Suzy Davies's Blog: Book News, page 16
March 13, 2018
Author Booksigning
Just to let you know, I am getting ready to do my first ever author book signing in Deland, Florida for "Luna The Moon Pig: The Pig Who Hid" a Children's Book illustrated with hand-drawn cartoon-style color illustrations by the legendary Sheila Graber, famous for drawing Paddington Bear, and now, Luna!
The author book signing will be at Muse Bookshop in Deland from 5.30 E.S.T to 8 p.m tomorrow, 14th March 2018.
All Welcome!
The author book signing will be at Muse Bookshop in Deland from 5.30 E.S.T to 8 p.m tomorrow, 14th March 2018.
All Welcome!
March 11, 2018
What is a Good Book?
Ask people what makes a good book and there will be all kinds of answers! But here's a little analogy about what I believe makes a good book!
Think back to the time you received a gift - a gift you treasured for the rest of your life.
What made that gift so special? The chances are you will say the person who gave it to you. "They didn't bother to wrap it - well you know, it's the thought that counts," or something like that.
Now, think about what would make almost any gift appealing if you didn't know the person who sent it very well at all. A bit like a writer you have never read, (the giver,) but when you open the book to read it, it strikes a chord, deep within you - it speaks to you. You may even think that the writer has read YOUR thoughts.
My guess is that you were drawn to the book because of the advertising, the cover and so on. In other words, the presentation or wrapping enticed you!
As you began to read - unwrapped this present (the book) you couldn't wait for the reveal, frantically turning the pages for the next surprise.
Personally, I like to wrap presents in layers - an outside wrapping paper, inner tissue paper, and maybe sprinkled sequins or sparkles that are "themed" to go with the gift. Although the recipient has clues as to the contents, it is only when they open the inner layers of tissue paper that the gift is revealed! It is also true of good books, which are deep, and have layers of meaning. I think Stephen King said that a good book should not reveal all its secrets at once, and a good writer will drop golden nuggets or clues (the wrapping) that build tension, excitement, and anticipation in the
reader.
A good book is written in such a way that it appeals to all the senses! Have you ever watched folks when they get a present, and they can't wait to see what's inside? They feel the packaging, study its shape. They may try to smell it or rattle it, to see what it smells like or sounds like.
And of course, when they know what their present is, it should live up to their expectations and be suitable for them. That is why every good book has something to say and is written with a particular audience - an ideal reader, in mind.
Think back to the time you received a gift - a gift you treasured for the rest of your life.
What made that gift so special? The chances are you will say the person who gave it to you. "They didn't bother to wrap it - well you know, it's the thought that counts," or something like that.
Now, think about what would make almost any gift appealing if you didn't know the person who sent it very well at all. A bit like a writer you have never read, (the giver,) but when you open the book to read it, it strikes a chord, deep within you - it speaks to you. You may even think that the writer has read YOUR thoughts.
My guess is that you were drawn to the book because of the advertising, the cover and so on. In other words, the presentation or wrapping enticed you!
As you began to read - unwrapped this present (the book) you couldn't wait for the reveal, frantically turning the pages for the next surprise.
Personally, I like to wrap presents in layers - an outside wrapping paper, inner tissue paper, and maybe sprinkled sequins or sparkles that are "themed" to go with the gift. Although the recipient has clues as to the contents, it is only when they open the inner layers of tissue paper that the gift is revealed! It is also true of good books, which are deep, and have layers of meaning. I think Stephen King said that a good book should not reveal all its secrets at once, and a good writer will drop golden nuggets or clues (the wrapping) that build tension, excitement, and anticipation in the
reader.
A good book is written in such a way that it appeals to all the senses! Have you ever watched folks when they get a present, and they can't wait to see what's inside? They feel the packaging, study its shape. They may try to smell it or rattle it, to see what it smells like or sounds like.
And of course, when they know what their present is, it should live up to their expectations and be suitable for them. That is why every good book has something to say and is written with a particular audience - an ideal reader, in mind.
March 10, 2018
Showing Not Telling in Children's Books
It is a well-known adage that a good story should show what a character is like rather than simply telling the reader.
When writing a picture book for younger children, this is a very important aspect of storytelling because it teaches them that the key to understanding a person's character is in what he/she does.
