Shannon Messenger's Blog, page 34
May 7, 2013
The Dreaded Triangle
I've been working hard to catch up on my email (if you're still waiting to hear from me, don't worry, a reply IS coming). And I've noticed a lot of you are writing to me about a term that's almost become like a bad word in the YA World: Love Triangles.
*pauses while you all gasp in horror*
To be clear, LET THE SKY FALL definitely does NOT have a love triangle. But some of you savvier readers have noticed something in there that's made you wonder if maybe, possibly I'm going to have a love triangle in book two, and I'm getting LOTS of emails worrying about it. So I realized: It's time for a blog post!
Sadly, I'm not going to tell you what happens in book 2 (and really, that would ruin all the fun anyway, wouldn't it?). But I can tell you this: I'm not a fan of love triangles.
BUT...
(actually, that needs to be a bigger "but")
BUT...
Before you go thinking that what you were worrying was going to happen in book 2 is now 100% NOT going to happen, you should know that I *might* have a different definition of love triangle than you.
Here's how *I* define a love triangle:
HOWEVER (which is really just a fancy "but"): I also don't believe that love needs to (or should) exist in a vacuum.
It's VERY rare that someone falls in love with one person and that's the only person they ever consider and the only person everyone else ever thinks they should be with and it's a perfect, clear-cut, all-stars-are-in-alignment for that relationship kind of thing.
Reality is just ... messier than that.
Maybe the character's friends or family don't approve because they want the character to be with someone else, and THEY try to pressure the character to change their mind. Or maybe somebody else likes the character, and tries to convince the character to give them a chance.
Either of those things would give the main character a moment of doubt, where they might wonder if they're making the right choice.
But to me, that's not a love triangle. That's love being tested. And I don't have any problem with that. In fact, I encourage it because I think testing the relationship only makes it stronger. Or maybe proves to the character that they really did make the wrong choice and makes them realize they need to end it.
Either way, it would only become a love triangle if the character dipped into that weird limbo of: I DON'T KNOW--I LOVE YOU BOTH EQUALLY.
So I guess what I'm trying to say is, no--there won't be a love triangle in the LET THE SKY FALL series. But that doesn't mean it's going to be smooth sailing for the relationship either.
Partially because I just don't believe love is that easy. But also because, well... I'm an especially evil author. Torturing my characters is a whole lot of fun. And my readers (you wonderful, wonderful people, you) get brought along for the crazy ride. You're welcome! :)
(and thank you so so so much for reading and caring enough to email me about these kind of things. I adore you all to pieces!)
*pauses while you all gasp in horror*
To be clear, LET THE SKY FALL definitely does NOT have a love triangle. But some of you savvier readers have noticed something in there that's made you wonder if maybe, possibly I'm going to have a love triangle in book two, and I'm getting LOTS of emails worrying about it. So I realized: It's time for a blog post!
Sadly, I'm not going to tell you what happens in book 2 (and really, that would ruin all the fun anyway, wouldn't it?). But I can tell you this: I'm not a fan of love triangles.
BUT...
(actually, that needs to be a bigger "but")
BUT...
Before you go thinking that what you were worrying was going to happen in book 2 is now 100% NOT going to happen, you should know that I *might* have a different definition of love triangle than you.
Here's how *I* define a love triangle:
Character X, who's probably the girl (but doesn't *have* to be), has two perfectly charming, perfectly wonderful love interests who are both as different as they are smokin' hot, and poor character X just can't decide which one she loves. Every time she starts to pick, the other love interest does something so wonderful and amazing that she gets all confused and conflicted and changes her mind. And back and forth the love interest swings through the entirety of the book (or sometimes even the trilogy) until I want to shout at the pages, "WILL YOU JUST DECIDE--LOVE SHOULDN'T BE THIS HARD!!!" (ahem)That's not to say that I hate every book with that kind of subplot. There have been several series that--imho, at least--pulled it off rather nicely. But it's not my favorite plot device and it doesn't fit with Vane and Audra's story so I can promise you, you don't have to worry about that happening in the LET THE SKY FALL series.
