Tuesday, May 31, 2011

Writers on the Move - June Tours


Learn all about the prolific members of Writers on the Move from each of their unique June blog stops.
1st Karen Cioffi Heather Paye Karen Cioffi is featuring Heather Paye

2nd Kathy Stemke Jenny Wylie Kathy Stemke is featuring Jenny Wylie

3rd Margaret Fieland Debra Eckerling Margaret Fieland is featuring Debra Eckerling

4th Carolyn Howard-Johnson Doe Dadich Carolyn Howard-Johnson is featuring Joe Dadich

5th Stephen Tremp Elysabeth Eldering Stephen Tremp is featuring Elysabeth Eldering

6th Debra Eckerling Robert Medak Debra Eckerling is featuring Robert Medak

7th Martha Swirzinski Maggie Ball Martha Swirzinski is featuring Maggie Ball

8th Heidi Thomas Donna McDine Heidi Thomas is featuring Donna McDine

9th Dallas Woodburn Jennifer Gladen Dallas Woodburn is featuring Jennifer Gladen

10th Maggie Ball Martha Swirzinski Maggie Ball is featuring Martha Swirzinski

11th Kevin McNamee Mari Taylor Kevin McNamee is featuring Mari Taylor

12th Elysabeth Eldering Kevin McNamee Elysabeth Eldering is featuring Kevin McNamee

13th Marietta Taylor Margaret Fieland Marietta Taylor is featuring Margaret Fieland

14th Robert Medak Kathy Stemke Robert Medak is featuring Kathy Stemke

15th Donna McDine Karen Cioffi Donna McDine is featuring Karen Cioffi

16th Shelby Patrick Carolyn Howard-Johnson Shelby Patrick is featuring Carolyn Howard-Johnson

17th Jennifer Gladen Shelby Patrick Jennifer Gladen is featuring Shelby Patrick

18th Jennifer Wylie Dallas Woodburn Jennifer Wylie is featuring Dallas Woodburn

19th Joe Dadich Heidi Thomas Joe Dadich is featuring Heidi Thomas

20th Heather Paye Stephen Tremp Heather Paye is featuring Stephen Tremp

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

Sunday, May 29, 2011

Happy Memorial Day - Special Forces Prayer



Special Forces Prayer


Almighty God Who art the Author of Liberty and the Champion of the oppressed hear our prayer. We the men of Special Forces, acknowledge our dependence upon Thee in the preservation of human freedom.

Go with us as we seek to defend the defenseless and to free the enslaved. May we ever remember that our nation, whose oath "in God We Trust," expects that we shall requit ourselves with honor, that we may never bring shame upon our faith, our families, or our fellow men.
Grant us wisdom from Thy mind, courage from Thine heart, and protection by Thine hand. It is for Thee that we do battle, and to thee belongs the victor's crown. For Thine is the kingdom, and the power and glory forever. Amen!



~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~
Best wishes,
Donna M. McDine
Award-winning Children's Author
The Golden Pathway ~ August 2010 ~ Guardian Angel Publishing, Inc.
http://guardianangelpublishing.com/pathway.htm

Wednesday, May 25, 2011

Blog Followers - Do You Get Excited with Every New Follower?


The tools available for blogging are ever changing with the technological world we live in. First your blog needs to have focus to keep people interested. If you are all over the map with topics from current events, the literary world, sports, etc., readers will tend not to stop by for a spell. Very much like when you walk into a speciality store and it's jammed with product your eyes and mind don't know where to begin and you depart quickly.

To know you have set up a need and interest for visitors, setting up an option to "follow" and/or "subscribe to your feed" is a terrific way to know there are people out there visiting you. However, comments alone do not provide an accurate gauge of visitors, so be sure to add stats to your blog so that you have an accurate idea of visitors.

Once people find you and they decide to follow you, do you get excited? I know I do! I've never actively seeked followers, it just has seemed to evolve over time. Now that I'm involved with the social network Mommy Bloggers Club, I amd meeting and getting to know mom's from around the globe. I'm in awe of the women involved, many have hundreds to thousands of followers. Amazing isn't it!

Do you actively seek followers? If so, how do you go about it?

If you are not a "follower" or "subscriber" yet, become one and I'll be thrilled to "follow" and "subscribe" back to you. Make sure to leave your blog URL.

Looking forward to your visit and feedback.

Have a terrific day and happy blogging!

~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~
Best wishes,
Donna M. McDine
Award-winning Children's Author
The Golden Pathway ~ August 2010 ~ Guardian Angel Publishing, Inc.
http://guardianangelpublishing.com/pathway.htm

Monday, May 23, 2011

The Golden Pathway Sponsors Live Chat at Intentional Conscious Parenting - Tues, May 24 at 9 pm EST


Hello everyone, here's our latest live chat reminder. We look forward to talking to you tomorrow night! So much fun!


Live chat with Alexandra Folz - Tuesday 5/24 9 PM Eastern, 8 Central, 7 Mountain, 6 Pacific at Intentional Conscious Parenting

Mark your calendars! Tell your friends. Spread the word around.

Date: Tuesday, May 24th

Author: Alexandra Folz

Book: Indigo's Bracelet

Topics: We will be talking with Alexandra about her beautiful book Indigo's Bracelet, the publishing process, how she picked such a wonderful character Indigo to demonstrate to children, tweens, teens and adults how through life's experience's Indigo learned about her spiritual tools, self-awareness, self-acceptance, self-esteem, her love for nature and the environment. Alexandra's publishing experience with Balboa Press and more.

Click here to join live chat.

CHAT WILL BECOME LIVE ON THE NIGHT OF THE CHAT AT 9 PM Eastern, 8 Central, 7 Mountain, 6 Pacific.

Sponsors/prizes:

Grace from Blessedelements will be donating a gorgeous handmade choker.

Donna will be donating one of her wonderful children's book, The Golden Pathway










Win an autographed copy of Indigo's Bracelet By: Alexandra Folz

I Think I Am! Teaching kids the power of affirmations, children's picture book By: Louise Hay

We look forward to connecting with you tomorrow night. Join in on the fun for a chance to win prizes. Have fun, make new friends, connect with old friends, help support authors that support the inner light of the children and the conscious parenting movement. Even if you have not read the guest authors book that's OK.

