RATTLESNAKE JAM

Announcing a new picture book release:

Margot Finke's Rattlesnake Jam is published with loving care by Guardian Angel Publishing.
Wild and wonderful illustrations by Kevin Scott Collier jump off the page.

Rattlesnake Jam is a rhyming romp of a picture book. Crazy old Gran and Pa argue over how to cook up the rattlers he catches. Gran is determined to bottle them into her cure-all rattlesnake jam, yet Pa longs for Gran to make him rattlesnake pie.

Visit the webpage where Gran and Pa hang out and rattlers slither about..
http://mysite.verizon.net/mfinke/My%20Other%20Books.htm#other

Peek into GRAN'S KITCHEN, work on a PUZZLE or a COLORING SHEET,
or WIN an autographed copy of "Rattlesnake Jam."

Review of RAINBOW SHEEP

RAINBOW SHEEP by Kim Chatel.
Guardian Angel Publishing, 2008.
ISBN: 1933090847/ 978-1933090849

REVIEW by Cynthia Reeg

Genevieve, a shepherdess with a knack for “nonsense stories,” leads a herd of disgruntled but lovable “grey and dirty brown” sheep. When the rain persists for too long, Genevieve tickles one cloud after another until the sun shines through. It is then the sad, pale, bored rainbow comes into view. After a few of Genevieve’s silly stories, the rainbow sees the joy in the world all around and is no longer sad. Instead, it cries happy, colorful tears which drip onto the sheep huddled below—creating rainbow sheep.

Ms. Chatel has woven a truly colorful and unique story with RAINBOW SHEEP. Her original wool fiber art scenes capture the story’s warmth. This children’s tale with its rich language will beckon readers and listeners back again and again to revel in its soft, sweet words and magical visions.

RAINBOW SHEEP offers bonus pages which explain the art of needle felting with instructions on how to make your own rainbow sheep and felted soap. A glossary is included as well. This book seems like a perfect summertime (or anytime) read to delight and entertain young readers.

A story CONTEST is in the works right now, sponsored by Ms. Chatel. She is encouraging young writers to create their own colorful stories and submit them to her website. To find out more about the contest, click on the link above.

Interview with Kim Chatel

Today, author Kim Chatel shares some insights on writing--for both children and adults. She is busy promoting her new picture book, RAINBOW SHEEP, from Guardian Angel Publishing. Look for my review of this book here on my blog as well.

Interview with Kim Chatel

by Mayra Calvani

Why don’t you begin by telling us a little about yourself?

My name is Kim McDougall. I write adult fiction under that name and children's fiction under my married name, Kim Chatel. I am also a photographer, fiber artist and mom, all of them self-taught. As Kim Chatel, I have published a YA novella, The Stone Beach and a picture book Rainbow Sheep. I was born in Montreal, Quebec, but I now live in Pennsylvania. I love animals, crafting, and just about any outdoor activity.

When did you decide you wanted to become an author?

I have always written. I have a book of poems that I wrote when I was 8 or 9 (Cats have fur. They often purr…) In high school, I won an award for a descriptive flash I wrote about someone drowning. Then in college, I was lucky enough to have several encouraging professors who inspired me to continue writing. After my daughter was born, writing slipped by the wayside, but when she started school, I decided it was now or never. I put aside all my other projects (photography and crafting) and became a full-time writer. It took 3 years, but I'm finally reaping the rewards, with several projects being published in the next few months.

Were you an avid reader as a child? What type of books did you enjoy reading?

I read all the time as a child and teenager. I could spend hours by myself with a good book. As a young child, I loved the Bobsy Twins series. Later I fell in love with fantasy fiction when I read Madaleine L'Engle's A Wrinkle in Time. I remember how she explained time could be folded like a blanket to travel over its surface faster. It was a true WOW moment for me. I had never read anything like it. Then my brother gave me the Belgariad series from David Eddings and I was hooked on fantasy.

Tell us a bit about your latest book, and what inspired you to write such a story.

Well, one evening during a storm, my daughter couldn’t sleep. I started a game with her that would last for years. I gave her a dream. This funny story was something she could latch onto while she tried to sleep, and I told her to finish it in her dreams. The first of these story-dreams was an early version of Rainbow Sheep. Of course, it wasn’t as simple as that. The plot and characters went through many revisions before it was ready to submit for publication, but the basic story is the same one I told on that rainy night so many years ago.

How would you describe your creative process while writing this book? Was it stream-of-consciousness writing, or did you first write an outline?

I get so excited when I start a new project that I need to create an outline, because I worry all my great ideas will get lost if I don't put them on paper. Rainbow Sheep was different though because it evolved from an oral tale. It did require extensive revising. The original version was much too long for a picture book. I wrote it down in full, and then put it away for a few months. When I took it out again, the initial excitement was gone, and I could look at it with a critical eye. I think, like many authors, I'm often enamored with my own words, when they first materialize. I need to distance myself a bit before I can revise. This is where crit groups come in, and I have been very fortunate to be a part of good writers groups, with wonderful, supportive friends who have helped me improve my writing over the years.

Did your book require a lot of research?

I always research. For The Stone Beach I interviewed two veterinarians to make Casey's illness as realistic as possible. For Rainbow Sheep I learned some interesting facts about sheep. There is also an article on needle felting at the back of this book, so I researched the origins of this craft. I've learned that research doesn't end with publication either. Finding unique ways to promote a book also requires research. I am currently looking into different venues, such as craft and specialty gift shops, to sell Rainbow Sheep.

How did you come up with the idea of using felting (is this the technique?) to create the pictures in the story?

I was always fascinated by picture books illustrated with alternate forms of art such as Eric Carle’s collages or Barbara Reid’s plasticene-relief illustrations from The New Baby Calf, (author Edith Newlin Chase). These books worked on my subconscious, inspiring me to merge my own art with my fiction.

