Shannon Messenger's Blog, page 44
July 9, 2012
Marvelous Middle Grade Monday: Liesl and Po, by Lauren Oliver--plus a giveaway!
Amazingly enough I managed to get organized enough to put together an MMGM this week. So I thought I'd take the chance to feature a book I recently devoured: LIESL & PO, by Lauren Oliver.
Here's how the publisher describes it:
Liesl lives in a tiny attic bedroom, locked away by her cruel stepmother. Her only friends are the shadows and the mice—until one night a ghost appears from the darkness. It is Po, who comes from the Other Side. Both Liesl and Po are lonely, but together they are less alone.
That same night, an alchemist's apprentice, Will, bungles an important delivery. He accidentally switches a box containing the most powerful magic in the world with one containing something decidedly less remarkable
Will's mistake has tremendous consequences for Liesl and Po, and it draws the three of them together on an extraordinary journey.
From New York Times bestselling author Lauren Oliver comes a luminous and magnificent novel that glows with rare magic, ghostly wonders, and a true friendship that lights even the darkest of places.
This is yet another one of the books I read while prepping for BEA (I was on a panel with Lauren Oliver), though I'd had it in my TBR pile long before that and just hadn't made my way to it. I'd picked up a copy not long after seeing this trailer, which is one of my favorite book trailers (I love the art--which is also all throughout the book, btw):
And I loved the book just as much as the trailer.
It's a quiet book, a simple story, but beautifully written and full of heart. I'm not often a fan of alternating 3rd person POVs (I have a harder time connecting to the characters when it keeps jumping around) but it actually worked really well for this story, adding more by letting us into the minds of all of the interesting people.
I enjoyed every. single. word. And I'm now very much looking forward to Oliver's next middle grade--THE SPINDLERS--which I was lucky enough to grab an ARC of at ALA. I fully expect I'll be gushing about that one as soon as I've had time to read.
In the meantime, I'd love to share the amazingness of LIESL & PO with one of you, so I'm giving away a copy to one lucky winner. To enter, make sure you leave a comment on this post by 11:59 pm PDT on Sunday, July 15th. I'll draw one random winner and post their name next week on Monday, with the MMGM post. International entries welcome!
For more amazing MMGM recommendations, be sure to check out these awesome posts floating around the blogosphere today*:
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:
Liesl lives in a tiny attic bedroom, locked away by her cruel stepmother. Her only friends are the shadows and the mice—until one night a ghost appears from the darkness. It is Po, who comes from the Other Side. Both Liesl and Po are lonely, but together they are less alone.
That same night, an alchemist's apprentice, Will, bungles an important delivery. He accidentally switches a box containing the most powerful magic in the world with one containing something decidedly less remarkable
Will's mistake has tremendous consequences for Liesl and Po, and it draws the three of them together on an extraordinary journey.
From New York Times bestselling author Lauren Oliver comes a luminous and magnificent novel that glows with rare magic, ghostly wonders, and a true friendship that lights even the darkest of places.
This is yet another one of the books I read while prepping for BEA (I was on a panel with Lauren Oliver), though I'd had it in my TBR pile long before that and just hadn't made my way to it. I'd picked up a copy not long after seeing this trailer, which is one of my favorite book trailers (I love the art--which is also all throughout the book, btw):
And I loved the book just as much as the trailer.
It's a quiet book, a simple story, but beautifully written and full of heart. I'm not often a fan of alternating 3rd person POVs (I have a harder time connecting to the characters when it keeps jumping around) but it actually worked really well for this story, adding more by letting us into the minds of all of the interesting people.
I enjoyed every. single. word. And I'm now very much looking forward to Oliver's next middle grade--THE SPINDLERS--which I was lucky enough to grab an ARC of at ALA. I fully expect I'll be gushing about that one as soon as I've had time to read.
In the meantime, I'd love to share the amazingness of LIESL & PO with one of you, so I'm giving away a copy to one lucky winner. To enter, make sure you leave a comment on this post by 11:59 pm PDT on Sunday, July 15th. I'll draw one random winner and post their name next week on Monday, with the MMGM post. International entries welcome!
For more amazing MMGM recommendations, be sure to check out these awesome posts floating around the blogosphere today*:
- 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.
- Erica Haugland gives a shout out to A TALE DARK AND GRIMM. Click HERE to see why its one of her new favorites.
- Natalie Aguirre is interviewing author Laurisa White Reyes and GIVING AWAY an ARC of THE ROCK OF IVANORE. Click HERE for all the details.
- Author Claire Legrand has another entry her awesome series called Middle Grade Memories. Click HERE to see author Nikki Loftin discuss a book she loved growing up--with a GIVEAWAY!
- Joanne Fritz is back with the MMGM gang with features on CHAINS and FORGE. Click HERE to see why she chose them.
- Brennan and Meyrick Murphy are ALSO gushing about FORGE. Click HERE to see what these two middle grade readers thought of it.
- Gabrielle Prendergast has been struck by MY OWN REVOLUTION. Click HERE to see her feature.
- Michelle Mason is on a high for THE SECOND LEVEL. Click HERE to see why she enjoyed it.
- Gina Carey is having ONE CRAZY SUMMER. Click HERE to see her review.
- Jennifer Rumberger is featuring CHASING THE STARS. Click HERE to see why she loves it.
- Jasmine Marie is raving about SO B. Click HERE to read her feature.
- Andrea Mack is championing MASTERPIECE. Click HERE to learn why she thinks its a perfect title for this book.
- Michelle Isenhoff has been caught by PETER AND THE STARCATCHERS. Click HERE to see why.
- Laurisa Reyes has an interview with author Nikki Loftin--plus a GIVEAWAY! Click HERE for details
- Rosi Hollinbeck has two features for you: TED & ME and GUY LANGMAN, CRIME SCENE PROCRASTINATOR--with a GIVEAWAY! Click HERE for all the details.
