Shannon Messenger's Blog, page 30
October 1, 2013
EXILE Launch Day Celebration!!!!!!!!!!!
It's here! It's here! After a year of ever-so-patiently (and fine, sometimes quite impatiently waiting, on my part, anyway) EXILE finally launches into the world today. I can't believe it's finally here!!!!
It's one of the hardest books I've ever written--and one I'm especially proud of. So I hope you all love it as much as I do. I AM SO EXCITED TO HAVE YOU READ.
Which is why I've also put together a very special giveaway, to thank you all for the love, support, and enthusiasm you've shown for the KEEPER series this last year. Those of you who follow me on Facebook or Twitter have probably seen me post pictures of the prizes, but in case you missed it, here's what's up for grabs:
What you're looking at are hardcovers of both KEEPER and EXILE, drawn on in silver sharpie by me. Each one is done by hand, so they're all slightly different from each other--but the essence of the drawings is what you're seeing above. And I'm giving away three sets of them (meaning three people will win both a sharpied-up KEEPER and EXILE--along with their regular shiny dust jackets).
Since this is a rather time consuming prize (I'm not nearly as fast of an artist as I'd like to be) I'm going to make you guys put in a *little* more work than my usual, "leave a comment to enter" kind of contest, because I want to make sure the prize goes to someone who really wants it. But I've still done my best to also keep it as simple as possible. So here's the details.
To enter, you MUST complete these two simple steps.
STEP NUMBER ONE: You must either:Tweet/Facebook/Tumblr/Instagram/Pinterest/Blog/ATTACK THE INTERNETS with a picture of EXILE somewhere in the wild (could be your own personal copy in your hands, or a shiny copy on display in a store or library--doesn't matter to me. And if the store you go to is sold out, you can always request they bring in another copy. In fact, I would love you FOREVER for doing that!)Tweet/Facebook/Tumblr/Instagram/Pinterest/Blog/ATTACK THE INTERNETS with some sort of KEEPER/EXILE fan art you've created. (Anything goes here--feel free to be as creative as you want)
You only have to do one--though you are welcome to do both (or to post your picture in more than one place.) I'll even reward you with an extra entry for every picture you post--you'll just need to tell me what you've done so I can count your entries accordingly. Which brings me to:
STEP NUMBER TWO: Fill out the form at the bottom of this post, along with links to anywhere you posted the pictures. Form must be filled out by 11:59 pm pacific on October 15th, 2013.
Step two is an absolutely essential step, because it's the only way I will see your entry. So don't forget to fill out the form. And yes, I'm requiring a link instead of going on the honor system this time, and for those wondering why, it's because I'm a nerd. Nothing makes me happier than seeing my book babies in the world or seeing the amazing things you guys create, so I want to make sure I see every single one. Rest assured, I will geek out about each and every one of them.
International entries ARE accepted. And I'm pretty sure that's everything, but if I missed something you are welcome to ask in the comments. I'll do my best to reply as soon as possible--though I'm on tour right now, so there may be a slight delay.
And speaking of tour, if you live in the midwest, make sure you check my EVENTS page. I have all kinds of awesome events this month and I would love to meet some of you!!!!
Okay, here's the form! And if you can't access it for some reason, click HERE.
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It's one of the hardest books I've ever written--and one I'm especially proud of. So I hope you all love it as much as I do. I AM SO EXCITED TO HAVE YOU READ.
Which is why I've also put together a very special giveaway, to thank you all for the love, support, and enthusiasm you've shown for the KEEPER series this last year. Those of you who follow me on Facebook or Twitter have probably seen me post pictures of the prizes, but in case you missed it, here's what's up for grabs:
What you're looking at are hardcovers of both KEEPER and EXILE, drawn on in silver sharpie by me. Each one is done by hand, so they're all slightly different from each other--but the essence of the drawings is what you're seeing above. And I'm giving away three sets of them (meaning three people will win both a sharpied-up KEEPER and EXILE--along with their regular shiny dust jackets).
Since this is a rather time consuming prize (I'm not nearly as fast of an artist as I'd like to be) I'm going to make you guys put in a *little* more work than my usual, "leave a comment to enter" kind of contest, because I want to make sure the prize goes to someone who really wants it. But I've still done my best to also keep it as simple as possible. So here's the details.
To enter, you MUST complete these two simple steps.
STEP NUMBER ONE: You must either:Tweet/Facebook/Tumblr/Instagram/Pinterest/Blog/ATTACK THE INTERNETS with a picture of EXILE somewhere in the wild (could be your own personal copy in your hands, or a shiny copy on display in a store or library--doesn't matter to me. And if the store you go to is sold out, you can always request they bring in another copy. In fact, I would love you FOREVER for doing that!)Tweet/Facebook/Tumblr/Instagram/Pinterest/Blog/ATTACK THE INTERNETS with some sort of KEEPER/EXILE fan art you've created. (Anything goes here--feel free to be as creative as you want)
You only have to do one--though you are welcome to do both (or to post your picture in more than one place.) I'll even reward you with an extra entry for every picture you post--you'll just need to tell me what you've done so I can count your entries accordingly. Which brings me to:
STEP NUMBER TWO: Fill out the form at the bottom of this post, along with links to anywhere you posted the pictures. Form must be filled out by 11:59 pm pacific on October 15th, 2013.
