P.J. Hoover's Blog, page 17
October 16, 2012
What I'm Reading: THE DIVINERS by Libba Bray
A new book by Libba Bray is always something to celebrate, especially when the promised tone of the book reflects A GREAT AND TERRIBLE BEAUTY (which I absolutely loved). So I've been waiting for this book to come out since I first heard about the deal in Publishers Marketplace.
THE DIVINERS by Libba Bray (Little, Brown, September 18, 2012)
Here are five things I have to say about THE DIVINERS:
1) I've always been a bit scared to write a novel set in a historical time period, and THE DIVINERS kind of reminds me why. There is historical research the way most authors do it, and then there is historical research the way Libba Bray does it. Nothing can quite compare (with the possible exception of REVOLUTION by Jennifer Donnelly (Delacorte, October 12, 2010) which also had an amazing amount of research involved). Few books make me feel like I am actually back living in a given time period, but Libba Bray once again manages to capture the time perfectly. From the parties to the lingo to the necessities like clothing and food, reading this book will make a virtual flapper girl out of just about anyone.
2) There are hints of romance throughout, and then a bit more romance toward the end, but this book is just not about the romance, which is kind of refreshing given a YA market filled with stories that have romance at the forefront. Don't get me wrong. I'm all about the romance. But I'm also all about a story that makes me forget I'm all about the romance.
3) It's a ton of fun to read a young adult book that breaks so many of the "rules" set in place in the young adult market today. Point of view. Present vs. past tense. Backstory. THE DIVINERS takes all these "guidelines" and pretty much tosses them out the window. And it totally works. I got so caught up in the reading that I forgot to even think about the writing.
4) I have to mention the story line because it's clever and twisting and seriously scary. THE DIVINERS had me reading late late late into the night to find out how the main character, Evie, was going to get herself out of such a mess (which, of course, she had to get into). And once I finished, I wanted to sleep with the light on all night.
5) Read THE DIVINERS if you are looking for a rich comfort read that you can relax into. Read THE DIVINERS if you love Libba Bray and her writing. Read THE DIVINERS if you want to be transported to another time period while still soaking up young adult fantasy. Highly recommended!
ADD IT TO YOUR GOODREADS TBR LIST NOW!
From Amazon:
Evie O'Neill has been exiled from her boring old hometown and shipped off to the bustling streets of New York City--and she is pos-i-toot-ly thrilled. New York is the city of speakeasies, shopping, and movie palaces! Soon enough, Evie is running with glamorous Ziegfield girls and rakish pickpockets. The only catch is Evie has to live with her Uncle Will, curator of The Museum of American Folklore, Superstition, and the Occult--also known as "The Museum of the Creepy Crawlies." When a rash of occult-based murders comes to light, Evie and her uncle are right in the thick of the investigation. And through it all, Evie has a secret: a mysterious power that could help catch the killer--if he doesn't catch her first.
Source of book: From publisher by request
THE DIVINERS by Libba Bray (Little, Brown, September 18, 2012)
Here are five things I have to say about THE DIVINERS:
1) I've always been a bit scared to write a novel set in a historical time period, and THE DIVINERS kind of reminds me why. There is historical research the way most authors do it, and then there is historical research the way Libba Bray does it. Nothing can quite compare (with the possible exception of REVOLUTION by Jennifer Donnelly (Delacorte, October 12, 2010) which also had an amazing amount of research involved). Few books make me feel like I am actually back living in a given time period, but Libba Bray once again manages to capture the time perfectly. From the parties to the lingo to the necessities like clothing and food, reading this book will make a virtual flapper girl out of just about anyone.
2) There are hints of romance throughout, and then a bit more romance toward the end, but this book is just not about the romance, which is kind of refreshing given a YA market filled with stories that have romance at the forefront. Don't get me wrong. I'm all about the romance. But I'm also all about a story that makes me forget I'm all about the romance.
3) It's a ton of fun to read a young adult book that breaks so many of the "rules" set in place in the young adult market today. Point of view. Present vs. past tense. Backstory. THE DIVINERS takes all these "guidelines" and pretty much tosses them out the window. And it totally works. I got so caught up in the reading that I forgot to even think about the writing.
4) I have to mention the story line because it's clever and twisting and seriously scary. THE DIVINERS had me reading late late late into the night to find out how the main character, Evie, was going to get herself out of such a mess (which, of course, she had to get into). And once I finished, I wanted to sleep with the light on all night.
5) Read THE DIVINERS if you are looking for a rich comfort read that you can relax into. Read THE DIVINERS if you love Libba Bray and her writing. Read THE DIVINERS if you want to be transported to another time period while still soaking up young adult fantasy. Highly recommended!
ADD IT TO YOUR GOODREADS TBR LIST NOW!
From Amazon:
Evie O'Neill has been exiled from her boring old hometown and shipped off to the bustling streets of New York City--and she is pos-i-toot-ly thrilled. New York is the city of speakeasies, shopping, and movie palaces! Soon enough, Evie is running with glamorous Ziegfield girls and rakish pickpockets. The only catch is Evie has to live with her Uncle Will, curator of The Museum of American Folklore, Superstition, and the Occult--also known as "The Museum of the Creepy Crawlies." When a rash of occult-based murders comes to light, Evie and her uncle are right in the thick of the investigation. And through it all, Evie has a secret: a mysterious power that could help catch the killer--if he doesn't catch her first.
