Meglena Ivanova's Blog, page 9
October 16, 2014
A MOMENT TO SHARE with Avraham Anouchi
Avraham Anouchi is an author, engineer, inventor, and entrepreneur. He grew up in Israel dreaming of studying engineering at the Technion Institute of Technology in Haifa. He earned his engineering degrees in the United States, but left his heart in Haifa. He is a former Vice President in United Technologies Corporation. He is now the president and founder of a high technology engineering company.
The dream was shattered when the 1948 War of Independence broke out before he finished High School. After the war he earned his engineering degrees in the United States, but left his heart in Haifa. His career led him to become a Vice President in United Technologies Corporation. He is now the president and founder of an engineering company.
After publishing numerous professional articles in English and historical ones in Hebrew, Avraham published four books: The Legacy - a memoir in English, Igeret Hamassoret – a memoir in Hebrew, The Hidden Scroll - a historical and archaeological novel, and From Timna to Mars – a fictional novel based on a real potential crisis for all humans on Earth, the depletion of rare earth metals.
Avraham Anouchi
Hi Avraham, thank you for agreeing to this interview.
Tell me a little about yourself and your background? What were you like at school?
Were you good at English? What are your ambitions for your writing career?
I always wanted to be an engineer and I succeeded in attaining my objective. I am not a native American. I started learning English in my fifth grade.
Which writers inspire you?
Daniel Silva, Herman Wouk, Viktor Hugo, Don Isaac Abravanel.
What was your life like before becoming an author?
I grew up in Haifa, Israel. My most important memory is my singing in a synagogue children choir. I dreamt of growing up to be a “Chazan” who chants solo. Although I was devastated when my voice changed and I had to leave the choir, I carry with me a repertoire of synagogue melodies and many songs I learned later in Hebrew, French, English and Ladino. I never stopped singing and even sang in a Pittsburgh Hebrew choir. I was fortunate to attend an elementary school which taught me four languages. I was fascinated by the complexity of chess. It turned out to be my best teacher on how to consider consequences of my decisions in life.
Which comes first – the character’s story or the idea for the novel?
The idea of a novel. :)
When did you decide to become a writer?
After I translated my Hebrew book to English.
Why do you write?
My father’s translation of novels from French to Hebrew inspired me to wish I could inherit his skill, but my profession in the United States limited my writing to technical articles in English. After my first memoir in Hebrew was published in 2000, I decided to translate it to English as a booklet for my grandchildren who grew up in Cleveland. Several years later, I joined an internet workshop of authors who edit each others chapters. When three writers recognized me as not a native American, they labored in assisting me and managed to elevate my writing skill from that of a novice to a level which enabled me to published my third book.
So, what have you written?
“Igeret Hamassoret”, a memoir in Hebrew.
“The Legacy”, a memoir in English.
“The Hidden Scroll“, a historical novel.
“From Timna to Mars“, a space mission thriller.
Where people can buy or see them?
Amazon.com, http://www.Amazon.co.uk, Barnes and Noble, http://www.AnouchiBooks.com, all English speaking countries.
What sparked the idea for your book?
The idea of writing a novel on space missions in search of rare-earth metals was an unexpected one. After the publication of The Hidden Scroll, my archaeological and historical novel, I was writing another historical novel when two articles attracted my attention. One was on the forecasted depletion of special metals designated as rare-earth elements. The other was on the potential of space mining. Engrossed with a new idea, I placed the first ten chapters of my yet-to-be-written historical creation in a bottom drawer of my desk and started to gather material for a new fictional work about searching for rare elements on an asteroid or a planet.
In 2011, the Pentagon issued an alarming report spotlighting the military dependence on rare-earth metals. It included a section on a potential Achilles’s heel for the US military’s reliance on rare earths used in manufacturing weapons. It highlighted high-end weapons, such as precision-guided bombs, advanced fighter aircraft, night-vision goggles, and targeting lasers, which depend on components built with rhenium, neodymium, europium, ruthenium, and other rare-earth metals. It even addressed nonmilitary threats to oil refineries and consumer technologies found in everything from smart phones to hybrid-car batteries.
The report stated that China has achieved an almost-complete monopoly on processing rare-earth oxides by producing more than 90 percent of the world’s needs. When the Chinese placed export quotas on rare-earth metals and oxides, the Pentagon expressed its concern about the potential supply interruptions. It urged the president and the Congress to allocate the funding to encourage United States–based companies to construct facilities for processing rare-earth oxides in the United States.
The seventeen elements include some that are so critical that it would be hard to imagine what the twenty-first century would be without them.
How do you market your book?
I use Elite Book Promotions.
Do you have any advice for other authors on how to market their books? What do you do to get book reviews?
Goodreads is a good way to find people who would be happy to review new books.
Giveaways help too.
Is there anything else you would like to add that I haven’t included?
How can readers discover more about you and your work?