HOWEVER (which is really just a fancy "but"): I also don't believe that love needs to (or should) exist in a vacuum.
It's VERY rare that someone falls in love with one person and that's the only person they ever consider and the only person everyone else ever thinks they should be with and it's a perfect, clear-cut, all-stars-are-in-alignment for that relationship kind of thing.
Reality is just ... messier than that.
Maybe the character's friends or family don't approve because they want the character to be with someone else, and THEY try to pressure the character to change their mind. Or maybe somebody else likes the character, and tries to convince the character to give them a chance.
Either of those things would give the main character a moment of doubt, where they might wonder if they're making the right choice.
But to me, that's not a love triangle. That's love being tested. And I don't have any problem with that. In fact, I encourage it because I think testing the relationship only makes it stronger. Or maybe proves to the character that they really did make the wrong choice and makes them realize they need to end it.
Either way, it would only become a love triangle if the character dipped into that weird limbo of: I DON'T KNOW--I LOVE YOU BOTH EQUALLY.
So I guess what I'm trying to say is, no--there won't be a love triangle in the LET THE SKY FALL series. But that doesn't mean it's going to be smooth sailing for the relationship either.
Partially because I just don't believe love is that easy. But also because, well... I'm an especially evil author. Torturing my characters is a whole lot of fun. And my readers (you wonderful, wonderful people, you) get brought along for the crazy ride. You're welcome! :)
(and thank you so so so much for reading and caring enough to email me about these kind of things. I adore you all to pieces!)
May 6, 2013
MMGM Links (5/7/13)
Sigh--I really thought I'd have time for an MMGM this week (I'm reading a book I LOVE). But alas, another weekend got away from me. So all I have are links. But before we get to that, I also have last weeks winner to announce.
Okay, the winner of MADHATTAN MYSTERY, by John J. Bonk is...
Rosi Hollinbeck!
Yay! If that's you, email me at SWMessenger (at) hotmail (dot) com with your address and I will send you your prize.
And now, the other awesome MMGM links:*
- Natalie Aguirre is interviewing author Liesl Shurtiff with a giveaway of RUMP: THE TRUE STORY OF RUMPELSTILTSKIN. Click HERE for all the fun.
- Akossiwa Ketoglo is featuring NEW LANDS--with a GIVEAWAY. Click HERE for details.
- Faith Hough is championing EVERY DAY AFTER--with an author interview and an ARC GIVEAWAY! Click HERE for details.
- Michael Gettel-Gilmarten is interviewing author James Mihaley--with a signed book GIVEAWAY. Click HERE to enter.
- Susan Olson is raving about THE TIME CAVERN. Click HERE for her review.
- Andrea Mack is cheering for THE SPINDLERS. Click HERE to see why.
- Flash, the Feline Extraordinaire, (and Professional Mews to Cindy Strandvold) recommends ALVIN HO. Click HERE to see what that's all about.
- Rosi Hollinbeck has a *double* GIVEAWAY of an THE WRIGLEY RIDDLE and ON THE RUN. Click HERE for details.
- Annie McMahon is spotlighting GREEDY JACK WALLACE. Click HERE to see what she thought.
- Dorine White has an interview with author R.R. Russell. Click HERE to learn more.
- Rebecca Beherens is singing praises for WILL SPARROW ROAD. Click HERE to see her review.
- Deb Marshall is an MMGM regular. Click HERE to see what she's featuring this week.
- Michelle Isenhoff is always part of the MMGM fun. Click HERE to see what she's talking about today.
- 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!
- Pam Torres always has an MMGM up on her blog. Click HERE to see what she's spotlighting 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
April 29, 2013
Marvelous Middle Grade Monday: MADHATTAN MYSTERY, by John J. Bonk--and a giveaway!
