tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-85441705292652593392024-03-04T20:52:26.722-08:00One Word at a TimeReading, Writing and Studying Children's Literature...One Word at a Time.Carmen Oliverhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03561190413516068339noreply@blogger.comBlogger100125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8544170529265259339.post-60841232713836753022014-10-22T07:26:00.001-07:002014-10-22T07:26:28.227-07:00Thankful For Many Splendid Things - New Client, Cynsations Post and More!<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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To me October is all about celebrating the many blessings we encounter partly because growing up in Canada, the Canadian Thanksgiving holiday always fell on the second Monday in October. So once October arrives, I naturally begin recounting the many splendid things I'm grateful for and this month I've much to be thankful for.<br />
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<tr><td><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg4ohRrVVJID8SQKtIe1mJAApiqEYFPEo56NHDl1oftuLtiPAme74Qst941joBJ2PppVf930hgjquog1qKJd4gpqTyuUkGX6IxXopAnbQ-V_BRT2ZjOPbx0rddZViuUWbd2e22uhxqcvzQA/s1600/LindseyLane_headshot.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg4ohRrVVJID8SQKtIe1mJAApiqEYFPEo56NHDl1oftuLtiPAme74Qst941joBJ2PppVf930hgjquog1qKJd4gpqTyuUkGX6IxXopAnbQ-V_BRT2ZjOPbx0rddZViuUWbd2e22uhxqcvzQA/s1600/LindseyLane_headshot.jpg" height="320" width="228" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="font-size: 13px;">Lindsey Lane</td></tr>
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I'm happy to announce that the incredibly compassionate, kind, and talented children's and young adult author <a href="http://www.lindseylane.net/">Lindsey Lane</a> has joined the <a href="http://www.thebookingbiz.com/">Booking Biz</a> family. Lindsey and I have been secretly working together since June 2014, and I'm thrilled to welcome her into the fold. There are many things I admire about Lindsey; I could go on and on about her evocative writing that emotes emotion after emotion on the page. I could go on and on about her spirit and how being in her presence makes you a better person. And I could go on and on about her work ethic and passion for the craft of writing. She gives herself completely to her book projects and it shows.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgKn6kisOQdlGXXfJAELDzNPDIX05WqGoGj7D2fd1jOGLvx8PfiI72_mFQjiq1uDFeOXVeWtdEa0TyhmGDzKRsNroiAG5gmc7FXnp82brD2lmJYCkA9b6rc_0b4TpUvcuvUhCFrWgCCh4Fk/s1600/Evidence-of-things-not-seen-cover.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgKn6kisOQdlGXXfJAELDzNPDIX05WqGoGj7D2fd1jOGLvx8PfiI72_mFQjiq1uDFeOXVeWtdEa0TyhmGDzKRsNroiAG5gmc7FXnp82brD2lmJYCkA9b6rc_0b4TpUvcuvUhCFrWgCCh4Fk/s1600/Evidence-of-things-not-seen-cover.jpg" height="320" width="213" /></a></div>
<span style="font-family: Calibri; font-size: 12pt;">Lindsey is
the author of the award-winning picture book (Clarion) and iTunes app
(PicPocket) <i>Snuggle Mountain</i>, which was named Best Children’s Book of 2004 by
Bank Street College of Education. According to Publisher's Weekly her debut young adult novel <i>Evidence of Things Not Seen</i> (Farrar Straus Giroux Books for Young Readers, 2014) is </span><span style="font-family: Calibri;"><i><span style="color: #18376a; font-size: 15pt;">"</span>a gripping and genre-bending mosaic
centered around the sudden disappearance of physics-obsessed high school junior
Tommy Smythe.”</i></span><br />
<span style="font-family: Calibri;"><i><br /></i></span>
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Speaking about incredibly passionate, kind, and talented children's and young adult authors, <a href="http://www.cynthialeitichsmith.com/">Cynthia Leitich Smith</a> is hosting me on her well-read and informational kid-lit writing blog <a href="http://cynthialeitichsmith.blogspot.com/">Cynsations</a> today with my guest post on <a href="http://cynthialeitichsmith.blogspot.com/2014/10/guest-post-carmen-oliver-on-founding.html">"Founding a Children's-YA Author & Illustrator Booking Agency,"</a> and I'm honored to be a contributor. Thank you, Cynthia.<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://fbcdn-sphotos-d-a.akamaihd.net/hphotos-ak-xpf1/v/t1.0-9/1376623_10151970242424868_233597676_n.jpg?oh=7b668d82ab89bd2ae6221e42b67be985&oe=54B27648&__gda__=1424820245_f13a43f16ae27b5ac8413c6e0fa4878d" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://fbcdn-sphotos-d-a.akamaihd.net/hphotos-ak-xpf1/v/t1.0-9/1376623_10151970242424868_233597676_n.jpg?oh=7b668d82ab89bd2ae6221e42b67be985&oe=54B27648&__gda__=1424820245_f13a43f16ae27b5ac8413c6e0fa4878d" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Cynthia Leitich Smith and I at the Texas Book Festival (2013)</td></tr>
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This coming <a href="http://www.texasbookfestival.org/festival-schedule/">Saturday, Oct 25th at 10am in the Family Life Center</a>, I'll be moderating the Grandfather Gandhi panel with peacemaker <a href="http://www.arungandhi.org/">Arun Gandhi </a>and children's and young adult author<a href="http://www.bethanyhegedus.com/"> Bethany Hegedus</a> at the <a href="http://www.texasbookfestival.org/">Texas Book Festival 2014</a>. This year's line-up boasts 280+ authors, the largest in the festival's history. Author friend <a href="http://www.gregleitichsmith.com/">Greg Leitich Smith</a> has put together a list of scheduled children's and young adult author panels on his blog. Click <a href="http://greglsblog.blogspot.com/2014/10/texas-book-festival-childrens-and-ya.html">HERE</a> to view. Thanks, Greg!<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEit2ujmCra13buMPb3W3PsVoIH9mFlTJ-dLbjAziOPxnipqQ_ruB7OTBY4duBtwjbuYvir2lhhzGAPQASK3nzUh7mX1dVj7JgEsQXlH3Soe8rsu_fJO0R1RGlnDUCnKwUxtsYZ6YBBhWg6m/s1600/Grandfather_Gandhi.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEit2ujmCra13buMPb3W3PsVoIH9mFlTJ-dLbjAziOPxnipqQ_ruB7OTBY4duBtwjbuYvir2lhhzGAPQASK3nzUh7mX1dVj7JgEsQXlH3Soe8rsu_fJO0R1RGlnDUCnKwUxtsYZ6YBBhWg6m/s1600/Grandfather_Gandhi.jpg" height="320" width="306" /></a></div>
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And I'd be remiss to say that I'm not in a state of bliss about the fact that my agent <a href="http://www.erzsideak.com/">Erzsi Deak</a> will be in town to read her book <a href="http://www.pumpkin-time.com/">Pumpkin Time!</a> illustrated by<a href="http://www.dougcushman.com/"> Doug Cushman</a> at the Texas Book Festival and to reconnect with some of her Texas chicks from <a href="http://www.henandink.com/">Hen & Ink Literary</a>.<br />
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If you live locally, please come out and celebrate <a href="http://www.texasbookfestival.org/">Texas Book Festival 2014</a> and be a part of this magnificent literature event that brings authors and families together at the Austin Capital and adjacent grounds. It's two days (Oct. 25-26, 2014) of readings, panels, children's activities, food, live music, and hundreds of exhibitors. The Texas Book Festival supports Texas libraries and literacy!<br />
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<br />Carmen Oliverhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03561190413516068339noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8544170529265259339.post-22328910700368054862014-10-10T05:00:00.001-07:002014-10-10T05:01:32.425-07:00ReaderKidZ Review - On the Wing I write reviews for children's books for many reasons.<br />
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One, I know what it feels like to discover a gem of a book you haven't heard about or seen before and I want to share the magic of that discovery with other readers.<br />
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Two, I think writing children's book reviews is another tool a writer can use to educate themselves on the craft of writing. You learn so much when you examine a book with a reviewer's eye. With picture books, you focus on the blend of art and text and you look to see how the story is extended through the illustrations. You examine the text for its musicality, rhythm, cadence, and patterns. Is it fun to read? Does the story engage? Then surprise you at the end?<br />
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And three, I write children's reviews because I LOVE language and I LOVE story.<br />
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So on that note hop on over to <a href="http://www.readerkidz.com/">ReaderKidZ</a> and read my review of <a href="http://www.indiebound.org/book/9780763653248">On the Wing</a> by <a href="http://www.davidelliottbooks.com/">David Elliott</a> and <a href="http://www.beccastadtlander.com/">Becca Stadtlander</a> (Candlewick, 2014) <a href="http://www.readerkidz.com/2014/10/07/on-the-wing-by-david-elliott-illustrated-by-becca-stadtlander/">HERE</a>.<br />
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Enjoy the incredible art by Becca Stadtlander in the book trailer!<br />
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<iframe allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="315" src="//www.youtube.com/embed/UJN4Z9CUIgA" width="560"></iframe>Carmen Oliverhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03561190413516068339noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8544170529265259339.post-1469342356795746112014-09-30T11:31:00.001-07:002014-09-30T11:42:30.474-07:00Pumpkin Time! Teacher/Librarian Appreciation GiftEvery year in the United States the <a href="http://www.pta.org/">National PTA</a> sponsors PTA Teacher Appreciation Week. It's an opportunity for us parents to thank the many teachers, administrators, and support staff that educate our children and enrich their lives. For the 2014-15 school year, the PTA Teacher Appreciation Week is <b>May 4-8, 2015</b>. It's never too early to start thinking about ideas and that's why I've put together the Pumpkin Time! Teacher/Librarian Appreciation Gift inspired by the picture book <a href="http://www.pumpkin-time.com/">Pumpkin Time!</a> by <a href="http://www.erzsideak.com/">Erzsi Deak</a>, illustrated by <a href="http://doug-cushman-watercolorist.4ormat.com/books">Doug Cushman</a> (Soucebooks, 2014). A book for all seasons!<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi0Zzppv9oCh6vPe3SIhDd3M_JkfRPAiqTWi4g0CxW7UCMFs1A0cavABzLrZGtRJoDqLy7cwylZ4yRmcqmD80HUj8hsfiG7PP3QUkQWcm5tR87xYLtiP4kqQmaPiJ_wWof2J_vmgKX3ch8/s1600/Pumpkin_Time_Cover.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi0Zzppv9oCh6vPe3SIhDd3M_JkfRPAiqTWi4g0CxW7UCMFs1A0cavABzLrZGtRJoDqLy7cwylZ4yRmcqmD80HUj8hsfiG7PP3QUkQWcm5tR87xYLtiP4kqQmaPiJ_wWof2J_vmgKX3ch8/s1600/Pumpkin_Time_Cover.jpg" height="320" width="320" /></a></div>
The Jacket Flap says:<br />
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<i>The day the cows strolled down Main Street in fancy hats...Evy didn't notice. </i><br />
<i>What was Evy doing? </i><br />
<i><br /></i><i>Evy is so focused on watching her garden grow that she misses all the silliness going on around her--pigs dancing, donkeys flying, and sheep having a picnic. But after Evy's spent all year taking care of her garden, everyone's invited to pumpkin time!</i><br />
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Isn't that what teachers do? Take care of our children. Cultivate our children. Nurture our children. I thought this book would serve as a lovely addition to teachers' classrooms and the perfect gift to say thank you no matter what time of year it is.<br />
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<span style="font-size: large;">
