Review for Behold! The Dinosaurs by Dustin Harbin

Behold, The Dinosaurs! (Leporello) by Dustin Harbin

Nobrow Press
November 11th, 2014
ISBN-10: 1907704949
ISBN-13: 978-1907704949
Ages 6-12 years old
20 Pages

 Leporello Comic   Animals    Fossils

Can you name 101 dinosaurs off the top of your head? How about the longest? Dustin Harbin revisits some of the most awe-inspiring dinosaurs to roam the earth in the Leporello format, a simple but beautifully illustrated infographic book that unravels 6.5 feet long. Dinosaurs who lived in the Paleozoic to the Mesozoic eras are shown. The dinosaur’s names, length, period, order or group it lived in, and location around the globe is listed in boxes by the dinosaurs. The illustrations also show some of the dinosaurs who were around first and how they evolved over time.

Though this isn’t a story filled with text, it is a visual story that children who love dinosaurs are going to enjoy as they scour each illustration for dinosaurs they know, and learn about dinosaurs they don’t. The author didn’t cover every single dinosaur that existed in the Paleozoic and Mesozoic eras, but he did cover a healthy portion of well known and unknown dinosaurs to delight the reader. The only quibble is the description boxes for each dinosaur. At times there were a little cluster of both dinosaurs and boxes and it was hard to tell which description belonged to which dinosaur, a line from the box to the dinosaur would have clarified that, otherwise this infographic book is a true treat for children and adults who love to learn about dinosaurs.

Dustin Harbin is a cartoonist who lives in North Carolina. He is well known in the alternative comics scene for his Diary Comics published by Koyama Press. His favorite dinosaur is—of course—the Stegosaurus.

Review for Woof by Dakota Douglas

Book Description

Publication Date: October 29, 2013

WOOF is a magical tale for ages 7 plus about a friendship between an unusual dog and a boy struggling to fit in. Jeremy Turner is the new boy at school. He’s shy and struggles to make friends. When he follows his classmates to the park, the last thing he expects is to be off on a freaky adventure. But when he meets a stray dog, weird things start to happen. The pair share an unusual secret that will put Jeremy in danger if it leaks out. An ambitious scientist is determined to use Jeremy to get 15 minutes of fame and nasty crooks will go to any lengths to keep their own secret. Can Jeremy stop them? If not, will he ever see his family and friends again? Kids & dog lovers of all ages will enjoy this action-packed fantasy tale filled with humour and suspense. A great middle grade read for adults and children to get their teeth into and enjoy together.

• Paperback: 192 pages
• Publisher: CreateSpace Independent Publishing Platform (October 29, 2013)
• Language: English
• ISBN-10: 149354196X
• ISBN-13: 978-1493541966

Review:

“Woof” by Dakota Douglas is a delightful book to spark a child’s imagination. Jeremy and his family just moved to Castlebridge. His parents are lawyers and work long hours. Jeremy often feels alone, as most children who move do until they make friends. One day at the park he passes by some children from his school. They are going to play soccer. Jeremy loves to play soccer but one of the children thinks he is stuck up so doesn't give him a chance. Jeremy feels more alone then ever, until a dog comes up to him. Always wanting a dog, Jeremy and him became fast friends. But the dog is a special dog and after hearing Jeremy's wish that he would rather be a dog than a human, the dog makes the wish come true. They change bodies, like in the movie Freaky Friday, and experience the others life. When Jeremy realizes that the grass is not greener on the other side, and in fact much worse, he wishes to be human again. But can he help save them both and discover some inner purpose when he helps catch some nasty crooks?  

This 192 page chapter book is a story with a great message. Children who have moved will be able to relate to the character's plight. They will also enjoy the twists and turns in the story that are woven in a fantasy way. The chapters are only a few pages long so is appropriate for young readers 7-11 years of age. There are also a few pictures. These are simple and sweet, though at times the kindness of the character pictures doesn't always match up with the characters true ambitions but they do give a good representation. 

Interview with Jimmy Olsen for Things in Ditches-A Murder Mystery Novel

Come and join me as I talk with author Jimmy Olsen about his novel Things in Ditches -A Murder Mystery Novel on Stories From Unknown Authors http://blogtalkradio.com/storiesfromunknownauthors at 1pm EST today.





 


Summary:

"Vicky Johnson's killer rolled onto his right side, drew his knees up under the warm covers and cautiously peeked through the darkness at the crisp digits of the clock-radio counting his last moments on earth, death waiting patiently for him to shower and dress. The secret he thought, is not to open your eyes and let the world in.
"So begins the story of Dutch Cleland, a man with a hidden past and a future about to explode in his face. A seemingly average man whose love for two women drives him to such extremes that deception, even murder and suicide are no longer unthinkable."

