and Crinolines. I'm turning the post over to them now.

Greetings, friends. My name is Elizabeth Stamford. My family and friends call me Lizzie. I like it better because it’s less formal, and heaven knows there are enough rules Mama expects me as a young lady to follow, without fretting over my long name. I’m fourteen and live in Vicksburg, Mississippi, a once lovely, quiet town. Then the Federals came and our lives have not been the same since.

It seems the Mississippi River is very important to General Ulysses S. Grant. The Union army hopes to control the Mississippi. If they conquer Vicksburg they will succeed. I do not comprehend why men cannot get along with one another. Why they must fight constantly. Mama fears for Nat (my younger brother Nathan) and me. And do you know what Papa did? I scarcely believe it even as I speak. But he hired a cave dug in the hillside behind our home and expects us to live in it while the Yankee ships on the river bombard us with cannon shot.

Can you imagine cowering in a hole in the ground, choking on dust, hiding like cowards? I cannot. And so I’ve made my plans. I shall not reveal them to you here because nothing must stop me. Even though Nat appears to be quiet and a bit slow, he is smart and has big ears. He hears every word spoken and mulls them over in his mind.

“May I speak, Lizzie?

See what I’m saying. Nat can appear to be in his own world of stars and flying machines, (whoever heard of such silliness?) but his real self is firmly planted next to me, hanging onto everything I say or do. Papa, who is a doctor, has told Nat he must look after me and Mama while he attends the sick and wounded. Nat takes responsibility quite seriously. “What is it, Nat?” I ask him.

“We’ve not heard from Joseph or Willie for a while. We should write them a letter.”

Nat is almost always right, as he is now. Our older brothers, Willie and Joseph, are in the army at Virginia, and weeks have passed since they last wrote to us. I am concerned about them. “We shall do that, Nat. Fetch paper and pencil.

I do not know what I would do if my brothers did not return home. But I shan’t think of that. One day the ships on the river will leave, the army will go away, and we’ll be a family again. We can repair our homes and our lives. You can read more about the Stamfords of Vicksburg in our book, Caves, Cannons, and Crinolines, by Beverly Stowe McClure, published by Twilight Times Books. It is a story of fear, courage, and understanding that people, no matter where they live, have the same needs: love, peace and security.

Caves, Cannons, and Crinolines
Twilight Times Books
Young Adult Historical Fiction
Trade Paperback, 152 pages
ISBN: 1-60619-112-8
$14.95
The book is available at Amazon: http://amzn.to/9Zdw2U or the publisher http://www.twilighttimesbooks.com or your favorite book store can order it for you.

We will return to tell you more about our town and what is happening to it. Thank you for listening.

Beverly adds: Please leave a comment and be entered in a drawing for a signed copy of Caves, Cannons, and Crinolines. We look forward to hearing from you.

Slip, Slide into the World of Book Reviewing

2010-07-14T07:34:00.000-07:00

Slip, slide into the World of Book Reviewing

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
PRLog (Press Release) – Jul 11, 2010 – M E D I A R E L E A S E

CONTACT: Lida Quillen
Email: publisher@twilighttimes.com
Website: www.twilighttimesbooks.com

For Immediate Release

Slip, slide into the World of Book Reviewing

Enjoy reading and discussing books, why not expand your canvas and slip, slide into the world of book reviewing. How does one write a review and gain recognition one may ask? The Slippery Art of Book Reviewing by Mayra Calvani and Anne K. Edwards answers many of your questions along with practical advice which will get you started in no time.

Taking the publishing world by storm, The Slippery Art of Book Reviewing first edition quickly became a must have reference tool for new and seasoned book reviewers. The authors acknowledged the fact our high speed information world changes in a nanosecond and embarked on their quest to update The Slippery Art of Book Reviewing and have released the newly revised and updated edition.

Reviews from well established and respected book reviewers continue to pour in:

“The Slippery Art of Book Reviewing should be considered mandatory reading for novice and aspiring book reviewers, as well as having a great deal of enduring value as a reference for even the more experienced reviewer. Additionally, The Slippery Art of Book Reviewing will provide to be informed and informative reading about the book review process for authors, publishers, publicists, booksellers, librarians, and the general reading public.” Reviewed by James Cox, Editor-in-Chief, Midwest Book Review.

“The Slippery Art… is an invaluable resource for anyone interested in book reviews – writers, reviewers, publishers, publicists, librarians, booksellers and readers.”
Reviewed by Francine Silverman, Editor of The Book Promotion Newsletter

It comes as no surprise The Slippery Art of Book Reviewing has the distinct honor of the ForeWord Best Book of the Year Award and the esteem privilege of being listed as required reading at several American and Dutch universities.

Available:
The Slippery Art of Book Reviewing
Twilight Times Books

http://twilighttimesbooks.com

ISBN: 978-1933353227
Amazon.com, B&N.com, and of course you can order through your local independent book store.

Anne K. Edwards is an award-winning multi-genre author, reviewer and editor of Voice in the Dark Ezine. Her latest novel is the suspense thriller, Shadows Over Paradise, just released by Twilight Times Books. Visit her website at www.MysteryFiction.net.

Award-winning multi-genre author Mayra Calvani writes fiction and nonfiction for children and adults. She reviews for SimplySharly.com, The NY Journal of Books and Blogcritics Magazine. She’s had over 300 articles, reviews, interviews and stories published online. Visit her website at www.MayraCalvani.com.

Full Media Kit, Headshot, Book Cover Art and more are available upon request.