Pumpkin Time! Teacher/Librarian Appreciation Gift</span></h2>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgpUdYhVTj-IjjPop9uowdpJob8j2a-P1KRwgIB_Qp7Wfppx_p3cYiwv-UcNpqSNI7qACS5esQFsNIRqT_mmpipn_Uv0nWL34Sl5h3n6HHb7sC2KxmI1JMMOVuryIxXpmeRn6zqTAY1Trs/s1600/IMG_8069.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgpUdYhVTj-IjjPop9uowdpJob8j2a-P1KRwgIB_Qp7Wfppx_p3cYiwv-UcNpqSNI7qACS5esQFsNIRqT_mmpipn_Uv0nWL34Sl5h3n6HHb7sC2KxmI1JMMOVuryIxXpmeRn6zqTAY1Trs/s1600/IMG_8069.JPG" height="265" width="400" /></a></div>
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Supplies you will need:</h4>
Picture book <i>Pumpkin Time!</i> by Erzsi Deak and Doug Cushman<br />
Cardstock<br />
Scissors and 1/2 inch hole punch<br />
Twine<br />
See-thru plastic wrap<br />
Any kind of vegetable or plant seeds<br />
Gardening gloves<br />
Gardening shovel or rake<br />
Plant stand or pot<br />
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Step 1. Using your computer or handwrite "Teachers plant the seeds of knowledge that will grow forever" on your card stock. Then cut out your card using scissors and decorate. You can punch a tiny hole in the card and string some twine through. This will allow you to attach the card to the gift.<br />
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<tr><td><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjYSUm9-AiCbkI-Qaqqx1E6TbWXZnS_8Biqa2VjwvPIOwPd462dt5j9kbccWfNKrIeajQFDoGLnzXVMdYGZc1kJ4OqCvgLKPdBgrtqofX7GrVR8XSiplF_In4GLZjEV4WAqA5H7cgoy-OY/s1600/IMG_8053.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjYSUm9-AiCbkI-Qaqqx1E6TbWXZnS_8Biqa2VjwvPIOwPd462dt5j9kbccWfNKrIeajQFDoGLnzXVMdYGZc1kJ4OqCvgLKPdBgrtqofX7GrVR8XSiplF_In4GLZjEV4WAqA5H7cgoy-OY/s1600/IMG_8053.JPG" height="213" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="font-size: 13px;">Cardstock</td></tr>
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgovM9miyo3nzbrrZrmWhUa7YKRN-EYiS5wNyvKuGZrR6gE95ZWzz5VWDammDPP85O0RHoxvpBCUSK79euUEcOv9ht_PBrc78woHN8OsAs_MY_SrD1yWHKpRtrvVqNWCj1kufyNXIw6-HI/s1600/IMG_8064.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgovM9miyo3nzbrrZrmWhUa7YKRN-EYiS5wNyvKuGZrR6gE95ZWzz5VWDammDPP85O0RHoxvpBCUSK79euUEcOv9ht_PBrc78woHN8OsAs_MY_SrD1yWHKpRtrvVqNWCj1kufyNXIw6-HI/s1600/IMG_8064.JPG" height="213" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="font-size: 13px;">Decorated Card</td></tr>
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Step 2. Roll out some of your see-thru-plastic wrap and assemble your plant stand, gloves, rake, seeds, and picture book in the center of the plastic wrap after you've cut it to the size you need.<br />
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<tr><td><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjIhsRG9q48ueeHIxQmVHT4D9PXmJ0sncFt6GkWabd5YWNVhSIMNGHgRwsyoutB3dx0zJ_7Vv8_Q5YGaq7q8qCYGrnL_-cTWFGEHQzpu7ZdoLRkHFCblDLekzNfvgnDfnRA5on3VL8ahlQ/s1600/IMG_8062.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjIhsRG9q48ueeHIxQmVHT4D9PXmJ0sncFt6GkWabd5YWNVhSIMNGHgRwsyoutB3dx0zJ_7Vv8_Q5YGaq7q8qCYGrnL_-cTWFGEHQzpu7ZdoLRkHFCblDLekzNfvgnDfnRA5on3VL8ahlQ/s1600/IMG_8062.JPG" height="213" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="font-size: 13px;">Plant stand turned upside down with supplies inside</td></tr>
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<tr><td><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEieXB6nKCl6Thpejg1a8dyWJ53i34gjSflfP06F5W1iORfFkaac0cJnla_8bZYI2S_-gL6681j7JbD_uiRSXVMe816dWfZF7sxc6ZRSmUelnhye6liazVEwT4ptLMH9pVECXr6H1JEXBEI/s1600/IMG_8057.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEieXB6nKCl6Thpejg1a8dyWJ53i34gjSflfP06F5W1iORfFkaac0cJnla_8bZYI2S_-gL6681j7JbD_uiRSXVMe816dWfZF7sxc6ZRSmUelnhye6liazVEwT4ptLMH9pVECXr6H1JEXBEI/s1600/IMG_8057.JPG" height="213" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="font-size: 13px;">Seeds, gloves, rake</td></tr>
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Step 3. Pull up all four corners and bunch together in the middle. Tie your string around the plastic wrap to secure it. Then attach your card.<br />
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Deliver to your favorite teacher or librarian! We appreciate them. We really do!<br />
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<br />Carmen Oliverhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03561190413516068339noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8544170529265259339.post-72026681443590270182014-09-12T07:01:00.000-07:002014-09-12T07:01:00.438-07:00ReaderKidZ - This Orq. (he cave boy.)It's hard to believe we're into the middle of September already! I hope many of you have had a soft launch re-entering the school year and no major hassles or hang-ups. At our house, it's been an exciting few weeks. Middle school for the almost 12-year-old is cool with the addition of a locker and having a special space at school to call her own. The 5th-grader loves his new teacher and all the prestige and responsibility that comes with being the "leaders" at the school. I can remember when he was the smallest and youngest back in kindergarten and it's so nice to see him watching out for and making friends with the incoming kindergartners.<br />
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Speaking of friends, over at <a href="http://www.readerkidz.com/">ReaderKidZ</a>, friendship is the theme of the month. They're welcoming parents, educators, librarians back for another year of great books geared to the K-5 crowd. Check out these two wonderful books mirroring friends who always have each other's back!<br />
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Read the ReaderKidZ review <a href="http://www.readerkidz.com/2014/09/11/this-orq-he-cave-boy/">HERE</a> for <a href="http://www.indiebound.org/book/9781620915219">This Orq. (he cave boy.)</a> by award-winning author <a href="http://www.davidelliottbooks.com/">David Elliott</a>, illustrated by <a href="http://lorinichols.com/Lori_Nichols/home.html">Lori Nichols</a>.<br />
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Read the ReaderKidZ review <a href="http://www.readerkidz.com/2014/09/07/maggi-and-milo/">HERE</a> for <a href="http://www.indiebound.org/book/9780803737952">Maggie and Milo</a> by debut author <a href="http://julibrenning.com/">Juli Brenning,</a> illustrated by <a href="http://www.priscillaburris.com/">Priscilla Burris.</a><br />
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Be certain to check out all the books being reviewed by the talented crew over at ReaderKidZ who volunteer their time to inspire and foster a love of reading in kids K-5.<br />
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Happy September!<br />
<br />Carmen Oliverhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03561190413516068339noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8544170529265259339.post-12136280212076092492014-09-02T09:26:00.000-07:002014-09-02T09:26:18.024-07:00Texas Lifestyle Magazine - Tuesday Travels - Hyatt Regency Lost Pines and SpaThe summer is coming to an end but fall is just beginning. I love September. It's the start of a new school year and fresh beginnings.<br />
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I've been busy writing, working on publicity campaigns for my clients, and booking author visits. But during that time, I also managed to sneak a day or two off to see some of Texas with the family. The visit to <a href="http://lostpines.hyatt.com/en/hotel/home.html">Hyatt Regency Lost Pines Resort and Spa</a> was so memorable that I decided to write about it for <a href="http://www.texaslifestylemag.com/">Texas Lifestyle Magazine</a>. Click <a href="http://texaslifestylemag.com/tuesday-travels-a-wilderness-escape-in-the-lost-pines-region/">HERE</a> to read "Tuesday Travels: A Wilderness Escape in the Lost Pines Region." It's the perfect place to recapture those last moments of summer and anticipate the arrival of a new season. There's truly something here for everyone; choose an adventure or relax and rejuvenate!<br />
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Happy September, everyone!</div>
Carmen Oliverhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03561190413516068339noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8544170529265259339.post-54347796158788520672014-05-05T05:05:00.000-07:002014-05-05T10:49:27.866-07:00Writing Process Blog TourOver a week ago, my good friend <a href="http://www.donnabowmanbratton.com/">Donna Bowman Bratton </a>asked if I'd like to take part in a blog tour to talk about my writing process. Donna writes nonfiction and historical fiction for young readers. Her first two nonfiction books for Capstone Press will be released later this year followed by <i>Step Right Up: The Story of Beautiful Jim Key</i> (Lee & Low, 2015) and<i> En Garde! Abraham Lincoln's Dueling Words</i> (Peachtree, TBD). <a href="http://www.donnabowmanbratton.blogspot.com/2014/04/blog-tour-my-writing-process.html">Click HERE to read her post</a>.<br />
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I've been focusing a lot of my time on my clients and <a href="http://www.thebookingbiz.com/">the Booking Biz</a>, my new children's booking agency, so it's good to spend a few hours talking about what makes me write what I write. <br />
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<b>What am I currently working on?</b><br />
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Well, quite a few things to be honest. I just finished reviewing edits with my editor for an article that'll appear in the debut magazine<a href="http://www.seasonsmagazines.com/index.php?src=&submenu="> Seasons of South Austin</a>. It should hit news stands mid-May. If you want to learn more about what's happening in Austin's hip zip 78704, check out the debut issue!<br />
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I've also been busy marketing my clients' work and securing author visits for them. In March 2014, I launched <a href="http://www.thebookingbiz.com/">the Booking Biz</a>, an agency devoted to bringing award-winning children's authors and illustrators to you through school and library visits, conferences and festivals, and book stores and special events. Every day involves the business in some aspect, and I feel grateful to be able to work with such talented people. Not only my clients but the people like me who are passionate about creating lifelong readers and ensuring that children's literature thrives. It's also a joy to know that in some small way, I'm helping to bring authors/illustrators into the lives of children, in a more up close and personal way.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjbrBcxtcks1klSxHtXCL2cyZj5eCDuVCKxf47Ib8oK5ZSsrsYsUGravMdoDTGRKstzSN48dXajIuaHgbu-DFX53znvG7wPAj7L51kMZKjCOE-6wc-_0WwJbleOYA9KcSZRSTY9ShB735tH/s1600/BookingBizBacked.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjbrBcxtcks1klSxHtXCL2cyZj5eCDuVCKxf47Ib8oK5ZSsrsYsUGravMdoDTGRKstzSN48dXajIuaHgbu-DFX53znvG7wPAj7L51kMZKjCOE-6wc-_0WwJbleOYA9KcSZRSTY9ShB735tH/s1600/BookingBizBacked.jpg" height="182" width="320" /></a></div>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhqSlKxs8d1HnimtFZ31B-sfFsN861WZcQn2pdBCPzOijrsPmE5-FuXy9SkXH-uc5S2gHYMRaN_FQGqZGYWXIJdHtok254ghBhgziqZsc_1OA4tiOlG0kqn7lCPK-6ntTr2Eg10MOvkXn8B/s1600/BookingBizFlyerBACK.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhqSlKxs8d1HnimtFZ31B-sfFsN861WZcQn2pdBCPzOijrsPmE5-FuXy9SkXH-uc5S2gHYMRaN_FQGqZGYWXIJdHtok254ghBhgziqZsc_1OA4tiOlG0kqn7lCPK-6ntTr2Eg10MOvkXn8B/s1600/BookingBizFlyerBACK.jpg" height="207" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">My clients!</td></tr>
