Dee and Deb Off They Go Kindergarten First Day Jitters ~ December 2015 ~ Guardian Angel Publishing, Inc. ~ 2016 Purple Dragonfly Honorable Mention Picture Books Five and Under and Story Monster Approved A Sandy Grave ~ January 2014 ~ Guardian Angel Publishing, Inc. ~ 2014 Purple Dragonfly 1st Place Picture Books 6+, Story Monster Approved, Beach Book Festival Honorable Mention 2014 and Reader's Favorite Five Star Review Powder Monkey ~ May 2013 ~ Guardian Angel Publishing, Inc. ~ 2015 Purple Dragonfly Book Award Historical Fiction 1st Place, Story Monster Approved and Reader's Favorite Five Star Review Hockey Agony ~ January 2013 ~ Guardian Angel Publishing, Inc. ~ 2015 Purple Dragonfly Book Award Honorable Mention Picture Books 6+, New England Book Festival Honorable Mention 2014, Story Monster Approved and Reader's Favorite Five Star Review The Golden Pathway ~ August 2010 ~ Guardian Angel Publishing, Inc.
~ Literary Classics Silver Award and Seal of Approval, Readers Favorite 2012 International Book Awards Honorable Mention and Dan Poynter's Global e-Book Awards Finalist
Reviewed by Midwest Book Review, Children’s Bookwatch, The Fiction Shelf
Written by award winning children's author Donna McDine, "Powder Monkey" is a thumbnail
sketch of the impressment experience of 12-year-old Tommy Kitt who was taken by force with
his older brother from his parents' farm by a Royal Navy press gang to serve as a powder
monkey and ship boy in a battleship at sea. Enduring beatings, dangerous living conditions, and
demanding physical tasks, Tommy witnessed many brutalities including the death by drowning
of his brother. But he survived to become an able seaman, never seeing his father and mother
again. The fast moving action, bewildering immediacy, and vivid descriptions and illustrations
make "Powder Monkey" an intense time travel experience for middle grade readers.
#historicalfiction
#picturebook
~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~
Best wishes, Donna M. McDine
Multi Award-winning Children's Author
Dee and Deb Off They Go Kindergarten First Day Jitters ~ December 2015 ~ Guardian Angel Publishing, Inc. ~ 2016 Purple Dragonfly Honorable Mention Picture Books Five and Under and Story Monster Approved A Sandy Grave ~ January 2014 ~ Guardian Angel Publishing, Inc. ~ 2014 Purple Dragonfly 1st Place Picture Books 6+, Story Monster Approved, Beach Book Festival Honorable Mention 2014 and Reader's Favorite Five Star Review Powder Monkey ~ May 2013 ~ Guardian Angel Publishing, Inc. ~ 2015 Purple Dragonfly Book Award Historical Fiction 1st Place, Story Monster Approved and Reader's Favorite Five Star Review Hockey Agony ~ January 2013 ~ Guardian Angel Publishing, Inc. ~ 2015 Purple Dragonfly Book Award Honorable Mention Picture Books 6+, New England Book Festival Honorable Mention 2014, Story Monster Approved and Reader's Favorite Five Star Review The Golden Pathway ~ August 2010 ~ Guardian Angel Publishing, Inc. ~ Literary Classics Silver Award and Seal of Approval, Readers Favorite 2012 International Book Awards Honorable Mention and Dan Poynter's Global e-Book Awards Finalist
Dee and Deb Off They Go Kindergarten First Day Jitters ~ December 2015 ~ Guardian Angel Publishing, Inc. ~ 2016 Purple Dragonfly Honorable Mention Picture Books Five and Under and Story Monster Approved A Sandy Grave ~ January 2014 ~ Guardian Angel Publishing, Inc. ~ 2014 Purple Dragonfly 1st Place Picture Books 6+, Story Monster Approved, Beach Book Festival Honorable Mention 2014 and Reader's Favorite Five Star Review Powder Monkey ~ May 2013 ~ Guardian Angel Publishing, Inc. ~ 2015 Purple Dragonfly Book Award Historical Fiction 1st Place, Story Monster Approved and Reader's Favorite Five Star Review Hockey Agony ~ January 2013 ~ Guardian Angel Publishing, Inc. ~ 2015 Purple Dragonfly Book Award Honorable Mention Picture Books 6+, New England Book Festival Honorable Mention 2014, Story Monster Approved and Reader's Favorite Five Star Review The Golden Pathway ~ August 2010 ~ Guardian Angel Publishing, Inc.
~ Literary Classics Silver Award and Seal of Approval, Readers Favorite 2012 International Book Awards Honorable Mention and Dan Poynter's Global e-Book Awards Finalist
Meaningful, inspiring and moving, The Golden Pathway is a beautiful historical book for
children ages 8-12. It's an important addition to every child's bookshelf, as it will help teach your
kid about diversity, courage, compassion and doing the right thing.
