c hild re n’s r e a d ing m aga z i ne
Executive Editor/Editor-in-Chief - Laurence O’Bryan Associate Editor - Tanja Slijepčević Production Mananger - Hannah Jenkins Assistant Editor - Elisabeth Schaffalitzky Assistant Editor - Natashia Thewes Graphic Designer - Mirna Gilman
Produced by BooksGoSocial 5 Dame Lane Dublin 2 BooksGoSocial.com Admin@booksgosocial.com
Table of contents
04 Editor’s Letter 07 How to make your Picture book More Interactive 11
10 Amazing Children’s Books
21 An Interview with Lieve Snellings, our Top Voted Children’s Author 2017
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How to make your Picture book More Interactive
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Ways to Help Children Develop Stories
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Eight Tips for Children’s Self-Published Authors on Successful Promotion
Editor’s letter Hi, You are very welcome to our Children’s Reading magazine ‘17! Children’s books are not just for children. Whether you are searching for a great picture book or YA novel for your kids or whether they are for your inner child, we wanted to ease your search with this wonderful issue! In this special number, we included great interviews, book reviews, tips for authors and readers alike and much more. Just before the school starts treat yourself or your kids with some wonderful reading material, download it now and read on your Kindle or other reading device straight away. Don’t miss them.
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We invite you to flip through our pages and engage in this issue with Jeanette Winterstone’s wise quote: “Since JK Rowling’s Harry Potter and Philip Pullman’s His Dark Materials, children’s literature has been repositioned as central, not peripheral, shifting what children read, what we write about what children read, and what we read as adults. At last we seem to understand that imagination is ageless.” We wish you happy reading! And if you have any ideas for articles or things you would like to see covered in our magazines, let me know. Laurence O’Bryan Editor in Chief Children’s Reading Magazine
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children’s books
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How to make your picture book more interactive Book Creator Add images, stickers, cool effects and sounds to your interactive picture book. Design a comic book out of your upcoming work. You can even add existing videos and narration! Find out more on:
https://bookcreator.com/
My Storybook This is a simple and user friendly softvare you can find online. You can add images, draw, add text and items.If you’re new to the online marketing world this is a great tool to start with. Find out more on:
https://www.mystorybook.com/
TigerCreate If you do have a bigger budget to invest in your work, this is a real treat! With TigerCreate sdd images, text, colors and animate your picture book on this cloud based system! Track your followers and everybody who watched your little masterpeace. Find out more on:
https://www.pagetiger.com/
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atavist With drag and drop techniques create beautiful interactive media and unlock your inner digital storyteller. Reviewers and usesers of this genius tool marked Atavist as their favourite for making interactive ebooks and magaziines. Find out more on:
https://atavist.com/
Kindle Kids’ Book Creator Create your children’s book fast and easy with a wide selections of effects ! Import illustrations, text sections, pop-ups and more! Find out more on:
https://kdp.amazon.com/en_US/kids
Flipsnack Import your ebook and add interactive content. Include your book trailer, special promotional material, sounds, narrations and many more with Flipsnack. Free version available for trying out the tool before you buy it. Find out more on:
https://www.flipsnack.com/ 8
Trixie: Tater Crazy, by Angie Murphy A beginning reader children’s book for ages 3-5. This book was designed specifically to engage the young reader by utilizing small words and fun, engaging photos to trigger their imagination and introduce them to the fun of reading. Use it as tool, or catalyst, or as a resource to encouraging a struggling reader. The antics of a 5-year-old tater crazy Jack Russell is both compelling and captivating fun that will keep them tuned in, laughing, and loving!
Reviews: ‘’A great book for new readers! Such cute pictures, the kiddos love Trixie, and insist on reading it over and over and laugh hysterically every time! The wording is perfect, the small words are just enough to be an easy challenge and gives them confidence to try other books. A great tool and resource for the parent or the classroom, this book is a must for any child’s library! ‘’ ‘’Trixie: Tater Crazy is a big hit; our family adores this cute precocious pup! Children just can’t get enough of her. The idea of a tater world is both intriguing and fun. Learning through laughter helps to build confidence, a love of reading, and a love for learning!’’
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My Best Friend, Buddy, by Joseph J. Cacciotti My Best Friend Buddy is about a boy and his dog, and it describes how to take care of your dog. This book consists of 264 words, and it teaches you how to make your dog, your best friend. This is a delightful book for children ages 4 to 10.
Review: What child doesn’t want a pet of their own someday? This book will teach your child how to not only take care of their dog, but how it will become their best friend.
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“Full of endearing little scenes and huggable sheep, this is a great book for any child’s bedtime.” – The Children’s Book Review
★★★★★ - The Book Reviewers ★★★★★ - Readers’ Favorite ★★★★ - The Bookbag Age Level: 3 - 7
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Available in digital and paperback Click here to buy it now!
Is it a spaceship? É uma espaçonave? by Camila Sousa Sakai
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This is a bilingual (Portuguese/English) book. It is a story about a baby who sees amazing things in the sky when his mother lays him down to sleep. All he can see from his crib is a mobile with animals that spins and plays music. But through his imagination, he sees a spaceship each night whose astronauts come out to play and dance in the sky.
