Back to the Books Giveaway Hop. September 1 – 7

 Welcome to Back To Books Giveaway Hop

September 1^st – 7^th 2011

                                                                  Co-hosted by I am a reader, not a writer and Heather @ Buried in Books

There will be 1 winner for this Hop USA ONLY

Prize Pack is 5 Children’s books

 

The Night Before Big School – Janie and her brother, Teddy, are so excited they can hardly sleep. What will the teacher be like? Will the two children make friends? Will they have fun? Or will it be scary?

 

Middle School the Worst Years of My Life -  Rafe Khatchadorian has enough problems at home without throwing his first year of middle school into the mix. Luckily, he’s got an ace plan for the best year ever, if only he can pull it off: With his best friend Leonardo the Silent awarding him points, Rafe tries to break every rule in his school’s oppressive Code of Conduct. Chewing gum in class-5,000 points! Running in the hallway-10,000 points! Pulling the fire alarm-50,000 points! But when Rafe’s game starts to catch up with him, he’ll have to decide if winning is all that matters, or if he’s finally ready to face the rules, bullies, and truths he’s been avoiding.

Nikki Maxwell has been doing everything she can to keep everyone at school from learning the truth–that she’s there on scholarship in exchange for her Dad working as the school’s exterminator. The last thing Nikki needs is having her friends and–worst case scenario–her crush, Brandon, associating her with the humongous roach on top of her Dad’s van! Now it looks like her secret could be about to come out, and Nikki’s willing to go to any zany and wacky length to prevent that from happening.  

Big Nate, a.k.a. middle schooler Nate Wright, is eleven years old, four-and-a-half feet tall, Nate is a self-described genius and a sixth-grade Renaissance man equipped with only a #2 pencil and the unshakable belief that he is destined for greatness (a fortune cookie told him so). He fights a daily battle against overzealous teachers, undercooked cafeteria food, and all-around conventionality. He’s the original rebel without a clue, alternately abrasive and endearing to classmates and teachers alike.

 

Precious Girls Club. A Little Bit of Faith – Katie Bennett is new in town and just can’t seem to make friends. But she does have one very angelic best friend- Faith. The problem is, no one else can see her. When Katie’s mom and aunt suggest that she start the Precious Girls Club, Katie needs a little bit of faith to believe in herself. Will she be able to convince the girls at her school to attend? Maybe if she puts up bright posters, makes pretty friendship bracelets or lets it slip (oops!) that she has her very own guardian angel. Find out how Katie discovers that a little bit of faith can help her overcome big challenges.

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This giveaway close at midnight on Sunday, September 7^th  and the winner will be selected at random.org and post noon September 8^th  

This giveaway Hop has ended!

Book Review and Giveaway: Rock & Rhino Learn Responsibility. Ends Sept 14th

Rock and Rhino Learn Responsibility by Margie Taylor Lisbona & Brock Pfannenstiel illustrated by JP Roberts.

Have YOU ever met a “Rhino?” Have you ever witnessed a child who is being unmanageable and out of control? Perhaps you’ve seen this “Rhino” in an airport, restaurant, public event or even in their own home. If your answer is a resounding “YES,” then this book series is made just for you!

The tired and frustrated parent/guardian is ready for a better way of “training up” their children, overcoming behavioral and organizational issues. A voice to help guide them along the way. The first book in the series is “Rock & Rhino Learn Responsibility.” This book offers an exciting and engaging way for kids to have fun and learn at the same time.

The book is divided into three parts showcasing the lovable and quirky Rock & Rhino demonstrating fun and easy examples of what to do, and what not to do, in everyday childhood situations. The third part of the book is for “adults only.” This will give you a “Treasure Trove” of information, plus the tools needed to fix the inappropriate behavior. The result will be happier kids and parents! The ultimate goal is for your children to be “ROCKSTARS” and not “Whiney Rhineys!”

My Review: Rock and Rhino Learn Responsibility is the first book of the ten book series by Margie Taylor Lisbona.  

This is a self help book of responsibility and organizational skills for parent and child. The author uses the character Rhino and Rock to show children the important of responsibility.

Rhino is a Rhinoceros who is always having problems being organized and responsible. He rather plays outside with his friends than take the trash out. His toys are all over the house and his room is always a mess that that he has problem finding things he needs. And because he doesn’t listen to his parents he has to do timeout which makes him unhappy. Unlike his friend Rock the Chicken, Rock is always happy, his father and mother teaches him how to be organized. His room is always clean and his toys and books are neatly put away. He knows that he has to do his chores before he goes outside to play. The author also listed a few things parents can teach their child. The illustrations by JP Roberts help tell the story. I highly recommend this book for parents and classroom teaching.