The book is about two boys - two very different boys - and their unlikely friendship. David is the
son of a cruel and mean drunk. Jenkins is an African American teenage boy who is owned by
David's father (in other words, he is a slave). Though often mistreated and called "a sissy" by his
father, David knows the difference between right and wrong, and is brave enough to stand up for
his beliefs. Appalled by his father's cruel behavior and violence towards his young slaves, he's
determined to help Jenkins escape to safety. He's willing to risk his father's wrath and his own
safety, to help his friend. His compassion and understanding of social injustice, as well as his
determination to fight against it, is something truly remarkable and inspiring, especially
considering his very young age.
This book made a huge impression on me, making The Golden
Pathway an essential part of my daughter's book collection. It's a story that I'm sure will inspire
and affect her just as much as it inspired and affected me.
Historically accurate, The Golden Pathway mentions the famous Underground Railway that
helped many African Americans escape to freedom. It also mentions Quakers who firmly
believed that no one should ever be able to claim another human being as property, and who -
thanks to their persistence and fierce dedication to the cause - helped make a difference.
Through Donna McDine's accessible writing and K.C. Snider's gorgeous illustrations, The
Golden Pathway tells a powerful tale of finding strength to help those in need, even if it means
risking our own safety. A story about doing what is right and making a difference. A story of
bravery and dedication that is sure to inspire kids all around the world and help shape them into
courageous, admirable people.
Dee and Deb Off They Go Kindergarten First Day Jitters ~ December 2015 ~ Guardian Angel Publishing, Inc. ~ 2016 Purple Dragonfly Honorable Mention Picture Books Five and Under and Story Monster Approved A Sandy Grave ~ January 2014 ~ Guardian Angel Publishing, Inc. ~ 2014 Purple Dragonfly 1st Place Picture Books 6+, Story Monster Approved, Beach Book Festival Honorable Mention 2014 and Reader's Favorite Five Star Review Powder Monkey ~ May 2013 ~ Guardian Angel Publishing, Inc. ~ 2015 Purple Dragonfly Book Award Historical Fiction 1st Place, Story Monster Approved and Reader's Favorite Five Star Review Hockey Agony ~ January 2013 ~ Guardian Angel Publishing, Inc. ~ 2015 Purple Dragonfly Book Award Honorable Mention Picture Books 6+, New England Book Festival Honorable Mention 2014, Story Monster Approved and Reader's Favorite Five Star Review The Golden Pathway ~ August 2010 ~ Guardian Angel Publishing, Inc. ~ Literary Classics Silver Award and Seal of Approval, Readers Favorite 2012 International Book Awards Honorable Mention and Dan Poynter's Global e-Book Awards Finalist
A Sandy Grave ~ January 2014 ~ Guardian Angel Publishing, Inc. ~ 2014 Purple Dragonfly 1st Place Picture Books 6+, Story Monster Approved, Beach Book Festival Honorable Mention 2014, Reader's Favorite Five Star Review
Powder Monkey ~ May 2013 ~ Guardian Angel Publishing, Inc. ~ 2015 Purple Dragonfly 1st Place Historical Fiction, Story Monster Approved and Reader's Favorite Five Star Review
Hockey Agony ~ January 2013 ~ Guardian Angel Publishing, Inc. ~ New England Book Festival Honorable Mention 2014, Story Monster Approved and Reader's Favorite Five Star Review
The Golden Pathway ~ August 2010 ~ Guardian Angel Publishing, Inc. ~ Literary Classics Silver Award and Seal of Approval, Readers Favorite 2012 International Book Awards Honorable Mention and Dan Poynter's Global e-Book Awards Finalist
What a way to kick off Friday evening (February 7th) My children's book entitled, Powder Monkey is #3 in this search category… Yippee! It was #11 yesterday (February 6th).
~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~
Best wishes, Donna M. McDine
Award-winning Children's Author
Connect with Donna McDine on Google+
Powder Monkey ~ May 2013 ~ Guardian Angel Publishing, Inc.
Hockey Agony ~ January 2013 ~ Guardian Angel Publishing, Inc.
The Golden Pathway ~ August 2010 ~ Guardian Angel Publishing, Inc.
~ Literary Classics Silver Award and Seal of Approval, Readers Favorite 2012 International Book Awards Honorable Mention and Dan Poynter's Global e-Book Awards Finalist
Silence by K.C.
Snider is an incredible illustrated book without words providing the glorious
opportunity to change the story each time.
Anything is but silent of the featured golden-mantled ground
squirrel. K.C. Snider brings to life the day-to-day adventures through her magnificent
illustrations making the reader fully immersed in the story, often times
feeling as if they are part of the story. The illustrations are completed with
such precision they often look like flawless photographs.
Enjoy the journey of storytelling of what happens next for
each sit down will be different from the last. Your child’s and your own
imagination will abound with endless possibilities.