- Ruth Donnelly has two features this week, MISSING ON SUPERSTITION MOUNTAIN and BESWITCHED. Click HERE to see her reviews.
- Dorine White has cheering for THE GODDESS GIRLS--with a GIVEAWAY! Click HERE for all the fun.
- Barbara Watson is sweet on PIE. Click HERE to see why she thinks you'll be too.
- Chelanne Green is spreading the love for FINALLY. Click HERE to see why.
- Heidi Grange is feeling SASSY. Click HERE to read her full review.
-Mrs. Heise joins the MMGM fun with her first feature. And um... it's for KEEPER OF THE LOST CITIES (this is very surreal guys. VERY SURREAL.) Click HERE to see what she thought and welcome her to the group!
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.
July 6, 2012
When it starts to become real...
Wow. We're officially less than 3 months from KEEPER OF THE LOST CITIES' release--and less than 8 months from LET THE SKY FALL's release!!!!
Excuse me while I go FREAK THE CRAP OUT for a few seconds!!!!
*flail*
*floomp*
*twitch*
Okay. I feel better now. Sorta.
*twitches again*
But it's CRAZY, you guys. ARCs for both books are making their way into the world. Reviews and fan emails are trickling in. I'm being booked for launch parties and book fairs and other amazing things that I really don't feel cool enough for (probably because I'm not--shhhh, don't tell anyone!) and going to shows and conventions where my book(s) are being featured. I'm getting google alerts for people posting about wanting to read my books and stumbling across Twitter conversations where people are talking about how much they loved them (which always make me feel like I'm stalking myself when I read them).
And because of all of that, I've had a lot of people ask me some variation of the same question: How does it feel having your dream come true?
But honestly? I never know how to respond. Except maybe to blush and mumble: "surreal" and change the subject.
Which is probably a giant Shannonfail. I'm betting they're expecting something more like this:
And I do feel that way. (though whoa--is anyone else getting dizzy, watching that?)
It's amazing and incredible and fantastic that my books are going to be on shelves for people to buy and read in the VERY-not-too-distant-future. (*twitches again*) It's even more unbelievable that some of you have already read them (and even more astounding that you liked them!) And it's all starting to feel very very real and soon and OMG THIS IS HAPPENING!!!!
But the funny thing is ... nothing's really changed either.
I'm still the same nerdy, rambling, cupcake-obsessed girl I've always been. And other than those rare times when I have to go somewhere as "Author Shannon", no one knows who I am or what I do or cares that I write books for children (and even AT those "Author Shannon" places, the majority of the people are like, Shannon Who?). And I LOVE that. I didn't do this because I wanted fame or praise (not saying I'm OPPOSED to those or anything...) I did it because I love to write and I loved these stories and I wanted to get them "out there" because that's the thing about stories. They should be shared.
And that's HAPPENING. So it really is like this:
But it's also surreal and strange. Especially since most days I still live in my sweat pants and a frumpy Batman shirt, eating candy instead of foods with actual nutrition, wrestling with the imaginary people in my head WHO WON'T FREAKING COOPERATE FOR THIS REVISION. (ahem)
So basically... it's impossible to process. Which is probably why I keep reverting to my mumbled, "Surreal."
Someday I'm sure I'll make sense of it all (and also get better about taking compliments--I'm TERRIBLE about knowing what to say. Ask my husband if you don't believe me) and then when you ask me I'll be able to have the proper beaming/giddiness:
In the meantime I hope you'll bear with me as I continue fumble my way through all of this craziness. It's surreal. But nice.
(Hee--anyone catch the reference??? Love that movie!)
Excuse me while I go FREAK THE CRAP OUT for a few seconds!!!!
*flail*
*floomp*
*twitch*
Okay. I feel better now. Sorta.
*twitches again*
But it's CRAZY, you guys. ARCs for both books are making their way into the world. Reviews and fan emails are trickling in. I'm being booked for launch parties and book fairs and other amazing things that I really don't feel cool enough for (probably because I'm not--shhhh, don't tell anyone!) and going to shows and conventions where my book(s) are being featured. I'm getting google alerts for people posting about wanting to read my books and stumbling across Twitter conversations where people are talking about how much they loved them (which always make me feel like I'm stalking myself when I read them).
And because of all of that, I've had a lot of people ask me some variation of the same question: How does it feel having your dream come true?
But honestly? I never know how to respond. Except maybe to blush and mumble: "surreal" and change the subject.
Which is probably a giant Shannonfail. I'm betting they're expecting something more like this:
And I do feel that way. (though whoa--is anyone else getting dizzy, watching that?)
It's amazing and incredible and fantastic that my books are going to be on shelves for people to buy and read in the VERY-not-too-distant-future. (*twitches again*) It's even more unbelievable that some of you have already read them (and even more astounding that you liked them!) And it's all starting to feel very very real and soon and OMG THIS IS HAPPENING!!!!
But the funny thing is ... nothing's really changed either.
I'm still the same nerdy, rambling, cupcake-obsessed girl I've always been. And other than those rare times when I have to go somewhere as "Author Shannon", no one knows who I am or what I do or cares that I write books for children (and even AT those "Author Shannon" places, the majority of the people are like, Shannon Who?). And I LOVE that. I didn't do this because I wanted fame or praise (not saying I'm OPPOSED to those or anything...) I did it because I love to write and I loved these stories and I wanted to get them "out there" because that's the thing about stories. They should be shared.
And that's HAPPENING. So it really is like this:
But it's also surreal and strange. Especially since most days I still live in my sweat pants and a frumpy Batman shirt, eating candy instead of foods with actual nutrition, wrestling with the imaginary people in my head WHO WON'T FREAKING COOPERATE FOR THIS REVISION. (ahem)
So basically... it's impossible to process. Which is probably why I keep reverting to my mumbled, "Surreal."