Ages: 4 -8

Pages: 48

FTC Disclosure: I received a review copy of this book from the author in exchange for a fair and honest review. I was not monetarily compensated for my opinion in any way.

Giveaway (US ONLY) – There will be ONLY 1 Winner

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Comments like these would be deleted – Great contest, Please enter me, Love to win this!, This is so cute! So please leave a helpful comment relating to this book.

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http://mymcbooks.wordpress.com/2011/08/31/interview-with-margie-taylor-lisbona/

 

Have you left a comment on the author's interview link? Yes or No

 

 

Giveaway Ends September 14th @ 12 noon

The winner will be selected via Random.org

 

This giveaway has ended!

Interview with Margie Taylor Lisbona

Margie Taylor Lisbona is a mother and wife to a hilarious and loving family. Her husband Larry and their three children, Beth, Bryan and Betsy, along with daughter-in-law Kristin and son-in-law Shawn, continually keep her on her toes. The best gift that was ever given to Margie was her two SUPER FANTABULOUS grandchildren – Lady Loren Adele and Sir Greyson Paul. They are the very heart of her being. When Lady Loren started talking, Margie became a YaYa, a title that is earned by lots of love, hugs, HI-FIVES and constant attention. Margie’s days are spent writing, baking for the wonderful kids at Prairie Ridge Elementary, or just being herself.

Children have always been a source of energy for Margie. Her love for children is recognized immediately by any child that comes into contact with her. Throughout her life, many people would tell her that she should write a book on how to raise good kids – so one day back in 2006, she started doing just that. The first book “Rock & Rhino Learn Responsibility” which will be released in May 2011, shortly turned into just shy of a dozen books to date.

Margie has no accolades or awards to impress you with at this time, but give her a few months, then reread this bio. She is a determined YaYa with a goal to be obtained. That goal is “KIDS” – they always have been and always will be her only business! http://www.rockandrhino.com/

Interview with Margie Taylor Lisbona author of Rock & Rhino Learn Responsibility

I want to thank you for being my guest here on Mymcbooks Blog

 

What is the last book you read? Well, since I have been writing the “Rock and Rhino”series since 2006 I will have to say “See the USA the Rock and Rhino Way”. (Although, it is not yet published, but that is what I have been reading and reading and rereading.  

 

 

What were your earliest memories of writing? I am not the author that had visions of becoming a famous world renowned writer since I learned to write my first word in the first grade. On the contrary, I NEVER saw myself as an author! Honest! I was and still am a bit of a ‘Rhino’ you see. To answer your question in a timeline – I would have to say when I was 52 years old. 

 

Were you encouraged to write or was it something that came natural? I had this little niggle in my head back in 2006 of a desire to help parents and ‘show and tell’ kids how to become a Rock and not a Rhino. A ‘niggle’ to me is  burning thoughts that were rolling around in my head and one day, I just sat down and started writing these niggles down on paper. When there got to be to many papers laying on my desk, I turned on my computer and transferred all that information into my first book. For many, many years adults would say “Margie, your kids are so awesome, you need to write a book on how to raise good kids”. So with my niggle and people’s request – I did just that.

 

Are you working on a new book? Yes, I am finishing up a wonderful book on the Geography of the United States. Learning the states and capitals has always been a tough go for a lot of kids. “See the USA the Rock and Rhino Way” is full of nemonic helpers for anyone that has a bit of trouble remembering how to spell the names. (I know I did when I was a kid – wish Rock and Rhino had been around when I needed them).  

 

What inspired you to write Rock and Rhino? I have a great nephew that I took care of before and after school, along with my almost 90 year old mother. Brock was a real, true to life ‘Rhino’ and my inspiration to start writing. I had to put some order into my life to make our situation work and save our sanity. Rock had potential of becoming a Rockstar, with a gentle help-push from his “Greatest” Aunt Margie. He is now entering Middle School and as he says, “I am living proof that this book really works”. I love that kid!

 

How did you come up with each characters? They just come to life in my head. Rock is a chicken kid – a very cute chicken kid – a child that follows the rules, a child that adults look at and wish their child was like Rock. Rock does it the right way and is a ROCKSTAR. Most people would think that a chicken is afraid of everything – but Rock shows children that being called a ‘chicken’ is a good thing. Rhino is a rhinoceros kid – loveable and always doing things the wrong way. We love you Rhino, but boy do you need a lot of practice to become a ROCKSTAR.  I’ll tell you a secret. I think my “secretidento” had something to do with making up the characters. Someday I’ll tell you all about “secretidento”, but not today. Each and every character in my books are very special to me – they all have touched my heart at one time or another in my life.