Don't have time to write and post your media releases? Contact: Dynamic
Media Release Services: http://www.donnamcdine.com/dynamicmediareleases.html

The Versatile Blogger Award

2010-07-02T12:13:00.000-07:00

I was truly honored and floored today when I read Vivian Zabel's post and realized she just awarded me the Versatile Blogger Award. Thank you, Vivian.The award, however, comes with some work and rules, however:

1. Thank those who loved me enough to bestow this gift.
2. Share seven things about myself.
3. Bestow this honor onto 15 newly discovered or followed bloggers–in no particular order–who are fantastic in some way.
4. Drop by and let my fifteen new friends know I love them.

Wow, easy enough...yeah right. There are so many bloggers that I love but first my seven shared things about myself:

1- I joke about feeding my kids Kelloggs everyday. The truth is I feed it to them every second day.

2- Many think of me as an angel but I can be a bad ass if I wanted to but choose NOT to be one.

3- I cry often not because it helps to clear my eyes but because I miss my dad horribly.

4- One person almost completely destroyed my passion for this writing world but thanks to many cyber friends I quickly snapped out of it.

5- I detest, hate, completely toss my guts continuously whenever I hear or read how an author was dissed by a publisher or editor.

6- I now delete emails and do not bother answering writers who feel the need to bash me because I am offering too many workshops, offer it for free, or believe they have every right to have access to the Muse Online Writers Conference a day before it begins.

7- I am one person--not twins or triplets, but one person who has decided that life is too short to bother with ignoramuses and wants to be there for as many writers as possible while my eyesight and sanity is still in tact.

And now for the 15 blogs that I feel deserve this award:

1- Kat Holmes who openly helps promote fellow authors, regardless which house they belong to.
2- Ginger Simpson because she's down to earth and a hoot!
3- Krista D. Ball because her posts are really off the wall at times.
4- Penny Ehrenkranz because she openly invites and hosts authors with a big heart.
5- Roseanne Dowell because she's fiesty, and speaks her mind, and I don't want to get caught in the crossfire. GRIN
6- Rebecca R. Russell because her marketing level surpasses my energy
7- Karen McGrath because she has a good blog but needs this award to move on it more. GRIN
8- Lin Holmes because I love her monkey and ramblings.
9- Delilah Stephans because I love her oomph and straight in your face post about ebook piracy that everyone should read.
10- Rhobin Courtright because her ramblings are about this and that, a great and different read.

11- Chastity Bush because she's just too damn cute.
12- Donna McDine because she's so diligent in whatever she does and deserves this award.
13- J. Kennedy because this woman is the inspiration to many.
14- Karen Cioffi because she works hard at anything that she does.
And #15 is a combo because I couldn't decide but have to give kudos to the writers of the Muse in both divisions for their constant and interesting blog postings on:
MuseItUp
MuseItHOT

Again thank you Vivian for this award and I'll now hop on these blogs and surprise my own winners.

Lea

Balancing the Writer’s Life and Mama’s Life

2010-07-01T14:16:00.001-07:00

M E D I A R E L E A S E

CONTACT: Donna M. McDine
Children’s Author
Email: dmcdine@optonline.net
Phone: 845-721-7802

For Immediate Release

Balancing the Writer’s Life and Mama’s Life

Balance, balance, and some more balance. To find it at times with (as many fellow writers) the responsibilities of wife, mother, daughter, friend and my work as a virtual assistant can be quite daunting at times.

Visit with Donna McDine through her charismatic interview by freelance author, VS Grenier on Friday, July 2 at: http://thewritingmama.blogspot.com/.

Stop by for a spell and enjoy the chance to get to know this up and coming children’s author. Donna will be on hand throughout the day to field your questions and to respond to your comments.

Thank you for your interest.

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The Gods Are Coming Contest

2010-06-26T06:31:00.000-07:00

Lin Holmes has a The Gods Are Coming Contest going on in her blog. Kat Holmes has a series out with Red Rose Publishing and all you have to do is figure out who the next God in her series will be.

CHECK IT OUT

New Children's Book Explores Big Changes in a Child's Life

2010-06-25T14:47:00.000-07:00

Young Ruthie’s mood changed overnight, her smiles slunk off in gloom.

She wouldn’t talk to Mom or Dad. She refused to leave her room.

Her parents scolded, begged and coaxed, but Ruthie paid no mind,

Her moods grew big and ugly, like some Hippo’s fat behind!

Thus begins this humorous rhyming picture book about the effect that a major change can have in a child’s life and the selfless love that can bring about healing and joy once again.

Ruthie isn’t happy—not happy at all. In fact, she feels as big and ugly as a hippo’s fat behind. That’s because she’s moved house, and that means leaving her old home and her best friend behind. It also means fitting in a new school and going through the stress of making new friends, something Ruthie isn’t willing to do.

Her parents try many things to make Ruthie feel better, but nothing seems to work. One thing is for sure: Ruthie is getting from bad to worse. She hates her dad’s jokes; she hates her mom; she refuses to do her chores. She even decides to dress like a crazy person, with a wild hairdo and socks that don’t match, anything to show her anger, sadness and frustration. Then one day, while Ruthie is sitting alone on the porch, she receives a visit from an unexpected guest and this changes her life forever, transforming her back into the caring, affectionate child she originally was. Want to know who that unexpected visitor is? You’ll have to read the story to find out!