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While my agent <a href="http://www.henandink.com/">Erzsi Deak of Hen & Ink Literary Studio</a> is busy submitting my fiction and nonfiction picture books, I'm at work on a new picture book project. One that didn't come from an idea I had, but rather one my agent passed along to me after hearing editors talk about their wish lists. I love the challenge this project poses. It's a different process when you haven't come up with the idea yourself. First you have to find the story. A lot of brainstorming and crumpled pages end up in the trash. I'm also playing with a rhyming structure which I haven't done a lot with in the past, so I'm eager to see if I can find the passion and inspiration to create magic on the page.<br />
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<b>How does my work differ from others of its genre?</b><br />
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Hmmm. Great question. A little odd for me to answer because my books aren't published, yet. But hopefully what sets my work apart from others of its genres are my characters. Believable. Authentic. Relateable. Endearing. Can't-get-them-out-of-your-head characters.<br />
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I think that's what most children's writers strive to do. To create a character so real that the child feels like he knows them personally. That he wants to know everything about them. That he wants to return to them, night after night.<br />
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The other thing I think that makes my writing unique is me. My voice. My storytelling. My experiences. My imagination. My heart. My soul. My belief in myself. My belief in humanity. My belief in that every story matters. And every story needs to be told.<br />
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<b>Why do I write what I write?</b><br />
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I write on the topics of family, friendship, and making a difference. Themes that were in the books that my grandmother read to me as a child. My hope is that my storytelling and character development brings a uniqueness and freshness that children will respond to. I try to be honest. Real. Funny. And unpredictable.<br />
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Today, in a world where poverty is rampant, hardship is common, and success has never been more important in society. I want children to be children. To be entertained by books. To be inspired by books. To forget themselves in books. To find themselves in books.<br />
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I write what I write because family, friendship, and making a difference is what's important to me. They've shaped who I am and therefore it's my way of giving back to those people and relationships that have made a difference in my life.<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg_OYb0SeYuivhU_qi26ITU2_fDQ2_BFPKTfP8lUliHpGh2l36zBTliZHTgWSYFKR2PpYBB5BKUMEmRnkrlfs-zXxzhD1gvvNQbAaqjVOGLVN5DwD7Tz_CBBQO_XR7R7G4EpNZX8cO1sFkO/s1600/First_book.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg_OYb0SeYuivhU_qi26ITU2_fDQ2_BFPKTfP8lUliHpGh2l36zBTliZHTgWSYFKR2PpYBB5BKUMEmRnkrlfs-zXxzhD1gvvNQbAaqjVOGLVN5DwD7Tz_CBBQO_XR7R7G4EpNZX8cO1sFkO/s1600/First_book.jpg" height="320" width="239" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">First Book I ever Wrote about Friendships (Approx age Gr 3)</td></tr>
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<b>How does my individual writing process work?</b><br />
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It changes every day. Every week. Every year. I think that's one of the things I love about the creative process so much is that I'm still learning. Still figuring out what works and what doesn't. Still fine tuning my process. When something becomes stale, it's time to change things. When something stops working, it's definitely time to change things.<br />
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I can tell you this. I write best early in the morning.<br />
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I like to write as fast as I can to get a first draft down on paper. I can't really begin to shape a story until I have an ending.<br />
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I like to use a dummy book <a href="https://www.darcypattison.com/picture-books/how-to-mock-up-a-picture-book/">(click here to read a post by Darci Pattison on how to make one)</a> to write out my first draft. A process I adapted to help me figure out what happens next. As I turn the page I ask, "Now what?" It's also very useful to use when you've got a finished picture book but I also find it helpful at the beginning of the process too.<br />
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I REVISE endlessly. I've been told by several of my critique partners that I'm a fast reviser. And a great reviser. This is the best part of the process for me. When I can peel back the layers and find the heart of the story. Sometimes during this process, I find I have to abandon a project. It's just not working. The story isn't there. When this happens, it's time to store the manuscript and begin on something new.<br />
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I don't write every day now because of my other obligations but I do listen to my muse. I listen to it and myself and return to the page as often as I can get there. And I don't beat myself up because I can't write every day. I try to be kind to myself. I figure that's the best way to help draw the stories out!<br />
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Mark your calendars for next week Monday, May 12th when award-winning author <a href="http://www.davidelliottbooks.com/">David Elliott</a> and authors/illustrators <a href="http://www.evanturk.com/">Evan Turk</a> and <a href="http://www.andreazuill.com/">Andrea Zuill</a> share their creative process on their blogs.<br />
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Children’s author <a href="http://www.davidelliottbooks.com/">David Elliott </a>is the creator of the
bestselling series <i>On the Farm</i>, <i>In the Wild</i>, and <i>In the Sea</i> with <i>On the Wing</i>
poised to publish in 2014 and the final book in the series <i>In the Past</i> in 2016. His book <i>And
Heres to You </i>illustrated by Randy Cecil was a New York Times bestseller and
his chapter books like <i>Jeremy Cabbage</i>
and <i>The Transmogrification of Roscoe
Wizzle </i>are hilarious and full of heart. <a href="http://davidelliottbooks.com/news">David's blog can be found here</a>.<o:p></o:p></div>
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<a href="http://www.evanturk.com/">Evan Turk</a> is an author, illustrator, and animator working in
New York City. He is originally from Colorado, and loves being in nature,
traveling, and learning about other cultures through drawing. He is a graduate
of Parsons and continues his studies as a member of Dalvero Academy. <i>Grandfather Gandhi</i> is his first picture
book. <a href="http://evanturk.blogspot.com/">Evan's blog can be found here</a>.</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgEHn5vVHxgujJH9S4ZIJQU75k3WsQqrrYmX7vyKgsP7gzQsM9DBWk97OyTSv3z1dMw8oxsgFya9qbtGzsJmQw5Z7XacgvcunIB8C9HSgP_hz325p3SHB_octBoIp9AmBnPgmu3jKy_s9f6/s1600/Andrea_Zuill_Cartoon.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgEHn5vVHxgujJH9S4ZIJQU75k3WsQqrrYmX7vyKgsP7gzQsM9DBWk97OyTSv3z1dMw8oxsgFya9qbtGzsJmQw5Z7XacgvcunIB8C9HSgP_hz325p3SHB_octBoIp9AmBnPgmu3jKy_s9f6/s1600/Andrea_Zuill_Cartoon.jpg" /></a></div>
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Andrea Zuill is an artist, author, and illustrator living in the San Diego area. Her art work recently appeared at an exhibit at <a href="http://www.hamiltongalleries.com/Hamilton_Galleries/Blank.html">Hamilton Art Galleries </a>and her first picture book <i>Urban Wolf</i> will be published with Schwartz & Wade in 2016. <a href="http://zuill.us/andreablog/">Andrea's blog can be found </a><u>here</u>.</div>
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Carmen Oliverhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03561190413516068339noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8544170529265259339.post-62813912083472320392014-03-19T05:00:00.000-07:002014-03-20T04:40:47.866-07:00Picture Book Review: The Very Tiny BabyAs a mother with children who were born premature, <i><a href="http://www.indiebound.org/book/9781580894456">The Very Tiny Baby</a></i> by <a href="http://www.sylviekantorovitz.com/home.html">Sylvie Kantorovitz</a> (<a href="http://www.charlesbridge.com/">Charlesbridge</a>, 2014) caught my attention. It's a topic I've often thought of exploring in a picture book and naturally I was curious to see how this author broached the subject. Brilliantly, in my opinion. Just the right amount of fact, honesty, and story woven together.<br />
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Jacob and his teddy bear Bob, Jacob's alter ego, are waiting the arrival of a new sibling. His mother and father and grandmother are excited about the baby but Jacob has mixed emotions. He's not sure he's happy about it. "Bob says the baby will steal my toys." When the baby arrives too soon (premature), everybody is concerned about the baby surviving. Will it live? Jacob doesn't understand if the baby is in the hospital under constant care by a doctor and team of nurses why aren't his mother and father home taking care of him instead of Grandma. At one point, we hear Jacob's darkest thoughts "I think we should give the baby away. I wish the baby would die." </div>
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Through Jacob's good and bad thoughts, we understand his worries "I want to be the only one again" and watch his transformation as he understands the obstacles the tiny baby faces, learns to forgive his parents, and ultimately embraces the role of big brother.</div>
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I think this author's brave candid approach will allow for open discussions within families as they prepare for new siblings especially ones born premature. It reminds me of the honest conversations we had in our family with the birth of our premature children. The illustrations remind me of author/illustrator Lauren Child's Charlie & Lola series, full of expression and child-like. For ages 2 - 7.</div>
Carmen Oliverhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03561190413516068339noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8544170529265259339.post-14553368801269380632014-03-17T06:11:00.000-07:002014-03-17T06:11:06.000-07:00ReaderKidZ Review - Grandfather GandhiThere's been so many exciting things happening for me and my friends in 2014. Today, I'd like to share a special book with you and an incredible journey of inspiration, passion, and perseverance. The book I'm referring to is<i> <a href="http://www.indiebound.org/book/9781442423657">Grandfather Gandhi,</a></i> co-authored by my dear friend <a href="http://www.bethanyhegedus.com/">Bethany Hegedus</a> and <a href="http://www.arungandhi.org/">Arun Gandhi</a>, illustrated by <a href="http://evanturk.com/">Evan Turk </a>(Atheneum Books for Young Readers, Mar 2014).<br />
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I had the privilege of reviewing this book at <a href="http://www.readerkidz.com/">ReaderKidZ</a> this month and you can read the review and short interview with Bethany by clicking <a href="http://www.readerkidz.com/2014/03/13/grandfather-gandhi/">HERE</a>. Additionally, <a href="https://www.kirkusreviews.com/">Kirkus Reviews</a> author<a href="https://www.kirkusreviews.com/features/author/laura-jenkins/"> Laura Jenkins</a> also interviewed Arun, Bethany, and Evan and you can read their conversation <a href="https://www.kirkusreviews.com/features/bethany-hegedus-and-arun-gandhi/">HERE</a>.<br />
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Arun is the 5th grandson of Mohandas (Mahatma) Gandhi and the book<i> Grandfather Gandhi</i> chronicles a special time when Arun visited his grandfather at the Sevagram Ashram and the life lessons he discovered that would lead him to choose lamp over lightening.<br />