Join in to learn more about Alexandra's book for a chance to win an autographed copy.

Talk to you soon, Carol and Stacy.

**If you have any problems joining live chat or any questions. Feel free to email Carol at:
intunedparenting@gmail.com

~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~
Best wishes,
Donna M. McDine
Award-winning Children's Author
The Golden Pathway ~ August 2010 ~ Guardian Angel Publishing, Inc.
http://guardianangelpublishing.com/pathway.htm

Wednesday, May 18, 2011

The Writer’s Life with Author, Tina M. Games

I journal on a daily basis and feel it’s an important way to set the tone for my day and I’m pleased to welcome you to Day two of Tina M. Games’ 6-day NWFCC April Author Showcase tour. Come along as Ms. Games’ shares her personal journey into the world of journaling.


Hi, I'm Tina M. Games, author of Journaling by the Moonlight: A Mother's Path to Self-Discovery.

I'm often asked, "What was the catalyst for writing your book?"



My book evolved out of a personal story. Shortly after the birth of my first child, and after making some fairly significant life changes at the same time, I fell into depression - a place that felt so foreign to me, a place where I felt like I had fallen into a black hole with no way out. It was during this time, a period that spanned over two years that I had disconnected from everything that made me happy. Because my son suffered from chronic illnesses related to serious colds and severe ear infections, I made a very difficult choice to give up a successful career in order to care for my son full-time. I hadn't realized until this experience how much of my identity was tied into my career. I really enjoyed working. And without that opportunity in my life, I felt very lost and very unhappy.

It was also during this time that I fell back on a great passion of mine - journal writing. As a mom of a baby who did not have a normal sleep schedule, I found myself exhausted and emotional much of the time. So night after night, after I'd get my son settled and after my husband went to bed, I'd grab my journal and retreat to my favorite chair - beside a big bay window where I caught a glimpse of the moon. It was the moon that taught me the meaning of transition. I'd watch this beautiful lunar goddess, night after night, move in and out of her various phases. And before long, I began to connect her phases with my own emotional tides.

I noticed that the moon always began in darkness and gradually, she'd move into full light - and cycle back around again. And I noticed the contrast between dark and light - the darkness of the night sky against the beautiful full moon light. I started connecting to this - as if I was being divinely guided through my own transitions of dark and light. I began to notice the ebbs and flows of my emotions. There were good days and bad days.

And then one day, two years later, I had an ah-ha. After several conversations with my own mother and other mothers whom I had encountered along the way, I began to wonder, "Are there other moms out there who may be having a similar experience?"

I decided to create two focus groups of mothers where we could have honest discussions about motherhood, careers, and life purpose - and how they all fit together. These dialogues eventually led to a series of articles and then to the creation of my coaching practice - where I could work with moms on a deeper level.

This is when I decided to write my book, Journaling by the Moonlight: A Mother's Path to Self-Discovery. I wanted mothers to realize that every human transition begins in darkness and gradually moves into light, where we get a glimpse of what is possible. And then we retreat, to ponder the many ways we can manifest these possibilities into reality. This requires deep work, where we step into our own truth and into our own power - and where we can emerge in the most authentic way possible. This is what I call the Blue Moon phase - when we finally realize that we are here on this Earth to be WHO we are, to put our personal thumbprint on the world in the most truthful, most authentic, most unique way possible. Each one of us are individuals being divinely guided on our own purposeful path.

For me, as a writer, I rely quite a bit on journal writing. It's how I map out my thoughts, my ideas - and where I want to take them, in a way that might benefit a potential reader. As a nonfiction writer, writing primarily in the self-help and personal transformation genres, I weave in lots of journaling prompts for my readers. I want them to have "an experience" with me - one that benefits them in a healing, organic way. So whether it's a book, a workbook or a series of articles, I bring in my love of journal writing and I introduce it in the work I create.

When I sit down to write, I begin first with my journal. I ask myself, "What is my purpose for this piece of writing? How will my reader gain from this?" - and then I begin to map out a plan. Sometimes it's an outline. Sometimes it's a cluster of circles - with my main idea being in the center circle and my points being in little circles (drawn out from the main circle via a line). Once I get my plan worked out, I begin to write. Then I walk away from my writing for a few hours (sometimes a day) to let the thoughts simmer. And when I return, with a fresh mind, I begin the editing/revision process - until I have a finished piece (which could be an article or a chapter).

In my book, Journaling by the Moonlight: A Mother's Path to Self-Discovery, I offer a series of journal writing prompts (called Moonlight Musings) that follow a self-exploration process. Each of these prompts are designed to take a mother to a deeper place within her being - and can take anywhere from five minutes to 30 minutes, depending on how connected a mom might be with a particular question. I've also designed an accompanying deck of 54 journaling prompt cards. Each card offers a prompt that guides moms on an inner journey to discover more about herself and how to honor her gifts in our external world.

One can easily see how journal writing plays a key role in my writing life.
Thanks for allowing me to connect with you here today!




Follow Day 3 of Tina's tour tomorrow at http://www.margotfinke.blogspot.com/.  

~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~
Best wishes,
Donna M. McDine
Award-winning Children's Author
The Golden Pathway ~ August 2010 ~ Guardian Angel Publishing, Inc.
http://guardianangelpublishing.com/pathway.htm

Tuesday, May 17, 2011

The Writer’s Life with Award-Winning Children’s Author, Renee Hand


I am pleased to introduce award-winning children’s author, Renee Hand as she discusses the ever changing schedule of an author.


Every morning I wake up early and start my day on the computer. For at least a few hours, while my children are sleeping, I am able to get a lot accomplished in my writing. I spend time creating my story, reading it, or revising it in some way. I spend time researching ideas that I have. I am always looking for interesting information I can incorporate into my stories. After that, my days are filled with homeschooling my children and taking care of anything else that needs to get done. Reading books to review, book promotion, work, school visits, and so on…Every day is different for me. Depending on how busy I am depends on how much I am able to write that day. Throughout the day I will check e-mails, work with my children on their writing, will take a half hour or so to work a little bit more on my writing. If I have time at night, I will also work on revising my work and editing it, reading it aloud and so on, but for the most part, my mornings are my time to create and the only time that I am not going half out of my mind.