Ruthie and the Hippo’s Fat Behind will keep young readers giggling until the end. It is a funny, sweet story of change, one most children will relate to. Author Margot Finke has a gift for rhyme and it shows in the smoothness and wittiness of her verses. Oregonian artist K.C. Snider’s illustrations add their own touch of humor, complementing the tone and mood of Ruthie’s tale.

A parent-teacher guide at the end of the book will make discussing the story and exploring its theme easier. I highly recommend reading this to a child who has recently experience a ‘big change,’ such as moving house, welcoming a new sibling or step parent into a home, or going into a new school.

Ruthie and the Hippo’s Fat Behind

By Margot Finke

Guardian Angel Publishing

Print ISBN 13: 978-1-61633-059-0
eBook ISBN 13: 978-1-61633-060-6

For ages 5-12

Author’s website: http://margotfinke.com

Guardian Angel Publishing
http://www.guardianangelpublishing.com/ruthie.htm

Amazon: http://www.amazon.com/s/ref=nb_sb_noss?url=search-alias%3Dus-stripbooks-tree&field-keywords=Margot+Finke&x=23&y=16

Also available from Powell’s, Target, B&N and most online retailers.

Watch the trailer: http://mysite.ncnetwork.net/restbcm8/Book%20Trailers.htm#slide

About the author: Margot Finke is an Aussie transplant who writes mid grade adventure fiction and rhyming picture books. She lives in Oregon with her husband and family. Read Rattlesnake Jam, a picture book published by Guardian Angel and coming soon, Taconi and Claude: Double Trouble, a midgrade adventure for boys set in the Aussie outback.Her seven book “Wild and Wonderful” rhyming PB series (Writer’s Exchange), is fun and educational.

Told in rhyme, they introduce children to cool animals from the US and Australia. Find purchase information about all Margot’s books at: http://www.margotfinke.com

Margot’s Musings column, and website, offer help for new children’s writers. Her Manuscript Critique Service helps writers iron out beginner problems. Nothing gives her a greater thrill than discovering a book she helped a writer polish has been published. mfinke@verizon.net Margot says “I love hearing from kids.”

Children's Author Nicole Weaver Donates Proceeds to Earthquake Victims

2010-06-24T01:10:00.000-07:00

Nicole Weaver is a teacher, freelance writer and children's author. Her first picture book, Marie and Her Friend the Sea Turtle, is written in three languages: English, French and Spanish, and was inspired by the author's childhood experience in the beaches in Haiti. Nicole was devastated by the recent Haiti earthquake and is donating part of the proceeds of her book to help victims. In this interview, Nicole talks about her book and what she's been doing to create awareness and raise money for the Lambi Fund of Haiti.

Thanks you for this interview, Nicole. When did you start writing for children?

I started writing for children five years ago. Prior to that I primarily wrote poetry and short stories. It is my heart desire to continue writing tri-lingual children's picture books that portray all children of color in a positive light. I remember asking myself why the children in the books I read were not the same color as me. I feel this is my second calling in life. In six years, I will retire from teaching so I can write fulltime.

Tell us about your children’s book, Marie and her Friend the Sea Turtle. What inspired you to write it?

When I was a little girl, I lived near the beach in Haiti. Sea turtles came to shore to lay their eggs. I took daily walks along the shore to collect seashells, low and behold out of the blue I came across this huge sea turtle. At the age of ten I moved to America where I got hooked on reading picture books. After reading so many books I daydreamed of writing a picture book of my own one day. I attended several workshops for writers, it was there I learned that I should focus my writing on personal experiences. The memory of seeing the sea turtle was still very vivid , it was then I decided to write a book about what I saw on the beach so many years ago.

Your book is written in English, French and Spanish, making it quite educational linguistically. What compelled you to do this?

I was compelled to write the book in English, French and Spanish because I am fluent in all three languages. Since I am a French and Spanish teacher I am passionate about finding ways to expose young children to a foreign language. A child’s mind is wired to master a language very naturally at a young age. A tri-lingual book will help expose a child to two new languages, it is a good way to garner interest for other languages and cultures.

What is the main message children will learn from this book?

I tried to convey the importance of friendship and showing compassion for someone in need of help. It also has themes of love and a family coming together to make a sound decision and respecting nature.

I understand you’re donating part of the proceeds from this book to the Lambi Fund of Haiti as a way to help earthquake victims. Please tell us about this.

My mother lost thirteen cousins in the earthquake . Shortly after the earthquake the superintendent of the school district where I have been teaching for twenty years sought my help. I volunteered to do a press conference with the local media.

Many schools participated and hosted bake sales which raised Several thousand dollars . All the proceeds were donated to the Red Cross and the Lambi Fund of Haiti. Lambi Fund provides financial resources that promote social and economic empowerment of the Haitian people. After the initial fundraising with my school district I wanted to continue to help make a difference. I read Malaak Compton-Rock’s book “If It Takes a Village, Build One,” She inspired me and made me realize it is the little things we do that can make a huge difference in the life of someone. It is always a challenge to find ways to become globally responsible citizens , the earthquake propelled me into action. I am taking Malaak’s suggestions very seriously; I am using what I love to do to help benefit Haiti. I have a second children book, written in English, French and Spanish due to be published in 2011 by Guardian Angel Publishing. I will be donating proceeds from that book as well.

For more information about the Lambi Fund , readers can go to www. lambifund.org or email Karen Ashmore, executive director at Karen@lambifund.org

The illustrations in the book were done by fine artist Ruben Chavez. How was your experience working with an illustrator? Did you have input in the artwork? Do you think he captured the mood and tone of the book?

