Stephanie Faris's Blog
March 19, 2019
Explorer Academy: The Falcon’s Feather by Trudi Trueit
My author friend Trudi Trueit gets to go on so many adventures with her books. Her latest book, The Falcon's Feather, is part of National Geographic Kids' Explorer Academy series. I know I would have loved these books when I was a kid, wouldn't you? Scroll down to read all about it and buy your copy!
Blurb:
It's an adventure of a lifetime when Cruz Coronado sets sail for the shores of Iceland and Norway aboard the Explorer Academy ship to continue his studies at sea. But, things take a turn while exploring the icy north, when he embarks on a dangerous mission to uncover the first piece of an important puzzle his mother left behind.
In the exciting follow-up to The Nebula Secret in the 7-book Explorer Academy series, Cruz, Sailor, and Emmett, along with their new ally Bryndis, embark on their first globe-trotting mission aboard the ship Orion. Cruz jumps right back into school and starts using the latest technology in submersible underwater dives, but is soon reminded of the dangers of exploration when his equipment fails and he almost drowns. Determined to keep his eyes on the prize, Cruz sneaks away to try to find answers, but unknowingly lures his friends into bigger trouble. When a friend of Cruz's mom meets an untimely end, Cruz's luck really seems about to run out and the questions multiply. What does the message mean? Where will it lead? Who is following him? And why?
This captivating book is the sequel every Explorer Academy fan is waiting to read!
Buy Links:
Amazon | IndieBound
Bio:
Trudi Trueit writes the kinds of books she loved to read as a kid; stories packed with adventure, mystery, friendship, and hope; stories that reminds us to forge our own path and be our own hero! Her more than 100 titles include the EXPLORER ACADEMY series (National Geographic), MY TOP SECRET DARES & DON'TS, THE SISTER SOLUTION, STEALING POPULAR, and THE SECRETS OF A LAB RAT series (all Aladdin). And yes, Trudi Trueit IS her real name. Learn more about her and her books at her website: https://www.truditrueit.com/.
Blurb:
It's an adventure of a lifetime when Cruz Coronado sets sail for the shores of Iceland and Norway aboard the Explorer Academy ship to continue his studies at sea. But, things take a turn while exploring the icy north, when he embarks on a dangerous mission to uncover the first piece of an important puzzle his mother left behind.
In the exciting follow-up to The Nebula Secret in the 7-book Explorer Academy series, Cruz, Sailor, and Emmett, along with their new ally Bryndis, embark on their first globe-trotting mission aboard the ship Orion. Cruz jumps right back into school and starts using the latest technology in submersible underwater dives, but is soon reminded of the dangers of exploration when his equipment fails and he almost drowns. Determined to keep his eyes on the prize, Cruz sneaks away to try to find answers, but unknowingly lures his friends into bigger trouble. When a friend of Cruz's mom meets an untimely end, Cruz's luck really seems about to run out and the questions multiply. What does the message mean? Where will it lead? Who is following him? And why?
This captivating book is the sequel every Explorer Academy fan is waiting to read!
Buy Links:
Amazon | IndieBound
Bio:
Trudi Trueit writes the kinds of books she loved to read as a kid; stories packed with adventure, mystery, friendship, and hope; stories that reminds us to forge our own path and be our own hero! Her more than 100 titles include the EXPLORER ACADEMY series (National Geographic), MY TOP SECRET DARES & DON'TS, THE SISTER SOLUTION, STEALING POPULAR, and THE SECRETS OF A LAB RAT series (all Aladdin). And yes, Trudi Trueit IS her real name. Learn more about her and her books at her website: https://www.truditrueit.com/.
February 26, 2019
Introducing Writing for Kids: The Ultimate Guide by Marcia Thornton Jones and Debbie Dadey
I love when my author friends have new books out! Even better, when those author friends are so amazing and accomplished. Marcia Thornton Jones and Debbie Dadey together authored the best-selling Bailey School Kids series, which now has multiple generations saying, "I grew up reading those!" Their latest collaboration is a book to help YOU write the children's book you've always wanted to write. Even if you've already written one, you'll definitely learn from this book. Scroll down to read all about Writing for Kids: The Ultimate Guide and order your copy.
Blurb:
New from Marcia Thornton Jones and Debbie Dadey, authors of the BAILEY SCHOOL KIDS series, this truly is the ultimate guide to getting started on your career of writing for children.
Regular people write children’s books all the time. Marcia Thornton Jones and Debbie Dadey should know. They did it! They’ve traditionally published 171 books with over 43 million copies in print! WRITING FOR KIDS is everything they wished they’d known when they first started writing over twenty-five years ago.
Each section of this book targets a specific stage of the writing process. The first section, GETTING STARTED, introduces types of markets and focuses on generating ideas that resonate with kids. PLANNING THE PERFECT BOOK, targets effective writing skills and options for shaping your ideas. DEVELOPING IDEAS explains how to complete and market your book, as well as promoting both your work and yourself as a writer.
Buy Links:
Amazon
Bio:
Marcia Thornton Jones has been an elementary school teacher of First and Third grades, Computer Lab, Writing and Reading, and Gifted & Talented. She is the author of more than 131 titles, including the Bailey School Kids series and Ratfink. Read all about her books on her website: http://www.marciatjones.com/.
