Lieve Snellings's Blog, page 10
June 5, 2018
An amazing new book review
I am so happy with the book review I received on the blog of Lauren Simone Publishing House today
Specially the fact that they appreciate the photo illustrations in my books. It is something new in the picture book world and it is a real passion to work with photo illustrations.
“… What I enjoyed most was the use of natural photography instead of cartoons or animated illustrations, which were beautifully captured by the author, Lieve Snellings. She is very talented in her ability to tell stories and use different graphics. The book is also filled with many life lessons …”
Click here to read the whole review.
May 30, 2018
Meet Your Next Favorite Author: Maxine Sylvester
I met Maxine Sylvester first in the Facebook group ‘BookGoSocial Children’s Books’. ‘Ronaldo’ is a most exciting fairytale. From the first line of the first Ronaldo book, I was totally soaked up, as if I was part of the book myself. I love Maxine Sylvester’s writing style, she is a very gifted storyteller. Her books are funny, so well written, impossible to put aside once you opened, because at the end of every page there is a trigger, it makes[image error] you curious what is going to come next.
I also adore the underlying messages in Maxine Sylvester books. For instance, these strong words from Ronaldo’s grandpa’s, ‘Imagine! See it, feel it, believe it! You can do anything if you truly believe in yourself.’ Isn’t that a precious gift to children? And at no moment it sounded like the author was preaching morals. It just belonged on a natural way to the story.
I am so happy to present you, Maxine Sylvester, today
Can you introduce yourself, what’s your name, where are you from… ?
Hi Lieve, I’m Maxine Sylvester, an author, and illustrator. I was born in London, but now live in Bali, Indonesia.
[image error]
Tell us something unexpected about yourself!
I was attacked by a titan trigger fish while scuba diving in Bali and had to have six stitches in my head.
Give 2 things about yourself that you think matter the most?
Gratitude and kindness. Both are good for the soul.
IDENTITY CARD
[image error]
Do you remember the first book you read?
Winnie the Pooh and the Blustery Day by A.A. Milne.
What makes you laugh/cry?
I saw Game Night at the cinema a few weeks ago and laughed my head off. The news makes me cry.
In which genre do you write?
Middle Grade, Ages 6-9.
What makes your book special, how is it different from other books in your genre? [image error]
Ronaldo is a good role model for children; he’s conscientious and kind, but never boring. Reviewers say the stories are funny and heartwarming, with plenty of laughs for both the young and young at heart. I really hope children will connect with the characters and be inspired by them.
How do you feel when you write, do you have a special ritual?
Sometimes I have a million ideas and can hardly sleep. Other times I can’t think of a thing to write. I take advantage of my good days when I can.
What inspired you to write your first book?
I wanted a reason to illustrate so decided to write a story about a reindeer plush that I have in my bedroom. I stole the idea from A.A. Milne, who wrote about the toys in Christopher Robin’s room.
How did you come up with the title?[image error]
The book is about a flying academy so it was a natural choice.
If you could be any famous book character, who would you be and why?
That’s a difficult question! Probably Hermione from Harry Potter. She’s super smart.
Is there a message in your book that you hope the readers will grasp?
There are messages in all three books. I try to make them subtle, so children don’t think I am preaching or talking down to them. The Reindeer Flying Academy is about believing in yourself and following your dreams. The Phantom Carrot Snatcher and Rudi’s Birthday Extravaganza are about friendship.
What are your top 3 books of all time?
1) Any of the Harry Potter books. I loved them and used to feel like I was picking up an old friend.
2) The Power of Now by Eckhart Tolle. The book was life changing for me.
3) Wishes Fulfilled by Dr. Wayne Dyer. If ever I am feeling down or anxious I pick up a Wayne Dyer book and his gentle words always make me feel better.
How important is marketing and social media for you?
It is essential nowadays. You can self-publish a book, but nobody is going to buy it unless you have a good social networking platform.
Is it important for you to get book reviews? Do you read them?
Reviews are essential. I never book a holiday, go to the cinema or purchase a theatre ticket without checking reviews. It is the same for books. I do read reviews and am always grateful to people for taking time out of their busy day to write them.
What advice do you have for other writers?
To believe in yourself and follow your dreams (it’s what I say to Ronaldo!). Also to take advice from people who have experience in the industry. My editor once annihilated the first draft of one of my books. I was so upset, I couldn’t look at it for a week. When I calmed down I read her comments again. She was 100 percent correct in what she said. I made changes and the book was stronger because of it.
Don’t let fear hold you back. Take a giant leap and be brave. Life is too short, if you have something to say, say it!
Can you give your book information: blurb, link, genre (for children’s book, please tell for what age)
Books
Ronaldo: The Reindeer Flying Academy
Hook: “You can do anything if you truly believe in yourself.”
Blurb: The story tells of Ronaldo, the top flying cadet at the prestigious Reindeer [image error]Flying Academy. He dreams of getting his flying license and becoming one of Santa’s reindeer, just like his hero, Vixen. At flying school, the second year flying cadets face their toughest ever flying test – the endurance challenge. Conditions are grueling for the two-snowflake cadets, but Ronaldo remembers his grandad’s inspiring words: “See it, feel it, believe it! You can do anything if you truly believe in yourself.”
Asin (Amazon): https://www.amazon.com/dp/B0777JFZQR/
Ronaldo: The Phantom Carrot Snatcher
Hook: “Ronaldo’s head was buzzing; he didn’t know what to do. Fly west to break the speed record … or east to save Ernie?”