Follow Day 3 of Renee's tour tomorrow at http://www.margotfinke.blogspot.com/.   


~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~
Best wishes,
Donna M. McDine
Award-winning Children's Author
The Golden Pathway ~ August 2010 ~ Guardian Angel Publishing, Inc.
http://guardianangelpublishing.com/pathway.htm

Monday, May 16, 2011

Children’s Author, Renee Hand’s 6-day Author Showcase hosted by the NWFCC kicks off Monday, May 16

M E D I A  R E L E A S E


CONTACT: Suzanne Lieurance

Email: suzannelieurance@hotmail.com

Website: http://writingforchildrencenter.com/

Children’s Author, Renee Hand’s 6-day Author Showcase hosted by the NWFCC kicks off Monday, May 16

Award-winning children’s author, Renee Hand is being showcased the entire month of May at the National Writing for Children Center. Part of this showcase includes a 6-day virtual book tour. Join Suzanne Lieurance, founder and director of the National Writing for Children Center, and the virtual specialist tour hosts as they welcome Renee for her virtual book tour that starts Monday, May 16.

Renee Hand writes because it is a passion in her heart. She is a homeschool parent and likes to create books that educate and inspire the children of today. She was born in Michigan and still lives there with her husband and two children. She has a degree in Zoology with a minor in Chemistry. Renee is the author of the amazing mystery series known as the Crypto-Capers Series that encourages children to read by incorporating several topics of interest. The reader participates into the story by solving cryptograms and puzzles to solve the case. She is also the author of the Joe-Joe Nut and Biscuit Bill Series, which focuses on animal detectives. This series is a great way to teach children about animals in a fun and interesting way that captures the reader's attention and yet fills them with knowledge they will be learning about in school.

All books are great to use in a classroom setting to supplement various topics or to just enjoy. Renee is an award-winning author, receiving awards such as a Best Book Award, a National Literary Award and a Preferred Choice award for her children's series and adult books. She has just recently won a Seal of Excellence award in Storytelling for her Joe-Joe Nut and Biscuit Bill Series. She has been writing for over twenty years and has nine books published. When she is not spending time with her family or participating in author events, she is coaching and playing tennis, as well as doing research for her books and many other things that keep her busy. Not quite sure what a cryptogram is and want to learn more? Visit the author's website at www.reneeahand.com to learn about cryptograms and how to solve the ones that are in the books.

Discover the writing world of Ms. Hand through her virtual book tour:

Monday, May 16

“Meet the Author”

Host: Suzanne Lieurance – http://www.suzannelieurance.com/

Tuesday, May 17

“The Writer’s Life”

Host: Donna M. McDine – http://www.donna-mcdine.blogspot.com/

Wednesday, May 18

“Tradebook Tips for Teachers”

Host: Margot Finke – http://www.margotfinke.blogspot.com/ 
Thursday, May 19

“Writing Tips”

Host: Mayra Calvani – http://www.mayrassecretbookcase.com/ 

Friday, May 20


“On the Go”

Host: Beverly Stowe McClure – http://www.beverlystowemcclure.blogspot.com/ 
Saturday, May 21

“Become a Facebook Fan” Host: Dorit Sasson – www.doritsasson.com/?cat=1 

Thank you for your interest, we look forward to your visit.

Authors interested in being showcased at the National Writing for Children Center can download an application http://www.writingforchildrencenter.com/ or email Donna McDine for more information at info@writingforchildrencenter.com.  

###
~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~
Best wishes,
Donna M. McDine
Award-winning Children's Author
The Golden Pathway ~ August 2010 ~ Guardian Angel Publishing, Inc.
http://guardianangelpublishing.com/pathway.htm

Wednesday, May 11, 2011

Children's author, Donna J. Shepherd visits Write What Inspires You!

May 2011 is already in full swing and the world of spring is blooming. Today, I would like to share with you a recent interview I had the pleasure of conducting with children's author, singer, and speaker, Donna J. Shepherd. I first met Donna online through Guardian Angel Publishing and then the delightful opportunity of meeting in person in St. Louis, MO back in the fall of 2010. Donna's immediate warmth pulled me in and I immediately felt connected to her, and not just because we have the same first name. Stay for a spell and get to know Donna Shepherd and her many talents.

DMc: You have quite the interesting professional background (not to say you aren't interesting personally, I know for a fact you are...since I had the wonderful opportunity of meeting you in person in St. Louis last Fall.) of writer, speaker, and singer. How do you balance all these talents so effectively?



DS: It was a pleasure meeting you, too! I have been singing for many (many!) years. I started in my teens when I traveled with a gospel quartet. Now I play the piano and sing in the church where my husband and I are pastors. The writing is a newer endeavor beginning with an article I submitted in 2003. I started writing for children in 2004. I found the 4-year old inside!

My first speaking engagements were for women's conferences and church services. After I began writing, I started speaking at meetings and conferences for writers. I founded a local group for writers and Greater Harvest Workshops for writers and speakers.

So, all three - writing, speaking, and singing, dovetail. When I speak, I usually ask if I may share a song first. It actually relaxes me to sing first.

DMc: You recently signed another book contract with Guardian Angel Publishing, congratulations! Please share with us the synopsis and what inspired you to pen your latest children's book.


DS: Thank you for the congrats. It's always a thrill to sign a contract. This latest picture book is about an ant that's the lead architect for her colony and decides to quit her job. The underlying theme is that each of us (even ants!) has unique talents and as we work together, we can accomplish great things.

DMc: For those visitors that are not familiar with your children's books, please share with us each title and one sentence describing each.


DS: I'm delighted to! Starting with the newest….


Where is Salami? - Beth's little brother has so many pets, he's lost track of a few! Children will delight in finding the animals in the vibrant illustrations by Jack Foster and discovering hidden pictures on every page.