K.C. Snider resides in Redmond, Oregon with her husband and
with the backdrop of the Oregon Cascade Mountains it’s no wonder the beauty of
Snider’s artwork spill from the pages.
Best wishes, Donna M. McDine
Award-winning Children's Author
Connect with Donna McDine on Google+
Powder Monkey ~ May 2013 ~ Guardian Angel Publishing, Inc.
Hockey Agony ~ January 2013 ~ Guardian Angel Publishing, Inc.
The Golden Pathway ~ August 2010 ~ Guardian Angel Publishing, Inc.
~ Literary Classics Silver Award and Seal of Approval, Readers Favorite 2012 International Book Awards Honorable Mention and Dan Poynter's Global e-Book Awards Finalist
My historical fiction children's book, Powder Monkey, was submitted to Reader's Favorite yesterday for a review. Expecting a 10 week turnaround, I was pleasantly surprised to receive notification of the review.
Reader's Favorite Book Reviewer, Lit Amri has bestowed me the honor of a Five Star review. I'm over the moon!
A snippet... "Donna M. McDine's ability as an excellent storyteller is undeniable. Worthy praise goes to illustrator K.C. Snider for the beautiful and nostalgic style of illustrations."
Best wishes, Donna M. McDine
Award-winning Children's Author
Connect with Donna McDine on Google+
Powder Monkey ~ May 2013 ~ Guardian Angel Publishing, Inc.
Hockey Agony ~ January 2013 ~ Guardian Angel Publishing, Inc.
The Golden Pathway ~ August 2010 ~ Guardian Angel Publishing, Inc.
~ Literary Classics Silver Award and Seal of Approval, Readers Favorite 2012 International Book Awards Honorable Mention and Dan Poynter's Global e-Book Awards Finalist
What better way for a children's author to start their day... Checking email and receiving the galley proof of their latest book. I finally learned how to take a snippet of the computer screen (yes, Thomas John...I can now do this for what we need to do) and I'm over the moon to share with you.
Illustrator, K.C. Snider once again has blown me away! This is our second book together and she has exceeded my expectations!
Thanks to my wonderful publisher, Lynda Burch of Guardian Angel Publishing. She is a true gem!
Over the next several months plans will be set into motion for a virtual book tour, which will include Powder Monkey and Hockey Agony.
Let the final proofread begin!
~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~
Best wishes, Donna M. McDine
Award-winning Children's Author
Connect with Donna McDine on Google+
The Golden Pathway ~ August 2010 ~ Guardian Angel Publishing, Inc.
~ Literary Classics Silver Award and Seal of Approval, Readers Favorite 2012 International Book Awards Honorable Mention and Dan Poynter's Global e-Book Awards Finalist
I am over the moon to share with you the book cover of Powder Monkey by the incredibly talented illustrator, K.C. Snider! This is our second partnership, the first in August 2010 for the award-winning historical fiction children's book The Golden Pathway.
Publication date: Summer/Fall 2012
More details to come....
~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~
Best wishes,
Donna M. McDine
Award-winning Children's Author The Golden Pathway ~ August 2010 ~ Guardian Angel Publishing, Inc.
~ Literary Classics Silver Award and Seal of Approval Recipient and Dan Poynter's Global e-Book Awards Finalist
The Importance of a Teacher’s Guide for your Children’s Book
By Donna McDine
After I signed the book
contract for The Golden Pathway I
took the time out to discuss with teachers what sparks their interest in
children’s books for their classrooms beyond what the school provides. Many
times over I heard they are under strict confinements with their curriculum and
books need to fit into their daily teachings. I then took to task to research
state curriculum guidelines and learned the creation of an educator’s guide for
The Golden Pathway needed to be a
comprehensive across the curriculum guide. After meeting homeschool specialist,
Amy O’Quinn through the Working Writer’s Club I approached Amy about hiring her
to write a teacher’s guide for The
Golden Pathway. The end result was beyond my expectations!