 

What was your favorite children’s book? I didn’t have a favorite children’s book. I did however, love fairy tales. Hansel and Gretel was my all time fav.

 

Have you ever suffered from writer’s block? I don’t believe in ‘writer’s block. I do believe that your brain gets tired. I just exercise or play with my grandkids and then get back to writing. It’s there – you just have to rest your imagination sometimes.  

 

 

What is the most difficult part of writing? Keeping my focus on what I am writing. I tend to get off track and start writing other stories. I have to turn my recorder on, tell it my new thoughts,  then get back to the business at hand. (I told you about that ‘secretidento’ – it gives me a whale of a fit sometimes.)

 

What do you do when you’re not writing or promoting your books? I do a lot of things. My most ‘special time’ is the time that I spend with my grandkids Loren and Greyson. They are ROCKSTARS and just crack this YaYa up when we are together. Since ‘kids’ are the love of my life, I bake all kinds of good things to eat at our local elementary school. Yes, I am ‘The Lunch Lady’.  I also ride a tractor. I love to mow. I think and think when I mow – I get a lot of good ideas when I do this. 

 

How do you react to a bad review? This is hard to answer, since I have not had a bad review yet. When I do get one – I’ll look at what the person has to say, think it over, pick out the good pieces and move forward. 

 

What do you hope that readers will take away from your book? That there is no such thing as a ‘bad’ kid. There are only parents, guardians and or teachers that just need a gentle reminder on how to show kids that they can ALL be ROCKSTARS. Learning this has to start early, before the ‘ways of the world’ take over in their little minds.  Let kids be kids – not little adults, there is a lifetime of being an adult, but such a little amount of time to be a kid. Kids are our bestest gift in the world – with patience and repetition we can change behavior – ONE BEAUTIFUL CHILD AT A TIME!

 

Who are some of your favorite authors you would love to dine with? Bill Cosby! I have admired this man for almost all my life. (he is quite a bit older than me – he,he, he)  His love for all kids is unique and heart-able.

 

What discipline do you impose on yourself regarding schedules, goals, etc.? I don’t pressure myself ever. I let God drive my bus.  I have never missed a stop yet. My goals are to touch as many children’s lives as I possibly can in my lifetime – to love them, nurture them and encourage them. As I move forward – I am just a YaYa – no pressure!

 

What advice would you give parents on selecting the right books for their children to read? Wow, this is a hard question. There are so many books out there – some for the right reason and some for the not so right reason. Some good and some not so good. I guess I would say – keep your child’s best interest at heart. When you have selected a book, be sure that it leaves a ‘positive’ for your child to think about. 

 

What advice you would give to new writers? Don’t EVER give up on your dream. If it is meant to be, it will be.  Look deep into your soul and if you have a burning desire to share something, then stay on it until you succeed.

 

Is there anything else you would like to share with our readers? Just love your children. When they are born, put yourself upstairs in the attic for the next 18 years. Spend all your efforts, time and patience to raise the best child yet. You won’t regret it – not for one minute!

 

Thank you for this interview.

Winners of Not Fat Because I wanna Be,Sunny Numbers and The Handkerchief Quilt

Congratulations to the Winners of  Not Fat Because I wanna Be,Sunny Numbers and The Handkerchief Quilt.

 

 

 

The Winners were selected using Random.org

#1 – Krystallarson winner of Not Fat Because I Wanna Be!

#11 – Stephanie Barmann winner of Sunny Numbers

#20 – Anneke winner of The Handkerchief Quilt

Winners has been notified. Thanks to all who took part in this giveaway.

Check back for giveaways going on now or coming soon!

Back to the Books Giveaway Hop September 1st – 7th

4 Charles Dickens books. 1 a week giveaway – Classics 4 Kids Giveaway September 4^th – 30^th

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Tina Peterson
Omaha, NE, United States
An Educational Consultant with Usborne Books and More – the Books Kids Love to Read! http://www.MyUsborneBooks.com Find me at: http://www.familyliteracyandyou.blogspot.com/ Focusing on close family relationships through Faith, Reading and Activities.

Jacquitta McManus
Douglasville, Georgia
I started writing children stories years ago, it came out of a desire to create characters I felt my daughter could relate to. It also came from a desire to create stories that would excite her imagination when she laid in bed at night.