The Blue Unicorn’s Journey to Osm, by Sybrina Durant Everybody loves unicorns! OK maybe they don’t but for those who do, they will love this story about a little unicorn who was born into a tribe of magical, metal horned unicorns. The little guy has no magic and he has no metal but somehow, he must save the tribe from an evil sorcerer. Read the book to find out if he can do it.
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Gnomeling, The Tales of Christian Tompta, Book 1, by Dawn M. Paul Christian Tompta is a young gnome, who lives in a ceramic mushroom house with his family on a bookshelf in a human home. In gnome culture, gnomelings of his age, almost thirteen, must take on a mission or quest of great import to show that they are responsible and capable as they transition into adulthood and take on important guardian roles. Christian dreams of becoming Zach’s guardian. Being a human guardian is a great honor amongst the gnome-folk. The first law of gnome culture dictates that gnomes must never be seen alive by humans, especially a soon-to-be-teenager like Zach.
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The Secret of the Sacred Scarab, by Fiona Ingram This action packed Middle Grade/tween adventure tests the courage of cousins Adam and Justin Sinclair from the moment they arrive in Egypt and are given an ancient artifact, a scarab. The exciting adventure begins right away! Can they survive a harrowing journey to discover the secret of the sacred scarab while being pursued across the desert by a deadly foe?
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Victor Viola Moves to Music Town, by Melinda Logan
The Adventures of Fig-Jam, a little girl from the Outback, by Cristina Carballo- Perelman, M.D.
When a family of string instruments are moving from Each day is an adNew Rock City to venture with her anMusic Town not imal friends, watcheveryone is happy ing them play and about the move. All go about their lives. One by one, each animal Victor Viola can do is frown, because he doesn’t spends a day with her and teaches her valuable want to move to Music Town. Maybe Granny Fidlessons to help her become confident, compasdle, with the help of some newfound friends, can sionate and serene. They even teach her the imturn Victor Viola’s frown upside down. portance of working as a team while keeping her individuality and even how to counteract bullying. Most importantly, Fig-Jam learns how Buy Here important it is to enjoy every moment of every day.
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Groundhog Secrets - Everything You Always Wanted to Know about Woodc hucks, by Lieve Snellings
Do you want to know more about the woodchuck? Then this book packed with information about groundhogs is for you! Margot the woodchuck reveals all her secrets. She describes how groundhogs are born, what they look like and who is in their family. She talks about how they fill their tummies in summer and autumn, to store fat for the long winter months. Even medical doctors and scientists study the groundhog’s hibernation. Find out why in this fascinating illustrated book.
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Space Cat, by Michael Baldwin, ages 8+ While spending vacation with their grandparents, Emma and Riley, are befriended by Star, a space cat. Star takes the children on action-packed adventures to the Moon and each of the planets of the solar system. Star’s spaceship, Whisker, is disguised as Grandad’s old car. Come along for the ride to learn about the science of the solar system and how it works. It’s an amazing, funfilled ride for kids of all ages!
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10 Amazing Children’s Books Everyone wants their children to read books that teach them good life lessons, while still being enjoyable. And what better way is there for a child to learn, than to learn while having fun. Below is a list of some of my favorite childhood books, along with a few of my fellow colleague’s favorites too. While you may not haveheard of most, if any, of these books before, I guarantee you will want your children to read each and every one of them. Not every book on the list is focused on teaching a lesson, but they each have their own very special wisdom to impart. Be sure to click on the title to learn more about each book.
Animal Bedtime Stories: Omnibus by Lucy Kincaid Join Willie the Mole and his Woodland friends as they go on adventure and get into a few pickles. These gentle stories teach children about kindness, generosity and friendship.
Miss Twiggley’s Tree by Dorothea Warren Fox Old Miss Twiggley was friendly with bears. “They shed on the sofa,” she said, “But who cares?” And was it true, as the mayor’s wife had heard, that she actually slept in her hat? “Simply disgraceful!” they said. But when a hurricane hits the town and the water rises, everyone is grateful to Miss Twiggley and her tree.
Tikki Tikki Tembo by Arlene Mosel Aclassic re-creation of an ancient Chinese folktale has hooked legions of children, teachers, and parents, who return, generation after generation, to learn about the danger of having such an honorable name as Tikki tikki tembo-no sa rembo-chari bari ruchi-pip peri pembo.
Amelia Bedelia by Peggy Parish From dressing the chicken to drawing the drapes, Amelia Bedelia does exactly what Mr. and Mrs. Rogers tell her to do. If things get a bit mixed up, well, that’s okay. When Amelia Bedelia is involved, everything always turns out perfectly in the end!
Arthur’s Good Manners by Stephanie Calmenson Go on an adventure with Arthur the alligator as he learns how to eat spaghetti the proper way. A great book about table etiquette and how to teach yourself something new.