The teacher’s guide is a
teaching tool for English, Social Studies, Math, Science, and Art teachers, as
well as for Homeschooling families. Activities include:
Language
Arts: Writing/Vocabulary
Integrated Language Arts/Social Studies: Topical
Study/Presentation Boards
Social Studies: Timeline, Mapping and Geography
Math: Map Work Mathematics, Calculations, Time, Recipe
Math, Quilt Math
Science: Astronomy, Skin, Plants and Crops, Alcoholism,
Five Senses
Role Playing, Disguises and Escape/Safe Houses
Toys and Games of the 19th Century: Make a Rag Doll,
Make a Nettie Doll, Information on Games/Toys
Songs of Slavery and the Underground Railroad:
Background Information and Lyrics
More Fun Art Projects, Activities, and Resources:
Coloring Sheets, Printables, Juneteenth, Make A Tin Can Lantern
It is in my opinion well
written children’s books have a better chance of finding their way into schools
when it is accompanied with an educator’s guide. By having this guide for The Golden Pathway it has certainly
helped spark additional interest with school visits. Case in point, when I
participated in the New York State Reading Association, October 2011 I had the
opportunity to meet with teachers from across the tri-state area (NY, NJ, and
CT) and many commented on the educator’s guide I was chatting up with them as
they stopped by my table. They were delighted and impressed to learn of this
complimentary addition to The Golden
Pathway, explaining their time is at a premium and to have activities
already planned for them saves them valuable time. At this point in time, one
of these conversations has turned into a weeklong visit to a local elementary
school. The Parent Teacher Association purchased The Golden Pathway for each classroom and when I presented each
teacher with the complimentary CD of The
Golden Pathway Educator’s Guide their responses where overwhelming
positive. Knowing even beforehand how essential an educator’s guide is, I’ve
already hired Amy O’Quinn to create educator’s guides for my future books.
As writers many of us
can and do create our own teacher’s guides, but for myself I wanted someone
with the expertise of being in the trenches of teaching to formulate my teacher’s guide. By outsourcing this project, it has freed me to up to work on
new manuscripts, marketing, and client work.
To learn more about my writing career or to order
an autographed copy of The Golden Pathway
visit, www.donnamcdine.com. Gift
with purchase: The Golden Pathway
Educator’s Guide.
~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~
Best wishes,
Donna M. McDine
Award-winning Children's Author The Golden Pathway ~ August 2010 ~ Guardian Angel Publishing, Inc.
~ Literary Classics Silver Award and Seal of Approval Recipient and Dan Poynter's Global e-Book Awards Finalist
I'm delighted you have stopped by to help me and my fellow Guardian Angel Publishing authors to celebrate Children's Book Week. Today, I'd like to share with you interviews with myself and illustrator, K.C. Snider conducted by Homeschool Specialist, Amy O'Quinn:
Interview with Award-winning children's author Donna McDine:
Donna McDine is an award-winning children's author, Honorable
Mention in the 77th and two Honorable Mentions in the 78th Annual Writer’s Digest Writing Competitions, Literary
Classics Silver Award & Seal of Approval Recipient Picture Book Early Reader, Global eBook Awards
Finalist Children’s
Picture Book Fiction, and Preditors & Editors Readers Poll
2010 Top Ten Children’s Books ~ The Golden Pathway.
Her stories, articles, and
book reviews have been published in over 100 print and online publications. Her
interest in American History resulted in writing and publishing The Golden Pathway. Donna has three more
books under contract with Guardian Angel Publishing, Hockey Agony,Powder Monkey, and A Sandy Grave. She writes, moms and is
the Editor-in-Chief for Guardian Angel Kids, Publicist for the Working Writer’s
Club, and owner of Author PR Services from her home in the historical hamlet
Tappan, NY. McDine is a member of the SCBWI. Visit www.donnamcdine.com.
How did you come up with the
idea to write a book about a young boy who helps a slave escape?
I have always had a fascination for
American History and living in the historical hamlet of Tappan, New York is a
constant reminder of the rich history of our country. And when the opportunity
arose at the end of the Institute of Children’s Literature Writing for Children
and Teenagers course to create an outline for a book idea I naturally
gravitated towards the Underground Railroad.
How much research was
involved and how long did it take to write the book?
I
initially visited my local library and researched both children’s and adult
books on the Underground Railroad. The wealth of information was endless, but
once I focused on the central character being the son of a slave owner the
story flowed. From start to finish after research it took about a year to edit
and fine tune the manuscript to feel confident enough to submit to the Writer’s
Digest Writing Competition. After placing 12th in the
Children’s/Young Adult category I then met Lynda Burch of Guardian Angel
Publishing and submitted. After several more edits and expansion of the story,
Ms. Burch offered me my first children’s book contract, adding about another
two years to the process. It may seem like a long time, but it’s all worth it.
How did you become a
children's author?
After
working for Fortune 500 companies for many years I came across the Institute of
Children’s Literature ad and I was immediately intrigued. I eagerly completed
their aptitude test and mailed it off. After a month or so I received my
acceptance into their “Writing to Children and Teenagers” course and haven’t
looked back since. Even though I still hold a virtual assistant position to
help pay the bills my true place is as a children’s author.
What advice do you have for
young aspiring authors?
Just like taking up an instrument or sport - practice,
practice and practice some more is essential in honing your writing skills.
Participate in writer’s workshops in the genre you are interested in is a key
component in developing your unique voice. Many times people think writing for
children is a snap, when it is the complete opposite. Children are quite
intuitive and know when you are preaching or speaking down to them.