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http://jimmyolsen.net/books/

 

File Size: 672 KB

Print Length: 312 pages

Publisher: Hoffman House Press (October 2, 2010)

Sold by: Amazon Digital Services, Inc.

Language: English

ASIN: B0045OUHSM

Other Books:

         

 

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#RRBC Member of the Month for Milele Safari: An Eternal Journey

MEMBER OF THE MONTH

DECEMBER, 2014

JAN HAWKE

I was born in 1958 in Plymouth, Devon to the best parents in the world who are still thankfully with us…(in spirit, in my father’s case) who went on to present me with three more sisters.  We weren’t too well off to start with, but my father was a talented sign-writer and maker and ended up with his own successful business.  We grew up surrounded by paint and paper and so we all loved to draw and make things.  We were all pretty good at it.  I used to draw for my younger sisters:  characters from games we used to play and cowboys and horses were popular themes, as well (we inherited Dad’s Wild West fixation).  Our childhood was pretty stable and though we all got into the usual childhood scrapes, the error of our ways were gently pointed out to us.  We were taught that treating others as you would like to be treated yourself was the sensible way to be happy in life.  It still works, too, Mum and Dad, so thank you more than I can express.

Jan is the author of Milele Safari:  An Eternal Journey and she also loves writing poetry.

She’d love to have you visit her on her blog;  Follow her on Twitter @JanHawke , as well asFacebook.

 “MILELE SAFARI:  AN ETERNAL JOURNEY” 

Jan  is one of those uber-supportive members here at Rave Reviews Book Club!  You will find her tweets all over the place for everrrrryyyybody!   She is very deserving of this award and she will also receive a $10 Amazon Gift Card!  Please support our MEMBER OF THE MONTH by picking up a copy of either of her books listed below, if you can, supporting her on Social Media and by all means, tweet, re-tweet and share this page thru the month of December in honor of her! @JanHawke

Review for Fairy Dust by WJ Scott

http://www.wendyjscott.com/fairy-dust-1st-para.html

Book Description

Publication Date: August 2, 2014 | Age Level: 6 - 12

Mischief and magic. Tinkers and fairies. Do you believe in magic?

Farran Sherwin cupped a hand to his ear and said, “I can’t hear you. Do you believe in fairies?”
The hall erupted into chaos as children sprang out of their seats, spilling popcorn under their feet as they yelled, “Yes!”
The tinker staggered as if he had been struck by a sound-wave and the children giggled.
Farran cocked his head. “Listen. Can you hear someone?”
A hush settled over the children. They perched on the edge of their seats, palms gripping the armrests. Their faces were pinched tight as they gazed up at the stage.
He widened his eyes and whispered, “She’s coming.”

Evelyn, an orphan, doesn’t believe in magic anymore, but then the meddlesome tinkers arrive in her village and change her world forever.

A bedtime tale to delight younger readers or those still young at heart.

A heart-lifting tale suitable for junior readers or a perfect bedtime read by parents and grandparents for younger children.

“Do you believe in fairies?” 

• File Size: 960 KB
• Print Length: 16 pages
• Simultaneous Device Usage: Unlimited
• Publisher: Wendy Scott; 1 edition (August 2, 2014)
• Sold by: Amazon Digital Services, Inc.
• Language: English
• ASIN: B00MDACIG4
• Text-to-Speech: Enabled 

Review:

Fairy Dust is a short story about a child who lost her parents and lives with her aunt and uncle. She is introverted, hurt from her loss. At a magic show a man named Farran tries to get her to speak and enjoy the fun like the other children, but she says she doesn't believe in magic. It is then that Farran finds a way to help her. Fairies have always been known to attract children and adults alike. The mysteries of their very existence fascinates the world, but to a child with a great imagination anything is possible. That is what Farran shows and in so doing helps the girl believe in something in which she thought she had lost by a tragedy.

This story is whimsical and light hearted. Children of all ages who love fairies will adore the message the author provides and even though the ending is a mystery all in itself, it is easy to imagine what the girl might have saw on her fairy adventure into the unknown. 

Free Holiday Book Promotion

HOLIDAY PROMOTIONS!