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What I find especially rewarding about this book for children of all ages is its capacity to be a ripple in the pond affecting change around the world especially in how we deal with anger. It's also a true testament to the art form of the picture book. The collaboration between Bethany and Arun and their belief in each other to get the story right. It didn't matter how long the process took, they'd stay the course and see it to fruition. On dark days, when balled up paper and tears mixed, Bethany knew giving up wasn't an option. She knew not to force the story and like our friend and mentor New York Times best-selling author <a href="http://www.cynthialeitichsmith.com/">Cynthia Leitich Smith</a> always says, "When all else fails, begin again."<br />
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Then enter Evan Turk, a young up-and-coming illustrator bursting with talent and creative ingenuity. His mixed media collages are nothing short of brilliant, the colors vibrant, the emotions evocative of prayer and peace then switching to anger and lightening. It's visually breathtaking and I foresee many awards in its future.<br />
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Over the years, Bethany and I have discussed working together but it wasn't until this book neared its debut before we figured out how the puzzle pieces were going to fit together for us to collaborate. As her booking agent of<a href="http://www.thebookingbiz.com/"> the Booking Biz</a>, I'm thrilled to help bring this author and this important story into libraries, schools, book stores, literary festivals, and conferences. I'm also honored to be representing the award-winning author/illustrator <a href="http://www.dontate.com/">Don Tate</a> and award-winning author <a href="http://www.diannedelascasas.com/">Dianne de Las Casas</a>. I'm a staunch admirer of their work and their work ethic and how they live their life and spread joy.<br />
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With the first quarter of 2014 underway, I'm excited with this new business venture, the possibilities on the horizon with my own picture book projects, and continuing to be an advocate for children's literature.<br />
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Pick up a book and read to a child today, inspire a life-long reader!<br />
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<br />Carmen Oliverhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03561190413516068339noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8544170529265259339.post-84901463381139412202014-02-12T05:31:00.000-08:002014-02-12T05:31:46.487-08:00ReaderKidZ Review - Under the Freedom TreeIn celebration of Black History Month I reviewed the book <i><a href="http://www.indiebound.org/book/9781580895507">Under the Freedom Tree</a></i> by<a href="http://www.susanvanhecke.com/"> Susan VanHecke</a>, illustrations by<a href="http://www.londonladd.com/"> London Ladd </a>(<a href="http://www.charlesbridge.com/">Charlesbridge</a>, 2014).<br />
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<span style="background-color: white; font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', Times, serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 24px; margin: 0px; padding: 0px;">Peek from my ReaderKidZ review:</span><em style="background-color: white; font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', Times, serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 24px; margin: 0px; padding: 0px;"> "Under the Freedom Tree tells the story of three runaway Confederate slaves who steal away under night’s blanket of protection and row their weathered skiff to the Union side. They’re seeking freedom, a chance to build a life for themselves, but if they’re caught, “Shackles. The whip. Sold downriver. Or worse...”</em><br />
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Click <a href="http://www.readerkidz.com/2014/02/11/under-the-freedom-tree/">HERE</a> to read my full review at <a href="http://www.readerkidz.com/">ReaderKidZ</a> and to hear what the author and illustrator had to say about how this story came to be, and why they think it's important for young people to know this story.<br />
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Also last year, I interviewed illustrator<a href="http://www.dontate.com/"> Don Tate</a> at <a href="http://www.readerkidz.com/">ReaderKidZ</a> about his book <a href="http://www.indiebound.org/book/9781580893879"><i>The Cart That Carried Martin</i> </a>written by <a href="http://www.readingrockets.org/books/interviews/bunting/">Eve Bunting</a> (<a href="http://www.charlesbridge.com/">Charlesbridge,</a> 2013).<br />
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<span style="background-color: white; font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', Times, serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 24px;">Peek from my ReaderKidZ review: "...</span><span style="background-color: white; color: #111111; font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', Times, serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 24px;"><i>Eve Bunting and Don Tate have collaborated to bring us the story about the “humble cart that, not so long ago, carried greatness.” It is a poignant tale that pays tribute to the late reverend and how the American people honored Dr. King</i>..."</span><br />
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Click <a href="http://www.readerkidz.com/2013/09/22/the-cart-that-carried-martin/">HERE</a> to read the full review and interview.<br />
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On a final note make sure you drop by <a href="http://thebrownbookshelf.com/">the Brown Bookshelf </a>as they celebrate twenty-eight days of Black History Month through children's literature.Carmen Oliverhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03561190413516068339noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8544170529265259339.post-33708356672867575112014-01-24T06:12:00.002-08:002014-01-24T06:15:17.408-08:00ReaderKidZ Review - Goldy Luck and the Three PandasChinese New Year (Jan. 31, 2014) is just around the corner fellow readers and bloggers. May the Year of the Horse fill you with great wealth, long life, and good luck!<br />
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Check out my <a href="http://www.readerkidz.com/">ReaderKidZ</a> review for <i>Goldy Luck and the Three Pandas</i> by <a href="http://natashayim.com/">Natasha Yim</a>, Illustrated by <a href="http://www.charlesbridge.com/contributorinfo.cfm?ContribID=711">Grace Zong</a> (Charlesbridge, 2014). Click <a href="http://www.readerkidz.com/2014/01/23/goldy-luck-and-the-three-pandas/">HERE</a>.<br />
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Not only will readers uncover a thing or two about the celebrations of Chinese New Year but they'll laugh along at Goldy's unfortunate luck in this spirited retelling of the classic fairy tale "Goldilocks and the Three Bears."</div>
Carmen Oliverhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03561190413516068339noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8544170529265259339.post-31829753820904651672014-01-10T03:42:00.000-08:002014-01-10T03:42:26.624-08:00ReaderKidZ Review and Interview with LITTLE RED WRITING Author Joan HolubAuthor/Illustrator <a href="http://www.joanholub.com/">Joan Holub</a> drops by <a href="http://www.readerkidz.com/">ReaderKidZ</a> to talk about her latest book <i>Little Red Writing</i>, illustrated by Caldecott Honoree<a href="http://www.melissasweet.com/"> Melissa Sweet</a> (<a href="http://www.chroniclebooks.com/titles/kids-teens">Chronicle Books</a>, 2013). Click <a href="http://www.readerkidz.com/2014/01/09/little-red-writing/">HERE</a> to read our interview.<br />
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Having written and/or illustrated over 130 books for young people, Joan knows a thing or two about telling stories. This retelling of fairy tale <i>Little Red Riding Hood</i> is humorous and filled with lots of plot twists and turns. It's fresh and original and a must-have-addition for your library.<br />
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It's Humor month at <a href="http://www.readerkidz.com/">ReaderKidZ</a> so be sure and check out all the posts highlighting funny and outrageous books especially <a href="http://www.readerkidz.com/2013/12/31/make-them-laugh-help-them-read/">Make Them Laugh. Help Them Read</a> by <a href="http://www.annjacobus.com/">Ann Jacobus</a>. It highlights several favorite books in our household too!</div>
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Carmen Oliverhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03561190413516068339noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8544170529265259339.post-3529590341510828122013-11-04T07:10:00.002-08:002013-11-06T05:35:47.642-08:00ReaderKidZ Interview with Author Melissa Stewart<a href="http://www.melissa-stewart.com/">Melissa Stewart</a> drops by <a href="http://www.readerkidz.com/">ReaderKidZ</a> to talk about her latest book <i>No Monkeys, No Chocolate</i>, co-authored with Allen Young, illustrated by <a href="http://www.nicolemwong.com/">Nicole Wong </a>(<a href="http://www.charlesbridge.com/">Charlesbridge</a>, 2013). Click <a href="http://www.readerkidz.com/2013/11/03/melissa-stewart-talks-nonfiction-and-chocolate/">HERE</a> to read Part I of our interview.<br />
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Having written over 150 books for young people, Melissa knows a thing or two about writing nonfiction! And she shares research tips for young readers, too. Perfect timing as 4th and 5th graders will be starting their science projects next month in central Texas. I also adore her advice on organizing writing ideas. </div>
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Be sure and check back for Part II of our interview which will air later in the week on <a href="http://www.readerkidz.com/">ReaderKidZ</a> but I'll post the link here, too.<br />
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Click<a href="http://www.readerkidz.com/2013/11/05/a-conversation-with-author-melissa-stewart-part-2/"> HERE</a> for Part II of the interview with Melissa. Enjoy!</div>
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Carmen Oliverhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03561190413516068339noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8544170529265259339.post-21267473481963555852013-10-23T08:00:00.002-07:002013-10-23T08:00:35.757-07:00ReaderKidZ Review - Ode to HalloweenIt's hard to believe fall is knocking on our door again and Halloween is around the corner. Trick or Treat!<br />
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We're shopping for pumpkins. Are you?<br />
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Kids carving pumpkins in 2012</td></tr>
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Brainstorming costume ideas. What will we be this year?<br />
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">2011's costumes with the family</td></tr>
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Baking pumpkin chocolate cupcakes, thanks for inspiring us author <a href="http://www.corypoakes.com/">Cory Putman Oakes</a> (get recipe <a href="http://www.tasteofhome.com/recipes/pumpkin-chip-muffins">HERE</a>)!<br />
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And naturally, reading scary and sweet books! Today, I highlight two new books to hit library and bookstore shelves and I hope you enjoy them as much as we did! Just hop on over to<a href="http://www.readerkidz.com/"> ReaderKidZ</a> and read my review "<a href="http://www.readerkidz.com/2013/10/22/ode-to-halloween/">Ode to Halloween!"</a>.<br />
