Lieve Snellings's Blog, page 7
March 15, 2019
Meet Your Next Favorite Author: Shana Gorian
[image error]Shana Gorian is one of those amazing authors I met at the Facebook BookGoSocial Children’s Authors Group.
She is the author of the Rosco the Rascal series, chapter books for kids 6+ in which a sometimes rascally, but always lovable German shepherd uses his steadfast heroic nature to help his pals, brother and sister James and Mandy, find adventure and overcome obstacles.
I read two of her books (Rosco the Rascal at the St. Patrick’s Day Parade and Rosco the Rascal in the Land of Snow) and gave them both a 5-star review. But let’s hear it straight from Shana Gorian.
Can you introduce yourself, what’s your name, where are you from… ?
Hi! I’m a children’s book author and my name is Shana Gorian. I write a series of books called Rosco the Rascal. I’m originally from Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania but I live in Temecula, California, which is about an hour northeast of San Diego and is known as southern California’s wine country. I live a few miles from a sprawling suburban town, amidst acres and acres of avocado and citrus orchards, so I’m kind of in the country, but basically, my life and my family’s lives are in the suburbs.
Tell us something unexpected about yourself.
Some of my favorite hobbies and pasttimes include watching documentaries about history and science, going dancing, and going hiking.
Give 2 things about yourself that you think matter the most?
When I decided to write a book for kids, I did it because I had always loved writing, but also because I wanted to document some of the fun things that my children and I did while they were growing up. (They are now pre-teen and teen.) I started with settings, places we’d been, things we’d done, and then created fictional stories using those places and experiences as inspiration.
I also used my children’s personalities as a basis for developing my fictional brother and sister human characters, and my real dog’s funny nature to develop his fictional character.
IDENTITY CARD
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Do you remember the first book you read?
I remember reading a lot of wonderful and imaginative books as a child but I don’t remember specifically the very first one I ever read and loved. Some of my favorite titles from childhood, however, had a huge impact on me, and some of these include Charlotte’s Web, The Lion, The Witch and the Wardrobe, and The Giving Tree. I also remember poring over issues of Highlights Magazine as a child while sitting in the dentist’s office waiting my turn in the dentist’s chair!
What makes you laugh/cry?
Songs that remind me of different long-gone parts of my life can make me cry at the turn of a hat! And I find a lot of humor in many innocent things that children say. Little kids and especially my own (now, older) kids constantly crack me up, too.
In which genre do you write?
I write contemporary, realistic, just slightly humorous, children’s novels for ages 6+. I refer to the level of my books as Early Middle Grade, a label that I was glad to find is actually ‘a thing.’ My books are ideal for a seven or eight-year-old, but advanced six-year-old readers and on-level nine and ten-year-old readers connect with them as well.
What makes your books special, how are they different from other books in your genre?
I write my books with multiple points of view. When I started writing, I simply had one story going for the two human characters and another story going for the dog. These two plots came together later on in the book.
But in my later books, and now when I write a book, most of the time each of the three main characters—Rosco the rascally dog, James, a ten-year-old boy, and Mandy, his seven-year-old sister—will have his or her own story going on. Each has its own story arc, with one of these being the main plot and the others being subplots but still carrying dramatic weight. Each character will be going through something, both external and internal, and somehow these things will all weave together by the end.
[image error]This isn’t usually done in books for a seven-year-old, and that’s what makes them stand apart, and why I think kids like them so much, because there’s enough going on in each book that every child can find something to relate to in them. This is especially true of my latest book, which I released just before Christmas of 2018, Rosco the Rascal and the Holiday Lights. I feel like I’ve finally gotten the hang of writing this way and I’m enjoying it more than ever.
But this multiple point of view setup is also the case in Rosco the Rascal Goes to Camp, which I published in 2015. This makes my books a little more advanced for such young readers but I think a lot of kids can handle this concept. Multiple POVs are used in many children’s movies as well as books for older kids, and I like writing this way for younger kids because I think it makes for a more challenging yet satisfying read.
How do you feel when you write? Do you have a special ritual?
I usually write first in a stream-of-consciousness style, spitting out whatever ideas and possibilities come to me, in very long, very complicated paragraphs with no attempt at editing them. These are sessions for which it takes a long time to reach that magical mindset where passionate ideas spring forth and you have to type as fast as you possibly can to get them all down before they disappear. It’s not easy to get to this state and can only be done, at least for me, by writing and writing whatever comes to mind, even if it’s nonsense. It’s like a brainstorming session, something that I learned as a former graphic designer, that trying to be creative for each new project, you had to put every idea down, good or bad, in order to flush them out and figure out what works; just throw them all down on the table to see ‘what sticks’.
Eventually, after a few hours (or a few days, sometimes) of doing this, the good ideas become apparent, and I realize that some of the things I’ve put down can be tweaked into really workable plots and themes.
Next, I’ll take these ideas and turn them into an outline. Then, I’ll take that outline and start writing chapters. When I’ve written a few chapters, I’ll usually go back in and edit a while before I continue forward (because editing is much easier for me than the writing itself), not so much for grammar and spelling but for concepts and plot and pacing.
What inspired you to write your first book?
My first book is about a visit to a pumpkin patch, and like I mentioned above, I wanted to document in a fun story format rather than a diary or nonfiction account, some of the traditions that my family and I had every year, like a fall trip to a farm. We’d always do the corn maze, take a hay ride, pet the baby animals, check out the scarecrow decorating contest. So I took that sort of an outing for the setting, and decided it would be funny if I used our new dog who had started to create quite a ruckus in our lives as we got used to him—a charming, overgrown German shepherd puppy who did some really outrageous, funny things—as the main character for my story who’s antics created problems, tension, etc. But I used my children, the dog’s owners, (albeit, with their genders and ages switched so the characters weren’t exactly like my kids) as the secondary characters about which realistic, modern-day stories could be written.
How did you come up with the titles for your books?
I just thought that a mischievous, rascally dog ought to have a name that goes well with the word ‘rascal’ and ‘Rosco the Rascal’ was born. Our real dog upon whom he is based, is named Rugger (‘Roo-ger’).
If you could be any famous book character, who would you be and why?
I think I would be Wendy in Peter Pan or Dorothy in The Wizard of Oz because I love adventurous journeys and as a child I always wished I could fly. But as an adult I’ve also got a bit of Professor McGonagall from the Harry Potter books in my personality–the deputy headmistress, strict with discipline but also happy just to let kids be kids.
Is there a message in your books that you hope your readers will grasp?
There are many messages and themes in the various books! But mostly, overall, I think that I try to encourage kids to solve their own problems. I show my characters ‘out there on their own’, willing and able to take risks and grow without adults telling them what to do or how to fix a problem.
What are your top 3 books of all time??
I can’t say these definitively beat out some of the other incredible books that have made a big impression on me (I have a hard time picking favorites in anything unless we’re talking ice cream), but these stand out in my memory as books I’ve truly enjoyed during different points of my life: The Pillars of the Earth by Ken Follett, The Joy Luck Club by Amy Tan and Gone with the Wind by Margaret Mitchell
15. How important is marketing and social media for you?
I love marketing my books! I am an oddball that way—many authors really dislike this task. But I’ve decided, now in my forties and realizing a lot more than I ever used to, that indeed I am half introvert, half extrovert. So the introvert in me loves to sit home alone and write and read. And the extrovert loves to market!
I find that marketing is fun and just as necessary as writing the books. After all, books won’t sell themelves—not in this crowded marketplace! You’ve got to go above and beyond what you think you have to do if you’re going to make even a tiny splash. So I’m always looking for ways to get my books in front of new readers.
16. Is it important for you to get book reviews? Do you read them?
Yes, I think as an author, it’s very important to get book reviews for your books. Reviews are just one way that potential readers may decide whether or not to give your books a try.
And yes, I absolutely do read my reviews. I learn a lot from them about what I might have done badly and what I did that was spot-on. I also get a lot of the validation that I, and most authors, crave, by reading my reviews. Reading what someone has to say about your books—something you and only you wrote—can be very illuminating and very rewarding. You just have to keep an open mind and realize that you can’t please everybody and that what one person says won’t ‘break’ you if it’s not something you hoped to hear. Because for every bad review, there are many, many good reviews, but both kinds are both necessary and helpful.
You’ve got to have a pretty tough skin if you’re going to read your reviews, though. I think in my four years writing and my ten or so years as a graphic designer learning to take professional critique (notice I used the word critique, not criticisim–that’s half the battle, seeing the constructive aspect of even bad reviews), that I developed that necessary tough shell.
17. What advice do you have for other writers?
I’d advise other writers to focus first on writing and editing the very best book they can possibly come up with, and then have a professional edit it before trying to independently publish it or even before submitting it to an agent or a publishing house. It can’t be overstated how valuable it is to have someone else look at your work and help you make it better before you put it out there for the world to read. I wish I had done more of this with my first book. Children still love it but I can see how it would’ve been much stronger, much tighter.
18. Can you give your book information: blurb, link, genre (for children’s book, please tell for what age)
Books
One of my books is very much in season right now is called Rosco the Rascal at the St. Patrick’s Day Parade. It was published in 2017.