Twitter handle: https://twitter.com/AviYoel
Facebook page: https://www.facebook.com/avraham.anouchi?sk=info&edit=eduwork
Goodreads author page: https://www.goodreads.com/GoodreadscomAvrahamAnouchi
Amazon link: AuthorCentral
Book Tour Schedule: http://www.elitebookpromotions.com/book-tours/
It was a great privilege for me to get to interview Avraham Anouchi, who has inspired me in many different ways. Thank you Avraham!!! Good Luck with everything! :)
October 9, 2014
A MOMENT TO SHARE with David Clive Price
Somewhere deep inside, we all have a longing to make things – be they drawings, music, hand-knit sweaters, loaves of bread or writing. David Clive Price is AN AWARD-WINNING EXPERT THAT CAN RADICALLY TRANSFORM YOUR BUSINESS. 25 years’ experience, a dozen Asian cultures, and fluency in four languages prove David Clive Price is not only an industry expert but also a well sought out adviser, respected negotiator, and influential speaker to a myriad of global corporations. David is the author of an academic book on the English Renaissance, the amazing novels – Alphabet City and Chinese Walls, several travel books on Japan, Hong Kong, the Forbidden City, Buddhism in Asia, rural Italy, India and South Korea, a book on the Food of Korea, many international magazine articles on travel in Asia and two more novels that are awaiting publication.
David Clive Price
Hi David, thank you for agreeing to this interview.
Tell me a little about yourself and your background? What were you like at school? Were you good at English? What are your ambitions for your writing career?
I was born in south London and remained in UK for my schooling, studied history and political thought at Cambridge University, sang in the college choir, did a PhD in Renaissance studies and then post-grad in Italy on a travel fellowship, skipped ship after a year and bought a farmhouse in Tuscany where I farmed wine and olives for several years before setting off for the Far East. I spent four years as chief speechwriter of a famous bank in Hong Kong during the handover of Hong Kong to China and then left to set up my own company and write more books. I divide my time between London and Hong Kong.
At school, I was very precocious, won the school cross-country, was awarded best actor prize, played Hamlet, sang in the choir and won a choral scholarship to Cambridge. I loved Eng Lit but studied history more to get scholarships. I read a lot and began to study languages. My ambitions to be a writer started at school and now I aim to be known as a novelist who really takes you places (the latest trilogy is called ‘Unexplored Territory’). I aim to attract a big publisher with third novel in the series, which is already half written. All books are set in Asia, except a novel set in 1980s New York.
Which writers inspire you?
I find myself in a unique position as an author (of business books too) that knows both East and West, and can interpret the ways of the East to Western readers. I admire E M Forster’s Passage to India in this regard. I am inspired by too many writers to list them.
What was your life like before becoming an author?
David Clive Price’s YouTube Chanel
It’s hard to remember because I’ve been writing books since I was 23 (and then I was studying). I guess I must have been very free and unscheduled/undisciplined once but I can’t remember it! I have a writer discipline in my blood since finishing my first degree and perhaps earlier.
Which comes first – the character’s story or the idea for the novel?
Usually the idea of a novel comes complete with the beginning of a central character and his/her big life challenges. If not, it’s very soon after the idea comes along.
When did you decide to become a writer?
I can’t remember a conscious decision, but probably around the age of 12/13 at school when I first suspected I might be gay.
Why do you write?
It makes me profoundly happy, especially perhaps a novel but also a travel book.
I can’t not write (if you see what I mean). I get grouchy if I am kept from writing for more than 2-3 months.
So, what have you written?
An academic book on the English Renaissance (still published by Cambridge UP).
A first novel, Alphabet City, and this novel Chinese Walls set in Hong Kong and London, with two more novels in the series written and awaiting publication.
Travel books on Japan, Hong Kong, the Forbidden City, Buddhism in Asia, rural Italy, India and now on South Korea.
A book on the Food of Korea, many international magazine articles on travel in Asia. My author/travel blog iswww.unexploredterritory.net.
Where people can buy or see them?
The best place is my Amazon author page:
http://www.amazon.com/David-Clive-Price/e/B001JX3SIS
David Clive Price’s Website
Also my author blog:
http://www.unexploredterritory.net
And Goodreads:
https://www.goodreads.com/author/dashboard
My Goodreads and Kindle giveaways for Chinese Walls are in process.
Give me an insight into your main character. What does he/she do that is so special?
He’s a high flyer in the corporate world who takes a punt on a love affair with a guy in another culture (HK Chinese), in his own company (taboo), and after being married for 25 years and fathering two children in the UK. He then attempts to kept this secret from his wife, children and above all employers while pursuing higher office.
What sparked the idea for your book?
David Clive Price’s Facebook Page
I lived at least a part of the story myself, not as a closet gay, but as a high-profile figure in a multinational bank. I was openly gay (just acted normally), but my character doesn’t and is more after the top jobs than I was.
It just came to me pine day while I was thinking that life in the corporate world was a bit like school, with plenty of bullies around. People were like children….
How do you market your book?
Giveways, video promotion, blog interviews, reviews, author blog, social media, FB adverts, speaking and reading events.
Do you have any advice for other authors on how to market their books? What do you do to get book reviews?
I find people like Misha Almira and you Meggie. I give away books physically at readings and events like a calling card and ask people to review. I give radio interviews. I tell influential contacts. In Hong Kong, I will use a PR agency whose owners are very old friends.
What advice do you have for someone who would like to become a published writer?
David Clive Price’s Twitter
Be absolutely sure you can take the long hours alone, and probably a lot of self-imposed loneliness too. Try to get a side/parallel job or interest that gets you out meeting people and sharing/giving. Otherwise, navel gazing sets in :-) You also need that outside experience for the books. The later work of many good writers goes dry and academic because they forget about the ‘pay dirt’ of adventure and the unfamiliar. They research but they don’t live it.
Is there anything else you would like to add that I haven’t included?
This is the first in the Unexplored Territory tetra-logy (four novels). The second is called Alphabet City and is set in early 1980s New York (Avenues A-Z).