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Have a safe and happy Halloween!Carmen Oliverhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03561190413516068339noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8544170529265259339.post-81579934801044463832013-10-11T06:00:00.000-07:002013-10-11T06:00:00.006-07:00ReaderKidZ Review - Prisoner 88Over at <a href="http://www.readerkidz.com/">ReaderKidZ</a> it's Historical Fiction month, and I couldn't be happier than to review <a href="http://leahpileggi.com/">Leah Pileggi's</a> debut novel <a href="http://www.indiebound.org/book/9781580895606"><i>Prisoner 88</i> </a>(<a href="http://www.charlesbridge.com/">Charlesbridge</a>, 2013) for their many readers! To read the review click <a href="http://www.readerkidz.com/2013/10/10/prisoner-88/">HERE</a>.<br />
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<i><a href="http://www.indiebound.org/book/9781580895606">Prisoner 88</a></i> is one of those novels that will get under your skin. You'll feel for Jake and his predicament. The ten-year-old is in jail for killing a man. For killing a man who was trying to harm his father. It's a great example of cause and effect. How life can turn on a dime. How one decision can change your life. One minute your life is flowing in one direction, and in another it's overflowing its banks and taking you into uncharted territory. Pileggi peers deep inside her protagonist and peels back the layers for us. Jake's courage, hope, and unfailing resolve to see the good in people, to make the most of his situation, and to carve a new path for his future are nothing short of inspirational. <i>Prisoner 88</i> is unputdownable and unforgettable.<br />
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Make sure you check out <i><a href="http://www.indiebound.org/book/9781599907505">Odette's Secrets</a></i> by <a href="http://www.maryannmacdonald.com/">Maryann Macdonald</a> (<a href="http://www.bloomsbury.com/us/childrens/">Bloomsbury</a>, 2013) too. It's about a young Jewish girl surviving World War II in France. Click <a href="http://www.readerkidz.com/2013/09/30/historical-fiction-month-a-young-jewish-girl-survives-world-war-ii-in-france-interview-with-odettes-secrets-author-maryann-macdonald/">HERE</a> to read an interview with the author.<br />
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Check in at <a href="http://www.readerkidz.com/">ReaderKidZ</a> throughout the month of October for many more great books, resources, reviews, interviews, and activities surrounding the theme of Historical Fiction!Carmen Oliverhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03561190413516068339noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8544170529265259339.post-9876243211455296532013-09-23T06:14:00.001-07:002013-09-23T06:14:26.265-07:00ReaderKidZ Review - The Cart That Carried MartinToday, I'm really excited because the interview with my buddy <a href="http://www.dontate.com/">Don Tate</a> is live at<a href="http://www.readerkidz.com/"> ReaderKid</a>Z, and he's shared his views and emotions with young readers about illustrating his latest book <i><a href="http://www.indiebound.org/book/9781580893879">The Cart That Carried Martin</a></i> written by Eve Bunting (<a href="http://www.charlesbridge.com/">Charlesbridge</a>, 2013). Click <a href="http://www.readerkidz.com/2013/09/22/the-cart-that-carried-martin/">HERE</a> to read the interview.<br />
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I'm also participating in <a href="http://nonfictionmonday.wordpress.com/">Nonfiction Monday</a>. Check out <a href="http://sallysbookshelf.blogspot.com/2013/09/best-foot-forward-nonfiction-monday.html">Sally's Bookshelf </a>to read reviews on the latest nonfiction books by kidlit bloggers. Sally is reviewing <i>Best Foot Forward</i> by Ingo Arndt (Holiday House, 2013) and she'll host rounding up many more titles worth checking out before this Monday is through. <br />
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<i>The Cart That Carried Martin </i>written by Eve Bunting, illustrated by <a href="http://www.dontate.com/">Don Tate</a> (<a href="http://www.charlesbridge.com/">Charlesbridge</a>, 2013). For ages 6-9.<br />
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<b>Jacket Flap:</b><br />
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"The cart was old. Nobody wanted it.<br />
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There was a faded wooden cart outside Cook's Antiques and Stuff. The store was closed, so two men borrowed it and painted it green. They hitched it to Belle and Ada, the mules chosen to pull it through the streets of Atlanta from the Ebenezer Baptist Church to Morehouse College.<br />
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It seemed like an ordinary car pulled by ordinary mules. But it wasn't. The cart carried greatness. It carried the body of Martin Luther King Jr. on the day of his funeral."<br />
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<span style="background-color: white; color: #111111; font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', Times, serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 24px;">Bunting and Tate's collaboration bring us the story about the “humble cart that, not so long ago, carried greatness.” It is a poignant tale that pays tribute to the late reverend and how the American people honored Dr. King. Bunting's words are poetically chosen and rich with emotion and Tate's illustrations create light on a very dark day. Young readers will discover the depth of how Martin Luther King Jr. touched the souls of thousands as they turn the pages in <i>The Cart That Carried Martin </i>and the story behind the borrowed cart.</span><br />
<br />Carmen Oliverhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03561190413516068339noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8544170529265259339.post-61132389655638456102013-09-11T09:38:00.001-07:002013-09-11T09:45:17.152-07:00Texas Book Festival 2013 Children's and Young Adult Lineup RevealedToday is more than just a hump day. Today, the <a href="http://www.texasbookfestival.org/index.php">Texas Book Festival</a> revealed their children's and young adult author and illustrator lineup for the two day event on October 26 & 27, 2013. I've got goose bumps trailing up and down my arm as many local<a href="http://www.austinscbwi.com/"> Austin SCBWI </a>and Texas authors and illustrators are confirmed.<br />
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The full author list, including all genres, can be found by clicking <a href="http://www.texasbookfestival.org/Authors.php">HERE</a>.<br />
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Congrats to some of my friends who are featured this year!</div>
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Illustrator <a href="http://dontate.com/">Don Tate</a> featuring picture book <i>Hope's Gift</i> written by<a href="http://www.kellystarlinglyons.com/"> Kelly Starling Lyons</a> (Putnam Juvenille, 2012).</div>
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Author <a href="http://www.lizgartonscanlon.com/">Liz Scanlon</a> featuring picture book <i>Happy Birthday, Bunny!</i> illustrated by <a href="http://graegin.com/">Stephanie Graegin</a> (Beach Lane Books, 2013)</div>
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New York Times bestselling author <a href="http://www.cynthialeitichsmith.com/">Cynthia Leitich Smith</a> featuring her latest YA novel <i>Feral Nights</i> (Candelwick, 2013).</div>
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<a href="http://www.pjhoover.com/books_solstice.php">P.J. Hoover</a> featuring her debut YA novel <i>Solstice </i>(Tor Teen, 2013).</div>
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<a href="http://brianyansky.com/books.html">Brian Yansky</a> featuring his latest YA novel <i>Homicidal Aliens & Other Disappointments</i> (Candelwick, 2013)</div>
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<a href="http://amyrosecapetta.com/">Amy Rose Capetta </a>and her debut YA novel<i> Entangled</i> (Hougton Miflin, 2013).</div>
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As of press time, here is the list of children's and young adult authors and illustrators provided by the 2013 Texas Book Festival. </div>
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<b><u><span style="font-family: 'Times New Roman', serif; font-size: 10pt;">Children’s – Young Adult</span></u></b><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"; font-size: 10.0pt; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";"><o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"; font-size: 10.0pt;">Jon
Agee, <i>Little Santa</i><o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"; font-size: 10.0pt;">Katherine
Applegate, <i>The One and Only Ivan</i><o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"; font-size: 10.0pt;">Mac
Barnett and Jon Scieszka, <i>Battle Bunny</i>
<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"; font-size: 10.0pt;">John
Bemelmans Marciano, <i>Madeline and the Old
House in Paris <o:p></o:p></i></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"; font-size: 10.0pt;">Sophie
Blackall<i>, Ivy & Bean </i><o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0.0001pt;">
<span style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"; font-size: 10.0pt;">Monica
Brown, <i>Marisol McDonald and the Clash
Bash<o:p></o:p></i></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"; font-size: 10.0pt;">Clark
Burbidge, <i>The Prodigals: Giants in the
Land<o:p></o:p></i></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"; font-size: 10.0pt;">Amy
Rose Capetta<i>, Entangled<o:p></o:p></i></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"; font-size: 10.0pt;">Alexandra
Coutts,<i> Tumble & Fall <o:p></o:p></i></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"; font-size: 10.0pt;">Doreen
Cronin and Betsy Lewin, <i>Click, Clack,
Boo!: A Tricky Treat<o:p></o:p></i></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"; font-size: 10.0pt;">Caprice
Crane,<i> Confessions of a Hater <o:p></o:p></i></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"; font-size: 10.0pt;">Matt
de la Pena<i>, The Living <o:p></o:p></i></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"; font-size: 10.0pt;">Tracy
Deebs,<i> Doomed<o:p></o:p></i></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"; font-size: 10.0pt;">Kristina
Ellis<i>, Confessions of a Scholarship
Winner: The Secrets That Helped Me Win $500,000 in Free Money for College-How
You Can Too!<o:p></o:p></i></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"; font-size: 10.0pt;">Brian
Floca<i>, Locomotive <o:p></o:p></i></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"; font-size: 10.0pt;">Gayle
Forman,<i> Just One Year<o:p></o:p></i></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"; font-size: 10.0pt;">Kami
Garcia,<i> Unbreakable<o:p></o:p></i></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"; font-size: 10.0pt;">Xavier
Garza,<i> Maximillian and the Bingo Rematch<o:p></o:p></i></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"; font-size: 10.0pt;">Adam
Gidwitz<i>, The Grimm Conclusion <o:p></o:p></i></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"; font-size: 10.0pt;">Marcia
Goldman<i>, Lola Goes to Work: A
Nine-to-Five Therapy Dog<o:p></o:p></i></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"; font-size: 10.0pt;">Karen
Harrington<i>, Sure Signs of Crazy<o:p></o:p></i></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"; font-size: 10.0pt;">Edward
Hemingway,<i> Bad Apple: A Tale of
Friendship <o:p></o:p></i></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"; font-size: 10.0pt;">P.J.