The Phantom Tollbooth by Norton Juster For Milo, everything’s a bore. When a tollbooth mysteriously appears in his room, he drives through only because he’s got nothing better to do. But on the other side, things seem different. Milo visits the Island of Conclusions, learns about time from a ticking watchdog named Tock, and even embarks on a quest to rescue Rhyme and Reason. Somewhere along the way, Milo realizes something astonishing. 14 Life is far from dull. In fact, it’s exciting beyond his wildest dreams!
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Scuttle the Stowaway Mouse by Jean Conder Soule & Nancy Soule The story of a young mouse who longs for a somewhat misconceived life at sea. Can Scuttle face his fears or will the bearded pirate and the sinister wharf-rats get the better of him?
Swallows and Amazons by Arthur Ransome The Walker children - also known as Captain John, Mate Susan, Able-Seaman Titty, and Ship’s Boy Roger - set sail on the Swallow and head for Wild Cat Island. There they camp under open skies, swim in clear water and go fishing for their dinner. But their days are disturbed by the Blackett sisters, the fierce Amazon pirates. The Swallows and Amazons decide to battle it out, and so begins a summer of unforgettable discoveries and incredible adventures.
Miss Suzy by Miriam Young Miss Suzy is a little gray squirrel who lives happily in her oak-tree home until she is chased away by some mean red squirrels. Poor Miss Suzy is very sad. But soon she finds a beautiful dollhouse and meets a band of brave toy soldiers. How Miss Suzy and the soldiers help each other makes a gentle, old-fashioned tale that has captured the imaginations of girls and boys alike for forty years.
The Cookie Tree by Jay Williams These towns people feel that everything has a meaning and a purpose but what could be the meaning of a gold and silver tree bearing chocolate cookies?
If you enjoyed the above titles, be sure to check out these BGS authors for more books your children will love! Emma Has a Dilemma! by Dana Wall & Amber Wall Emma has a dilemma, and she doesn’t have a clue what she’s going to do about it! She gets her first F ever on an easy grammar test about nouns and pronouns. Wizard Jake appears out of nowhere when he hears her crying and is willing to help her. He is a genius at grammar and tries patiently to teach her the ins and outs of both nouns and pronouns. Will she learn in time for her make-up test? Or will she end up with a permanent F on her record?
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Pepper, Pumpkin & the Magical Pajamas: Pumpkin is Missing by Rita Madison Pepper, a 7 year old girl, receives a pair of magical pajamas as a present from her grandmother. Pepper uses her pajamas to help her solve problems or overcome situations. When Pumpkin, her cat and best friend, goes missing Pepper searches all over to find her. Pepper finally has no choice but to put on her magical pajamas to locate her best friend.
Elevator Jones (Volume 1) by Dan Soderberg Henry Jones was a typical second grader during the school day. After school Henry became the time traveling adventurer of the magical Grand Excelsior Hotel. Join Henry and his friends Horatio and Lucas in the Adventures of Elevator Jones.
Cheyanna and the Holey Horse by O. L. Shepp Cheyanna’s mom brings home a new horse, BigHornCatchMeQuick. He comes with a slight surprise, however: a gaping hole in his neck from a tracheotomy. Cheyanna’s father refuses to support the horse. Will Cheyanna be able to look past BigHorn’s disability and ride him proudly in the rodeo? Will her love for the horse convince her father that appearances and unique conditions do not define success?
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The Affirmation Station: Daily Affirmations & Journal by Tania Joy Antonio The Affirmation Station is meant to empower children, help them understand the importance of being kind to one another, and to live a life of gratitude, love, and compassion. However, it will surely have an impact on everyone who reads it. The book also contains a journal giving children a place to self express their own affirmations and practice an attitude of gratitude.
Pablo Gets Glasses by S. A. Knight Pablo is having a bad day at school, the teacher moved his seat to the back of the class and now Pablo cant see the board. Follow along with Pablo as he visits the eye doctor for an eye exam.
THE DEViOUS MR. MISCHIEViOUS by Scott Schafer
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Misunderstood by those in his neighborhood for years, he earned the nickname Mr. Mischievious. He doesn’t come out of his house much at all, so when he is seen, it is assumed by his odd behavior that he must be up to something. One day, when Mr. Mischievious gets tired of being cooped up in his house, so he steps outside and shares his unknown artistic talents upon his neighborhood - causing chaos, confusion, and FUN!
Can I Bring a Giraffe on the Plane? by Lesley-Anne Caporelli Rajesh is going on an airplane to visit his grandparents, and he is scared to fly on a plane. He can bring one friend. Which friend should he bring?
Xalien the Purple Alien by Michelle Path Xalien the purple alien crashes to earth and finds herself befriended by three children; Jessica, Adam and Sarah. Whilst on Earth, Xalien learns all about planet Earth and the all the strange habits Humans have; often resulting in funny and unusual situations as she tries her hardest to fit in. Along the way, Xalien teaches the three children, about life on her own Planet too.