How can readers discover more about you and your work?
Website: davidcliveprice.com
Blog: unexploredterritory.net
Facebook: facebook.com/davidcliveprice
Twitter: twitter.com/davidcliveprice
Pinterest:
http://www.pinterest.com/search/pins/?q=david+clive+price
Amazon Author Page:
http://www.amazon.com/David-Clive-Price/e/B001JX3SIS
Book Links: (* American, UK, etc.)
http://www.amazon.com/s/ref=nb_sb_noss_1?url=search-alias%3Dstripbooks&field-keywords=david+Clive+Price
http://www.amazon.co.uk/s/ref=nb_sb_noss_1?url=search-alias%3Dstripbooks&field-keywords=David+Clive+Price
Goodreads:
https://www.goodreads.com/author/show/617504.David_Clive_Price
It was a great privilege for me to get to interview David Clive Price, who has inspired me in many different ways. Thank you David!!! Good Luck with everything! :)
September 19, 2014
19th September: International Talk Like a Pirate Day!
Good morning, friends and fans of pirates! Today is the day for the Illustrious International Talk Like a Pirate Day! YAAARRR! :)So Pirates, the mystery of Blackbeards, hidden silver and golden treasures!
Ever since Dave Barry /humor columnist and author of Insane City/ mentioned the day talk like a pirate in his nationally syndicated newspaper column in 2002, what once was a goofy idea celebrated by a handful of friends has turned into an international phenomenon that shows no sign of letting up. Whether you be new to the notion, or one of the millions who’ve made it your own personal excuse to party like pirates every September 19th, is welcoming day for all of you hidden or not pirates looking for real or imagine treasures!
Talk Like A Pirate Day is an original concept created in a moment of temporary insanity by John Baur and Mark Summers. For more ideas and information of this most illustrious of holidays you can look at their website by clicking on any of their names. :)
This day is very special to me since I am going on vacation to one amazing place called Bermuda. I am so excited about this vacation, because Pirates Sunset Cruise Glass bottom boat is one of the shore excursions I am very excited to attend to. I would go also to the local library where I hope to find more stories about pirates and battles. Since I mentioned battles I would like to share the story of a battle between two pirate factions that happened near Bermuda. Hope you will enjoy it!
In late 1718, Blackbeard‘s sloop Adventure sailed near Bermuda where she captured several merchant ships. In the 1720s, a British merchant ship on which Robert Greene sailed was captured by La Vipère off the coast of Bermuda, and he was forced to join the rogue pirates of Christophe-Julien de Rapièr. A few years later, a battle between the two pirate factions occurred near Bermuda. The Battle off of Bermuda was a battle between the two pirate factions, one loyal to the Brethren Court, led by Hector Barbossa, and the other who violated the Code of the Pirate Brethren.
“We were sailin’ in waters north of Bermuda, on our way back from an encounter we’d had with a Frenchy barque. Took a nice haul, we did. Ivory. We were ridin’ low in the water, so laden we be.” ―Hector Barbossa[src]
Hector Barbossa’s ship, the schooner Cobra, was sailing in the waters north of Bermuda, back from a battle with the French barque, when the topman spied a sail on the horizon. Barbossa ordered his crew to change the course to take a look on this ship. After a few hours, the two ships approached each other. Barbossa’s crew raised the French flag, after which the mysterious ship raised the Dutch flag.
After seeing that the ship is a sloop, and that its crew isn’t dressed like merchantmen, Barbossa ordered his crew to raise his black pirate flag. The crew of the mysterious sloop responded to that by raising their own pirate colors, the red flag with the black demon skull on it.
“The moment we raised our true colors, that sloop, he run up his flag, too. A red flag, with a black demon skull on it. ’Twas then I knew for certain that he was another pirate. We all had a good laugh, me and me crew. We waved at ’em. They waved back. Then I gives the order to come about, to put our rudder to ’em. The Code calls for us all to respect our fellows on the account, and I was abiding by it.” ―Hector Barbossa[src]
Barbossa’s crew relaxed, seeing the they encountered one of their own, member of the Brethren Court. But suddenly, the mysterious pirate sloop opened fire on Barbossa’s ship.
The battle continued until the sunset, and Barbossa ordered his men to launch the boats. The Cobra was sinking fast, and half of his men were dead. Many of them were sucked down with the ship. Barbossa himself almost drowned in a futile attempt to save Polly, his little pet monkey, but he was saved and pulled into a boat in a last moment by the two of men, Pintel and Ragetti.
After the sinking of the Cobra, the mysterious pirate sloop sent out boats to kill Barbossa’s men in the water which were still alive. Those who weren’t killed by their enemies, they were eaten by the sharks.
Only the darkness saved Barbossa and his saviors, and they rowed until dawn, when there was no sign of the ship which caused their misery.
Barbossa and his men managed to reach a deserted island, where they built a signal fire. A week later they were saved by a pirate ship which was passing by. They were left in Tortuga, where they met Don Rafael, who transported them to Shipwreck Cove, where Barbossa informed captain Edward Teague, the Keeper of the Code, and his fellow Pirate Lords of this latest action of rogue pirates.
*** **** ****
Here are a couple of my favourite novels and movies that had captured the spirit of the pirates! Please let me know if you have read or watch any of them! :)
YA Piratical Novels:
Vampirates Justin Somper;
Pirates Celia Rees;
Blackbeard’s Pirates versus the Evil Mummies James Black;
Treasure Island Robert Louis Stevenson;
The Curse of Captain LaFoote Eddie Jones;
Airborn Kenneth Oppel.