Hoover, <i>Solstice</i> <o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"; font-size: 10.0pt;">Kate
Hosford, <i>Infinity and Me</i> <o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"; font-size: 10.0pt;">Gordon
Korman,<i> The Hypnotist: Book 1<o:p></o:p></i></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"; font-size: 10.0pt;">Jessica
Khoury,<i> Origin<o:p></o:p></i></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"; font-size: 10.0pt;">Claire
Legrand, <i>The Year of Shadows <o:p></o:p></i></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: 'Times New Roman', serif; font-size: 10pt;">Cynthia Leitich Smith, <i>Feral Nights</i></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: 'Times New Roman', serif; font-size: 10pt;">Diana
Lopez,</span><i style="font-family: 'Times New Roman', serif; font-size: 10pt;"> Ask My Mood Ring How I Feel</i></div>
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<span style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"; font-size: 10.0pt;">Bennett
Madison, <i>September Girls</i> <o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0.0001pt;">
<span style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"; font-size: 10.0pt;">Yuyi
Morales, Niño Wrestles the World<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0.0001pt;">
<span style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"; font-size: 10.0pt;">Herman
Parish<i>, Amelia Bedelia Chapter Book #1:
Amelia Bedelia Means Business<o:p></o:p></i></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0.0001pt;">
<span style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"; font-size: 10.0pt;">Joanna
Philbin, <i>Rules of Summer</i><o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0.0001pt;">
<span style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"; font-size: 10.0pt;">Aprilynne
Pike, <i>Earthbound<o:p></o:p></i></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0.0001pt;">
<span style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"; font-size: 10.0pt;">James
Preller,<i> Scary Tales: Good Night Zombie<o:p></o:p></i></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0.0001pt;">
<span style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"; font-size: 10.0pt;">Chris
Raschka<i>, Daisy Gets Lost<o:p></o:p></i></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0.0001pt;">
<span style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"; font-size: 10.0pt;">Adam
Rex,<i> Moonday<o:p></o:p></i></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0.0001pt;">
<span style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"; font-size: 10.0pt;">Adam
Rubin<i>, Secret Pizza Party<o:p></o:p></i></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0.0001pt;">
<span style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"; font-size: 10.0pt;">Sergio
Ruzzier<i>, Bear and Bee <o:p></o:p></i></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0.0001pt;">
<span style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"; font-size: 10.0pt;">Leila
Sales,<i> This Song Will Save Your Life<o:p></o:p></i></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0.0001pt;">
<span style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"; font-size: 10.0pt;">Liz
Scanlon,<i> Happy Birthday, Bunny!<o:p></o:p></i></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0.0001pt;">
<span style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"; font-size: 10.0pt;">Bob
Shea<i>, Unicorn Thinks He’s Pretty Great <o:p></o:p></i></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0.0001pt;">
<span style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"; font-size: 10.0pt;">Steve
Sheinkin, <i>The Notorious Benedict Arnold:
A True Story of Adventure, Heroism & Treachery</i><o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"; font-size: 10.0pt;">Neal
Shusterman, <i>UnSouled</i><o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0.0001pt;">
<span style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"; font-size: 10.0pt;">Lemony
Snicket,<i> “When Did You See her Last?”
(All the Wrong Questions)<o:p></o:p></i></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0.0001pt;">
<span style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"; font-size: 10.0pt;">Bob
Staake<i>, Bluebird<o:p></o:p></i></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0.0001pt;">
<span style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"; font-size: 10.0pt;">R.L.
Stine, <i>A Midsummer Night’s Scream <o:p></o:p></i></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"; font-size: 10.0pt;">Elizabeth
Suneby,<i> Razia’s Ray of Hope: One Girl’s
Dream of an Education <o:p></o:p></i></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"; font-size: 10.0pt;">James
Swanson,<i> The President Has Been Shot: The
Assassination of John F. Kennedy<o:p></o:p></i></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0.0001pt;">
<span style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"; font-size: 10.0pt;">Don
Tate (illustrator),<i> Hope’s Gift <o:p></o:p></i></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"; font-size: 10.0pt;">Heather
Terrell,<i> Relic: The Books of Eva <o:p></o:p></i></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0.0001pt;">
<span style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"; font-size: 10.0pt;">Duncan
Tonatiuh<i>, Pancho Rabbit and the Coyote: A
Migrant’s Tale<o:p></o:p></i></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"; font-size: 10.0pt;">Jude
Watson,<i> The 39 Clues: Unstoppable:
Nowhere to Run<o:p></o:p></i></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0.0001pt;">
<span style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"; font-size: 10.0pt;">Brian
Yansky,<i> Homicidal Aliens & Other
Disappointments<o:p></o:p></i></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0.0001pt;">
<span style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"; font-size: 10.0pt;">Gabrielle
Zevin<i>, Birthright: In the Age of Love and
Chocolate <o:p></o:p></i></span></div>
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What a lineup for Texas families to enjoy with their children. Way to go, 2013 Texas Book Festival!</div>
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Carmen Oliverhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03561190413516068339noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8544170529265259339.post-8737089730782100522013-08-29T07:49:00.001-07:002013-08-29T07:52:31.021-07:00ReaderKidZ Review - Books to Celebrate Back-to-SchoolIt's Thursday and we're almost knocking on the door of Labor Day weekend! As promised, I've reviewed several books to celebrate back-to-school over at<a href="http://www.readerkidz.com/"> ReaderKidZ</a> today and I hope you'll stop by and check them out. Click <a href="http://www.readerkidz.com/2013/08/29/a-few-gems-celebrating-back-to-school/">HERE</a>.<br />
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg_LTf0UMbYhszaU5nWpGftSW0LhSyLkp81N_gb_-jeWtRaD0S3ZzBm2EyD0KEE4JpK8IG9IilLIhHIB7TefZF23GK5ynxhg5X5eKd2YVfAhtvAWaeOaF_vIIkeviPkaTfYhk8tYlL1OeLw/s1600/Rufus_Goes_to_School.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="313" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg_LTf0UMbYhszaU5nWpGftSW0LhSyLkp81N_gb_-jeWtRaD0S3ZzBm2EyD0KEE4JpK8IG9IilLIhHIB7TefZF23GK5ynxhg5X5eKd2YVfAhtvAWaeOaF_vIIkeviPkaTfYhk8tYlL1OeLw/s320/Rufus_Goes_to_School.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Rufus Goes to School by Kim Griswell, illustrated by Valeri Gorbachev<br />
(<a href="http://www.charlesbridge.com/">Charlesbridge</a>, 2013)</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
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And don't stop there! <a href="http://www.readerkidz.com/">ReaderKidZ</a> is geared to fostering a love of reading in the ages K-5 so don't be shy, go ahead and explore the website. You're sure to find new favorites and timeless classics. Haven't you already fallen in love with the pig above and his curlicue tail! <br />
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If you're not too busy, drop me a line at <a href="http://www.readerkidz.com/">ReaderKidZ</a> or comment on my blog and let me know what you think of the recommendations. <br />
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Have a wonderful Labor Day weekend! Carmen Oliverhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03561190413516068339noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8544170529265259339.post-7409719869975616152013-08-16T09:51:00.000-07:002013-08-16T09:51:32.287-07:00Picture Book Review: The Cat with Seven Names<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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It's August. The end of summer is on its way but you wouldn't know it from the radiating heat here in Texas. Still it's time to get ready for back-to-school. New shoes. New supplies. New books to uncover.<br />
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I'm kicking off the last lazy days of summer with <i>The Cat with Seven Names</i> by <a href="http://www.charlesbridge.com/contributorinfo.cfm?ContribID=30">Tony Johnston</a>, illustrated by <a href="http://www.studiogoodwinsturges.com/christine-devanier-bookks.html">Christine Davenier</a> (<a href="http://www.charlesbridge.com/">Charlesbridge</a>, Aug 2013). It's just the kind of book you want to curl up and read when the clouds roll in and cover the plains. I love the watercolor illustrations splashed across the pages in sunburst yellows, sky-blues, and autumn reds and the mellow hues of springtime sprinkled in. Turns out illustrator Davenier lives in my favorite city Paris, France and close to where my <a href="http://www.henandink.com/">agent Erzsi Deak</a> resides, too.<br />
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Johnston introduces us to a stray cat who romps through an urban neighborhood making new friends. Every neighbor has a name for the rogue tomcat and almost everyone feeds the full figured male except the homeless man who can't feed himself. Tacos, tuna fish, Big Mac's. Oh, my! Of course, like every good picture book, Johnston saves the best for last when she brings the community together to save the cat and back into the hands of his rightful owner. It's a good thing our hero had nine lives and even better that's he's introduced the neighborhood to new friends. It turns out the homeless man and the old man have a war in common and the senor, mom, daughter, and librarian love books. Who doesn't, right?<br />
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<i>The Cat with Seven Names </i>is perfect for all you readers who adore furry friends and those who just want to be entertained with an endearing tail. I mean, tale. For ages 5+.<br />
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Also you might want to check out my upcoming post at <a href="http://www.readerkidz.com/">ReaderKidZ</a> on August, 29th, 2013 for some new back-to-school book reviews. There's going to be something there for everyone!<br />
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Happy reading!Carmen Oliverhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03561190413516068339noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8544170529265259339.post-28041299897110810202013-06-29T05:05:00.000-07:002013-06-29T05:05:00.007-07:00Book Review - Poison by Bridget ZinnI don't normally blog about young adult literature on my blog NOT because I don't love reading it but because I write for younger readers who read picture books, chapter books, early readers and middle grade novels. But every once in awhile a book comes along that I feel is a cross-over to those upper elementary readers and a book that is done so well that it just has to be mentioned and that book happens to be debut author <a href="http://www.bridgetzinn.com/">Bridget Zinn's</a> <i>Poison </i>(Hyperion, 2013).<br />
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Bridget was a librarian, author, and lover of good books and she died far too early at the age of 33 from colon cancer and never got to see youth enjoying her book. But her family, friends, publisher and agent have worked hard to make sure that her dream of being an author and sharing stories didn't die too and released <i>Poison</i> this past spring. To learn more about Bridget and how you can spread the word about her debut YA novel visit her website <a href="http://www.bridgetzinn.com/help/index.php">here:</a><br />
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I must confess I'm not a huge lover of fantasy but I LOVE a good story filled with mischief, mayhem, romance, good vs. evil, and mystery and <i>Poison</i> delivered all of that and then some. So go ahead and read the jacket flap below and meet me on the other side of these paragraphs.<br />
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<b>Jacket flap:</b><br />