Blurb: Ronaldo is the top flying cadet at The Reindeer Flying Academy. After the [image error]first of three speed tests, he settles down to enjoy his carrots. But the carrots are gone! The Phantom Carrot Snatcher has struck again. Ronaldo discovers the culprit hiding near his house … and it’s a creature feared by every reindeer to have ever lived – a wolf! But Ernie has lost her pack. And Ronaldo is no ordinary reindeer. He is brave, and together with best friend, Rudi, the two embark on a superhero mission to help the young wolf find her family.
Rudi comes up with a plan to deliver posters to Ernie’s pack during the second speed test at flying school. But Ronaldo isn’t onboard with the idea. He desperately wants to break the speed record and the plan means jeopardising his chance of becoming champion.
Asin (Amazon): https://www.amazon.com/dp/B01N64ZOFF/
Ronaldo: Rudi’s Birthday Extravaganza
Hook: “Ronaldo pictured his classmates splattered over Heigh Ho Hill and Wing Commander Blitsen in floods of tears. Everyone would say it was his fault. He was lead reindeer.”
Blurb: Ronaldo and Rudi are beside themselves with excitement: Monty the Moose, [image error]the most incredible Magician in the whole world is performing at Rudi’s birthday party!
But before the festivities begin, there’s the important matter of The Reindeer Flyover, an ancient tradition of The Reindeer Flying Academy that marks the end of school term. Ronaldo is thrilled to be lead reindeer but his happiness soon turns to dread when he notices Dasher, Comet and Prancer behaving suspiciously. Ronaldo fears the worst. The menacing brothers are going to sabotage the event, leaving him to take the blame.
Asin (Amazon): https://www.amazon.com/dp/B075ZX3H9T/
Here you can read first chapters of each book: www.ronaldotheflyingreindeer.com/first-chapters/
Website: www.ronaldotheflyingreindeer.com
Social Media links:
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/MaxineSylvesterAuthor/
Twitter: @flyingronaldo
Pinterest: https://id.pinterest.com/flyingronaldo/
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/maxinesylvester/
Goodreads: https://www.goodreads.com/author/show/14777128.Maxine_Sylvester
QUICK POP-QUIZ. (You can choose one or both, and please feel free to add a very brief comment)
Snow or sun: Snow
Soccer or (ice) hockey: Soccer
Dogs or cats: Dogs (but not Bali dogs – they chase me on my bike.)
Ice-cream or fruit: Fruit
Fact or fiction: Fiction
Music or silence: Both. I meditate but also love a bit of Guns ‘N’ Roses.
Sport or reading: Both. My dad used to take me to soccer matches as a kid so I do love my English Premier League. But there’s also nothing better than picking up a gripping book.
Sea or mountains: Both are magical.
Groundhogs or squirrels: Groundhogs (because I know you love them!) [image error]
Books or movies: Both. I go to the movies every week but also read every day.
E-book or print: Print. Nothing compares to holding a book in your hands, although I have to admit, when going on holiday a kindle is much lighter in your luggage and takes up less room.
Is there anything more you want to tell your readers?
Thank you to everyone who has either bought or reviewed any of the Ronaldo books. I am very grateful.
Thank you so much Maxine Sylvester!
Maxine Sylvester at Meet Your Next Favorite Author
I met Maxine Sylvester first in the Facebook group ‘BookGoSocial Children’s Books’. ‘Ronaldo’ is a most exciting fairytale. From the first line of the first Ronaldo book, I was totally soaked up, as if I was part of the book myself. I love Maxine Sylvester’s writing style, she is a very gifted storyteller. Her books are funny, so well written, impossible to put aside once you opened, because at the end of every page there is a trigger, it makes[image error] you curious what is going to come next.
I also adore the underlying messages in Maxine Sylvester books. For instance, these strong words from Ronaldo’s grandpa’s, ‘Imagine! See it, feel it, believe it! You can do anything if you truly believe in yourself.’ Isn’t that a precious gift to children? And at no moment it sounded like the author was preaching morals. It just belonged on a natural way to the story.
I am so happy to present you, Maxine Sylvester, today
Can you introduce yourself, what’s your name, where are you from… ?
Hi Lieve, I’m Maxine Sylvester, an author, and illustrator. I was born in London, but now live in Bali, Indonesia.
[image error]
Tell us something unexpected about yourself!
I was attacked by a titan trigger fish while scuba diving in Bali and had to have six stitches in my head.
Give 2 things about yourself that you think matter the most?
Gratitude and kindness. Both are good for the soul.
IDENTITY CARD
[image error]
Do you remember the first book you read?
Winnie the Pooh and the Blustery Day by A.A. Milne.
What makes you laugh/cry?
I saw Game Night at the cinema a few weeks ago and laughed my head off. The news makes me cry.
In which genre do you write?
Middle Grade, Ages 6-9.
What makes your book special, how is it different from other books in your genre? [image error]
Ronaldo is a good role model for children; he’s conscientious and kind, but never boring. Reviewers say the stories are funny and heartwarming, with plenty of laughs for both the young and young at heart. I really hope children will connect with the characters and be inspired by them.
How do you feel when you write, do you have a special ritual?
Sometimes I have a million ideas and can hardly sleep. Other times I can’t think of a thing to write. I take advantage of my good days when I can.
What inspired you to write your first book?
I wanted a reason to illustrate so decided to write a story about a reindeer plush that I have in my bedroom. I stole the idea from A.A. Milne, who wrote about the toys in Christopher Robin’s room.
How did you come up with the title?[image error]
The book is about a flying academy so it was a natural choice.
If you could be any famous book character, who would you be and why?
That’s a difficult question! Probably Hermione from Harry Potter. She’s super smart.
Is there a message in your book that you hope the readers will grasp?
There are messages in all three books. I try to make them subtle, so children don’t think I am preaching or talking down to them. The Reindeer Flying Academy is about believing in yourself and following your dreams. The Phantom Carrot Snatcher and Rudi’s Birthday Extravaganza are about friendship.