Debbie Dadey is an award-winning children’s book author who has written more than 150 books. She is best known for her series The Adventures of the Bailey School Kids, written with Marcia Thornton Jones. Debbie lives with her husband, three children, and three dogs in Sevierville, Tennessee. Learn more about Debbie on her website: https://www.debbiedadey.com/.
Blurb:
New from Marcia Thornton Jones and Debbie Dadey, authors of the BAILEY SCHOOL KIDS series, this truly is the ultimate guide to getting started on your career of writing for children.
Regular people write children’s books all the time. Marcia Thornton Jones and Debbie Dadey should know. They did it! They’ve traditionally published 171 books with over 43 million copies in print! WRITING FOR KIDS is everything they wished they’d known when they first started writing over twenty-five years ago.
Each section of this book targets a specific stage of the writing process. The first section, GETTING STARTED, introduces types of markets and focuses on generating ideas that resonate with kids. PLANNING THE PERFECT BOOK, targets effective writing skills and options for shaping your ideas. DEVELOPING IDEAS explains how to complete and market your book, as well as promoting both your work and yourself as a writer.
Buy Links:
Amazon
Bio:
Marcia Thornton Jones has been an elementary school teacher of First and Third grades, Computer Lab, Writing and Reading, and Gifted & Talented. She is the author of more than 131 titles, including the Bailey School Kids series and Ratfink. Read all about her books on her website: http://www.marciatjones.com/.
Debbie Dadey is an award-winning children’s book author who has written more than 150 books. She is best known for her series The Adventures of the Bailey School Kids, written with Marcia Thornton Jones. Debbie lives with her husband, three children, and three dogs in Sevierville, Tennessee. Learn more about Debbie on her website: https://www.debbiedadey.com/.
February 12, 2019
Introducing The Carnival of Wishes & Dreams by Jenny Lundquist
I've been reading Jenny Lundquist's books since before I was even published...I think that makes me an official "fan!" Her latest book just screams summer. I think that's something we all could use a little of right now. Scroll down to read all about The Carnival of Wishes & Dreams and to buy your copy!
Blurb:
The small town of Clarkville has seen better days. Ever since the Cohen factory burned down a few years ago, jobs are scarce and unemployment is high. But each year for one night the Carnival of Wishes and Dreams comes to town and everyone gets to indulge in a little wonder and delight. And for three girls who each receive notes asking them to meet the anonymous sender at midnight at the Ferris Wheel, it’s an evening that promises to be truly magical.
Audrey McKinley can’t believe someone would ask her to ride the Ferris Wheel. Everyone in town knows she’s afraid of heights; the last time she rode the Ferris Wheel it ended with her having a panic attack. But ever since her dad lost his job after the Cohen factory burned down he’s been working too little. The carnival gives him a chance for some seasonal work, and she plans to spend the evening checking up on him and making sure he does his job. Maybe she’ll face her fears tonight, after all.
Grace Chang isn’t supposed to go to the carnival. It’s too close to the burned remains of the old Cohen factory—the place where her firefighter father lost his life. And they always rode the Ferris Wheel together, so that’s also something Grace isn’t supposed to do. But since her mom just announced they’ll be moving away from Clarkville the day after the carnival, Grace is sick of only doing things she’s supposed to do. She’ll be at the carnival. And she is definitely riding that Ferris Wheel.
Harlow Cohen is surprised anyone would want to ride the Ferris Wheel with her. Harlow used to be popular. But ever since her grandparents’ old factory burned down and so many people lost their jobs, many of the kids at school blame her—and her rich family—for their own parents’ worsening economic situations. Harlow can never resist a dare, but when a note arrives asking her to meet an anonymous person at the Ferris Wheel at midnight, she’s far from certain it will be a friend waiting for her.
Can these three girls put their differences aside long enough for their wishes to come true? And is it possible to save a friendship that once seemed lost for good?
Buy Links:
Amazon | IndieBound
Bio:
J
Jenny Lundquist is the author of The Charming Life of Izzy Malone, Seeing Cinderella, and Plastic Polly. She grew up in Huntington Beach, California, and earned a degree in Intercultural Studies at Biola University. Jenny has painted an orphanage in Mexico, taught English at a university in Russia, and hopes one day to write a book at a café in Paris. Jenny and her husband live in northern California with their two sons and Rambo, the world’s whiniest cat.
Blurb:
The small town of Clarkville has seen better days. Ever since the Cohen factory burned down a few years ago, jobs are scarce and unemployment is high. But each year for one night the Carnival of Wishes and Dreams comes to town and everyone gets to indulge in a little wonder and delight. And for three girls who each receive notes asking them to meet the anonymous sender at midnight at the Ferris Wheel, it’s an evening that promises to be truly magical.
Audrey McKinley can’t believe someone would ask her to ride the Ferris Wheel. Everyone in town knows she’s afraid of heights; the last time she rode the Ferris Wheel it ended with her having a panic attack. But ever since her dad lost his job after the Cohen factory burned down he’s been working too little. The carnival gives him a chance for some seasonal work, and she plans to spend the evening checking up on him and making sure he does his job. Maybe she’ll face her fears tonight, after all.