Because of the giving of the holiday season, I would like everyone to try out a PDF copy of my newest book in the Crypto-Capers Series Book 6 The Mystery of the Circus For Hire. This book is for 4th graders and up into middle school. All you have to do is just submit your e-mail address and the page will take you to the file you will be able to download. If you enjoy the book and submit a positive review on Amazon, I will send you for free Book 3 in the Joe-Joe Nut Series The Secret of the Missing Arch. This is for 3rd graders and up. Just e-mail me at cdrahand@yahoo.com and send me a link to the review and I will then gift you a copy to your e-mail. Here is the Amazon link to post the review. The Mystery of the Circus For Hire  

Thank you so much and I hope everyone will enjoy my books.

Happy Holidays!

Holiday Promotion Link

Guest Post For Climbing For Roots by Alan Noble

Title: Climbing for Roots Author: Alan Noble Genre: Religion/Spiritual Growth/Christian Life Publisher: Axiom

Climbing for Roots will explain fully the sin that so completely corrupted creation, and the plan of God for our salvation. We learn that Jesus is not only our Savior, but is also the Lord of our lives. What does that mean? That obedience will never earn us God’s love but it will always produce blessing. We learn that our salvation is secure, but we must strive for obedience because we are created to do good works.

 

When we trust Jesus for salvation, we become members of a new family—the family of God, also known as the church. Imagine! God is now our Father. As members of this incredible family, certain changes take place within us. We get learn about worship and praise, and have a relationship with Him. Climbing for Roots will teach us about ourselves as new creations, about this church, and about Jesus, the Son of God! We learn about the two ordinances or rites Jesus has given His church that will help us to remember who we are as Christians—baptism, and communion. As a member of God’s church, we learn that we are to serve each other in unity. We must consider others more important than ourselves. We learn that we need to persevere together, so that when Jesus returns, He will find us doing what He has left us here to do—serving Him by serving others.

 

Purchase at:

 

Amazon: http://www.amazon.com/Climbing-Roots-Christian-Foundations-Believers/dp/1581694970

 

Barnes and Noble: http://www.barnesandnoble.com/w/climbing-for-roots-alan-noble/1118630853

Alan R. Noble is a born-again Christian, schooled in the Word since childhood. He was fortunate to sit under capable preaching and teaching throughout his life. His passion for the spiritual welfare of young people grew out of his years of work experience, and his understanding of the Scriptures. He realizes that young Christians need instruction in the meat as well as the milk of the Word (Hebrews 5:12-14). Mr. Noble was educated at William Paterson University, a liberal arts institute in Northern New Jersey, and received a B.A. in education, with a certificate to teach elementary school. Later, he received an M.A. in Communication Arts, and a certificate in supervision. He worked as an educator for 31 years. After his retirement from public education Mr. Noble enjoyed teaching in Christian Schools in New Jersey and Texas. These days find Alan and his wife Kathie enjoying their travels between Kansas City and northern New Jersey as they visit their daughters’ families that include six beautiful grandchildren.

Pump Up Your Book and Alan are teaming up to give away a $25 Amazon Gift Card!

Terms & Conditions:

•​By entering the giveaway, you are confirming you are at least 18 years old. •​One winner will be chosen via Rafflecopter to receive the prize. •​This giveaway begins November 3 and ends on November 28, 2014. •​Winner will be contacted via email on December 1, 2014. •​Winner has 72 hours to reply. •​VOID WHERE PROHIBITED. Good luck everyone! ENTER TO WIN! a Rafflecopter giveaway

Climbing for Roots Book Blitz Schedule

November 3

Cheryl’s Christian Book Connection

November 4

The Blended Blog

November 5

The Book Connection

November 6

Literarily Speaking

November 7

The Busy Mom’s Daily

November 10

Beyond the Books

November 11

Maureen’s Musings

November 12

The Story of a Writer

November 13

Vic’s Media Room

November 14

The Writer’s Life

November 17

My Devotional Thoughts

November 18

The Crypto-Capers Review

November 19

As the Pages Turn

November 20

Review from Here

November 21

Christian Children’s Authors

Lori’s Reading Corner

November 24

The Book Rack

November 25

Read For Your Future

November 26

WV Stitcher

November 28

Little Shepherd

Review for The Adventures of Nutty and Twittles

Come and join me as I talk with author Dennis Marcoux about his picture book 

Adventures of Nutty and Twittles, Oh Nuts! I Lost My Little Sister 

on Stories From Unknown Authors http://blogtalkradio.com/storiesfromunknownauthors at 1pm EST today.