Okay, I promised an MMGM guest post today--and this time I made time to put it together. Huge thanks to the ever-awesome Deb Marshall for covering for me. And she's chosen to feature MADHATTAN MYSTERY, by John J. Bonk.
Here's how the publisher describes it:
All set to spend their summer in New York City with their aunt while their father is honeymooning with his new wife, Lexi and her younger brother Kevin discover their snoozy summer plans turn into high-stakes adventure when Lexi overhears a plot to steal Cleopatra's famous jewels from the Metropolitan Museum of Art. Joining forces with budding investigative journalist Kim Ling Levine, they ditch day camp to track down the thieves and rake in the reward money. Can Lexi, Kevin, and Kim find out who's behind the jewel heist without getting into too much trouble themselves?
For fans of Chasing Vermeer, comes a hilarious who-done-it that will keep readers guessing to the very end.
And like always, here's Deb explain for herself why all of us need to read this one. Take it away Deb!~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~
I am here to say that I totally agree with this being a book I would hand to fans of Chasing Vermeer. I’d also give it to readers who enjoyed When You Reach Me, mostly for the absolute wonderful development and representation of a New York setting. Add in a likeable main character, a mystery complete with Egyptian artifact thieves and an utterly annoying, New York savvy, smart aleck, know-it-all fourteen year old sidekick and you have a book that you will sink further and further into with each page turn. There’s even an uber cool, actress aunt. Oh. And the kids are attending a music camp, which they sort of kind of skip out of. All this while the mc is trying to still deal with the death of her mother and her dad off on a honeymoon with the new wife a.k.a stepmom. Lots of things happening in this book and initially I was wondering if maybe there were too many things going on. Too many things introduced. But as I read everything blended so well together that it wasn’t an issue, in fact I found it really appealing to my ten year old self who would have loved this. Life is full and crazy sometimes and kids going through a difficult time can also find themselves in the midst of an adventure. Young fans of From the Mixed Up Files of Mrs. Basil E. Frankweiler might quite enjoy this one, too. Happy to have Madhattan Mystery on my bookshelves and looking forward to book talking it to my before and after school group! ~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~Wow--this one sounds amazing. I actually *blush* hadn't heard of it until today--sounds like I need to grab myself a copy . Thanks so much for pointing it out, Deb!
And in the meantime, I'm giving away a copy to one of you guys! To enter, make sure you leave a comment on this post by 11:59 pm PST on Sunday May 5th. I'll draw one random winner and post their name on Monday, May 6th. International entries welcome.
For more awesome middle grade recommendations, check out these other MMGMs floating around the blogosphere.*
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
Here's how the publisher describes it:
All set to spend their summer in New York City with their aunt while their father is honeymooning with his new wife, Lexi and her younger brother Kevin discover their snoozy summer plans turn into high-stakes adventure when Lexi overhears a plot to steal Cleopatra's famous jewels from the Metropolitan Museum of Art. Joining forces with budding investigative journalist Kim Ling Levine, they ditch day camp to track down the thieves and rake in the reward money. Can Lexi, Kevin, and Kim find out who's behind the jewel heist without getting into too much trouble themselves?
For fans of Chasing Vermeer, comes a hilarious who-done-it that will keep readers guessing to the very end.