Studying the market and what publishers want is imperative. If
your goal is to write for children’s magazines, taking the time out to read
back issues will provide you with insights on the direction of a particular
magazine. For children’s book publishers, review their catalogues for what they
are currently publishing. You may just find a niche that needs to be filled.
And whether you are submitting to children’s magazines or children’s book
publishers reading their submission guidelines is imperative. I cannot stress
enough how important it is to follow the specific guidelines to the “letter.”
Even if you go over the word count by a few words it can mean instant
rejection.
Never be afraid to ask questions. We all have something to learn
each and every day and you’ll be surprised how many people have the same
question as you.
Happy writing to you all and let your voice soar.
Interview with illustrator, K.C. Snider:
K.C. Snider, a prominent Oregon
artist, has branched out into a variety of styles and subjects. Her collection
of oil paintings, lithographs, and pencil drawings include the All-American
Cowboy and Cowgirl and their historical lifestyles with magnificent wolves,
buffalo herds, eagles and birds of prey along with horses and domestic animals.
Her artwork has won numerous awards including the Snaffle Bit Award and the
Pioneer Award.
Snider lives in the high desert with
majestic views of the Cascade Mountains' snow capped peaks. K.C. also
illustrates children's books: Alleycat; The Christmas Angel; Preston, the
Not-So-Perfect Pig; One Family's Christmas; Cartwheel Annie; The Magic Violin;
Does Heaven Get Mail?; Andy & The Albino Horse Series; Baby Jesus is
Missing' Katydidn't; A Short Tale About a Long Tail; Monster Maddie; RV Mouse
& Ruthie and the Hippo's Fat Behind.
A three piece triptych from the
second book in the Andy & the Albino Horse Series won 1st Place in The
Western Art Roundup 2008 and another Andy story triptych won 2nd Place in The
Western Art Roundup 2009.
How did you become
artist/illustrator?
I attended commercial art school and graduated as a
commercial artist in the late 1970’s. I have been working for Guardian
Angel Publishing for about 5 years, now.
What inspires you as an artist?
Everything around me! Everything around us is art.
Tell us about your experience
illustrating The Golden Pathway, and how closely did you work with Donna on the
project?
I worked very closely with Donna in researching for
historical accuracy. A lot of email flew back and forth between us.
What advice do you have for young,
aspiring illustrators?
Draw a lot and learn as many styles as you possibly
can. Success is in being versatile and being able to draw anything from
realism to cartoon.
~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~
Best wishes,
Donna M. McDine
Award-winning Children's Author The Golden Pathway ~ August 2010 ~ Guardian Angel Publishing, Inc.
~ Literary Classics Silver Award and Seal of Approval Recipient and Dan Poynter's Global e-Book Awards Finalist
Although technology is a wonderful learning tool, it’s important to teach our children the importance of getting up and outside to enjoy the boundless adventures of sports and physical activity. Not only is it good for the body to stretch your muscles and participate in physical activity it does wonders for the brain and soul of one’s body by releasing endorphins.
Join us at Guardian Angel Kids Ezine October 2011 issue and get you and your children grooving through physical action by becoming inspired by this month’s poetry, stories, activities, and articles at http://www.guardian-angel-kids.com/.
Cartwheel Annie Flipping Book by Marilee Crowe and illustrated by K.C. Snider – Annie likes being upside down. When the neighborhood children see her cart wheeling down the sidewalk on the way to school, they begin to tease her. That embarrasses her siblings. It seems everyone is tired of her gymnastics, until the circus comes to town, and Annie becomes the star of the show.
Whispering Wally, art and story by Kevin Collier - Watch a special video of Wally the Whale and his treasure hunt, keeping active swimming.
CHILDREN’S POETRY, SHORT STORIES, AND ARTICLES:
“The Name of the Game,” by Ellen Javernick – clever poetry that takes you for a whimsical ride through sports.
“Once Upon Home Plate,” Katie – 5th grader – self confidence soars at the awe inspiring homerun.
“The Magic Bat,” by Marcia Faber and illustrated by Samantha Bell – imagination and fantasy takes you on a delightful outcome of a special bat.
“Fall Freeze,” by Erin K. Schonauer and Jamie C. Schonauer and illustrated by Kathleen Bullock – two sports plus one party equals an icy situation. Can a figure skater and a hockey player learn to balance their differences or are they bound to collide?
“Turtle and Rabbit Relay,” by Karen Robuck – Does the turtle always win the race? In the familiar fable he does, but what about in real life?
“Ways to Use Activities and Games to Teach Vocabulary,” by Dorit Sasson – Engage your students in games of vocabulary and have fun along the way. FEATURED DRAWING, GAMES & ACTIVITIES:
Draw yourself being good with Painting Board – PAINT page
Featured Games from Books - GAME page
Please feel free to drop Editor-in-Chief, Donna McDine an email at submissions@guardian-angel-kids.com and let them know what you think of Guardian Angel Kids and what you'd like to see in the future. They aim to please!