Hook: This time it’s not Rosco who’s making mischief, it’s the leprechauns.
[image error]Blurb: When Rosco’s buddy, Sparks the pug, goes missing, Rosco and the kids set out to find him, embarking on adventures through the St. Patrick’s Day Parade. At the same time, Mandy thinks the leprechauns have jinxed her with bad luck because she broke with tradition and didn’t build them a leprechaun trap filled with treasure this year.
Will brother and sister be able to restore Mandy’s good luck, or will the leprechauns ruin her St. Patrick’s Day? And will Rosco and the kids find Sparks before it’s too late? Find out in this heartwarming, family adventure, full of ancient Irish magic and contemporary, big-city fun.
Asin (Amazon): B06XDGJC7L
Full link for Kindle ebook: https://www.amazon.com//dp/B06XDGJC7L
ISBN: 978-1543135411
Full link for paperback: https://www.amazon.com/dp/1543135412/
Age: Recommended for ages 6-10
Here are the other Rosco the Rascal books
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Website: http://www.shanagorian.com
Twitter: https://twitter.com/AuthorShana
Facebook: http://facebook.com/roscotherascal
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/author_shana_gorian/
Pinterest: https://www.pinterest.com/shanagorian/
Blog: http://www.authorshanagorian.com
QUICK POP-QUIZ. (You can choose one or both, and please feel free to add a very brief comment)
Snow or sun: Love them both!
Soccer or (ice) hockey: Soccer
Dogs or cats: Love them both!
Ice-cream or fruit: Ice-cream
Fact or fiction: Fiction!
Music or silence: Both!
Sport or reading: Reading
Sea or mountains: Mountains
Groundhogs or squirrels: Squirrels
Books or movies: Both!
E-book or print: Both!
(The fact that my zodiac sign is a Libra plays into most everything I do—see! Everything in balance, everything equal, two sides to every argument, can’t make a decision one way or the other! 
February 28, 2019
Meet your next favorite author: Andrew Fairchild
It was such a joy to discover children’s picture book author, Andrew Fairchild, and read his latest book – Have You Seen My Egg?
Have You Seen Me Egg? is a story that encourages children not to give up on their dreams no matter how unreal they might seem. In this story, Red the rooster wakes up on the morning to find his egg missing. Although rooster’s don’t have eggs, Red believes in his heart that he does and refuses to give up on his dream.
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It is my pleasure to introduce you to Meet Your Next Favorite Author – Andrew Fairchild.
Can you introduce yourself, what’s your name, where are you from… ?
Sure, my name is Andrew Fairchild and I live in Houston Texas – originally from a small town in Mississippi.
Tell us something unexpected about yourself!
A lot of people do not know this, but when I was younger I thought about becoming a monk.
Give 2 things about yourself that you think matter the most?
I never give up and I am very goal oriented. I push myself extremely hard, more than any outsider would.
IDENTITY CARD
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Do you remember the first book you read?
I don’t remember a particular book, but I do remember reading a lot of Dr. Seuss and Jan and Stan Berenstain. The earliest books I remember are the Dick and Jane series by Abby Robinson
What makes you laugh/cry?
I am very ticklish. So, my friends and family try to tickle me every time they get even though I am much older. I guess they like to see my trying to hop around like a one legged frog trying to get away. I cry at anything and everything. I am a very emotional person and wear my heart on my sleeve.
In which genre do you write?
I am currently published in the children’s picture book genre; however, I do write MG, poetry and some adult short stories.
What makes your book special, how is it different from other books in your genre?
I think everyone has a different voice determined by their life experiences. It’s all about tapping into those life experiences that help bring that unique voice to stories.
How do you feel when you write, do you have a special ritual?
When I write, I generally play a lot of classical or inspirational music. I try to block out my emotions because if I am working on a particular manuscript that doesn’t match my current mood the words don’t flow as easily and I don’t get as much accomplished out of my writing time.
What inspired you to write your first book?
Bali and Blu: Friends of a Different Color was the first book that I wrote and it was pretty much a reflection of the difficult childhood I had with bullying.
How did you come up with the title?
I immediately came up with Bali and Blu, which was originally the title idea. But as I continued to write the manuscript and the characters jumped off the page more, I added Friends of a Different Color. There is a part in the story where the elephant (Bali) tried to paint himself green to look more like his grasshopper friend (Blu). This is the part of the story where the rest of the title originated, enforcing the idea that despite Blu wanted to be green they were of a different color.
If you could be any famous book character, who would you be and why?
Charlotte, from Charlotte’s Web. She was very wise! Although she was so small, she made an impact in Wilbur’s life. I think it teaches children that no matter how small you are, you can do great things.
Is there a message in your book that you hope the readers will grasp?
[image error]There are many layers to this book. Everyone who reads it will get a different message. For young readers, I would say that your heart is a very powerful muscle. It not only provides the nutrients throughout your body but when your dreams live in deep in your heart – all you have to do is listen and follow and it will be then that all your dreams will come true no matter the storm.
What are your top 3 books of all time?
With regard to picture books, I just recently read The House of Lost and Found by Martin Widmark. When I saw this book, I immediately fell in love. The illustrations and message, so beautiful. My second choice would be, Sometimes You Fly by Katherine Applegate. Another beautiful story and the layout was different, but it worked for this book. My third choice would be, Swan (The Life & Dance of Anna Pavlova) by Laurel Snyder. This book is a non-fiction, but very lyrical.
How important is marketing and social media for you?
Social media is very important. I think it keeps you in reach to those who read and love your books. Marketing is very tricky and VERY time-consuming. You just have to play around with everything that is available to you and figure out what works for you. What works for you may not work for someone else.
Is it important for you to get book reviews? Do you read them?
They should be important to any author. They are our link to the outside world. When you get positive feedback on your work, it is the greatest feeling and provides validation that you are doing what you are called to do. And sometimes there are negative reviews, but I let it fuel me to better my writing. Yes – I do read all the reviews!
What advice do you have for other writers?
Make sure that it is what you really want to do. There is no such thing as becoming an overnight success. A lot of hard work goes into writing, editing and revising – numerous times. I am currently an indie author, but I have decided to seek an agent. I am ready to move on to that next step of my writing career. I think an agent can provide that marketability for me where I lack those skills.
Can you give your book information: blurb, link, genre (for children’s book, please tell for what age)
Books
Have You Seen My Egg?
Hook: The story opens with the main character, Red the rooster, awakening from a dream. It is a dream that he has often and believes to be true, but normally roosters don’t have eggs. Convinced that he does, Red goes on a quest to find his egg. On his farm [image error]a group of hens explain to Red, that having eggs is simply a hen’s job. Refusing to believe the news, Red goes on a journey. On his journey, he runs into fellow farm friends who are eager to help him find his missing egg. Red encounters many obstacles along the way, but refuses to give up despite life’s unforeseen hurdles.
Blurb: Have You Seen My Egg? is an endearing story written by multi-award winning author Andrew Fairchild. This is a children’s fiction about following your heart and allowing true love to be your guide. Have You Seen My Egg? is beautifully illustrated by Melissa Shultz-Jones.
Asin (Amazon): B06VW94YFG
ISBN: 9781513619651
Age: 6 – 8 y
Rose and Her Amazing Nose
[image error]Blurb: Rose and Her Amazing Nose is a witty and brilliantly illustrated children’s picture book that tells the story of a unique little girl named Rose who encourages children to embrace their quirky side and that being different can truly be amazing! *Winner of two Purple Dragonfly Book Awards*
ASIN: B01882APU6
ISBN-10: 1513606050
ISBN-13: 978-1513606057
Bali and Blu: Friends of a Different Color
Bali is a little elephant who has an unusual best friend. Not another elephant, but a tiny grasshopper. Bali thinks he needs to change for it to be acceptable for him to have a [image error]friend who is so different to an elephant. He tries various ways to change, including painting himself another color or making himself look like the grasshopper by having wings. However hard he tries, he realizes it won’t make any difference. But the real difference is only in size. That doesn’t stop the two creatures still being friends.
ISBN-10: 1499080069
ISBN-13: 978-1499080063
Website:
Amazon Author page
Barnes and Noble
QUICK POP-QUIZ. (You can choose one or both, and please feel free to add a very brief comment)
Snow or sun: Snow! There is something spiritual taking place when the earth is covered in a blanket of snow.
Soccer or (ice) hockey: I am not a fan of sports.
Dogs or cats: Both! I have two cats – one named Medusa and the other Nala and one dog named Mya. My other dog recently passed. 
Ice-cream or fruit: You can never go wrong with ice-cream.
Fact or fiction: Fiction because it allows for greater use of creativity. Facts are pretty boring – well sometimes 
February 15, 2019
Meet your next favorite author: Andi Cann
For a long time, I searched for other picture books incorporating nature photography. Can you imagine how excited I felt after finding Andi Cann’s picture books with close-up animal photos?