Inspired by a passion to create great and exciting adventures that pushes the imagination and creates worlds of enchantment for people around the world. I’m proud to announce that I’m launching of my debut MagBook, Labyrinth’s Door. For more information:

http://www.worldstodiscover.com/

Karla Trotman is the owner of BellyButtonBoutique.com, LLC. Her background in supply chain logistics and degree in business logistics is the foundation for her business. The inspiration stems from two incredibly difficult and uncomfortable pregnancies. She is now the mother of two healthy preschoolers who she says are “insane”. Life is always crazy, but she is able to laugh at each experience that she and her husband survive.

A third generation generation entrepreneur, Karla finds the time to blog about industry trends, owning a business, being a mom and just life in general.
http://site.bellybuttonboutique.com/blog/

Angie Sternberg
Lake Worth, FL
Owner and designer of The Diaper Baker, an online company specializing in unique tiered diaper cakes and baby shower gifts. Every mother-to-be receives the same gifts at her baby shower. Although the style of the layette may change over time, one thing that hasn’t changed is the predictability. One can pretty much guarantee to see the same products given at the next baby shower they attend.

Wouldn’t you like to give a gift that would be the highlight of the baby shower? A present that is original, practical, and guaranteed not to be duplicated? A gift that will never be forgotten? A special creation designed especially for both… baby and mom-to-be!

http://www.thediaperbaker.com/

Dr. Prakash Dheeriya
Rancho Palos Verdes, CA

A Professor of Finance at California State University-Dominguez Hills. He has been teaching finance and investments for over two decades. Dr. Dheeriya has several publications in the field of financial markets. A frequent speaker at conferences, chambers of commerce and rotary clubs, he has received several research awards, has over 30 refereed publications to his credit. To read more visit http://www.finance4kidz.com/

Ingrid Stauffer
Hemet, Ca

SOCKOES was born at the beginning of 2009 as a solution to the one of many children’s needs.

I am a mother of four beautiful, active, girls that love to play outside wearing just there socks. In an attempt to help keep the house clean, our family has a rule that no one is allowed to wear shoes inside of the house. This has created a problem with the little ones. My two youngest do not know how to put their own shoes on, and consequently run out of the house in just their socks. Although my two oldest girls know how to put their shoes on, nine times out of ten, they are too lazy to do so. As a result, we have a huge mountain of soiled socks to wash at the end of the week; of which many pairs are beyond repair. To read more visit http://www.sockoes.blogspot.com/

Cindy Clarke
Richmond, VA

A daughter, wife, and mom (to 4 children from 28 to 2 years old). A Gigi aka grandma (to 1 sweet little boy). I work full time outside the home as well as run 3 businesses with my husband from home. Busy is an understatement!

Motivatioanl Letters Are Here!
Santa knows that the closer you get to Christmas, the more children work to get put on the “Nice” list. Every child wonders whether they are on the “Naughty” or “Nice” list. Now they don’t have to wonder. For more information click on For more information click on http://santassecretary.com/default.asp

About the Author
Jennifer McFadden is currently a student at the University of Phoenix online school, majoring in psychology. She lives in the Houston, Texas area with her husband and two sons. This is her first published book. To know more about the author visit her website http://www.jenniferemcfadden.com/index.html

Kristi Bernard
Overland Park, KS

Kristi Bernard writes fiction and non fiction books for children. She is a contributing editor for the National Writing For Children Center and a book reviewer for Tiger Tales Books. A parenting expert for Bizymoms.com in which she provide insigtful articles on parenting and family life. She also love the art of the interview and create articles that capture the essence of human kind as well as provide important and helpful information to the reader. For more information click http://kristisbooknook.blogspot.com/

Margot Finke is an Aussie transplant who writes midgrade adventure fiction and rhyming picture books. For many years she has lived in Oregon with her husband and family. Gardening, travel and reading fill in the cracks between writing. Her husband is very supportive, Their three children are now grown and doing very well, and have provided them with 4 delightful grand- children.
Margot didn’t begin serious writing until the day their youngest left for college. This late start drives her writing, and pushes her to work at it every day. Margot said, “I really envy those who began young, and managed to slip into writing mode between kid fights, diaper changes, household disasters, and outside jobs. You are my heroes! ” Margot is also well known for her Manuscript Critique Services.
Margot’s books strive to HOOK kids on reading – especially reluctant reader boys. Trailers, illos, and sample verses are on her website – Reviews also.
Latest books: “Rattlesnake Jam” and “Ruthie and the Hippo’s Fat Behind.”
http://www.margotfinke.com
http://margotfinke.blogspot.com
http://hookkidsonreading.blogspot.com