Grace Chang isn’t supposed to go to the carnival. It’s too close to the burned remains of the old Cohen factory—the place where her firefighter father lost his life. And they always rode the Ferris Wheel together, so that’s also something Grace isn’t supposed to do. But since her mom just announced they’ll be moving away from Clarkville the day after the carnival, Grace is sick of only doing things she’s supposed to do. She’ll be at the carnival. And she is definitely riding that Ferris Wheel.
Harlow Cohen is surprised anyone would want to ride the Ferris Wheel with her. Harlow used to be popular. But ever since her grandparents’ old factory burned down and so many people lost their jobs, many of the kids at school blame her—and her rich family—for their own parents’ worsening economic situations. Harlow can never resist a dare, but when a note arrives asking her to meet an anonymous person at the Ferris Wheel at midnight, she’s far from certain it will be a friend waiting for her.
Can these three girls put their differences aside long enough for their wishes to come true? And is it possible to save a friendship that once seemed lost for good?
Buy Links:
Amazon | IndieBound
Bio:
J
Jenny Lundquist is the author of The Charming Life of Izzy Malone, Seeing Cinderella, and Plastic Polly. She grew up in Huntington Beach, California, and earned a degree in Intercultural Studies at Biola University. Jenny has painted an orphanage in Mexico, taught English at a university in Russia, and hopes one day to write a book at a café in Paris. Jenny and her husband live in northern California with their two sons and Rambo, the world’s whiniest cat.
January 8, 2019
Introducing Cotton Candy Wishes by Kristina Springer
These Swirl books just jump off the shelves at you, and some of my favorite writer friends are writing them! That means I get to read them. The latest in this food-driven series is Cotton Candy Wishes, written by a writer whose books are always inspiring. Scroll down to read all about Cotton Candy Wishes and buy your copy!
Blurb:
Is achieving the social status of your dreams really all that sweet?
Taylor wishes she were popular. It's not like she doesn't have any friends, but when she tries to throw a giant cotton candy–themed birthday bash, it ends up a huge flop—no one shows up.
So when her dad gets a new job and they have to move, Taylor sees it as an opportunity to reinvent herself. As luck would have it, in the first week of her new school, she's partnered on a project with the queen bee of seventh grade herself, Elle. Soon, she's one of the popular crowd. She's even on her way to a date with the cutest boy in school! All her dreams are coming true!
But Taylor starts to learn that being with the in-crowd involves a lot of gossip and backstabbing—and she realizes that her favorite part of the day is actually hanging out with Colin, her nerdy math partner. However, Elle is not a fan of Colin—and ultimately, Taylor has to choose between them. Will she risk alienating Colin and his friends to maintain the social status she always wished for?
Buy Links:
Amazon | IndieBound
Bio:
Kristina Springer is the author of Cici Reno #MiddleSchoolMatchmaker (Sterling Children's); My Fake Boyfriend Is Better Than Yours (Macmillan/FSG), a Scholastic Book Club Bestseller and 2012 YALSA Quick Pick book; The Espressologist (Macmillan,/FSG), a 2010 Society of School Librarians International Honor Book and 2014 Illinois Reads Book that has been purchased for film by Michael Eisner's Vuguru; and Just Your Average Princess (Macmillan/FSG). She has a Masters in Writing from DePaul University and resides in a suburb of Chicago with her husband and children. Visit her at http://www.kristinaspringer.com/.
Blurb:
Is achieving the social status of your dreams really all that sweet?
Taylor wishes she were popular. It's not like she doesn't have any friends, but when she tries to throw a giant cotton candy–themed birthday bash, it ends up a huge flop—no one shows up.
So when her dad gets a new job and they have to move, Taylor sees it as an opportunity to reinvent herself. As luck would have it, in the first week of her new school, she's partnered on a project with the queen bee of seventh grade herself, Elle. Soon, she's one of the popular crowd. She's even on her way to a date with the cutest boy in school! All her dreams are coming true!
But Taylor starts to learn that being with the in-crowd involves a lot of gossip and backstabbing—and she realizes that her favorite part of the day is actually hanging out with Colin, her nerdy math partner. However, Elle is not a fan of Colin—and ultimately, Taylor has to choose between them. Will she risk alienating Colin and his friends to maintain the social status she always wished for?
Buy Links:
Amazon | IndieBound
Bio:
Kristina Springer is the author of Cici Reno #MiddleSchoolMatchmaker (Sterling Children's); My Fake Boyfriend Is Better Than Yours (Macmillan/FSG), a Scholastic Book Club Bestseller and 2012 YALSA Quick Pick book; The Espressologist (Macmillan,/FSG), a 2010 Society of School Librarians International Honor Book and 2014 Illinois Reads Book that has been purchased for film by Michael Eisner's Vuguru; and Just Your Average Princess (Macmillan/FSG). She has a Masters in Writing from DePaul University and resides in a suburb of Chicago with her husband and children. Visit her at http://www.kristinaspringer.com/.