Someday I'm sure I'll make sense of it all (and also get better about taking compliments--I'm TERRIBLE about knowing what to say. Ask my husband if you don't believe me) and then when you ask me I'll be able to have the proper beaming/giddiness:
In the meantime I hope you'll bear with me as I continue fumble my way through all of this craziness. It's surreal. But nice.
(Hee--anyone catch the reference??? Love that movie!)
July 2, 2012
Marvelous Middle Grade Monday: Links for the week!
Sorry guys--had a few too many things go on last week to get organized for an MMGM. But at least there are a ton of awesome bloggers taking up the slack for me.* Check out these awesome 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.
- 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.
- Author Claire Legrand is back with her awesome series called Middle Grade Memories. Click HERE to see editor Zareen Jaffery discuss a book she loved growing up--with a GIVEAWAY!
- Natalie Aguirre is interviewing Carolynn Turgeon and GIVING AWAY a signed copy of THE NEXT FULL MOON. Click HERE to check it out.
- Michelle Mason is swept up in THE STRANGE CASE OF ORIGAMI YODA. Click HERE to see what she thought of it.
- Susan Olson is championing BACK IN TIME WITH BENJAMIN FRANKLIN; A QWERTY STEVENS ADVENTURE, and BENJAMIN FRANKLINSTEIN LIVES. Click HERE to see her review.
- Gina Carey is in love with CORALINE. Click HERE to see why.
- Laurisa Reyes has an interview with author Erin Moulton--plus a GIVEAWAY! Click HERE for details
- Ruth Donnelly has been caught by THE BOY WHO HOWLED. Click HERE to see why she thinks you'll be too.
- Andrea Mack is discussing BOYS WITHOUT NAMES. Click HERE to learn why she thinks its an important book.
- Michelle Isenhoff is struck by DEAD END IN NORVELT. Click HERE to learn more about it.
- Brennan and Meyrick Murphy are talking about 43 OLD CEMETERY ROAD #4: THE PHANTOM OF THE POST OFFICE. Click HERE to see what they have to say.
- Jennifer Rumberger is featuring CHARLOTTE'S WEB. Click HERE to see why she thinks we should celebrate this classic.
- Dorine White has chills for the GROOSHAM GRANGE SERIES. Click HERE to see what she loves about it.
- Jasmine Marie joins the MMGM fun with a feature on EVERYTHING ON A WAFFLE. Click HERE to welcome her to the group!
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.
July 1, 2012
WHY DO I ALWAYS FORGET THE WINNER???
Ugh--sorry guys. Once again I forgot to post the winner (I swear I'm going to stop doing this someday).
Okay, the winner of REAL MERMAIDS DON'T HOLD THEIR BREATH is...
jpetroroy!
Yay!
*tosses confetti*
If that's you, please email me at SWMessenger (at) hotmail (dot) com with your mailing address and I will ship off your prize.
Okay, the winner of REAL MERMAIDS DON'T HOLD THEIR BREATH is...
jpetroroy!
Yay!
*tosses confetti*
If that's you, please email me at SWMessenger (at) hotmail (dot) com with your mailing address and I will ship off your prize.
June 27, 2012
ALA--Shannon Style (sorta)
Okay, so this will NOT be as awesome as my BEA recap, partially because my brain is still SUPER exhausted from the chaos of ALA, but mostly because I um... forgot to take pictures of almost everything. So... yeah. SORRY.
BUT I DID GET THE ALL IMPORTANT SHANNON-STANDING WITH THE KEEPER COVER DISPLAY AT THE S&S BOOTH PICTURE:
So... there's that. :)
(Somehow I'm betting you find that slightly less exciting than I do...)
Anyway, I keep trying to figure out how to sum up ALA--since the pictures I'm about to show you most definitely will NOT do that for me. But I'm struggling a bit.
In some ways it was much more relaxed than BEA, since I didn't have to get on a plane or switch time zones or do scary panels where all eyes were on me, expecting me to sound smart. Mostly I just hung out with friends:
With my crit partner Sara McClung and blogger extraordinaire Sasha
Walked around the booths seeing publishing friends, chatting with librarians, and snatching up amazing ARCs to read:
(a VERY small sampling. I have lots more--and yes, that definitely means I have some awesome giveaways coming up, both on the blog and on Twitter)
And went to various mixers/meet-ups:
With Kiersten White and the adorable Sophia Chang, at the YALSA Mix and Mingle.
S&S did some KEEPER promo (you already saw the display in the booth) and gave out another huge tower of ARCs--which was gone in 15 minutes. (I still don't know how to wrap my head around that) So sorry to those of you who'd been hoping to get one and didn't. There will still be some given away at Comic Con--and S&S still has some mailings to do (and I have some contests up my sleeve) so all hope is not lost! And THANK YOU for your amazing support and enthusiasm. You make me feel way cooler than I deserve to feel (especially those of you who stopped me at the booth and had me sign your ARCs. That was too surreal for words).
And... that's pretty much it. I mean, I did LOTS more fun things and hung out with lots more amazing people--and went to the awesome S&S party on Saturday night, but... without pictures it all just feels like name dropping, which... *yawn*
OH! But there was THIS:
I FINALLY MET LILA!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!
There are absolutely not enough exclamation marks to convey how exciting it was to finally meet Lisa and Laura Roecker. I've been following their blog since 2009 (!!!!) AND we plan WriteOnCon together so we have literally exchanged thousands of emails. And now we have FINALLY met in person! And they were every bit as hilarious and gorgeous as I knew they would be.
Sadly, we only got to visit for about 15 minutes. But it was EPIC. Here's hoping we meet again soon!
And sadly, that's the last of my pictures. Like I said at the beginning, I was a bit of a fail this time when it came to photographs. So I guess I'll stop here.