And like always, here's Deb explain for herself why all of us need to read this one. Take it away Deb!~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~
I am here to say that I totally agree with this being a book I would hand to fans of Chasing Vermeer. I’d also give it to readers who enjoyed When You Reach Me, mostly for the absolute wonderful development and representation of a New York setting. Add in a likeable main character, a mystery complete with Egyptian artifact thieves and an utterly annoying, New York savvy, smart aleck, know-it-all fourteen year old sidekick and you have a book that you will sink further and further into with each page turn. There’s even an uber cool, actress aunt. Oh. And the kids are attending a music camp, which they sort of kind of skip out of. All this while the mc is trying to still deal with the death of her mother and her dad off on a honeymoon with the new wife a.k.a stepmom. Lots of things happening in this book and initially I was wondering if maybe there were too many things going on. Too many things introduced. But as I read everything blended so well together that it wasn’t an issue, in fact I found it really appealing to my ten year old self who would have loved this. Life is full and crazy sometimes and kids going through a difficult time can also find themselves in the midst of an adventure. Young fans of From the Mixed Up Files of Mrs. Basil E. Frankweiler might quite enjoy this one, too. Happy to have Madhattan Mystery on my bookshelves and looking forward to book talking it to my before and after school group! ~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~Wow--this one sounds amazing. I actually *blush* hadn't heard of it until today--sounds like I need to grab myself a copy . Thanks so much for pointing it out, Deb!
And in the meantime, I'm giving away a copy to one of you guys! To enter, make sure you leave a comment on this post by 11:59 pm PST on Sunday May 5th. I'll draw one random winner and post their name on Monday, May 6th. International entries welcome.
For more awesome middle grade recommendations, check out these other MMGMs floating around the blogosphere.*
-11-year-old Xander is back with a feature on FROM THE MIXED-UP FILES OF MRS. BASIL E. FRANKWEILER. Click HERE to see what he thought.
- Akossiwa Ketoglo is interviewing author Geoff Rodkey--with an ARC GIVEAWAY of his new book, NEW LANDS. Click HERE for details.
- Gina Carey is intrigued by LIAR AND SPY. Click HERE to see why.
- Katie Fitzgerald is cheering for FAMILY TREE #1: BETTER TO WISH. Click HERE for her review.
- Andrea Mack is gushing about SINKING DEEPER: OR MY QUESTIONABLE (POSSIBLY HEROIC) DECISION TO INVENT A SEA MONSTER. Click HERE to see why.
- Flash, the Feline Extraordinaire, (and Professional Mews to Cindy Strandvold) recommends A WHOLE 'NOTHER STORY. Click HERE to see what that's all about.
- Rosi Hollinbeck is featuring THE TRUTH OF ME--with a *double* GIVEAWAY of an ARC and a writing book. Click HERE for details.
- Mark Baker is spotlighting THE DOG DAYS OF MARGARET HAYES. Click HERE for his review.
- Michael Gettel-Gilmarten is cheering for BETTER NATE THAN EVER. Click HERE to see what he thought.
- Dorine White has an interview with author Adam Sidwell--with a GIVEAWAY!. Click HERE to see what they talk about.
- Wendy McDonald is raving about THE WESTING GAME. Click HERE to see why she loves this classic.
- Deb Marshall is an MMGM regular. Click HERE to see what she's featuring this week.
- Michelle Isenhoff is always part of the MMGM fun. Click HERE to see what she's talking about today.
- 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!
- Pam Torres always has an MMGM up on her blog. Click HERE to see what she's spotlighting 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
April 25, 2013
Bookanista Feature: Recent Awesome Reads
I promised myself I was going to be more regular about my Bookanista posts. But alas, this month got away from me with all of my events and travel. So I thought I'd use today's post to highlight THREE books I've read and loved recently, instead of only one.
And btw, I've noticed that I now have quite a variety of ages reading this blog (and yes, I have seen all of your amazing emails, even if I haven't had time to reply yet!). So I'm listing the age range of each of these awesome books and I hope that you'll all please keep in mind that some of them may be too old for you--for now, at least.
Okay, onto the books!
PIVOT POINT, by Kasie West
Ages: 13 and up
Goodreads Description: Knowing the outcome doesn’t always make a choice easier . . .