Step two is an absolutely essential step, because it's the only way I will see your entry. So don't forget to fill out the form. And yes, I'm requiring a link instead of going on the honor system this time, and for those wondering why, it's because I'm a nerd. Nothing makes me happier than seeing my book babies in the world or seeing the amazing things you guys create, so I want to make sure I see every single one. Rest assured, I will geek out about each and every one of them.
International entries ARE accepted. And I'm pretty sure that's everything, but if I missed something you are welcome to ask in the comments. I'll do my best to reply as soon as possible--though I'm on tour right now, so there may be a slight delay.
And speaking of tour, if you live in the midwest, make sure you check my EVENTS page. I have all kinds of awesome events this month and I would love to meet some of you!!!!
Okay, here's the form! And if you can't access it for some reason, click HERE.
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September 30, 2013
MMGM Links (9/30/13)
One day, guys.
ONE.
DAY.
UNTIL EXILE RELEASES!!!!
I am so excited--and I can't believe it's almost here--or that I'm already on tour--or that I'm still in the deadline cave! (yes, things are SUPER HECTIC right now).
So clearly I have no MMGM. But I do have links.
But first--a few reminders. Today is the LAST day to claim your swag in my pre-order giveaway. If you pre-ordered EXILE and you haven't filled out THIS FORM, you better get on that by midnight tonight. Also, if you live in the midwest and want to come hang out with me, click HERE for all the dates/times/places you can find me.
Also, make sure you check back tomorrow because I have a VERY AWESOME contest starting and you won't want to miss out.
Okay, I think that covers all the shamelessly self promotional updates--on to the links!*
If you would like to join in the MMGM fun, all you have to do is blog about a middle grade book you love (contests, author interviews and whatnot also count--but are most definitely not required) and email me the title of the book you're featuring and a link to your blog at SWMessenger (at) hotmail (dot) com. (Make sure you put MMGM or Marvelous Middle Grade Monday in the subject line so I see it)
NOTE: I used to not have a cut-off time for adding links to the post, but with how insane my schedule is right now, if you don't email me by Sunday evening (usually around 11pm PST is when I put the links together) I can't guarantee I'll have a chance to add you. BUT, you are welcome to add your link in the comments on this post so people can find you!
*Please note: these posts are not a reflection of my own opinions on the books featured. Each blogger is responsible for their own MMGM content and I do not pre-screen posts ahead of time, nor do I control what books they choose. I simply assemble the list based on the links that are emailed to me ahead of time
ONE.
DAY.
UNTIL EXILE RELEASES!!!!
I am so excited--and I can't believe it's almost here--or that I'm already on tour--or that I'm still in the deadline cave! (yes, things are SUPER HECTIC right now).
So clearly I have no MMGM. But I do have links.
But first--a few reminders. Today is the LAST day to claim your swag in my pre-order giveaway. If you pre-ordered EXILE and you haven't filled out THIS FORM, you better get on that by midnight tonight. Also, if you live in the midwest and want to come hang out with me, click HERE for all the dates/times/places you can find me.
Also, make sure you check back tomorrow because I have a VERY AWESOME contest starting and you won't want to miss out.
Okay, I think that covers all the shamelessly self promotional updates--on to the links!*
- Birdie Reader joins the MMGM fun with a feature on THE GOLDEN COMPASS. Click HERE to welcome them to the group!
- Michael Gettel-Gilmarten is haunted by DOLL BONES. Click HERE to see what he thought.
- Susan Olson is talking about ODESSA, AGAIN. Click HERE to see her review
- Greg Pattridge is showcasing BECAUSE OF WINN DIXIE. Click HERE to see what he thought.
- Rosi Hollinbeck is cheering for MISTER MAX: THE BOOK OF LOST THINGS--with a GIVEAWAY! Click HERE for details.
- 9-year-old Lucy has chills for MY SISTER THE VAMPIRE. Click HERE to see what she thought.
- Fleur Bradley is rooting for ESCAPE FROM MR. LIMONCELLO'S LIBRARY. Click HERE to see why.
- Andrea Mack is delighted with MONEY HUNGRY. Click HERE to see why.
- Jennifer Rumberger is feeling THREE TIMES LUCKY. Click HERE to read her feature.
- Sheri Larsen is highlighting EVERTASTER: THE BUTTERSMITHS' GOLD. Click HERE for her review.
- Maria Selke is the first stop on THE REAL BOY blog tour. Click HERE for all the fun.