I have another post percolating on how bizarre this whole debut-author thing truly is--but I think that's a subject best left for when my brain is working a wee bit better. For now, I need to rest up, and then get cracking on this revision. Bring it on KEEPER Book 2--YOUR TIME HAS FINALLY COME!
BUT I DID GET THE ALL IMPORTANT SHANNON-STANDING WITH THE KEEPER COVER DISPLAY AT THE S&S BOOTH PICTURE:
So... there's that. :)
(Somehow I'm betting you find that slightly less exciting than I do...)
Anyway, I keep trying to figure out how to sum up ALA--since the pictures I'm about to show you most definitely will NOT do that for me. But I'm struggling a bit.
In some ways it was much more relaxed than BEA, since I didn't have to get on a plane or switch time zones or do scary panels where all eyes were on me, expecting me to sound smart. Mostly I just hung out with friends:
With my crit partner Sara McClung and blogger extraordinaire SashaWalked around the booths seeing publishing friends, chatting with librarians, and snatching up amazing ARCs to read:
(a VERY small sampling. I have lots more--and yes, that definitely means I have some awesome giveaways coming up, both on the blog and on Twitter)And went to various mixers/meet-ups:
With Kiersten White and the adorable Sophia Chang, at the YALSA Mix and Mingle.S&S did some KEEPER promo (you already saw the display in the booth) and gave out another huge tower of ARCs--which was gone in 15 minutes. (I still don't know how to wrap my head around that) So sorry to those of you who'd been hoping to get one and didn't. There will still be some given away at Comic Con--and S&S still has some mailings to do (and I have some contests up my sleeve) so all hope is not lost! And THANK YOU for your amazing support and enthusiasm. You make me feel way cooler than I deserve to feel (especially those of you who stopped me at the booth and had me sign your ARCs. That was too surreal for words).
And... that's pretty much it. I mean, I did LOTS more fun things and hung out with lots more amazing people--and went to the awesome S&S party on Saturday night, but... without pictures it all just feels like name dropping, which... *yawn*
OH! But there was THIS:
I FINALLY MET LILA!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!There are absolutely not enough exclamation marks to convey how exciting it was to finally meet Lisa and Laura Roecker. I've been following their blog since 2009 (!!!!) AND we plan WriteOnCon together so we have literally exchanged thousands of emails. And now we have FINALLY met in person! And they were every bit as hilarious and gorgeous as I knew they would be.
Sadly, we only got to visit for about 15 minutes. But it was EPIC. Here's hoping we meet again soon!
And sadly, that's the last of my pictures. Like I said at the beginning, I was a bit of a fail this time when it came to photographs. So I guess I'll stop here.
I have another post percolating on how bizarre this whole debut-author thing truly is--but I think that's a subject best left for when my brain is working a wee bit better. For now, I need to rest up, and then get cracking on this revision. Bring it on KEEPER Book 2--YOUR TIME HAS FINALLY COME!
June 25, 2012
Marvelous Middle Grade Monday: Real Mermaids Don't Hold Their Breath--and a gveaway!
I'm still finishing up my time at ALA--so I didn't have time to write up a feature this week. I also TOTALLY forgot to draw a winner for last week's MMGM contest--so I will do that RIGHT NOW:
The winner of WALK TWO MOONS, by Sharon Creech, is...
Keli Andrews!
Yay!
*confetti toss*
If that's you, email me at SWMessenger (at) hotmail (dot) com with your mailing address and I will send you your prize!
Okay, back to MMGM!
Since I'm out of town, the always amazing Deb Marshall (THANK YOU DEB!!!) volunteered to cover my MMGM. And she's chosen to feature one of her favorites: REAL MERMAIDS DON'T HOLD THEIR BREATH, by Helene Boudreau.
Here's how the publisher describes it:
Normal is Never Coming Back
Jade is totally confused. As in, "will this be a leg-day or a tail-day?" kind of confused. Even worse, it's been forever since her first kiss with Luke and now—nothing. Not even a text message.
Sigh.
But Jade doesn't have time to figure out the weirdness of boys and how to use her shiny new tail. (Seriously, being a mermaid should come with a handbook.) She has to come up with a plan to get her missing mermaid mom back on dry land.
The only problem is...Jade is afraid of the ocean. But even aqua-phobic mer-girls have to take the plunge sometime...And just like in previous times, here's Deb explain for herself why all of us need to read this one. Take it away Deb!~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~ Jade is a real girl, with real issues that some of you are going through and some of you remember. She’s just getting on with growing her independence, her friendships, figuring herself and the rest of the world out. Now take that and add in:
finding out you’re a mermaid because your mother was oneknowing your mother is alive and trapped in the ocean…somewherenavigating your first crush and the crush is returned then suddenly he seems no longer interested which turns into heartbreak hiding who you really are from your best friend saving your mom from evil You will jump into the water with this one and not come out until done reading. The story is well developed and told in a voice so well done it is as if Jade is sitting next to you. Of course…the same thing is true of the first one, REAL MERMAIDS DON’T WEAR TOE RINGS. Thanks for letting me share the love Shannon. Happy MMGM everyone!
~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~
Ooo, that sounds super fun! I will definitely have to pick up a copy (well... once I work my way through this mountain of ARCs I just picked up. But it's on the TBR List Now!)
In the meantime, I want one of you to have the chance to discover it, so I'm giving away a copy to one lucky winner. To enter, make sure you leave a comment on this post by 11:59 pm PST on Saturday, June 30th. I'll draw one random winner and post their name on Sunday, July 1st. 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
The winner of WALK TWO MOONS, by Sharon Creech, is...
Keli Andrews!
Yay!
*confetti toss*
If that's you, email me at SWMessenger (at) hotmail (dot) com with your mailing address and I will send you your prize!
Okay, back to MMGM!