Tell us a bit about this special technique?

Felting happens when wool is shrunk down. Rubbing wool with warm water and soap is called wet felting. Needle felting is the art of sculpting wool with a special needle. Wool roving (unspun wool) is poked repeatedly, until it compacts into a solid shape. The results are fun, whimsical and fuzzy.

I first discovered this craft in 2004, on the Carol Duval show on HGTV. At the time, I dabbled in all kinds of crafts, but the first time I picked up a felting needle and a hunk of wool roving, I was hooked. I knew I’d found my medium. I can’t draw or paint. I don’t like to sew or knit, but needle felting lets me express my imagination with ease. Needle felting is fast becoming a mainstream art. When I first started, I could find only two books on the subject. Now there are dozens of books and chat groups for needle-felters.

Is this something young children could do at school? Where may parents and teachers find more information about this craft?

I suggest needle felting is suitable for children 8 years and older with adult supervision because the needle is quite sharp. My daughter has been felting since she was 6 years old though. Kids love it, even boys. There are many wet felting projects that don't require a needle and these would be great for school projects with children as young as 4 or 5.

While needle felting hasn't quite reached the big box craft stores yet, there are many good online stores for felting supplies and books. I have a list of them on my website at http://www.kimchatel.com/Felt_Suppliers.html. The DVD version of Rainbow Sheep will also include a short home movie of me making a little felted sheep, as per the instructions in the book.

What type of writer are you—the one who experiences before writing, like Hemingway, or the one who mostly daydreams and fantasizes?

A bit of both. I find scenes from my life appear in my stories, Montreal; Nice, France (I went to college there). For the rest, I'm a story collector. I listen and read, watch the news and find stories everywhere. Often two or three stories will combine to make one plot. I keep a file of "Story Sparks." This could be anything from a name of a character or a conversation, to a video of a news story.

From the moment you conceived the idea for the story, to the published book, how long did it take?

Rainbow Sheep took about two and a half years from that first rainy night when I lulled my daughter to sleep with the story of a sad rainbow, to holding my first copy in my hands. As I mentioned, I put it away for several months before revising it. About the same time, I made my first needle-felted pictures. I had no idea if any publisher would be interested in such a thing. And because each frame took about 8 hours to complete, I made only three to begin with. Then I started the long process of trying to find a publisher. Luckily, I met Lynda Burch, from Guardian Angel publishing at the Muse online conference in October of 2007. She was interested in not only in the story, but in the art as well. I quickly got busy making another seven frames! By the end of November, I had completed the artwork. Then I suggested to Lynda that we include the Fiber Art activities. So, my job wasn't really done until January. The book was released in May 2008.

Describe your working environment.

I am lucky enough to have my own office at home. I usually have a cat draped across my lap as I type and a dog snoring loudly on the floor at my feet. I recently bought a laptop so I can work anywhere, but I prefer my office. I keep it quite cold in there, to stay awake through my sleepy time (2 to 4pm). I also have all my reference books handy.

They say authors have immensely fragile egos… How would you handle negative criticism or a negative review?

I have enough rejection letters to paper my office. And I think that's how it should be. Taking creative writing in college really helped to thicken my skin. While I had some supportive professors, others were only interested in finding the next Alice Munroe; they weren't impressed by my brand of literary fantasy. In my classes, students critiqued other students' work. This was my first exposure to peer review. It was baptism by fire. There is no harsher critic than a fellow student. It was good experience for me. When it came time to send my stories to editors, I was ready to hear no. I realize that my writing style is not accessible to everyone, but I write what I like to read, and hope there is an audience.

Are you a disciplined writer?

I am very disciplined. I think any writer who is serious about this business needs discipline and talent in equal proportions.

For writer moms:

How do you divide your time between taking care of a home and children, and writing? Do you plan your writing sessions in advance?

I write in the morning, as soon as my daughter is off to school. This is when I'm freshest. I work right until 4pm, when she gets off the bus. I stop to help her with homework, take care of the house, make dinner and do all million others things a mom needs to do. I try not to work on the weekends. That's family and house time.

Do you have an agent? How was your experience in searching for one?

I did try to find an agent when my first novel, Caul, Shroud and Veil, was complete. I was offered contracts from two agents, but when I researched them further, I discovered they had very little experience. Though it was tempting to jump on the agent bandwagon anyway, I felt that having a bad agent would be worse than having no agent. I have not regretted that decision. Shortly afterwards, I was offered a contract from Double Dragon for not only the first book, but also the entire trilogy. Shortly after that, I won contracts from Eternal Press and Guardian Angel Publishing. I may one day pursue an agent again, but for now, I am happy with the state of my career.

What is your opinion about critique groups? What words of advice would you offer a novice writer who is joining one? Do you think the wrong critique group can ‘crush’ a fledgling writer?

I have been fortunate enough to belong to some amazing crit groups. I have also made the mistake of joining too many crit groups and not being able to keep up with the required reviews. I've learned to say no, and not join every group that pops up even when they sound intriguing. I have been overwhelmed by the generous support from the online writing community. Not just crit groups, but writers' chat groups and forums too. Between interview opportunities like this one and invitations to blog, I've been able to bring Rainbow Sheep to a wider audience than I could have alone. I have friends all over the world (whom I've never met face-to-face) offering to promote Rainbow Sheep to local stores, libraries and schools. I feel so privileged to be part of this community.

As for new writers, I think the benefits of crit groups far outweigh the chance of a bruised ego. In my experience, most critiquers are caring and honest. And the few that aren't…well that's part of the business, and any writer who wants to be successful had better learn to take what the critics dish out.

Technically speaking, what do you struggle the most with when writing? How do you tackle it?