About the Author:

Dennis Marcoux lived in Worcester, Massachusetts for most of his life and now resides in Cape Coral, Florida.  He has been writing children stories and poems for many years and is passionate about children reading to expand their imagination.  In his spare time, you can find him reading books as a volunteer in elementary schools and children's hospitals.  He is a member of the Gulf Coast Writers Association of Fort Myers, Florida

Follow Dennis Marcoux at:

Facebook https://www.facebook.com/pages/Dennis-Marcoux/286869338186554

About the Book:

Nutty and his sister Twittles set out to play a fun game of hide "n" seek with their friends. When Twittles is the only one missing, the game quickly changes.  Nutty has to find his sister because she may be lost in the dark and dangerous Forrest.

Review:

School is out and Mrs. Hoot gives the young children some good advice. To be careful and to watch out for each other. The children begin to play and forget what their teacher had told them. As they play hide and seek near the woods, Twittles, a young squirrel, goes missing. She is hiding in a very clever place but in so doing becomes lost. Will Nutty be able to find her before their parents find out? What lessons will they learn? Young children will enjoy listening to and reading the tale of these fabulously illustrated creatures. When children play and have fun, they sometimes forget to be careful. Children will be able to relate to the story while parents will love the message the story implies.

Title:  Adventures of Nutty and Twittles, Oh Nuts! I Lost My Little Sister

ISBN:  978-1-61244-274-7

Hardcover / Paperback 

Children Book

Pages: 24

Size of book: 8.5 X 8.5

Places where available for sale: Halo Publishing International, Amazon and Barnes & Noble 

e-Book Available Nook & Kindle 

Interview with Nicole Weaver for My Brother is my Best Friend

Come and join me as I talk with author Nicole Weaver about her picture book The Magic of Friendship on Stories From Unknown Authors http://blogtalkradio.com/storiesfromunknownauthors at 1pm EST today.



Brothers are very special. Meet two brothers that do everything together. This delightful story transcends all cultural barriers. It will warm the hearts of children from all over the world. 
 Los hermanos son muy especiales: Conozca a dos hermanos que hacen todo juntos. Esta  bella historia trasciende todas las barreras culturales. Tocará el corazón de todos los niños del  mundo.   Être frère, c'est très spécial. Voici deux frères qui font tout ensemble. Cette histoire merveilleuse transcende toutes les barrières culturelles.  L'histoire va réchauffer le cœur des enfants dans du monde entier.

• Paperback: 20 pages
• Publisher: Guardian Angel Publishing, Inc; large type edition edition (January 15, 2014)
• Language: English, Spanish, French
• ISBN-10: 1616334525
• ISBN-13: 978-1616334529

Review:

My Brother is My Best Friend is a simply told story about two twin boys who love spending time together. It shows of the bond siblings can have and how they cherish that bond. Siblings, old and young, will be able to relate to the story, with childhood memories floating to the surface of more carefree times.

The back of the book has extra activities that children will love, as well as a glossary of some of the words. The book is trilingual, having english, french, and spanish languages throughout. Children will be able to learn new languages and challenge themselves as they read along. Children from 4-8 will love this 20 page story with its colorful illustrations. Whether it be learning other languages, or relating to the story, children will love the message the author relates to the reader. 

The Power of Kindness

The power of kindness is an amazing thing. Yesterday, I was running a fundraiser for breast cancer. The people who attended the event were amazing. I knew many of the women and the fact that they came out to spend hours supporting the event, bidding on items and such, amazes me. It made me think. Then when we went out to dinner afterward, spending time with my parents after they helped me at the event, I experienced more interesting happenings.

There was an older woman standing behind me, I was standing as well, and I asked her if she wanted to sit down. She told me that it was okay, all the seats were taken. I went over to my son, who was sitting in a chair, and he gave up his sit for her. People were looking at us strangely but what amazed me is that no one else had offered the woman their seat.

In the bathroom my mother had a conversation with another woman and they were respectful to each other just by being courteous and nice when going into the stall and who was first and so on.

At dinner the waiter was respectful to us as we were to him. All this made me think that no matter where we are or what we do, if we just respected each other, everyone would get along. It was such a pleasant afternoon and it was because of the respect and kindness everyone showed each other.

The power of people can travel long distances or short. But one thing will always be true. The power of kindness, whether it be giving up your chair to someone else, or just showing your support for something else, can impact a life in a positive way, maybe making someone else's day a little more special.

Interview for The Magic of Friendship by Subhash Kommuru

Come and join me as I talk with author Subhash Kommuru about his picture book The Magic of Friendship on Stories From Unknown Authors http://blogtalkradio.com/storiesfromunknownauthors at 1pm EST today.

Book Synopsis for The Magic of Friendship:

BABBAR is a fierce and mean tiger who cannot tolerate anyone, but he is lonely and sad. HASMUKH is a funny donkey but gets scared of everyone. When the Magic of friendship touches them see how it transforms not only their characters but also transforms the whole environment around them.