Source of book: From publisher by request
THE FAERIE RING Winner!
Thank you to all the awesome people who entered to win this book! The winner of
THE FAERIE RING by Kiki Hamilton (Tor Teen, September 27, 2011)
is...
LAUREN GOFF!
Sparkly flowers and all sorts of congratulations!
p.s. look for more giveaways coming soon!
THE FAERIE RING by Kiki Hamilton (Tor Teen, September 27, 2011)
is...
LAUREN GOFF!
Sparkly flowers and all sorts of congratulations!
p.s. look for more giveaways coming soon!
October 15, 2012
Time out for the Renaissance Faire!
Taking time away from real life and heading out to the Renaissance Faire is always a great idea!
If you've spent 100 hours making chain-mail, make sure to wear it!Watch out for small faeries with mischievous intent :)
All food is better on a stick. Bacon. Chicken. Mushrooms. Steak.(but yeah, not soup. and not beer, either.)
Don't miss The Mud Show!And while you're at it, "like" them on Facebook!
At the Ren Faire, you never know who will end up in costume!
So now it's all done, and I wish I'd taken more pictures. But...maybe I'll go back. The show is around for another month or so :)
Hope you all had a fun weekend, and here's to a great week!
If you've spent 100 hours making chain-mail, make sure to wear it!Watch out for small faeries with mischievous intent :)
All food is better on a stick. Bacon. Chicken. Mushrooms. Steak.(but yeah, not soup. and not beer, either.)
Don't miss The Mud Show!And while you're at it, "like" them on Facebook!
At the Ren Faire, you never know who will end up in costume!So now it's all done, and I wish I'd taken more pictures. But...maybe I'll go back. The show is around for another month or so :)
Hope you all had a fun weekend, and here's to a great week!
October 11, 2012
What I'm Reading: ABRAHAM LINCOLN: VAMPIRE HUNTER
I'll admit it. The thing that pushed me over the edge to read this book (or actually to listen to it on audio) was the movie theater poster. It looked so intriguing and dark and tasty, and so I grabbed it off of Audible.com and started listening.
ABRAHAM LINCOLN: VAMPIRE HUNTER by Seth Grahame-Smith (Grand Central Publishing, March 2, 2010)
Here are five things I have to say about ABRAHAM LINCOLN: VAMPIRE HUNTER:
1) I listened on audio, and though I LOVED the audiobook narration, after checking the Amazon page and seeing all the internal photographs and illustrations I missed, I'm kind of wanting to head to my nearest bookstore to check those out. So if you love audiobooks, this is a great one to choose, but know that you'll miss some cool extras.
2) The book, though it seems so simple in its concept, really make me step back and think about the whole time period, slavery, the struggles everywhere. I love the bizarre slant that it put on everything, and now, every time I think of Abe, I'll know the truth about him.
3) Which speaking of, the way the truth and the fantasy was woven together was seamless. I believed every bit of the story as I was reading, and I enjoyed trying to piece out what was actually real and what was complete fabrication.
4) Don't read this book if you're going to get annoyed at the idea of taking history and turning it a bit on its side. This is a book that takes itself seriously while at the same time managing to have a great time.
5) Read this book if you enjoy alternate histories. Read this book if you're looking for a quick, enjoyable, deep read. Read this book if you love vampires and are looking for something featuring their darker side. Highly recommended!
Add it to your Goodreads TBR list now!
The Book Trailer
The Movie Trailer
Source of book: Purchased on Audible.com
From Amazon:
Indiana‚ 1818. Moonlight falls through the dense woods that surround a one-room cabin where a nine-year-old Abraham Lincoln kneels at his dying mother's bedside. Only later will the grieving Abe learn that his mother's fatal affliction was actually the work of a vampire. Gifted with his legendary height‚ strength‚ and skill with an ax‚ Abe sets out on a path of vengeance that will lead him all the way to the White House.
ABRAHAM LINCOLN: VAMPIRE HUNTER by Seth Grahame-Smith (Grand Central Publishing, March 2, 2010)
Here are five things I have to say about ABRAHAM LINCOLN: VAMPIRE HUNTER:
1) I listened on audio, and though I LOVED the audiobook narration, after checking the Amazon page and seeing all the internal photographs and illustrations I missed, I'm kind of wanting to head to my nearest bookstore to check those out. So if you love audiobooks, this is a great one to choose, but know that you'll miss some cool extras.
2) The book, though it seems so simple in its concept, really make me step back and think about the whole time period, slavery, the struggles everywhere. I love the bizarre slant that it put on everything, and now, every time I think of Abe, I'll know the truth about him.
3) Which speaking of, the way the truth and the fantasy was woven together was seamless. I believed every bit of the story as I was reading, and I enjoyed trying to piece out what was actually real and what was complete fabrication.
4) Don't read this book if you're going to get annoyed at the idea of taking history and turning it a bit on its side. This is a book that takes itself seriously while at the same time managing to have a great time.
5) Read this book if you enjoy alternate histories. Read this book if you're looking for a quick, enjoyable, deep read. Read this book if you love vampires and are looking for something featuring their darker side. Highly recommended!
Add it to your Goodreads TBR list now!