The Sheep That Couldn’t Sleep by Stephanie Rouse The Sheep That Couldn’t Sleep...It’s late and time for sheep to go to sleep, but he is wide awake. What oh what will the farmer do to get the little one to bed. The farmer’s daughter knows what to do. After all, it worked for her so many times before.
Ages 6-12
FIRST PLACE WINNER 2016 PURPLE DRAGONFLY AWARDS -Â MIDDLE 20 GRADE FICTION CATEGORY
An Interview with Lieve Snellings, Our Top Voted Children’s Author 2017 Tell us something unexpected about yourself! To answer this question, I regret I don’t have a sound tool here to let you hear my witches laugh. In fact, that laugh is very empowering when we do it together with more people. It is as getting all the strength deep down into yourself, finding a way to come out. I love my witches laugh because it is fun and because it makes me feel strong. My dream is to end every meeting: if it is a book conference, a peace action or a book reading for children, with a group’s witches laugh. Believe me, everyone would leave that place with tons of good energy. How did you get into writing? Well this is a special story. I think most (if not almost all) writers start their books with idea’s, fantasies which they turn into words and afterwards look for illustrations. For me it was the contrary. I was a documental, social photographer. But once I visited Quebec where I live since 2008 about five months a year, my focus and passion came from nature photography. Nature is so beautiful in Quebec. In Belgium I was/am always busy, but when I am in Quebec, it seems I can take all the time in the world to observe and photograph. Watching all these little (and a bit bigger) creatures that visit our backyard and in parks is so relaxing, feed for imagination, fun and apparently, I have a lot of patience for this nature observation. So it wasn’t a surprise that after a while my photo library was growing and became really huge. And many people told me ‘you have to do something with these photos, you have to publish them.’ Yes I wanted to do that too, but how? The idea was planted as a seed in my mind. Regular it aroused, especially with the squirrels, chipmunks and groundhogs that visited us.
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After spending some days with my godchild’s daughters in Belgium, I flew back to Quebec and suddenly it became clear to me. I can make a children’s book with these girls as main characters together with Eufrazie the squirrel. But sitting again in our backyard, I saw Margot the groundhog waking up after her hibernation. At some way, she made it all clear, ‘not Eufrazie, it’s about me, Margot, that you have to tell your story. And so, probably totally different than any other writer, my books didn’t start with words. It started with my photos. The books were born page per page, image by image and with the photos came the story. What are your top 3 books of all time? 1. ‘Het meisje met het rode haar’ -The girl with the red hear- by Theun de Vries (1956). I don’t know if this book is translated into English. The story of the book is based on the life of Hannie Schaft. She was member of the armed resistance during WO II. There were not many women in the armed resistance and the book tells the story of how Hannie Schaft and her female comrade took care not to kill innocent people. They have killed some SS chiefs and I had somehow the idea (for however this could be possible) they killed out of love, to protect. But then at a certain moment Hannie Schaft’s lover was killed and as a reader I could feel this was a big shift, a break in her motivation and action. Hannie Schaft continued to do the same thing as she did before her partner died, but it wasn’t anymore out of love. What this book made so visible for me was that the line of using violence to get your goal is so very thin. When you do this for a start, where is the shifting point. It definitely was an important book that convinced me in my support of non violence. 2. ‘Possessing the Secret of Joy’ by Alice Walker. It was a difficult choice which book of her to choose. In any case I can say that Alice Walker’s books have played an enormous role in my personal development. 22
I don’t remember in which story she wrote it, but after reading I never forgot. It might that it are not the exact words, but it was about “A theory is fixed and the points are clear, while a fiction story goes on, it is always moving”. How I would love that more ‘ideological’ people or organizations, could become more open and moving as a novel. 3. ‘From where we stand – war, women’s activism & feminist analysis’ by Cynthia Cockburn. This is an enlightening book that shows global perspectives on women’s politics and activism for peace. Analysis build on ‘from where you stand’. And I think this is an important basic attitude, always to look ‘from where we stand’, I think this could help communicating in the world. How long did it take you to write this book? Well this took me quite some time, in fact I started my first book about 4 years ago. The book was born after many trials and errors, step by step. Fortunately I had good proofreaders who did not spare me their criticism. The original story was confusing. It was a 10 year old girl who gave me her thoughts “There are two parts in the book, one part is the story with the girls, which is interesting for children a bit younger then me. And then there is that other part, with all those fact on the groundhog, well this part certainly will also interest my sister who is 12.” And this I could understand well and after more than a year, I unraveled it in two different books. The books are originally written in Dutch. The English translation of ‘Margot gets an unexpected visit – the fanciful adventures of a groundhog’ was published in 2016. The English translation of ‘Groundhog Secrets, everything you always wanted to know about woodchucks’ was published on June 1, 2017. Have you got any writing rituals? Yes, I started this book on an extraordinary way. As a photographer, I started selecting the photos I thought/felt I could use. Then sitting in the backyard with a cup of coffee and watching the pictures and the fauna around me, the story came image by image. That’s how Margot came up and claimed her role as leading character. 23
Outside I wrote a first draft of five to seven photos, depending on the story line. Then I went inside to my computer and worked in photoshop on the image pages. The other day, I went outside again with my coffee, and the ritual repeated itself. I’m sure that being outside and a cup of coffee will be in the ritual for the next book. How the photos and the words will come in, that I am not sure, we’ll see. How important is marketing and social media for you? Yes marketing and social media is very important. Once my book is published, of course I want as many children and adults as possible to see and read it. But as a Self Publisher, you have to do all the marketing for your book yourself. If you don’t promote, well people just will not know that it exists. But I came from far, didn’t know anything about marketing. So I started to read whatever I could find online, followed webinars and workshops on Facebook, Twitter, WordPress and marketing. First in my mother tongue Dutch. Then in English. I learned a lot, but there is still so much that I still need to learn. You have to be active on so many different places that sometimes I just wanted to quit. In the meantime I learned that different authors regularly are dealing with this feeling. It’s important to find ways to take a break and keep going on. I am so glad to be part of the BookGoSocial Children’s Author Group. To hear others recognize this sentiment but went on anyway too. Do you read your book reviews? Yes, I love to read them. Of course I hope to see positive notes. But I try to learn, to pick up these elements in the comments that help me forward, to improve. What advice would you have for other writers? I consider myself still as new in the writer’s world. But the advice I want to give is don’t give up! Use difficulties and critics to get better, keep going!