Pirate Movies:
Cut Throat Island;
Pirates of the Caribbean;
Treasure Island;
Master and Commander: far Side of the World (not really pirates but amazing scenes of ship-based battle).
How did ye spend Talk Like A Pirate Day 2014?
Let me know, an’ I’ll tell the world! And don’t miss the photos! :)
September 8, 2014
A MOMENT TO SHARE with Ben Burgess
I’m truly grateful to have Ben Burgess as a Guest Author for this week’s blog interview. Ben is the author of the very best poetry book “Times have changed and life is strange”, his first novel and second published work is called “Monster” and his latest novel is named “Wounded”. Ben is currently working on his next project, which is called “Love and Happiness”.
Ben Burgess
Hi Ben, thank you for agreeing to this interview.
Tell me a little about yourself and your background? What were you like at school? Were you good at English? What are your ambitions for your writing career?
I’m a father, a poet, an author, a teacher, a personal trainer, and a Detective for NYPD. I wear a lot of hats because I like to uplift and help people. My mother has been a teacher in NYC for 30 years, so growing up I had no choice but to do well in school or she’d be all over me. My goals for writing are to 1. Have my books on the shelves of major bookstores and 2. To have my novels made into movies (THAT’S THE DREAM!!!!!)
Which writers inspire you?
My favorite author is Eric Jerome Dickey, an African American Fiction author. What attracted me to his work was the fact that it was different from most of the other Urban/ African American Fiction authors that I had read. I have spoken to him personally, and he has encouraged and supported my writing career. He has influenced me to not be afraid to be different.
What was your life like before becoming an author?
I’ve always been a writer, so my life hasn’t changed much. I used to write poetry and perform them at open mic’s and poetry lounges. Now, I’m focused on creating new novels to entertain people.
Which comes first – the character’s story or the idea for the novel?
For me, it’s the idea of the novel. I visualize the story I want to tell and the messages I want to convey. After I figure that out, I work on the characters voice.
When did you decide to become a writer?
Ben’s Facebook page!
When I was in 8th grade, I read Richard Wright’s “Native Son” I read that book and it was life changing for me. I knew I wanted to one day write something that could have the same effect on people. While in 8th grade, my English teacher Mrs. Marcus gave the class a poetry assignment. My poem was on basketball. I don’t remember what I wrote, but I remember my teacher was blown away by it. She encouraged me to keep writing. She was one of my most influential teachers, and I promised her if I ever wrote a book, I would write a poem about the Holocaust for her. (She was Jewish, and had family that were survivors.) My dream was to publish a book. I continued to write throughout high school and college.
My college professors told me I had talent as a poet and writer, so I decided to go to lounges that had open mics to perform my poetry. Hearing people cheer for me and appreciate my words, inspired me to keep writing. My first published book was a poetry book titled “Times Have changed and Life is Strange.” I wrote a poem for Mrs. Marcus titled “Holocaust”, keeping my promise. The poem “Ugly” from “Times Have Changed and Life is Strange”, is the poem that inspired me to write my first novel “Monster.” I reflected on my life, and felt it would be a good story that would teach and possible change people’s lives the way Richard Wright’s “Native Son” had done for me.
Why do you write?
I write because it makes me feel special. Writing is my stress relief, it’s my escape. I write because I feel I can help people with my words and make a difference in the world.
So, what have you written?
Ben Burgess Jr. Goodreads Profile!
My first published work was my poetry book “Times have changed and life is strange”, my first novel (second published work) was “Monster” My latest novel is “Wounded. My next project is called “Love and Happiness”. It is a sort of spin off from “Monster” based off a character named Karen that was one of Ken’s clients in that book. A sample for “Love and Happiness” can be found in the back of “Wounded”. *All of my books are connected in some way. For example in “Wounded” Ron is friends with Dr. Andrews. They were in the same Fraternity and roommates. Also the characters Will and Lou make a cameo in “Wounded” they are in the next book “Love and Happiness” I like all of my books to share the same universe. In both of my novels, I have poetry as an added bonus to my fans. In regards to awards, I have won the 2013 Readers Favorite Book Award for Urban Fiction, the 2014 Beverly Hills Book Award for African American Fiction, and I was a finalist for both the 2014 International Book Awards, and the 2014 National Indie Excellence Awards. I feel I’m living proof to anyone who wants to independently publish that if you have a dream to write a book, never give up. To give my fans and potential fans, a glimpse of me as a person, I have a blog on Goodreads: https://www.goodreads.com/author/show/6925256.Ben_Burgess_Jr_/blog
Where people can buy or see them?
Purchase Links:
Amazon: http://www.amazon.com/Wounded-Ben-Burgess-Jr-ebook/dp/B00JSBE3KA/ref=tmm_kin_swatch_0?_encoding=UTF8&sr=&qid=
Nook: http://www.barnesandnoble.com/w/wounded-ben-burgess-jr/1119273400?ean=2940149460601
Itunes: https://itunes.apple.com/us/book/wounded/id866628476?mt=11
Google Play: https://play.google.com/store/books/details?id=Vr5oAwAAQBAJ
Give me an insight into your main character. What does he/she do that is so special?