What are your top 3 books of all time?
1) Any of the Harry Potter books. I loved them and used to feel like I was picking up an old friend.
2) The Power of Now by Eckhart Tolle. The book was life changing for me.
3) Wishes Fulfilled by Dr. Wayne Dyer. If ever I am feeling down or anxious I pick up a Wayne Dyer book and his gentle words always make me feel better.
How important is marketing and social media for you?
It is essential nowadays. You can self-publish a book, but nobody is going to buy it unless you have a good social networking platform.
Is it important for you to get book reviews? Do you read them?
Reviews are essential. I never book a holiday, go to the cinema or purchase a theatre ticket without checking reviews. It is the same for books. I do read reviews and am always grateful to people for taking time out of their busy day to write them.
What advice do you have for other writers?
To believe in yourself and follow your dreams (it’s what I say to Ronaldo!). Also to take advice from people who have experience in the industry. My editor once annihilated the first draft of one of my books. I was so upset, I couldn’t look at it for a week. When I calmed down I read her comments again. She was 100 percent correct in what she said. I made changes and the book was stronger because of it.
Don’t let fear hold you back. Take a giant leap and be brave. Life is too short, if you have something to say, say it!
Can you give your book information: blurb, link, genre (for children’s book, please tell for what age)
Books
Ronaldo: The Reindeer Flying Academy
Hook: “You can do anything if you truly believe in yourself.”
Blurb: The story tells of Ronaldo, the top flying cadet at the prestigious Reindeer [image error]Flying Academy. He dreams of getting his flying license and becoming one of Santa’s reindeer, just like his hero, Vixen. At flying school, the second year flying cadets face their toughest ever flying test – the endurance challenge. Conditions are grueling for the two-snowflake cadets, but Ronaldo remembers his grandad’s inspiring words: “See it, feel it, believe it! You can do anything if you truly believe in yourself.”
Asin (Amazon): https://www.amazon.com/dp/B0777JFZQR/
Ronaldo: The Phantom Carrot Snatcher
Hook: “Ronaldo’s head was buzzing; he didn’t know what to do. Fly west to break the speed record … or east to save Ernie?”
Blurb: Ronaldo is the top flying cadet at The Reindeer Flying Academy. After the [image error]first of three speed tests, he settles down to enjoy his carrots. But the carrots are gone! The Phantom Carrot Snatcher has struck again. Ronaldo discovers the culprit hiding near his house … and it’s a creature feared by every reindeer to have ever lived – a wolf! But Ernie has lost her pack. And Ronaldo is no ordinary reindeer. He is brave, and together with best friend, Rudi, the two embark on a superhero mission to help the young wolf find her family.
Rudi comes up with a plan to deliver posters to Ernie’s pack during the second speed test at flying school. But Ronaldo isn’t onboard with the idea. He desperately wants to break the speed record and the plan means jeopardising his chance of becoming champion.
Asin (Amazon): https://www.amazon.com/dp/B01N64ZOFF/
Ronaldo: Rudi’s Birthday Extravaganza
Hook: “Ronaldo pictured his classmates splattered over Heigh Ho Hill and Wing Commander Blitsen in floods of tears. Everyone would say it was his fault. He was lead reindeer.”
Blurb: Ronaldo and Rudi are beside themselves with excitement: Monty the Moose, [image error]the most incredible Magician in the whole world is performing at Rudi’s birthday party!
But before the festivities begin, there’s the important matter of The Reindeer Flyover, an ancient tradition of The Reindeer Flying Academy that marks the end of school term. Ronaldo is thrilled to be lead reindeer but his happiness soon turns to dread when he notices Dasher, Comet and Prancer behaving suspiciously. Ronaldo fears the worst. The menacing brothers are going to sabotage the event, leaving him to take the blame.
Asin (Amazon): https://www.amazon.com/dp/B075ZX3H9T/
Here you can read first chapters of each book: www.ronaldotheflyingreindeer.com/first-chapters/
Website: www.ronaldotheflyingreindeer.com
Social Media links:
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/MaxineSylvesterAuthor/
Twitter: @flyingronaldo
Pinterest: https://id.pinterest.com/flyingronaldo/
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/maxinesylvester/
Goodreads: https://www.goodreads.com/author/show/14777128.Maxine_Sylvester
QUICK POP-QUIZ. (You can choose one or both, and please feel free to add a very brief comment)
Snow or sun: Snow
Soccer or (ice) hockey: Soccer
Dogs or cats: Dogs (but not Bali dogs – they chase me on my bike.)
Ice-cream or fruit: Fruit
Fact or fiction: Fiction
Music or silence: Both. I meditate but also love a bit of Guns ‘N’ Roses.
Sport or reading: Both. My dad used to take me to soccer matches as a kid so I do love my English Premier League. But there’s also nothing better than picking up a gripping book.
Sea or mountains: Both are magical.
Groundhogs or squirrels: Groundhogs (because I know you love them!) [image error]
Books or movies: Both. I go to the movies every week but also read every day.
E-book or print: Print. Nothing compares to holding a book in your hands, although I have to admit, when going on holiday a kindle is much lighter in your luggage and takes up less room.
Is there anything more you want to tell your readers?
Thank you to everyone who has either bought or reviewed any of the Ronaldo books. I am very grateful.
Thank you so much Maxine Sylvester!
May 15, 2018
‘Meet Your Next Favorite Author’ – Erica Graham
I met Erica Graham first in the Facebook Author & Readers Group ‘Readers Review Room’. Erica is a Speech Language Pathologist and created these wonderful book series ‘Talking Tales’ to help little kids pronounce the sounds of letters in the English language.