So what does this mean when we write a kids' story?
Well, first of all, the backstory is important. Rather than describing what happened, which may not engage young readers, who tend to have a short attention span, we can write the character into what others say about him or her. We can then "prove" that what they say is true by showing that the character's current behavior matches up to what others have said about him/her.
Another important part of "showing not telling" in children's books is when we describe a character's actions - how they do things to reveal mood or character.
I believe that we CAN sometimes state simply that a character is happy or sad to help children understand. However, not all the time. Illustrations will help children infer emotion, and guide them to an understanding. Finding out through guided discovery (perhaps with a parent, care-giver or sibling as they point to the pictures) will help children become emotionally literate.
Aristotle famously stated that educating the mind without educating the heart is no education at all. This idea is central to setting the emotional atmosphere around a character.
The important thing is not that someone is happy or sad, but what makes them so. We need to show what motivates a character into action, how they do things, and how the results of the choices and decisions they make affect how the character feels in the end. What is the effect of this character and his /her actions on the other characters in the story?
A good story is never preachy. But there are many ways in which authors can show children the truth about the characters in their story.
Of course, characters are never static. Just as in real life, characters are in process. We can show children how characters progress on their personal journey in our books, and this will instill confidence in children as they grow, meet people, make friendships and relationships and negotiate the challenges and opportunities waiting for them in the real world.
By introducing children to books which are educational and fun, we can provide children with a safe rehearsal for life. By showing them rather than telling them, we teach them how to think for themselves, which fosters their independence, and will help them throughout their lives.
When writing a picture book for younger children, this is a very important aspect of storytelling because it teaches them that the key to understanding a person's character is in what he/she does.
So what does this mean when we write a kids' story?
Well, first of all, the backstory is important. Rather than describing what happened, which may not engage young readers, who tend to have a short attention span, we can write the character into what others say about him or her. We can then "prove" that what they say is true by showing that the character's current behavior matches up to what others have said about him/her.
Another important part of "showing not telling" in children's books is when we describe a character's actions - how they do things to reveal mood or character.
I believe that we CAN sometimes state simply that a character is happy or sad to help children understand. However, not all the time. Illustrations will help children infer emotion, and guide them to an understanding. Finding out through guided discovery (perhaps with a parent, care-giver or sibling as they point to the pictures) will help children become emotionally literate.
Aristotle famously stated that educating the mind without educating the heart is no education at all. This idea is central to setting the emotional atmosphere around a character.
The important thing is not that someone is happy or sad, but what makes them so. We need to show what motivates a character into action, how they do things, and how the results of the choices and decisions they make affect how the character feels in the end. What is the effect of this character and his /her actions on the other characters in the story?
A good story is never preachy. But there are many ways in which authors can show children the truth about the characters in their story.
Of course, characters are never static. Just as in real life, characters are in process. We can show children how characters progress on their personal journey in our books, and this will instill confidence in children as they grow, meet people, make friendships and relationships and negotiate the challenges and opportunities waiting for them in the real world.
By introducing children to books which are educational and fun, we can provide children with a safe rehearsal for life. By showing them rather than telling them, we teach them how to think for themselves, which fosters their independence, and will help them throughout their lives.
March 7, 2018
International Women's Day - What Does This Mean To You?
Today is International Women's Day and I expect many people are looking at how far women have come thanks to women campaigners through the ages and the strides in Art and Science, many of which were made by innovative women, which have shaped the future for women today.
Many people on Goodreads will be reflecting on the role of women writers and activists, who have helped to shape attitudes about gender equality and the relative freedom women have to promote their ideas and fight for opportunities in the Western World. Sadly, there are countries all over the world where women are unfairly discriminated against and subjugated to the will of men.
Of course, the personal is political, and we are a product of nature and nurture. I believe nurture is far more important to "making" a person than so-called inherited traits or pre-dispositions. During socialization we "learn" to be who we are, and we "expect" to become the kind of person caregivers and significant others tell us we are going to be.
This brings me to my personal take on International Women's Day!
The kinds of books children read will "pass on" the attitudes of the author and the messages she or he has for their audience.