The Book Trailer
The Movie Trailer
Source of book: Purchased on Audible.com
From Amazon:
Indiana‚ 1818. Moonlight falls through the dense woods that surround a one-room cabin where a nine-year-old Abraham Lincoln kneels at his dying mother's bedside. Only later will the grieving Abe learn that his mother's fatal affliction was actually the work of a vampire. Gifted with his legendary height‚ strength‚ and skill with an ax‚ Abe sets out on a path of vengeance that will lead him all the way to the White House.
October 9, 2012
Former Debut: Michele Corriel, Class of 2k10
It's been a couple weeks since our last former debut, but this week, I'm so happy to welcome Michele Corriel to my blog as the former debut!
*****
Name: Michele Corriel
Debut Group: Class of 2K10
Debut novel: FAIRVIEW FELINES: A NEWSPAPER MYSTERY
Hi, Michele! Thank you for stopping by!
PJH: Okay, so it’s been two years since you graduated from your debut class. Personally, I miss the heck out of knowing what my classmates are up to. So give us the low-down. What have you been up to in the last few years? New books? New degrees? New pets? What has been going on, and what do we have to look forward to from you in the future?
Michelle: So much has happened in the last two years! First of all, the publisher of Fairview Felines: A Newspaper Mystery went out of business. Yes, I know. Sad. Very sad. And then I read about an ebook publisher who was looking for out of print books for middle graders and teens. I thought, Hey, that’s me! So contacted the editor/publisher of Ambush Books and they were interested in the Newspaper Mysteries, as a series! They asked if I had a second book, and of course, I just happened to have one.
This August both Newspaper Mysteries – Fairview Felines and True Lies were released as ebooks!
Talk about making lemonade out of lemons. Not only was I able to keep my first book alive but I was able to get the second book published as well. Ambush Books has asked me to write a short story using Thomas Weston and his buddies in Fairview – which I’m working on – and we’ll see about a third book. I do have a great idea for one. But I don’t want to jump the gun here!
In January, my first non-fiction picture book will be released by Mountain Press, Weird Rocks. I’m very excited about this project as it is near and dear to my … husband’s heart! He’s a geologist and an avid rock hound. My entire house is filled with rocks. So I just had to do this book. Besides, it’s a lot of fun writing about all those weird rocks in the world (rocks that float, rocks from outer space, and even rocks made from poop!).
FAIRVIEW FELINES by Michele Corriel (October 5, 2010)
PJH: If you could summarize to a debut novelist the best part of being a member of an author group like the “Class of” groups, what would you say?
Michelle: It’s definitely the friendships you develop. No one understands what it’s like having your first book released like another debut author. It’s like parenthood. If you don’t have kids, you just don’t get it.
WEIRD ROCKS by Michele Corriel (January 2013)
PJH: Though I absolutely loved being a debut author, I’m really thrilled with all the experience I’ve gained since. What advice would you give to those who are debuting now? What do you wish you had known when you started out?
Michelle: If you are a debut author then you already know about all the work that people don’t talk about – marketing, blogging, tweeting, reading blogs, keeping up with the tweets, getting and giving away swag, contests, plus Pinterest, Linked In and whatever else new social media is popping up every day. (I just got invited to Google+)
But the most important thing, I would say, is not to forget your creative self. It’s so easy to focus on the marketing and forget about the second novel (or third).
TRUE LIES by Michele Corriel (July 7, 2012)
PJH: In addition to writing the next mega-million bestselling novel, what do you want to accomplish in the next five years? Do you want to write five more books? Get your black belt in Kung Fu? Walk the Great Wall of China? Let’s hear it.
Michelle: Travel is always on my dance card. Besides that I’d like to just keep getting better as a writer. I love to challenge myself and I find I’m writing about more and more complicated topics as I go on.
PJH: Thank you so much for being here! And good luck with everything in the future!
*****
Thanks for helping me celebrate former debuts! And if you are a former debut and are interested in being featured, check out this post here!
*****
Name: Michele Corriel
Debut Group: Class of 2K10
Debut novel: FAIRVIEW FELINES: A NEWSPAPER MYSTERY
Hi, Michele! Thank you for stopping by!PJH: Okay, so it’s been two years since you graduated from your debut class. Personally, I miss the heck out of knowing what my classmates are up to. So give us the low-down. What have you been up to in the last few years? New books? New degrees? New pets? What has been going on, and what do we have to look forward to from you in the future?
Michelle: So much has happened in the last two years! First of all, the publisher of Fairview Felines: A Newspaper Mystery went out of business. Yes, I know. Sad. Very sad. And then I read about an ebook publisher who was looking for out of print books for middle graders and teens. I thought, Hey, that’s me! So contacted the editor/publisher of Ambush Books and they were interested in the Newspaper Mysteries, as a series! They asked if I had a second book, and of course, I just happened to have one.
This August both Newspaper Mysteries – Fairview Felines and True Lies were released as ebooks!
Talk about making lemonade out of lemons. Not only was I able to keep my first book alive but I was able to get the second book published as well. Ambush Books has asked me to write a short story using Thomas Weston and his buddies in Fairview – which I’m working on – and we’ll see about a third book. I do have a great idea for one. But I don’t want to jump the gun here!
In January, my first non-fiction picture book will be released by Mountain Press, Weird Rocks. I’m very excited about this project as it is near and dear to my … husband’s heart! He’s a geologist and an avid rock hound. My entire house is filled with rocks. So I just had to do this book. Besides, it’s a lot of fun writing about all those weird rocks in the world (rocks that float, rocks from outer space, and even rocks made from poop!).