[image error]I started with ‘What Makes a Bug a Bug?” Then, I read “What Makes a Bird a Bird?” These books are just wonderful. Step-by-step toddlers will learn about the different aspects of bugs, birds, and animals, in general, to find out in the end what is the single difference that makes a bird a bird.
But also reading her books with drawing illustrations are Top experiences. Andi Cann for sure is one of my most favorite authors!
Can you introduce yourself, what’s your name, where are you from… ?
My name is Andrea Kamenca. I write as Andi Cann, a children’s author. I grew up in Ohio in the United States and have lived in three other states. I have lived in Arizona for more than 25 years.
Tell us something unexpected about yourself!
I was once elected to a public office when I was in my early 20’s.
Give 2 things about yourself that you think matter the most?
My husband and my children.
IDENTITY CARD
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Do you remember the first book you read?
No. My parents read to me continually.
6. What makes you laugh/cry? Laugh:
Everyday foibles. Cry: Meanness to children and animals.
7. In which genre do you write?
Children’s and non-fiction
8. What makes your book special, how is it different from other books in your genre?
All of my books are positive, empowering, and encourage children.
9. How do you feel when you write, do you have a special ritual?
I feel creatively inspired when I write. I don’t have a special ritual.
10. What inspired you to write your first book?
My children encouraged me to write the book about the story I made up when they were children.
11. How did you come up with the title?
It was inspired by Dale Chihuly and the glass blowers that I grew up seeing as a kid.
12. If you could be any famous book character, who would you be and why?
Lara Croft. She is a kick-#$$ explorer and adventurer.
13. Is there a message in your book that you hope the readers will grasp?
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It varies. But mostly, it’s about inspiring children to make friends, be themselves, and love and accept themselves.
14. What are your top 3 books of all time? I can’t specify.
There are so many good ones. I do love Leaves of Grass by Walt Whitman, though.
15. How important is marketing and social media for you?
Critical.
16. Is it important for you to get book reviews? Do you read them?
Book reviews are critical. I always read them. I learn something from each of them.
17. What advice do you have for other writers?
Write and keep writing.
18. Can you give your book information: blurb, link, genre (for children’s book, please tell for what age)
Books: 15 books
Age: 2-10 year old.
Click on the book cover to open it’s Amazon page
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Website: http://www.andicann.com
My Amazon page: https://www.amazon.com/Andi-Cann/e/B073YDRGWG
Social Media
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/andicannbooks/
Pinterest: https://www.pinterest.com/andicannauthor/
Twitter: https://twitter.com/andicannauthor
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: Hockey
Dogs or cats: Dogs
Ice-cream or fruit: Fruit
Fact or fiction: Fact
Music or silence: Music
Sport or reading: Reading
Sea or mountains: Both– Love them both so much!
Groundhogs or squirrels: Squirrels
Books or movies: Both– Each tell stories.
E-book or print: Both– I still love print but I also love carrying hundreds books with me.
Is there anything more you want to tell your readers?
Thank you for reading! If there are topics you want to see me address, please email me at andicannauthor@gmail.com or comment on my Facebook page.
January 30, 2019
Meet your next favorite author: Diane Guntrip
I met Diane Guntrip on the Facebook ‘BooksGoSocial Children’s Books’ group of which I moderate. Diane is a passionate author who loves to support and empower children who have encountered bullying. She has not only published two books but she presents workshops in schools. These encourage deep and meaningful discussions with the students.
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Diane Guntrip has published both of her children’s books in diary format. This is an amazing style that youngsters can identify with and readers can anticipate what is going to happen next.
Meet up with your next favourite author, Diane Guntrip. She’ll reveal her story herself.
Can you introduce yourself, what’s your name, where are you from… ?
My name is Diane Guntrip. I was born and educated in the UK and lived in Nottingham from the age of 7 years. After marrying in 1976, I emigrated to Australia. I have lived in Perth, Western Australia since 1981. For most of that time, I have been a teacher. However, I have also dabbled in many creative pursuits along the way such as jewellery design and interior design. I also ran a tuition business for 8 years.
Tell us something unexpected about yourself!
I never expected to become a writer.
Give 2 things about yourself that you think matter the most?
I admit to being a perfectionist so one thing that is high on my list would be to always aim to do my best in whatever I am doing. The second thing, and it’s very important to me, is to always be myself.
Identity Card
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Do you remember the first book you read?
No, but I can remember my mother reading to me every night before I went to sleep. One of my favorites was ‘Winnie the Pooh’.
6. What makes you laugh/cry?
I have a dry sense of humour so I find British comedy programs appeal. Animal stories can be guaranteed to make a tear appear.
7. In which genre do you write?
My first book, ‘Dear H’, was written to appeal to girls of 10 years +. However, on presenting school workshops, I have found the book appeals to boys of a similar age. The sequel, ‘The Daisy Chain’, is YA and mainly aimed at a female audience.
8. What makes your book special, how is it different from other books in your genre?
This is difficult to answer. ‘Dear H’ deals with the subject of bullying which is topical at [image error]the moment. It is a fictional diary written by 12 year old Amanda. It is based on reality, is down to earth and contains valuable messages which I have been told are ‘powerful’. The sequel continues the same theme where Amanda is determined to support any students who are being bullied by starting an anti-bullying group called the Daisy Chain. This book also introduces other characters who are experiencing the trials of the teen years. Again, it is empowering.
9. How do you feel when you write, do you have a special ritual?
No special ritual. I write when I can fit it into my schedule. ‘Dear H’ was a progressive creative pursuit.
10. What inspired you to write your first book?
I have no idea. There has never been a time when I have not been involved in some form of creativity. About 15 years ago, I decided to write some short stories. There was never any idea of publishing. ‘Dear H’ began in a different format to the present diary. The writing was spasmodic and one day, the story had become longer and had transformed into a diary. My neighbour’s granddaughters read the manuscript and urged me to publish the book.
11. How did you come up with the title?
It seemed obvious to me that as a diary it had be ‘Dear ?’. I have no idea why it was written to ‘H’. It could have been any letter in the alphabet!
12. If you could be any famous book character, who would you be and why?
No one springs to mind but it would have to be someone who was strong and resourceful.
13. Is there a message in your book that you hope the readers will grasp?
Definitely! In my writing, I aim to bring awareness to the issues that are relevant to young people of today. I enjoy immersing myself into characters that are dealing with emotional issues and hope that my young readers can identify with the characters and feel empowered and motivated to face the future with the resources and determination they have within themselves.
14. What are your top 3 books of all time?
I have read so many books that I have enjoyed that it would be very hard to select just 3! One of the last books I read was, ‘The Tea Gardens’ by Fiona McIntosh which I really enjoyed.
15. How important is marketing and social media for you?
Without marketing, no one would know anything about your books. I began marketing prior to both of my books being published. This involved reaching out to local radio stations and newspapers, setting up social media pages and informing everyone I knew that I had written a book! I organized book launches for both of my books in the local Art gallery and invited prominent guests. I was fortunate to have a Federal MP attend for the first launch and the local MP for the second. As my book is most suited to school age students, I contacted every school in Perth and this was followed by invitations to present workshops in schools. I was also invited to do similar workshops in a few schools in the UK and gave a lecture at Nottingham University. I do spend a fair amount of time being actively involved in social media. However, I find the results from this disappointing. I sell the majority of my books to local schools. I find it frustrating that I haven’t reached a wider audience when I have received excellent feedback from both students and adults, who have read my books.
16. Is it important for you to get book reviews? Do you read them?
Most definitely. As the majority of my books are purchased from schools and their students, I find it hard to get reviews on social media and on Amazon. The ones I have are all positive and are included on the Review Page of my website.
17. What advice do you have for other writers?
If you have the urge to write, then follow it.
Can you give your book information: blurb, link, genre
Books:
Dear H
Blurb: The book is a fictional diary written by Amanda who is being bullied relentlessly by Cassandra and her gang. She is the daughter of wealthy, successful parents and [image error]materialistically should have everything a girl desires. However, Amanda describes herself as, ‘lonely, fat and frumpy’. She decides to record her experiences in a diary to her imaginary friend who she calls ’H’. Deep inside, Amanda harbours a secret desire to be a singer but her confidence is at an all time low. Writing song lyrics helps her to express herself and a chance encounter with a wheelchair bound singer acts as the catalyst she needs. Read how Amanda achieves her dream.
Age: 10 years ++ (Girls and boys)
ISBN: 978-0-646-92550-9
This book will shortly be available as an e-book
The Daisy Chain
Hook: If you have read Dear H, you will not want to miss reading the sequel, The Daisy Chain..
Blurb: Having won a scholarship, Amanda is now a vocal student at St Celia’s Academy of Music. This involves leaving home for the first time and being confronted by a totally new environment. She continues to write to ‘H’, her imaginary friend with whom she [image error]shares her intimate thoughts and feelings.
At the Academy, Amanda quickly makes friends with Immie and Simon. She is adamant that no one will suffer at the hands of bullies as she was in ‘Dear H’ and is determined that if she hears of any bullying incidents, she will form a support group for those being bullied. After being introduced to Jessica, she realizes that she must go ahead and make a start on forming the Daisy Chain anti-bullying group.