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What are you reading now? Lately I read a lot of children’s books in English. Now I want to read ‘Kom hier dat ik u kus’ by my favorite Belgian writer Griet Op De Beeck. I hope her books will be translated into English and you’ll be able to read her too because she is such a talented author, with such meaningful stories. When I read her, sometimes I put the book aside and hear myself say loud ‘this is so beautiful said’. What’s your next step? I dream to start a new book. Of course photos will stay very important in it. I only haven’t decided yet what it will be about. There are those ideas for another story on Margot the groundhog. Will she not be too lonely when she goes into hibernation… But there also is this project on trees ‘Zij Zeggen Zoveel’ (They Say So Much) that pops up again and urge for my attention. It would be a book about the Spirit, Desire and Trouble, the Beauty and Harshness of Life…
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Finding Danny by Constance Gottlieb
New Release!
Ages 4-8
Young adult books
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The Rite of Wands, by Mackenzie Flohr One boy…one Rite… And a world of deadly secrets that could change the course of history—forever. And so begins the tale of Mierta McKinnon. When a horrible fate reveals itself during his Rite of Wands ceremony, he must find a way to change not only his destiny but also the land of Iverna’s. Forbidden from revealing the future he foresees to anyone, he is granted a wand and his magical powers, but still must master the realm of magic to save himself and those he loves. But Mierta is not the only one with secrets…especially when it’s impossible to know who to trust.
Review: The Rite… reads like anything but the work of a first-time author. To the contrary, Flohr has crafted a robust tale of secrets, mystery, and uncertain destiny that rivals the works of Tolkien, Lewis, and Rowling. That might be a leap considering The Rite… is the first installment to something bigger, but once you dig into the pages you immediately get an idea of the grand scale of Flohr’s intentions, and it’s nothing short of magnificent.
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Starting Over: A Trina Ryan Novel, by Sheri S Levy – New Release!
Trina Ryan trains another service dog--an eight-week-old Labrador, Colton. She works at the barn next door and rides the schooling horse. Trina butts heads with Morgan Hart, who is cruel to people and her horse. Frustrations grow by having a long-distance relationship with Chase, and with Morgan’s insults and her heartless treatment of Knight. Trina decides to uncover the reason for Morgan’s hostile attitude and develop a sense of trust. Slowly, Morgan’s angry shield cracks and she’s able to share a troubling family secret. Can Trina help Morgan confront her family problems and make a fresh start?
Reviews:
Dogs! Horses! Boys! What could be better? An energetic puppy learning to be a service dog-a sweet-tempered horse-an absentee boyfriend-and Trina, the girl who has to make some difficult decisions about all of them. A lovely, thoughtful coming-of-age novel -Ellyn Bache Trina Ryan shares her joys, fears, and Chase, who gave Trina her first kiss at Edisto Island, and her love of horses with best friend, Sarah. But one thing sets Trina apart from other teens: She raises and trains service dogs to assist people with disabilities. Sheri has created poignant 28page-turner - Peggy Shaw
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Calliope Jones and The Last World Diver, by Haylie Machado Hanson Sixteen-year-old Calliope Jones is your average teen. But when she alone discovers an otherworldly, glowing object washed up in the surf, her search for answers draws her into the fantastical world of Dr. Ormonde and the giant World Diver, one filled with Navigators, Seers, living robots, and whirlpool gateways to other worlds. When a dark presence comes hunting her, threatening those she loves, Callie must decide if she is truly the average teen she thought she was, or if she and the World Diver share a destiny greater than she can imagine.
Reviews:
Calliope Jones is incredibly fun. The writing is excellent and the story is exciting. “The Last World Diver” would appeal to all types of readers who enjoy all types of genres! Highly recommended!