We look forward to your visit. Thank you for your time and interest.
~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~
Best wishes,
Donna M. McDine
Award-winning Children's Author The Golden Pathway ~ August 2010 ~ Guardian Angel Publishing, Inc. http://guardianangelpublishing.com/pathway.htm
Time goes by ever so quickly and the growth of an author's career may seem a long time between publications, but with talent and perservance the changes do occur. Join me in welcoming children's author, Dixie Phillips as she chats about her latest children's picture book, Stilts the Stork and true inspirational events from her life.
DMc: Congratulations on your latest children's book release, Stilts the Stork. I had the privilege of watching illustrator K.C. Snider demonstrate her artistic talents in St. Louis at the Children's Museum in the Fall of 2010 and I was immediately mesmerized by Stilts! Please share with our readers the premises of Stilts the Stork and how you developed this engaging story.
DP: One morning I was reading an article in the newspaper about a stork that built a nest near a golf course. She discovered a golf ball and thought it was an egg. All day the story danced around in my head. I thought it was such a unique tale and my creative juices started flowing. I sat down and wrote a silly poem about a stork named Stilts and her obsession with becoming a mother. She gathers a family of “eggs” and turns the whole golf course upside down. It’s a “tickle your funny bone” story and written in rhyme. Stilts is very “ditzy.” (not to be confused with Dixie) **grin**
DMc: What was the collaboration process like with Ms. Snider?
DP: K.C. is delightful to work with. This is our second book together. She also illustrated my Christmas story— Baby Jesus is Missing. We always keep in contact by phone or e-mail when we’re working on a project. I just can’t sing K.C.’s praises enough. Her illustrations made my story come to life. When I saw the first pictures she created, I was blown away. They were just perfect. She captured every inch of my text and then some.
I remember one time K.C. and I were talking about how we envisioned Stilts and one of us mentioned Stilts should be wearing high heels. K.C. put her magic paintbrush to work and created a masterpiece. I laughed out loud the first time I saw Stilts wearing high heels and sunglasses.
DMc: Please share with us your background and how you became a children's book author.
DP: My story should inspire others who dream of one day becoming an author, but don’t know how their dream is going to come true.
My husband is a minister and I began writing dramas for the children of our congregation. Someone suggested I submit my dramas to a couple publishers. I was elated when I received a letter stating they wanted to purchase my plays.
My writing started growing in different directions. I started selling articles I had written to Sunday school papers, Christian magazines, and anthologies. Before too long I was ghostwriting books, while continuing Work for Hire assignments.
One day a troubled young girl came into my office and told me she had been “born wrong.” The courts had taken her away from her parents and she was placed with her grandparents. Even though my heart broke for her, my words didn’t seem to get through. She was defeated and convinced she would end up making the same mistakes her parents had. After our visit I sat down and tried to think of how I could help her. Inspiration struck and I wrote Stubby’s Destiny –an inspirational story about a defeated donkey who thought he was born wrong. He wished he was a stallion and could carry kings on his back. Things got worse when someone tied a rope around his neck, but moments later he was chosen to carry the King of Kings on his back—his divine destiny!
Months later, I was surfing the web, I stumbled across Guardian Angel Publishing. I submitted Stubby’s Destiny. Later, I received an e-mail from Lynda Burch from GAP accepting it for publication. GAP has given me the title children’s author.
DMc: What is your driving force in developing such heartwarming characters?
DP: I grew up with two precious grandmothers who invested in my life. They always had little quotes and sayings to help me understand their point of view. They were living examples of the truth tucked in this motto: You’ve got to stand for something or you’ll fall for anything. Both of my grandmothers are gone now, but their influence continues still today.
My maternal grandmother lived in a poor neighborhood called Oak Park. Any of the property in this poverty-stricken location was considered of little value, because the lowlands caused frequent flooding. Many, who lived on high ground, considered Oak Park to be a thorn in the side of their fair city, but this attitude didn’t faze Grandma. She had a heart oozing with God’s love and she was determined to help the neglected and forgotten children of Oak Park. Her home became a soup kitchen, barber shop, safe house, and homeless shelter. If anyone from her neighborhood had a problem, they knew they could count on Grandma. She housed frighten children, battered wives, and after many years of listening to various problems over a hot cup of coffee and a slice of her homemade pie, Grandma became a seasoned counselor. Most people understood her mission, but there were some folks who were prejudice against her simply because of where she lived. I can remember her saying, “It’s not where you live, but how you live that matters most.”
Grandma’s love for people continues to be a driving force in my writing. I want my life to count for something of eternal value. I hope my books plant a seed of hope in the heart of a hopeless child and transplant a smile on the face of a hurting child.
Grandma always sang, “If I can help somebody as I pass along, if I can cheer somebody with a word or a song, if I can show somebody that is traveling wrong. Then my living shall not be in vain.”