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<i id="yui_3_7_2_1_1372505182280_2287">“Sixteen-year-old Kyra, a highly skilled potions master, is the only one who knows that her kingdom is on the verge of destruction—which means she is the only one who can save it. With no other choice, Kyra decides to do what she does best: poison the kingdom’s future ruler, who also happens to be her best friend.</i></div>
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<i id="yui_3_7_2_1_1372505182280_2290">But, for the first time ever, her poisoned dart…misses.</i></div>
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<i id="yui_3_7_2_1_1372505182280_2292">Now a fugitive instead of a hero, Kyra is caught in a game of hide-and-seek with the King’s Army and her potioner ex-boyfriend, Hal. At least she’s not alone. She’s armed with her vital potions, a too-cute piglet, and Fred, the charming adventurer she can’t stop thinking about. Kyra is determined to get herself a second chance (at murder), but will she be able to find and defeat the princess before Hal and the army find her?</i>”</div>
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Don't you want to run out to your nearest library or book store and grab a copy? I recently had an author friend nominate this book for me for the <a href="http://www.ala.org/awardsgrants/william-c-morris-debut-ya-award">William C. Morris debut YA</a> award because I feel it's classic, timeless, storytelling at its best!<br />
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<span style="background-color: white; font-family: 'Times New Roman', serif; font-size: 16px;"><a href="http://www.bridgetzinn.com/">Bridget Zinn</a> has created a host of diverse and eclectic characters and a world of mystery, romance and intrigue in the Kingdom of Mohr. With page-turning suspense, readers are caught up with Kyra’s struggle to do what’s right and wrestling with the moral dilemma of taking a life to save the lives of many. To make matters worse, the person she must murder is near and dear to her heart, a confident and friend. The only real friend she’s ever known. Her inner conflict is fraught with additional complexities when she learns a truth about herself that thrusts her into a world of evil and consorting with criminal masterminds. Will this secret destroy her or will it make her stronger? She must learn to trust her instincts and believe in herself and at the same time, open her heart and trust the one man she can never have. Or can she? </span><br />
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<span style="background-color: white; font-family: 'Times New Roman', serif; font-size: 16px;">Strong themes of loyalty, friendship, good vs evil, trust and believing in yourself are well-developed and the main character’s growth over the course of the novel is satisfying and authentic. Zinn’s debut is fantastical with rich characters and a fast-moving plot. Antagonists are well-defined and Zinn carries us to the end of the novel by trying to figure out who is really behind the sinister plot to destroy the kingdom of Mohr. Language and description paint exquisite scenes and this YA is also appropriate for upper elementary ages who are eager to read beyond their reading level. Zinn shows readers you don’t need sex and racy language to tell a great YA story. </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Times New Roman, serif;">Here's a wonderful article written by Alexis Burgling in Publishers's Weekly <a href="http://www.publishersweekly.com/pw/by-topic/international/international-book-news/article/56328-promoting-a-late-author-s-debut-novel-poison-by-bridget-zinn.html">Promoting a Late Author's Debut Novel: "Poison" by Bridget Zinn</a> and New York Times bestselling author<a href="http://www.cynthialeitichsmith.com/"> Cynthia Leitich Smith</a> has a guest post by Bridget's friend and critique partner<a href="http://www.emkokie.com/"> E. M. Kokie</a>, click<a href="http://cynthialeitichsmith.blogspot.com/2013/03/new-voice-em-kokie-on-bridget-zinn.html"> here</a> to read it.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Times New Roman, serif;">Happy summer reading friends!</span><br />
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<span style="background-color: white; font-family: 'Times New Roman', serif; font-size: 16px;"><br /></span>Carmen Oliverhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03561190413516068339noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8544170529265259339.post-38011031669235723412013-02-26T05:46:00.000-08:002013-02-26T05:46:28.037-08:00Author Interview: Leslie Helakoski<br />
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I'm thrilled to invite my friend author/illustrator <a href="http://www.helakoskibooks.com/">Leslie Helakoski</a> back to my blog. Not only is Leslie an award-winning author/illustrator but she is also the Co-Regional Advisor of the<a href="http://www.scbwi.org/"> SCBWI </a><a href="http://kidsbooklink.org/">Michigan chapter </a>and she's part of the team that has orchestrated the <a href="http://www.regonline.com/wwmwconference">Mid Wild, Wild West 2013 SCBWI Multi-State Conference in Fort Wayne, Indiana</a> from May 3 - 5, 2013.<br />
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Today, we're here to celebrate her latest picture book <a href="http://www.indiebound.org/book/9781590789339"><i>Doggone Feet!</i> </a>(<a href="http://www.boydsmillspress.com/">Boyds Mills Press,</a> Mar 1, 2013) which is SO doggone cute! Congratulations, Leslie!<br />
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What was the inspiration behind this story? And the path to publication?<br />
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<span style="color: #b45f06;">A couple of years ago, I saw a tapestry hanging in a shop
with two dogs sitting under a table. I went back to my room and started writing
about the dog’s point of view. I grew up with dogs around the table, so I was
familiar with their behavior. But raising my own family with a dog under the
table at mealtime gave me a new perspective. We always laughed at how the dog
knew where to position herself for the most tidbits. Even though I thought this
was a brilliant relatable idea, it was a tricky sell. I didn’t think I wanted
to illustrate with all the perspective involved in portraying life under the
table. So it was initially sent out with only the text. Several publishers
passed it by thinking it was limited visually because of the setting being
under a table throughout. But I could imagine it being done—I could see it in my
head. Finally, I decided to illustrate a scene or two myself to show how it
could be done. A couple of artist friends convinced me that the perspective
could be distorted and that what I was doing was working. As soon as my agent
sent it out with art it was picked up.</span><br />
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<i>Doggone Feet!</i> is told from the dog’s perspective in rhyme
and the language is toe-tapping, read-a-loud fun! I’ve heard it’s very
difficult to write in rhyme especially when it comes to revision. Do you
approach the revision process differently when you’re revising in rhyme as
opposed to prose?</div>
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<span style="color: #b45f06;">The revision process is not really different for me
though it does take even longer than usual. I revise the story content over and
over. Then I revise the rhyme over and over. But I love the revision process. I
like when I have the security of a strong story idea and I just have to play
with the words until I get it smoothed out.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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As your picture book career continues to build, is it
easier or harder to sell a book? Does being more established help or hinder?<o:p></o:p></div>
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<span style="color: #b45f06;">I think it’s still difficult to get a book idea past a
marketing team these days as they are not always willing to take risks on a
book that might be a bit different. But I feel lucky that I do have books out
that have sold well because it does make it easier to get an editor’s
attention.</span><o:p></o:p></div>
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How do you find a balance between the
promotional/marketing/business side of being an author/illustrator and the
creative/inventive/artistic side of your job?<o:p></o:p></div>
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<span style="color: #b45f06;">Balance? I’m tipping over on one leg most of the time.
This year I’ve decided to devote more time to marketing than I have in the
past. Making myself take time to market and promote is hard for me because it’s
not really where I want to spend my time. It’s hard to ignore the fact that
social media makes a difference, so I have taken two months to set up signings,
blog posts and to create a library story kit that will be available on my website
preceding the launch of this book. I’ve also created a book trailer. Some of the marketing and planning is fun but I can’t
wait to get back to actually writing.</span></div>
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<o:p> </o:p>What do you think makes a successful picture book? </div>
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<span style="color: #b45f06;">It’s
such a mystery sometimes what the public latches on to. Sometimes, I don’t get
it at all. But when I do ‘get’ it, it’s usually a book with humor on a
universal theme, wording that surprises me, and art I find fun and
well-designed.</span></div>
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Where do you see yourself in ten years from now? What are
you currently working on? What can readers look forward to next?</div>
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<span style="color: #b45f06;">I’d like to be
saying something profound and very funny about creating children’s books.It
will probably take me ten years to think of something.</span></div>
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<span style="color: #b45f06;">Right now I’m working on sketches and layouts for <i>Big
Pigs</i>, which will be released in the spring of 2014. I just got back a 7 page
editorial letter on rough sketches, so I have a lot to do. I like this part so
I don’t want to have to squeeze it in.</span></div>
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<span style="color: #b45f06;">I have a couple of other ideas percolating for picture
books. I may even venture into self-publishing an idea that my editor says
marketing will not get behind. Authors have other options these days, which is
both scary and exciting!</span></div>
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To see all of <a href="http://www.helakoskibooks.com/">Leslie's books</a> visit her website and make sure you check back after her March 1st launch to download the story kit that accompanies <i>Doggone Feet!</i> To read another interview with Leslie, including the release of <i>Fair Cow</i>, click<a href="http://carmenoliver.livejournal.com/tag/leslie%20helakoski"> HERE.</a></div>
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Thanks, Leslie!! I foresee another doggone award-winner with this book!</div>
<br />Carmen Oliverhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03561190413516068339noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8544170529265259339.post-50421888592501882392013-01-23T06:19:00.000-08:002013-01-23T06:29:05.415-08:00Author Interview: Liz Garton Scanlon<br />
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<span style="color: #e69138;">It’s not every day I welcome a bestselling author and poet to
my blog so I’m beyond thrilled that <a href="http://www.lizgartonscanlon.com/">Liz Garton Scanlon</a> has stopped by to
discuss her latest picture book <a href="http://www.indiebound.org/book/9781442402874"><i>Happy Birthday, Bunny!</i></a> with us. She’s a prolific picture book author and some
of her highly acclaimed books include <i>All the World,</i> <i>A Sock is a Pocket for
Your Toes</i> and <i>Think Big</i>. When she’s not writing or teaching or visiting
schools, she’s busy with her girls making art, sharing quiet time with her
loving hubby or finding a home for an abandoned animal. Thanks for making time
in your busy schedule to chat with us! </span><o:p></o:p></div>
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<a href="http://www.indiebound.org/book/9781442402874">Happy Birthday, Bunny!</a><span style="color: #e36c0a;"> Illustrated by </span><a href="http://graegin.com/">Stephanie Graegin</a><span style="color: #e36c0a;">
(Beach Lane Books, Jan 2013) invites readers into an adorable family of rabbits
as they celebrate Bunny’s birthday. Birthdays are such a special part of a
child’s life, a day they look forward to and treasure all year. What were
birthdays like for you as a child? Did you tap into your childhood as you
created the story? And how do the Scanlons celebrate birthdays today? Any
traditions carried forward from your childhood?</span></div>
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<span style="color: #6aa84f;">I remember my birthdays being happy
when I was little – my mom was very good at making special events extra special.