Along the way, the reader is introduced to new characters, Tilly an older student who is sadly forced to leave the Academy and Charlotte who suffers from a stutter.
This story would not be complete if there was no reference to Cassandra, the bully from ‘Dear H’. Find out about her dreadful downfall. Amanda chronicles it and much more in ‘The Daisy Chain’. The ideal book for girls aged from 13 years.
Age: 13 years + (girls)
ISBN: 978-0-6480822-1-7
This book will shortly be available as an e-book
Website: www.dianeguntrip.com
Social Media links:
Facebook: http://www.facebook.com/DianeGuntripAuthor
Instagram: www.instagram.com/dianeguntrip
LinkedIn: www.linkedIn.com/in/diane-guntrip-05912a103/
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: Neither
Dogs or cats: Dogs
Ice-cream or fruit: Fruit
Fact or fiction: Fiction
Music or silence: Depends on my mood
Sport or reading: Reading
Sea or mountains: Both
Groundhogs or squirrels: Both [image error]
Books or movies: Books
E-book or print: E-book if I’m travelling otherwise print
Is there anything more you want to tell your readers?
When I wrote ‘Dear H’, I was unaware of how powerful the book was. Initially, I considered it a book to be read and enjoyed. However, after it was pointed out to me that it contained such a powerful message, I began to view the book in a completely different light. Since then I have been using the book to present workshops in schools. However, I would not like you to think that the book is only for people who are suffering at the hands of bullies. First and foremost, it is a book to be enjoyed. If the reader of any age, takes away a message of empowerment, then all the better.
Thank you for taking the time to read this.
Thank you so much Diane Guntrip!
January 15, 2019
Meet your next favorite author: Eugenia Chu
I was lucky to meet Eugenia Chu in some of the Facebook Author Groups. Just as we saw, in earlier interviews, as Melissa-Sue John and Daisy Copelin did, Eugenia Chu decided to write herself the book she was looking for but couldn’t find.
Because she finds that it is important that Chinese-American kids can learn a bit of vocabulary and Chinese culture while they are reading, Eugenia searched for a children’s narrative in which there was a combination of English and some Mandarin Chinese in the story. She didn’t find them. And so she wrote a lovely and educational story of a boy and his grandma making Chinese dumplings.
Of course, I am always curious what authors reply on the 9th question in the quick-pop quiz. I wonder if there exists a solution so that Eugenia could make her choice between the two animals she both has seen in person…
But now we are wandering off, and it is more than time to give the word to Eugenia herself:
Can you introduce yourself, what’s your name, where are you from… ?
My name is Eugenia Chu and I’m a first-generation Chinese-American citizen. I was born in New Jersey but moved around a lot. I have also lived in Massachusetts, Florida (west coast), Maryland, Pennsylvania, Connecticut, Washington, DC, and New York. In addition, I spent my gap year between college and law school in Taipei, Taiwan, and a summer abroad in Shanghai, China. I now live in Miami Beach with my husband and son, Brandon.
Tell us something unexpected about yourself!
I’m a retired attorney. And I like frogs!
Give 2 things about yourself that you think matter the most?
I’m a mom; and I always try to do the right thing, although sometimes it doesn’t work out that way!
IDENTITY CARD
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Do you remember the first book you read?
I really don’t remember! Probably a Dr. Seuss book – perhaps Cat in the Hat.
What makes you laugh/cry?
My son! He is silly and makes me laugh every day!
In which genre do you write?
Children’s – my first was a picture book; the one I am currently working on is an early chapter book.
What makes your book special, how is it different from other books in your genre?
I wrote Brandon Makes Jiǎo Zi (餃子) specifically because I couldn’t find anything else like it – so I think it is extraordinarily special! When my son was very young, I always read a few stories to him every night before bed so I was constantly looking for new books to buy. I bought tons of children’s picture books but I could never find any books in English which also had some Mandarin Chinese in the story to teach and/or reinforce his Chinese vocabulary. I wanted to find storybooks which included a little Chinese and touched upon Chinese culture, but the only books I could find that had any Chinese in them were ABC/123 instructional type books with no (or very little) storyline or were straight translations with Chinese one side and English on the other. Not what I was looking for. I also didn’t see many books that included both Chinese characters and Pinyin pronunciation. So I started writing my own. This book has Chinese interwoven throughout the story and tells a funny family oriented story – it is not simply instructional or pure translation. Also, the Chinese phrases and sentences are natural and the way a Chinese grandmother and her mostly English-speaking grandson would speak to each other – they are not forced and included simply so that there is some Chinese in the book. I feel that this story will be fun to read for both parents/teachers/caregivers and children alike.
How do you feel when you write, do you have a special ritual?
I really don’t have any special rituals. I write whenever the urge hits me! Although I have more time in the mornings and late at night after my son goes to bed, so I tend to do most of my writing then. I also write in different places – sometimes my office, but more often than not, on the couch with a glass of wine! And usually in my pajamas!
What inspired you to write your first book?
[image error]My son is my inspiration and the reason I write. When my son was very young, after we finished reading a bedtime story (or 2 or 3) every night, we would talk about his day and everything he did. We would make up little stories about his day as we drifted off to sleep. For instance, whenever my parents came to visit, he and my mom would make Chinese dumplings or jiǎo zi together (they still do this to this day). Making jiǎo zi is their favorite thing to do together and was one of the things he loved talking about at bedtime. Because I couldn’t find any storybooks with Chinese included in the story, I started writing my own just for my son based on these bedtime discussions. Brandon Makes Jiǎo Zi (餃子) is based on this beloved tradition between Brandon and my mom.
How did you come up with the title?
It’s descriptive and tells what the story is about. It also lets people know there’s a little Chinese in the story.
If you could be any famous book character, who would you be and why?
You ask tough questions! I would love to give you an answer where the character is deep and helps the world, and my reasoning is equally as impressive and thought provoking . . . but I am going to go with the Cat in the Hat because he is always happy, he’s magical and he has this little Thing One and Thing Two guys doing all his dirty work! He seems to live a charmed life and children love him! And not only is he a famous book character, but he also has his own TV series, so he is a famous TV star, too – haha!
Is there a message in your book that you hope the readers will grasp?
There are 2 (well, more than 2, but these are the most important to me): First, family traditions are special and grandparents should be loved, respected and revered. Spending time with them, learning from them and doing things with them like cooking should be cherished. And second, learning and speaking Chinese is fun! It’s important to learn a second language for so many reasons – not only does it open up a world of job opportunities, help to develop cross-cultural friendships and make traveling easier and more fun, but it also helps with memory improvement and brain power! And children are like little sponges – they absorb languages so much more easily than adults so it’s really beneficial to introduce a foreign language to a child at a young age – the younger the better!
What are your top 3 books of all time?
Wow, that’s a really difficult question! I’m a voracious reader and love so many of the books I have read! I can’t pick just 3!
How important is marketing and social media for you?
It’s the only way to let people know my book even exists so It’s extremely important!
Is it important for you to get book reviews? Do you read them?
I look at reviews when I decide whether to buy something, so I assume others do, too! Therefore, it is very important for me to get book reviews – but, it’s not easy! I hate begging for reviews, but maybe it’s what I need to do. Yikes! And yes, I read all my reviews – even though I have been advised against doing so! So far, I haven’t received any horrible reviews, so I’m happy – just need more!
What advice do you have for other writers?
Write because you love to write and don’t let others discourage you. Not everyone will love what you write, but if it brings you joy then it’s worth it. And if only one other person loves your work and gets pleasure from reading your work, then you are a success! Also, start marketing as soon as possible – even before you publish, if you can! I wish I had done that! Get on social media – set up a Facebook Author page, Twitter account, and Instagram account. Also, set up author pages on Amazon and Goodreads. Join author groups on social media – I have found that most authors are wonderful people who help and support one another! This interview is a great example of one author helping to promote another! Finally, if you write children’s books, get in touch with schools and set up author visits. I sell more books at school readings than anywhere else! And keep writing! Always keep writing! Good luck to all my fellow authors!
Can you give your book information: blurb, link, genre (for children’s book, please tell for what age)
Book:
Brandon Makes Jiǎo Zi (餃子)
Hook: A Picture book with a little Mandarin Chinese about a boy bonding with his [image error]grandma
Blurb: Brandon gets a surprise visit from his grandma from China, Pó Po (婆婆). While Brandon and Pó Po (婆婆) are making jiǎo zi (餃子), Brandon makes a mess and he and Pó Po (婆婆) have a good laugh! They chat and bond over the experience. Then Brandon eats and eats and eats and makes a surprise at the end that delights the whole family! This story includes some conversational Mandarin Chinese (including Pinyin – pronunciation).