If we buy girls frothy, princessy type books with no hint of their ability to do things for themselves or to self-actualize, they will grow up with a passive attitude, maybe even fatalistic take on their future. If we buy boys macho adventure books where girls are in secondary roles and boys are taught to hide their feelings, we are denying boys the freedom to express how they feel, for fear that this is somehow not masculine.
It is my aim to write books which empower girls and boys, and I enjoy writing characters which give BOTH sexes the freedom to be themselves. It is only with this freedom that girls and boys will grow into adults who embrace diversity.
Many people on Goodreads will be reflecting on the role of women writers and activists, who have helped to shape attitudes about gender equality and the relative freedom women have to promote their ideas and fight for opportunities in the Western World. Sadly, there are countries all over the world where women are unfairly discriminated against and subjugated to the will of men.
Of course, the personal is political, and we are a product of nature and nurture. I believe nurture is far more important to "making" a person than so-called inherited traits or pre-dispositions. During socialization we "learn" to be who we are, and we "expect" to become the kind of person caregivers and significant others tell us we are going to be.
This brings me to my personal take on International Women's Day!
The kinds of books children read will "pass on" the attitudes of the author and the messages she or he has for their audience.
If we buy girls frothy, princessy type books with no hint of their ability to do things for themselves or to self-actualize, they will grow up with a passive attitude, maybe even fatalistic take on their future. If we buy boys macho adventure books where girls are in secondary roles and boys are taught to hide their feelings, we are denying boys the freedom to express how they feel, for fear that this is somehow not masculine.
It is my aim to write books which empower girls and boys, and I enjoy writing characters which give BOTH sexes the freedom to be themselves. It is only with this freedom that girls and boys will grow into adults who embrace diversity.
March 2, 2018
MoonWishes Do Come True!
Imagine my delight when I took a look at Aberystwyth's leading magazine - and spotted my newest Children's Picture Book featured in the Books Section for March. Luna seems to be capturing the hearts of people far and wide - including those lovely folk in Aberystwyth where I spent my early childhood, went to school down the lane in Penparcau and spent many idyllic summers. Here is the link to find out more about my book - the result of a magical collaboration with the famous Sheila Graber, known for her drawing of Paddington Bear and now, Luna :
https://t.co/RTHBfEkDLa
https://t.co/RTHBfEkDLa
March 1, 2018
Happy World Book Day
I'd just like to wish everyone a Happy World Book Day! For me, it's a triple celebration because it's St David's Day and International Pigs' Day as well. I'm over the moon! :))
One interesting fact you may not already know about my books are that they were written in three different countries:
Luna The Moon Pig - America.
Snugs The Snow Bear - United Kingdom.
Johari's Window - South Korea.
Quite appropriate for World Book Day!
One interesting fact you may not already know about my books are that they were written in three different countries:
Luna The Moon Pig - America.
Snugs The Snow Bear - United Kingdom.
Johari's Window - South Korea.
Quite appropriate for World Book Day!
February 23, 2018
Gatecrasher
She called a taxi,
so swiftly it came;
took her to London
and into the rain.
She tipped the cab driver,
and into the street
she sashayed through
puddles
in stilettoed feet.
The entrance was
grand,
the receptionist
stared
as into a crowd
this onlooker peered.
A tall gentleman,
named Julian Barnes,
was leaving the hallway -
Bestsellers in arms.
She went through the crowd
with a painted on smile;
an air stewardess
sweeping down aisles.
and searched for a face,
familiar to her,
as a lady, with glasses,
offered a chair.
The party was loud,
the party was quiet -
it went on to quite late
into the wee hours …
Names were suggested,
like nuggets of gold,
in an epic story,
yet to be told.
She was but an ingenue,
uninvited,
a lovelorn heart
that’s unrequited.
And when it was over
she knew that this party
was all about the Literati.
And on this stage, as she trod
the boards
she measured her lines,
and whispered her words.
Copyright Suzy Davies 2018. All Rights Reserved.
so swiftly it came;
took her to London
and into the rain.
She tipped the cab driver,
and into the street
she sashayed through
puddles
in stilettoed feet.
The entrance was
grand,
the receptionist
stared
as into a crowd
this onlooker peered.
A tall gentleman,
named Julian Barnes,
was leaving the hallway -
Bestsellers in arms.
She went through the crowd
with a painted on smile;
an air stewardess
sweeping down aisles.
and searched for a face,
familiar to her,
as a lady, with glasses,
offered a chair.