Since I'm out of town, the always amazing Deb Marshall (THANK YOU DEB!!!) volunteered to cover my MMGM. And she's chosen to feature one of her favorites: REAL MERMAIDS DON'T HOLD THEIR BREATH, by Helene Boudreau.
Here's how the publisher describes it:
Normal is Never Coming Back
Jade is totally confused. As in, "will this be a leg-day or a tail-day?" kind of confused. Even worse, it's been forever since her first kiss with Luke and now—nothing. Not even a text message.
Sigh.
But Jade doesn't have time to figure out the weirdness of boys and how to use her shiny new tail. (Seriously, being a mermaid should come with a handbook.) She has to come up with a plan to get her missing mermaid mom back on dry land.
The only problem is...Jade is afraid of the ocean. But even aqua-phobic mer-girls have to take the plunge sometime...And just like in previous times, here's Deb explain for herself why all of us need to read this one. Take it away Deb!~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~ Jade is a real girl, with real issues that some of you are going through and some of you remember. She’s just getting on with growing her independence, her friendships, figuring herself and the rest of the world out. Now take that and add in:
finding out you’re a mermaid because your mother was oneknowing your mother is alive and trapped in the ocean…somewherenavigating your first crush and the crush is returned then suddenly he seems no longer interested which turns into heartbreak hiding who you really are from your best friend saving your mom from evil You will jump into the water with this one and not come out until done reading. The story is well developed and told in a voice so well done it is as if Jade is sitting next to you. Of course…the same thing is true of the first one, REAL MERMAIDS DON’T WEAR TOE RINGS. Thanks for letting me share the love Shannon. Happy MMGM everyone!
~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~
Ooo, that sounds super fun! I will definitely have to pick up a copy (well... once I work my way through this mountain of ARCs I just picked up. But it's on the TBR List Now!)
In the meantime, I want one of you to have the chance to discover it, so I'm giving away a copy to one lucky winner. To enter, make sure you leave a comment on this post by 11:59 pm PST on Saturday, June 30th. I'll draw one random winner and post their name on Sunday, July 1st. International entries welcome.
For more awesome middle grade recommendations, check out these other MMGMs floating around the blogosphere.*
- 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.
- Michelle Mason is spreading the love for BREADCRUMBS. Click HERE to see what she thought of it.
- Ruth Donnelly has been swayed by SWAY. Click HERE to see why she thinks you'll be too.
- Barbara Watson is helps reveal the cover for THE THIRTEENTH SIGN! Click HERE to see the awesome!
- Michelle Isenhoff is cheering for NUMBER THE STARS. Click HERE to learn more about it.
- Gabrielle Prendergast is caught up in THE RANGERS APPRENTICE. Click HERE to see her review.
- Brennan and Meyrick Murphy are talking about THE TALES OF BEETLE THE BARD. Click HERE to see what they have to say.
- Erica Haugland joins the MMGM fun with a feature on MY VERY UN-FAIRY TALE LIFE. Click HERE to welcome her to the group.
- Laurisa Reyes has an interview with author Joanne Levy--plus a GIVEAWAY! Click HERE for details
- Dorine White is digging THE HERO'S GUIDE TO SAVING YOUR KINGDOM. Click HERE to see what she loved.
- Heidi Grange also joins the MMGM fun with a feature on WOLF STORM. Click HERE to welcome her to the fun.
- Michael Gettel-Gilmarten is taking his turn to marvel at WONDER. Click HERE for his review.
- Natalie Lorenzi is intetviewing author Audrey Vernick over HERE. She also begins her own launch week over HERE.
- Melanie Conklin is dishing about THE FOURTH STALL. Click HERE to see why.
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
June 22, 2012
Where's Shannon--The ALA Edition!
Yes, that's right--I've only barely recovered from BEA and yet I'm off again for a weekend in Anaheim at ALA.
THANKFULLY, my schedule is muuuuuuuuuuuuuuuuuuuuuuch less hectic this time, and involves no, "Shannon doing scary official things she could easily screw up." So phew--I might actually get to relax this time! (well... as much as I'm capable of relaxing...)
I can confirm that S&S WILL be giving out KEEPER OF THE LOST CITIES ARCs at booth 2600-2601 (more info on what giveaways they'll be doing can be found HERE).
As for me, I'll mostly be wandering the exhibit floors and would love to say hi if you spot me--don't be shy. I'm also happy to sign any ARCs. And I'll have pretty bookmarks with me!!! (also, warning: I get OBLIVIOUS in crowds, so please don't take it personally if I walk right past you. Just throw an ARC at my head).
I'm also *planning* to be at the following evening meet-ups--for at least part of the time:
The Middle Grade Meet-UpFriday, June 22nd 7:30 PM Hilton Anaheim Lobby
YALSA Mix and MingleFriday, June 22nd, 5:00 PMMortons, Anaheim
The Great YA Blogger Meet-upSaturday, June 23rd 8:00 PMDegrees Wine and Patio Bar at the Marriott
Hopefully the convention center will have better cell service than the Javits and I will be able to Tweet and FB more updates. Either way, expect a full report when I'm back next week--along with some contests for the awesome ARCs I manage to grab.
In the meantime, have a great weekened!
THANKFULLY, my schedule is muuuuuuuuuuuuuuuuuuuuuuch less hectic this time, and involves no, "Shannon doing scary official things she could easily screw up." So phew--I might actually get to relax this time! (well... as much as I'm capable of relaxing...)
I can confirm that S&S WILL be giving out KEEPER OF THE LOST CITIES ARCs at booth 2600-2601 (more info on what giveaways they'll be doing can be found HERE).
As for me, I'll mostly be wandering the exhibit floors and would love to say hi if you spot me--don't be shy. I'm also happy to sign any ARCs. And I'll have pretty bookmarks with me!!! (also, warning: I get OBLIVIOUS in crowds, so please don't take it personally if I walk right past you. Just throw an ARC at my head).