- Sue Heavenrich is the first stop on the DARLING, MERCY DOG OF WW1 blog tour. Click HERE to learn more.
- Dorine White discovers GUYS READ OTHER WORLDS . Click HERE to see what she thought.
- Laurisa White Reyes has fond memories of REMEMBER DIPPY. Click HERE for her review.
- Media Sharif is dramatically in love with DRAMA. Click HERE to read her feature.
- Michelle Isenhoff is championing the FABLEHAVEN series. Click HERE to see why.
- Karen Yingling also always has some awesome MMGM recommendations for you. Click HERE to which ones she picked this time!
- Pam Torres always has an MMGM up on her blog. Click HERE to see what she's spotlighting this week.
- Deb Marshall is a MMGM regular. Click HERE to see what she's featuring this week.
- Joanne Fritz always has an MMGM for you. Click HERE to see what she's talking about this week.
- The Mundie Moms are always part of the MMGM fun (YAY!). Click HERE to see their newest recommendations. And if you aren't also following their Mundie Kids site, get thee over THERE and check out all the awesome!
- The lovely Shannon O'Donnell always has an MMGM ready for you! Click HERE to see what she's featuring this week.
If you would like to join in the MMGM fun, all you have to do is blog about a middle grade book you love (contests, author interviews and whatnot also count--but are most definitely not required) and email me the title of the book you're featuring and a link to your blog at SWMessenger (at) hotmail (dot) com. (Make sure you put MMGM or Marvelous Middle Grade Monday in the subject line so I see it)
NOTE: I used to not have a cut-off time for adding links to the post, but with how insane my schedule is right now, if you don't email me by Sunday evening (usually around 11pm PST is when I put the links together) I can't guarantee I'll have a chance to add you. BUT, you are welcome to add your link in the comments on this post so people can find you!
*Please note: these posts are not a reflection of my own opinions on the books featured. Each blogger is responsible for their own MMGM content and I do not pre-screen posts ahead of time, nor do I control what books they choose. I simply assemble the list based on the links that are emailed to me ahead of time
September 24, 2013
On Sequels
Any of you who witnessed the pathetic amount of whining I did last year know that writing sequels is ... rather hard. (okay, fine, if you follow me on Twitter you've seen me back to whining again)
I'm sure there are a few lucky authors who breeze right through them, but most of the authors I know STRUGGLE. Especially with book 2s. But honestly, I'm working on a book 3 right now and it's fighting me every step of the way. And I think I've finally figured out WHY.
I've already done some musing on this subject in a post I wrote last year, after I'd survived my first "book 2." And at the time I wrote that post, I thought I knew what had made that process so difficult. But while all of those things definitely ARE a big part of the challenge, as I've continued to write sequels I've realized that I'd only begun to understand what made the process so excruciating. It wasn't until my husband made me watch a sequel to a movie that I'd been specifically resisting--without really knowing why--that I FINALLY figured it out.
Here's the thing:
For the most part, at the end of a book, the characters are in a "good" place. Things aren't perfect--and obviously there's more story to tell. But unless it's by one of those evil authors who ends on a ginormous cliffhanger with no sense of closure at all, the characters and the world have all ended at a point where readers can be mostly satisfied to let it rest--for a while, at least.
And then ... everything falls apart again in the sequel.
THAT'S why I'd been resisting seeing that particular movie. I didn't *want* to watch everything get ruined again. Especially since I had very specific FEARS and HOPES and EXPECTATIONS based on what I already knew of the story. And honestly, I feel the same way when I read most sequels. There's always that moment of, NOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOO!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!! when everything falls apart, and I have to fight the urge to skip to the last pages to see if things are going to work out okay. And sure, you can have that feeling with a "book 1" as well, but I personally think it's especially painful when it's characters you're already attached to and have already gone on a journey with.
And yet, the bad things *have* to happen in the next books, otherwise the story is going to be really boring--plus problems always get worse before they get better. So really, what you need to do as an author when you write a sequel is work extra hard to establish TRUST between you and your readers. You have to find a way to assure them that even though you're going to break their hearts in certain ways, it's still worth going along for the ride. And that is NOT an easy thing to do.
I know this is the point where you're probably hoping I'll give you some sort of magical formula that will make it sequel writing easy. Sadly, I'm not sure that exists. But I can tell you what *I* finally decided to do, and it has helped me a little.
I've read a LOT of sequels lately (writing is reading, after all) and I've noticed a pattern in the ones I thought were done best. They all had these moments in the plot where I started to think, "Noooooooo, PLEASE tell me the author isn't going to do THAT!!!"And then... the author DIDN'T do it. The love triangle I was fearing. The brutal death I'd been praying wouldn't happen. Whatever my WORST fears were did get hinted at enough to make me start to worry that the story was heading that way. And then, the author went a totally different way. An equally brutal way at most times--but somehow it felt less painful because it was a surprise.