I had a great time working with Ruben, he did a great job capturing the mood and tone of the book. I collaborated with Ruben to make sure the little girl would be representative of not only Haiti but could possibly be from any place in the Caribbean or Spanish speaking countries in South America. I wanted to reach many cultures from around the globe.

Do you have a website and/or blog where readers may learn more about you and your work?

Yes I do, readers can go to the following sites to learn more about me and my work:

http://outskirtspress.com/nicoleweaver

http://www.authorsden.com/nicoleweaver

http://www.jacketflap.com/basket

http://associatedcontent.com/nicoleweaver

http://readyabletolearnfrenchspanish.blogspot.com

http://support4usparentsofhaitianorphans.blogspot.com

Any last words to our readers?

I want all readers to understand that I am very serious about helping with relief efforts for my native Haiti. Every little bit helps no matter how small . It is my earnest desire to continue to write children’s books that will promote language acquisition and other cultures. Readers, I invite you to read the article written about me in my local newspaper March 20th, 2010: Thank you in advance for supporting Haiti relief efforts.

Thanks for the interview, Nicole.

Read a newspaper article about Nicole and her efforts to help Haiti on the Littleton Independent.

Margot Finke talks about "Ruthie and the Hippo's Fat Behind"

2010-06-23T13:01:00.000-07:00

A native of Australia, Margot Finke is a freelance editor and children's author. She specializes in fun rhyming books for kids, as well as in stories for reluctant readers, especially boys. Her latest picture book is the hilarious Ruthie and the Hippo's Fat Behind, recently released by Guardian Angel Publishing. She now lives in Oregon, where she continues creating entertaining stories for children. To find out more about her work and manuscript critique services, visit her website.

About the book:

When Ruthie moved, she left all her friends and family behind. She left her old happy self behind too. She sulked, was rude to her parents, and threw tantrums. What had happened to their darling girl? Then, something unexpected surprised Ruthie, and their happy child returned. Find out what made Ruthie her old self again. (Parent-Teacher guide included.)

Watch the trailer.

Ruthie and the Hippo's Fat Behind is available from the author's website, Guardian Angel Publishing, Powell's, Amazon.

Thanks for being my guest today, Margot. Tell us, what got you into writing for children?

Many years ago, when we first arrived here in Oregon from Australia, my three children were young. I became a grade school Teacher’s Aid.

The kids thought I talked funny, and I told them it was because I was an Aussie from Down-under. They asked about OZ, and so I started telling them about the fantastic variety of unique Aussie critters. I would pin a map of Australian animals on the classroom wall, and make up stories about various ones. I also did this for my children each night, right off the top of my head.

After a while, I found I had to write them down, because the kids asked for story repeats, and I had no idea what I’d said the first time around. My writing grew from that small beginning, into my “ Wild and Wonderful” rhyming series, about animals from the US and Australia, and two other books: “Rattlesnake Jam” ( for boys), and my latest, “Ruthie and the Hippo’s Fat Behind,” for girls. Nine picture books in all + another PB coming, and a mid-grade adventure in the Aussie outback ( for boys) due late next month.

Tell us about your latest children’s picture book, Ruthie and the Hippo’s Fat Behind. What inspired you to write it and how did you come up with that title?

Like my other picture books, “Ruthie” is in rhyme. Now I have a confession to make – rhyme is easy for me. I think I double dipped when they handed out the rhyming gene! Kids today deal with a lot of change – divorce, a move, the death of a loved one etc.

So the idea for “Ruthie,” and that scene stealing pink hippo, came to me late one night in bed – like many of my nuttiest story ideas! These two lines, from the first verse, set the story in my mind:

Her parents scolded, begged and coaxed, but Ruthie paid no mind,
Her moods grew big and ugly - like some Hippo's fat behind."

I wanted a fast paced rhyme that was fun to read and visualize, yet also kid and parent friendly. As a teacher’s aid, I discovered that words in rhyme stick with children longer than those in plain text, especially if there is humor involved. Hey! Don’t all authors want their words to be remembered?

Ruthie is an entertaining, fun story told in rhyme yet it offers an important, powerful message. What will children learn from this book?

I am so happy you think so. Yes, I do admit to being a bit sneaky when I wrote “Ruthie.” The disruption of “big change” often plays a huge roll in family life. Children and parents cope far better if they talk together about any coming changes: or encourage children to share their feelings after a sudden big change.

Adding the Parent-Teacher guide opens a window for parents and teachers to ask children how they feel about Ruthie, her parents, and her bratty behavior. If children identify with Ruthie, and share their feelings, the frustration and anger that big change often brings, will shrink to a more manageable size.

I understand the book comes with a Parent-Teacher guide. Is this guide included in the book or available from your website?

Yes, the Parent-Teacher guide is included in the back of the book.
There is an excellent review for “Ruthie” on Jill Osborne’s “Writing and Play Therapy” Page: http://www.jillosborne.org/

Jill is a licensed child therapist.

The artwork in the book was done by award-winning illustrator and fine artist K.C. Snider. How was your experience working with an illustrator?

K.C. was a joy to work with. We chatted back and forth about every illustration, and she was very open to the suggestions I offered. And this is not always the case. Some illustrators like to live in their ivory tower: incommunicado! K.C’s talent is awesome – as is the cool pink hippo that steals the whole book. Her cover art says it all!!

You also offer manuscript critiques to writers. How can readers learn more about your editorial services?