December 18, 2018
Introducing Ellie Mae on President’s Day and Ellie Mae on April Fool’s Day by Hillary Homzie
President's Day and April Fool's Day are both just around the corner...and you have the chance to get two fun chapter books for the 6- to 9-year-olds in your life. Scroll down to read all about Hillary Homzie's Ellie Mae on April Fool's Day and Ellie Mae on President's Day...and to buy your copies!
Blurbs:
Ellie Mae on President's Day
Just how far will Ellie May go to be chosen as class flag leader during the exciting week leading up to Presidents' Day?
Quirky and funny, second-grader Ellie May enjoys learning about US presidents. But she absolutely loves the idea of being class flag leader during the week before Presidents' Day. Tired of not being chosen to hold the flag, she makes it her mission to finally get picked. Along the way, Ellie May ends up karate chopping the class plant when she tries to determine whether George Washington actually chopped down that cherry tree. Next she takes apart the class pencil sharpener when she learns that Abraham Lincoln liked learning how gadgets work. Ellie May may not be perfect like Miss-Know-it-All Ava or calm like her best friend Lizzy, but she's good-hearted and eventually realizes that honesty and patience go a long way.
Buy Links:
Amazon | IndieBound
Ellie Mae on April Fool's Day
How far will Ellie May go for a laugh--and a little revenge--when her class is allowed to celebrate April Fools' Day?
Quirky and funny second grader Ellie May can't believe her class is allowed to celebrate April Fools' Day--so long as it's done in good fun. She absolutely loves the idea of targeting a certain someone--the practically perfect Ava. Practicing on her parents and sisters, Ellie May begins to brainstorm harmless pranks. Soon enough, good intentions turn the classroom and her home upside-down when fake ants, trick tape, and hidden surprises don't go as planned. Ellie May may not be perfect like Miss-Know-it-All Ava, or calm and rational like her best friend Lizzy, but she's good-hearted and eventually realizes that the best trick is to make friends genuinely laugh--at no one's expense.
Buy Links:
Amazon | IndieBound
Bio:
Hillary is the author of chapter books, including the new Ellie May series (Charlesbridge), as well as contemporary middle grade novels. Her novels set in middle school include Apple Pie Promises (Sky Pony Press), Pumpkin Spice Secrets, Queen of Likes (Simon & Schuster/M!X), a PJOurWay selection https://pjourway.org/story-central/qu..., The Hot List (Simon & Schuster/M!X) and Things Are Gonna Get Ugly (Simon & Schuster/M!X. She is also the author of the humorous chapter book series, Alien Clones From Outer Space (Simon & Schuster/Aladdin), a Children’s Book-of-the-Month selection and listed as one of the 30 recommended funny books for kids in The Children’s Literature Lover’s Book of Lists by Joanna Sullivan Ed.D. Suppertime Entertainment (the creators of the twice Emmy-nominated Todd World) and Telescreen (Lizzie McGuire) developed the books to become an animated television series. She lives in Napa, California, with her family. You can visit her website at https://www.hillaryhomzie.com/.
Blurbs:
Ellie Mae on President's Day
Just how far will Ellie May go to be chosen as class flag leader during the exciting week leading up to Presidents' Day?
Quirky and funny, second-grader Ellie May enjoys learning about US presidents. But she absolutely loves the idea of being class flag leader during the week before Presidents' Day. Tired of not being chosen to hold the flag, she makes it her mission to finally get picked. Along the way, Ellie May ends up karate chopping the class plant when she tries to determine whether George Washington actually chopped down that cherry tree. Next she takes apart the class pencil sharpener when she learns that Abraham Lincoln liked learning how gadgets work. Ellie May may not be perfect like Miss-Know-it-All Ava or calm like her best friend Lizzy, but she's good-hearted and eventually realizes that honesty and patience go a long way.
Buy Links:
Amazon | IndieBound
Ellie Mae on April Fool's Day
How far will Ellie May go for a laugh--and a little revenge--when her class is allowed to celebrate April Fools' Day?
Quirky and funny second grader Ellie May can't believe her class is allowed to celebrate April Fools' Day--so long as it's done in good fun. She absolutely loves the idea of targeting a certain someone--the practically perfect Ava. Practicing on her parents and sisters, Ellie May begins to brainstorm harmless pranks. Soon enough, good intentions turn the classroom and her home upside-down when fake ants, trick tape, and hidden surprises don't go as planned. Ellie May may not be perfect like Miss-Know-it-All Ava, or calm and rational like her best friend Lizzy, but she's good-hearted and eventually realizes that the best trick is to make friends genuinely laugh--at no one's expense.