The first book I read from her is ‘Puppy’s Bubble’. Many preschoolers can have some difficulties with the letters in the English language. Well, in this book the focus is on the letter ‘b, p, m, n, d and h’. It is an amazing, easy and fun book for toddlers will enjoy. At the same time parents and caretakers will love to have this tool to support their kids.
Each book in the series focuses on other core sound in the English language.
It is such an honor to have Erica Graham with us today!
Can you introduce yourself, what’s your name, where are you from… ?
My name is Erica Graham and I am from the state of Illinois in the USA.
Tell us something unexpected about yourself!
I am a bit of an adrenaline junkie. Rock climbing is one of my favorite hobbies.
Give 2 things about yourself that you think matter the most?
Enjoying time with loved ones and living in the moment. Life is too short to spend regretting where you are. Make the most of every day.
IDENTITY CARD
[image error]
Do you remember the first book you read?
No, but one of my favorites as a child was Harold and the Purple Crayon.
What makes you laugh?
My kids make me laugh all the time. They have also been known to make me cry, but I would be lost without them.
In which genre do you write?
Children’s
What makes your book special, how is it different from other books in your genre?
Each book in my series is designed to help with speech development by focusing on a core sound or group of sounds in the English language. However, the fun story lines make them fun for children who aren’t working on speech or who are learning to read certain sounds.
How do you feel when you write, do you have a special ritual?
With two little ones, I would get nothing done if I depended on rituals to write. I write whenever I get a few minutes to myself, which is usually very late at night or earlier in the morning.
What inspired you to write your first book?
I was inspired to create my series after realizing the lack of materials for parents to use at home to encourage their child’s speech development.
How did you come up with the title?
My book titles are often inspired during the writing process. Either a phrase or a character from the story itself will become the title of each book.
If you could be any famous book character, who would you be and why?
I have always admired the deductive skills of Sherlock Holmes, however, I do not envy his social skills.
Is there a message in your book that you hope the readers will grasp?
There is not necessarily a message, but I hope that my readers take away a priceless bonding experience between parents and their children.
What are your top 3 books of all time?
Any Sherlock Holmes story, The Harry Potter Series as it revived a lost love of reading for me as a child, and The Hobbit—I have fond memories of reading The Hobbit with my grandfather.
How important is marketing and social media for you?
Marketing and social media are important and the most difficult aspect for me of being an author.
Is it important for you to get book reviews? Do you read them?
Book reviews are essential for sales and I do read them—even the negative reviews. My goal is to meet a need for families and I take their feedback very seriously.
What advice do you have for other writers?
Never forget the reason you began writing in the first place. It will be easy to get lost and even discouraged during the publishing and marketing process. Don’t let that frustration steal the joy of expressing yourself in words.
Can you give your book information: blurb, link, genre (for children’s book, please tell for what age)
Books: The Talking Tales series (Puppy’s Bubble, The Bright Red Tricycle, Cricket’s Guitar, Sam’s Sticky Sucker, and Catch that Chinchilla)
Ages birth-7, depending on what sounds a child is working on improving.
Hook: Each book in the Talking Tales series is designed to help with speech development by focusing on a core sound or group of sounds in the English language. Their fun storylines make these books enjoyable for all children, regardless of their speech skills.
The Bright Red Tricycle[image error]
Blurb: The bright red tricycle loves spending every day riding around with his boy Ryan. But when Ryan’s dad brings home a new bicycle, the little red tricycle quickly finds himself on an unknown journey. Will the little red tricycle ever be ridden by Ryan again, or is he destined to rust away in a scrap yard? This story is a great tool for any parent or speech therapist. It explores the tale of the bright red tricycle while providing over 80 examples of the “r” sound in various word locations and blends to increase speech development. This book also includes tips for parents who are working with their child’s speech at home.
Asin (Amazon): 0997855525
ISBN: 978-0997855524
Catch that Chinchilla
Blurb: Fletch and Rachael cannot wait to play with their new pet chinchilla. After Fletch’s impatience overcomes him, the escaped chinchilla quickly [image error]leads Fletch and Rachael in a chase across town. Will Fletch and Rachael catch the chinchilla before their dad returns? This humorous story is a great way for any parent or therapist to target the “ch” sound. There are over 115 examples of “ch” in various word locations to help improve speech development. This book also includes tips for parents who are working with the child’s speech at home.
Asin (Amazon): 099785555X
ISBN: 978-0997855555
Sam’s Sticky Sucker
Blurb: Sam has dreamed all night about his strawberry sucker. When morning arrives, he is unable to resist sneaking downstairs to eat his sucker [image error]before breakfast. But when mom comes toward the room and Sam is forced to run back to bed, he loses track of his sticky strawberry sucker. Now where could that sticky strawberry sucker have gone? Will Sam find the sucker before his mom? This funny story is a great tool for any parent or speech therapist. It provides over 170 examples of the “s” sound in various word locations and blends to increase speech development. This book also includes tips for parents who are working with their child’s speech at home.
Asin (Amazon): B06XBT2DKJ
ISBN: 978-0997855517
Cricket’s Guitar
Blurb: When Teri hears a small voice calling her, she never would have guessed who she would meet…a cricket! But not just any cricket. This cricket [image error]has a guitar. He is hoping that Teri can help him replace a broken string on his guitar. Will Teri’s creative thinking be able to help cricket, or will cricket never play his guitar again? This engaging story is a great tool for any parent or speech therapist. It provides over 80 examples of the “t” sound in various word locations to increase speech development. This book also includes tips for parents who are working with their child’s speech at home.