Addison Coleman’s life is one big “What if?” As a Searcher, whenever Addie is faced with a choice, she can look into the future and see both outcomes. It’s the ultimate insurance plan against disaster. Or so she thought. When Addie’s parents ambush her with the news of their divorce, she has to pick who she wants to live with—her father, who is leaving the paranormal compound to live among the “Norms,” or her mother, who is staying in the life Addie has always known. Addie loves her life just as it is, so her answer should be easy. One Search six weeks into the future proves it’s not.
In one potential future, Addie is adjusting to life outside the Compound as the new girl in a Norm high school where she meets Trevor, a cute, sensitive artist who understands her. In the other path, Addie is being pursued by the hottest guy in school—but she never wanted to be a quarterback’s girlfriend. When Addie’s father is asked to consult on a murder in the Compound, she’s unwittingly drawn into a dangerous game that threatens everything she holds dear. With love and loss in both lives, it all comes down to which reality she’s willing to live through . . . and who she can’t live without.
I had a feeling I was going to love this book, because I'm a huge fan of the movie SLIDING DOORS. But I was still blown away by how MUCH I loved it. The way Kasie plotted both stories and wove them together was absolutely amazing (I have no idea how she pulled that off!). I'm afraid to say more than that and risk giving anything away. So I'll just say: read it. It's seriously amazing!
~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~
THE PROGRAM, by Suzanne Young
Ages: 14 and upGoodreads description: Sloane knows better than to cry in front of anyone. With suicide now an international epidemic, one outburst could land her in The Program, the only proven course of treatment. Sloane’s parents have already lost one child; Sloane knows they’ll do anything to keep her alive. She also knows that everyone who’s been through The Program returns as a blank slate. Because their depression is gone—but so are their memories.
Under constant surveillance at home and at school, Sloane puts on a brave face and keeps her feelings buried as deep as she can. The only person Sloane can be herself with is James. He’s promised to keep them both safe and out of treatment, and Sloane knows their love is strong enough to withstand anything. But despite the promises they made to each other, it’s getting harder to hide the truth. They are both growing weaker. Depression is setting in. And The Program is coming for them.
I absolutely loved this book. In fact, it surprised me how much I loved it, because I'm not a big dystopian fan and I generally struggle with suicide books because of my own personal experiences with it. But Suzanne's writing is addictive, and the way she showed Sloane's struggle both in and out of the Program was absolutely brilliant. I can't wait for book 2 and I'm so excited that people will finally get to read book 1 (comes out April 30--go get yourselves a copy!)
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PERFECT SCOUNDRELS, by Ally Carter
Ages: 12 and upGoodreads description: Katarina Bishop and W.W. Hale the fifth were born to lead completely different lives: Kat comes from a long, proud line of loveable criminal masterminds, while Hale is the scion of one of the most seemingly perfect dynasties in the world. If their families have one thing in common, it's that they both know how to stay under the radar while getting-or stealing-whatever they want. No matter the risk, the Bishops can always be counted on, but in Hale's family, all bets are off when money is on the line. When Hale unexpectedly inherits his grandmother's billion dollar corporation, he quickly learns that there's no place for Kat and their old heists in his new role. But Kat won't let him go that easily, especially after she gets tipped off that his grandmother's will might have been altered in an elaborate con to steal the company's fortune. So instead of being the heir-this time, Hale might be the mark. Forced to keep a level head as she and her crew fight for one of their own, Kat comes up with an ambitious and far-reaching plan that only the Bishop family would dare attempt. To pull it off, Kat is prepared to do the impossible, but first, she has to decide if she's willing to save her boyfriend's company if it means losing the boy.
For those who don't know, this is the third book in the Heist Society series--which is one of my favorite series. And this time Ally decided to give her readers exactly what we want: a whole book centered around Hale! You'd think with that kind of set-up it'f be a no brainer that I'd love it--but sequels are HARD. Fortunately Ally seems to be a master of them. Each book just keeps getting better and I'm really hoping there's going to be more. I will never get enough of Kat and Hale.