Age: 3 – 8 y
Asin (Amazon): B076CQJ1J2
ISBN-10: 9781478790389 – Hard Cover
ISBN-13: 978-1478790389 – Hard Cover
ISBN-10: 1478774088 – Paperback
ISBN-13: 978-1478774082 – Paperback
Book Trailer
Website: http://eugeniachu.com
Social Media links:
Twitter: @chuauthor
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/eugeniachu8245/
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/eugeniachuauthor
Goodreads: https://www.goodreads.com/author/show/17045487.Eugenia_Chu
Amazon: https://www.amazon.com/Eugenia-Chu/e/B0764KGMLL
QUICK POP-QUIZ. (You can choose one or both, and please feel free to add a very brief comment)
Snow or sun: snow (but that could be because I live in Miami and I miss the snow, and I associate snow with vacation!)
Soccer or (ice) hockey: ice hockey
Dogs or cats: dogs (although I also love cats)
Ice-cream or fruit: ice cream
Fact or fiction: fiction
Music or silence: music
Sport or reading: reading
Sea or mountains: sea
Groundhogs or squirrels: I think both are adorable, but if I had to choose one, I guess squirrels because I have never seen a groundhog in person before! Also, my son and I love feeding the squirrels at the parks! So cute!
Books or movies: books
E-book or print: print
Is there anything more you want to tell your readers?
I’m new to this whole writing thing. I’m still always surprised when a stranger reads my book and I’m ecstatic when someone leaves me a nice review! Thank you to everyone who has read, or will be reading, my book – I cherish you all!
December 30, 2018
Meet your next favorite author: Bobbie Hinman
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I am very happy to introduce you today to Bobbie Hinman. She is a Best Selling and Multi Award Winning author.
Just looking at the covers of her books make you at the same time curious and happy. And once opened those books, it’s all you have expected from it. I don’t think there exist one child in the world that doesn’t love Bobbie Hinman’s books. In any case, I am a big fan!
Can you introduce yourself, what’s your name, where are you from… ?
My name is Bobbie Hinman. I grew up in Baltimore, Maryland and am currently living in Paradise, better known as South Florida.
2. Tell us something unexpected about yourself!
Before writing children’s books, I wrote 7 successful cookbooks.
3. Give 2 things about yourself that you think matter the most?
I started reading at age 4 and have been reading steadily ever since.
As a teacher, mother and grandmother, to me there is nothing more precious than a smile on the face of a child.
4. Identity Card
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5. Do you remember the first book you read?
Dick and Jane (Boy, that dates me!)
6. What makes you laugh/cry?
Children, kittens and puppies make me laugh. Anything that hurts my family or friends makes me cry.
7. In which genre do you write?
I’ve gone from cookbooks to children’s picture books and this is where I plan to stay.
8. What makes your book special, how is it different from other books in your genre?
My fairy books have one premise in common: “Who better to blame it on than a fairy?” They encourage children to use their imaginations and just have fun.
9. How do you feel when you write, do you have a special ritual?
Rituals don’t work for me. Ideas flutter into my brain in an unpredictable way; when it happens, I write.
10. What inspired you to write your first book?
When my 4-year old granddaughter, Emily, refused to let anyone comb her curly locks, I created The Knot Fairy. I don’t know where the story came from. One minute it wasn’t there, and the next minute there it was! It blames the knots and tangles on a fairy, making Emily anxious to have her hair combed so the fairy would come back and tangle it again.
11. How did you come up with the title?
This was an easy one. What else could you call the fairy who tangles your hair?
12. If you could be any famous book character, who would you be and why?
I’ve always thought of myself as a Pippi Longstocking want-to-be. She was fun, creative and very smart. And I loved the way she dressed.
13. Is there a message in your book that you hope the readers will grasp?
Switching genres, I would like to talk about the message in my how-to book, How to Create a Successful Children’s Picture Book. My message in this book is, “Do your research, do your homework and make your book as close to perfect as you can. No amount of marketing will sell a poor-quality book.”
14. What are your top 3 books of all time?
I have so many, but these are perfect to me: The Red Tent, Memoirs of a Geisha, Angela’s Ashes.
15. How important is marketing and social media for you?
Marketing is essential and has to continue throughout the life of the book. Social media is a great platform, but I don’t think it should be your only platform. A well-rounded marketing plan, complete with on-person sales is often the best way to go.
16. Is it important for you to get book reviews?
Book reviews from reputable reviewers are an important validation of the quality of your work. Just as important are awards. Prospective customers are impresses when they see shiny award stickers on your books.
17. What advice do you have for other writers?
Talk to children in the age group you are targeting. Find out what they like to do and what they like to read. When your manuscript is complete, read it to them and listen to what they have to say. Also, never publish a book that has not been professionally edited.
18. Can you give your book information: blurb, link, genre (for children’s book, please tell for what age)
Books
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How to Create a Successful Children’s Picture Book
Blurb: Best-selling author Bobbie Hinman tells you how she created, self-published and sold over 50,000 copies of her award-winning children’s picture books
Asin: B0721Y8DZN
ISBN: 978-0978679194
Fairy books –
Rhyming picture books with audio CD – Age 3 to 6
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The Knot Fairy – Who tangled my hair while I was sleeping?
The Sock Fairy – Where is my other sock?
The Belly Button Fairy – Who put my belly button right in the middle?
The Fart Fairy – It wasn’t me!
The Freckle Fairy – Have I been kissed by a fairy?
Website: https://www.bestfairybooks.com
Email: fairybooklady@bestfairybooks.com
Amazon Author page
19. POP QUIZ
Snow or sun: Sun, sun, sun!
Soccer or (ice) hockey: Soccer. I’m afraid of big sticks.
Dogs or cats: At this point in my life, definitely cats.
Music or silence: Silence for working, music I can sing to at all other times.
Groundhogs or squirrels: Squirrels. They are so persistent.
Books or movies: Books when I’m alone. I love movies with my girlfriends or hubby.
My five fairy books have received a combined total of 28 children’s book awards. In my new book, I share my journey. My goal is to help other authors achieve the same success. I also offer editing and critique services for children’s books, and love to help other authors as much as I can.
December 15, 2018
Meet your next favorite author: Trisha J Kelly
Recently I read ’24 Sleeps to Go’ by Trisha J. Kelly. This was such a joy.
What a great imagination this author has!
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Trisha started writing books not so long ago. But she wrote in a roller-coaster tempo and published in a short time many books that I want to have on my To-Read Bookshelf.
I love stories with extraordinary creatures, ghosts, wizards and for sure witches and love to visit places I haven’t heard of before… So that makes that her Series ‘Scarlett and Mason’, for which Trisha Kelly won two Book Awards, sound fascinating, and I hope I can read soon.
Can you introduce yourself, what’s your name, where are you from… ?
Hello, Lieve, what a surprise! I’m honoured to be chosen for an interview. My name is Trisha J Kelly and I live in the UK. I was born in the capital, London. I live in the South-East corner of England. For those unfamiliar with the area, I have lived in the counties of: Essex, Suffolk, Norfolk and South Lincolnshire. Currently, we live in West Norfolk, very close to the sea. This is a beautiful part of the country.
Tell us something unexpected about yourself!
I’ve never done anything out of the ordinary, but I have been known to sing a few songs! I’m a very shy person believe it or not! After a few glasses of wine, I would happily sing in front of hundreds of people, which I have done a few times. I like to sing country music.
Give 2 things about yourself that you think matter the most?
I’m a very genuine person and I would help anyone where I can. So, I would say that firstly, the most important thing to me is to be a supportive wife, mother and friend. Secondly, I care, I’m an empath. Sometimes this is a hard cross to bear when so much in the world is not ideal. I would like to see all people happy, well-fed and sheltered.
Identity Card
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5. Do you remember the first book you read?
The first book I remember reading that I really loved, was a colourful, beautifully illustrated, ‘Lady and the Tramp’. I thought Lady was so very pretty and I really loved the blue and red collars that she and Tramp wore, with the shiny gold tags. I’m still upset to this day because I fell asleep reading the book and when I woke the next morning, it was gone!! Over fifty years later I still have no idea where it went. We did have gremlins in the house I grew up in, so it’s no surprise!
6. What makes you laugh/cry?
I’m a practical joker and I do have a wicked sense of humour. Throughout my lifetime I’ve played many jokes on people. I will give you an example. One of my best friends used to live next-door to me. For some bizarre reason, she put a lot of her furniture out on her front lawn one day because she was spring cleaning! I thought it would be funny to sneak outside and put all price tags on everything she owned as it looked like a yard sale! I thought this was hilarious, her, not so much!
I think the older you get the more prone you are to be tearful about things. Maybe, because you experience the pain of losing loved ones. You appreciate more how fragile life is, and how precious. So, the things that would make me cry now are the memories of all my dear loved ones no longer here. The most recent time I cried was when one of our two beloved dogs was very poorly, and I thought we were going to lose him. I get sad seeing homeless and hungry people in the world.
7. In which genre do you write?
I have been writing for two years. To date, I have written two genres. Children’s books and crime thrillers. I have two books that are partly written. One is YA, another is the first in a cold-case mystery series. I’m having a short break over the winter as I’ve written ten books, one screenplay and several short stories and poems in a small amount of time. I have made two new covers for two types of cozy mysteries. This is something I would love to tackle in 2019! I’ve always fancied myself as a Miss Marple. I love Margaret Rutherford in the films.