The Magic of friendship is a hilarious, action packed entertaining story. There are scary moments, celebration and comical moments. While the core focus of the story is about friendship it has elements of father son bonding and family values as well.

Book gives plenty of opportunity for parents to entertain kids with their own version of animal noises. And bright and interactive illustrations is sure to leave a mark on eyes.

This is a story about change -- a transformation that comes with the magic of friendship. Personality may not change, but nature can surely change. This story will show the value of friendship and how that can change a person, particularly, one who is lonely and never really had the gift of laughter.

Book Information

Title of Book: The Magic of Friendship

ISBN:  9-7-80-99031781-4

Genre: Children's Picture Book

Publisher: Kommuru Books

Publication Date: September 2014

# of Pages: 40

www.KommuruBooks.com

Title is available at Amazon

Pick up your copy at Barnes & Noble

The Best Way to Market Your Book

We always hear of people who come from nowhere and go somewhere beyond imaginations. That statement sounds very simple but you will appreciate that someone a lot more once you get your feet into this field. Networking  is an ongoing and an uphill battle.

I believe networking is the best way to market you. Being an author is unlike any other industry there are no competitors. Everyone is an ally and you just want to make sure that you have more and more of them. Every author I have met has helped a lot. It’s truly amazing you will not find a community like this in any other field.

Bio:

Subhash and Sujata hail from India. They migrated to the United States along with their memories of childhood and youth. Now that they are parents, just like every immigrant they crave to introduce their child to the culture and values of their upbringing. Yet it is challenging to teach something while you are in the midst of adjusting to a different culture yourself.

Subhash and Sujata both work in different disciplines and have different styles and backgrounds, but it is the upbringing of their son that brings them on the same page. That exact place where they meet is captured and reflected in their stories, where Subhash can express in words, and Sujata can illustrate them beautifully. Where he puts it in black and white, she adds color to it. You get the idea!

These stories are their attempt to share a glimpse of their childhood days with their son. He is their inspiration to write short stories that have meaning to them and provide teaching in some shape or form. 

Interview with Carolyn Wolfe for The Moonsparrow Collection

Come and join me as I talk with author Carolyn Wolfe about her Moonsparrow Collection on Stories From Unknown Authors http://blogtalkradio.com/storiesfromunknownauthors at 1pm EST today.

Info:

The Moonsparrow Collection is comprised of a tapestry of Tall Tales, Myth and Magic. This compilation of tales is the best of Ms. Wolfe’s original published and unpublished Short Stories, and includes the stories that she has introduced at local public writing events and festivals.  The subject matter ranges from: A woman who turns a small town on its ear, to: a Magical midnight concert in the woods. It is a light journey into a magical world when anything can happen, and usually does

Product Details

• Paperback: 80 pages
• Publisher: Avid Readers Publishing Group (April 26, 2010)
• Language: English
• ISBN-10: 1935105531
• ISBN-13: 978-1935105534

Review:

The Moonsparrow Collection is a delightful compilation of stories that will capture the reader's attention. The author has an amazing way of weaving a tale that lures the reader in until the very end and then surprises them with the ending. The description makes the reader feel like they are truly apart of each and every adventure. The stories are light hearted, and at times, magical. Filled with wimpsy and humor, teens and adults are going to love this 80 page collection of tales.  

Guest Post for Elf Killers by Carol Marrs Phipps

RRBC MEMBER OF THE MONTH

OCTOBER, 2014

Carol Marrs Phipps

CAROL MARRS PHIPPS is a teacher turned author. She was born in Missouri, grew up in Illinois and lives on their farm in Illinois with her husband, her menagerie, a parrot, a raven, two cockatiels and her Siberian Forest cats. The books she has written with her husband, Tom Phipps include, Elf Killers which takes place a millennium before the books of the Heart of the Staff series: Good Sister, Bad Sister, The Collector Witch, Stone Heart, The Burgeoning andThe Reaper Witch, with the final book, Doom, to be released at the end of 2014. All their books are available as eBook or paperback.

Carol taught with her husband on various Native American Reservations in Arizona, New Mexico and Nevada, where they learned a great deal from their students, the very first fans of their writing. Not long after they married, she discovered to her joy that he also loved to write. They have been writing together full-time ever since.