FAIRVIEW FELINES by Michele Corriel (October 5, 2010)PJH: If you could summarize to a debut novelist the best part of being a member of an author group like the “Class of” groups, what would you say?
Michelle: It’s definitely the friendships you develop. No one understands what it’s like having your first book released like another debut author. It’s like parenthood. If you don’t have kids, you just don’t get it.
WEIRD ROCKS by Michele Corriel (January 2013)PJH: Though I absolutely loved being a debut author, I’m really thrilled with all the experience I’ve gained since. What advice would you give to those who are debuting now? What do you wish you had known when you started out?
Michelle: If you are a debut author then you already know about all the work that people don’t talk about – marketing, blogging, tweeting, reading blogs, keeping up with the tweets, getting and giving away swag, contests, plus Pinterest, Linked In and whatever else new social media is popping up every day. (I just got invited to Google+)
But the most important thing, I would say, is not to forget your creative self. It’s so easy to focus on the marketing and forget about the second novel (or third).
TRUE LIES by Michele Corriel (July 7, 2012)
PJH: In addition to writing the next mega-million bestselling novel, what do you want to accomplish in the next five years? Do you want to write five more books? Get your black belt in Kung Fu? Walk the Great Wall of China? Let’s hear it.
Michelle: Travel is always on my dance card. Besides that I’d like to just keep getting better as a writer. I love to challenge myself and I find I’m writing about more and more complicated topics as I go on.
PJH: Thank you so much for being here! And good luck with everything in the future!
*****
Thanks for helping me celebrate former debuts! And if you are a former debut and are interested in being featured, check out this post here!
October 2, 2012
Kiki Hamilton Giveaway!
I am so happy for Kiki Hamilton and the release of the second book in her FAERIE RING series, THE TORN WING! If you haven't checked it out, please do yourself the favor and head over there right now! You can read my review for THE FAERIE RING here!
THE TORN WING by Kiki Hamilton (August 9, 2012)
From Amazon:
London 1872 -
A bloody escape, a deadly threat, a shocking revelation...
As the orphan who stole the Queen's ring - only to find the ring was a reservoir that held a truce between the world of Faerie and the British Court - Tiki's greatest fear suddenly becomes all too real: the fey have returned to London seeking revenge. As war escalates in the Otherworld, Queen Victoria's youngest son, Prince Leopold, is attacked. In order to protect her family and the ones she loves, she needs to know the meaning of an fáinne sí, the birthmark that winds around her wrist. But will Tiki be brave enough to face the truth?
In celebration of the release of this second book, I am giving away a HARDCOVER of the first book.
THE FAERIE RING by Kiki Hamilton (Tor Teen, September 27, 2011)
Source of book: From publisher at trade show
*****
It's easy to win! Two things to note...
1) This giveaway is open until 12:01 am on October 13, 2012.
2) Contest is US only.
To enter, fill out the Rafflecopter form below.
a Rafflecopter giveaway
Good luck!
THE TORN WING by Kiki Hamilton (August 9, 2012)
From Amazon:
London 1872 -
A bloody escape, a deadly threat, a shocking revelation...
As the orphan who stole the Queen's ring - only to find the ring was a reservoir that held a truce between the world of Faerie and the British Court - Tiki's greatest fear suddenly becomes all too real: the fey have returned to London seeking revenge. As war escalates in the Otherworld, Queen Victoria's youngest son, Prince Leopold, is attacked. In order to protect her family and the ones she loves, she needs to know the meaning of an fáinne sí, the birthmark that winds around her wrist. But will Tiki be brave enough to face the truth?
In celebration of the release of this second book, I am giving away a HARDCOVER of the first book.
THE FAERIE RING by Kiki Hamilton (Tor Teen, September 27, 2011)
Source of book: From publisher at trade show
*****
It's easy to win! Two things to note...
1) This giveaway is open until 12:01 am on October 13, 2012.
2) Contest is US only.
To enter, fill out the Rafflecopter form below.
a Rafflecopter giveaway
Good luck!
October 1, 2012
SOLSTICE Cover Reveal Winners!
Thank you to everyone who entered to win and who helped me celebrate the reveal of the cover for SOLSTICE (Tor Teen, June 2013)!
****
The WINNER OF PRIZE PACK #1 is Jessie (@thejessiebelle)!
An ARC of MASQUE OF THE RED DEATH by Bethany Griffin (Greenwillow, April 24, 2012)
An ARC of An ARC of THUMPED by Megan McCafferty (Balzer & Bray, April 24, 2012)
An ARC of ILLUMINATE by Aimee Agresti (Harcourt, March 6, 2012)
An ARC of FALL FROM GRACE by Charles Benoit (Harper, May 8, 2012)
The WINNER OF PRIZE PACK #2 is Lisa (alterlisa)!
An ARC of GLIMMER by Phoebe Kitanidis (Balzer & Bray, April 17, 2012)
An ARC of THE INFECTS by Sean Beaudoin (Candlewick, September 25, 2012)
An ARC of ECHO by Alyson Noel (St. Martins Press, November 13, 2012)
A Paperback of THE WOOD QUEEN by Karen Mahoney (Flux, February 8, 2012)
An ARC of IMMORTAL CITY by Scott Speer (Razorbill, April 3, 2012)
The WINNER OF PRIZE #3 is Haunted Orchid!