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This terrific story has a foot in reality, and a foot in fantasy which makes it relatable and thrilling at the same time. I look forward to reading more about Callie and her adventures, and I would easily recommend this to any 12-16 year old!
Mulatto Girl Aggie, 13, by LaKesa Cox
Imagine a teen from present day being transported back to the year 1816. Then imagine if that teen finds out she’s not only in the year 1816, but she’s also a slave. Eager to celebrate her 13th birthday, Aggie is disappointed when her parents break their promise to her by not giving her the gift she really wanted. Mad at the world, Aggie goes to school and is sent to detention hall for disrespecting her teacher. Aggie accidentally falls and bumps her head before awaking in a dream where she is transported back to the year 1816 as a slave on a plantation in Goochland, Virginia. As a slave, Aggie is forced to adapt but not before learning some valuable and very harsh lessons in life.
Review:
“The historical details are amazing. I felt as if I was there. Great book!” “Love it! LaKesa Cox takes an all too common scenario with young teens and the parents that loved them and gives an eye-opening lesson on the power of words and the importance of gratitude. At times Cox had me chuckling and at other times, I had to just nod in agreement, or shake my head in fury at this young lady. This book makes a great gift for young adult readers, parents, and even teachers. Hats off to LaKesa Cox for an excellent adventure. I can’t wait to see what’s next from this author.” 30
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Jasmine’s World of Autism: At the Seawall, by T. Lynn Lewis, ages 3-10 Jasmine’s World of Autism: At the Seawall is a picture book which promotes inclusion and helps to raise autism awareness in children, in a fun and entertaining way. The book is about the adventure of a girl, Jasmine, and her three nonverbal, autistic brothers, Wyatt, Jimi and Michael. Jasmine, along with her brothers take the readers on a ride as they have fun exploring the seawall, while they learn valuable lessons.
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The Wishing Stone, by Lorana Hoopes, ages 4-10 Spenser didn’t like to read until he met a stranger who gave him a magical stone. When he holds the stone, and wishes to meet the character, he is transported into the book. This first book in the series takes him to dinosaur time where he must help a cave boy save his village.
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Esthopia Sagas
Invasion of the
Ortaks
Believe in yourself, and your world of dreams and fantasy! Over the peaceful lands of Esthopia, looms a dark threat of war, as the story of the Invasion of the Ortaks begins with the first book, The Knight! The story will keep you sitting on your edge of your seat in suspense, from the first page to the last, as you learn about multiply characters that will have great effect on the outcome of the war, and leaving you craving for more! Come with us into this great world! Meet the princesses, the kings, and the elves, as they fight the evil in great battles! Read about tremendous battle scenes and romantic moments, as the invading armies plunder the lands of Esthopia!
A Medieval Fantasy By Sveinn Benónýsson, For Young Adults, And Everyone That Loves A Good Fantasy! http://www.ortakinvasion.com
Sons of the Sphinx, by Cheryl Carpinello When 15-year-old Rosa agrees to help the ghost of King Tut find his lost queen Hesena, she doesn’t count on falling for him. In Ancient Egypt, Rosa discovers that finding Hesena is not as easy as she thought it would be, even though she carries part of that lost queen in her soul. She must also keep out of the reach of the living Horemheb--who crosses mortal boundaries using Seth’s evil magic--if she is to make it home alive.
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Once Upon a Dragon, by K.A. M’Lady Jeremy Owens and his older siblings want to believe in magic, but hope and belief are difficult things to hold onto even when you’re a child. After the loss of their parents, three young children find themselves fostered off on an Aunt who’s never known the love of a child. This Christmas, will the Owens children find out what it means to believe again?
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The Phantom of Faerie Mountain, by E M McIntyre
Left Out, by Jean Gill Not just for teens. Being different isn’t easy but it can be exciting! Shocked at discovering how left-handers are persecuted, Jamie ties her hand behind her back for a public protest in school. This does not go down well and that’s just the start. A modern classic of friendship and teen life, with all its pitfalls and challenges.
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A telepathic dog. An ancient prophecy. Two devious faeries. 14 yr. old Abby Fletcher must unravel their connection after receiving a mysterious message: The Red King must set me free. Determined to discover its meaning, Abby sets off to explore a nearby Scottish mountainside where she is whisked back to the early 14th century.
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Summer on Earth, by Peter Thompson – New Release! The night that eleven-year-old Grady Johnson looked out his window and wished upon a shooting star, his life changed forever. Grady, his Ma, and younger sister Luanne are having a hard summer. Dad has died and the family isn’t the same. Though Ma is trying her best, Grady knows they don’t have enough money to get by. The shooting star he saw was a space craft plunging to Earth, and landing at the back of their farm. Extraterrestrial engineer Ralwil Turth has one goal, to fix his power drive and go back home. But things don’t go as planned. Stuck in human form, he gets to know Grady and his family as he works on their farm. He starts to learn about what it means to be human, and the exotic charms of this planet.