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I could keep going--I've had a lot of time on planes where I've actually been able to read. But I think three is enough and I'll save the rest for another day. And if you'd like more awesome book recommendations, be sure to check out what my fellow Bookanistas are talking about:
Katy Upperman ponders LOVE AND OTHER PERISHABLE ITEMS by Laura BuzoKimberly Sabatini wonders at WHEN YOU WERE HERE by Daisy WhitneyElana Johson falls for THE FAULT IN OUR STARS by John GreenTracy Banghart loves LACRIMOSA by Christine FonsecaCorrine Jackson adores the ARCADIA BELL series by Jenn BennettRebecca Behrens delves into CODE NAME VERITY by Elizabeth WeinLenore Appelhans raves about THE RULES by Stacey KadeStasia Ward Kehoe wraps up National Poetry Month with THE POETRY TEACHER’S BOOK OF LISTS by Sylvia VardellChristine Fonseca celebrates UNDER THE NEVER SKY by Veronica RossiJessica Love hails THIS IS WHAT HAPPY LOOKS LIKE by Jennifer E. SmithApril 22, 2013
MMGM Links (4/22/13)
Sigh. I know I keep promising an MMGM, and I keep failing. I even had a guest post lined up today--and she even sent it to me on time. But Teen Book Con in Houston was a whirlwind of awesome that wiped. me. out. Pair that with major jetlag and I don't have the brain energy to assemble a proper post. So the guest post will be NEXT week. And today I just have links.
(Also: I went to bed way earlier than I normally do, so if you're one of the people who send me their links later at night you won't be on the list. SORRY. Feel free to leave it in the comments)
- Joni Peterson joins the MMGM fun with a feature on GILDA JOYCE. Click HERE to welcome her to the group.
- 11 year old Xander joins the MMGM fun too--with a feature on KEEPER OF THE LOST CITIES (I just died of the happy). Click HERE to welcome him to the group.
- Andrea Mack is gushing about THIS JOURNAL BELONGS TO RATCHET. Click HERE to see why.
- Mark Baker is cheering for THE LAST MUSKETEER: DOUBLE CROSS. Click HERE for his review.
- Akossiwa Ketoglo is soaring for THE MAGICIAN'S TOWER--with a GIVEAWAY. Click HERE for details.
- Michael Gettel-Gilmarten is singing praises for THE BFG. Click HERE to see why he loves this classic.
- Rosi Hollinbeck is reviewing IVY IN THE SHADOWS--with a GIVEAWAY. Click HERE for details.
- Michelle Mason is rooting for LIAR AND SPY. Click HERE for her review.
- Rebecca Behrens is championing MIRA'S DIARY: HOME SWEET ROME. Click HERE to see why.
- Barbara Watson is giving a shout out to THE HUMMING ROOM. Click HERE to see what she has to say.
- Sue Heavenrich is part of the Privateers Apprentice Blog tour with an author interview. Click HERE for all the fun.
- Dorine White has an interview with author Suzanne Selfors. Click HERE to see what they talk about.
- Flash, the Feline Extraordinaire, (and Professional Mews to Cindy Strandvold) recommends NEIL FLAMBE AND THE MARCO POLO MURDERS. Click HERE to see what that's all about.
- Deb Marshall is an MMGM regular. Click HERE to see what she's featuring this week.
- Michelle Isenhoff is always part of the MMGM fun. Click HERE to see what she's talking about today.
- 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!
- Pam Torres always has an MMGM up on her blog. Click HERE to see what she's spotlighting 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
April 18, 2013
Support Teen Literature Day!!!
For those of you who haven't heard, this week is National Library Week, which means there are all kinds of awesome Library related things happening. And today is one of my particular favorites: Support Teen Literature Day!
I'm sure there's all kinds of cool events going on all over the country/internetz, but one of my favorite is this:
You can click the photo if you'd like more info, but the basic idea is: print the bookplate, slip it in a YA book--ANY YA Book you want--and leave it somewhere for a reader to find*. I have several awesome books I can't wait to drop for readers. Watch my instagram/twitter feeds to see where they end up.