Samantha is my favorite character from “Wounded” because I wanted a tough, outspoken protagonist that had a lot of depth. I wanted her to be “layered” meaning that there are a lot of elements to her character. Samantha has a tough demeanor, but she is also suffering from PTSD due to child molestation, she’s a stripper, a lesbian, and she has so many stresses and struggles in her life. I wanted her to also be able to show that she could be naïve, loveable, and humble. I feel that all of these things makes her a survivor and makes her feel more human to the readers. I based Samantha off of some of my friends and one of my family members. I wanted a name that was feminine but could also be turned masculine (Samantha= Sam).
What sparked the idea for your book?
I was working on another novel, my next novel “Love and Happiness” when my co-workers told me I should write a book with a Lesbian protagonist. At first I thought it wouldn’t be possible since I wasn’t a woman and knew nothing about being Gay or the LGBT community. After going to a Lesbian bar with them and talking to the women there, I decided to work on the book. I did a lot of research. I talked to fifteen women on top of the five couples I interviewed, to hear their thoughts, feelings, and philosophies about being a Lesbian, and life in general. I listened to their joys and pains. “Wounded” was the hardest book I have written so far. With “Monster”, it was easier because 90% of that story was about me, but this story was a whole different world for me. It was both challenging and exciting at the same time.
How do you market your book?
Ben’s Website Page!
I want my novels to reach as many people as they can, so I use every form of advertising possible. Word of mouth is definitely important, but it can only go so far. I use all of the popular social media sites (Facebook, Twitter, Instagram, Goodreads, my personal website) to advertise.
The most successful form of marketing has been Facebook. I promote my book to different book groups on Facebook daily and my novels have been picked up as monthly reads for different book clubs around the country. I haven’t had much success with Instagram. I use press releases, advertise in local newspapers, and enter book contest to promote and spark interests for potential readers. I also keep at least (5) five paperback books on me at all time. I talk to new people every day, so there are always new potential readers to meet.
Do you have any advice for other authors on how to market their books? What do you do to get book reviews?
In order to sell your book effectively, I believe it starts with you. You have to talk to all types of people. In order to sell a lot of books, people have to know your book exists. I search for credible reviewer on Amazon and Goodreads. I also do research over the internet for other well know reviewers. If possible, find online promoters who post in Facebook groups. I’ve found that to be very effective because it introduces tons of people to your book.
What advice do you have for someone who would like to become a published writer?
There will be lots of times when you want to give up. There will be times when people talk bad about your book or sales might be low. Never give up. Believe in yourself and believe in your work. Listen to critiques and push your pride to the side. It doesn’t matter how great of a writer you believe you are, you can always improve. There will be those who will not be fans of your writing, but you should never give up. Keep improving and learning your craft. Edit and re-edit. (*always have your books professionally edited. You want people to take your book seriously and not feel that it is amateurish.) Learn from your mistakes, take classes and read other authors. Research the industry. Two of the most important things to do are: 1. Find a credible editor and 2. Promote, promote, promote. You have to put your heart and soul into your work. While it will be hard and you will go through trials and tribulations, in the end it’s worth it when your book is entertaining people and it’s successful.
Is there anything else you would like to add that I haven’t included?
Ben’s first book!
There are different strokes for different folks. There will be some that just don’t feel my style of writing or the story I’m telling.
In this business, you have to have thick skin, you can’t take everything personal. I listen to constructive criticism that I feel is helpful.
As a writer, I try to work on my flaws and improve with every book, but it’s impossible to please everyone. I work hard to write stories I believe a majority of people will enjoy.
How can readers discover more about you and your work?
Readers can go to my Facebook fan page or my website to learn about my works.
Website: http://www.woundedmonster.com/
Blog: https://www.goodreads.com/author/show/6925256.Ben_Burgess_Jr_/blog
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/BenBurgessJr
Twitter: https://twitter.com/Ben_Burgess_Jr
Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/profile/view?id=50211048&trk=nav_responsive_tab_profile_pic
Pinterest: http://www.pinterest.com/bennyb15/
Amazon Author Page: http://www.amazon.com/Ben-Burgess-Jr./e/B00BCKZPHK/ref=sr_tc_2_0?qid=1408072175&sr=1-2-ent
Book Links:
Book purchasing links:
Amazon: http://com/mtf2lw9
Itunes: https://itunes.apple.com/us/book/wounded/id866628476?mt=11
Google Play: https://play.google.com/store/books/details?id=Vr5oAwAAQBAJ
Barnes and Nobles: http://www.barnesandnoble.com/w/wounded-ben-burgess-jr/1119273400?ean=2940149460601
Goodreads: https://www.goodreads.com/author/list/6925256.Ben_Burgess_Jr_
It was a great privilege for me to get to interview Ben Burgess, who has inspired me in many different ways. Thank you Ben!!! Good Luck with everything! :)
September 5, 2014
What is the most infuriating book you’ve ever read?
I don’t think I’ve read a terrible book. I think because I do a lot of selective research before I invest my time in a book. Anyway despite all the research I usually do, there was a recent book called “The Dangerous Days of Daniel X” that made me feel a little annoyed.
The Dangerous Days of Daniel X
The Dangerous Days of Daniel X is a novel by James Patterson and co-author Michael Ledwidge, written in the same vein as his Maximum Ride series. Patterson returns to the realm of science fiction in this novel. It was released on July 21, 2008.
On top of the writing style being aggressively juvenile and condescending, I’m pretty sure the moral of that book is that if you have any talent, skill, or ability, you’re not human. The book was billed as a graphic novel for young adults/teens. Some of these type of books have been huge with adults (Harry Potter / Twilight). I can’t imagine this book will get anywhere near those heights. This book is bland, boring, obvious, too short, and ill-paced. Overall I love Patterson’s other works and I think he should stick to adult books!