Thanks to the internet, my website, and two blogs, I receive Manuscript Critique requests from clients in many different countries. Unfortunately, some are not ready for a professional critique. These I advise, as gently as possible, to keep writing and rewriting, read many more books, and learn basic grammar and writing skills. Join a private critique group if at all possible.

However, many clients simply need some guidance, or clues about tightening and polishing their chapters or pages. Some critiques are done quickly, while other manuscripts take time and patience from both myself and my client. Yet it is the end result that counts. Nothing gives me more of a thrill than to hear that a client’s book has been published. Manuscript Critique Service – details:
http://mysite.ncnetwork.net/mfinke/Manuscript Critique.htm

Do you have a website and/or blog where readers may learn more about you and your work?

Find Books, Writing Help + Manuscript Critique Service, on my WEBSITE DIRECTORY.

HOOK KIDS on READING:
http://hookkidsonreading.blogspot.com/

Margot’s Book for Kids + Writing News: http://margotfinke.blogsopot.com/

Any last words to our readers?

Boys are more likely to be reluctant readers. They WILL read, if you find them fun stories with macho action and great humor. I discovered this years ago, when my son did not want to read. My HOOK KIDS on READING offers boy friendly titles.

AND: “Taconi and Claude – Double Trouble,” my coming Aussie adventure, offers action, danger, boy style humor + plus a crazed emu, and all the yabbies, snake, and witchetty grubs a boy could eat.

Thanks for taking the time to interview me, Mayra.

Thanks, Margot!

Article first published as Interview with Margot Finke, author of Ruthie and the Hippo's Fat Behind on Blogcritics.

Does Perseverance pay in the End for Children’s Authors?

2010-06-16T07:53:00.001-07:00

M E D I A R E L E A S E

CONTACT: Donna M. McDine

Children’s Author

Email: dmcdine@optonline.net

Phone: 845-721-7802

For Immediate Release

Does Perseverance pay in the End for Children’s Authors?

An author’s dream is to impact their readers in positive thought provoking words, whether writing for adults or children. When children’s author, Donna McDine, first embarked on her writing career in 2007 she dreamed of the day a child would feel the wow factor through her storytelling. And much to her delight she received those encouraging words from several young muses early in the writing stages of The Golden Pathway.

Visit with Donna McDine through her charismatic interview by freelance author, Nancy Sanders on Friday, June 18 at:

http://nancyisanders.wordpress.com/2010/06/18/author-interview-donna-m-mcdine/.

Stop by for a spell and enjoy the chance to get to know this up and coming children’s author. Donna will be on hand throughout the day to field your questions and to respond to your comments.

Thank you for your interest.

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Nonfiction-10 Secrets to a Winning Book Proposal Webinar

2010-06-14T15:25:00.000-07:00

Register today to attend this live webinar!
Session date: Thursday, June 17, 2010
Starting time: 1:00 pm Eastern
Duration: 90 minutes
Each registration comes with access to the archived version of the program and the materials for 1 year.

Description

Every year, qualified writers with worthy books find themselves left by the wayside because they neglect the vital step of creating an effective book proposal before submitting their work. The principals in this workshop are designed to empower every writer who employs them with the ability to leave fantasies of success behind in favor of securing a real-world publishing contract from a mainstream publishing house.

For more information and what you'll learn please visit Writer's Digest.

Come Discover What or Whom is Splish-Splashing through Cyberspace

2010-06-07T09:08:00.000-07:00

M E D I A R E L E A S E

CONTACT: Beth Bence Reinke, Author and Registered Dietitian

Email: rdwriter@hotmail.com

Website: http://www.bethbencereinke.com/

For Immediate Release

Come Discover What or Whom is Splish-Splashing through Cyberspace

Take a moment to listen for splish-splashing sounds taking over cyberspace. Don’t worry, it won’t damage your computer. What is the source, you may ask? It’s a children’s book entitled, In My Bath by author Beth Bence Reinke.

Join in the virtual book tour introducing an imaginative little boy and all kinds of water-loving animals. Is there room for all in the tub? Find out for yourself through their adventures in cyberspace:

June 8 – Jo Ramsey http://www.joramsey.com/?page_id=9

June 9 – Donna McDine http://www.donna-mcdine.blogspot.com/

June 21 – Amy Allgeyer Cook http://lux-st-clare.blogspot.com/

June 23 – Rena Jones http://renajjones.blogspot.com/

June 25 – Nancy Sharpe http://cybrarianbookreviews.blogspot.com/ (book review) and http://nasharpe.blogspot.com/ (interview)

June 28 – Lori Calabrese http://loricalabrese.com/blog

June 30 - Beverly Stowe McClure http://beverlystowemcclure.blogspot.com/ (book review & interview)

July 1 - Scott Heydt http://scotthbooks.blogspot.com/ and http://blog.scotthbooks.com/

July 5 – Danika Dinsmore http://www.theaccidentalnovelist.wordpress.com/

July 7 – Miriam Forster http://msforster.blogspot.com/

July 9 – Carla Mooney http://carlamooney.livejournal.com/

Be sure to post your comments and/or questions for Ms. Reinke. She will be on hand each day to interact with you.

Beth Bence Reinke is an author and registered dietitian. She writes children’s books, devotional books and articles about food and nutrition. Beth’s professional affiliations include The American Dietetic Association and The Society of Children’s Book Writers and Illustrators. She is also a member of Indie-Debut 2010, a group of first-time authors who help promote each other’s books that hail from independent publishers. In My Bath is Beth’s first children’s book.