Reviews:
The unique, fablelike story with gentle charm and strongly drawn characters—human and otherwise—will satisfy with its quiet aura of resilience and hopefulness - Booklist This relatively gentle but exciting science fiction tale will engage young readers who enjoy milder action. Relationships and family take center stage, with Will’s factual observations providing an interesting window into human nature. VERDICT A solid general purchase for budding sci-fi readers, and a useful story to help kids learn to walk in another’s shoes - Kelsey Johnson-Kaiser, St. Paul Public Library
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Robyn Hood Outlaw Princess, by John Reynolds Rebellious schoolgirl Robyn Howard time travels to Sherwood Forest where she becomes Robyn Hood, leader of a female outlaw band. After leading her outlaws in a series of challenging adventures (that includes a romantic encounter). Fighting against the Sheriff of Nottingham, she is eventually captured by his soldiers. The triumphant Sheriff holds a show trial in the Nottingham marketplace where Robyn is condemned to death. Escape seems impossible. But, there is a fantasy twist.
Reviews: “Robyn’s adventure in Sherwood is like The Wonderful Wizard of Oz, as people from her school life make appearances in her outlaw experience. Both Mr. Smallfield and Robyn’s friend William have roles in Nottinghamshire. Read the book to find out how!” “Here is a fresh twist on a classic story - with a little romance and mystery. Definitely check it out. Out of all the redone classics I’ve read, this is one of the freshest. Although a young adult fiction, I recommend it for readers of all ages”. 34
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Ways to Help Children Develop Stories By Ellen L. Buikema – The Adventures of Charlie Chameleon series, Parenting..., A Work in Progress, B.S. Gibbs - The Emaleen Andarsan Series, Maria Hayden - The Fairy Secret, The Mermaid Wish & Which Witch Am I, Maria Mathews – The Runaway Schoolhouse, Moving On, Kathy Rogo – Ethel’s New Home, Lieve Snellings - Groundhog Secrets: Everything You Always Wanted to Know about Woodchucks, Margot gets an unexpected visit: The fanciful adventures of a groundhog Storytelling is at the heart of all cultures. It is an ancient activity used worldwide and a gift to future generations. Before historical events were recorded in written form, the oral tradition of storytelling was an important means to share events of historical significance to a culture’s children. These oral stories were passed down from adults to children and then from those children to their own children and so on. Stories of legendary figures were also passed down from generation to generation, although some of these legends may have been exaggerated over time. For instance, if not for storytelling, we wouldn’t have the many interesting tales about King Arthur, who may have lived as a warlord but who has been converted over time into a legendary story of justice and honor. When writing was invented many of these stories were recorded in writing and are known by us today. Had it not been for storytelling, the information would have been lost in the past.
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Today we use stories to teach, to entertain, to express our own creativity, and sometimes to try and get ourselves out of trouble. For young children, telling stories is a means by which children can learn to organize their thoughts into an order. Later, writing stories is the first means by which children learn to create written content. Then on, children hone their emerging writing skills with the creation of stories until they can start creating writings with more analytical content. Helping your children to create stories, and then later to write them, helps your child develop skills that will serve them throughout their education. As a parent, working on stories with your children can also be a fun and enjoyable bonding experience. As parents, we are all looking for activities that provide quality time. What better activity is there than one that provides an educational benefit while at the same time it creates joy that makes it seem like it’s not educational. How can you get started? Well, here are some suggestions for engineering a story from the imagination. 1. 2. 3. 4. 5. 6. 7. 8.
Tell me the first thing you see. Now make it into a character, imagine it is alive. What is the character’s name? What is its mission/job to do (goal)? What do you think may go wrong (obstacles)? Who do you think might help your character Are there any baddies around that might interfere with your characters plan? How does this story end? Stories are primarily set around the big ‘what if…’ question. What if pigs could fly… What if paper had feelings… What if dogs could become invisible at will – what would they do? What ‘what if ’ scenarios can you and your child come up with together? There is a plethora of ways to go. The only limit is your imagination and imaginations are unlimited!
The following activities may also help children learn the fine art of storytelling and cultivate their inner wordsmith. •
While cooking and baking, tell a story about another time you made this recipe.
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When picking up a room, create a story to tell the child while cleaning. “Broad cast” what the child is doing or have the child be the announcer.
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While reading a story, explain the meaning of new words. Read poetry, magazines, and stories.
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At bedtime, have the child tell a story about his day. Read to each other. When grocery shopping, point out words on signs, shelves, boxes, and bottles. Do a play-by-play description of the entire trip.
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During family game time, play word games like Scrabble ®, Pictionary ®, crossword puzzles, hangman.
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While traveling, make up words for people, places, and things. Create a mystery story about the places visited and the people you met. Look for letters on license plates. Listen to audio books.
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During homework, have the child talk through the problems assigned, and verbalize her thoughts before writing.
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For the news, read the newspaper and magazines. Talk about what was read. For family, make up or have the child invent a story about each family member. This can be vastly amusing.
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To get out of the house on time, create a verbal routine using cue words with time periods built in. Have the child tell a story of what could happen if you don’t get out on time. The story does not have to be serious. Humor can still get the point across.