For my children's fiction, I struggle with keeping my stories contemporary. I love all things old-fashioned and these tend to creep into my stories. I want to bring the joy of reading to kids, but I know the first step is to hook them with an idea that is relevant to their time and place. If I could, I would write like Anne of Green Gables or the original Winnie the Pooh, but I suspect that brand of narrative prose wouldn't fly with many of today's kids.

How was your experience in looking for a publisher? What words of advice would you offer those novice authors who are in search of one?

When I first started writing, I read that to be published you need to make contacts. Being a bit of a recluse, I didn't believe it, and I started blitzing editors with little success. Then I joined several chat groups and crit groups. I started my own ezine and helped to promote other authors. What goes around comes around. Soon I had friends recommending me to their publishers. Of my three current publishers, two of my contracts came about from contacts made in writers' groups. So that's my advice. Get out there. Help your fellow writers. Critique other stories. Go to conventions and conferences. Make a name for yourself.

What type of book promotion seems to work the best for you?

I'm new to the promotion side of publishing, so I can't really say what works best. I can tell you what I have planned for Rainbow Sheep: Books signings, school and library visits, craft fair appearances, direct mailing to fiber stores. I have sent out multiple review copies and I take advantage of the world of blogs. I enjoy making trailers for all my books and they appear on YouTube (http://www.youtube.com/profile_videos?user=klchatel) and other venues. Today I did errands and dropped off postcards printed with the Rainbow Sheep cover and blurb at the bank and the post office. I sold 7 books!

What is the best writing advice you’ve ever received?

It only takes one editor to say 'yes.'

Do you have a website/blog where readers may learn more about you and your work?

Between the Cracks fiction at http://www.kimmcdougal.com/
Children's fiction at http://www.kimchatel.com/


Do you have another book on the works? Would you like to tell readers about your current or future projects?

I am currently working on another picture book for Guardian Angel Publishing entitled A Talent for Quiet. This is the story of a shy little girl who bonds with her new step-dad while they photograph critters in the creek. It will be illustrated with my photographs, and include a short nonfiction section with photography tips for kids.

I am also working on the sequel to my fantasy novel Caul, Shroud and Veil coming soon from Double Dragon Publishing. So far, it's untitled. Double Dragon will also be releasing my novella, Angel Venom, this summer, and I have two stories in their recently released Twisted Tails III Anthology, Pure Fear.

I also enjoy writing short stories and flash fiction. In the next few months, I have stories appearing in Albedo One Magazine, Hobart, Everyday Fiction, Flashshot, Necrotic Tissue, and a Coffee Break Short from Eternal Press.

I have several works in progress, but I intend to dedicate my summer to promoting Rainbow Sheep.

MY LIGHT Magazine Illustrator Contest

Media Contact: Jennifer Gladen
Editor, MY LIGHT MAGAZINE
Email: mylight@jennifergladen.com



FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE:

MAGAZINE LAUNCHES ILLUSTRATION CONTEST FOR THEIR DEBUT ISSUE

PENNSYLVANIA (May 29, 2008) -- The new Catholic E-Zine for children, My Light Magazine, is holding an illustration contest. The winner’s artwork will become the cover of My Light’s debut issue in August 2008.
My Light is a free online Catholic magazine for children. “The mission is to help children better understand their faith and grow closer to God,” Editor Jennifer Gladen said. The magazine includes stories, articles, crafts, Bible stories and poems.
Ms. Gladen is excited about the upcoming contest. “This is a great opportunity. Illustrating for the cover of a debut issue is an impressive addition to the resume’.” Deadline is July 1, 2008. Entries not chosen for August will receive first consideration for future issues.
For further information and guidelines, visit http://mylightmagazine.tripodcom Media contact: mylight@jennifergladen.com

*************
Jennifer GladenEditor, My Light Magazinehttp://mylightmagazine.tripod.comhttp://mylightmagazine.stblogs.comhttp://www.groups.yahoo.com/group/mylight

Author of A Star in the Night(Guardian Angel Publishing,Summer 2008)www.jennifergladen.com

A Wonderful Website for Children's Authors

Robyn Opie--Author, Children's Books (an Australian author with more than 70 books to her credit) has a great website for children's authors. She offers numerous how-to articles on writing children's stories from picture books to YA. In her online Writing Tips, she shows all the ways to "make your story sparkle." I especially liked her article, "How to Edit Your Children's Book." She explained all the ingredients for writing a winning story-- pace, word choice, transitions, endings, and more. And in her presentation on "Plotting a Children's Book," she provides a plot map--a visual on how she plots her stories. Another of my favorites was her article, "Creating Ideas for Children's Books." Ms. Opie explains the way to never run out of story ideas is to be always on the lookout for them--open to new possibilities at every turn in your everyday life. It means "thinking and behaving as a writer" in every moment.

Ms. Opie's site was chosen as one of Writer's Digest 101 Best Websites for 2008. You can learn more about her at this YouTube interview. She offers online writing courses, as well.

And for more writing helps, visit my TIPS FOR WRITERS.

Interview with Mary Jean Kelso

Yesterday, artist & illustrator K.C. Snider, was featured and told of her work with THE CHRISTMAS ANGEL and ANDY AND THE ALBINO HORSE series. Today, the author of these books--Mary Jean Kelso--welcomes us into her world of words.

Interview with Mary Jean Kelso
BY MAYRA CALVANI

Mary Jean, do you consider yourself to be a born writer?


Yes. From the time I was able to pick up a piece of paper and a pencil. I spent a lot of years not knowing that was the direction I was going, so I trained as an administrative assistant and fortunately became a very fast typist!

Tell us about THE CHRISTMAS ANGEL. What was your inspiration for it?