$20 GIFT CARD to the online bookstore of your choice
Thank you all!
****
The WINNER OF PRIZE PACK #1 is Jessie (@thejessiebelle)!
An ARC of MASQUE OF THE RED DEATH by Bethany Griffin (Greenwillow, April 24, 2012)
An ARC of An ARC of THUMPED by Megan McCafferty (Balzer & Bray, April 24, 2012)
An ARC of ILLUMINATE by Aimee Agresti (Harcourt, March 6, 2012)
An ARC of FALL FROM GRACE by Charles Benoit (Harper, May 8, 2012)
The WINNER OF PRIZE PACK #2 is Lisa (alterlisa)!
An ARC of GLIMMER by Phoebe Kitanidis (Balzer & Bray, April 17, 2012)
An ARC of THE INFECTS by Sean Beaudoin (Candlewick, September 25, 2012)
An ARC of ECHO by Alyson Noel (St. Martins Press, November 13, 2012)
A Paperback of THE WOOD QUEEN by Karen Mahoney (Flux, February 8, 2012)
An ARC of IMMORTAL CITY by Scott Speer (Razorbill, April 3, 2012)
The WINNER OF PRIZE #3 is Haunted Orchid!
$20 GIFT CARD to the online bookstore of your choice
Thank you all!
September 27, 2012
Former Debut: Jody Feldman, Class of 2k8
I will admit the Class of 2k8 holds such a special place in my heart! I loved being a part of this class so much! I can't believe it's been four years since 2008! Like all the debut groups before and after us, our class had a wonderful bond. And much of that was due to our fabulous co-presidents! I've already featured Marissa Doyle, and today I am thrilled to feature our other co-president, Jody Feldman!
*****
Name: Jody Feldman
Debut Group: Class of 2008
Debut novel: THE GOLLYWHOPPER GAMES
Hi, Jody! I miss you!
PJH: Okay, so it’s been nearly 4 years since you graduated from your debut class. Personally, I miss the heck out of knowing what my classmates are up to. So give us the low-down. What have you been up to in the last few years? New books? New degrees? New pets? What has been going on, and what do we have to look forward to from you in the future?
JF: It’s like trying to catch up with anyone after several years; so much has happened, but so little to report. Second book, check! The Seventh Level came out in 2010. House remodel requiring a four-month move-out, check! Been back in for about a year. New books, check! Gollywhopper Games 2 and Gollywhopper Games 3 (titles not yet set) coming out in 2013 and 2014.
THE 7th LEVEL by Jody Feldman (Greenwillow, May 25, 2010)
PJH: If you could summarize to a debut novelist the best part of being a member of an author group like the “Class of” groups, what would you say?
JF: You sign your first contract with all that swagger, then you realize how little you know. Being in something like the Class of 2k8 works on so many levels to give you the support you need whether it’s commiseration, celebration, or especially navigation of the author world. The added exposure doesn’t hurt either.
PJH: Though I absolutely loved being a debut author, I’m really thrilled with all the experience I’ve gained since. What advice would you give to those who are debuting now? What do you wish you had known when you started out?
JF: You cannot and should not know and do everything; therefore,
Do not obsess focus so much on the factors you can’t control. I’d always heard you can’t build a career waiting for reviews or suggesting schemes to your publisher’s marketing department. Of course you want to, and of course, that type of support helps. So while I still try to reach teachers, librarians and booksellers, I work even more (as my wise editor suggested) on the most important task – writing an excellent next book.
PJH: In addition to writing the next mega-million bestselling novel, what do you want to accomplish in the next five years? Do you want to write five more books? Get your black belt in Kung Fu? Walk the Great Wall of China? Let’s hear it.
JF: I’ve always wanted to try my hand at writing a romantic-comedy for the big screen. I’ve always wanted to eat pasta in Italy and spend a week on a wind-swept terrace in the South of France. I’ve always wanted to paint something, and I’m not talking about a wall or ceiling or house exterior. All of which could happen in the next five years. Or maybe something else will instead.
THE GOLLYWHOPPER GAMES by Jody Feldman (Greenwillow, March 4, 2008)
PJH: Anything else you want to add? Five reasons to read your book? A picture of your writing space? How you celebrated when you signed your contract? Your choice!
JF: This business has its mysterious ways. I wrote The Gollywhopper Games as a stand-alone. Okay. Yes, of course, I daydreamed about writing a follow-up, but never seriously. And never did a Book 3 creep into in my greatest dreams. But one librarian read the book and suggested it here and there, and this little book that could found its way onto one state list then 16 or so, and that generated enough steam to warrant a couple sequels. Who knew? I sure didn’t. I just wanted to write a book that some kid might want to read all the way through.
PJH: Thank you so much for being here! And good luck with everything in the future!
****
Bio:
Jody Feldman blames her 7th grade English teacher (justly or not) for turning her away from writing, yet the world mysteriously led her back. She is the author of The Seventh Level and The Gollywhopper Games. Coming soon, Gollywhopper 2 & 3 (HarperCollins/Greenwillow). You can find her in St. Louis, MO, at www.jodyfeldman.com or as jodyfeldman on Twitter.
*****
Thanks for helping me celebrate former debuts! And if you are a former debut and are interested in being featured, check out this post here!
*****
Name: Jody Feldman
Debut Group: Class of 2008
Debut novel: THE GOLLYWHOPPER GAMES
Hi, Jody! I miss you!