Buy Links:
Amazon | IndieBound
Bio:
Hillary is the author of chapter books, including the new Ellie May series (Charlesbridge), as well as contemporary middle grade novels. Her novels set in middle school include Apple Pie Promises (Sky Pony Press), Pumpkin Spice Secrets, Queen of Likes (Simon & Schuster/M!X), a PJOurWay selection https://pjourway.org/story-central/qu..., The Hot List (Simon & Schuster/M!X) and Things Are Gonna Get Ugly (Simon & Schuster/M!X. She is also the author of the humorous chapter book series, Alien Clones From Outer Space (Simon & Schuster/Aladdin), a Children’s Book-of-the-Month selection and listed as one of the 30 recommended funny books for kids in The Children’s Literature Lover’s Book of Lists by Joanna Sullivan Ed.D. Suppertime Entertainment (the creators of the twice Emmy-nominated Todd World) and Telescreen (Lizzie McGuire) developed the books to become an animated television series. She lives in Napa, California, with her family. You can visit her website at https://www.hillaryhomzie.com/.
December 11, 2018
Introducing Beep and Bob 4 by Jonathan Roth
If you're looking for the perfect gift for the elementary school-aged child in your life, check out Jonathan Roth's Beep and Bob series. Today, the latest book in the series releases, and it has Beep and Bob cloning themselves during the school science fair! Scroll down to read all about it and buy your copy.
Blurb:
Beep and Bob accidentally clone themselves for the school science fair in this fourth book in the hilarious, action-packed Beep and Bob series!
What’s twice as fun as Beep and Bob? Two Beeps and Bobs!
While up too late working on his science fair project, Bob accidentally points a duplication ray at Beep. To his shock, another Beep appears! Beep decides the more, the better, so he points the ray at Bob and PRESTO: it’s Bob 2 (or Backwards Bob).
At first Bob thinks their clones are creepy, but it doesn’t take long to realize that having duplicates comes with perks: they can sleep in while their clones go to class!
Then the real Beep and Bob discover a hitch: the Beep and Bob clones are EVIL, and are planning to duplicate an EVIL Earth to rule! How will they possibly get themselves (and themselves!) out of this one?
Buy Links:
Amazon | IndieBound
Bio:
Author-illustrator Jonathan Roth is a public elementary school art teacher in Maryland who likes reading, writing, drawing, cycling, and napping. Though he has never left Earth, he has met four of the astronauts who have gone to the moon. Beep and Bob is his first series. You can visit his website at beepandbob.com.
Blurb:
Beep and Bob accidentally clone themselves for the school science fair in this fourth book in the hilarious, action-packed Beep and Bob series!
What’s twice as fun as Beep and Bob? Two Beeps and Bobs!
While up too late working on his science fair project, Bob accidentally points a duplication ray at Beep. To his shock, another Beep appears! Beep decides the more, the better, so he points the ray at Bob and PRESTO: it’s Bob 2 (or Backwards Bob).
At first Bob thinks their clones are creepy, but it doesn’t take long to realize that having duplicates comes with perks: they can sleep in while their clones go to class!
Then the real Beep and Bob discover a hitch: the Beep and Bob clones are EVIL, and are planning to duplicate an EVIL Earth to rule! How will they possibly get themselves (and themselves!) out of this one?
Buy Links:
Amazon | IndieBound
Bio:
Author-illustrator Jonathan Roth is a public elementary school art teacher in Maryland who likes reading, writing, drawing, cycling, and napping. Though he has never left Earth, he has met four of the astronauts who have gone to the moon. Beep and Bob is his first series. You can visit his website at beepandbob.com.
November 6, 2018
Pies from Nowhere by Dee Romito
Can there be any better way to learn history than through a beautiful picture book? My friend Dee Romito brings a very important historical event to life in Pies from Nowhere: How Georgia Gilmore Sustained the Montgomery Bus Boycott. Georgia Gilmore was an important figure in the Civil Rights movement, and now we get to see her story with Dee's beautiful prose and illustrator Laura Freeman's vivid illustrations. Scroll down to read all about this new picture book and to buy your own copy.
Blurb:
This stunning picture book looks into the life of Georgia Gilmore, a hidden figure of history who played a critical role in the civil rights movement and used her passion for baking to help the Montgomery Bus Boycott achieve its goal.
Georgia decided to help the best way she knew how.
She worked together with a group of women and together they purchased the supplies they needed-bread, lettuce, and chickens. And off they went to cook.
The women brought food to the mass meetings that followed at the church. They sold sandwiches. They sold dinners in their neighborhoods.
As the boycotters walked and walked, Georgia cooked and cooked.
Georgia Gilmore was a cook at the National Lunch Company in Montgomery, Alabama. When the bus boycotts broke out in Montgomery after Rosa Parks was arrested, Georgia knew just what to do. She organized a group of women who cooked and baked to fund-raise for gas and cars to help sustain the boycott. Called the Club from Nowhere, Georgia was the only person who knew who baked and bought the food, and she said the money came from "nowhere" to anyone who asked. When Martin Luther King Jr. was arrested for his role in the boycott, Georgia testified on his behalf, and her home became a meeting place for civil rights leaders. This picture book highlights a hidden figure of the civil rights movement who fueled the bus boycotts and demonstrated that one person can make a real change in her community and beyond. It also includes one of her delicious recipes for kids to try with the help of their parents!