8. What makes your book special, how is it different from other books in your genre?
The most meaningful books I have written, are my six-part middle-grade series. Each book is one complete story, a quest. The books together form one huge quest! It is [image error]different because of the meaning behind the series. I have tried to incorporate lots of fun, magic, time-travel, aliens, ghosts, strange creatures and just about every element that makes for a great read. The difference being, there is a strong message throughout the whole series. The purpose of the books is to make the world a much better place, as it should be, cleverly disguised as an adventure.
9. How do you feel when you write, do you have a special ritual?
I am affectionately known among fellow writers as ‘the machine’. There is no ritual, rhyme or reason in my writing. I have an idea and off I go on impulse. The ideas come into my head, boom, boom, boom. Each story just unravels, in front of my eyes. I guess you could label me creative. I only had to research a few historical facts in my children’s series and some geographical research for my second crime thriller. Other than that, it all comes from my imagination. Trisha does not plan, she is a total panster! I wrote one book in 17 days. My recent Christmas books were both an ‘idea’ and within four weeks, I had written them, edited, formatted and made the covers. Did you ever watch the film ‘Forrest Gump?’ – ‘Run Forrest, Run!’ I started two years ago, only I wrote, not ran. Now, I am coming up for air! I have an idea for a story and the inspiration to race along to the end.
10. What inspired you to write your first book?
I first thought about writing about 25 years ago. I wrote a book called ‘The Bromington Nomad’. When I finished typing and printing each page, I put it in a folder. It is still in that folder! At that time, I wrote a few poems. Around six of them were published in books consisting of lots of other writers. Then I stopped, picking up again at the age of 57! I like poetry. When I was 9 or 10, I went to school one day to find my teacher had entered me into a national competition for a piece I wrote about ‘George and the Dragon’. I’d no idea he had done this. I was awarded with a first prize winner’s certificate and a silver pen. I’ve never forgotten my teacher for doing that for me. Flipping forward to 2016 I had a thought. ‘I’m going to write a book,’ I said.
‘That’s nice!’ said my family. I showed them all when I sat and wrote it! Nobody was more surprised than me! The idea for the book was a simple one. I based the two MC’s Scarlett and her younger brother, Mason, on myself and my younger brother. I was the eldest sibling, the sensible one, he was the youngest and naughty. I lost my brother a few years ago. So, I dedicated the first book to his memory.
11. How did you come up with the title?
The title is ‘Discovering Witchetty Waters.’ Again, it was a brainstorm – the name jumped into my head and I wrote the story.
12. If you could be any famous book character, who would you be and why?
Miss Marple! I love her character and her brilliant brain. If I were male, then Poirot would be my choice. Agatha Christie was an amazing writer and I love the challenge of trying to solve the mystery in each story. There is something cosy and warm about these old-fashioned story settings. Times were so much nicer then, apart from the murders of course!
13. Is there a message in your book that you hope the readers will grasp?
Yes, the world would be a much better place if it were full of promise and possibilities. However, until we can magic everything that would make every day a sunny one, we can be nice to one another.
14. What are your top 3 books of all time?
I love to read thrillers and fantasy. Not a book, but a series, three of them. I have been reading all the books written by Mark Dawson. He has become a very successful writer and now lives the dream. His books are being made into films when everyone will then get to know of him. His thriller series about ‘John Milton’ is my favourite. Secondly, I am totally in love with the ‘Lord of the Rings’ trilogy and ‘The Hobbit’. My third choice is the ‘Harry Potter’ story. I do think both series have been bought to life wonderfully as films.
15. How important is marketing and social media for you?
Now I have written so much, I am having a break. I want to focus on more marketing. I do believe in my books and would like to get them seen as far and wide as I can. I would love readers to get to know my six-book children series. The dream there would be to see it visually! The gadgets, worlds, and creations are fascinating. Social media is very important. I have made lots of great new friends in the writing world who are very supportive. I too, run a group for authors and moderate in two others. I also help promote books that are solely written for charity.
16. Is it important for you to get book reviews? Do you read them?
Oh yes! I only have a few and I get quite excited when I see a new one! I have been lucky to receive great reviews and comments. I have had a very fortunate year, thank you reviewers, especially the young ones. When your readers prefer your books to their favourite very well-known authors, well, it surely cannot get any better! It gives you a terrific boost knowing that you are on the right track.
17. What advice do you have for other writers?
Never stop learning. I can’t believe how far I’ve come in the last two years. The great advice, the looking and listening involved, absorb everything like a sponge. A great way to mark your progress is when things become clear to you and you find that you can pay forward and give valuable advice to other writers. Be patient. It probably takes three to four years to really become established. I feel like I’m halfway there. I have won two awards this year for my first and second books in the Scarlett and Mason series. Best Children’s book 2018 and Best Juvenile Fantasy 2018. Now I can call myself an award-winning author and it feels great. I do help others as much as I can when I’m asked for advice. That is a lovely feeling. However, I still have more to learn.
18. Can you give your book information: blurb, link, genre (for children’s book, please tell for what age)
I won’t give the information for all my books it would take too long to read! I have just released two books for children: ‘24 Sleeps to Go’ is an advent of 24 Christmas stories. This week I have published: Blinky, Nutkins and Friends. Just in time for Christmas again! A delightful tale of a bunch of friends who leave their forest to go in search of Santa. I will give you the details for this book:
Books
Blinky, Nutkins and Friends: The Journey to Santa’s Village
Hook: Will Blinky and his friends ever find Santa’s Village?
Blurb: The wise and ancient owls have passed their fables down through many generations. Of all the stories, this is the most important one of all! Is everything about to come true?
[image error]When a few furry friends from the Fabled Forest have an unexpected meeting, they discover something extraordinary! One of them has spotted something that is very important indeed.
The excited squirrel has seen it for himself. It all starts one early morning when Nutkins is perched at the very top of the highest tree. Suddenly, he sees them! He rushes and scrambles down the branches to go in search of his best friends, Blinky and Prickles because he must tell someone, and he must do it right away!
Will they believe him? They really must! The KnightFlyers do exist and the owl and the hedgehog, know how very important that is! The friends have precious secrets and it seems Percival Nightowl was right all along. In the dark of the night, when all around them are sleeping, the friends sneak away from the forest. They aren’t alone. Two pairs of eyes are watching them, and they want to be part of the upcoming adventure. For two very different reasons!
Asin (Amazon): B07KTZ9VJ4
ISBN: 9781790294039
Age: Reading age approx 8 and upwards. Suitability listening age, from 5 upwards.
Asin: B07KTZ9VJ4
ISBN: 9781790294039
24 Sleeps to Go.
Hook: A wonderful selection of short bedtime stories for the advent period 1-24 December.
Blurb: 24 Sleeps to Go is an advent of wonderful Christmas stories for young people. Suitable for children from 3-11 years- of -age, but nobody’s counting! This book is an [image error]original creation of festive bedtime stories for young minds. Read one story a night from the 1st to the 24th December.
Discover many secrets about Santa and his family members who are not so well-known. Generations of story-tellers and listeners will love this timeless selection of exciting yuletide tales.
Just when you thought you knew everything there is to know about Father Christmas, you learn something new! There are so many more people and characters to meet, hidden all around the world. Have you any idea where the chocolates come from, that hang on your Christmas trees?
What about the mystery of the selection boxes, snowmen that have special powers! Just what will you find out about the Snowy Hollow snow globe or nasty Rubella Minx? Meet the new pantomime characters and much, much, more in your very own countdown to Christmas…
Scarlett and Mason Series (Children’s Fantasy & Magic)
Hook: Siblings, Scarlett and Mason Beckett begin a whole new way of life as The Chosen Two in this six-book series.
Blurb: Everything has a beginning. For chosen siblings, Scarlett and Mason, the adventure begins the moment they move to Witchery Waters, at least, you would think it does, but you’d be wrong!
In a world as mysterious as this, something magical is afoot. Over 600 years ago many plans were executed and put in place.
The truth of who the children really are and why they are here soon becomes clear. It doesn’t take long for events to unfold when the inhabitants of the islands suck them inside their fascinating worlds. The siblings’ quest to break the ancient curses has just begun.
Genre: Children’s. Suitable for age 5 and upwards with a reading age of appro 8 years of age.
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Discovering Witchetty Waters – book 1 – T his book is voted Book Talk Radio [image error]Club ‘Best Children’s Book 2018′!
In the Wrong Lifetime – book 2 – This book won the Pulp Den ‘Best Juvenile Fantasy 2018’ Book Award!
The Rise of Sorcha – book 3
When Some Were Missing – book 4
The Great Storm of 1397 – book 5
The Mystery of the Ancient Key – book 6
Trisha J. Kelly’s Crime Thrillers:
Harry’s Secrets
The Conflict
Website
https://www.trishajkellypublications.co.uk/
https://trishajkellypublications849565963.wordpress.com/
Social Media links:
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/TrishajkellyAuthor/
Twitter: https://twitter.com/Trishajkelly
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/trishaj.kelly/
Amazon: https://www.amazon.co.uk/Trisha-J.-Kelly/e/B06XHJZPDP
Tumblr: https://www.tumblr.com/blog/scarlettandmasoncreator
Pinterest: https://www.pinterest.co.uk/trishakelly123/
Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/trisha-kelly-17093a167/
Goodreads: https://www.goodreads.com/author/show/16563050.Trisha_J_Kelly
Email: info@trishajkellypublications.co.uk
QUICK POP-QUIZ. (You can choose one or both, and please feel free to add a very brief comment)
Snow or sun: Sun. It’s much happier.