PJH: Okay, so it’s been nearly 4 years since you graduated from your debut class. Personally, I miss the heck out of knowing what my classmates are up to. So give us the low-down. What have you been up to in the last few years? New books? New degrees? New pets? What has been going on, and what do we have to look forward to from you in the future?
JF: It’s like trying to catch up with anyone after several years; so much has happened, but so little to report. Second book, check! The Seventh Level came out in 2010. House remodel requiring a four-month move-out, check! Been back in for about a year. New books, check! Gollywhopper Games 2 and Gollywhopper Games 3 (titles not yet set) coming out in 2013 and 2014.
THE 7th LEVEL by Jody Feldman (Greenwillow, May 25, 2010)PJH: If you could summarize to a debut novelist the best part of being a member of an author group like the “Class of” groups, what would you say?
JF: You sign your first contract with all that swagger, then you realize how little you know. Being in something like the Class of 2k8 works on so many levels to give you the support you need whether it’s commiseration, celebration, or especially navigation of the author world. The added exposure doesn’t hurt either.
PJH: Though I absolutely loved being a debut author, I’m really thrilled with all the experience I’ve gained since. What advice would you give to those who are debuting now? What do you wish you had known when you started out?
JF: You cannot and should not know and do everything; therefore,
Do not obsess focus so much on the factors you can’t control. I’d always heard you can’t build a career waiting for reviews or suggesting schemes to your publisher’s marketing department. Of course you want to, and of course, that type of support helps. So while I still try to reach teachers, librarians and booksellers, I work even more (as my wise editor suggested) on the most important task – writing an excellent next book.
PJH: In addition to writing the next mega-million bestselling novel, what do you want to accomplish in the next five years? Do you want to write five more books? Get your black belt in Kung Fu? Walk the Great Wall of China? Let’s hear it.
JF: I’ve always wanted to try my hand at writing a romantic-comedy for the big screen. I’ve always wanted to eat pasta in Italy and spend a week on a wind-swept terrace in the South of France. I’ve always wanted to paint something, and I’m not talking about a wall or ceiling or house exterior. All of which could happen in the next five years. Or maybe something else will instead.
THE GOLLYWHOPPER GAMES by Jody Feldman (Greenwillow, March 4, 2008)PJH: Anything else you want to add? Five reasons to read your book? A picture of your writing space? How you celebrated when you signed your contract? Your choice!
JF: This business has its mysterious ways. I wrote The Gollywhopper Games as a stand-alone. Okay. Yes, of course, I daydreamed about writing a follow-up, but never seriously. And never did a Book 3 creep into in my greatest dreams. But one librarian read the book and suggested it here and there, and this little book that could found its way onto one state list then 16 or so, and that generated enough steam to warrant a couple sequels. Who knew? I sure didn’t. I just wanted to write a book that some kid might want to read all the way through.
PJH: Thank you so much for being here! And good luck with everything in the future!
****
Bio:
Jody Feldman blames her 7th grade English teacher (justly or not) for turning her away from writing, yet the world mysteriously led her back. She is the author of The Seventh Level and The Gollywhopper Games. Coming soon, Gollywhopper 2 & 3 (HarperCollins/Greenwillow). You can find her in St. Louis, MO, at www.jodyfeldman.com or as jodyfeldman on Twitter.
*****
Thanks for helping me celebrate former debuts! And if you are a former debut and are interested in being featured, check out this post here!
September 25, 2012
What I'm Reading: RENEGADE by J. A. Souders
From the second I saw this in the Tor Teen Book Buzz at ALA Midwinter, I wanted to read it. Not only did it sound fantastic, it looked fantastic (see (1) below). So color me excited when I got my hands on a sweet ARC to read!
RENEGADE by J. A. Souders (Tor Teen, November 13, 2012)
Here are five things I have to say about RENEGADE:
1) I adore this cover! It's seriously one of the most intriguing (and beautiful) covers I've seen in ages. From the colors to the hair, dress, and body language of the girl, it completely drew me in and made me want to read it.
2) There is repetition in the novel done for effect, and I loved it. Seriously, it brought a smile to my face as I turned the page and started the new chapter. I enjoyed looking for the small changes and seeing where the story diverged. And it totally helped me understand and sympathize with the main character, Evelyn.
3) So I'm guessing this is the start of a trilogy, and lots of times, in the first book of a trilogy, we're left wondering at the end, "how did things ever get like this?" It made me so happy that RENEGADE explained the world and how it had come to be in its current dystopic state. Sure, that may change or we may not have the whole truth, but for now, I have my explanation and am happy.
4) I have to mention the romance, because I really loved seeing how the main characters were pushed/pulled together. I enjoyed watching their trust of each other grow alongside their feelings. Neither character is perfect. Both have some serious issues. But together, they are fabulous!
5) It's like MATCHED meets SERENITY, under the ocean. RENEGADE is packed with adventure, betrayal, deception, and romance. Highly recommended for girls (and boys who enjoy this type of book), seventh grade and up, fans of dystopian fiction!
ADD IT TO YOUR GOODREADS TBR LIST NOW!