If you disagree with me you are welcome to prove me wrong! :)
So, what about you? I want to know: what is the most awful book you’ve ever read and please tell me about how marvelously, hilariously horrible it is.
Come share your pain, people. Misery loves company. :)
June 13, 2014
Friday the 13th Day of Jokes or day of Superstition…
3th…Any month that begins on a Sunday will contain a Friday the 13th, and there is at least one Friday the 13th in every calendar year.
Friday the 13th is a day fraught with peril…
Origins:
We may make jokes about Friday the 13th and only kiddingly instruct loved ones to exercise greater care on that day, but those who suffer from a fear of the number thirteen (triskaidekaphobia) or a fear of Friday the 13th (paraskevidekatriaphobia) may genuinely feel limited by the rumored potential for ill luck connected with the date.
Why Does Friday the 13th Scare Us So Much?
Why all the anxiety? In short, because the fear is ingrained in Western culture, according to experts. (Get more Friday the 13th facts!) According to Thomas Gilovich, who chairs the department of psychology at Cornell University, our brains are almost too good at making associations.
According to folklorists, there is no written evidence for a “Friday the 13th” superstition before the 19th century.The earliest known documented reference in English occurs in Henry Sutherland Edwards‘ 1869 biography of Gioachino Rossini, who died on a Friday 13th.
He [Rossini] was surrounded to the last by admiring friends; and if it be true that, like so many Italians, he regarded Fridays as an unlucky day and thirteen as an unlucky number, it is remarkable that on Friday 13th of November he passed away.
One theory states that it is a modern amalgamation of two older superstitions: that 13 is an unlucky number and that Friday is an unlucky day.
“If anything bad happens to you on Friday the 13th, the two will be forever associated in your mind, and all those uneventful days in which the 13th fell on a Friday will be ignored,” Gilovich said in a statement. [13 Superstitions & Traditions Explained!]
This fear of Friday the 13th can be serious business, according to the Stress Management Center and Phobia Institute in Asheville, N.C., which, among other things, offers therapy to help people overcome their fear of the freaky friday. Their estimates suggest hundreds of millions of dollars, up to $900 million are lost due to people’s fear of flying or doing the business as usual that day, though that number isn’t backed up with other estimates.
Whatever the reason, fear of 13 has spread far and wide: Hotels and hospitals often skip the 13th floor, and even airports quietly omit gate 13 sometimes.
Interesting!!!
President Franklin D. Roosevelt is said to have avoided travel on the 13th day of any month, and would never host 13 guests at a meal. Napoleon and President Herbert Hoover were also triskaidekaphobic, with an abnormal fear of the number 13.
Mark Twain once was the 13th guest at a dinner party. A friend warned him not to go. “It was bad luck,” Twain later told the friend. “They only had food for 12.” Superstitious diners in Paris can hire a quatorzieme, or professional 14th guest. [13 Odd Occurrences on Friday the 13th]
Stock broker and author Thomas W. Lawson, in his 1907 novel “Friday the Thirteenth,” wrote of a stockbroker’s attempts to take down Wall Street on the unluckiest day of the month. Reportedly, stock brokers after this were as unlikely to buy or sell stocks on this unlucky day as they were to walk under a ladder, according to accounts of a 1925 New York Times article.
My personal opinion
!!!
We draw to us what has settled in our heart and in our mind. We have the ability to keep negativity from finding a home in us. Remember this and be strong!!!
Whatever happened on those days of the “13″ should not be an estimation of something which is mundane. every moment that’s happening has a reason and not of just mere facts or “principles”, we should look deeply and focused on things which are more productive and would help people on those SCARY 13th of their lives!!!
The next year in which we’ll have three Friday the 13ths is 2015. They’ll fall in February, March and November!
What do you think about this day??? Do you think is REAL??? :)
May 20, 2014
All I want to do is lock myself away in a book if only for today…
Well, this small poem describes what I felt when, for the first time, I saw the woman of my dreams.Read more at: http://www.netpoets.com/poems/love/0448002.htm © netpoets.com
Well, this small poem describes what I felt when, for the first time, I saw the woman of my dreams.Read more at: http://www.netpoets.com/poems/love/0448002.htm © netpoets.com
Well, this small poem describes what I felt when, for the first time, I saw the woman of my dreams.Read more at: http://www.netpoets.com/poems/love/0448002.htm © netpoets.com
Well, this small poem describes what I felt when, for the first time, I saw the woman of my dreams.Read more at: http://www.netpoets.com/poems/love/0448002.htm © netpoets.com
Well, this small poem describes what I felt when, for the first time, I saw the woman of my dreams.Read more at: http://www.netpoets.com/poems/love/0448002.htm © netpoets.com
Well, this small poem describes what I felt when, for the first time, I saw the woman of my dreams.Read more at: http://www.netpoets.com/poems/love/0448002.htm © netpoets.com
Well, this small poem describes what I feel when I am reading my favorite books… This is one of the best poems I’ve ever read. It contains meanings that it touched me and words can’t tell you how much it’s lovely. If you feel the same way, please share with me your thoughts and I will make sure more people will know how you feel… :)
it contains meanings that it touched me. and words can’t tell you how much it’s lovely.Read more at: http://www.netpoets.com/poems/love/0448002.htm © netpoets.com
it contains meanings that it touched me. and words can’t tell you how much it’s lovely.Read more at: http://www.netpoets.com/poems/love/0448002.htm © netpoets.com
it contains meanings that it touched me. and words can’t tell you how much it’s lovely.Read more at: http://www.netpoets.com/poems/love/0448002.htm © netpoets.c
Madalyn Beck
I Would Escape
All I want to do
is lock myself away
in a book
if only for today.