The party was loud,
the party was quiet -
it went on to quite late
into the wee hours …
Names were suggested,
like nuggets of gold,
in an epic story,
yet to be told.
She was but an ingenue,
uninvited,
a lovelorn heart
that’s unrequited.
And when it was over
she knew that this party
was all about the Literati.
And on this stage, as she trod
the boards
she measured her lines,
and whispered her words.
Copyright Suzy Davies 2018. All Rights Reserved.
February 22, 2018
International Polar Bear Day February 27th!
International Polar Bear Day is a day when we celebrate the endangered polar bear. One of the main reasons we do this is to raise awareness of Climate Change and think about the ways in which we can reduce our carbon footprint.
Perhaps one of the most important things we can do is to involve our young children. They are so receptive to learning new things and can contribute in their own way - by recycling, for example.
My children's book, "Snugs The Snow Bear," is a fairy tale story of a polar bear and his magical animal friends, with a message about Climate Change, Nature and Endangered Species that will endure for generations to come.
Perhaps one of the most important things we can do is to involve our young children. They are so receptive to learning new things and can contribute in their own way - by recycling, for example.
My children's book, "Snugs The Snow Bear," is a fairy tale story of a polar bear and his magical animal friends, with a message about Climate Change, Nature and Endangered Species that will endure for generations to come.
January 21, 2018
My Fairy Tale has A Message.
I have just launched my latest Children's Book, "Luna The Moon Pig" which has raised a lot of curiosity and interest!
A lot of people seem to think it's just a fairy tale and nothing more! Well, you are in for a surprise!
You see, for me, the magic of fiction and stories which are entertaining is that they often have a serious message behind them, and "Luna The Moon Pig" is an example of this.
The most important message in my book is to believe in yourself and follow your heart.
Children who learn this from an early age will be set on the right path to be happy and fulfilled in life and will have the courage to live their dreams!
A lot of people seem to think it's just a fairy tale and nothing more! Well, you are in for a surprise!
You see, for me, the magic of fiction and stories which are entertaining is that they often have a serious message behind them, and "Luna The Moon Pig" is an example of this.
The most important message in my book is to believe in yourself and follow your heart.
Children who learn this from an early age will be set on the right path to be happy and fulfilled in life and will have the courage to live their dreams!
January 10, 2018
A Big Thanks - And A New Appeal!
Just got a very sweet thank you letter from the Children's Home in Florida saying I have made a difference to children's lives. Well, I couldn't have done it without those books you give me to review.
All the authors who donated books are helping abandoned, abused, disadvantaged children, some of whom are orphans. Thanks, so very much!
Please keep the books coming in - I'm looking for paperbacks - Picture Books, Middle-Grade, Young Adult, Clean Biography/Memoir, ANY books with no erotica/violence that are suitable for kids and young adults up to the age of 18.
I will review the books for free, and then gift them to the children's home. Any books you can give me before the end of February are welcomed and will be reviewed for free.
Sunshine Book Review policy is that I reserve the right to decline any books not considered suitable at any stage in the review process and that only reviews of 3 stars or more will be posted. Please message me here if you can help the children and offer a book for an honest, professional review. Should you wish to check my credentials, please take a look at LinkedIn and Goodreads.
All the authors who donated books are helping abandoned, abused, disadvantaged children, some of whom are orphans. Thanks, so very much!
Please keep the books coming in - I'm looking for paperbacks - Picture Books, Middle-Grade, Young Adult, Clean Biography/Memoir, ANY books with no erotica/violence that are suitable for kids and young adults up to the age of 18.
I will review the books for free, and then gift them to the children's home. Any books you can give me before the end of February are welcomed and will be reviewed for free.
Sunshine Book Review policy is that I reserve the right to decline any books not considered suitable at any stage in the review process and that only reviews of 3 stars or more will be posted. Please message me here if you can help the children and offer a book for an honest, professional review. Should you wish to check my credentials, please take a look at LinkedIn and Goodreads.
Book News
"The Flamingos Who Painted The Sky," our new picture book is NOW fully available to bring in #Christmas #sunshine, #flamingo #sunsets, and #happiness #worldwide Illustrated by the talented Shirin Mass ...more
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