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At the bus stop is a beautiful old big tree. While you’re waiting for the bus, birds are chatting loud. Ask your child to listen attentively for a moment and then explain you what the birds were saying.
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Dirt in the streets. Ask your child to imagine the dirt becoming living creatures. What are they doing? Where they are? What are they saying to each other? What do they want to tell the child?
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The clouds in the sky may look like deer running for their life to you. But what does your child see in those clouds? S/he to tell the story of what is happening in those changing clouds • A chipmunk and two squirrels are visiting your backyard. Ask the child if s/he thinks they know each other. What are they doing and saying? We hope that you enjoy the activities and spend many hours of family fun!
eight Tips for Children’s self published authors on Successful Promotion Increase online Exposure of Your work
Drawing Competitions! Invite kids to draw an alternative cover for your picture book or their favourite character from a children’s book. The winner gets a free copy of your book!
Make quizzes online! Make a quiz online and invite your readers to solve it and find out which characters from your book are they. There are many softvares which you can use for this promotional move such as Playbuzz.
Make your Tweet spop! Include no more than three hashtags in your Tweet and add a graphic. You can make great promotional images with online pages like Canva. Make a list of most used hashtags and use them interchangeably.
Make a book trailer! There are lots of great and free softvares which you can use to make a lovely book trailer. Once you make it share it on all your social media accounts!
rewrite your amazon book description! Focus on what is most special about your book. How does it stand out among many other children’s books out there? Think of a catchy phrase! When writing a book description think about your audience. What do you want to say to your potential readers out there?
Be sure you have a professionally designed cover! If you’re not already an illustrator and you have a picture book comming up, be sure to find a professional who know’s what’s he’s/she’s doing and who will make wonderful illustrations for your book. If you find this expensive think about having a smaller amount of really good illustrations than a large number of not really good looking ones.
connect with your readers! Make a webpage, a blog or an official page on Facebook about you as a writer. Connect with your friends, fellow writers, join literature related groups and promote your site there! Post regulary and ask your followers for comments,suggestion, expiriences...
promote before you publish! Start your promotion before your book is out! Go on a online book tour. Post your favourite chapter of your blog, organize a competition or a live Q&A sessions, organizea book cover reveal day, ask your designer to make a few Black and White illustrations and share them online as complementary coloring material.
The One-Eyed King, by Kenny S. Rich In a futuristic world still reeling from the ashes of protracted nuclear warfare, there are levels to humanity. With the planet’s scarce resources severely depleted, survival of the fittest is once more the way of the world. But when one ruling order decides who is fit, equality is history and oppression is the new normal. Into this chaotic world hostile to the disabled, a blind orphan boy is thrust with an impossible choice to make: become willing annihilator or reluctant savior?
Reviews “Compelling! Gripping! The One-Eyed King will play on every emotion you have, taking you on a roller-coaster ride of anger, excitement, tears, and victories.” -APRIL M. REIGN, Amazon Bestselling Author of the HASH series “A spectacular, compelling tour de force in the science fiction fantasy genre, The One-Eyed King held me spellbound on every page.” -EVE PALUDAN, Amazon Bestselling Author
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Cleo the Dolphin: Story Coloring Book, by Laura Burke – New Release Cleo the Dolphin likes to play in the surf. Swimming all day and learning new things. Cleo makes friends with others in the ocean as she explores her new world.
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Exciting Reads for Fans of MineCraft and Adventure
Watch the Trailer Here
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The Short Straw, by Irene Mathias – (Ages 4-9) – New Release! Halloween – vampires, ghosts and candy. Jake loves it! Trick or treating has never been so much fun, but throw a haunted house into the mix and its whole different story. Jake becomes the neighborhood’s latest “unfortunate” as he draws the short straw and owns the annual dare - go into the town’s haunted house and bring back proof. Scared to chicken out, he gathers all his courage and prepares for the challenge ahead. What will he find when he goes in? Or rather, what will find him…
Reviews: “What a cleverly written book - kept my 9-year-old engrossed till the end. Beautifully illustrated too, hoping to see more in this line” - Mrs I. Grant “Expertly written.... Exciting ..... Captures the imagination and leaves you wanting more... The book Is beautifully illustrated which adds to the thrill as you turn each page. I’m very much looking forward to what comes after the ‘?’” - Ms H Darroch
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Shimji, the Channel Island Vixen, by Christina Steiner – (Ages 4-11) – New Release! Shimji, a young Channel Island vixen, dreams to go where no Island fox has ever gone: to the place her ancestors came from thousands of years ago. She finds the island’s harbor and stows away on a boat headed to the California coast. On the main-land, Shimji befriends wild and domesticated animals. She learns from their different ways and thus gains knowledge of the world. Her curiosity satisfied, Shimji longs to return home, only to be discovered by humans. Scientists want to send her to a zoo. Can Shimji escape and find her way back to her island home?
Reviews: “You can feel her (Steiner) uplifting attitude about life in every paragraph”. “This book is a wonderful read that will educate you in a way that feels more like fun than just being told facts”. 42
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