Who am I kidding?
I would disappear
if I could
for eternity
to another place
another realm
with bigger dreams
stronger loves
irrefutable bravery
fantastic adventures
and so much more.
I would escape
to those worlds
to find a new me
to take on the world
and find my destiny
find the one
who would love me
more than his own life.
I would take pleasure
in knowing
I could conquer
anything
placed in my path
with love by my side
and destiny in my heart.
I would escape…
by Madalyn Beck
I Would Escape by Madalyn Beck is just great poem about how one book can help us to escape in a world different then ours, in a world may be more special then ours, in a world more colorful and meaningful then the one we are experience.
If you like the poem and want to learn more about the author you can visit her page HERE!
April 30, 2014
A MOMENT TO SHARE with JANELLE KAHELE
Today I’m very lucky to be interviewing Janelle Kahele. She is a good mom of three daughters and lives life via email. She has recently been introduced to twitter and find it quite captivating. Janelle enjoy long walks and a good book to cuddle up to. Writing is her addiction and believe it or not it helps her relax after a long day in the hustle and bustle of the nine to five job. Janelle Kahele is author of Blink: The Blink Series – Breaking Branches, released December 7, 2013, Blink: The Blink Series – Blinded by Judgment, released March 3, 2014 and Mine, released February 19, 2014.
Janelle Kahele
Hi Janelle, thank you for agreeing to this interview.
Tell me a little about yourself and your background?
I am a 46 year married mother of three teenage daughters. My mother is of Hawaiian descent and my father is of Italian descent.
I spent most of my childhood traveling as my father was a Master Sergeant for the U.S. Army.
What were you like at school?
High school was the best time of my life. I was joiner and often joined into more than I was capable of doing.
Were you good at English?
Literature was my favorite subject, but Grammar gave me some problems, but I managed to get through it.
What are your ambitions for your writing career?
To write and have other enjoy what I’m writing.
Which writers inspire you?
Janell’s Twitter Page!
Self-published writers inspire me, they are raw and write with complete heart. If I had to pick a famous writer I enjoy it would have to be Mary Shelley.
What was your life like before becoming an author?
I began writing very young, although I never published any of my writings till I was older. So you could say I grew up writing.
Which comes first?
I would say that I get an idea and then write about. I don’t write with a plot, I am not a structured writer, I write what I feel and the story just comes together.
When did you decide to become a writer?
Janelle’s Website Page!
I decided to publish my writings, by the insistence of my family.
They believed I needed to share my stories with others.
Why do you write?
I write to relieve the thoughts in my mind. It relaxes me.
So, what have you written?
Blink: The Series – Breaking Branches. Can be purchased at Amazon.com!!!!
Give me an insight into your main character. My main character Christia (Tia) Cartwright, is a young girl who is left in the world alone after her parents are murder. She relives the murder of her parents every night when she closes her eyes. She employs alcohol as a way to escape the nightmares.
What sparked the idea for your book?
I wanted to write about a girl who was lost and confused and Blink: The Series – Breaking Branches is what conspired.
Do you have any advice for other authors on how to market their books?
My best advice for a self published author is to use a promotion company, like I do with Elite Book Promotions.
What do you do to get book reviews?
I let the book speak for itself.
What advice do you have for someone who would like to become a published writer?
It is hard and sometimes frustrating, but if it is something you want to do, it will work out, as it has for me.
Website: www.janellekahele.com
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/pages/J-Kahele/1483634408525884?ref=hl
Twitter: https://twitter.com/JanelleKahele
Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/profile/view?id=318397019&trk=nav_responsive_tab_profile
Pinterest: http://www.pinterest.com/janellekahele/
Amazon Author Page: http://www.amazon.com/J-Kahele/e/B00IM1SZQA/ref=ntt_dp_epwbk_0
Goodreads: https://www.goodreads.com/author/show/7356203.J_Kahele
It was a great privilege for me to get to interview Janelle Kahele, who has inspired me in many different ways. Thank you Janelle!!! Good Luck with everything!
April 23, 2014
Happy WORLD DAY OF BOOKS!!! 23 April …
World Book and Copyright Day
23 April
Books are our most powerful forces of poverty eradication and peace building…
23 April is a symbolic date for world literature. It is on this date in 1616 that Cervantes, Shakespeare and Inca Garcilaso de la Vega all died. It is also the date of birth or death of other prominent authors, such as Maurice Druon, Haldor K.Laxness, Vladimir Nabokov, Josep Pla and Manuel Mejía Vallejo.
In the UK and Ireland, today marks the celebration of World Book Night. This year, for the first time, individual readers are are being encouraged to register as community book givers and give a book away – be it to a friend or loved one, a member of their community or a complete stranger – to spread the love for literature.
Symbols…Each year a poster is designed and distributed around the world. It features images designed to encourage people, particularly children, to read books and appreciate literature. There is also a logo for World Book and Copyright Day. It features a circle, representing the world, and two books, one of which is open.