I'm also *planning* to be at the following evening meet-ups--for at least part of the time:
The Middle Grade Meet-UpFriday, June 22nd 7:30 PM Hilton Anaheim Lobby
YALSA Mix and MingleFriday, June 22nd, 5:00 PMMortons, Anaheim
The Great YA Blogger Meet-upSaturday, June 23rd 8:00 PMDegrees Wine and Patio Bar at the Marriott
Hopefully the convention center will have better cell service than the Javits and I will be able to Tweet and FB more updates. Either way, expect a full report when I'm back next week--along with some contests for the awesome ARCs I manage to grab.
In the meantime, have a great weekened!
June 21, 2012
Bookanista Feature: Holy Amazing Covers, Batman!
Since there have been SO many amazing cover reveals going on lately, I thought I would use this week's Bookanista Feature to showcase a few of my favorites--in case you missed them! (and their titles are all goodreads links, in case you would like more info about the book, which you SHOULD)
THE ARCHIVED, by Victoria Schwab
I love how abstract and eye catching this is. It's just the kind of image that makes you DYING to know more--especially what that key unlocks!
DUALED, by Elsie Chapman
Kick-butt heroine AND a creepy shadow that looks like its hunting her? Um--YES PLEASE! And don't even get me started on the tagline!
LEVEL 2, by Lenore Appelhans
The photo itself is really eye-catcing--but what makes it are the details. The white dots. The maze-like font. Such coolness!
THE MADMAN'S DAUGHTER, by Megan Shepherd
There's something both romantic AND creepy about this cover--and I have NO idea how they pulled that off, but I am SOLD.
MIND GAMES, by Kiersten White
WHERE DO I START???? The colors? The eyes? EVERYTHING IS PERFECT! And I've read this one, so I know just how perfect it really is.
PROPHECY, by Ellen Oh
I'm a sucker for books that look like ancient, supercool books anyway--but then they have that smoky dragon swirling around the ruby? Brilliant!!!
TAKEN, by Erin BowmanEverything about this makes me desperate to know what's going on. And those creepy trees? WIN. Not to mention I LOVE how the "K" looks like the tree is taking it.
THE THIRTEENTH SIGN, by Kristin O'Donnell Tubb(and Kristin is having a CONTEST)This cover feels like a treasure hunt. So many intricate details subtly woven into the design.
I think what I love most about all of these is how DIFFERENT they all are. Finally we're getting some variety in YA covers! And this is in NO way an exhaustive list. Just some of my current faves.
Have I missed some you love? Tell me in the comments so I can check them out!
For more fabulous book recommendations, check out what my fellow Bookanistas are talking about:
Elana Johnson can't get enough of See You At Harry'sShannon Messenger shares some YA cover lust Shelli Johannes-Wells talks about the cover for The 13th Sign--with a contest!Stasia Ward Kehoe and Nikki Katz gush about SurrenderJessica Love has feelings for The ListKaty Upperman lays it on the line for The Book Thief
THE ARCHIVED, by Victoria SchwabI love how abstract and eye catching this is. It's just the kind of image that makes you DYING to know more--especially what that key unlocks!
DUALED, by Elsie ChapmanKick-butt heroine AND a creepy shadow that looks like its hunting her? Um--YES PLEASE! And don't even get me started on the tagline!
LEVEL 2, by Lenore AppelhansThe photo itself is really eye-catcing--but what makes it are the details. The white dots. The maze-like font. Such coolness!
THE MADMAN'S DAUGHTER, by Megan ShepherdThere's something both romantic AND creepy about this cover--and I have NO idea how they pulled that off, but I am SOLD.
MIND GAMES, by Kiersten WhiteWHERE DO I START???? The colors? The eyes? EVERYTHING IS PERFECT! And I've read this one, so I know just how perfect it really is.
PROPHECY, by Ellen OhI'm a sucker for books that look like ancient, supercool books anyway--but then they have that smoky dragon swirling around the ruby? Brilliant!!!
TAKEN, by Erin BowmanEverything about this makes me desperate to know what's going on. And those creepy trees? WIN. Not to mention I LOVE how the "K" looks like the tree is taking it.
THE THIRTEENTH SIGN, by Kristin O'Donnell Tubb(and Kristin is having a CONTEST)This cover feels like a treasure hunt. So many intricate details subtly woven into the design. I think what I love most about all of these is how DIFFERENT they all are. Finally we're getting some variety in YA covers! And this is in NO way an exhaustive list. Just some of my current faves.
Have I missed some you love? Tell me in the comments so I can check them out!
For more fabulous book recommendations, check out what my fellow Bookanistas are talking about:
Elana Johnson can't get enough of See You At Harry'sShannon Messenger shares some YA cover lust Shelli Johannes-Wells talks about the cover for The 13th Sign--with a contest!Stasia Ward Kehoe and Nikki Katz gush about SurrenderJessica Love has feelings for The ListKaty Upperman lays it on the line for The Book Thief
June 20, 2012
So, that ARC selling thing...
If you follow me on Facebook or Twitter--or saw Emily White's post yesterday--you've heard that some of my precious KEEPER ARCs have ended up on ebay. And sadly, I'm most definitely NOT the only author this is happening too. If you search ebay for any of the BEA titles you'll find ARCs for sale--many for ridiculous prices. Which of course makes those of us who understand how ARCs are supposed to be used feel like this:
After all, ARCs specifically say on them--SEVERAL TIMES--that they are "NOT FOR SALE." They're a marketing tool the publishers produce--at a HIGHER cost per book than finished hardcovers--so that they can get the ARC in the hands of reviewers and hopefully generate some buzz and excitement for the book's release. Authors also receive no money from the unauthorized sale of an ARC, so anyone who sells them is *technically* stealing from us.