LaTersa Blakely
Pittsburgh, PA
United States

Diaper Cakes by LaTersa offer great and custom diaper cakes, towel cakes, and more extra ordinary gifts for all occasions. Diaper Cakes make great centerpieces at the baby shower or simply a beautiful gift for the new mommy. Visit her blog for more information http://www.diapercakesbylatersa.blogspot.com/
http://www.diapercakesbylatersa.com/

 

Epic Press P. O. Box 41624 Austin, Texas 78714-1624

Established in 1999 as the publication division for an education and management consultancy firm, Epic Press expanded its operations in 2007 to include children books and supplemental instruction materials. The impetus for this expansion began when one of Epic Press’s owners, inspired by her granddaughter’s love of books, motivated by her son’s foreign language expertise, and challenged to find relevant learning materials for gifts, penned a book as a present for her granddaughter’s third birthday.

To purchae the Award-winning books Dr. Little’s Tri-Alphabets and More in English • Español • Français

visit  http://www.epic-press.com/purchase-books/

For more information visit http://www.epic-press.com/

This is the website for the award winning children’s book author Dr. Sylvia Hawkins Little

Dr. Little’s Tri-Alphabets And More English· Español· Français

Is a 2009 Moonbeam Children’s Book Medalist. An “a, b, c” introduction to English, Spanish, and French. Readers will learn to identify familiar foods, animals and objects in all three languages. Knowing more than one language enriches vocabulary, improves academic performance, and enhances future work options.

For more information visit http://www.sylviahawkinslittle.com/

Book Review and Giveaway: Bingo’s Big Adventure. Ends Sept 14th

Bingo’s Big Adventure written by Julia King

This is Bingo, the newest cat on our farm. Bingo’s Big Adventure is a children’s book which tells the story of this cat’s first outing to the world around our home. Bingo is a kitty adventurer and has a day exploring the new sights and smells of the great outdoors. He meets another cat who lives on the property and encounters a domineering rooster. He sniffs, watches, and learns about his new world in this story. The story of Bingo’s Big Adventure is told from his point of view and the text is accompanied by vibrant photos showing Bingo in action. His encounters with the other animals on the farm are illustrated through full color prints which beautifully exhibit his new life and adventures.

My Review: Bingo is an adopted cat and Julia King describes the world Bingo lives in through his own eyes. Bingo is curious about his environment and goes out exploring the farm on which he now lives. He founds out first that there are no dogs. “Hmm… I think my life is going to be fun” said Bingo. On his adventures, he met Jimmy the cat for the first time, chickens and a mean looking rooster named Danish Leghorn.

The photographs are amazing and stunning. After you have read the story you will keep turning the pages over and over again. I like that this book encourages children to explore their surrounding. They never know what they will find.

 Ages: 4 -8

Pages: 36

FTC Disclosure: I received a review copy of this book from the author in exchange for a fair and honest review. I was not monetarily compensated for my opinion in any way.

 

 

Giveaway (US ONLY) – There will be ONLY 1 Winner

Giveaway Guidelines and Disclaimer

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Comments like these would be deleted – Great contest, Please enter me, Love to win this!, This is so cute! So please leave a helpful comment relating to this book.

PLEASE FOLLOW ALL MANDATORY RULES – Rules not followed will be deleted immediately.

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http://mymcbooks.wordpress.com/2011/08/30/interview-with-author-julia-king/

Giveaway Ends September 14th @ 12 noon

The winner will be selected via Random.org

 

This giveaway has ended!

Interview with Author Julia King

Biography

Julia King is a botanist turned children’s book author with years of experience in chasing toddlers around while naming plants by their Latin names.  Her children ages 6 and 4 inspired her to write and illustrate stories that would appeal to other kids and make them want to pick up a book.  Julia is an avid proponent of reading to children when they are tiny tots and wants to foster a passionate love of books and animals in kids, so they learn to read well and understand the natural world around them.
Julia summarized her philosophy about kids in relationship to Bingo’s Big Adventure saying, “I want kids to make an ‘adventure’ in their own back yard, no matter how small. Children need to go outside and find their limits. They should have fun watching, inspecting and questioning things within their world. I think that Bingo can lead the way. . .”

With 15 years of experience in the field of environmental consulting Julia has honed her ability to tell stories about the physical world through her photographs and accompanying text. She has been a passionate writer since her youth and has taken her photography to the next level through detail in composition and subject matter.