Source of book: From publisher by request
From Amazon:
Since the age of three, sixteen-year-old Evelyn Winters has trained to be Daughter of the People in the underwater utopia known as Elysium. Selected from hundreds of children for her ideal genes, all her life she's believed that everything is perfect. Her world. Her people. The Law. But when Gavin Hunter, a Surface Dweller, accidentally stumbles into Elysium's secluded little world, Evelyn comes to a startling realization: Everything she knows is a lie. Her memories have been altered. Her mind and body aren't under her own control. And the person she knows as Mother is a monster. Together with Gavin she plans her escape, only to learn that her own mind is a ticking time bomb...and Mother has one last secret that will destroy them all.
RENEGADE by J. A. Souders (Tor Teen, November 13, 2012)
Here are five things I have to say about RENEGADE:
1) I adore this cover! It's seriously one of the most intriguing (and beautiful) covers I've seen in ages. From the colors to the hair, dress, and body language of the girl, it completely drew me in and made me want to read it.
2) There is repetition in the novel done for effect, and I loved it. Seriously, it brought a smile to my face as I turned the page and started the new chapter. I enjoyed looking for the small changes and seeing where the story diverged. And it totally helped me understand and sympathize with the main character, Evelyn.
3) So I'm guessing this is the start of a trilogy, and lots of times, in the first book of a trilogy, we're left wondering at the end, "how did things ever get like this?" It made me so happy that RENEGADE explained the world and how it had come to be in its current dystopic state. Sure, that may change or we may not have the whole truth, but for now, I have my explanation and am happy.
4) I have to mention the romance, because I really loved seeing how the main characters were pushed/pulled together. I enjoyed watching their trust of each other grow alongside their feelings. Neither character is perfect. Both have some serious issues. But together, they are fabulous!
5) It's like MATCHED meets SERENITY, under the ocean. RENEGADE is packed with adventure, betrayal, deception, and romance. Highly recommended for girls (and boys who enjoy this type of book), seventh grade and up, fans of dystopian fiction!
ADD IT TO YOUR GOODREADS TBR LIST NOW!
Source of book: From publisher by request
From Amazon:
Since the age of three, sixteen-year-old Evelyn Winters has trained to be Daughter of the People in the underwater utopia known as Elysium. Selected from hundreds of children for her ideal genes, all her life she's believed that everything is perfect. Her world. Her people. The Law. But when Gavin Hunter, a Surface Dweller, accidentally stumbles into Elysium's secluded little world, Evelyn comes to a startling realization: Everything she knows is a lie. Her memories have been altered. Her mind and body aren't under her own control. And the person she knows as Mother is a monster. Together with Gavin she plans her escape, only to learn that her own mind is a ticking time bomb...and Mother has one last secret that will destroy them all.
September 24, 2012
Creepy Dolls: A Writing Guide
I posted this last week over on the ADR3NALIN3 blog, but in case you missed it, here it is!
***
Possibly we all have one. The doll that creeps every single person who walks into the house out. Yes, my kids have had friends sleep over who have asked to be driven home in the middle of the night because of said doll.
“Wait, what?” my mom says. “I bought you that Jeri Anne doll from J. C. Penney years ago. I thought you loved her.”
Well, the truth is that she scares everyone. My daughter’s friends ask to have her not only moved out of the bedroom, but moved far, far away. Best if she’s up high on a shelf where she can’t get to anyone. My son’s friends insist she looks like a clown. A very scary clown.
But she’s only a doll. A sweet, little doll.
Okay, she is freaking creepy.
What is it about dolls that adds the complete creep factor?
I've decided to categorize dolls into a few categories for easy reference when you are including them in your next novel.
1) THE PRETTY DOLL
Imagine 21" Madame Alexander dolls when you think of this one. These dolls are trendy. They are dressed in the latest fashions. Their hair is styled exquisitely and may have jeweled barrettes holding it in perfect place. (btw, never brush this doll's hair.) They have fancy names like Scarlett and Cissy and Jacqueline. They know they are better than all the other doll.
Because of the beautiful nature of this doll, she is the creepiest when dripping with blood, has messed up hair, and when her gorgeous clothes have been torn. Her clothes may hand in rags on her, her panty hose may be snagged, but she always maintains something to show her beauty, such as the rhinestone barrette in her messed-up hair. It is the small, beautiful details that will stick with readers long after they have turned out the light.
Part of my personal doll collection...in my bedroom.I've only had a handful of nightmares.Yes, I do have Star Trek Barbie and Ken.
2) THE FAMILY HEIRLOOM
This is the doll with the missing eyeballs and patchy hair. Her clothes may be long gone. She may have lived in a smoking house and have yellow stains from cigarette smoke. Her face may be bleached from the sun. Every single person who comes in the house averts their eyes when they see this doll, because why would anyone have her? She should have been land fill fodder long ago. But, by God, she is an antique, and there is no way her family is getting rid of her. She may have even come over on the Titanic and made it into a lifeboat.
In scary stories, this doll is best for close-up shots. She is already creepy enough without having to do anything extra special. Focus on the empty eye-socket. Use her to build up the creep factor before anything else happens.
Possibly we can superglue her?
3) THE POSED DOLL
This doll is taken care of so well, the family dog is jealous. She is dressed in perfect period clothes. She has a perfect period family, all dressed in clothes to compliment hers. She is always posed in a way that screams, "I am so sick of sitting here in this same rocking chair. Please free me." Her dress never has a wrinkle in it. It is steam ironed nightly and she is dusted with only the finest feather duster. Wherever she sits is not acceptable seating for guests. She gets first dibs.