Soccer or (ice) hockey: Soccer. I have no choice!
Dogs or cats: Dogs. I love my two.
Ice-cream or fruit: Ice-cream, except when I’m being good.
Fact or fiction: Fiction. I love escapism.
Music or silence: Silence. Perfect.
Sport or reading: Reading. Always.
Sea or mountains: Both.
Groundhogs or squirrels: Squirrels.
Books or movies: Books. I like to use my own imagination.
E-book or print: E-book. Just so much easier. Sometimes a print, when the cover is lovely.
Is there anything more you want to tell your readers?
If you have read all of this, then I want to thank you very much! I love writing for you all and if in turn, you like my stories, please share them! I would love the kids especially, to see the children’s books. The remarks they make are priceless. I had a great review from a ten-year-old for Discovering Witchetty Waters. It makes it all worthwhile. I keep all my e-books at 99p, so everyone can afford them. The kind reviews and comments mean so much to me as an up and coming writer. When you are starting out, it is your payment. So, it’s nice to meet you, stay safe and be happy.
November 30, 2018
Meet your next favorite author: Alma Hammond
Before I met Alma Hammond in different Facebook Author Groups, I read her book ‘Super Rooster and Wonder Cat‘ and I totally loved it. It gave me a sweet remembering of a beach walk I did when I was on holidays in Uruguay.
In this book, two friends, a rooster and a cat had a great chat while they were going to [image error]watch the sunrise every morning. They tell each other what superpowers they have. When they meet up with a crab, a strange looking fish, and a shark, they first were afraid of these creatures. But with a cock-a-doodle-dazzle they understood quickly, there was no reason to be afraid. What fun to point out to kids that everybody has her/his superpowers. After the story Alma Hammond asked the children what superpowers they love the most, and important, to name what are theirs.
You can imagine that afterward, I was happy that I met this amazing author. I recently read her wonderful new book ‘Zetta the Poinsettia’, which was for several weeks #1 at Amazon New Release. Find out more about this amazing author Alma Hammond at Meet Your Next Favorite Author.
Can you introduce yourself, what’s your name, where are you from… ?
Hello! My name is Alma Hammond. I am originally from Charlotte, NC and currently live in Bethesda, MD USA.
2. Tell us something unexpected about yourself!
I’ll tell you a few. I’m one of eight children, speak English and French, and bits of other languages, and once lived in Nepal for two years in the mid-nineties.
3. Give 2 things about yourself that you think matter the most?
I have my health and loving family and friends.
4. Identity Card
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5. Do you remember the first book you read?
Maybe Snow White?
6. What makes you laugh/cry?
Love Simon’s Cat. What makes me cry is the abuse of animals.
7. In which genre do you write?
Picture Books, age 3 – 8.
8. What makes your book special, how is it different from other books in your genre?
All my books hopefully both educates and captivates a child. To me, learning even as an adult is what is most exciting about life, and I want to share it with children.
9. How do you feel when you write, do you have a special ritual?
Energized. I write early in the am, even before coffee, in my kitchen with my two cats and dog at my feet.
10. What inspired you to write your first book?
A honeymoon to Tahiti where I ran into a pair of unlikely friends on the beach – a rooster and cat.
11. How did you come up with the title?
I imaged the friends had superpowers and was sharing them with other sea creatures on the beach. The superpowers were all the animal’s true survival skills.
12. If you could be any famous book character, who would you be and why?
The independent, confident, Karen Blixen in Out of Africa.
13. Is there a message in your book that you hope the readers will grasp?
Diversity in life is what create’s its beauty. All life should be respected.
14. What are your top 3 books of all time?
I have so many, but these are perfect to me: The Red Tent, Memoirs of a Geisha, Angela’s Ashes.
15. How important is marketing and social media for you?
Very. It’s important to keep in touch with others and make relationships.
16. Is it important for you to get book reviews?
Absolutely, and yes!
17. What advice do you have for other writers?
Don’t second guess your writing, just keep doing it, don’t be afraid to get advice when you need it.
18. Can you give your book information: blurb, link, genre (for children’s book, please tell for what age)
Books
Zetta the Poinsettia
[image error]Hook: A darling story in verse perfect for the holidays or year-round that comes with the message that we each have a purpose—the gift we give to others.
Blurb: In the tale of Zetta the Poinsettia, a “holiday plant” finds her worth outside her season to shine.
Asin (Amazon): B07JXCWMZG
ISBN: 978-0998536262
Ages: 3-8
Super Rooster and Wonder Cat
Hook: Have a little explorer in your life? Children will enjoy strolling on the beach with [image error]Rooster and Cat in Tahiti as they discover wondrous creatures.
Blurb: On the island of Bora Bora, two unlikely friends share one very likable adventure in this heart-warming story celebrating uniqueness.
Asin (Amazon): B073N14C11
ISBN: 978-0998536200
Age: 3 – 8
More: 5 times award winner!
Andre the Five-Star Cat
[image error]Hook: A delightful tale of a spoiled Parisian cat who learns that friendship means giving as well as receiving.
Blurb: Andre the cat couldn’t be more spoiled, until one morning he is unable to enter his luxurious hotel home. His adventures in the nearby Tuileries gardens teach him to appreciate his life and to value friendship above all.
Asin (Amazon): B077TG196S
ISBN: 978-0998536231
Ages: 3 – 8
Website www.sweetbeetbooks.com
Social Media:
Twitter: https://twitter.com/almarhammond
Goodreads: https://www.goodreads.com/author/show/16966072.Alma_Hammond
FB Fan Page: https://www.facebook.com/AlmaRLeakanHammond/
19. POP QUIZ
Snow or sun: Sun
Soccer or (ice) hockey: hockey
Dogs or cats: Cats
Ice-cream or fruit: Ice Cream
Fact or fiction: Fiction with a smattering of Fact, love historical fiction!
Music or silence: Silence
Sport or reading: Reading
Sea or mountains: Sea[image error]
Groundhogs or squirrels: Groundhogs
Books or movies: Books
E-book or print: Print
20. Is there anything more you want to tell your readers?
After years of working in the very dry, technical field of IT, I am very happy to be finally doing my passion. Writing for kids is a joy to me, because I love to share with others fascinating bits I learn about life.
November 15, 2018
Meet your next favorite author: Sarah Northwood
Sarah Northwood is an author with many talents. She is also a dreamer and a believer, unicorns really do exist, she has seen them with her own eyes. So it is not surprising to see unicorns are appearing in her children’s books as well as in her poetry books.
This is how I met Sarah in different Facebook Author groups. The unicorns were always nearby. ‘The Legend of the Unicorn’, a nice story with a bit of magic was a great read. Sarah Northwood is not only a Multi Award Winning Author, she is also very supportive of other authors. I must say I love this extraordinary experience that lives in these groups between Indie Authors, a world of friendship, exchanging valuable tips, inspire, giving support and advice to each other. And Sarah Northwood is a very active member of these groups.
Thanks to this interview I know a bit more about her, where her believe in unicorns come from, how she came to write… And that she not only writes children’s books and poetry but also thrillers and horror. Always with strong women’s characters. I’m happy to present you Sarah Northwood!
Can you introduce yourself, what’s your name, where are you from… ?
Hello Lieve, thank you so much for this interview! For those who don’t know me, my name is Sarah Northwood and I’m a UK based Fiction Author for both Adults and Children. I live in a small village in Cheshire and grew up close by. I originally thought that I would go into physiotherapy as a career. When I was still in Secondary School I had the misfortune of being hit by a car. The physiotherapists who looked after me were amazing and really inspired me! I decided to pursue studies in Science and Health studies with that goal in mind, but I ultimately ended up working in scientific research for a pharmaceutical company, after I got an apprenticeship which allowed me to study part-time. I stayed for almost twenty years!
[image error] 2. Tell us something unexpected about yourself!
Tell you something unexpected, that’s a tricky one as I’m such a straightforward and boring person! Here’s something that some people may not know, when I was younger I was a keen horse rider. At one point our family owned and loved three horses. I think perhaps that is where my mild obsession with unicorns may have come from.
3. Give 2 things about yourself that you think matter the most?
You like to ask some challenging questions! The first and foremost thing that matters deeply to me is how much I love my family. I am a wife and mum and without their love I would not be the person I am. The other thing that matters to me most, is that even though I’m not a confident person and more recently this has been mixed with anxiety, I channel this into my writing and self-expression. It’s important because it provides not only therapy but stops anxiety from defining me.
Identity Card
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5. Do you remember the first book you read?