I think that technique is effective for three reasons:
It's NOT an easy thing to do and it hurts my brain a lot (like, a LOT, lot) but I get SUPER gleeful when I get messages from my beta readers saying things like, "If thing X happens I am NEVER SPEAKING TO YOU AGAIN!!!!!!!!!!!!" followed a bit later by, "Oh, good, we can still be friends--BUT WAIT, WHAT DO YOU MEAN THEY HAVE TO DEAL WITH THING Y???????" so hopefully that means I pulled it off. I guess I won't know for sure until my sequels are out there in the wild (which in EXILE's case is only one week away now--holy cow, how did that happen???).
But I thought I'd throw this info out there anyway, in case it's helpful to any of you. If nothing else, maybe it'll explain why you see me whining about sequels so very very much, and why I disappear down the drafting rabbit hole and struggle so much as I fight my way back out. And why I eat so many cupcakes. That's the best writing advice of all. EAT MORE CUPCAKES.
*places an emergency cupcake order and goes back to drafting KEEPER 3*
I'm sure there are a few lucky authors who breeze right through them, but most of the authors I know STRUGGLE. Especially with book 2s. But honestly, I'm working on a book 3 right now and it's fighting me every step of the way. And I think I've finally figured out WHY.
I've already done some musing on this subject in a post I wrote last year, after I'd survived my first "book 2." And at the time I wrote that post, I thought I knew what had made that process so difficult. But while all of those things definitely ARE a big part of the challenge, as I've continued to write sequels I've realized that I'd only begun to understand what made the process so excruciating. It wasn't until my husband made me watch a sequel to a movie that I'd been specifically resisting--without really knowing why--that I FINALLY figured it out.
Here's the thing:
For the most part, at the end of a book, the characters are in a "good" place. Things aren't perfect--and obviously there's more story to tell. But unless it's by one of those evil authors who ends on a ginormous cliffhanger with no sense of closure at all, the characters and the world have all ended at a point where readers can be mostly satisfied to let it rest--for a while, at least.
And then ... everything falls apart again in the sequel.
THAT'S why I'd been resisting seeing that particular movie. I didn't *want* to watch everything get ruined again. Especially since I had very specific FEARS and HOPES and EXPECTATIONS based on what I already knew of the story. And honestly, I feel the same way when I read most sequels. There's always that moment of, NOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOO!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!! when everything falls apart, and I have to fight the urge to skip to the last pages to see if things are going to work out okay. And sure, you can have that feeling with a "book 1" as well, but I personally think it's especially painful when it's characters you're already attached to and have already gone on a journey with.
And yet, the bad things *have* to happen in the next books, otherwise the story is going to be really boring--plus problems always get worse before they get better. So really, what you need to do as an author when you write a sequel is work extra hard to establish TRUST between you and your readers. You have to find a way to assure them that even though you're going to break their hearts in certain ways, it's still worth going along for the ride. And that is NOT an easy thing to do.
I know this is the point where you're probably hoping I'll give you some sort of magical formula that will make it sequel writing easy. Sadly, I'm not sure that exists. But I can tell you what *I* finally decided to do, and it has helped me a little.
I've read a LOT of sequels lately (writing is reading, after all) and I've noticed a pattern in the ones I thought were done best. They all had these moments in the plot where I started to think, "Noooooooo, PLEASE tell me the author isn't going to do THAT!!!"And then... the author DIDN'T do it. The love triangle I was fearing. The brutal death I'd been praying wouldn't happen. Whatever my WORST fears were did get hinted at enough to make me start to worry that the story was heading that way. And then, the author went a totally different way. An equally brutal way at most times--but somehow it felt less painful because it was a surprise.
I think that technique is effective for three reasons:
1) Playing upon reader expectations is a surefire way to build killer tension
2) When you go a completely different way, it keeps the reader guessing and keeps the plot fresh and unpredictable
3) When you *don't* do what the reader is fearing, it helps them to TRUST you, and stick around when you put them through all the horrible evil things they never saw coming (have I mentioned writers are evil?)So THAT has become my goal when I build the plots for my sequels. I try and figure out what I think readers are going to fear most as I go into the story (which isn't that hard to do. Usually it's all the same things I fear) and then I try to shape the plot in a way that makes them wonder if I'm going to go that way. And right when it's starting to look like, "oh noes--SHE IS!" I go a different route instead.
It's NOT an easy thing to do and it hurts my brain a lot (like, a LOT, lot) but I get SUPER gleeful when I get messages from my beta readers saying things like, "If thing X happens I am NEVER SPEAKING TO YOU AGAIN!!!!!!!!!!!!" followed a bit later by, "Oh, good, we can still be friends--BUT WAIT, WHAT DO YOU MEAN THEY HAVE TO DEAL WITH THING Y???????" so hopefully that means I pulled it off. I guess I won't know for sure until my sequels are out there in the wild (which in EXILE's case is only one week away now--holy cow, how did that happen???).