Author: Beth Bence Reinke

Website: http://www.bethbencereinke.com/

Food and Faith blog: http://www.bethbencereinke.com/foodandfaith

Beth’s Book Basket blog: http://bethbencereinke.com/bethsbookbasket

E-mail: rdwriter@hotmail.com

Illustrator: Ginger Nielson

Website: http://www.gingernielson.com/

Blog: http://www.gingerpixels.blogspot.com/

Publisher: 4RV Publishing http://www.4rvpublishingllc.com/

Thank you in advance for your interest.

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Ebooks

2010-06-04T09:22:00.000-07:00

There are many who still don't believe that e-books will make it in this business. I hate to disappoint but e-books are gaining popularity fast and steady, especially with the introduction of so many handheld readers now open to readers to purchase, upload hundreds of books, and carry it with them wherever they go.

Here's a link with a recent survey that you may find interesting on the % of readers who read e-books on what e-reader: READ ARTICLE

I have a Sony e-Reader and love it. Although a bit pricey I figure the $ I saved purchasing print books comes to about an even level. Also, the fact I can upload and have at least 300 books to read and not worry if I grabbed enough books for a trip...well, what can I say. I love my Sony e-Reader.

How many of you own an e-reader? Which one? What positive or negative do you have to say about them?

Beating Blogger’s Block: Five Tips for Rebooting Your Brain

2010-06-03T09:46:00.000-07:00

Whether you’re just starting out on your journey to a truly legendary blog, or you’ve been working at it for awhile, you may already be aware of the horrifying phenomenon known as blogger’s block, which can strike even the most prolific of bloggers without notice. It’s possible you’ve even fallen prey to this mysterious malady, which can last minutes, hours, or days (some authors even admit to suffering from writer’s block for years at a time, but let’s not think about that). Maybe you get to the computer screen and let the blank page psyche you out. Or maybe you have so many ideas whirling around in your noggin that you simply freeze up at the thought of trying to pick one and develop it. Whatever the case, there is help for the blogger in serious need of a reboot. Here are a few tips to get you back on the proverbial horse.

1.    Set a schedule. Treating your blog as a job rather than a hobby may be the key to success. So set up a time to write each day to get yourself in the habit. Even if you need to engage in other types of writing, just putting pen to paper (or fingers to keyboard) will get the creative juices flowing. You also need to set a hard deadline for posting, and you should try to squeeze in at least one a week. As you become more practiced, you can increase the number of posts.

2.    Stop staring. Looking at a blank screen is a great way to fill your mind with…blankness. So if you find you spent the last ten minutes staring, fingers poised above the keyboard, with nothing to show for it but eye strain and a cramp in your hand, walk away. Take a break. Get a snack. Indulge in some daytime TV or a little light reading, then return to try again. Sometimes just a few minutes of thinking about something else can help you reset your brain.

3.    Ask questions. Some good ones are: What are my interests and how can I incorporate them in my blog? What am I trying to say? What do I want others to get from my blog? Who is my target audience? What would they like to read? What would I like to read? What are other bloggers saying about my topic? Figuring out the basis for your interest in a topic, as well as what you want to convey and to whom is a good way to get yourself back on track when you stray into the gray areas. It’s like the through-line of a story, everything has to relate back to one main idea.

4.    Get outside help. Read books and magazines. Watch TV shows and YouTube. Listen to new music. Go to museums and art galleries. Whatever you can do to consume other types of media will only serve to inspire you in your writing, so spice up your entertainment and explore new avenues of input. You are bound to find something exciting to blog about if you’re constantly plugged in to the pulse of pop culture.

5.    Be creative. This may sound ridiculously simple, but it isn’t. Forcing yourself to exercise creativity is such an ambiguous idea that it can be nearly impossible to implement. Luckily, there are forms to get you started. If you hit a road block with your blog, you must try writing something else. Whether it’s a short story, an essay, or some strictly formatted poetry, you need to keep writing in order to keep writing (it’s sort of a self-fulfilling prophecy). Even if you just do a free-write and nothing comes out but rubbish, it’s still better than allowing yourself to be intimidated by a blank page.

If you just can’t seem to get the ball rolling, no matter what you do, there are still a couple of options available to you. You can start by taking a creative writing class, which will teach you to get in the mindset of a writer. You can also do a web search for writing prompts. There are dozens of websites to help you get started. And if nothing seems to be helping, consider seeking some help from guest blogger’s to cover you for awhile until you get back on your feet. Many will offer free content for nothing more than including a link back to their own site. Keep in mind that writer’s block is a temporary condition. It will probably go away when you stop worrying about it, so if you can’t force it, just wait for inspiration to strike and keep a notebook handy. It could happen at any time and you want to be prepared.

Alexis Montgomery is a content writer for Online Degree, where you can browse through various online degree programs to find a college that suits your needs.

MuseItHOT! Publishing: Tears on a Tranquil Lake now has a cover!

2010-05-13T18:21:00.000-07:00

MuseItHOT! Publishing: Tears on a Tranquil Lake now has a cover!

My Light Submission Call

2010-04-26T08:07:00.000-07:00

May/June 2010 Submission Call

Thanks to all who are helping My Light Magazine! If you are an illustrator and would like to contribute, send an e-mail to mylightmagazine@msn.com or editor@mylightmagazine.com

Authors! For our May/June issue we are still in need of:

• Mother’s day or Father’s day poems, poems on Mary or Poems on God the Father (and priests as well).