Which... sucks. Of course it sucks.
However, neither of those are the real reasons *I'm* annoyed by this process.
What bothers me is that the people who went to BEA and grabbed ARCs so that they could go home and list them all on ebay took them from people who genuinely wanted to read the books and promote them. I can think of many, MANY amazing people that I would LOVE to give an ARC to, but I just don't have copies available. Shoot, even I--as THE AUTHOR--only get to keep one. ONE! And I'm still getting maximum use out of that "one" by sharing it with certain friends and having them read, sign, and return it to me. The rest of my copies are all being used for marketing purposes.
So to see ARCs--precious, needed ARCs--being listed on ebay as "NEW--NEVER BEEN READ" and sold to the highest bidder is just... well, it's icky. Really really icky.
And of course I've reported each auction I've seen--not that it's seemed to matter. I've seen three sell now, and I'm sure they won't be the last (and one--strangely enough--cost the winner almost double the cost of a pre-order by the time you add in shipping).
BUT, as with so many things in this world, there's not much I can do to stop it.
So it's up to me. I can stress and shout at the wind about it. Or I can tell myself that in a backwards way it's surreally strange that my book is cool enough to not only end up on ebay in ARC form--but to have people interested in it enough to buy it. Here's hoping that will eventually be reflected in REAL book sales. And here's hoping even more that whatever slightly misguided souls have purchased those ARCs are buying them for readers--preferably KIDS--who will fall in love with my story.
At the end of the day, I guess THAT'S all that matters.
But... I still think selling ARCs is icky...
After all, ARCs specifically say on them--SEVERAL TIMES--that they are "NOT FOR SALE." They're a marketing tool the publishers produce--at a HIGHER cost per book than finished hardcovers--so that they can get the ARC in the hands of reviewers and hopefully generate some buzz and excitement for the book's release. Authors also receive no money from the unauthorized sale of an ARC, so anyone who sells them is *technically* stealing from us.Which... sucks. Of course it sucks.
However, neither of those are the real reasons *I'm* annoyed by this process.
What bothers me is that the people who went to BEA and grabbed ARCs so that they could go home and list them all on ebay took them from people who genuinely wanted to read the books and promote them. I can think of many, MANY amazing people that I would LOVE to give an ARC to, but I just don't have copies available. Shoot, even I--as THE AUTHOR--only get to keep one. ONE! And I'm still getting maximum use out of that "one" by sharing it with certain friends and having them read, sign, and return it to me. The rest of my copies are all being used for marketing purposes.
So to see ARCs--precious, needed ARCs--being listed on ebay as "NEW--NEVER BEEN READ" and sold to the highest bidder is just... well, it's icky. Really really icky.
And of course I've reported each auction I've seen--not that it's seemed to matter. I've seen three sell now, and I'm sure they won't be the last (and one--strangely enough--cost the winner almost double the cost of a pre-order by the time you add in shipping).
BUT, as with so many things in this world, there's not much I can do to stop it.
So it's up to me. I can stress and shout at the wind about it. Or I can tell myself that in a backwards way it's surreally strange that my book is cool enough to not only end up on ebay in ARC form--but to have people interested in it enough to buy it. Here's hoping that will eventually be reflected in REAL book sales. And here's hoping even more that whatever slightly misguided souls have purchased those ARCs are buying them for readers--preferably KIDS--who will fall in love with my story.
At the end of the day, I guess THAT'S all that matters.
But... I still think selling ARCs is icky...
June 19, 2012
So... this is awkward...
So... I don't know if you guys know this, but... a couple of weeks ago, THIS happened:
GIANT TOWERS of KEEPER OF THE LOST CITIES ARCs were given away at BEA--along with a small batch of LET THE SKY FALL ARCs. And even more KEEPER ARCs will go out this weekend at ALA. And then the special mailings will begin...
All of which is SUPER exciting.
But it's also... awkward. Really awkward . Because all those books are Advance READER/REVIEWER Copies. And reviews put me in a rather sticky situation.
See ... here's the thing:
I DON'T expect everyone to love my books the way I do. I get it that some people won't like them--or that some will think they're good-not-great and give them mid-level rankings--or that even in a favorable review they might point out small quibbles with things in the interests of being fair. It's the nature of this business and I totally, totally get it.
HOWEVER ...
I'm not sure I want to SEE the negative reviews.
Especially since I kinda sorta *know* some of you--and while I would NEVER (seriously, NEVER) expect all of you to 5-Star my books if that's not genuinely how you feel about them, it might be a *little* awkward knowing what you really think. Seems like ignorance might be bliss in that area, yanno?
And that's just the tip of the iceberg. Then there's all the crazy Author Etiquette: Should I "like" good reviews--or does that look self serving? Do I comment on a review thanking the person--or will that make them uncomfortable? But will they think I'm rude if I don't thank them? But... will it look bad if I don't comment on or "like" a negative review?
I know those seem like small things, but we ALL know that Authors + Reviews x Twitter = one big giant pool of Drama.
So ... I've decided that I'm going to do my best to NOT read or respond to reviews. But ... that's awkward too!
See, I'm also a long time blogger, and I remember how excited I got when an author would stop by my blog and comment on my review (shoot, I STILL get excited when that happens). And I would love to be able to do that for others. But I don't know HOW to do that and not stumble across bad reviews that will make me want to throw my laptop off a bridge and flee to Mexico. Or how to not inadvertently breach some cardinal rule of online author etiquette and end up eyeball deep in faux pas.
Do you see my dilemma?
As if that weren't tricky enough, there's the RT factor. (Oh Twitter, it's a good thing I love you because you make everything so complicated). Again, I'm a blogger, so I KNOW how awesome it is when an author RTs about a contest or a review. BUT... I can't RT a link to something if I haven't checked the link first. And then there's the added challenge of balancing my Twitter feed, so it isn't all: ME ME ME, MY BOOKS MY BOOKS MY BOOKS, LIKE THEM, BUY THEM, SEE HOW MUCH EVERYONE LOVES THEM!!!!!!!!!!!!!! That gets old REAL quick.