But I thought I'd throw this info out there anyway, in case it's helpful to any of you. If nothing else, maybe it'll explain why you see me whining about sequels so very very much, and why I disappear down the drafting rabbit hole and struggle so much as I fight my way back out. And why I eat so many cupcakes. That's the best writing advice of all. EAT MORE CUPCAKES.
*places an emergency cupcake order and goes back to drafting KEEPER 3*
September 23, 2013
MMGM Links (10/23/13)
One week till EXILE's release, and I leave for tour in a few days, so things are a TAD too crazy to put together an MMGM. But here are the links.
And remember, you can find my EXILE tour dates--and a swag giveaway with 100 winners--by clicking HERE.
Okay--on to the links!*
- Rosi Hollinbeck is spreading some love for... *MEEP*...EXILE--with A GIVEAWAY!!! Click HERE to see what she thought.
- Hannah Martian joins the MMGM fun with a feature on UNITED WE SPY. Click HERE to see her review.
- Michael Gettel-Gilmarten sees nothing rotten about MY ROTTEN LIFE. Click HERE to see what he thought.
- Jennifer Rumberger is cheering for ELLIE MCDOODLE: HAVE PEN, WILL TRAVEL Click HERE to learn more about it.
- Susan Olson has chills for THE RETURN OF THE INDIAN. Click HERE to see her review
- Kimberly Griffiths Little has the cover reveal for author Amie Borst's new book. Click HERE to see the shiny.
- Greg Pattridge has chills for DEAD END. Click HERE to see what he thought.
- Mark Baker is highlighting MRS. PIGGLE WIGGLE. Click HERE to see what he thought.
- Dorine White has a $50 book blast for The Emerald Ring. Click HERE for all the details.
- Media Sharif is rooting for ANASTASIA KRUPNIK. Click HERE to read her feature.
- Fleur Bradley is championing TREASURE HUNTERS. Click HERE to see why.
- Michelle Mason is sweet on THE SINISTER SWEETNESS OF SPLENDID ACADEMY. Click HERE to see why.
- Karen Yingling also always has some awesome MMGM recommendations for you. Click HERE to which ones she picked this time!
- Pam Torres always has an MMGM up on her blog. Click HERE to see what she's spotlighting this week.
- Deb Marshall is a MMGM regular. Click HERE to see what she's featuring this week.
- Joanne Fritz always has an MMGM for you. Click HERE to see what she's talking about this week.
- The Mundie Moms are always part of the MMGM fun (YAY!). Click HERE to see their newest recommendations. And if you aren't also following their Mundie Kids site, get thee over THERE and check out all the awesome!
- The lovely Shannon O'Donnell always has an MMGM ready for you! Click HERE to see what she's featuring this week.
If you would like to join in the MMGM fun, all you have to do is blog about a middle grade book you love (contests, author interviews and whatnot also count--but are most definitely not required) and email me the title of the book you're featuring and a link to your blog at SWMessenger (at) hotmail (dot) com. (Make sure you put MMGM or Marvelous Middle Grade Monday in the subject line so I see it)
NOTE: I used to not have a cut-off time for adding links to the post, but with how insane my schedule is right now, if you don't email me by Sunday evening (usually around 11pm PST is when I put the links together) I can't guarantee I'll have a chance to add you. BUT, you are welcome to add your link in the comments on this post so people can find you!
*Please note: these posts are not a reflection of my own opinions on the books featured. Each blogger is responsible for their own MMGM content and I do not pre-screen posts ahead of time, nor do I control what books they choose. I simply assemble the list based on the links that are emailed to me ahead of time
September 18, 2013
LET THE SKY FALL is only $1.99
Since this post is totally shameless and self-promoting I'll make it quick.
LET THE SKY FALL is the Kindle "Teen Daily Deal," which means that for today only you can snatch it up for only $1.99. That's cheaper than a cupcake, guys. HOW COOL IS THAT???
Even better? If you nab the eBook for that price, you can also get the audiobook for an additional $1.99, and I'm telling you, the actors who performed the roles did SUCH an amazing job. They perfectly brought Vane and Audra to life.
If you'd like to take advantage of the deal, you can do so HERE.
And now, I disappear back to the drafting cave!
LET THE SKY FALL is the Kindle "Teen Daily Deal," which means that for today only you can snatch it up for only $1.99. That's cheaper than a cupcake, guys. HOW COOL IS THAT???
Even better? If you nab the eBook for that price, you can also get the audiobook for an additional $1.99, and I'm telling you, the actors who performed the roles did SUCH an amazing job. They perfectly brought Vane and Audra to life.
If you'd like to take advantage of the deal, you can do so HERE.
And now, I disappear back to the drafting cave!
September 17, 2013
Two Week EXILE Teaser!!!
Wow--I can't believe we're only TWO WEEKS away from the release of EXILE. Seriously, WHERE HAS THE LAST YEAR GONE????
ahem.