Asin (Amazon): 0997855509
ISBN: 978-0997855500
[image error]
Puppy’s Bubble
Blurb: When Puppy wakes up from a nap, he sees a bubble. When it disappears, Puppy begins his long journey to find the missing bubble. Will Puppy find the bubble, or has it vanished forever? This engaging story is a fun way to read to little ones while promoting babbling, early words and language skills. It provides over 90 examples of some of the earliest developing sounds in their most common word positions including “p”, “b”, “m”, “n”, “d” and “h”. This book also includes tips for encouraging speech development.
Asin (Amazon): B06XRYXWH5
ISBN: 978-0997855531
Website: talkingtalesbooks.com
Social Media links:
facebook.com/ericagrahamauthor
twitter.com/egrahamauthor
amazon.com/author/egraham
QUICK POP-QUIZ. (You can choose one or both, and please feel free to add a very brief comment)
Snow or sun: Sun
Soccer or (ice) hockey: Soccer
Dogs or cats: Cats
Ice-cream or fruit: Fruit
Fact or fiction: Fiction
[image error]Music or silence: Music
Sport or reading: ooh, tough. Reading
Sea or mountains: Mountains
Groundhogs or squirrels: Groundhogs of course 
May 14, 2018
With Flaming Hair
(Nederlands onderaan)
Tomorrow, May 15, it will be 14 years since Mips and I celebrated our 50th anniversary together in a big party With Flaming Hair / Met Vlammende Haren.
It is this fire of life inside us, the spirit of ‘women who run with the wolves’, which makes that we, also today, still are saying, we look forward to the future!
Let the flame in you never snuff out!
[image error]
In the Middle Ages, they burned women (and some men) who had a different idea of something, who were “DIFFERENT”, on a witch fire.
(Also today we see that violence on women has dramatically numbers)
Here we see women, condemned to the stake, make a decision not to be a victim anymore, and they fly away from the fire that was lit under them.
They did this step to find their own road, into the cosmos, very consciously.
In the blue image, they start with their “ratio” to search themselves, how to give “their being different” a place which is not bad, but on the contrary.
With every step, they come closer to themselves and to their connection to the world, the earth.
They continue their road, from blue over brown to the red of the fire in themselves. Instead of the fire that is lit under them to kill, to murder them, they come to the fire in their own core which just gives them the power to live.
And with this fire for life, the sun can shine brighter, gives light to our connection with ourselves, with companions in distress, with fellow-women and fellow-men, with the earth, the cosmos, the spirit.
Suddenly being “DIFFERENT” is not anymore something that’s bad or to be afraid of. It became a power that gives life and makes us live our lives.
[image error]
Morgen, 15 mei, zal het 14 jaar geleden zijn dat, Mips en ik, onze 50ste verjaardag samen vierden met een groot feest onder de titel Met Vlammende Haren.
Het is deze vlam, de spirit van ‘de ontembare vrouw’, die maakt dat we, ook vandaag nog, met veel goesting blijven uitkijken naar wat komen gaat.
Laat het vuur in jou nooit uitdoven!
In de Middeleeuwen werden vrouwen (en ook enkele mannen) die er een andere mening op nahielden, die “ANDERS” waren… als heksen op de brandstapel gebracht. (Ook vandaag nog zien we dat het geweld op vrouwen onrustwekkende vormen blijft aannemen).
Hier zien we vrouwen die, veroordeeld tot de brandstapel, besluiten om geen slachtoffer te blijven, zij vliegen weg van het vuur dat onder hen aangestoken werd.
Heel bewust namen ze deze stap, op zoek naar hun eigen weg, de kosmos in…
In het blauwe zijn ze met hun ratio op zoek naar zichzelf, hoe “ANDERS ZIJN” ook haar plaats heeft, niet slecht is, integendeel.
Steeds komen ze dichter bij zichzelf en bij hun verbondenheid met de wereld, de aarde.
Ze zetten de weg voort, van blauw over bruin, naar het rood van het vuur in zichzelf. In plaats van het vuur dat onder hen aangestoken wordt om hen te verbranden, te vermoorden, komen zij bij het vuur in zichzelf, dat hen juist kracht geeft om te leven.
En met dat vuur voor leven, kan de zon doorschijnen, licht voor onze verbondenheid met onszelf, met lotgenoten, met medemensen, met de aarde, de kosmos en onze ziel. Opeens is “ANDERS” niet meer iets slechts of beangstigend, maar een kracht die leven geeft en doet leven.
April 30, 2018
‘Meet Your Next Favorite Author’ – Helen Pryke
I have not enough words to describe how happy I am that I discovered Indie writers and so found my first, and second, and third… book of Helen Pryke. She really became one of my top favorite writers. Helen Pryke has a terrific pen, her words are so beautiful. The topics of her books are on domestic and child abuse. Helen’s approach is giving an intense insight into what victims of abuse emotional experience. Her women characters are real survivors and so give hope in darker days. And that makes it a joy to open her book and in no way feeling part of it. I so much look forward to her next book.
Helen has also written a children’s book under her pen name Julia E. Clements. It is an amazing book full of dreams of Danny’s dream adventures with unicorns, a dragon and giant, with witch Stregona and Argit the cricket. And underneath, on a subtle way, there is this message for kids and adults, that we all need to stand still sometimes and look at our guilt feelings, forgive ourselves as Danny did with the help of his friends…
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Can you introduce yourself, what’s your name, where are you from… ?
I’m Helen, I’m British but I’ve been living in Italy for the last 28 years, so I guess I’m more Italian than English now! I live close to Milan with my second husband and two sons, and work as a freelance translator and proofreader when I’m not writing.
Tell us something unexpected about yourself!
I once did a voice-over for a short film by a couple of Italian indie filmmakers. I did the voice of an elderly woman and a young child, thanks to some technological wizardry they had! It was a great experience, but I realized I’m not cut out to be an actress!
Give 2 things about yourself that you think matter the most?