AND, here's another way I'm supporting Teen Literature today:
So if you live in SoCal, come join me, Debra Driza, and Gretchen McNeil at the Poway Library. We'll have candy!!!!
Hope to see some of you guys there. And I can't wait to see how many people #RockTheDrop
I'm sure there's all kinds of cool events going on all over the country/internetz, but one of my favorite is this:
You can click the photo if you'd like more info, but the basic idea is: print the bookplate, slip it in a YA book--ANY YA Book you want--and leave it somewhere for a reader to find*. I have several awesome books I can't wait to drop for readers. Watch my instagram/twitter feeds to see where they end up.
AND, here's another way I'm supporting Teen Literature today:
So if you live in SoCal, come join me, Debra Driza, and Gretchen McNeil at the Poway Library. We'll have candy!!!!
Hope to see some of you guys there. And I can't wait to see how many people #RockTheDrop
April 15, 2013
MMGM Links (4/15/13)
Annnnnnd... I'm way too wiped from my weekend in Arizona (SUCH A FUN SIGNING AT CHANGING HANDS!!!) that I still don't have an MMGM today. Le sigh. At least I put the links together--here's hoping they're right:
- Wendy McDonald joins the MMGM fun with a feature on MY LIFE AS A BOOK. Click HERE to welcome her to the group.
- Flash, the Feline Extraordinaire, (and Professional Mews to Cindy Strandvold) recommends ... *MEEP* ... KEEPER OF THE LOST CITIES. Click HERE to see what that's all about.
- Natalie Aguirre has all kinds of exciting things going on today, including a review, an "Ask the Expert" interview, and GIVEAWAYS. Click HERE for all the fun.
- Dorine White has the HADES AND THE HELM OF DARKNESS Book Blast for you. Click HERE to see what that's all about.
- Annie McMahon is cheering for ALLIGATORS, OVERHEAD. Click HERE to see her review.
- Mark Baker is spreading the love for THREE TALES OF MY FATHER'S DRAGON. Click HERE to see why.
- Rosi Hollinbeck is reviewing IVY IN THE SHADOWS--with a GIVEAWAY. Click HERE for details.
- Susan Olson is championing TANGLEWRECK. Click HERE for her review.
- Michael Gettel-Gilmarten is singing praises for THE ADVENTURES OF BEANBOY. Click HERE to see why.
- Deb Marshall is an MMGM regular. Click HERE to see what she's featuring this week.
- Michelle Isenhoff is always part of the MMGM fun. Click HERE to see what she's talking about today.
- 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!
- Pam Torres always has an MMGM up on her blog. Click HERE to see what she's spotlighting 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
April 11, 2013
Arizona Invasion!!!
Yes--that's right. If you live in the Phoenix/Tempe area, I AM COMING TO YOU! And so is the hilarious and awesome Debra Driza, who's brave enough to embark on this adventure with me.
If you would like to witness our shenanigans, you can find us here:
Changing Hands BookstoreSaturday, April 13th, 7:00 pm6428 S. McClintock Dr.Tempe, AZ 85283480-730-0205Full event details HERE.
And really, you don't want to miss out. We'll have candy. And prizes. And awkward hugs! (Plus I'll have swag for everyone who buys a book!)
(and if you can't make it--but would still like to buy a signed copy--call Changing Hands and order one before the signing. They'll ship anywhere you'd like!)
Hope to see some of you there!
If you would like to witness our shenanigans, you can find us here:
Changing Hands BookstoreSaturday, April 13th, 7:00 pm6428 S. McClintock Dr.Tempe, AZ 85283480-730-0205Full event details HERE.
And really, you don't want to miss out. We'll have candy. And prizes. And awkward hugs! (Plus I'll have swag for everyone who buys a book!)