Shannon-panicking aside, I am SO SUPER EXCITED to finally have this book make its way into the wild. I know how many of you have been ever-so-patiently waiting for it, and I really hope it meets all your awesome expectations (*bites nails*). And to reward you for your excitement, I have a special prize to share with you today:
*herald trumpets sound*
The lovely people at S&S have posted the first two chapters of EXILE online!!!!!!!!
You get to meet Silveny in them--that amazingly beautiful alicorn pictured on the cover. And Dex is there too. And Grady. AND DID I MENTION THE SPARKLY WINGED ALICORN???
If you would like to read, you can do so by clicking HERE. Hope you enjoy!
TWO MORE WEEKS!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!
ahem.
Shannon-panicking aside, I am SO SUPER EXCITED to finally have this book make its way into the wild. I know how many of you have been ever-so-patiently waiting for it, and I really hope it meets all your awesome expectations (*bites nails*). And to reward you for your excitement, I have a special prize to share with you today:
*herald trumpets sound*
The lovely people at S&S have posted the first two chapters of EXILE online!!!!!!!!
You get to meet Silveny in them--that amazingly beautiful alicorn pictured on the cover. And Dex is there too. And Grady. AND DID I MENTION THE SPARKLY WINGED ALICORN???
If you would like to read, you can do so by clicking HERE. Hope you enjoy!
TWO MORE WEEKS!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!
September 16, 2013
MMGM Links (9/16/13)
Once again, I have no MMGM. But I do have the links! And if you missed it last week, I posted my EXILE tour dates--and a swag giveaway with 100 winners! You can find all the details HERE.
Okay--on to the links!*
- Greg Pattridge joins the MMGM with a feature on IDA B. Click HERE to welcome him to the group.
- Mark Baker is cheering for NERDS 5: ATTACK OF THE BULLIES. Click HERE to see what he thought.
- Michael Gettel-Gilmarten is championing PENELOPE CRUMB. Click HERE to see what he thought.
- Kim Aippersbach is cuddling up with MOUSE BIRD SNAKE WOLF. Click HERE to see her review.
- 11-year old Xander is back, sharing his thoughts on UNWANTEDS 3: ISLAND OF FIRE. Click HERE to see what he thought.
- Susan Olson has 10 TITANIC TIME TRAVEL TALES FOR KIDS: A LIST. Click HERE to see what that's all about.
- Barbara Watson has chills for THE GIRL FROM FELONY BAY. Click HERE to see her review.
- Pam Torres always has an MMGM up on her blog. Click HERE to see what she's spotlighting this week.
- Deb Marshall is a MMGM regular. Click HERE to see what she's featuring this week.
- Joanne Fritz always has an MMGM for you. Click HERE to see what she's talking about this week.
- The Mundie Moms are always part of the MMGM fun (YAY!). Click HERE to see their newest recommendations. And if you aren't also following their Mundie Kids site, get thee over THERE and check out all the awesome!
- The lovely Shannon O'Donnell always has an MMGM ready for you! Click HERE to see what she's featuring this week!
- Karen Yingling also always has some awesome MMGM recommendations for you. Click HERE to which ones she picked this time!
If you would like to join in the MMGM fun, all you have to do is blog about a middle grade book you love (contests, author interviews and whatnot also count--but are most definitely not required) and email me the title of the book you're featuring and a link to your blog at SWMessenger (at) hotmail (dot) com. (Make sure you put MMGM or Marvelous Middle Grade Monday in the subject line so I see it)
NOTE: I used to not have a cut-off time for adding links to the post, but with how insane my schedule is right now, if you don't email me by Sunday evening (usually around 11pm PST is when I put the links together) I can't guarantee I'll have a chance to add you. BUT, you are welcome to add your link in the comments on this post so people can find you!
*Please note: these posts are not a reflection of my own opinions on the books featured. Each blogger is responsible for their own MMGM content and I do not pre-screen posts ahead of time, nor do I control what books they choose. I simply assemble the list based on the links that are emailed to me ahead of time
September 11, 2013
Tour Dates Announced--AND A PRE-ORDER GIVEAWAY!!!
In case you haven't checked my EVENTS PAGE, I've finally updated it with my fall tour dates!!!! Here's the main stops:
September 28th, 29th 8:00am-4:00pmAnderson's Young Adult Literature ConferenceHotel Arista 2139 City Gate LaneNaperville, IL 60563For info on pricing, and all the event details, see the event listing HERE.
October 1st Time still TBD Literati Bookstore 124 E. Washington St.Ann Arbor, Michigan 48104
October 4th 7:00 pm Watermark Books & Cafe 4701 East DouglasWichita, Kansas 67218
October 9th 7:00 pm Addendum Books 165 Western Ave N #14St. Paul, MN 55102*with Margaret Peterson Haddix*
October 10th 6:30 pm Oak Creek Public Library 8620 S Howell Ave, Oak Creek, WI 53154*with Margaret Peterson Haddix*
October 19th Less Than Three Conference Spencer Road Branch Library427 Spencer Rd.St. Peters, MO 63376For info on tickets/travel, visit the website HERE.