• If you have inspiration to write a poem about Pope Benedict XVI, that would be EXCELLENT! He needs our encouragement and prayers.

• Crafts for May and June’s theme.

• Articles for all ages for May and June’s themes.

To submit your pieces, please send the submissions to the above e-mail addresses. Thank you and God Bless!

Some Updates on My Light Magazine

2010-04-23T09:12:00.000-07:00

My Light Magazine, a Catholic children's free e-zine for children has some updates.

First - My Light is looking for a new Art Director and possibly an assistant.

Here's the info:

Be a Part of the My Light Team!

Art Director for My Light Magazine

JOB SUMMARY:

The Art Director at My Light Magazine is responsible for acquiring and coordinating illustrations for poems, stories and articles. Organizational skills and follow up skills are a must.

The Art Director realizes this, as other positions at My Light Magazine, are on a volunteer basis for now.

DUTIES:

• Recruit new illustrators

• Coordinate illustrators with manuscripts

• Follow up with illustrators who agree to illustrate a manuscript

• Send illustrations to Editor-in-Chief

• Perform other duties as needed

If interested, please contact Editor-in-Chief, Jennifer Gladen at

mylightmagazine@msn.com or editor@mylightmagazine.com

Second: My Light recognizes the time and energy of all our volunteers should be honored and respected. That is why we are still striving to become a paying market. One way we hope to do this is to participate in the I Give program.

Supporters sign up at I Give.com and choose My Light Catholic Magazine as their cause. When they do this and shop via store links on I Give, a percentage of your purchases goes to My Light. Also - there's a way to support us without spending one dime! All you have to do is use the ISearchIGive search engine when you are signed in to I Give and My Light will receive 1 penny - sometimes more - per search you do. Here's an easy way to sign up and help us:

http://www.iGive.com/welcome/warmwelcome.cfm?c=47177&m=573204

Also - there's a special promotion going on now offering more help for the magazine. Click here for more details

GAP Family Blog Believes In Changing the World by Investing In Children One Child at a Time

2010-04-06T13:06:00.001-07:00

To engage a child in the wonders of learning about the world through reading is an important routine a parent/guardian needs to instill in their child. By introducing the author and/or illustrator behind the creations of their favorite books it will provide a timeless connection for the child.

Visit the GAP Family Blog often and discover their latest featured interview at: http://www.guardianangelfamily.blogspot.com/.

Encourage your child (or yourself) to leave comments and/or questions for the featured guest and to check back for their response. Be sure to use this terrific opportunity to have your child meet an author or illustrator they may not have the chance to meet in person.

Visit children’s author, Donna McDine on Wednesday, April 7th. She will be checking in throughout the day and evening to field your questions and/or comments.

Thank you in advance for your interest.

New Kid On The Block

2010-03-20T16:09:00.000-07:00

There's a new kid on the block: MuseItUp Publishing.

Submissions are now open. Website will be unveiled in April, and launch is set for December 2010.

Indie-Debut – Continues to Celebrate Small Press Month

2010-03-15T13:59:00.000-07:00

M E D I A R E L E A S E

CONTACT: Amy Allgeyer Cook, Author

Email: amyacook@live.com

For Immediate Release

Indie-Debut – Continues to Celebrate Small Press Month

The celebration of Small Press Month continues at Indie-Debut 2010 http://indiedebut2010.blogspot.com/.

Even if you missed the first week of exciting events, do not fret, our goal at the Indie-Debut 2010 continues to provide intuitive interviews, hot discussion topics, excerpts of soon to be released books, and contests. Come on over and participate in lively discussions and learn more about the latest giveaway. You will not be disappointed.

Highlights for the week of March 14, 2010:

Mon, March 15:

SPOTLIGHT: Jo Ramsey

QUESTION OF THE WEEK GIVEAWAY: Do you feel small presses are the wave of the future? Join in the discussion by leaving a comment be automatically entered to win a First Chapter Critique by Indie-Debut Authors.

Tues, March 16:

Jupiter Gardens with Jo Ramsey

Wed, March 17:

ST. PATRICK'S DAY PROMPT: What would you want to see in the Leprechaun's pot?

DISCUSSION: Where do you prefer to purchase your books? Online, the big guys...Barnes Noble, etc., or Independently Owned Bookstores? Join in the discussion by leaving a comment be automatically entered to win a First Chapter Critique by Indie-Debut Authors.

Thurs, March 18:

INTERVIEW: Lisa Cottrell-Bently and Wright on Time by Lori Calabrese

Fri, March 19:

SPOTLIGHT: Donna McDine and announcement of the First Chapter Critique Winner

Thank you in advance for your interest. We look forward to your visit.

Be sure to check back for next week’s schedule.

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More information is available upon request electronically.

Meet Katie Hines

2010-03-05T04:28:00.000-08:00

I have the pleasure today of interviewing and hosting someone I've known for a while. I've watched her career blossom and can't say enough good things about Katie Hines, author of Guardian published by 4RV Publishing.

BLURB: Imagine you have made a secret promise that can lead you to the discovery of an incredible treasure and an ancient power. But in order to fulfill that promise, you must defeat an age-old sect that is determined to claim the treasure and power themselves.

Drew Newman is ready to tell his friends a secret, but two strangers burst on the scene, demanding an ancient, magical, book. He plummets into a world of uncertainty and fear as his home is invaded and he desperately tries to find the book.