(and if you can't make it--but would still like to buy a signed copy--call Changing Hands and order one before the signing. They'll ship anywhere you'd like!)
Hope to see some of you there!
April 9, 2013
EXCITING LET THE SKY FALL THINGS!!!!!
Whew--it's been a CRAZY week, with so many exciting things happening, I had to give you guys a quick update!
First: LET THE SKY FALL GOT TWO MORE AWESOME TRADE REVIEWS!!!!!!!!!!!
I won't paste in the whole reviews because they're kinda long, but here's my favorite parts:
Second: If reading those reviews got you all in the mood to read LET THE SKY FALL, I have GOOD NEWS. For a VERY limited time you can read the whole book for free on PulseIt (yes, really--the WHOLE book! For FREE!!!) Just click the picture below (but hurry--you only have until 4/14):
And finally, in case that's still not enough LET THE SKY FALL goodness, you can also read an EXCLUSIVE DELETED SCENE (along with rambly Shannon-commentary) over on the PulseIt blog. Click HERE to read.
First: LET THE SKY FALL GOT TWO MORE AWESOME TRADE REVIEWS!!!!!!!!!!!
I won't paste in the whole reviews because they're kinda long, but here's my favorite parts:
"In Messenger’s refreshingly clean paranormal debut . . . unusual paranormal entities and strong writing should interest genre readers in search of a fresh new series." ~ Booklist Reviews
"Fans of the Harry Potter and Twilight series, mythology, and especially high fantasy will enjoy this fast-paced, fantasy-romance piece." ~ VOYA
Second: If reading those reviews got you all in the mood to read LET THE SKY FALL, I have GOOD NEWS. For a VERY limited time you can read the whole book for free on PulseIt (yes, really--the WHOLE book! For FREE!!!) Just click the picture below (but hurry--you only have until 4/14):
And finally, in case that's still not enough LET THE SKY FALL goodness, you can also read an EXCLUSIVE DELETED SCENE (along with rambly Shannon-commentary) over on the PulseIt blog. Click HERE to read.
April 8, 2013
MMGM Links (4/8/13)
Ugh, sorry guys. I thought I'd be organized enough to put together an MMGM today, but alas, it was one of "those" weekends. So... here's the links, and we'll cross our fingers for a less hectic week next Monday:
- Natalie Aguirre is interviewing author Kit Grindstaff and giving away an ARC of THE FLAME AND THE MIST. Click HERE for details.
- Mark Baker is featuring ALCATRAZ VERSUS THE KNIGHTS OF CRYSTALLIA. Click HERE to see what he thinks.
- Barbara Watson is singing praises for CROW. Click HERE to see why.
- Michael Gettel-Gilmarten is cheering for PALMETTOS PRINCESSES. Click HERE to see why.
- Andrea Mack is championing MIRA'S DIARY: LOST IN PARIS. Click HERE to see her review.
- Flash, the Feline Extraordinaire, (and Professional Mews to Cindy Strandvold) recommends DESTINY, REWRITTEN. Click HERE to see what that's all about.
- Susan Olson is spreading the love for BACK TO PAUL REVERE. Click HERE for her review.
- Dorine White is has the PHEME THE GOSSIP Book Blast for you. Click HERE to see what that's all about.
- Rosi Hollinbeck has a double review and giveaway. GINGERSNAP and ROADTRIP. Click HERE for details.
- Laurisa White Reyes is introducing CLONEWARD BOUND. Click HERE for her thoughts.
- Akossiwa Ketoglo is also featuring CLONEWARD BOUND--with a GIVEAWAY. Click HERE for details.
- Deb Marshall is an MMGM regular. Click HERE to see what she's featuring this week.
- Michelle Isenhoff is always part of the MMGM fun. Click HERE to see what she's talking about today.
- 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!
- Pam Torres always has an MMGM up on her blog. Click HERE to see what she's spotlighting 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