October 22nd 7:00pm St. Louis Public Library (Central Branch)1301 Olive St.Saint Louis, Missouri 63103*With Michael Buckley*
October 24th 7:00 pm Mysterious Galaxy, San Diego7051 Clairemont Mesa Blvd San Diego, CA 92111
Yeah.... I can't believe how many AWESOME PLACES I get to go (and how many AMAZING authors I get to do events with), either. I AM SO EXCITED!!!!!!!!!
But I've noticed that whenever I post a list of events, the first responses are always from people in places I'm not going to see, wishing their city were on the list.
Sadly, I haven't mastered that teleporting thing, so I'm not able to get everywhere I'd like to go. But I've tried to come up with a solution that will hopefully help make it up to those of you I won't be visiting. And so, I give you: THE EXILE PRE-ORDER GIVEAWAY!!!!!!!
The first 100 people who pre-order EXILE and fill out the form at the end of this post will get this:
1 limited edition EXILE "Alicorn X-ing" sticker 1 *signed* EXILE Bookplate (which can be personalized with your name)
I'm not requiring proof of purchase to enter--though I AM hoping you'll do the right thing and be honest. And I'm willing to mail the prizes anywhere--even internationally. All you have to do is pre-order the book and be one of the first 100 people to fill out the form at the end of this post (I will close entries on October 1st, regardless of whether I've reached 100). And if you already pre-ordered before you found out about this contest, that totally still counts. It doesn't matter when you ordered it, just that you did. Also: there's no limit on how many times you can win. If you buy five books and fill out the form five times and you're in that first 100, then you get 5 prizes (also, you're awesome! I like you a LOT)
I *think* that covers everything--but if I missed something, feel free to ask any questions you may have in the comments.
And I just want to end with my deepest and sincerest thanks for all your enthusiasm and support for EXILE (and all my books, really). I can't believe there's less than three weeks until release, and I am SO EXCITED to have you guys read. I hope you love it as much as I do. And I hope to someday meet each and every one of you so I can thank you in person for all you do. You rock! ((group hug))
Okay, here's the form (or if it doesn't load for some reason, you can access it by clicking HERE):
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September 28th, 29th 8:00am-4:00pmAnderson's Young Adult Literature ConferenceHotel Arista 2139 City Gate LaneNaperville, IL 60563For info on pricing, and all the event details, see the event listing HERE.
October 1st Time still TBD Literati Bookstore 124 E. Washington St.Ann Arbor, Michigan 48104
October 4th 7:00 pm Watermark Books & Cafe 4701 East DouglasWichita, Kansas 67218
October 9th 7:00 pm Addendum Books 165 Western Ave N #14St. Paul, MN 55102*with Margaret Peterson Haddix*
October 10th 6:30 pm Oak Creek Public Library 8620 S Howell Ave, Oak Creek, WI 53154*with Margaret Peterson Haddix*
October 19th Less Than Three Conference Spencer Road Branch Library427 Spencer Rd.St. Peters, MO 63376For info on tickets/travel, visit the website HERE.
October 22nd 7:00pm St. Louis Public Library (Central Branch)1301 Olive St.Saint Louis, Missouri 63103*With Michael Buckley*
October 24th 7:00 pm Mysterious Galaxy, San Diego7051 Clairemont Mesa Blvd San Diego, CA 92111
Yeah.... I can't believe how many AWESOME PLACES I get to go (and how many AMAZING authors I get to do events with), either. I AM SO EXCITED!!!!!!!!!
But I've noticed that whenever I post a list of events, the first responses are always from people in places I'm not going to see, wishing their city were on the list.
Sadly, I haven't mastered that teleporting thing, so I'm not able to get everywhere I'd like to go. But I've tried to come up with a solution that will hopefully help make it up to those of you I won't be visiting. And so, I give you: THE EXILE PRE-ORDER GIVEAWAY!!!!!!!
The first 100 people who pre-order EXILE and fill out the form at the end of this post will get this:
1 limited edition EXILE "Alicorn X-ing" sticker 1 *signed* EXILE Bookplate (which can be personalized with your name)
I'm not requiring proof of purchase to enter--though I AM hoping you'll do the right thing and be honest. And I'm willing to mail the prizes anywhere--even internationally. All you have to do is pre-order the book and be one of the first 100 people to fill out the form at the end of this post (I will close entries on October 1st, regardless of whether I've reached 100). And if you already pre-ordered before you found out about this contest, that totally still counts. It doesn't matter when you ordered it, just that you did. Also: there's no limit on how many times you can win. If you buy five books and fill out the form five times and you're in that first 100, then you get 5 prizes (also, you're awesome! I like you a LOT)
I *think* that covers everything--but if I missed something, feel free to ask any questions you may have in the comments.