Bradybug - In a book that's both fact-filled and fun, a ladybug compares the words used to describe male and female animals.

Sully's Topsy Tale - The final picture book in the Topsy Tales trilogy features a jazz loving, bebopping, singing snake suffering with laryngitis. What's an independent snake that only sings solos to do? Endorsed by licensed and certified speech-language pathologist Victoria Ryan, MS/CCC-SLP, Sully's Topsy Tale.

Poodle and Doodle - Angel, a twelve-pound prissy poodle, is none too happy when Leah brings home Scruffy, a seventy-five pound clumsy Labradoodle. Why ever would Leah want another pet when she had the perfect dog already?

Dotty's Topsy Tale - Dotty's Topsy Tale features Dotty, a pink hippo that doesn't quite fit in. With help from her best friend, Chizzy, she finds she can be happy with herself no matter what her color.

Chizzy's Topsy Tale - In Chizzy's Topsy Tale, whimsical rhymes speed Chizzy and Dotty into the jungle on a whirlwind search for tempting fruit.

No More Gunk! - In No More Gunk!, short, playful rhymes and Kevin Scott Collier's humorous illustrations help children learn in a fun way the importance of proper dental hygiene.

OUCH! Sunburn! - In Ouch! Sunburn!, snappy rhymes, along with the 15 colorful and fun illustrations by Kevin Scott Collier, help children see the need to protect their skin in the sun.

The Lonely Lightning Bug (eBook only) - A lovely little poetic easy reader of one boy's challenge- of keeping a lightning bug or letting it go. Proceeds from the sale of this eBook benefit StarShine Hospice of Cincinnati Children's Hospital Medical Center.

Topsy Turvy Land - Come visit a place of peace and whimsy where green monkeys and singing snakes live. Children will delight in the lyrical rhymes and vibrant illustrations while searching for the hidden hearts.

DMc: When you are on the "speaker circuit" what topics do you address? Where can our readers learn more about your speaking engagements?


DS: I've spoken at MOPS meetings, writers' conferences, and churches. I devoted a page on my website to speaking topics. You can find it here: http://donnajshepherd.com/Speaking.aspx

DMc: Not only are you a singer you provide voiceovers for various media. Please share with our readers your services in this arena.


DS: I set up a home studio and started by providing voiceover for book trailers. I'm now reading audio books. It has been an interesting and fun way to use my voice. I've posted a few samples on a blog:

http://donna-shepherd.blogspot.com/

DMc: Where can our readers learn more about the many facets of your professional life?


DS: I blog about my varied interests. Topsy Turvy Land is my main blog for children with puzzles, coloring pages, games, and updates about my books. Just go to http://www.topsyturvyland.com/. Scroll down to where it says, "I'm a Blogaholic" (lol!) and scroll.

I'd also love for you to check out my Facebook Fan Page. I update it the most with writing tips and fun tidbits about all kinds of things. It's at http://www.facebook.com/donnajshepherd .

Thanks so much for interviewing me, Donna! As you can see, I love to stay busy!


~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~
Best wishes,
Donna M. McDine
Award-winning Children's Author
The Golden Pathway ~ August 2010 ~ Guardian Angel Publishing, Inc.
http://guardianangelpublishing.com/pathway.htm

Monday, May 9, 2011

Congratulations to the Winners for Visiting Write What Inspires You


Our heartfelt congratulations to the winners while visiting Write What Inspires You during Children's Book Week!

Christie Wright Wild of http://www.christiewrightwild.blogspot.com/ has won Nancy Stewart's children's book, One Pelican at a Time.

and the following three visitors have won Margot Finke's short adventure story: "Taconi and Claude's 21st Century Adventure," featuring Margot's beloved characters, Taconi, Ruthie, and Horatio:

Terrie Hope of http://www.terriehope.webs.com/
Susanne Drazic of http://susannedrazic.blogspot.com/
Karen Cioffi of http://karenandrobyn.blogspot.com/

Thank you for visiting and leaving comments for the profiled children's authors, we appreciate 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

Sunday, May 8, 2011

Book Review: Caves, Cannons and Crinolines by Beverly Stowe McClure



Title: Caves, Cannons and Crinolines

Written by: Beverly Stowe McClure

Ages: 12 and up

Publisher: Twilight Times Books

ISBN: 1-60619-112-8

Published: September 2009

Soft cover: 153 pages

Price: $16.95

The year 1863 finds outspoken, 14-year-old, Lizzie Stamford at a crossroads of what her parents believe to be acceptable behavior for a young lady, and secret desire to join the Confederate Army disguised as a boy. Her two brothers, Willie and Joseph willingly joined the Confederacy to defend Vicksburg from the Yankees and Lizzie longs to be part of the glory. Her blind courage brings her into the midst of a battleground at nighttime. Much to her dismay war is not what she believed it to be. The horrific acts of violence overwhelm her and she runs away as quickly as she arrived.
Her emotions and beliefs that all Yankees are evil is put to the test when an unexpected encounter with a Yankee soldier has her doubting her belief system. Will Lizzie come to terms of the ever changing world and circumstances which surround her? And what is to become of her beloved brothers and the city of Vicksburg?

McClure balances the emotions of the Confederate and Yankee characters with such in-depth feeling the reader will find themselves switching sides throughout the perilous journey of Lizzie Stamford and her family, and their quest to reclaim Vicksburg.

To learn more about Beverly Stowe McClure visit: http://beverlystowemcclure.wordpress.com/


~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~
Best wishes,
Donna M. McDine
Award-winning Children's Author
The Golden Pathway ~ August 2010 ~ Guardian Angel Publishing, Inc.
http://guardianangelpublishing.com/pathway.htm

Saturday, May 7, 2011

Book Review: Ruthie and the Hippo's Fat Behind! by Margot Finke




Title: Ruthie and the Hippo’s Fat Behind!

Written by: Margot Finke

Illustrated by: K.C. Snider

Soft cover: 18 pages

Ages: 5-12

Publisher: Guardian Angel Publishing, Inc.