So ... yeah. Like I said: IT'S AWKWARD. And I have a feeling I'm going to make a whole lot of mistakes as I muddle through these next few months. Which is why I wanted to write this post, even though I knew I'd never get through it without abusing all caps, ellipses, and exclamation marks to a point of absurdity.
I DON'T want you guys to think I don't appreciate your reviews. ANYONE who takes the time to read my book and talk about it online is AWESOME, whether they 1 star me or 5 star me. I seriously mean that. Sure, I'd prefer good reviews. But even if my book wasn't for you, the fact that you took the time to read it instead of the other thousands of books out there is a truly amazing thing and I'm incredibly grateful for it.
But I *may* not comment on it, or "like" it or RT it--even when its a good review. OR, I *may* get brave some days and do any or all of those things and unknowingly breach author etiquette. Either way, please bear with me. Please know I'm just trying to muddle through this icky pool of murky awkward the best I can. And PLEASE don't take this post to be a plea for you to not review. Basically: you--as bloggers/readers/reviewers--should feel free to do what you do best and review as you see fit. Just ... please bear with this awkward Newbie who has NO IDEA how to handle any of this.
And... I've now rambled about this for WAY longer than I wanted to--and I'm pretty sure the grammar police is on their way to arrest me for my many abuses. Not to mention I've now used the word "awkward" more times than anyone probably ever has or ever will in a single blog post. So I'll just end with a great big sparkly:
For reading. For bearing with me. For just generally being awesome. And now...
*runs away before she can say "awkward" again*
GIANT TOWERS of KEEPER OF THE LOST CITIES ARCs were given away at BEA--along with a small batch of LET THE SKY FALL ARCs. And even more KEEPER ARCs will go out this weekend at ALA. And then the special mailings will begin...
All of which is SUPER exciting.
But it's also... awkward. Really awkward . Because all those books are Advance READER/REVIEWER Copies. And reviews put me in a rather sticky situation.
See ... here's the thing:
I DON'T expect everyone to love my books the way I do. I get it that some people won't like them--or that some will think they're good-not-great and give them mid-level rankings--or that even in a favorable review they might point out small quibbles with things in the interests of being fair. It's the nature of this business and I totally, totally get it.
HOWEVER ...
I'm not sure I want to SEE the negative reviews.
Especially since I kinda sorta *know* some of you--and while I would NEVER (seriously, NEVER) expect all of you to 5-Star my books if that's not genuinely how you feel about them, it might be a *little* awkward knowing what you really think. Seems like ignorance might be bliss in that area, yanno?
And that's just the tip of the iceberg. Then there's all the crazy Author Etiquette: Should I "like" good reviews--or does that look self serving? Do I comment on a review thanking the person--or will that make them uncomfortable? But will they think I'm rude if I don't thank them? But... will it look bad if I don't comment on or "like" a negative review?
I know those seem like small things, but we ALL know that Authors + Reviews x Twitter = one big giant pool of Drama.
So ... I've decided that I'm going to do my best to NOT read or respond to reviews. But ... that's awkward too!
See, I'm also a long time blogger, and I remember how excited I got when an author would stop by my blog and comment on my review (shoot, I STILL get excited when that happens). And I would love to be able to do that for others. But I don't know HOW to do that and not stumble across bad reviews that will make me want to throw my laptop off a bridge and flee to Mexico. Or how to not inadvertently breach some cardinal rule of online author etiquette and end up eyeball deep in faux pas.
Do you see my dilemma?
As if that weren't tricky enough, there's the RT factor. (Oh Twitter, it's a good thing I love you because you make everything so complicated). Again, I'm a blogger, so I KNOW how awesome it is when an author RTs about a contest or a review. BUT... I can't RT a link to something if I haven't checked the link first. And then there's the added challenge of balancing my Twitter feed, so it isn't all: ME ME ME, MY BOOKS MY BOOKS MY BOOKS, LIKE THEM, BUY THEM, SEE HOW MUCH EVERYONE LOVES THEM!!!!!!!!!!!!!! That gets old REAL quick.
So ... yeah. Like I said: IT'S AWKWARD. And I have a feeling I'm going to make a whole lot of mistakes as I muddle through these next few months. Which is why I wanted to write this post, even though I knew I'd never get through it without abusing all caps, ellipses, and exclamation marks to a point of absurdity.
I DON'T want you guys to think I don't appreciate your reviews. ANYONE who takes the time to read my book and talk about it online is AWESOME, whether they 1 star me or 5 star me. I seriously mean that. Sure, I'd prefer good reviews. But even if my book wasn't for you, the fact that you took the time to read it instead of the other thousands of books out there is a truly amazing thing and I'm incredibly grateful for it.
But I *may* not comment on it, or "like" it or RT it--even when its a good review. OR, I *may* get brave some days and do any or all of those things and unknowingly breach author etiquette. Either way, please bear with me. Please know I'm just trying to muddle through this icky pool of murky awkward the best I can. And PLEASE don't take this post to be a plea for you to not review. Basically: you--as bloggers/readers/reviewers--should feel free to do what you do best and review as you see fit. Just ... please bear with this awkward Newbie who has NO IDEA how to handle any of this.
And... I've now rambled about this for WAY longer than I wanted to--and I'm pretty sure the grammar police is on their way to arrest me for my many abuses. Not to mention I've now used the word "awkward" more times than anyone probably ever has or ever will in a single blog post. So I'll just end with a great big sparkly:
For reading. For bearing with me. For just generally being awesome. And now...
*runs away before she can say "awkward" again*