I can’t recall the first book I ever read but I know I had quite a few favourites. The Faraway Tree was one and I loved all the Famous Five books. I still remember reading Black Beauty and crying!
6. What makes you laugh/cry?
I laugh the most when I’m being crazy with my girls. Children have such brilliant imaginations. Just recently we started doing these little videos with their teddies where we make up characters and stories. I’ve even tried to do some voices/accents. H’angry, one of the characters makes us all laugh so much! I don’t cry often really, tending to be more the type that bubbles away on the inside but if my girls are having a hard time at School then that can set me off. I do also love a good ‘weepy’ film, when I need to have a good cry. It’s therapeutic to get it out!
7. In which genre do you write?
As I mentioned I like to write in multiple genres. So far this has included, psychological and horror thrillers, poetry for adults and children, fantasy for children, my most recent release is a young adult story based on magical realism.
8. What makes your book special, how is it different from other books in your genre?
I’m certainly not unique in the genres that I write in and often face heavy competition. I hope it’s not arrogant to say that I like to think what makes my books special is me, I always put pieces of my own heart inside them. I like to make my stories unique and write characters in such a way that it might change people’s perceptions. I often write with an emphasis on girls finding their power or winning through adversity. I feel my voice is distinctive and powerful.
9. How do you feel when you write, do you have a special ritual?
My writing rituals…Well, first I draw a pentagram on the floor and offer up a sacrifice. No, I’m just joking! My ritual is simple really, a peaceful environment. My laptop and alone time work best. I’m one of those who often finds writing frustrating, but it can also be the most satisfying thing in the world. When you’ve been searching for the perfect sentence or way to describe something and you put it down, there is no feeling like it!
10. What inspired you to write your first book?
I was inspired to write my first book after discovering poetry. Writing really found me, I was in a bad place at the time and suddenly this creative outlet appeared. I’ve never looked back, or once regretted my choice to become an author. Currently I have ten published books on Amazon.
11. How did you come up with the title?
I’ve removed the first book I published, which was called Inner Voice because I didn’t feel it met my standards any longer. It was hard to pull something I had put so much time and energy into, but it felt like the right decision. The title was based around those feelings we all have telling us we’re not good enough to do things, when really, we can.
12. If you could be any famous book character, who would you be and why?
My mind always goes completely blank when I get asked these questions. I’d like to choose someone the opposite of me, confident and powerful. How about Galadriel from Lord of the Rings? I confess though I’ve only seen the films and not read the book.
13. Is there a message in your book that you hope the readers will grasp?
Because I write in different genres this is a harder question to answer, so, I’ll talk generally. I don’t specifically set out to write stories that have a message in them, rather I pour my emotions and reactions into the scenarios I write about. I hope readers might grasp that my stories are about how the small acts of kindness can change the world, adversity comes to us all and it is our choices that define us. I write about strong female characters who makes these kinds of decisions.
14. What are your top 3 books of all time?
You know, I don’t have a top three list of my favourite books. I love reading so many different things and I’m not good at choosing favourites! I will say that I am thrilled to be friends with authors who I am fans of though. How awesome is that?!
15. How important is marketing and social media for you?
Marketing and social media? Social media is extremely important to me. Without it I would never have met my wonderful author friends and missed out on the wealth of knowledge that can be gained. If you have a question or need to know something the indieverse is there! I’ve had amazing opportunities by networking in groups, won book awards through social media and met friends and fans of my work. I’ve discovered so many great reads this way and of course, I run my own author page and street team on Facebook. Marketing is also important, it’s an opportunity to let readers know about your work and show them why they might be interested in reading your books. I do wish I had more business acumen when it comes to this side of things as I feel I could do better.
16. Is it important for you to get book reviews?
Yes, and yes. I’m a person who needs and thrives off feedback, so reviews are important. It’s often the first opportunity to discover if readers have enjoyed your stories. It also gives potential customers advice on your product and lets them know if it might be something they want to read. I take the time to read every review, looking for areas to improve on and delighting in a positive one. I make sure I always review every book that I personally read. The only exception to this is the stories I read with my children to support their school work, as I often don’t read the whole book.
17. What advice do you have for other writers?
The advice I would give to other writers is to have tenacity and determination because there will be plenty of times you’ll need. Make friends with other writer’s, these are invaluable. Finally, if you find yourself stuck, the best advice I can offer is to read. I always find it helps me to get reinvigorated.
18. Can you give your book information: blurb, link, genre (for children’s book, please tell for what age)
Books
The Westwood Witches
[image error]Blurb: Aero trembled as she held the box sealed inside black paper. The dilemma was a difficult one – her mum had told her the box contained secrets she might not be ready for. Once she opened it, there would be no going back…
Aero has always felt like a misfit and an outsider. Thankfully, having a best friend like Lilly, along with a grandma like Joanna, makes life worth living. But a terrible event tears her world apart, and Aero Westwood is about to discover that her family has more secrets than most.
Genre: YA Fiction
ASIN: B07GTN9BMF
ISBN-10: 1718188110
ISBN-13: 978-1718188112
Legend of the Night Unicorn
[image error]Blurb: Martha is excited about her trip on the steam train up Mystic Mountain. She finds out from a kind old man how the train got its name. Legend has it there’s a night unicorn who lives on the mountain.
After Martha arrives at the top of the mountain peak, she has one burning question. All she wants to do is find out if the legend is true.
Are unicorns real?
Genre: Short Children’s Story (4-8yrs)
ASIN: B07B4YQYX6
ISBN-10: 1980436363
ISBN-13: 978-1980436362
Aerwyn, The Girl Who Dreams
Blurb: Once upon a time, there was a young girl called Aerwyn. Her eyes sparkled the [image error]colour of blue sapphires in the sunlight, and her golden hair flowed down over her shoulders, ending with a small but perfect curl. Aerwyn had a secret, but in every other way, she was a perfectly normal seven-year-old girl. Meet Aerwyn, the girl who dreams. Every night Aerwyn and her imaginary friend, Katie, go on magical adventures. The only problem is ‘how can she keep this secret from her best friend? And what would happen if she told her?’
Genre: Short Children’s Story (4-8yrs)
ASIN: B0787KNSZ3
ISBN-10: 1786120747
ISBN-13: 978-1786120748
Unicorns are real and other cool poems
[image error]Blurb: This is a poem book especially for you, where Unicorns are real and dreams do come true. With goggle woggle spiders whizzing on skates and food that is rude when it is put on a plate. With bottoms that snore and a fun dinosaur, also mermaids and fairies, so it’s never a bore. So settle down cosy when it starts to get late, fluff up your pillow, get your blankets straight. Each poem is magic, each poem is new and each one was made especially for you.
Genre: Short Children’s Poetry (4-8 yrs)
ASIN: B071W9G3DS
ISBN-10: 1547141344
ISBN-13: 978-1547141340
Hook: Poems that inspire a touch of magic, imagination and fantasy. Uplifting and light to read.
Genre: Children’s Poetry
ASIN: B076CPHBXW
ISBN-10: 197819823X
ISBN-13: 978-1978198234
Sarah Northwood’s other books are:
Poetry: Little Moments of Calm
Poetry: The Truths We Tell,
Thriller: She’s Not Gone
Thriller: The Unravelling
Horror: The Volunteer
Website: https://www.sarahnorthwood-author.com
Social Media:
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/SarahNorthwoodAuthor
Goodreads: https://www.goodreads.com/author/show/14694497.Sarah_Northwood
Twitter: https://twitter.com/northwood_sarah
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/northwoodsarah
POP QUIZ
Snow or sun: SUN! (I need the bright days)
Soccer or (ice) hockey: ?
Dogs or cats: Dogs, I’m allergic to cats
Ice-cream or fruit: Ice-cream
Fact or fiction: Fiction
Music or silence: For writing silence, otherwise music
Sport or reading: Reading
Sea or mountains: Sea
Groundhogs or squirrels: Squirrels
Books or movies: Both
E-book or print: Both
20. Is there anything more you want to tell your readers?
I’d just add one more thing as I’m thrilled about this recent news. I am now an honorary member of the World Nations Writers Union and an honorary member of the “World Higher Literary Academic Council.” I will also be the Chairperson for the Jury Board and English Jury Chief of their contest, Worlds Best Poet-World Best Writer.
November 5, 2018
Mrs Average video review of ‘Groundhog Secrets’
“In the beginning, I was a bit sniffy about the book, well, I didn’t want to know much about groundhogs. But they are fascinating animals and I’m thrilled we read the book, it is wonderful and very visual. Lieve Snellings is a passionate photographer, so it has this lovely makes of real photographs, mixed with animations. It is as if groundhogs are talking to us about their lives. It is very funny, very charming, we learned a lot and we laughed a lot. We will read more of Lieve’s work, it’s just hilarious, but really informative as well. I have to say it is up there as one of the best non-fiction for children I’ve read. If kids have to do a topic for school and they could get access to get information as beautifully delivered like this, which is funny and easy to engage with, that would be wonderful.”
Click here at watch the video review by Mrs. Average Evaluate.
Isn’t it heavenly to receive such a book review! It made my day.