This was back in the day when cakes were homemade, and mine were always
beautiful. My birthday is in the spring so one year I even had a bunny cake –
maybe that’s where I first felt the tickles of this book!<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="color: #6aa84f;">I’ve always tried to make my
daughters’ birthdays special, too. For a number of years, we made piñatas in
the weeks leading up to the big day. Often, our papier mache was so strong that
not even a dad with a bat could break it open! <o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="color: #6aa84f;">But even best-laid birthday plans
can go awry. I grew up in the mountains and my “spring” birthday was often
interrupted by a late season blizzard. My oldest daughter’s September birthday
often sees record-breaking heat. And my youngest daughter was so sick on her 2<sup>nd</sup>
birthday that we practically had to skip the whole thing. Plus, birthday
parties sometimes require patience, etiquette and sharing skills well beyond
what the birthday boy or girl is truly up to. I think it’s those things that
really inspired this book for me. Birthdays are full of expectation – sometimes
so much so that they’re a little overwhelming for the guest of honor. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="color: #e36c0a; mso-themecolor: accent6; mso-themeshade: 191;">You skillfully unveil the inquisitive nature of a child in
choosing a question and answer structure for this book, did the story start out
this way or did it evolve over many drafts? <o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="color: #6aa84f;">Even my very first draft was in
question/answer format (though LOTS of the specific questions and answers later
changed). I’ve never written a piece using this structure before, but it worked
because of that sense of birthday overwhelm I was just talking about. We bring so
much energy to birthdays, but little ones – turning 1 or 2 or 4 or 5 – must be SO confused. They don’t know
the traditions, the rituals, the rules. What would happen, I wondered, if one
of them just asked? And we answered?</span><span style="color: blue;"><o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjN1Mh689zyPIlex1lwGNnMFX7mwDPIWpMMHWzftq2Vxi5torQZzQe8u8LHnkKRe4JsAurz5kWu-kmwy29ZEsPGy3R2cfGkteyF9v_2eICN-NUA47BV8NJCS9psWR3_6gxVd1brvRQ8wj2v/s1600/DSC01644.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjN1Mh689zyPIlex1lwGNnMFX7mwDPIWpMMHWzftq2Vxi5torQZzQe8u8LHnkKRe4JsAurz5kWu-kmwy29ZEsPGy3R2cfGkteyF9v_2eICN-NUA47BV8NJCS9psWR3_6gxVd1brvRQ8wj2v/s320/DSC01644.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Liz and I in 2008 at the Hill Country Book Festival</td></tr>
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<span style="color: #e36c0a;">At what stage did you see </span><a href="http://graegin.com/">Stephanie Graegin’s</a><span style="color: #e36c0a;"> art for the
book and were there any surprises?</span></div>
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<span style="color: #6aa84f;">I saw some of Stephanie’s sketches
relatively early on and I adored them. But, I was surprised, once the final art
came along, how much MORE I loved it with color. Her palette is so rich and
creamy, and every inch of the book is awash in color – from the endpapers on. I
feel very lucky to have been paired with her and her beautiful work. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="color: #6aa84f;">Here’s one other fun thing to share
about Stephanie’s art. Her animals were so endearing – so perfect – that we changed
the title for them! The book was originally called HAPPY BIRTHDAY, BABY! but
once those animals came to life, our editor suggested changing it to HAPPY
BIRTHDAY, BUNNY! and I’m so glad we did.</span></div>
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<span style="color: #e36c0a;">You’ve just returned from a fabulous vacation with your family,
will this latest adventure spawn any future stories? Can you share a favorite
memory from your trip?</span></div>
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<span style="color: #6aa84f;">We just spent a month traveling
around Asia – specifically China, Laos and Thailand. I hope a story might
emerge from the experiences we had, but there are no guarantees. I work with a
very independent muse <span style="font-family: Wingdings;">J</span>.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="color: #6aa84f;">There <i>is</i> a really interesting tradition of haggling for goods in
developing countries – my kids find it fascinating and a little off-putting.
The key is to be gracious but straight-up. The artisans are quite good at
balancing those, and with a little practice you can mirror them. I’ll bet
there’s a story in there somewhere, don’t you think? <o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="color: #6aa84f;">As for a favorite memory, wow.
That’s like asking if I have a favorite book. We loved every place we went,
everything we did, and nearly all the food we tried! I think the best part of the whole thing was
just being together as a family. Our girls are getting older and are off living
their own lives more and more, so to have so many uninterrupted days together (and
nights, crammed into little guesthouse dorms!), that’s something I’ll treasure
forever. </span><span style="color: blue;"><o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="color: #e36c0a; mso-themecolor: accent6; mso-themeshade: 191;">The book officially released on January 15<sup>th, </sup>and
a release party is planned, please share all the juicy details for readers. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="color: #6aa84f;">I’ll be at <a href="http://www.bookpeople.com/event/liz-garton-scanlon-happy-birthday-bunny">BookPeople in Austin,Texas, this Saturday, January 26, at 2:00 p.m</a>. Think “birthday party meets
storytime”: bunnies, balloons, cake! Come one and all…</span><span style="color: blue;"><o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="color: #e69138;">Thanks, Liz </span><o:p></o:p></div>
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<span style="color: #6aa84f;">Thank you, Carmen, for having me.
It’s been a treat!</span><span style="color: blue;"><o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="color: #b45f06;">To read more advice from Liz, click <a href="http://henandinkbytes.com/2012/11/16/picture-book-advice-from-the-17th-texas-book-festival-part-ii-language-serves-the-story/">HERE</a> to read highlights from her panel at the 17th Texas Book Festival on the <a href="http://www.henandink.com/">Hen & Ink Literary Studio</a> blog.</span></div>
<br />Carmen Oliverhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03561190413516068339noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8544170529265259339.post-61035956477362338912013-01-14T05:42:00.000-08:002013-01-14T05:42:35.268-08:00Monet Paints A Day & Nonfiction MondayI'm participating in <a href="http://asuen.com/blog/?page_id=27">Nonfiction Monday</a> with the breathtaking <i><a href="http://www.indiebound.org/book/9781580892407">Monet Paints A Day</a></i> by <a href="http://www.juliedanneberg.com/">Julie Danneburg,</a> illustrated by <a href="http://www.caitlinheimerl.com/">Caitlin Heimerl</a> (<a href="http://www.charlesbridge.com/">Charlesbridge, 2012)</a>. This week's Nonfiction Monday is hosted by Travis Jonker at <a href="http://100scopenotes.com/">100 ScopeNotes.</a><br />
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I was first introduced to Julie Danneburg's work with the book <i><a href="http://www.indiebound.org/book/9781580890618">First Day Jitters</a></i>, illustrated by <a href="http://judyloveillustration.com/">Judith Dufour Love</a>, the perfect companion for anyone starting school or the first day at a new school! It's delightfully funny and engaging with the ideal surprise ending. If you missed reading it, visit your library for a copy or pick up the book from your favorite indie bookstore. It's worth finding!<br />
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So I'm not the least bit surprised to be entertained and carried away in Danneburg's rendition of a day in the life of Claude Monet while he was vacationing in Étretat, France in 1885 with <i>Monet Paints A Day</i>. It's by far one of my favorite nonfiction books of 2012, and I'm happy to see it honored by the<a href="http://www.slj.com/2013/01/awards/jacqueline-woodsons-each-kindness-wins-2013-charlotte-zolotow-award/"> 2013 Zolotow Award committee</a><a href="http://www.slj.com/2013/01/awards/jacqueline-woodsons-each-kindness-wins-2013-charlotte-zolotow-award/"> </a>as Highly Commended.<br />
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To quote Danneburg from the book, "Like a string of ducklings," we follow Claude Monet and a "gaggle of children" with canvases, paint box and palette as he leaves his hotel ready to paint the day. Danneburg takes us on a journey zigzagging along cliff paths and trudging across a rocky beach to reach the strip of sand where Monet paints <a href="http://www.claudemonetgallery.org/The-Manneport--Etretat.html">The Manneport</a> along with many more scenes. Like the illustrations, her prose is art and the author's note and instructions on painting techniques at the back of the book are rich with educational details, an additional gift for the reader to delve deeper. Sprinkled throughout the book are Monet's letters and words to his fiancee, Alice <span style="font-family: inherit;"><span style="font-size: 11pt; line-height: 115%;">Hoschedé</span> in </span>which he wrote about his painting progress and his frustrations at capturing the scene before the light changed.<br />
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<i>The rumbling waves explode a warning at my feet, but I can't stop painting. Not now. "Faster, faster, only a few more minutes to catch this light," I mutter to myself.</i></div>
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It's storytelling at its finest as Danneburg places us on that beach with brush in hand, waves lapping at our feet and a broken canvas in the end. The entire book is an album of art, the illustrations masterful, emotional and personal using an extraordinary palette of colors similar to Monet's own brushstrokes. I highly recommend this book for your library, classroom or studio.</div>
Carmen Oliverhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03561190413516068339noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8544170529265259339.post-73111362601828674772012-12-07T05:51:00.000-08:002012-12-07T05:51:16.042-08:00Winner of picture book Oh, Nuts!Congratulations <a href="http://caryncaldwell.com/">Caryn Caldwell</a> on winning the giveaway for the picture book <i><a href="http://www.indiebound.org/book/9781599904665">Oh, Nuts!</a></i> by <a href="http://www.tammisauer.com/">Tammi Sauer</a> and <a href="http://www.dankrall.com/">Dan Krall</a>!<br />
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The book is on its way to be enjoyed by you and your family!! Hooray!!<br />
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Thanks to everyone who participated in the giveaway. If you missed the review of Oh, Nuts! on <a href="http://www.readerkidz.com/">ReaderKidZ</a>, click <a href="http://www.readerkidz.com/2012/11/27/oh-nuts/">HERE</a> to read it.<br />
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<br />Carmen Oliverhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03561190413516068339noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8544170529265259339.post-3738493111221647942012-11-24T08:38:00.000-08:002012-11-24T08:38:13.133-08:00Thankful for Picture BooksEach Thanksgiving I'm reminded of all the wonderful things to be thankful for (family, friends, health, community) and this season is no different, but I want to add to my list this year and say I'm thankful for picture books and the joy they brought to me as a child, the joy they've brought to me as a parent/educator and the joys they've brought my children. I'm also thankful for all the writers and illustrators who work tirelessly to craft the best stories for children. Who battle self-doubt and at times sheer frustration to find the right words to tell the best story. Bravo!<br />
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To honor the joy I have for the picture book, I want to highlight two posts today. The first one is by my author/illustrator friend and critique partner <a href="http://www.dontate.com/">Don Tate</a>. Click<a href="http://picturebookmonth.com/2012/11/why-picture-books-are-important-by-don-tate/"> HERE </a>to read the post at <a href="http://www.picturebookmonth.com/">PictureBookMonth</a> and the story he uses to illustrate the importance of picture books.<br />
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Secondly, I want to highlight a joint writing post with my agent Erzsi Deàk of <a href="http://www.henandink.com/">Hen & Ink Literary Studio</a> as we discussed new and old picture book favorites, many which included bear characters hence the title of the post "A Bearful of Stories." Click <a href="http://henandinkblots.wordpress.com/2012/11/23/a-bearful-of-stories/">HERE</a> to read the post and leave a comment at Hen & Inkblots letting us know your favorite picture book and/or character. Bear vs. Mouse. Penguin vs. Chicken. It'll be fun to tally the results and see which books come out on top!<br />
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Blessings of the season to you and your family. Happy reading!<br />
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Carmen Oliverhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03561190413516068339noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8544170529265259339.post-56393655224531749592012-11-16T05:12:00.001-08:002012-11-16T05:12:41.728-08:00Part II - Picture Book Posts for Hen and Ink LiteraryGood morning!<br />
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Click <a href="http://henandinkblots.wordpress.com/2012/11/16/picture-book-advice-from-the-17th-texas-book-festival-part-ii-language-serves-the-story/">HERE</a> for Part II of my recap from the <a href="http://www.texasbookfestival.org/">17th Texas Book Festival</a> on picture book advice at <a href="http://henandinkblots.wordpress.com/">Hen & inkblots.</a> This post <b>Language Serves the Story</b> highlights advice from authors <a href="http://www.lizgartonscanlon.com/">Liz Garton Scanlon</a> and <a href="http://www.candacefleming.com/">Candace Fleming</a>.<br />
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I hope you enjoy! Let me know what resonates? Do you have any revision tricks up your sleeve? How many times do you revise to make art?<br />
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Happy Friday!Carmen Oliverhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03561190413516068339noreply@blogger.com0