And I just want to end with my deepest and sincerest thanks for all your enthusiasm and support for EXILE (and all my books, really). I can't believe there's less than three weeks until release, and I am SO EXCITED to have you guys read. I hope you love it as much as I do. And I hope to someday meet each and every one of you so I can thank you in person for all you do. You rock! ((group hug))
Okay, here's the form (or if it doesn't load for some reason, you can access it by clicking HERE):
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September 10, 2013
The STORM is coming!
You may have already noticed that there's been a *slight* change to the title of LtSB, but in case you missed it (or were wondering if you were going crazy) I thought I'd post about it over here.
Sadly, no, the title is NOT changing to LET THE HABOOBS BREAK--BIGGER, FASTER, HABOOBIER!! (though that would be awesome...) It's actually only a single letter different, just to make it match better with the title of LET THE SKY FALL.
So here's the final official title with the final official cover:
And now we'll enter the especially hilarious time period where we get to see just how long it takes my deadline-broken brain to remember to say "Storm" instead of "Storms." Plan on a LOT of Shannonfails. ;)
If you haven't already, you can add it to your goodreads shelves HERE
It's also available for pre-order! (Crazy, right?) So if you're desperate to find out what happens to Vane and Audra--and to finally understand why I keep making haboob jokes--I made you some handy links:
AmazonBarnes & Noble
And now... back to the deadline cave!
Sadly, no, the title is NOT changing to LET THE HABOOBS BREAK--BIGGER, FASTER, HABOOBIER!! (though that would be awesome...) It's actually only a single letter different, just to make it match better with the title of LET THE SKY FALL.
So here's the final official title with the final official cover:
And now we'll enter the especially hilarious time period where we get to see just how long it takes my deadline-broken brain to remember to say "Storm" instead of "Storms." Plan on a LOT of Shannonfails. ;)
If you haven't already, you can add it to your goodreads shelves HERE
It's also available for pre-order! (Crazy, right?) So if you're desperate to find out what happens to Vane and Audra--and to finally understand why I keep making haboob jokes--I made you some handy links:
AmazonBarnes & Noble
And now... back to the deadline cave!
September 9, 2013
MMGM Links (9/9/13)
Alas, thanks to deadlines and the upcoming release of EXILE I am *way* too slammed to put together an MMGM. But I do have the links!
- Wendy McDonald is sinking her teeth into CHOMP. Click HERE to see what she thought.
- Natalie Aguirre is interviewing author Caroline Carlson and giving away a copy of MAGIC MARKS THE SPOT. Click HERE for details.
- Dorine White cheering for THE SCHOOL OF GOOD AND EVIL. Click HERE for her review.
- Rosi Hollinbeck has a double giveaway this week: WHISTLE IN THE DARK and HUNTER MORAN HANGS OUT. Click HERE for all the fun.
- Natalie Lorenzi is smitten with THE ACCIDENTAL TIME TRAVELER. Click HERE to see why.
- Janet Smart is sweet on MELONHEAD. Click HERE to see her review.
- Mark Baker is caught up in DEADWEATHER AND SUNRISE. Click HERE to see what he thought.
- Medeia Sharif is spreading some love for ANASTASIA AGAIN. Click HERE to see her review.
- Susan Olson is heading BACK TO THE TITANIC. Click HERE to see what she thought.
- Pam Torres always has an MMGM up on her blog. Click HERE to see what she's spotlighting this week.
- Deb Marshall is a MMGM regular. Click HERE to see what she's featuring this week.
- Joanne Fritz always has an MMGM for you. Click HERE to see what she's talking about this week.
- The Mundie Moms are always part of the MMGM fun (YAY!). Click HERE to see their newest recommendations. And if you aren't also following their Mundie Kids site, get thee over THERE and check out all the awesome!
- The lovely Shannon O'Donnell always has an MMGM ready for you! Click HERE to see what she's featuring this week!
- Karen Yingling also always has some awesome MMGM recommendations for you. Click HERE to which ones she picked this time!
If you would like to join in the MMGM fun, all you have to do is blog about a middle grade book you love (contests, author interviews and whatnot also count--but are most definitely not required) and email me the title of the book you're featuring and a link to your blog at SWMessenger (at) hotmail (dot) com. (Make sure you put MMGM or Marvelous Middle Grade Monday in the subject line so I see it)
NOTE: I used to not have a cut-off time for adding links to the post, but with how insane my schedule is right now, if you don't email me by Sunday evening (usually around 11pm PST is when I put the links together) I can't guarantee I'll have a chance to add you. BUT, you are welcome to add your link in the comments on this post so people can find you!
*Please note: these posts are not a reflection of my own opinions on the books featured. Each blogger is responsible for their own MMGM content and I do not pre-screen posts ahead of time, nor do I control what books they choose. I simply assemble the list based on the links that are emailed to me ahead of time