Julia has spent the bulk of her working years observing plants, animals, and the environment with the purpose of detailed analysis in technical report and permit writing. Her children’s story has developed through her interaction with her own two children and her experiences with their learning behaviors and beginning school. With an academic focus being pressed upon children at an early age, their playtime is cut short, and they are not aloud to be adventurous. Julia wants to give kids a window back into playtime, encourage their exploration of the natural world, and give them the opportunity to make decisions by them selves. Bingo’s Big Adventure is Julia’s first leap at giving back to kids a taste of this kind of childhood. To read more visit author’s blog http://www.bingoadventures.com/p/about-author.html

Interview with Julia King author of Bingo’s Big Adventure.

I want to thank you for being my guest here on Mymcbooks Blog

What is the last book you read?

The last “adult” book I read was The Forgotten Garden by Kate Morton.

What were your earliest memories of writing?

I clearly remember the brown paper with teal lines framing that dotted line down the middle.  It was the train track to distinguish capitals and lower case letters…In first grade we began to write words.  That was fun and I felt a light bulb glowing in my brain.  When I went to my son’s 1st grade classroom this year and saw his folded brown papers it brought flashbacks about my own first attempts at writing.  I realized that I was getting to be a good writer in about the seventh grade in my English class when I could finish my writing earlier than others and my older sister, four years my senior, would say, “YOU did not write that!” 

Were you encouraged to write or was it something that came natural?

Writing came naturally to me and I did not struggle with it.  Writing has always been like a puzzle or fun challenge for me.  I like to see how many ways I can approach a topic or story.  Whose voice can I use?  What feelings can I evoke?  Spelling however has always been my nemesis, but I would choose writing over spelling if given the choice. I do remember that when I was in high school my literature and composition teachers were encouraging me to stretch myself further though, so I can’t say I had no encouragement.   

Are you working on a new book?

I’m currently working on two new children’s picture books.  The second book in the “Bingo” series called Bingo Explores the Farm is in final production stages.  I have the first eight pages of How to Play in the Mud under my belt and will keep “slogging” along with it.     

What inspired you to write Bingo’s Big Adventure?

My inspiration for Bingo’s Big Adventure came from the photographs that I was taking on the first day that I let Bingo out of the house after adopting him.  He’d been locked inside for about a month and we determined it was long enough.  That morning, I happened to be taking pictures of my kids and saw that the cat was doing “great” stuff so I just started snapping.  I really had no idea that I was going to make the pictures into a book until a few weeks later when I was browsing through them on my computer.  They were so vivid and animated and Bingo had “expression” that I had not captured in other cats I had before.  I actually made a blog post first with a story about Bingo’s first out ting and it just developed from there.

On the text or story side of the equation, I had been reading to my kids since they were born and we are picture book junkies.  It felt quite natural to move into writing children’s stories after so much reading out loud to my own kids.  So I think I can attribute my fundamental inspiration for writing to the presence of my own kids in my life.

How did you come up with each characters?

 I did not really have to make up characters since I pulled the personality of each animal from what they normally exhibit in their own, real, and natural daily life.  Each of the characters in Bingo’s Big Adventure, Bingo, Jimmy and Mr. D, have innate qualities that I was trying to capture in the story.  So I guess in a way this story crosses over into a little bit of “non-fiction.”

Have you ever suffered from writer’s block?

Not very often.  I find that on any particular day I can start composing and generating text.

What is the most difficult part of writing?

For me the most difficult part of writing is finding the time to write when I have the “good energy” going like in the mornings.  I find my clearest thoughts in that8 to 12 amblock of time.  With two young kids, horses and a small farm there is the pressing need to balance everybody and not sacrifice too much anywhere.  When my kids are playing well I can get work done but there are days when that just does not happen.  As a result I often end up working at night after the kids go to sleep.

What do you do when you’re not writing or promoting your books?

 I think it’s more like when do I find time to squeezing in time to write and promote…   (LOL). When I am not doing “book work” I take care of my kids and do family stuff.  I also work part time as an environmental consultant doing botany surveys or wetland delineations. I love finding new things to photograph, so I am always trying to develop new techniques for better shots.  I work on composition in my photography to make interesting pictures. Gardening is up there on my favorite things too, but I seem to be having a chronic battle with snails…..

How do you react to a bad review?

If I did not get a bad review now and again I would think something was not right in the universe.  There is always the good with bad, beauty vs the grotesque, kindness vs malice and so on.  Everyone has a right to their opinion and should express it as such, especially if you are soliciting a response from reviewers.     