Print ISBN 13: 978-1-61633-059-0

eBook ISBN 13: 978-1-60633-060-6

Published: May 2010

Print Price: $10.95

eBook Price: $5.00

Much like “the elephant in the room” and in this case the hippo’s fat behind, no one wants to acknowledge the sudden change in Ruthie’s behavior and what to do about it. Told in perfect rhyme, Ruthie and the Hippo’s Fat Behind! explores one child’s woes in moving. Once content and happy, Ruthie becomes unbearable to live with after her family moves clear across the state.
Determined not to accept her new home and surroundings, Ruthie embarks on a downward spiral of rude behavior towards all who cross her path, each day worse than the one before. Until the day an unexpected visitor pays Ruthie a visit. Will Ruthie accept this unconditional love or will she continue to self destruct? Find out today and purchase Ruthie and the Hippo’s Fat Behind!
Coupled with a Parent Teacher Guide Ruthie and the Hippo’s Fat Behind! provides the perfect opportunity to get our children and/or student’s into a lively discussion of what change means to them and how they’ve handled it and what they can do to make transition easier in the future.

Become mesmerized by Ruthie and the Hippo’s Fat Behind! in a cool book trailer @: http://mysite.ncnetwork.net/restbcm8/Book%20Trailers.htm#slide

Author: Margot E. Finke http://www.margotfinke.com/

Illustrations: KC Snider http://www.kcsniderart.com/

Snider is a well known fine artist who regularly shows her work in galleries, as well as known for her book illustrations.

Giveaway Contest: Leave a comment for Ms. Finke and you will be automatically entered at a chance to win one of three FREE PDF copy of Margot’s specially written short adventure story:

"Taconi and Claude's 21st Century Adventure," featuring Taconi, Ruthie and Horatio.

Because of a magical Boab Tree, Taconi and Claude find themselves marooned in the 21st Century. Ruthie and Horatio (2 characters from her other books) join forces to help Taconi and his cockatoo find their way back home to where they belong - the Aussie outback of the 1950's.

~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~
Best wishes,
Donna M. McDine
Award-winning Children's Author
The Golden Pathway ~ August 2010 ~ Guardian Angel Publishing, Inc.
http://guardianangelpublishing.com/pathway.htm

Friday, May 6, 2011

Book Review ~ One Pelican at a Time: A Story of the Gulf Oil Spill by Nancy Stewart




Title: One Pelican at a Time: A Story of the Gulf Oil Spill



Written by: Nancy Stewart

Illustrated by: Samantha Bell

Soft cover: 26 pages

Ages: 7-12

Publisher: Guardian Angel Publishing, Inc. / Academic Wings

Print ISBN 13: 978-1-61633-138-2

eBook ISBN 13: 978-1-61633-140-5

Published: February 2011

Print Price: $11.95

eBook Price: $5.00

Compassion and the love for our Earth’s surroundings propel Bella and Britt into action in the wake of the Gulf Oil Spill. Almost immediately dismissed by adults to be of any true assistance in the cleanup efforts because of their young age, the girls continue onward down the beach.

Ignoring the dismissal the girls leap into action when they witness the struggle of one pelican as he fights to break free from the oil infested waters. Are their cries for assistance heard in time and acted upon by those in charge? Or will their one pelican meet an early demise?

Children’s author, Nancy Stewart brings her own love and concern for our natural resources to the forefront in this eye opening and spine tingling story of the ramifications of the Gulf Oil Spill. The author also provides a brief history and listing of resources regarding the Gulf Oil Spill to further spark your interest in protecting our environment.
Samantha Bell’s glorious illustrations depict the story in all its beauty and sorrow, compelling the reader to action and further education in how everyone can make the environment better for all.

Visit with Nancy Stewart and educate yourself today:

Website: http://www.nancystewartbooks.com/
Blog: http://www.nancystewartbooks.blogspot.com/

Inspired by Samantha Bells creative world? Visit: http://www.samantha-bell.com/


Giveaway Contest: Leave a comment on either Nancy's interview or book review and you are automatically entered at a chance to win Nancy's children's book, One Pelican at a Time.



~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~
Best wishes,
Donna M. McDine
Award-winning Children's Author
The Golden Pathway ~ August 2010 ~ Guardian Angel Publishing, Inc.
http://guardianangelpublishing.com/pathway.htm

Thursday, May 5, 2011

Children's Author, Nancy Stewart visits Write What Inspires You

Nancy and I first met in person in the fall of 2010 at the Guardian Angel Publishing author and illustrator gathering and forged an immediate ease and friendship. Her educational background and writing talent creates a perfect blend of what children enjoy the most in books. Join me in welcoming Nancy to Write Inspires You and learn what motivates and inspires Nancy.

DMc: Please share with our readers your professional background and what led you to writing for children.



NS: I began my career as an elementary school teacher. I enjoyed it, and that experience was a great preparation for what was to come. While living in the NYC area, I worked for New Options, Inc., a partner to the American Management Association. Until recently, I was a university professor of education, specializing in teaching Children’s and Young Adult Literature. And there I found my niche. Picture books grabbed me and would not let go! I began writing in earnest about five years ago and have never looked back. It has become a passion with me and now is something akin to breathing.

DMc: What do you feel is the most important message One Pelican at Time?


NS: Two words: Empowering kids. Children so often are told what they do doesn’t really make a difference. We patronize them without even thinking about it. In this book, I wanted the girls to take charge of a small but important occurrence within a larger, catastrophic event. In this way, I hope children who read Pelican will take away two things: “What I do is important” and “What I do can help save the world.”

DMc: Please share with us the synopsis' of your next two books with Guardian Angel Publishing, Bella Saves the Beach and Sea Turtle Summer.


NS: “Bella Saves the Beach” was actually the first book in the series, but when the spill occurred, we changed the emphasis. In the book, the girls begin seeing litter on their beloved beach. What can they do about it? They’re just kids. Not only do they come up with a plan (after several failures), they manage to enlist the whole town in the endeavor! In Sea Turtle Summer, Britt and Bella come upon a turtle laying her eggs in the daylight, something that usually does not happen. After seeing the turtle safely back into the water, they are faced with the dilemma of protecting the nest. As the beach is filled with tourists, volleyball games, sunbathers, etc., how can they do it? All I’m going to say is it has a lovely and surprising ending.