 “ELF KILLERS” 

Carol is one of those uber-supportive members here at Rave Reviews Book Club!  She is very deserving of this award and she will also receive a $10 Amazon Gift Card!  Please support ourMEMBER OF THE MONTH by picking up a copy of either of her books listed below, if you can, supporting her on Social Media and by all means, tweet, re-tweet and share this page thru the month of October in honor of her.

http://www.amazon.com/Elf-Killers-Carol-Phipps-ebook/

http://www.amazon.co.uk/Elf-Killers-Carol-Phipps-ebook/

http://www.amazon.co.uk/Good-Sister-Heart-Staff-ebook/

http://www.amazon.co.uk/Good-Sister-Heart-Staff-ebook/

http://www.amazon.com/dp/B008KODPUK

http://www.amazon.co.uk/Collector-Witch-Heart-Staff-Book-ebook/

http://www.amazon.com/dp/B008MNDPFY

http://www.amazon.co.uk/Stone-Heart-Staff-Book-ebook/

http://www.amazon.com/dp/B008MNR6AY

http://www.amazon.co.uk/Burgeoning-Heart-staff-Book-ebook/

http://www.amazon.com/Reaper-Witch-Heart-Staff-Book-ebook/

http://www.amazon.co.uk/Reaper-Witch-Heart-Staff-Book-ebook/

CONGRATULATIONS, Carol on being our October, 2014 MEMBER OF THE MONTH!!!

Review for the newly released Crowned by Julia Dweck

http://www.amazon.com/Crowned-Julia-Dweck/dp/0991256247

Summary:

Sleepy Sheep productions presents an epic tale of adventure and comedy with Quinn the Queen Fairy. Quinn, an adventurous dreamer, is a young fairy in search of a fairy King, so she can become the fairy Queen. Can she find a hero to sweep her off her feet? When a two-headed ogre invades the fairy's village, Quinn must find a way to become her own hero and save her friends and family. A timeless story for a new age with engaging games and fun fairy facts from the bestselling author, Julia Dweck with vivid Illustrations by Beth Trott.

Kindle:

Product Details

• File Size: 11724 KB
• Simultaneous Device Usage: Unlimited
• Publisher: Sleepy Sheep Productions; 1 edition (October 22, 2014)
• Sold by: Amazon Digital Services, Inc.
• Language: English

• Paperback: 56 pages
• Publisher: Sleepy Sheep Productions LLC; 1 edition (October 10, 2014)
• Language: English
• ISBN-10: 0991256247
• ISBN-13: 978-0991256242

Author Bio:

Julia Dweck is a published author of children's books for digital and print publication. Her stories span the spectrum of humor, fantasy and edutainment in rhyme and in prose. 

Julia's background in elementary education affords her the opportunity to be in touch with what children want to read and what makes them giggle. She's collaborated with leading illustrators in the world of children's literature to produce over 30 books. Her titles have garnered placement on Amazon's bestsellers lists, "Kindle Daily Deals" and customer top rated lists. 

In her spare time, Julia is a designer of educational adjuncts for children's literature, and has worked with such notable publishing houses as Penguin Young Readers. She presented at the 2012 National Center for Family Literacy for her creative use of technology in the classroom. 

Visit Julia and her stories on Facebook at www.facebook.com/juliadweckbooks

Review:

Crowned is a magically woven rhyming tale that young children will enjoy and read over again and again. Quinn is a fairy who wants to become queen, but does she have what it takes to be queen? She believes so but how can she convince the others? So she does her research in the best know fairytale books around and discovers that the only way she can be a queen is to find a prince to aid her on her quest. 

Quinn kisses toads, but no prince appears. She gazes into a mirror, but no advice flows out. She devours apples in hoping a sleeping potion was in one so she would fall asleep and a prince would wake her, but that only left her with a full stomach. So what should she do? Uncertain, she walks around only to discover an ogre with two heads who wishes to harm her and she is all alone. When the ogre attacks her, it was not a man who saves her, oh no, it was wit and courage that saved the day. 

Quinn's fearless actions teach children to meet challenges face on and to rely on themselves not on others. Because it is our own courage, wit, and strength that make us who we are. Quinn's bravery shows kids to follow their dreams, and in doing so they will find happiness. Dreams are a delightful path all children should follow. 

The illustrations in this book are colorfully amazing. Young readers will cherish every page as they dive through. Parents will love the positive message and charming activities in the back that will add to the fun. 

Review for Seedlings Fables from the Forest by CD Baker

Author Bio:

C.D. Baker's first novel, 'A Journey of Souls,' was released in 2000 and re-released in 2004 as 'Crusade of Tears'-- a Christee Award nominee. He has written seven historical novels, two books of spiritual reflections, and one children's book published variously in the U.S., the U.K., Ukraine, and Germany. He has a Master's degree in Theology from the University of St. Andrews, Scotland. Baker's specialty is the discovery of the untold story.