The Christmas Angel was a piece I made into "mini" books about 1 inch by 3 inches and totally "hand made." I did it because kids were wanting to buy books when I did a signing, and the parents didn't want to spend $6.95 for a book. So, I sold "mini" books for $1 just so the kids could get them. Then I found, since it was Christmas time, adults were buying 24 at a time. They wanted to include them in their Christmas cards. So, I knew the story was a hit.

Tell us about your children's books.

K.C. Snider illustrated the first, The Christmas Angel. She is also illustrating the sequel (One Family's Christmas) and the Andy and the Albino Horse series. We are both very excited about our work with Guardian Angel Publishing.

Have you ever suffered from writer's block? If yes, how did you "cure" it?

Yes! How I cured it was to stop listening to all the people that were telling me "how" to write. I was looking at hard and fast rules I was afraid to break, and until I became honest and wrote what I wanted to the way I wanted to write it I wasted a lot of time worrying if I was doing it right.

Are you a disciplined writer? What is your working style? Do you like to outline and plot ahead, or are you more of a stream-of-consciousness writer?


I'm a steam-of-consciousness writer. I like the surprise when the story takes a turn. I like getting the excitement the first time like the reader does. I will go through the rough draft and list the chapters and put down a sentence that describes what it is basically about just to make sure I'm tracking properly. I tend to do a lot of rewrites and have fun with the things that "pop" up to add.

Do you have a website/blog where readers may learn more about you and your works?

I have a website and an author's page at AuthorsDen.

What are you working on now?

I am a multi-genre writer. I write for a newspaper, write for adults and YA as well as for children. Right now I am working on my Homesteader series — #4. #3 is due out in May so the editing starts in a couple of months. I am working with K.C. Snider in the sense that we teleconference on the illustrations for the next several books for GAP and trying to keep up with the newspaper as well as doing signings as often as possible.

Where are your children's books available?

My books are available at Guardian Angel Publishing, Amazon, Barnes and Noble, and a lot of gift shops.

What advice would you offer aspiring writers?

Listen to your own voice. Only you know how you want to write the book and what works for you.

A Contest for Kids & A Contest for Children's Authors

Please check out these fun contests:


To celebrate her new release of The Gollywhopper Games (HarperCollins/ Greenwillow) , Jody Feldman is holding a contest for kids from 8-15 years old and a drawing for authors and others. Kids who send in the correct solution to the puzzle posted at the Contests link at http://www.gollywhoppergames.com/ can win a Nintendo DS Lite or The Gollywhopper Games T-shirt. And if you post this info on a blog or pass it along to a family with age-eligible children or to an elementary or middle school teacher, you'll be entered to win a signed copy of The Gollywhopper Games and a T-shirt. But you'll need to let her know you've done so by sending in an email at mailto:jody@jodyfeldman.com to enter.



CHEERIOS CONTEST
Spoonfuls of Stories
This contest is looking for children's authors who have not been previously published. The deadline for entering is July 15, 2008. Win $5,000 and the chance to have your story published by Simon & Schuster Children's Publishing.
Look for the official rules at the Cheerios website.

Ready! Set! Start writing!!!

Artist & Illustrator, K.C. Snider

Today, artist and illustrator, K.C. Snider, shares her story in this interview by Mayra Calvani, author and book reviewer.

Do you consider yourself to be a born illustrator?

Yes! I’ve been drawing since I was 10 years old. I can’t remember wanting to do anything else but to be an artist. I greatly admired the work of Norman Rockwell, America’s most famous illustrator; his work had a great influence on me. As a young adult, I attended commercial art school and graduated with honors. I intended on becoming a commercial illustrator, but marriage and family came first. With encouragement from many people including my husband, I began to paint again and became more of a fine artist. Now through my association with Mary Jean Kelso and then Guardian Angel Publishing, I have been able to add illustration to my portfolio.Did you always want to be an illustrator?
I would say that I have always been an illustrator because even when I am painting a piece that is just for my own enjoyment, I am telling a story.

What do you do for inspiration and unleashing your creativity?

When I was illustrating Mayra’s picture book, “The Magic Violin,” I played classical music. It was a great inspiration to me. Usually, it is not hard for me to get inspiration. Because I love my work so much, sometimes my fingers just itch to pick up the brush or pencil.

Describe your working environment.

I have a studio with lots of windows in my home that is devoted to my work. Right now, we are doing a little remodeling and I’ll have a new wood floor and a cabinet with a glass door to display my ribbons and awards for my art. My studio is my sanctuary. My husband, Fred, has a separate studio for his framing which we built this past year. That has given me a lot more space in my own studio which I needed because I may have a number of pieces in progress at any given time.

Are you a disciplined illustrator?What is your working style?

Yes, I am very disciplined. As a trained commercial artist, I know that I have to complete my work in a timely manor. And I love my work; I love the sense of accomplishment when a piece is finished and I get kudos from my family and friends. Although I work at all times of the day, I do a lot of my work in the evening. At times I will get so engrossed in my work that it will be 2 am before I put down the brush or pencil. When I’m illustrating, I typically have a work of fine art in progress that I switch to from time to time just to give me a break. Right now my work in progress is a painting of some pioneer children, their teacher and a one-room school house in the late 1800’s.

Do you have a website/blog where readers may learn more about you and your works?

You bet: http://kcsniderart.com/

What are you working on now?

I’m illustrating the second in the series of ‘Andy and Spirit’ books written by Mary Jean Kelso, titled “Andy and Spirit Go to the Fair.” The first in the series, “Andy and the Albino Horse,” [was] published by Guardian Angel Publishing in April 2008. This has been a very challenging series for me because the subject is much more complicated. Andy is a young boy in a wheelchair, so I have a new dimension to think about. And Spirit is an albino mustang, a very unusual horse. This series promises to be a wonderful story line for children and parents as it teaches about tolerance and compassion.

Where are your books available?