Buy Links:
Amazon | Barnes & Noble
Bio:
Dee Romito is an author and former elementary teacher. Her middle grade books include THE BFF BUCKET LIST, NO PLACE LIKE HOME, POSTCARDS FROM VENICE, and co-authored BEST. NIGHT. EVER. She blogs about writing at WriteforApples.com and is Co-Advisor of Buffalo-Niagara Children's Writers and Illustrators. While she does her best to be a grown-up most of the time, giggling with her BFFs is still one of her all-time favorite things. You can visit her website at DeeRomito.com.
Originally from New York City, Laura Freeman lives in Atlanta with her husband and their two children. She received her BFA from the School of Visual Arts and began her career working for various editorial clients. She has illustrated over twenty children's books, including Hidden Figures written by Margot Lee Shetterly, the Nikki & Deja series by Karen English and Fancy Party Gowns by Deborah Blumenthal. In addition to illustrating books and editorial content, her art can be found on a wide range of products, from dishes and textiles to greeting cards. Visit Laura's website at lfreemanart.com.
Blurb:
This stunning picture book looks into the life of Georgia Gilmore, a hidden figure of history who played a critical role in the civil rights movement and used her passion for baking to help the Montgomery Bus Boycott achieve its goal.
Georgia decided to help the best way she knew how.
She worked together with a group of women and together they purchased the supplies they needed-bread, lettuce, and chickens. And off they went to cook.
The women brought food to the mass meetings that followed at the church. They sold sandwiches. They sold dinners in their neighborhoods.
As the boycotters walked and walked, Georgia cooked and cooked.
Georgia Gilmore was a cook at the National Lunch Company in Montgomery, Alabama. When the bus boycotts broke out in Montgomery after Rosa Parks was arrested, Georgia knew just what to do. She organized a group of women who cooked and baked to fund-raise for gas and cars to help sustain the boycott. Called the Club from Nowhere, Georgia was the only person who knew who baked and bought the food, and she said the money came from "nowhere" to anyone who asked. When Martin Luther King Jr. was arrested for his role in the boycott, Georgia testified on his behalf, and her home became a meeting place for civil rights leaders. This picture book highlights a hidden figure of the civil rights movement who fueled the bus boycotts and demonstrated that one person can make a real change in her community and beyond. It also includes one of her delicious recipes for kids to try with the help of their parents!
Buy Links:
Amazon | Barnes & Noble
Bio:
Dee Romito is an author and former elementary teacher. Her middle grade books include THE BFF BUCKET LIST, NO PLACE LIKE HOME, POSTCARDS FROM VENICE, and co-authored BEST. NIGHT. EVER. She blogs about writing at WriteforApples.com and is Co-Advisor of Buffalo-Niagara Children's Writers and Illustrators. While she does her best to be a grown-up most of the time, giggling with her BFFs is still one of her all-time favorite things. You can visit her website at DeeRomito.com.
Originally from New York City, Laura Freeman lives in Atlanta with her husband and their two children. She received her BFA from the School of Visual Arts and began her career working for various editorial clients. She has illustrated over twenty children's books, including Hidden Figures written by Margot Lee Shetterly, the Nikki & Deja series by Karen English and Fancy Party Gowns by Deborah Blumenthal. In addition to illustrating books and editorial content, her art can be found on a wide range of products, from dishes and textiles to greeting cards. Visit Laura's website at lfreemanart.com.
October 2, 2018
Introducing The Seven Torments of Amy and Craig: A Love Story by Don Zolidis
There's nothing as exciting as seeing your book on shelves for the first time--even if you're an acclaimed playwright. Don Zolidis has published 97 plays which have been produced over 10,500 times in 61 countries. But today is the day he gets his first book in print everywhere. And it looks like a must read! Scroll down to read all about The Seven Torments of Amy and Craig (A Love Story).
Blurb:
Janesville, Wisconsin (cold in the sense that there is no God) 1994.
The worst thing that's ever happened to Craig is also the best: Amy. Amy and Craig never should've gotten together. Craig is an awkward, Dungeons & Dragons-playing geek, and Amy is the beautiful, fiercely intelligent student-body president of their high school.
Yet somehow they did?until Amy dumped him. Then got back together with him. Then dumped him again. Then got back together with him again. Over and over and over.
Unfolding during their senior year, Amy and Craig's exhilarating, tumultuous relationship is a kaleidoscope of joy, pain, and laughter as an uncertain future-and adult responsibility-loom on the horizon.
Craig fights for his dream of escaping Janesville and finding his place at a quirky college, while Amy's quest to uncover her true self sometimes involves being Craig's girlfriend?and sometimes doesn't.
Seven heartbreaks. Seven joys.Told nonsequentially, acclaimed playwright Don Zolidis's debut novel is a brutally funny, bittersweet taste of the utterly unique and utterly universal experience of first love.
Buy Links:
Amazon | IndieBound
Bio:
Don Zolidis grew up in Wisconsin, went to college in Minnesota, and is mostly known for being a really funny playwright. For the past five years, he's been the most-produced playwright in American schools. His more than one hundred published plays have been performed tens of thousands of times, and have appeared in sixty-four different countries. He currently splits his time between New York and Texas, and has two adorable boys who will someday read this book and have a lot of questions. He aspires to owning a dog. The Seven Torments of Amy and Craig is his first novel. He's hard at work on the next one. Visit Don at http://www.donzolidis.com/.