Baker writes from his small farm in Bucks County, Pennsylvania, where he raises livestock with an interest in natural/organic methods and a passion for humane treatment.

Summary:

Fun fables from the forest for readers 4 - 8. Author C.D. Baker invites children to discover five virtues of a happy life through stories told by trees. The power of gratitude, humility, selflessness, kindness, and forgiveness are revealed in memorable tales that children are sure to love...and to remember.

• Paperback: 58 pages
• Publisher: CreateSpace Independent Publishing Platform; 1 edition (May 28, 2013)
• Language: English
• ISBN-10: 1484813898
• ISBN-13: 978-1484813898

Review:

Five virtues of a happier life are introduced to young readers through stories told by trees. The power of gratitude, humility, selflessness, kindness and forgiveness are shared by such memorable Tree ‘friends’ as Shady Maple, Slope-Oak, Blue Spruce, and others. The author brings trees to life in these stories, mirroring what some people often feel or believe. Blue Spruce feels she is not big enough, that she is missing something and needs to become better in some way. She accumulates more nests, grows taller, becomes bluer, but she is still not satisfied with herself. She comes to realize through a close friend that the only thing she was missing was just being thankful for what she already had. Once she was able to do that she became more content with who she was and not what she felt she needed to be. This is just one example of the great messages this book contains.

This book is a group of stories where children from 4-8 years of age will learn some great lessons. Questions at the end of each chapter invite children to consider their reactions to the story…and to themselves. The illustrations are amazing and complete the story. They are whimsical and creative. Children as well as parents will love this delightfully told book.

Book Signing Event in Northville Michigan

Hello Everyone,
I will be at Barnes and Nobles in Northville Michigan this Sunday October 19th, 2014 at 2pm to celebrate the release of my new book, The Mystery of the Circus For Hire. I will be talking about the new cipher I use and will be demonstrating it as well. I'm really excited about it. In celebration of the new release I am offering my newest book in my Joe-Joe Nut Series, The Secret of the Missing Arch, for .99 on Amazon Kindle. I hope you enjoy it. Thanks so much and hope to see you there.
Renee

Interview for Cozy Food: 128 Cozy Mystery Writers Share Their Favorite Recipes

Come and join me as I talk with author Nancy Lynn Jarvis about her book

Cozy Food: 128 Cozy Mystery Writers Share Their Favorite Recipes on Stories From Unknown Authors

http://blogtalkradio.com/storiesfromunknownauthors at 1pm EST today.

http://goodreadmysteries.com/cozy-food.htm




Summary:
What happens when 128 cozy mystery writers get together to do a cookbook? You get more than 220 recipes that are as varied and interesting as an amateur sleuth’s day job. Regional recipes come from every part of the United States and England — a couple find their way from Australia and Italy, too — and from diverse times. There are recipes from people looking to keep gluten out of their lives, eat vegetarian, or make a treat or two for their furry four-legged friends. And yes, there are recipes that appeal to the sweet tooth, lots of them, in fact. There’s no mystery about what happens when cozy writers get together. They bring the wit, inventiveness, and adventure found in their books right along with their recipes. The recipes are introduced by their authors and linked to the writer bios in the back of the book. You can look up your favorite cozy writer and see which recipes are their favorites; they'll tell you what the recipe means to them. Or you can enjoy a dish and then link to the recipe's author's biography and books. Either way you enjoy the cookbook, you're sure to find great new recipes to make and terrific new cozy authors to read.

• Paperback: 246 pages
• Publisher: Good Read Mysteries; 1 edition (May 15, 2014)
• Language: English
• ISBN-10: 0983589178
• ISBN-13: 978-0983589174
• 
  

Interview with Geena Bean for Come Back Dear Sun

Come and join me as I talk with author Geena Bean about her picture book Come Back Dear Sun on Stories From Unknown Authors 
http://blogtalkradio.com/storiesfromunknownauthors at 10am EST today.



Book Summary:

Come Back Dear Sun is a delightfully unique children’s book told in well-written rhyme and through beautiful illustrations. Young and old alike are sure to cherish this easy-flowing picture book with a memorable message. When the sun disappears for a long time, curious Kaylee cannot wait to have the sunshine back. Her imaginative plan unfolds like only an eight-year-old can conceive, and the wonder and smiles begin. She and her six-year-old sister, Mattie, along with their two friends, Fran and Lilly, plan an adventurous sleepover in an attempt to find out why the sun has disappeared. The children figure out a way to talk to the moon only to discover that the sun has left because of the lack of outdoor play. The insightful message of this story impresses both parents and children alike in order to grow appreciation of the world around us. Bean skillfully creates characters with whom children can easily relate and be inspired by. People will enjoy this wonderful, energetic children’s story with an everlasting message to remember. Parents remember childhood playtime memories as they resurface, and young listeners are enthralled with the thought-provoking questions of “What if?” Follow Kaylee and her friends on their energetic quest to bring back the sunshine to their otherwise gloomy days!