DMc: What was the collaboration process like with illustrator, Samantha Bell? Will she also be the illustrator on your next two books?


NS: Yes, I am delighted that Samantha is the illustrator of the next two books. She was fantastic to work with, and she is so talented. The two girls are wonderfully illustrated. They almost walk off the pages. The work she does with watercolor is gorgeous, and I think she captured the gulf, beaches and marine life beautifully.

DMc: Where can readers learn more about the Gulf Oil Spill?


NS: There are quite a few reliable places. National Geographic has and continues to do a remarkable job on the spill and its aftermath. For children, the Ranger Rick Magazine is a marvelous resource. The New York Times has done an admirable job in monitoring BP during this time. Where can people learn more about your illustrious wring career?

They can find me at my web and blog sites:

http://www.nancystewartbooks.com/
http://www.nancystewartbooks.blogspot.com/


Nancy, thank you for joining me today and providing an opportunity for the visitors to meet you. It's been a pleasure. Be sure to stop back tomorrow, when I post my book review of One Pelican at a Time.

Giveaway Contest: Leave a comment on either Nancy's interview or book review and you are automatically entered at a chance to win Nancy's children's book, One Pelican at a Time.

~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~
Best wishes,
Donna M. McDine
Award-winning Children's Author
The Golden Pathway ~ August 2010 ~ Guardian Angel Publishing, Inc.
http://guardianangelpublishing.com/pathway.htm

Wednesday, May 4, 2011

Children's author, Dixie Phillips Visits Write What Inspires You


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?


DP: They can visit my blog at http://www.writing4littleones.blogspot.com/ or go to our ministry website at http://www.floydslighthouse.com/.  

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

Tuesday, May 3, 2011

Children's Author, Bill Kirk visits Write What Inspires You!

I recently had the opportunity to catch up with children's author, Bill Kirk since our last interview a year ago. A lot has transpired in Bill's career and personal life since then. Bill, congratulations on all your positive happenings...I'm quite impressed.

DMc: Congratulations! You have been quite busy with three books scheduled for publication in 2011 with another two under contract. How are you balancing all your book promotion tasks?



BK: Thanks, Donna. You are so right. Balancing is a good way to put it because it is a real balancing act between tending to the business side of book promotion and marketing and finding time for the creative side of writing. I must admit, I still haven't mastered the business side of things. But I should say right off the bat that the interview opportunity you have given me today is definitely a plus on the “promotion” side. Thanks for having me.
I suppose the approach that works best for someone has to be connected to whatever their goals or objectives are for their writing. It’s hard to tell what works best. But all I know is once a book has been released, the real time consuming work begins—the more time you put into promoting your books, the better the chances of meeting your personal goals and objectives. There are lots of ways for one’s writing to have meaning. So, I would say pick how you want your writing to be used and to have value, then promote it toward those ends.

As it turns out, last month was a good month for both writing and promotion. April is National Poetry Month and I participated in the Writer’s Digest Poem A Day Challenge, which was indeed a challenge. But at month’s end, I had 30 poems—some good and others not—to use as a creative starting point. Also last month I traveled to South Carolina and did book readings in four classes at the school our granddaughters attend. So, on balance, April was a pretty good month for both the business side and the writing side.

DMc: Please share with our readers something about the three books scheduled for 2011 release.


BK: All of my children’s books so far are written in rhyme. I find that format to be very fun to play with—I guess it’s the word play that I find most enjoyable. Maybe it’s my inner child trying to escape.



Likewise, the three releases in 2011 are written in rhyme and will be published by Guardian Angel Publishing as part of my anatomical series of rhyming picture books titled THE SUM OF OUR PARTS. The first two books in the series were previously published in 2009 (“No Bones About It”) and 2010 (“Circulation Celebration”).




The third book in the series is currently in production. “Muscles Make Us Move” about the muscles in the human body. I’d have to say working gastrocnemius and sternocleidomastoid into the verses was a bit of a puzzle but those challenges make the anatomical rhymes fun to write. Later in the year “The Skin We’re In” will be released, followed by a “two-fer” book combining the eyes and the nose (“Once Upon An Eyeball” and “The Nose Knows Roses”).

The production pipeline for the anatomical rhymes is a bit longer than for some of my other books. The reason is that the content includes the rhyming text, factoids about each system, a glossary, word search, word match and sometimes a bonus rhyme. Also, the technical nature of the content both in the verses and in the factoids requires three sources to be sure the information is correct or falls within acceptable factual variation. Only after the content is verified and matched with the illustrations can the book building process begin, followed by the review of the galleys.

I’m hopeful as more books in the series are published, readers will feel they have some choices about which books are of the most interest depending on where they are in their anatomical learning. The series will be ideal for late grade school and middle school students who are beginning their science studies.

DMc: Eugene Ruble is the illustrator on many of your books. Please share with us the collaboration process with Mr. Ruble.


BK: The anatomical rhymes pose an interesting illustration opportunity to stay true to the technical side of anatomy which capturing the interest and imagination of young readers. Being new to Guardian Angel Publishing, I didn’t have a good sense of who might be able to combine both aspects. But fortunately the publisher, Lynda Burch, had someone in mind who would be up to the challenge.

Eugene Ruble has deep background in technical drawing but also knows how to make a technical drawing both simple and quirky. So, his bone drawings have faces and the heart has a personality. I haven’t seen the muscle drawings yet but I know Eugene will put his artistic spin on them that will bring the muscles to life.

The collaboration process has typically been iterative from the time I submit my initial Book Information Sheet with illustration suggestions for each verse, until the final galley. Lynda has given me an opportunity up front to provide my basic thoughts to Eugene about what might work to support the content. For some verses, the possible illustrations are more obvious than for others. But in all cases, the artist is free to take my suggestions as a non-artist and interpret the content.