Guardian Angel Publishing, B&N, Amazon or order in person at Barnes and Noble or Borders book store.What was your experience in working with a writer? The first book I illustrated was “The Christmas Angel” written by Mary Jean Kelso who happens to be a personal friend. During the process of illustrating that book, Mary had very little input. Then I was given the opportunity to illustrate “The Magic Violin” written by Mayra Calvani. Mayra wanted more input and I want to thank her for all of her assistance during the process. I learned so much about working with a writer as the emails flew back and forth from Oregon to Belgium. It was a great experience. Now that I am illustrating another book for Mary, we are communicating constantly about the illustrations and I feel that my work is better because of this collaboration.

Click here to read a review of THE CHRISTMAS ANGEL at STORIES FOR CHILDREN ezine.

Andy and Spirit now have a blog you can visit to learn more about the series, as well as its illustrator--K.C. Snider, and its author--Mary Jean Kelso.

For information on Mayra Calvani, here are additional links:

http://www.violinandbooks.wordpress.com/

http://www.thedarkphantom.wordpress.com/ http://www.thefountainpennewsletter.blogspot.com/

http://mayrassecretbookcase.com/

http://mayrassecretbookcase.blogspot.com/

Baseball Books & a Birthday

Happy Birthday wishes are in order today for my son, Dan!!! He's shown at the left with his father on his wedding day, two and a half years ago. From the very first, he loved sports--baseball, basketball, soccer...

So as a salute to Dan (who played a valiant Little League catcher) and in the spirit of the summer season, I'll highlight a few baseball books today.

The Littlest Leaguer by Syd Hoff. Harper Collins, 2008.
An EZ reader in which the main character shows that determination overcomes obstacles.

Hello, Fredbird! by Ozzie Smith. Mascot Books, 2006. (I put this one in for Dan.)
St. Louis Cardinals' mascot, Fredbird, shares his fun at the ballgame.

Swindle by Gordon Korman. Scholastic, 2008. When a boy is cheated out of a rare Babe Ruth baseball card, he leads an unlikely team of friends to right his wrong.

The Aurora County All-Stars by Deborah Wiles. Harcourt, 2007. When 12-year-old House (a pitcher with a broken elbow) somehow manages to overcome his animosity toward pesky visitor, Frances, he helps combine forces for both an exciting baseball game and a winning performance for Aurora County's 200th Anniversary pageant.

Edward's Eyes by Patricia MacLachlin. Atheneum, 2007. A bittersweet story of a family's loss and legacy woven around the game of baseball.

Summerland by Michael Chabon. Hyperion, 2002. In this first novel for younger readers by the Pultizer Prize winning author, Mr. Chabon offers a rich fantasy story for older readers which weaves mythological elements into the ultimate contest of baseball.

I just had to include SUMMERLAND because I read it shortly after I'd finished the first draft of my fantasy baseball novel for middle grade readers (THE SLIGHTLY TANGLED TALES OF JIM-BO BAXTER.) I couldn't believe that someone else had thought of combining the two worlds (although Mr. Chabon's fantasy world is on a much more elevated level than mine.) Still I felt honored that I'd shared a bit of writing inspiration with such a great writer--and I recently had the opportunity to met Mr. Chabon and listen to his thoughts on writing. What a wonderful experience! And while my TALES has earned a regional award from SCBWI, it has yet to find a publishing home.

So hats off to my amazing son, Dan, on his birthday! And may his favorite baseball team, the CARDINALS, have another World Series winning season.

And three cheers for great summer reads!

SUMMER READING SUGGESTIONS

Children’s Choice Book Awards
Children’s Book Council on May 13 announced this year’s winners.

2008 Summer Reading Olympics
Reading Is Fundamental provides a fun list of athletic titles sure to please even the picky readers on your list.

Ezra Jack Keats Award 2008
This award was established in 1985 to recognize new authors & illustrators in the children’s arena for picture books for children 9 & under. For past winners, click on the link above.

• THE APPLE PIE THAT PAPA BAKED by Lauren Thompson/Illustrator: Jonathan Bean
  
  LEAVES by David Ezra Stein

What Books Kids Are Reading (May 5, 2008)
The following list is provided by Renaissance Learning and based on information from their Accelerated Reader program used in schools throughout the United States. For a complete list of favorite titles per grade, click on the link above.

1-Green Eggs & Ham
2-If You Give a Mouse a Cookie
3-Charlotte’s Web
4-Tales of a 4th Grade Nothing
5-Bridge to Terabithia
6-Hatchet
7&8-The Outsiders

An Interview with Jason Wells

Jason Wells, the Director of Marketing & Publicity at Harry N. Abrams Inc., was interviewed recently at Just One More Book on May 5 and 12, 2008.
Some highlights from the interviews were Jason’s thoughts on what constitutes a good website. He suggested it be a “one-stop-shop for everyone.” According to Jason, the site should be relevant for all—librarians, teachers, readers. A good website should promote the book for readers by providing additional character information, games, links, etc. Plus, it should encourage new readers as well—excite them about reading the book for themselves and sharing the experience.
Jason noted that the more an author has out there (on the Internet), the more likely it is for someone to find out about the book. However, he also stated that a review in a major newspaper or magazine still sells more books than a blog review.
To find out more publicity inside information, visit Just One More Book and listen to Jason’s interviews.
The site also has tons of book reviews and author interviews. The American Library Association’s Library Services to Children has given Just One More Book their “Great Web Site” seal of approval. It’s a wonderful site. Allow yourself some extra time when you visit because as the name suggests, you’ll want to listen/read about just one more book or author.

Summer Sun & Monster Mania

I don't know about where you are, but where I am right now, it's getting pretty toasty. So I thought it would be a good time to remind you about Donna Shepherd's book, OUCH! SUNBURN, illustrated by Kevin Scott Collier. Donna's enjoyable rhyming read instructs kids on the importance of skin care when going out into the sun. And Kevin's fun pictures help bring the message home.