What do you hope that readers will take away from your book?

I want readers to see beauty in nature; I would like kids to see some thing in life and question it; I hope parents would find a way to let kids push their limits and find their own answers sometimes. If kids are allowed to push themselves a little beyond their comfort zone, they figure out answers for themselves, which can be much more valuable then always being told what will happen.  I would love for a kid who lives in the city to go outside and be full of questions about their surroundings and find the answers themselves (or with a little help from adults or even better other kids).  I hope readers and those who are read to get inspired to explore . . . then of course come back to a “safe” place like home.

Who are some of your favorite authors you would love to dine with?

I can easily say that my favorite authors (in no particular order) include Patricia Pollacco, Kirk Cyrus, Bill Peet, Margaret Wise-Brown and Jill Barklem.  Polacco infuses real and fundamental feelings in her books.  Cyrus’s illustrations have amazing eye appeal with realistic portraits of his subjects and beautiful poetic text.  Peet does not have limits on vocabulary and provides kids with new words and sentence structure.  Wise-Brown has a way with word combinations and imagery that I love.  Barklem writes intricate stories with layers and her illustrations consist of wonderfully delicate drawings.

What discipline do you impose on yourself regarding schedules, goals, etc.?

With my children being a huge priority, I don’t impose strict limits on my schedules but set up goals based on 30-60 day schedules.  I also give myself the freedom to let a book sit for a few weeks then go back to editing with fresh eyes.  To pound myself into a factory schedule would result in my best work.  This year I will produce galleys for review of the next Bingo book and hopefully if the stars align properly go to the first print run before Christmas.

What advice would you give parents on selecting the right books for their children to read?

What I have done in regard to book selection with my kids seems to have worked for they both have been early readers, have a high vocabulary, and excellent comprehension for their ages…Read from birth.  Seriously.  Talking to the babies from their early beginnings makes a difference since it establishes a pattern of reading and what reading time IS.  And reading to the kids in an adult voice, not a baby voice makes a difference.  Sit and read for as long as possible with your kids every, EVERY day.  If you are consistent with story time, kids sit and listen for as long as you read to them.  Ok that was nothing about selecting books….  On selecting books…choose new books for your children’s library by selecting stories with different styles and word arrangements from each other.  Books with different points of view, varied characters, and different artistic styles provide variety for kids and keep them interested in their story time.  Include books with people and stories about kids, not just talking animals.  I find that my kids are not often the best choosers of stories and that their picks based on a quick visual at the library does not always translate into readability at home or their liking it.   I always skim through stories before putting them into our library bag for check out.  Often I tell them, “Too easy,” or “Not thick enough” about their selection and let them keep choosing until they encounter something that will make the cut.  I guess the main take away is choose books with a variety of stories, interesting text quality, and great visual imagery but that would be over simplification.

What advice you would give to new writers?

Write about those things you know in detail, feel passionately about, make you excited, inspire you, or in other words write about those things which create a palpable feeling inside your body.  Those subjects translate your thoughts and feelings best and are genuine and true to your spirit.  If you have to squeeze or force out the words, maybe you’re going in the wrong direction. If you want to be successful don’t quit.  I am flexible in my overall time schedule but I always find myself working on books 3 or 4 days a week.  You have to keep putting one foot out there to catch yourself before the next step.  Rewrite, erase, change words, be flexible and loose about composition.  Find editors or peers to review your work and take as many comments as possible.  Take constructive criticism and use it to improve your work instead of feeling defensive.   

 

 

Book Review: Paws & Tales by Chuck Swindoll – Putting Others First.

Paws & Tales by Chuck Swindoll – Putting Others First: Biblical Wisdom for Kids

C.J. and Staci have to finish a list of errands for Paw Paw Chuck, but they find themselves falling behind. Just as they are in sight of the deadline, they find an injured skunk. Will they risk disappointing Paw Paw Chuck to help someone in need? (Matthew 22:39)

My Review: The first episode, A Race Against Time is about helping others. Edgar is a skunk who was on his way to deliver pumpkins to Paw Paw Chuck when his cart broke down. He asked C.J. and Staci to help him but they neglected to help because they were already later to the bake sale and were in a hurry to get there.

When Paw Paw Chuck heard that C.J. and Staci did not help Edgar he decided to test them the next day by giving them a list of errands to be delivered on time. Without then knowing he set obstacles in their part to slow them down.  This story is about ‘The Good Samaritan’ and Paw Paw Chuck wanted children to learn a valuable lesson about helping others when they are in need and show kindness. When we are given second chances to help others we should help those in need.