Because of this infinite stage of posing, this doll is creepiest when her head spins around. Or when she suddenly is not in the same rocking chair she was in before but has somehow moved across the room to hang with the other dolls. She is subtle. It may take a few movements on her part to finally get noticed. And by then, it will be too late.
Do you think the tea is cold yet?
4) THE FRIEND DOLL
If you have a girl child, this is the doll she may consider her best friend. It may dress like her. It may look like her. You have probably spent many a hard-earned dollar making sure this doll makes your daughter happy. Your child may have tea parties and invite friends over with similar dolls so they can all play together. This doll goes on playdates with your child. This doll is almost like your child.
Because this doll is like a best friend, betrayal becomes the scariest thing. When this doll turns creepy, she begins to talk. She threatens her owner. She repeats canned phrases over and over again in the most horrific way. She does not want to be like her owner. She wants her own identity. She is sick of tea parties and matching clothes. This doll wants revenge.
Got any more categories for me? I'd love to hear them.
And for those who can't get enough dolls, I leave you with...
CREEPY-ASS DOLLS by Stacey Leigh Brooks (Krause Publications, May 8, 2011)
DIARY OF A CREEPY-ALL DOLL by Stacey Leigh Brooks (Krause Publications, July 31, 2012)
Okay, this Tumblr cracks me the heck up!
***
Possibly we all have one. The doll that creeps every single person who walks into the house out. Yes, my kids have had friends sleep over who have asked to be driven home in the middle of the night because of said doll.
“Wait, what?” my mom says. “I bought you that Jeri Anne doll from J. C. Penney years ago. I thought you loved her.”
Well, the truth is that she scares everyone. My daughter’s friends ask to have her not only moved out of the bedroom, but moved far, far away. Best if she’s up high on a shelf where she can’t get to anyone. My son’s friends insist she looks like a clown. A very scary clown.
But she’s only a doll. A sweet, little doll.
Okay, she is freaking creepy.What is it about dolls that adds the complete creep factor?
I've decided to categorize dolls into a few categories for easy reference when you are including them in your next novel.
1) THE PRETTY DOLL
Imagine 21" Madame Alexander dolls when you think of this one. These dolls are trendy. They are dressed in the latest fashions. Their hair is styled exquisitely and may have jeweled barrettes holding it in perfect place. (btw, never brush this doll's hair.) They have fancy names like Scarlett and Cissy and Jacqueline. They know they are better than all the other doll.
Because of the beautiful nature of this doll, she is the creepiest when dripping with blood, has messed up hair, and when her gorgeous clothes have been torn. Her clothes may hand in rags on her, her panty hose may be snagged, but she always maintains something to show her beauty, such as the rhinestone barrette in her messed-up hair. It is the small, beautiful details that will stick with readers long after they have turned out the light.
Part of my personal doll collection...in my bedroom.I've only had a handful of nightmares.Yes, I do have Star Trek Barbie and Ken.2) THE FAMILY HEIRLOOM
This is the doll with the missing eyeballs and patchy hair. Her clothes may be long gone. She may have lived in a smoking house and have yellow stains from cigarette smoke. Her face may be bleached from the sun. Every single person who comes in the house averts their eyes when they see this doll, because why would anyone have her? She should have been land fill fodder long ago. But, by God, she is an antique, and there is no way her family is getting rid of her. She may have even come over on the Titanic and made it into a lifeboat.
In scary stories, this doll is best for close-up shots. She is already creepy enough without having to do anything extra special. Focus on the empty eye-socket. Use her to build up the creep factor before anything else happens.
Possibly we can superglue her?3) THE POSED DOLL
This doll is taken care of so well, the family dog is jealous. She is dressed in perfect period clothes. She has a perfect period family, all dressed in clothes to compliment hers. She is always posed in a way that screams, "I am so sick of sitting here in this same rocking chair. Please free me." Her dress never has a wrinkle in it. It is steam ironed nightly and she is dusted with only the finest feather duster. Wherever she sits is not acceptable seating for guests. She gets first dibs.
Because of this infinite stage of posing, this doll is creepiest when her head spins around. Or when she suddenly is not in the same rocking chair she was in before but has somehow moved across the room to hang with the other dolls. She is subtle. It may take a few movements on her part to finally get noticed. And by then, it will be too late.
Do you think the tea is cold yet?4) THE FRIEND DOLL
If you have a girl child, this is the doll she may consider her best friend. It may dress like her. It may look like her. You have probably spent many a hard-earned dollar making sure this doll makes your daughter happy. Your child may have tea parties and invite friends over with similar dolls so they can all play together. This doll goes on playdates with your child. This doll is almost like your child.
Because this doll is like a best friend, betrayal becomes the scariest thing. When this doll turns creepy, she begins to talk. She threatens her owner. She repeats canned phrases over and over again in the most horrific way. She does not want to be like her owner. She wants her own identity. She is sick of tea parties and matching clothes. This doll wants revenge.
Got any more categories for me? I'd love to hear them.
And for those who can't get enough dolls, I leave you with...
CREEPY-ASS DOLLS by Stacey Leigh Brooks (Krause Publications, May 8, 2011)
DIARY OF A CREEPY-ALL DOLL by Stacey Leigh Brooks (Krause Publications, July 31, 2012)
Okay, this Tumblr cracks me the heck up!