I am very sensitive to other people’s feelings, probably too much. I tend to misread their expressions/moods and instantly feel I’ve done something wrong.
I’m also a perfectionist, I will constantly check any work I do until I’m happy with it (which is probably why I got into proofreading!). This can be a good thing, quite often it drives my husband and sons crazy!
4. IDENTITY CARD
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Do you remember the first book you read?
I started reading at a very young age, so I can’t really remember the first book I read. But I remember going on adventures with The Famous Five and up The Magic Faraway Tree, crying over Black Beauty and Watership Down, and going down the rabbit hole with Alice to Wonderland.
What makes you laugh?
My sons. They can be incredibly funny – they both have a British sense of humour, even though they’ve grown up in Italy, and come out with the funniest things. They also make me cry, when I see them struggling to get over traumas from the past. I wish so much I could help them and make everything all right again.
In which genre do you write?
I write women’s fiction mainly, with topics such as domestic and childhood abuse. I also write children’s books under the pen name Julia E. Clements, which is useful when I need a break from all the dramatic writing!
What makes your book special, how is it different from other books in your genre?
My books touch your emotions, people say my writing makes them feel everything the protagonist is going through. I write from the heart, sometimes from personal experience, sometimes from just imagining what a certain situation must be like, and this draws the reader into my books and the story.
How do you feel when you write, do you have a special ritual?
I d[image error]on’t have a special ritual, as such. I need to start writing early in the morning in order to get a couple of hours in, as I have an auto-immune disease and get tired by midday. I do have my own corner in the house, with my desk and a cupboard where I keep everything I need for writing. Woe betide anyone who invades my space! I love that feeling when I get in ‘the zone’ – the words just pour out and time passes unnoticed. I’ve lost count of the times that I’ve glanced at the clock and realised my son will be home in a few minutes, and I still have to cook his pasta!
What inspired you to write your first book?
I wrote my first book, Walls of Silence, when I was going through my separation from my first husband. It was a very stressing time, as I’d been in an abusive relationship for 23 years, and writing the book helped me get rid of all the hurt, anger and frustration I felt. The more I suffered, the more I made my protagonist suffer!
How did you come up with the title?
I’m hopeless at finding titles for my books, and try to get inspiration from anywhere. One evening I was watching QI and one of the panelists, Bill Bailey, recited something he’d made up, and finished with the words: the walls of silence. It just seemed the perfect title for my book!
If you could be any famous book character, who would you be and why?
I would be Lucy Pevensie, so that I could travel to Narnia and meet Aslan. She’s such a lovely character, I used to model myself on her when I was younger.
Is there a message in your book that you hope the readers will grasp?
I hope my readers will understand that even in the blackest moments of despair, there is hope, there is a future. I’ve been to rock bottom and made my way back up, and never thought that I’d end up where I am now: happily married with a man who loves and respects me, a published writer with fantastic friends in the writing community, and with a strength and courage inside me I never knew I had.
What are your top 3 books of all time?
This is so difficult! I love so many books. From my childhood, I’d have to say Voyage of the Dawn Treader from the Narnia series. From my adulthood, I’d say The Stand by Stephen King, and Fluke by James Herbert.
How important is marketing and social media for you?
It’s very important. I’ve learnt a lot over the last year or so since I published my first book. The main thing I’ve learnt is how important it is to support other writers and have them support you – people you can celebrate your achievements with and who will listen to you when things aren’t going so well. Social media means you can reach people all over the world, people you’d never have met otherwise. And readers can get in touch with you and let you know what your book means to them. That’s a wonderful thing. Marketing is difficult – there are a lot of writers out there, all shouting “buy my book”! That’s why community support is so important!
Is it important for you to get book reviews? Do you read them?
I do read book reviews, although sometimes I wish I hadn’t! I haven’t had any really bad ones (yet!) but a couple have made me go “ouch”. At the beginning I took everything to heart and let the few negative reviews outweigh the many more positive ones. Nowadays I take a more relaxed approach to it all, and just shrug my shoulders.
What advice do you have for other writers?
Get your books edited and proofread. No matter how good you are, you’ve read and re-read your manuscript so many times that you won’t see the errors anymore. You can find good editors and proofreaders who don’t charge a fortune, and your readers will thank you for it.
Make friends with other writers. They’re not competition, even if they write in the same genre as you, there are more than enough readers out there. Help others, and they’ll help you when you need it. If someone offers you advice, have the courtesy to listen, even if you don’t agree. Then think over what they’ve said, without dismissing it outright. Nine times out of ten, you’ll realise they have a point.
Can you give your book information: blurb, link, genre (for children’s book, please tell for what age)
Books
The Healer’s Secret
Blurb: Jennifer’s life isn’t going as she planned. Fired from her job and [image error]on the brink of divorce at thirty-one, her only salvation lies at the bottom of a wine bottle. When her mother insists she get away from everything, she reluctantly agrees to explore her Italian roots in Tuscany.
Staying in her family’s centuries-old cottage, she becomes embroiled in a mysterious tragedy involving her great-grandmother. As she delves further into her ancestors’ history, she discovers there is more to her heritage than meets the eye.
Ghosts from the past could give Jennifer something she thought she’d never have: a future. But that depends on whether she can resist temptation and avoid slipping back into her old ways.
Will she be able to conquer her inner demons and discover the healer’s secret?
Asin (Amazon): B078CXN299
ISBN: 979-1220022620
Walls of Silence
[image error]Blurb: Living in the mountains of Sicily, Maria has the perfect childhood until the tragic accident that changes her life forever. The events that follow will take her away from her home town to the streets of Milan, in an ever-increasing spiral of abuse and deception. Will she ever be able to trust anyone ever again? Set in turbulent 1960s Italy, Walls of Silence is the story of a girl who must find the courage and strength to survive her family’s betrayal and the prejudices of her country.