And you'll also want to check on Kevin's new blog, Professor Horace's Cryptozoology Research Center. Professor Horace will be featured in Kevin's soon-to-be released picture book, PROFESSOR HORACE, CRYPTOZOOLOGIST, from Guardian Angel Publishing. Professor Horace is on the hunt for monsters--Big Foot, the Loch Ness Monster, and more.

Perhaps you would like to join the professor's hunt. Have you noticed any mysterious creatures lurking about lately? A long black tail slipping away into the bushes? A huge footprint along the pathway? Or a strangely-shaped head skimming the surface of the pond? Oooh, did you just hear that odd howl?
Sorry, I've got to go and notify the professor immediately...

FINDING A MATCH MADE IN HEAVEN

TIPS TO HELP YOU FIND THE RIGHT ARTIST
by Kim Sponaugle
So let's say that you really don't know where to begin to find an artist to illustrate your children's book. Whether you hire an artist directly or the publisher provides one for you, it's good to have a solid idea of the "feel" you are looking for. You can research several websites such as http://www.picturebook.com/ or http://www.childrensillustrator.com/ to aid in the selection process. You can browse through pages of artists, view their illustrations and build a file of what you like. This file can give the artist a good idea of the style and feel you are looking for. You can email artists directly for information regarding a quote.

Here is a list of things to remember:
1. Have a budget idea for your project even while you are asking for a quote.
2. Hire a professional or someone who has some experience in book illustration. If you are new to book publishing, it's best to work with an experienced illustrator—ultimately, it can be less stressful, and with the right match you will find it is worth every penny!
3. Contact authors the artist has worked with, if you can—this is a great way to see if it has been a good experience for them and will be for you.
4. A contract is important. Always request a contract. It protects and clarifies both the author’s and artist’s obligations to the project.
5. Be flexible, willing to negotiate. Most artists are fair folks and are willing to work with you if the price is reasonable. If not, there are many other fish in the sea!
6. Ask if the artist would be willing to sketch a main character to see if they are a match. Many artists that are interested in your project will be willing to do this for you—for free.
7. Keep an open mind regarding creativity. The artist needs some "room" to illuminate your words. Be patient. Wonderful things can happen!
8. Share your ideas, but leave room for artistic license. There is a balance between the word and image. It's now time to leave your "baby" in the artist's capable hands.
9. Avoid calling the artist "my illustrator." Remember the book's completion is a team effort and, to make your book the best it can be, there needs to be mutual respect.
10. Take your time when searching. Do not let passion for your book project cause you to make hasty and "costly" decisions.
Enjoy watching it all come together!
Below are just a few of Kim's picture book collaborations:
An Angel's First Job
Jamie's Dream
Grandma Kathy Has Cancer

Introducing GENNA, a Tell-It-Like-It-Is Reviewer

Latest News Flash

2nd grade book reviewer, Genna, has just read KITTY KERPLUNKING: PREPOSITION FUN. Genna loves to read, and with the help of her mom--author & illustrator, Kim Chatel--Genna is now posting reviews of the books she is reading. Genna, according to her mom, gives “the straight scoop” on the books she reviews—no sugar-coating if Genna doesn’t like them.

So I was extremely pleased when Genna posted the following review of KITTY:

This book is about prepositions. Prepositions show where, when or how. I really like the drawings. They are so cute! The main character is Preppy the kitty. He reminds me of my cat, Casey. My favorite picture is the one where Preppy the kitty and his friend are sleeping together on the chair. I like this book because of the drawings and the word games at the end. Preppy made learning about prepositions fun. I think this book would be good for young children.

Read more reviews by Genna at her mom's website...and while you're there, you'll also want to check out Kim's new book from Guardian Angel Publishing, RAINBOW SHEEP. This colorful story involves a shepherdess, some sheep, and a sad rainbow. The book includes 12 Fiber art illustrations and four full pages of Felting for Fun for kids activities, glossary & fiber art activities.

COOL STUFF

A couple cool happenings for me lately:

• On May 7, my blog was the FEATURED CHILDREN'S LIT BLOG on Children's Writing Update (the incredible newsletter for children's writers from the publishers of Children's Book Insider.) Here is what they had to say: In the past couple of years, there's been an explosion in wonderful blogs about children's books and the writing process. Now, in each issue of the Update, we'll profile a unique and helpful blog.
  This issue, we highlight an excellent example of an author's blog. Children's writer Cynthia Reeg discusses the craft of writing, her favorite books and useful tidbits for aspiring authors at her online journal. Thanks, Jon & Laura! You truly brought rays of sunshine to my otherwise supremely, soggy Wednesday.


• On May 9, while attending the end-of-year OASIS Intergenerational Tutoring luncheon, Carol Ottsen--the local director of the program--asked when my next picture book in THE PET GRAMMAR PARADE series was coming out. She told me how well KITTY KERPLUNKING: PREPOSITION FUN has been enjoyed by the tutors and children. So I was happy to inform her that the next book in the series, DOGGIE DAY CAMP: VERB & ADVERB ADVENTURES is already being illustrated by Kit Grady.

So now you know as well!

Hair, Hair, Everywhere in Picture Books

When I received this photo of one of my favorite little friends, Mia, I knew I had a feature for my blog. What fun hair Mia has!

Many children's authors have enjoyed celebrating hair--proving that a fertile imagination combined with winning words and great illustrations pave the way for picture book success. Listed below are a few hair-raising PB's...