Purpose of the day…World Book and Copyright Day is an occasion to pay a worldwide tribute to books and authors and to encourage people to discover the pleasure of reading. It is hoped that this will lead to the renewed respect for those who have made irreplaceable contributions to social and cultural progress. In some years, the UNESCO Prize for Children’s and Young People’s Literature in the Service of Tolerance is awarded. It is also hoped that World Book and Copyright Day will increase people’s understanding of and adherence to copyright laws and other measures to protect intellectual copyright.
What do people do?…A range of activities to promote reading and the cultural aspects of books are held all over the world. Many of these emphasize international cooperation or friendships between countries. Events include: relay readings of books and plays; the distribution of bookmarks; the announcement of the winners of literary competitions; and actions to promote the understanding of laws on copyright and the protection of authors’ intellectual property.
PS. Are you involved in World Book Night? Or are you in one of the countries that celebrate World Book Day today? I want to see and read how you’re experiencing it – and what book you would share with your loved ones…
Following the Catalan tradition, I have just bought my copy of The Four Loves, by C.S. Lewis: This is a beautiful, heart-searching book on the nature love. By reading it yourself and giving it to someone you love, not only would you would both find out precisely where you stood, :) but you could enjoy the greater depth of love in all its nuances opened up before you!
April 8, 2014
Writing Process, Blog Post April 7, 2014
I’d like to thank Jennie Sherwin, for inviting me to take part in the Writing Process blog tour, where I’m asked by a writer, Jennie in my case, to answer 4 questions about how and why I write, and then I ask other writers to continue writing about their process on their blogs. 
Before I go and answer Jennie’s questions I would like to tell you a little something about her. She is from New Jersey and she have always loved reading and writing. For the past twenty-three years she have working as a writer and editor in the field of public health, first as an employee of large organizations and then as a self-employed freelancer.
You can find Jennie Sherwin blogs here: http://jsherwinblog.wordpress.com. She blogs about the environment and health, diet and health, healing and consciousness, the human energy system, books, and writers.
What am I working on?
I’m currently writing the second book in the trilogy – The Bloodstone. I am not even done with the book and I have generated so much buzz over the project that I have had several people tell me that they want autographed copies. I am still getting used to these requests. It feels good though… to have people reacting so strongly to the concept of my book. I just can’t wait to finish it and move into the next phase of promoting it. When it is ready I promise I will send it to you for an honest review Jennie.
How does my work differ from others of its genre?
I think it’s my gift, joy and passion. I love to create stories. Just like Peter Pan. If you take away his shadow he’s only half a boy. If you take away my writing I’m only half of a woman. Writing is part of me. It’s who I am and who I want to be.
Why do I write what I do?
Because I love it! If I’m not writing there’s something missing. It’s and affliction. Like a twitch I’m trying to control.Also, because there is a story on my mind, that I have to share with the world.
How does my writing process work?
When I feel ready to work, I sit in front of my laptop and begin tapping out whatever comes to mind. Then, after taking a short walk, I read over what I’ve written and pick out the things that strike me as worth keeping – key ideas and interesting details. After this, I usually go on to print this first draft and read it aloud. Then I put it aside and start all over again. When I’m done, I compare both papers and combine them by taking some things out and putting other things in. Then I print and read my draft out loud again. If it sounds okay, I continue to write.
On April 14, 2014, author Sara Burr will participate on the Writing Process Blog tour.
Sara “Furlong” Burr was born on February 1, 1982, in Kalamazoo, Michigan. At an early age, when it became apparent she wouldn’t have the luxury of skating through life on her looks or athletic prowess, Sara found her true passion in writing. While in fifth grade, she wrote her first “novel”(whose name escapes her at the moment) about five friends who win a trip to Hawaii. At ninety-something pages, it was her crowning achievement during her childhood (you may now begin drawing your own conclusions on how sad a childhood Sara actually had).
Sara is author of Enigma Black (Enigma Black, #1), Vendetta Nation (Enigma Black, #2), and A second Change.
On April 21, 2014, author Jody Hedlund will participate on the Writing Process Blog tour.
Jody Hedlund is an award-winning and bestselling author of inspirational historical romances. She currently makes her home in central Michigan with her husband their five busy children.
As a busy mama-writer, she has the wonderful privilege of teaching her crew of 5 children at home. In between grading math papers and giving spelling tests, she occasionally does a load of laundry and washes dishes. When she’s not busy being a mama, you can find her in front of her laptop working on another of her page-turning stories. She loves reading almost as much as she loves writing, especially when it also involves chocolate and coffee.
Jody is author of The Preacher’s Bride, The Doctor’s Lady, Unending Devotion (Michigan Brides, #1), A Noble Groom (Michigan Brides #2), Captured by Love (Michigan Brides #3), Rebellious Heart, Love Unexpected (Beacons of Hope, #1) and more.
On April 28, 2014, Morgan Rice will participate on the Writing Process Blog tour.
Morgan Rise is author of the #1 Bestselling THE SORCERER’S RING, a new epic fantasy series, currently comprising four books and counting, which has been translated into five languages.
Morgan Rice is also author of the #1 Bestselling THE VAMPIRE JOURNALS, a young adult series comprising eight books, which has been translated into six languages.
Morgan is also author of the #1 Bestselling THE VAMPIRE LEGACY, a young adult series comprising two books and counting.
Morgan is also author of the #1 Bestselling ARENA ONE and ARENA TWO, the first two books in THE SURVIVAL TRILOGY, a post-apocalyptic action thriller set in the future.