Blurb:
Janesville, Wisconsin (cold in the sense that there is no God) 1994.
The worst thing that's ever happened to Craig is also the best: Amy. Amy and Craig never should've gotten together. Craig is an awkward, Dungeons & Dragons-playing geek, and Amy is the beautiful, fiercely intelligent student-body president of their high school.
Yet somehow they did?until Amy dumped him. Then got back together with him. Then dumped him again. Then got back together with him again. Over and over and over.
Unfolding during their senior year, Amy and Craig's exhilarating, tumultuous relationship is a kaleidoscope of joy, pain, and laughter as an uncertain future-and adult responsibility-loom on the horizon.
Craig fights for his dream of escaping Janesville and finding his place at a quirky college, while Amy's quest to uncover her true self sometimes involves being Craig's girlfriend?and sometimes doesn't.
Seven heartbreaks. Seven joys.Told nonsequentially, acclaimed playwright Don Zolidis's debut novel is a brutally funny, bittersweet taste of the utterly unique and utterly universal experience of first love.
Buy Links:
Amazon | IndieBound
Bio:
Don Zolidis grew up in Wisconsin, went to college in Minnesota, and is mostly known for being a really funny playwright. For the past five years, he's been the most-produced playwright in American schools. His more than one hundred published plays have been performed tens of thousands of times, and have appeared in sixty-four different countries. He currently splits his time between New York and Texas, and has two adorable boys who will someday read this book and have a lot of questions. He aspires to owning a dog. The Seven Torments of Amy and Craig is his first novel. He's hard at work on the next one. Visit Don at http://www.donzolidis.com/.
September 26, 2018
Halloween Ride Guest Post
I'm so excited to welcome Sammy and Gregory to my blog today. Who are Sammy and Gregory? They are the fun main characters in Elaine Kaye's latest picture book, Halloween Ride: A Gregory Green Adventure. Today, Sammy is interviewing Gregory about Halloween. Scroll down after the interview to read all about the book and buy your copy!
Sammy: What’s your favorite holiday?
Gregory: Halloween! I love dressing up, getting LOTS and LOTS of candy, and scaring you.
Sammy: Me?
Gregory: Yeah, you. You scare easily.
Sammy: So, do you. And let’s not get into all that again.
Sammy: You looked really cool in your pirate costume. When can we hunt for treasure?
Gregory: We can go as soon as this interview is done!
Sammy: Okay, it’s done!
Gregory: No, Elaine Kaye wouldn’t be happy with us if we quit now.
Sammy: Right. And we should make the author happy. Okay, so when we saw the broom and got on it, did you think you’d have to fly it yourself? You’re many years away from getting your learner’s permit, and there wasn’t even a steering wheel!
Gregory: I didn’t think it would be too hard.
Sammy: Well, it’s a good thing it could fly on its own. *snickers*
Gregory: Hey!
*Sammy laughs harder*
Sammy: We all know you love pea soup. Do you really think that was pea soup in the witch’s pot?
*Gregory shivers* Gregory: I sure hope not!
Sammy: It smelled like pea soup.
Gregory: And looked like pea soup.
Sammy: Until she added her secret ingredient.
*Both boys stick out their tongues in disgust*
Gregory: That’s one soup I’ll never try!
NEW RELEASE:
BLURB: One Halloween night, Gregory and his teddy bear Sammy go trick-or-treating, hoping for lots and lots of candy. But Sammy is scared of everything and is constantly asking, “What’s that?” Gregory gets annoyed until one of those things turns out to be a flying broomstick. And this broom wants them to go for a ride. Where will it take them?
*Story picture book Ages 4-8.
EBOOK 99 CENTS:Amazon / Nook / Kobo
Print:Amazon
ALSO ON SALE FOR 99 CENTS!
Pea Soup Disaster: Amazon / Nook / Kobo
Doctor Mom: Amazon / Nook / Kobo
ABOUT THE AUTHOR:
Elaine Kaye is the author of A Gregory Green Adventure series. She first created Gregory Green after her son, who loved her homemade pea soup.Kaye has worked as a library assistant and teacher's assistant in elementary schools in the Sunshine State. She currently lives in Florida, but she has called Michigan; Honolulu, Hawaii; and Okinawa, Japan home.She is a grandmother of three boys.
Website / Goodreads / Amazon / Instagram / Facebook
GIVEAWAY:
Enter here to win a signed paperback copy of Pea Soup Disaster, a hand-stitched bookmark, and a pea pod key chain! Open to all from September 16, 2018 – October 1, 2018!
a Rafflecopter giveaway
Sammy: What’s your favorite holiday?
Gregory: Halloween! I love dressing up, getting LOTS and LOTS of candy, and scaring you.
Sammy: Me?
Gregory: Yeah, you. You scare easily.
Sammy: So, do you. And let’s not get into all that again.
Sammy: You looked really cool in your pirate costume. When can we hunt for treasure?
Gregory: We can go as soon as this interview is done!
Sammy: Okay, it’s done!
Gregory: No, Elaine Kaye wouldn’t be happy with us if we quit now.