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When it seems as if Tiffany can fire anyone who works for her father, she forces all the kids of Mr. Rockler’s employee to be her personal servants… or else. C.J. decides that Tiffany must be stopped, but can he carry out his plan when he finds out who her next victim might be? (Philippians 2:3)

My Review: The second episode, The Hire Principle. Tiffany is a rich little mean girl who is bent on blackmailing her schoolmates whose parents work for her rich father. If they fail to do as she asked their parents will loose their jobs.  When C.J. found out that his dad would be working for Tiffany’s father his plan to stop Tiffany backfired. To save his father’s job, C.J. decided to do as she wishes by turning up early to carry her pink bag to school and doing her homework.  Finally, Tiffany found out she doesn’t have to power to fire any of the staff. C.J. showed the love of Christ in his action by doing whatever it took to save his father’s job.  I would have loved to see Tiffany rebuked by her father for her bad behavior.  Children will enjoy the adventure stories and learn biblically based concepts like being thankful, overcoming fear, putting others first and obeying God’s rules. This DVD will captivates and equip your child with the essential tools for godly living. I would recommend this DVD to parents.

DVD features two brand new animated episodes with bonus features: music vidoes, activities and helpful teaching resources for parents, grandparents and church educators.

I received a free DVD copy of Paws & Tales from Tyndale House Publishing for the purpose of this review.

Winners of I Remember When.. and Stover Giveaways

Congratulations to the Winners of  I Remember When and  Stover.

 

 

The Winners were selected using Random.org

#1 – Cassandra Van Slyke won When I Remember…

#1 – Rita M won Stover

Winners has been notified. Thanks to all who took part in this giveaway.

Check back for giveaways going on now or coming soon!

Back to the Books Giveaway Hop September 1st – 7th

4 Charles Dickens books. 1 a week giveaway – Classics 4 Kids Giveaway September 4^th – 30^th

Book Review and Giveaway: Sweet Moon Baby: An Adoption Tale. Ends Sept 14th

Sweet Moon Baby: An Adoption Tale written by Karen Henry Clark and Illustrated by Patrice Barton

On a summer night in China, a baby girl was born. She was perfect.

So begins the story of one baby’s journey from her birth parents in China, who dream of a better life for their daughter, to her adoptive parents on the other side of the world, who dream of the life they can give her. A turtle, a peacock, a monkey, a panda, and some fish shepherd the baby as she floats in a basket on a moonlit, winding river into the loving arms of her new parents.

Link to the Youtube: http://youtu.be/6dktVrXxg5E

My Review: I don’t know if you can fall in love with a book but I did when I first read Sweet Moon Baby. Sweet Moon Baby: An Adoption Tale written by Karen Henry Clark is a story of love, hope and faith. This story is about two couples, one who could barely afford to feed themselves and their new born child and the other who wants a baby. As they await the arrival of their baby girl fromChina, they set about preparing for her by planting a fruit tree to building a house with a room just for her.  Back inChina, the child is placed in a basket by her parents as they trusted the moon to guide their baby down the river. As the baby floated away she slept peacefully throughout her journey while her adoptive parents waited.

Anyone would love this book and you don’t have to be adopting a child or have an adopted child to love this book. The watercolor illustration by Patrice Barton captures every scene in the book.  A must have for all parents who are adopting and a perfect bedtime story.

 Ages: 4 -8

Pages: 32

FTC Disclosure: I received a review copy of this book from the author in exchange for a fair and honest review. I was not monetarily compensated for my opinion in any way.

 Giveaway (US ONLY) – There will be ONLY 1 Winner

Giveaway Guidelines and Disclaimer

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Comments like these would be deleted – Great contest, Please enter me, Love to win this! This is so cute! So please leave a helpful comment relating to this book.

PLEASE FOLLOW ALL MANDATORY RULES – Rules not followed will be deleted immediately.

(Rule 4. Winner/winners will be seleted from either the Book review comment field OR from the Author’s interview comment field.)

Mandatory:  You must leave your comments about the review in the comment field below.  Don’t forget to leave your email address for contact if you win. Also…..

Mandatory Entry: Please read the author’s interview and leave a comment also http://mymcbooks.wordpress.com/2011/08/28/interview-with-karen-henry-clark/#respond

 

Giveaway Ends September 14th @ 12 noon

The winner will be selected via Random.org

This giveaway has ended!