The first time I will see Eugene’s interpretation is in the initial galley Lynda sends me for review. I consider that point the start of the back and forth “tweaking phase” where I provide feedback to be sure the artwork and content are in sync—for example, does the number of pints of blood in the verse and the illustration match. During that phase, the publisher also has input based on her experience about what works and what doesn’t. The overall production process can take several months to a year. But when we stick a fork in the final galley, release happens shortly after.

DMc: Shifting gears a bit, where did you grow up and go to school and where have you lived over the years?


BK: I grew up as the oldest (and only boy) among four children. My dad was in the Air Force. So, we moved around a lot and changed schools a lot. We were known as military brats among kids in the local communities, which tended to give us a clear identity—and it probably created a certain defensive pride about who we were. By the time I graduated from high school, I had lived in Germany (twice) and Bolivia, Arizona, Florida (twice), Georgia and Virginia. And I had attended six different schools in three countries.

As an adult, I continued to move around as a member of the Air Force myself. In addition to living in Florida (twice again), Texas (also twice), Virginia (again) and California, I also lived in Thailand and Italy. I think all those experiences have taught me to look for both commonly shared values and unique qualities of people wherever they may live.

DMc: How do you keep your ideas fresh and entertaining for our young muses?


BK: Good question, Donna. One validation point for me has been watching our grandchildren as they play and discover things. I suppose I saw the same things when our children were growing up but I was often too busy to notice the fine points then. In fact, now I find myself experiencing déjà vu moments that “suddenly” inspire me to write a certain story.

One example which led to a published book is seeing the reaction on our four-year old grandson’s face when he saw a spider in the sink in the bathroom one morning. Another is my own recollection of fireflies on a summer evening when I was a kid, reinforced when our own children and grandchildren had the same experience. And who hasn’t had ants in their kitchen? Some things seem timeless and yet they can be captured in ways that seem totally in the moment because they happen around us every day.

As for the anatomical rhymes, I’d have to say those are based on a personal interest in health and wellbeing and my own curiosity about how the body works. The challenge is to write about the subject in a way kids will find odd, funny, amazing, a little scary or even gross. I haven’t mastered “gross” just yet but I’m getting there.

DMc: How do you spend your time when not writing? And how can our readers learn more about your diverse writing career?


BK: I’m retired from professional life. But I have often found myself stretched further now than ever before with no end of things to do. I’m an Eagle Scout and am currently the Scoutmaster for Troop 259 in Sacramento, CA. I got back into Scouting about eight years ago when our grandson, Dylan, was old enough to join Cub Scouts. He is currently a Life Scout. The Troop is currently planning a 50-mile, six-day backpacking trek in July in the High Sierra. So, backpacking and camping are how I recharge. I am also active in my church and will start a three-year term as a Deacon next month.

As for my writing, it is something that I have always enjoyed as a creative outlet. I feel very blessed to be able to work with some terrific artists and to see some of our joint efforts in print, whether in magazines, newspapers or books. Readers can sample some of my written meanderings on my website at http://www.billkirkwrites.com/, on my blog at http://billkirkwrites.blogspot.com/ and of course via the Guardian Angel Publishing site at http://guardianangelpublishing.com/.

Bill, thank you for visiting with me today...it's been wonderful getting to know you even more.

~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~
Best wishes,
Donna M. McDine
Award-winning Children's Author
The Golden Pathway ~ August 2010 ~ Guardian Angel Publishing, Inc.
http://guardianangelpublishing.com/pathway.htm

Monday, May 2, 2011

Children's author - Cheryl Malandrinos visits Write What Inspires You! & Book Review: Little Shepherd


Cheryl and I met early on in our writing careers, long before we became fellow "Angels" at Guardian Angel Publishing and we forged  an immediate friendship online and low and behold we both published our first children's picture book in August 2010. I hope to meet Cheryl in person some day and I'm pleased share with my recent interview of Cheryl.

DMc: Since embarking on my own writing career several years ago I've learned authors were many hats beyond that of writer. How do you balance your career of author, editor, ghostwriter, and publicist?



CM: Now, if someone had told me I was expected to balance things, I would have planned it all out differently. LOL! Being a wife and mom has to come first; though my family might argue they don’t.

Coordinating virtual book tours takes up the majority of my work day, so I have to plan out my writing time in little bits each week. Now that both girls are in school, I am free to work 7 hours a day without interruption, except tossing in a load of laundry or taking a break to eat. It’s made a huge difference in what I can accomplish—though you don’t want to see what my house looks like right now.

In order to manage, I write up a goals list in January that I review each quarter. I write a weekly to-do list, and check off each task as I perform it to keep me moving forward. When I work, I don’t answer the phone and I limit how often I check my email. Keeping distractions at a minimum makes me more productive. I run errands once a week, so I’m not running around too often.

When the girls come home I stop working and try not to go back again until after they are in bed.

DMc: School visits are instrumental in building one's author platform. What can an interested school expect from a visit by you?


CM: Great question. I’m in our schools as often as I can be. Sometimes it’s just to read a book and other times I hold workshops. Earlier this year I visited my daughter’s first grade class and held a workshop about characters. We talked about some of their favorite characters: what they liked about them, if there were things they didn’t like about them, and how they could create their own characters.

In mid-May I’ll be visiting my other daughter’s fourth grade classroom to hold a two-day workshop on story building. What I feel is very important is communicating your ideas with educators and trying to make your workshops tie into their curriculum. Our school district teaches about immigration in fourth grade, so one of exercises is: write a scene where a character has just stepped off the boat at Ellis Island.

DMc: Please share with us your road to publishing Little Shepherd?


CM: I could talk about this for a long time, because I truly believe God planted this idea on my heart a long time ago. When my nine-year-old daughter was only a toddler, I would sing Christmas carols to her as lullabies. Each time I sang The Little Drummer Boy, I got the idea to write a story about a shepherd in the hills outside Bethlehem on the night of Christ’s birth. The idea just wouldn’t go away.