Paperback: 36 pages

Publisher: CreateSpace Independent Publishing Platform (January 3, 2013)

Language: English

ISBN-10: 1479393118

ISBN-13: 978-1479393114

About the Author

In 2003, Geena Bean graduated from Rutgers University with an English degree. For the past ten years she has been in the nanny industry, working with children and journaling her experiences with them. She has observed that the age of technology, including television, video games and computers, has often stifled the creative imaginations of children and discouraged them from going outdoors to engage in innovative free play. Her interaction with children encourages them to use imaginative play outdoors, which was the norm years ago before the age of advanced technologies.

www.geenabean.com

Review:

With colorful illustrations by Cheri Webber Come Back Dear Sun is a simple story of how children become so busy in their lives that they forget to go out and play and enjoy life. Which in turn is why they don't see, nor appreciate, the sun. The story is about two siblings, Kaylee and Mattie, who wonder where the sun has gone. They ask the moon for help who explains why the sun left. With such distractions like video games and TV's children just don't go and play outside like they used to. Their minds are distracted with other things and none of which are more important than playing outside and freeing the mind.

Geena brings up some good points many parents will be able to relate to. Her 36 page story, in a subtle way, reminds children to go out and play and be active. Have fun and really just enjoy being a kid. That's what childhood is all about. 

Guest Post For Different is Beautiful by Sherri Rabinowitz

Life is so very different today.  A child’s life is so complicated.  Between social media and texting everyone knows what everyone is doing.  It is actually scary in a way.  Some people may not get this reference but big brother is watching you.

When I was a child we did not have home computers, cell phones, DVRs, DVDs, IPods…you get the idea. We had to watch a TV show when it played, there were only three networks and 4 local channels and no cable. We listened to transistor radios, rocked to our stereos, spent most of our timeon landlines with no call waiting. I rode my bike, skateboard and roller skates.  Watched the color TV in the living room and when I was a teen I got my own princess phone and my own black and white TV. I still have it and if we could use theantenna which we can’t anymore it would still work fine.

If I sound nostalgic I am in some ways, I miss some of the fun of it. We rely so much today on computers and cells that I sometimes I feel like we are losing some of our brain capacity.

I hated to look stuff up in the dictionary at the time or the encyclopedia because I didn’t know how to spell it. But now I realize I was thinking and learning a lot more than in the age of Google. And I miss some of the simple joys of my childhood.  Laying in my bed, with my stereo playing and writing a story or reading a good book.   I still do but it I have my computer playing a fave show tune and I’m writing in my lap top.  It is the same but it isn’t.

What does all this have to do with my book, Different Is Beautiful? Well it shows that I am a different generation and that I don’t understand some of things that modern kids face. I just feel for them and the complicated lives that they face ahead of them. People always love modern life and gadgets and I play with it all too.  I own an IPod, cell phone, dvr, I text and own an e-reader (though I held out for long, long time and I still prefer a book.)  I do look things up on google all the time and I do use text on my phone. It’s all exciting and fun.

But the dark side of it is very, very dark.  There were no hackers, or predators who could just enter a home through a computer.  And when you were bullied it was not on shame site where people all over your local area can see you. Lies only went so far now they can go viral. People couldn’t create fake personas and catfish you.  There have always been bad, evil people but they never before had such access to children. Terrifying.

Also bullies were not able to let everyone in a school know what they did to their victims with a push of key.  They couldn’t have a buddy film them as they beat up a poor kid because they wore glasses, they were a different color, had a different faith orsexuality. You were not outed for kicks by angry bullies who want to hurt others.  Bullies have it so easy and because the modern technology is so anonymous it is hard to catch them. Laws are out there to protect us but unless it comes to physical harm it is rarely pursued.

My book is about the opposite of all that. Love, acceptance.  It is to teach small children to make their future bright, happy and loving.  To not only accept others but to cherish them. To invoke another reference to show my age, I would like to see the next age truly believe in IDIC, Infinite diversity in infinite combinations. The great Gene Roddenberry came up with that and it is my ideal every day.

Love is the way, if we choose to follow it.