It is very exciting to think the seeds of influence from my books will live longer than I do and produce a harvest of wisdom and help ignite a vibrant faith in the heart of child, which will change a generation and time my eyes may never see.
DMc: How can our readers learn more about your illustrious career?
Dixie, beyond the scope of your writing, you’ve provided such a heartwarming insight into your personal life and experiences. Thank you for sharing.
~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~
Best wishes,
Donna M. McDine
Award-winning Children's Author The Golden Pathway ~ August 2010 ~ Guardian Angel Publishing, Inc. http://guardianangelpublishing.com/pathway.htm
For Immediate Release
Guardian Angel Kids Ezine February 2011 Issue Now Available
February 2011 is certainly coming in like a lion and hopefully spring will arrive sooner rather than later. With so many of us dealing with the frigid winter, now is the perfect time to bunker down and enjoy the February 2011 issue of Guardian Angel Kids Ezine http://www.guardian-angel-kids.com/ with another round of wonderful activities, short stories, poetry, and a parent/teacher article to bring excitement to your days.
Be prepared to spend memorable time as you both explore the monthly features: FEATURED BOOKS: Does Heaven Get Mail Flip Book written by Marilee Crow and illustrated by K.C. Snider My Grandma’s Kitchen Rules Flip Book written by Bill Kirk and illustrated by Marina Movshina CHILDREN POETRY, STORIES, AND ARTICLE:
“Tea with Grandma,” by Carol Zook thrills us with memories of tea time with grandma.
“Grandpa Bud’s Big Blue Truck,” by Allyn M. Stotz takes us on one adventure after another of treasures and practical tools from Grandpa Bud’s good old truck accompanied with a delightful illustration by Julie Hammond.
“The Wheels,” by Gabrielle Prendergast is a time spinning tale of passing traditions to one generation to the next. Samantha Bell’s illustration depicts this heartfelt story beautifully.
“Understanding Learning Styles: What Educators/Parents Need to Know,” by Dorit Sasson brings forth the different learning styles of our young muses. Sasson’s important article is for anyone having the opportunity to teach our young muses, whether it be a teacher, parent, grandparent, librarian, or tutor.
Grab your favorite snack and pull up a chair alongside your child and enjoy the interactive world of Guardian Angel Kids where the delightful stories take you on awe inspiring adventures.
Thank you for your time and interest.
###
Full Media Kit and more are available upon request electronically.
~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~
Best wishes,
Donna M. McDine
Award-winning Children's Author The Golden Pathway ~ August 2010 ~ Guardian Angel Publishing, Inc. http://www.guardianangelpublishing.com/
eBook Price: $5.00
In the world of Mary Wordsmith the talents of weaving stories garner a feeling of acceptance into this special community. For Mary the overwhelming feeling of living in another person’s shadow hinders her ability to master the art of weaving. Feeling like an outcast, Mary’s despair mounts when a simple routine errand goes wrong. Can nothing be easy for Mary?
In her travels she meets a peculiar looking blue little man whom promises to make her most desired wish come true. Desperate, Mary relents and asks, “I wish I could weave a yarn as beautiful as my mother’s.” As time goes by Mary sees no improvement in her storytelling and becomes annoyed with herself for believing the little blue man. However, friends start to notice special trinkets left in Mary’s wake when practicing weaving. When thanked for the beautiful miniatures, Mary is perplexed and says she has no idea what they are talking about. Believing these odd occurrences will make her a further outcast, Mary swears her friends to secrecy. Will her secret stay such for long? Will Mary discover in time that words can be taken literally and her art of weaving an ingenious story may just be beginning?
Find out what becomes of Mary’s storytelling and the trinkets in this compelling story, which will have the reader turning the pages as fast as lightening. Children’s author, Kai Strand expertly weaves together the art of storytelling and holding one’s audience captive into a spellbinding adventure of finding one’s place in the world.
Be sure to visit with Ms. Strand and learn about her masterful writing career at Strands of Thought http://cleanwriter.livejournal.com/.
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Best wishes,
Donna M. McDine
Award-winning Children's Author
The Golden Pathway ~ August 2010 ~ Guardian Angel Publishing, Inc. http://www.guardianangelpublishing.com/
I have spoken often how characters many times take over a writers thoughts and demand for their story to be told. David and Jenkins of The Golden Pathway are those type of characters for me. I shelved their story for quite some time and tried to ignore their cries. They begged and pleaded in my mind, to the point I started dreaming of them. When it came to this, I could no longer ignore them and finally let their story be told and I couldn't be happier.
Come along for this historical fiction story of the Underground Railroad and the unlikely friendship that formed.
When I was bestowed the honor of becoming an “angel” at Guardian Angel Publishing and reached the stage of studying the portfolios of the GAP illustrators I immediately felt a connection to the artistic abilities of K.C. Snider. Not to say it was an easy task since all the illustrators at GAP are quite talented in their own right. Come along on this awe inspiring interview of the prolific works of K.C. Snider.