Asin (Amazon): B01MDVMQYT
ISBN: 978-1544161662
Autumn Sky
[image error]Blurb: The day Julia’s best friend Becky gives her a magazine article to read, her whole world falls apart. After years of emotional and psychological abuse, is Julia ready to face the truth about her perfect marriage to Simon or will she continue to hide her head in the sand? Autumn Sky is a short story of 7,000 words from the author of The Healer’s Secret and Walls of Silence.
Asin (Amazon): B01N4G80LN
Dreamland (writing as Julia E. Clements)
For ages 9-12
Blurb: Daniel Green is a typical ten-year-old boy with just one difference – when he goes to sleep at night, he travels to Dreamland, a magical place where he can create amazing a[image error]dventures using only his imagination.
But he is not alone. An evil being follows him into his enchanted world and joins forces with Stregona, the powerful witch who reigns over the Dark Forest. Together they are determined to destroy Dreamland.
Who is this dark entity, and what does he want with Danny?
Asin (Amazon): B075C6WJ8D
ISBN: 979-1220022613
Website: https://pinkquillbooks.wordpress.com/
Social Media links:
https://twitter.com/helen_pryke
https://www.facebook.com/helenprykeauthor
https://www.instagram.com/helenpryke
https://www.goodreads.com/author/show/16066242.Helen_Pryke
QUICK POP-QUIZ. (You can choose one or both, and please feel free to add a very brief comment)
Snow or sun: I hate both, but if I had to choose one, it would be snow!
Soccer or (ice) hockey: Again, I don’t really like sports, but I occasionally watch soccer.
Dogs or cats: Dogs.
Ice-cream or fruit: Ice-cream!
Fact or fiction: Fiction, I like to step out of the real world sometimes.
Music or silence: I prefer silence nowadays.
Sport or reading: Reading!
Sea or mountains: Mountains.
Groundhogs or squirrels: Squirrels.
Books or movies: Books.
E-book or print: Both are fine, as long as I can read!
Is there anything more you want to tell your readers?
I love to hear from anyone who’s read my books and enjoyed them, or have questions to ask. I’m on most social media, so feel free to get in touch!
Thank you so much Helen Pryke!
April 18, 2018
Meeting a new creature of nature
I came to Quebec for the first time in April 2008 and suddenly saw a little – for me unknown – animal emerge out of the ground. It was a groundhog, just coming out of hibernation. She had made her winter burrow in the field, just behind our backyard.
For hours, days, weeks (year after year) I have observed and photographed her.
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At that moment I couldn’t presume I would call her Margot, nor that this woodchuck would convince me later to make children’s book with her as main characther.
The first book, Margot Gets An Unexpected Visit, is a children’s tale where high quality nature photography meets up with friendship, diversity, fun, education and ice hockey.
The second one ‘Groundhog Secrets – Everything You Always Wanted To Know About Woodchucks’ is an invitation to discover the secret world of the groundhog, through the eyes of Margot, while gaining a close-up view of wildlife in whimsical photo illustrations.
Discover the secret world of the groundhog through the eyes of Margot the woodchuck while gaining a close-up view of wildlife in whimsical photo illustrations.
Nederlands
In april 2008 kwam ik voor het eerst naar Quebec en zag ik ineens een voor mij onbekend diertje net boven de grond komen uitpiepen. Het was blijkbaar een bosmarmot die pas uit haar winterslaap kwam. Haar winterhol ligt in het veld, net achter onze tuin.
[image error]Uren, dagen, weken (jaar in jaar uit) heb ik haar in het oog gehouden en gefotografeerd.
Niets deed mij toen vermoeden dat Margot de bosmarmot mij zou overtuigen om twee kinderboeken over haar te maken. Het eerste, Margot Krijgt Onverwacht Bezoek, is een prentenboek voor kinderen. Hierin gaan hoog professionele natuurfoto’s samen met vriendschap, diversiteit, leren, plezier en ijshockey
Het tweede, Het Grote Weetjesboek Over De Bosmarmot, is een uitnodiging om de geheime wereld van de Amerikaanse marmot te ontdekken door de ogen van Margot en aan de hand van grappige close-up foto-illustraties in
April 16, 2018
Ellen L. Buikema is my first guest at ‘Meet Your Next Favorite Author’ today.
To day we start this new series ‘Meet Your Next Favorite Author’ by [image error]
introducing you Ellen L. Buikema, the author of these amazing children’s books about Charlie Chameleon and his friend Frankie the fish, which I enjoyed so much.
After hearing the name Ellen Buikema, many in the Low Countries (Netherlands and Flemish part of Belgium) will think, she must have relatives in the Netherlands. And yes she has, and that makes her, my perfect candidate, to be my first interview guest at FotoBoek Lieve Snellings.
Can you introduce yourself, what’s your name, where are you from… ?
My name is Ellen Lucey Buikema. I was born in Honolulu, Hawaii and raised in Forest Park, Illinois, a village west of Chicago. I’ve lived and taught in several states in the USA.
Tell us something unexpected about yourself!
I’m sensitive to a lot of medications. Because of this I make my own medicinal teas. Growing up, my children thought that all mommies did the same.
Give 2 things about yourself that you think matter the most?
Sense of humor and patience. I have a wicked sense of humor, which helps immensely with writing and life in general. Having children has made me a better and more patient person.
IDENTITY CARD
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Do you remember the first book you read?
The first book I can remember reading by myself was Dick and Jane. The books I enjoyed the most as a child were The Secret Garden, by Frances Hodgson Burnett and The Hobbit by J.R.R. Tolkien.
What makes you laugh?
Good stand-up comedy makes me laugh, as do comedic movies and sitcoms.