After our second daughter was born, I became a stay-at-home mom and began to pursue my writing career. I started a blog to gain online exposure and soon was reviewing books. An author from Guardian Angel Publishing (GAP) asked me to review her book. I loved it so much that I requested other GAP titles to review. I corresponded with GAP owner Lynda Burch during the Muse Online Writers Conference for two years before submitting Little Shepherd to her for consideration. I tried to mold the story so that it fit into one of GAP’s lines because I wanted them to publish it. After a few revisions, they accepted the book and it was released in August 2010.

DMc: Knowing the ins and outs of book promotion, what can an author expect from your Pump Up Your Book services?


CM: I’m proud to be part of the Pump Up Your Book! team. We coordinate virtual book tours for authors in a variety of genres. Our services are affordable and I believe we have a strong formula for success. We help authors reach readers and our services provide the online exposure so that potential readers can find them using search engines.

We have a group of regular bloggers who tour many of our clients’ books. Then we add blogs that are specific to the book, so each tour is unique. All tours are promoted with press releases, video trailers, and through our website and the use of social media.

DMc: How can our readers learn more about your multi-faceted career?


CM: My friends say I am all over the Internet. I’m not sure they mean it as a compliment, but it’s true. Having worked in online book promotion for nearly four years, blogging, and promoting my writing means I’m at a lot of places.


Readers can find me at:

http://ccmalandrinos.com/

http://littleshepherdchildrensbook.blogspot.com/

http://thebookconnectionccm.blogspot.com/

http://booktoursandmore.blogspot.com/

http://childrensandteensbookconnection.wordpress.com/

http://profwritersconnect.blogspot.com/  

http://www.pumpupyourbook.com/

I’m also on Facebook at http://www.facebook.com/#!/profile.php?id=1110037692 and on Twitter at http://twitter.com/#!/ccmalandrinos

Please stay for a bit longer and enjoy my book review of Cheryl's children's picture book, Little Shepherd.




Title: Little Shepherd


Author: Cheryl C. Malandrinos

Illustrator: Eugene Ruble

Soft cover: 16 pages

Publisher: Guardian Angel Publishing, Inc. / August 2010

ISBN-13: 978-161633-085-9

E-book ISBN: 978-161633-086-6

Wise beyond his years, young Obed has become a seasoned shepherd boy. Acutely aware of the hillside surroundings while tending his flock Obed stares at the sky in wonderment. A single bright light fills the sky. At first afraid, Obed felt a calmness wash over him as the beautiful angels descend, proclaiming “A Savior has been born to you; he is Christ the Lord.”
Unsure what their message means, Obed looks to his father for guidance. With reassurances from his father, Obed and the older shepherds journey to Bethlehem to meet the newborn King. Their journey and meeting Christ the Lord is nothing less than miraculous.
Your fist reaction may be, oh goodness another story on the birth of Christ. Toss those thoughts away and immerse yourself and your children into the magical arrival of Christ the Lord. Children’s author, Cheryl C. Malandrinos has re-explored and created a beautiful re-enactment of Christ the Lord’s birth in a unique and awe inspiring rendition which surely will become classical reading in Christian religious school studies and home libraries.

The old time illustrations expertly created by illustrator, Eugene Ruble will leave you feeling that you journeyed through the countryside with Obed and his fellow shepherds.
Visit children’s author, Cheryl C. Malandrinos at:
http://thebookconnectionccm.blogspot.com/ 

http://childrensandteensbookconnection.wordpress.com/

http://ccmalandrinos.tripod.com/

http://www.pumpupyourbook.com/




~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~
Best wishes,
Donna M. McDine
Award-winning Children's Author
The Golden Pathway ~ August 2010 ~ Guardian Angel Publishing, Inc.
http://guardianangelpublishing.com/pathway.htm

Sunday, May 1, 2011

Book Marketing Idea Exchange with VBT Writers on the Move - May 2011 tours

VBT Writers on the Move is pleased to announce the May 2011 line-up of cross promotion efforts. Each stop is unique and every author has valuable information to share, whether it be book marketing, social networking, or an article on writing. Be sure to follow along and pick up important advice or the chance to ask questions.

1st Karen Cioffi Deb Eckerling Karen Cioffi is featuring Deb Eckerling


2nd Kathy Stemke Maggie Ball Kathy Stemke is featuring Maggie Ball

3rd Margaret Fieland Joe Dadich Margaret Fieland is featuring Joe Dadich

4th Carolyn Howard-Johnson Elysabeth Eldering Carolyn Howard-Johnson is featuring Elysabeth Eldering

5th Stephen Tremp Jennifer Turner Stephen Tremp is featuring Jennifer Turner


6th Debra Eckerling Martha Swirzinski Debra Eckerling is featuring Martha Swirzinski

7th Martha Swirzinski Jennifer Gladen Martha Swirzinski is featuring Jennifer Gladen


8th Heidi Thomas Virginia Grenier Heidi Thomas is featuring Virginia Grenier

9th Dallas Woodburn Mari Taylor Dallas Woodburn is featuring Mari Taylor

10th Maggie Ball Kevin McNamee Maggie Ball is featuring Kevin McNamee

11th Viginia Grenier Robert Medak Virginia Grenier is featuring Robert Medak

12th Kevin McNamee Kathy Stemke Kevin McNamee is featuring Kathy Stemke

13th Elysabeth Eldering Carolyn Howard-Johnson Elysabeth Eldering is featuring Carolyn Howard-Johnson


14th Marietta Taylor Donna McDine Marietta Taylor is featuring Donna McDine

15th Robert Medak Shelby Patrick Robert Medak is featuring Shelby Patrick

16th Donna McDine Margaret Fieland Donna McDine is featuring Margaret Fieland


17th Shelby Patrick Heidi Thomas Shelby Patrick is featuring Heidi Thomas

18th Jennifer Gladen Dallas Woodburn Jennifer Gladen is featuring Dallas Woodburn

19th Jenny Turner Karen Cioffi Jenny Turner is featuring Karen Cioffi

20th Jennifer Wylie Stephen Tremp Jennifer Wylie is featuring Stephen Tremp

21st Joe Dadich Jenny Wylie Joe Dadich is featuring Jenny Wylie

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