Aided by the mysterious Jean-Paul, Drew’s search takes him and friends to Oak Island, Nova Scotia, where he continues his search. Joined with his Grandpa Ian and cousin, Zea, the tension ratchets up when Drew is kidnapped and he encounters the head of a sect that wants the book, a magical talisman and a treasure, for themselves.

Sprinkled with magic, “Guardian” explores the commitment of a boy determined to fulfill his promise to his mother and claim an uncertain destiny.

Where did the inspiration to write The Guardian come from?

First, I think you have to have an inspiration to write any book. I was actively looking for a basis, a foundation, for my novel. My husband and I both went online and did some searching, and finally came across the Oak Island treasure story. It immediately struck me that this was what I was looking for, and it became a part of Guardian.

How long did it take you to write it and what obstacles to you meet during the writing process. Please explain.

It took me 3 years to write, and that includes the months I put it aside because I was weary of it. Familiarity did not breed contempt, but it did make me turn my attention to other things while I set it aside. But it was always in the back of my mind, worrying about parts I needed help on.

I knew the ending, and I knew the beginning, but there were times when the middle was very challenging. I knew that my poor protagonist was going to get into troubles galore, and I had fun writing about those, but even then, there were times where I got stuck with what I wanted to do next. My husband was a great help to me during those times, and my greatest support.

How supportive has your family been during the long hours writing your novel?

My husband has been fantastic. I credit him as a springboard for a lot of the ideas I used in the book. My kids were great, too. My youngest read the whole book through and was good about pointing out where my “kids” didn’t sound like kids, so I was able to make a lot of changes to that, too.

If you could step into any famous author's shoes, who would it be and why?

Terry Brooks, fantasy author extraordinaire. He began with writing the Shannara stories, and continued on and on and on with incredible vividness, fresh stories, and an amazing imagination. I would want to be him because it would mean that my imagination and writing abilities were top notch.

For those who are in the process or thinking of writing a middle grade novel, what advice would you give them?

Where to start? As with anything you write, know your subject and your audience. If you’re writing for kids, you should know about kids and what they like to read. You should make your story matter to them, but you should also write what’s in your heart/head. And of course, write, write, write.

What other projects do you have in the works now?

I am working on another middle grade urban fantasy, a young adult novel, and two chapter books.

Excerpt:

“This is a secret meeting,” Drew Newman whispered as he pulled his letterman’s jacket close about his lean runner’s body. He sat perched on a log beside the crackling fire at the edge of his backyard. His green eyes darted back and forth between his two friends. “You can’t tell anyone what we’re going to talk about.”

“Dude, I’m a ‘real man.’ Of course I can keep a secret.” Javon Manson ground out an ember that popped from the fire. He fiddled with his do-rag and dreadlocks threatened to spill out. He shifted his muscular body as he tried to find a comfortable position on his log.

Mattie Royz shivered as a chill wind tossed her red hair into blue eyes. She pulled her windbreaker tight around her petite, slightly plump frame. “Oh my gosh, Javon, you are so lame. I’m not a ‘real man,’ but I can keep a secret, too.”

“All right.” Drew slid the marshmallow off his roasting stick and popped it in his mouth. Hearing a noise, he turned toward the trees that stood beyond the flickering light of the fire.

At that moment, a tall, broad man carrying a sword stepped from the night’s shadows and approached the teens, a dark hood hiding his face. A gust of wind brought the smell of rain and tossed his long, black cloak aside, revealing a pristine white tunic. A red sash belted his waist.

Drew sucked in his breath as the man cat-walked up to him, sword held at his side.

“Stand up,” the man commanded, pointing his sword at Drew. Shaking, Drew gulped and stood, then tripped on a loose shoestring.

“Stand up,” the man said. When Drew stood, the man lifted the tip of his sword to Drew’s chin. “Where is it?”

“Where is what?”

“Don’t trifle with me. Where is the book?”

Drew was so nervous he couldn’t think. “What book?”

“Yeah, what book,” Javon said, surprising Drew. Drew glanced at Javon and Mattie, who had come to stand beside him, nervously shifting from one foot to another.

“Shh,” Drew whispered.

“It’s a very special book,” the man prodded again. “You know which one.”

Drew wiped his sweaty hands on his Levi’s, inhaling the familiar, pungent odor of the campfire. Only one book was special--a journal. His mom’s journal. He’d touched it, and when he’d done so, it had left a peculiar webbed scar on the back of his left hand. She’d cautioned him not to tell anyone about the book or how he’d gotten the scar. Since he had not told anyone about the book, what could this man know of it?

“Are you talking about my mom’s journal?” Drew asked.

“Your mom’s, hmm. Yes, that would be it. Where is it?”

“I don’t know. It must be lost because I haven’t seen it in years.”

“This book is not lost,” the man said, his voice flat and hard.

A second man wearing a black leather jacket and jeans slid out from the night’s shadows. His sword reflected the fire’s flames. The first man withdrew his sword from beneath Drew’s chin, leaned into his friend, and the two men whispered. The interrogator looked at Drew, who shivered in the damp wind. “You are fortunate, young man, that pressing matters require my attention elsewhere. I will see you again.”

At that, he sheathed his sword, and the two men disappeared into the darkness. The three teens stared at each other. Would the men come back? Were they in danger? A soft, cool rain began to fall as Javon hollered, “Run! Run!”

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Website link: http://www.katiehines.com
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Thank you, Katie, for stopping by today. Loved your interview answers, love the cover, love the excerpt, and can't wait to read the book and review it.

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