DMc: K.C., you have quite the accomplished illustrating career. How do you balance your many different projects?
KC: Well, my publicist makes me take a ‘fine arts’ break now and then. We sometimes get inspired to do a particular work to enter into a special show or contest. Usually when I’m working on a book, I work on one at a time. But sometimes two at a time especially if one is particularly complicated and needs a lot of research, doing a fun one interspersed helps to keep my inspiration piqued.
DMc: Are you normally hired by the publishing house or author for your illustrating talents?
KC: Actually, the first book I illustrated was “The Christmas Angel,” for my good friend, Mary Jean Kelso. She had written this story many years ago and couldn’t get it published so she thought that if it was illustrated, it might have a better chance at publication. Unbeknownst to me, she sent it to Lynda Burch at Guardian Angel Publishing who did accept it. I was still busy doing my Western fine arts and hadn’t really thought about pursuing more illustration jobs, but Lynda liked my work and approached me to illustrate Mayra Calvani’s “The Magic Violin.” I was thrilled to have another project for GAP. From there, it has just snowballed with GAP. I do not accept any other projects at this time except from GAP.
DMc: Please share with us your break through moment of your career.
KC: Keep in mind that I’ve had a long career in fine arts prior to illustration. So I would say my biggest break through moment involves my fine art. I was in my first large juried show in Aspen, Colorado when I sold my first $1000 original painting. I had been doing small local shows up until then. Then I started doing lithographs and they sold for as much as my originals did in the beginning.
DMc: Do you conduct school visits? If yes, how is a typical visit structured?
KC: Yes, I do. Here in Redmond, the fourth grade students write and illustrate a book as part of their regular curriculum. As I got known as an illustrator, I was asked to give demonstrations to various classes. My publicist assists me. We use the flip books and I bring samples of the materials I work with. I show them how I work and then they ask lots and lots of questions. One of the students we spoke with last year won the Angel to Angel writing contest with GAP.
DMc: Do you have a favorite medium or style?
KC: I don’t have a favorite medium for my fine arts, but the illustrations are in gouache with some ink. Gouache is an opaque watercolor. My style is generally realism, but I also do cartooning.
DMc: Please name a couple of your favorite children’s illustrators. What intrigues you about them?
KC: No really ‘famous’ children’s illustrators come to mind, but I like Kit Grady, Samantha Bell and Kevin Collier, along with the other GAP artists. Kit’s work is really cute, Samantha’s is quite realistic and Kevin’s is nicely cartoonish.
My mentor for illustrating was Norman Rockwell, my all-time favorite.
DMc: How long does it take for you to illustrate a book?
KC: Generally, a month depending on have often my dog, Pooper Jack, interrupts me. Mayra Calvani’s Frederico, the Mouse Violinst, took two months. I now have 15 books in publication with GAP, six pending publication and contracts signed for 11 more. I’m quite proud of my accomplishments with GAP.
DMc: A signature request I like to ask every author, illustrator, editor, etc., I interview is for the individual to share with us a tidbit from their lives that the reader will find either humorous or surprising. K.C., can you please share one with us?
KC: Probably one of the most memorable events in my art career was the day that my husband, Fred, put a knife through one of my canvases that I had just sold! Fred was tying the painting to an easel so that it would not blow over. He had a knife to cut the string and the knife slipped. He was absolutely mortified and devastated. So I lost a $2000 sale. The gallery I was with was not happy. But Fred has been so supportive of me that I really can’t complain. He does all my framing, helps pack and unpack at shows and does so much that I couldn’t do it without him.
The month of June is sure to be one of creative inspiration through several interviews of children’s authors, illustrators, and editors. Grab yourself a cool refreshment and Cruise on over to http://www.donna-mcdine.blogspot.com/ to jump into the creative minds of:
Monday, June 7th – Children’s author: J. Aday Kennedy
Wednesday, June 9th - Children's author: Beth Reinke
Friday, June 11th – Illustrator interview: K.C. Snider
Monday, June 21st - Children's author: Danika Dinsmore
Thursday, June 24th - Children's author: Dixie Phillips
The month of June is sure to be one of creative inspiration through several interviews of children’s authors, illustrators, and editors. Grab yourself a cool refreshment and Cruise on over to http://www.donna-mcdine.blogspot.com/ to jump into the creative minds of:
Tuesday, June 1st – Children’s author interview: Bill Kirk
Friday, June 4th – Children’s author, illustrator, and editor interview: Nancy Lepri
Saturday, June 5th – Book Review: Klutzy Kantor by J. Aday Kennedy
Sunday, June 6th – Children’s author: J. Aday Kennedy
Monday, June 7th – Illustrator interview: K.C. Snider