In which genre do you write?
I write in multiple genres: children’s fiction, YA historical fiction, and non-fiction for adults.
What makes your book special, how is it different from other books in your genre?
I include humor in my writing, no matter the genre. The Adventures of Charlie Chameleon series is different from other chapter books as it has fun activities at the end of chapters, and has life lessons woven into the humorous stories.
How do you feel when you write, do you have a special ritual?
[image error]I usually write at our dining room table on my laptop computer. A plush toy dragon, Nom Nom, as in nom nom I just ate another fairy, graces the table while I work. I have learned never to write after watching the news! I do not listen to music while writing, although I know many authors that find it helpful to write to music. I prefer drawing and painting to music. Frequently, our black lab, Bailey, will hang out near me while I write.
[image error]What inspired you to write your first book?
I started writing the Charlie Chameleon stories first, but set them aside to complete the parenting book. I saw a great need in the parenting area, specifically how to understand why children do the things they do. It is my belief that if you understand someone, you will be more patient with him or her.
How did you come up with the title?
Parenting truly is a work in progress.
If you could be any famous book character, who would you be and why?
I would be Laura in the book Lightning, as she is brave in the face of many obstacles and finds success as a writer.
Is there a message in your book that you hope the readers will grasp?
Have faith in yourself and keep moving forward.
What are your top 3 books of all time?
Jitterbug Perfume by Tom Robbins, The Dresden Files series by Jim Butcher (I have been known to binge read these), Lightning by Dean Koontz, and if I may, a fourth book: Bell Canto by Ann Patchett.
How important is marketing and social media for you?
Marketing and social media are incredibly important for me. I market myself and my work most days. Through social media I have met a plethora of interesting people and am happy to help others in their writing journey as I am able.
Is it important for you to get book reviews? Do you read them?
Without reviews it is very difficult for customers to make an informed decision about a book. I read book reviews and write reviews for the books I’ve read, as I know how important reviews are for the authors.
What advice do you have for other writers?
Please join critique groups, use beta readers, and get help with editing. Do not worry about making mistakes, especially in the first drafts. Like I’ve told grade school children during author visits, “Every author of the books in the library made mistakes when they were writing. It is okay to make mistakes, everyone makes them.”
Can you give your book information: blurb, link, genre (for children’s book, please tell for what age)
Books The Adventures of Charlie Chameleon series (for ages 5 – 9, younger if read to)
Hook: In the series, Charlie the Chameleon and his obnoxious pet fish, Frankie, navigate friendship challenges, cultural differences and the results of their choices. They have many adventures and zany fun while learning how to be respectful and appreciative of their friends and community.
[image error]Blurb for New Beginnings: Moving and making new friends is tough! When Charlie Chameleon and his family start their adventures in New Town, Charlie discovers he is braver than he knows. With his bossy pet fish Frankie by his side, he faces many challenges, including standing up to the neighborhood bully.
Asin (Amazon): B01DAX7EBQ
ISBN: 978-0990897934
Blurb for School Days: In this second in a series of humorous multicultural books, Charlie Chameleon and his friends are having trouble with Boris Bunny, the class bully. Charlie thinks Boris is putting on an act, but his friends disagree. Follow Charlie’s adventures as he helps Boris learn how to be a friend. Fans of the Arthur the Aardvark series will enjoy the antics of the characters in The Adventures of Charlie Chameleon: School Days. Even bullies can be bullied—who knew!
Asin: B01J2XKETW
ISBN: 978-0990897965
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Blurb for Summertime: Follow the wacky summertime adventures of the Chameleon family and their obnoxious pet fish, as they get lost trying to find an out-of-the way vacation spot. Who needs a map, right?
The family returns home in time for a big soccer event that Charlie and his school friends plan to attend. He hopes his new friends will accept Tamika, his best friend from his old neighborhood, never expecting what actually happens.
Asin: B072SX6MQT
ISBN: 978-0990897996
Social Media links:
Facebook Author page: https://www.facebook.com/ecellenb
Twitter page: https://twitter.com/ecellenb
Website: http://ellenbuikema.com
Pinterest https://www.pinterest.com/EllenKidsAuthor/
LinkedIn https://www.linkedin.com/in/ellen-buikema-b289a661/
Google+ https://plus.google.com/u/0/+EllenLBuikema
YouTube https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCJugScmUYKs6L3NH9oyYn2A
QUICK POP-QUIZ. (You can choose one or both, and please feel free to add a very brief comment)
Snow or Sun: Sun! I spent way too much time shoveling snow.
Soccer or (ice) hockey: Both are fun to watch.
Dogs or cats: I love both.
Ice-cream or fruit: I am a fan of both, but prefer ice cream. I have a weakness for mint chocolate chip.
Fact or fiction: Fiction. Making up stuff is fun!
Music or silence: Music at all times except when writing, then silence or nature sounds.
Sport or reading: Reading! I can dance though. Can we call that a sport?
Sea or mountains: Sea. I find watching the ocean calming and invigorating at the same time.
Groundhogs or squirrels: They are both adorable.
Books or movies: Both, but I prefer to read the book before attending the movie if possible.
E-book or print: E-book for day, print for evening.
Is there anything more you want to tell your readers?
It is my hope that readers of all ages will find something to enjoy. The Adventures of Charlie Chameleon stories were written to amuse adults as well as children. There are lessons to be learned in the books, but they are subtle.
Thank you so much Ellen!
April 11, 2018
Coming soon!
If you’re open to learn about great Indie Authors, this is the place to be!
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August 24, 2015
MARGOT KRIJGT ONVERWACHT BEZOEK is 3 dagen gratis !
van harte!
Op deze link vind je enkele commentaren op het boekje - http://eepurl.com/bwUWmj