THE UNEXPECTEDLY BAD HAIR OF BARCELONA SMITH by Keith Graves

CHELSEY'S CRAZY HAIR by Joanne Potts

FRANNY B. KRANNY, THERE'S A BIRD IN YOUR HAIR! by Harriet Lerner & Susan Goldhor

CRAZY HAIR DAY by Barney Stalzberg

BINTOU'S BRAIDS by Sylviane A. Diouf

BEDHEAD by Margie Palatini

STEPHANIE'S PONYTAIL by Robert Munsch (a classic hair adventure)

Interview with MARGOT FINKE

Yesterday, I mentioned Margot Finke as a contributor to The Purple Crayon, Harold D. Underdown's website for children's writers. Now you have the chance to find out more about Margot in this interview by Mayra Calvani.

Interview with MARGOT FINKE, Children's Author
Interview by Mayra Calvani

Do you consider yourself to be a born writer?
Yes. From childhood I scribbled down story ideas and wrote short stories.

Tell us about your recent release. What was your inspiration for it?
Guardian Angel Publishing will be releasing my picture book, Rattlesnake Jam, in the first half of 2008, in soft cover and CD. This rhyming romp tells about Pa catching rattlesnakes for crazy Gran. She cooks and bottles them as her “cure all” jam, but Pa longs for rattler served up on rice – just once! Artist Kevin Scott Collier’s illustrations are just crazy enough to make kid’s eyes pop! Rattlesnake Jam will be available from Amazon, the publisher, and through my website.

Tell us about your children's books.
I have a rhyming, 6 book series, available on CD and download. Fun and educational, they tell about animals from the U. S. and Australia. Purchase through the BOOKS page on my website (Publisher: Writers Exchange)

Two of the illustrators for this series live in Turkey. One speaks no English and has no computer. The other has a little English and does use a computer. Both are celebrated illustrators and artists in Europe. Thanks to e-mail, and a generous English-speaking friend on a writing list, who acted as go-between and interpreter, Kangaroo Clues and Never Say BOO to a Frilly were delightfully illustrated. The other four artists come from various areas in the USA. They were chosen due to the marvels of e-mail and the internet.

Kids who want to discover more fun information about the critters in this series, can go to either the “Down-under Fun” or the “Wild US Critters” pages on my website.

Some writers go on long walks, others keep a journal, write at a café, or listen to music. What do you do for inspiration and unleashing your creativity?
Great writing thoughts usually pop into my head after I go to bed. I sneak into the bathroom in the dark, and close the door. I keep paper and pencil there – just in case. . .
So, enthroned upon the toilet seat, I scribble down my ideas lest they disappear with the dawn. There must be something about taking a shower, and cleaning my teeth each night, that prods my inspirational juices to flow.

Are you a disciplined writer? What is your working style?
I got a late writing start, so now my kids are grown and on their own. I write every day in my office/flower room. This is where, every winter, I bring my delicate plants to survive the Oregon chill. My husband fitted Gro Lux lights to wall shelves, in what was once our family room. My plants and I enjoy a cozy winter together. It helps mitigate all that gray Oregon drizzle!

Do you like to outline and plot ahead, or are you more of a stream-of-consciousness writer?
A general idea strikes me, and I develop it as I write.

Do you have a website/blog where readers may learn more about you and your works?
“Margot Finke’s World of Writing for Children” is my website. It has sprouted more pages on help for children’s writers than I can count - my BOOKS, Critique Service, Secrets of Writing For Children, WAHOO, School Visits, and much more.

What are you working on now?
Finding a publishers for two Aussie mid-grade boy’s adventures--a ghost mystery set in Oregon, and a letter-driven MG involving a Grandma and her grandson and the troubling forces that draw them together.

What was your experience in looking for a publisher?
Writing books is the easy part. Finding the right publisher is frustrating. Lots of research, networking with other writers, and carefully reading many submission guidelines finally did the trick.

What was your experience in working with an illustrator?
Very positive. I found all the artists for my rhyming animal series through writing lists I am on. Our minds seemed to be in harmony. We swapped thoughts and ideas until each was perfected. I am thrilled with the results.

What type of book promotion works for you? Any special strategies you’d like to share?
A good press release helped me get interviewed by a newspaper and a photo. School visits have worked very well so far, plus purchases through my website, and being a member of AuthorsDen and FaceBook. Lots of networking over the years, plus my “Musings” column, great reviews, and my website gives my name an excellent Google presence. I also sell my books where I do conference Workshops.

We hear again and again that picture books are incredibly difficult to write. Why is that?
Picture book writers need disciplined, sparse writing that makes the most of active and powerful verbs, and well chosen, evocative adjectives. The art of weaving in word clues for the illustrator, rather than whole sentences of descriptive clutter, is hard for many writers.
It’s all about choosing a few special words that paint unforgettable pictures in a child’s head. The craft of writing a really wonderful picture book comes with practice. Some writers “get it,” while others wisely decide their path lies with writing for older children.

How do you see the future of children’s picture books?
As long as there are children to delight and confound us, there will be picture books to do the same. In the near future, I think books read on light, easy to use, and affordable hand held readers, will come into their own. Kids today are computer savvy, and it is just a matter of time and technology, before books that talk and offer colored, animated illustrations, will be all the rage. The future is almost NOW!We hear again and again that picture books are incredibly difficult to write. Why is that?

What advice would you offer aspiring writers?
Read , read, read. Write, write, write. Go to conferences, and join a really good critique group. Stick-with-it-ness is vital.

Harold D. Underdown Visits on Book Bites for Kids

This week Suzanne Lieurance (from THE NATIONAL WRITING CENTER FOR CHILDREN) is hosting Harold D. Underdown on Book Bites for Kids each afternoon (Tuesday to Friday) at 2:00 pm CST. Harold will be offering all types of advice and information for children's writers. Harold is probably best know for his phenomenal website, THE PURPLE CRAYON, a wealth of information for children's writers. And Harold has also written THE COMPLETE IDIOT'S GUIDE TO PUBLISHING CHILDREN'S BOOKS.