Sammy: Right. And we should make the author happy. Okay, so when we saw the broom and got on it, did you think you’d have to fly it yourself? You’re many years away from getting your learner’s permit, and there wasn’t even a steering wheel!
Gregory: I didn’t think it would be too hard.
Sammy: Well, it’s a good thing it could fly on its own. *snickers*
Gregory: Hey!
*Sammy laughs harder*
Sammy: We all know you love pea soup. Do you really think that was pea soup in the witch’s pot?
*Gregory shivers* Gregory: I sure hope not!
Sammy: It smelled like pea soup.
Gregory: And looked like pea soup.
Sammy: Until she added her secret ingredient.
*Both boys stick out their tongues in disgust*
Gregory: That’s one soup I’ll never try!
NEW RELEASE:
BLURB: One Halloween night, Gregory and his teddy bear Sammy go trick-or-treating, hoping for lots and lots of candy. But Sammy is scared of everything and is constantly asking, “What’s that?” Gregory gets annoyed until one of those things turns out to be a flying broomstick. And this broom wants them to go for a ride. Where will it take them? *Story picture book Ages 4-8.
EBOOK 99 CENTS:Amazon / Nook / Kobo
Print:Amazon
ALSO ON SALE FOR 99 CENTS!
Pea Soup Disaster: Amazon / Nook / Kobo
Doctor Mom: Amazon / Nook / Kobo
ABOUT THE AUTHOR:
Elaine Kaye is the author of A Gregory Green Adventure series. She first created Gregory Green after her son, who loved her homemade pea soup.Kaye has worked as a library assistant and teacher's assistant in elementary schools in the Sunshine State. She currently lives in Florida, but she has called Michigan; Honolulu, Hawaii; and Okinawa, Japan home.She is a grandmother of three boys.Website / Goodreads / Amazon / Instagram / Facebook
GIVEAWAY:
Enter here to win a signed paperback copy of Pea Soup Disaster, a hand-stitched bookmark, and a pea pod key chain! Open to all from September 16, 2018 – October 1, 2018!
a Rafflecopter giveaway
September 18, 2018
Friday Night Stage Lights by Rachele Alpine
Rachele is my publishing sister times three. We have the same agent, same publisher, and same editor! So the fact that I love all her books is a bonus. Today she has a new book out that I can't wait to download to my Kindle. Scroll down to read all about Friday Night Stage Lights and buy your copy!
Blurb:
The Cutting Edge meets Step Up in this hilarious M!X novel where the worlds of football and ballet collide.
Brooklyn Gartner eats, sleeps, and breathes ballet. But after her mom gets remarried and moves them to Texas, everything changes. Thanks to her star football player stepbrother, her family is football obsessed. And thanks to a new conditioning program, the middle school football team starts to take classes at her dance studio—the only place Brooklyn felt like she belonged.
She has a chance to escape if she can get into her dream high school, The Texas School of the Arts, where she’ll be able to pursue her passion for dance. Brooklyn just has to get through the big All-City showcase first, where a ton of scouts will be there, including one from TSOTA.
But when Brooklyn’s dance partner gets injured, she has to turn to an unexpected ally—Logan, a boy on the middle school football team—to help her get through the showcase. With some fancy footwork, teamwork and a little understanding, can Brooklyn make her mark, and dance her way onto a bigger stage?
Buy Links:
Amazon | IndieBound
Bio:
One of Rachele Alpine’s first jobs was at a library, but it didn’t last long, because all she did was hide in the third-floor stacks and read. Now she’s a little more careful about when and where she indulges her reading habit. Rachele is a high school English teacher by day, a wife and mother by night, and a writer during any time she can find in between. She lives in Cleveland, Ohio where she writes middle grade and young adult novels. Visit her at RacheleAlpine.com.
Blurb:
The Cutting Edge meets Step Up in this hilarious M!X novel where the worlds of football and ballet collide.
Brooklyn Gartner eats, sleeps, and breathes ballet. But after her mom gets remarried and moves them to Texas, everything changes. Thanks to her star football player stepbrother, her family is football obsessed. And thanks to a new conditioning program, the middle school football team starts to take classes at her dance studio—the only place Brooklyn felt like she belonged.
She has a chance to escape if she can get into her dream high school, The Texas School of the Arts, where she’ll be able to pursue her passion for dance. Brooklyn just has to get through the big All-City showcase first, where a ton of scouts will be there, including one from TSOTA.
But when Brooklyn’s dance partner gets injured, she has to turn to an unexpected ally—Logan, a boy on the middle school football team—to help her get through the showcase. With some fancy footwork, teamwork and a little understanding, can Brooklyn make her mark, and dance her way onto a bigger stage?
Buy Links:
Amazon | IndieBound
Bio:
One of Rachele Alpine’s first jobs was at a library, but it didn’t last long, because all she did was hide in the third-floor stacks and read. Now she’s a little more careful about when and where she indulges her reading habit. Rachele is a high school English teacher by day, a wife and mother by night, and a writer during any time she can find in between. She lives in Cleveland, Ohio where she writes middle grade and young adult novels. Visit her at RacheleAlpine.com.