You can call in LIVE and ask Harold a question: 1-646-716-9239. Or if you can't listen live, use the Book Bites link above where all the interviews are archived.

And when visiting THE PURPLE CRAYON, be sure to check out fellow Guardian Angel Publishing author, Margot Finke. She has featured tips there called, "Margot's Musings."

What I've Been Reading

I wanted to share a few of the books I've been reading.

WHAT THE SEA SAW by Stephanie St. Pierre. Peachtree, 2006. This poetic look at the sea, sky, and creatures is a visual treat. Beverly Doyle’s dramatic illustrations take the reader to the scene. Her lush blues and greens intensify the author’s lilting text. Truly, this picture book is a feast for both the eyes and ears. One that will be read over and over again.

ZIGGY’S BLUE-RIBBON DAY by Claudia Mills. Farrar Straus and Giroux, 2005.Ziggy dreads the school track-and-field day because he is not athletic. He is a good artist, however. When Ziggy decorates his ribbon folder—which is filled with last place ribbons—he is soon receiving blue ribbons in trade to decorate other’s ribbon folders. Mills simple story shows how each one of us has a unique talent—coming first in the race isn’t always important. But learning to use one’s own special gifts is important.

THE APPLE DOLL by Elisa Kleven. Farrar Straus Giroux, 2007. A young girl who “loved her apple tree” decides to keep it close by making a doll from one of the apples. With some help from her mother, Lizzy transforms the apple into a grandma doll. All the other children in her class want to learn how to make apple dolls. Lizzy feels welcomed. End papers with step-by-step instructions on making an apple doll.

EMMA DILEMMA AND THE NEW NANNY by Patricia Hermes. Marshall Cavendish, 2006. Emma’s beloved ferret, Marmaduke, causes trouble for her when he escapes his cage. Threatened with losing him, Emma defies authority and with the help of the new nanny sneaks him into school for show and tell. When Marmaduke bites a student, Emma’s cover is blown. Her busy mom is more frustrated than ever with Emma and her ferret, but the new nanny, Annie, intercedes. Annie calms the household, but she has a number of potentially dangerous mishaps around the children. Will the new nanny be forced to leave like so many of the earlier ones? The children, twins Lizzie & Ira, Tim, and precocious McClain, are deeply concerned. But Annie generous offers to help with Emma’s weekend soccer and finds a place in the family.

ROUGH, TOUGH CHARLEY by Verla Kay. Tricycle Press, 2007. The fascinating story of 19th century Charley Darkey Parkhurst is told in cryptic rhyme in this beautifully illustrated picture book. Excerpts of Charley’s adventurous life are highlighted from his runaway beginnings to his stagecoach daredevil feats and his encounters with gun-toting outlaws. But the most surprising event in the true story occurs when Charley dies, and all discover that Charley is really a woman—the first woman to vote in the United States.

THE ROAD TO PARIS by Nikki Grimes. G.P. Putnam’s, 2006. Young Paris faces a tough world with her older brother Malcolm the only person she can count on for sure. Her father is long gone, and her mother is an alcoholic who has a tendency to choose abusive boyfriends. When Paris and Malcolm run away from an awful foster home, they are separated—to Paris’ great regret. But Paris finally finds herself in a loving foster family with friends and a welcoming church choir where she praises God with her gifted voice. When Paris’ reformed mother calls nine months later wanting Paris and Malcolm to come back, Paris is faced with the tough decision to reunite her dysfunctional family or stay in the safety and love she has found. A heart-warming story of hope and resurrection and of the children in our modern society who have to face a difficult world at much too young an age. Nikki Grimes’ poetic voice sings true in this middle grade novel.

Violins, Trucks, and Good Reads

Today--on this 1st of May--I had the wonderful good luck to be at Wild Horse Elementary School (The Stallions) just in time to hear the 4th Grade Violin Concert. The 4th Graders were amazing, playing a fun array of songs ranging from Twinkle, Twinkle Little Star to a very modern We Will Rock You! I eagerly joined in the clapping and rocking to the super sounds of these 4th Grade Stallions violin virtuosos. My May Day hat is off as I bow to all of them for a great performance.
Here are my suggestions for some great books about violins:
Playing the Violin and Stringed Instruments by Allison Hunka and Philippa Bunting
The Magic Violin by Mayra Calvani

Also at Wild Horse Elementary I spent some time with Kurtis and Drew. We all thoroughly enjoyed reading Truck Driver Tom by Monica Wellington. Kurtis and Drew designed their own trucks from tag board and colored them. Finally, I helped them find some produce photos in the newspaper, which they cut out and glued onto their trucks for cargo--just like in TRUCK DRIVER TOM.
Truly, this is a fun book on many levels. The art work and maze of trucks & vehicles make this an almost WHERE'S WALDO of the automotive world. But the boys loved the zany combination of photographs and illustrations. Drew cracked-up each time he found a real person's face peeking out of a car/truck/bus window. And Kurtis enjoyed the end paper challenge to find the page where each of the different vehicles was pictured. And I liked the subtle way that the trucking industry was introduced to young readers. Too fun!

Last, but certainly not least today, I want to thank Anastasia Suen for bringing to my attention this wonderful list: READ ALOUD AMERICA BOOK LIST 2008. These books are chosen for various age groups, reading levels, and interests. As stated in earlier posts here on Mem Fox's READING MAGIC, it is never too soon (or too late) to start reading to/with your child. Reading and writing skills are fundamental for helping your child succeed.

For more reading aloud suggestions, go to FOR PARENTS AND TEACHERS on my website and check-out these two articles: READ ALOUD WONDERS and READING ALOUD. And there are still more READING FUN suggestions at the FOR KIDS section too.

Get ready! Set! READ!!!