A New Published Author or Artist -- Your Child!

Thank you to everyone who participated on my book blog tour for The Sid Series. I had a blast and I hope you learned how to do a successful virtual book tour. I bet you now have some great ideas for promoting your book online. See? Online promotion really is easy and fun!

I gave away The Sid Series Coloring Book to everyone who purchased the printed book during my blog tour, but if you purchased the book and didn't get the coloring book, be sure to let me know and I'll send it right away.

Now for information about my Children's Art Showcase!

This will be an interactive event in which I will need some joint venture partners (JVPs) to help me promote it on Twitter, Facebook, and through your email list. For your help, you will get a free copy of the finished e-book compiling all the submissions received. You may use it as a gift or giveaway to help promote your own children's book or product.

This is NOT a contest. I don't believe children should be judged or rejected for their heart-felt creativity. Instead, every effort will be recognized and everyone will be a winner. Every participant will get a free copy of the e-book.

We are looking for original work by children (ages 3 through 8) that demonstrates a lesson he or she has learned by reading The Sid Series.

First, you have to be familiar with the lessons taught in The Sid Series. If you are unable to purchase a copy of my book, please let me know which lesson your child wants to illustrated, and I'll send you a PDF of that story. The widget below may spark an idea also.



Second, share your story by drawing, painting, sketching, or writing about how you learned or have experienced a Sid lesson in your life.

Third, you will sign a release that allows me to use your child's entry to create an e-book
and give it away to everyone who wants it. I will also post every story and piece of art turned in here on this blog.

Fourth, since an e-book is an electronic book, you will need to send me your child's writing as a Word document. You may need a scanner to convert your child's art into a jpg.

Here's a list of Sid lessons:

• Sid’s Fairy ~ Learning about Inner Guidance teaches children to meditate and sense the still small voice inside.
• A Stormy Adventure ~ Facing the Fear of Storms. How have you overcome your fear of storms or the fear of something else?
• The Pirate’s Treasure ~ Finding Treasure Within. What is the greatest treasure and where is it found? How did you find it?
• You Can Be! ~ Understanding Destiny and Making Choices. What would you like to be when you grow up?
• Ask Your Body ~ Understanding the Body’s Needs. Do you know what your body needs to be healthy? How are you helping meet your body’s needs?
• A Ghost in My Closet ~ Communicating with Angels. Have you ever seen or heard a ghost or angel? What did he or she say or do? Do you hear your inner guidance?
• A Powerful Potion ~ The Power of Imagination. Do you believe in magic? Have you ever witnessed a miracle?
• My Friend’s Skin ~ Accepting and Appreciating Diversity. Do you have friends of a race different than your own? What do you like best about that person? What have you done to show love to someone who is not like you?
• Puppy Love ~ Dealing with the Death of a Pet. Has a pet or someone you love died? What does it mean to die? Tell about your experience.
• Old Things New ~ Learning About Recycling. Do you recycle? What are you doing to keep the earth clean and safe?
• Always Be Honest ~ Learning to Tell the Truth. Have you ever told a lie? How did it make you feel? How did you resolve the situation?
• Making Room for Brother ~ Coping with Family Changes. Has your family gone through a big change? Perhaps a new person came into your life, or maybe someone moved out of your home. Tell or draw what happened.

Start working on your art or writing now. You may send it to me between December 26, 2009 and January 16, 2010.

Children's Art Showcase for The Sid Series

I am looking for original work by children (ages 3 through 9) that demonstrates a lesson he or she has learned by reading The Sid Series ~ A Collection of Holistic Stories for Children.

The Sid Series is a collection of body-mind-spirit stories that focus on life skills such as overcoming fear, helping others, being true to one’s self, following inner guidance, caring for the body, having self-worth, appreciating diversity, dealing with change, accepting pet death, being environmentally conscious, and using spiritual gifts. http://TheSidSeries.com

Spending time with my grandson has opened communication about some pretty “adult” topics that many parents and teachers are hesitant to discuss with children. By sharing the stories in The Sid Series and through this art showcase, I hope to reinforce and enhance these and other life lessons.

So, more about the art showcase. This is NOT a contest. I don't believe children should be judged or rejected for their heart-felt creativity. Instead, every effort will be recognized and everyone's work will be included in an e-book that can be given away to anyone who wants it. Every participant will get a free copy of the e-book we create as an artistic community. I will also post here on this blog every story and piece of art turned in.

First, you have to be familiar with the lessons taught in The Sid Series. If you are unable to purchase a copy of my book, please let me know which lesson your child wants to illustrate or write about, and I'll send you a PDF of that story.

Here's a list of Sid lessons:

• Sid’s Fairy ~ Learning about Inner Guidance teaches children to meditate and sense the small voice of guidance inside.
• A Stormy Adventure ~ Facing the Fear of Storms. How have you overcome your fear of storms or the fear of something else?
• The Pirate’s Treasure ~ Finding Treasure Within. What is the greatest treasure and where is it found? How did you find it?
• You Can Be! ~ Understanding Destiny and Making Choices. What would you like to be when you grow up?
• Ask Your Body ~ Understanding the Body’s Needs. Do you know what your body needs to be healthy? How are you helping meet your body’s needs?
• A Ghost in My Closet ~ Communicating with Angels. Have you ever seen or heard a ghost or angel? What did he or she say or do? Do you hear your inner guidance?
• A Powerful Potion ~ The Power of Imagination. Do you believe in magic? Have you ever witnessed a miracle?
• My Friend’s Skin ~ Accepting and Appreciating Diversity. Do you have friends of a race different than your own? What do you like best about that person? What have you done to show love to someone who is not like you?
• Puppy Love ~ Dealing with the Death of a Pet. Has a pet or someone you love died? What does it mean to die? Tell about your experience.
• Old Things New ~ Learning About Recycling. Do you recycle? What are you doing to keep the earth clean and safe?
• Always Be Honest ~ Learning to Tell the Truth. Have you ever told a lie? How did it make you feel? How did you resolve the situation?
• Making Room for Brother ~ Coping with Family Changes. Has your family gone through a big change? Perhaps a new person came into your life, or maybe someone moved out of your home. Tell or draw what happened.

Second, have your child share a story by drawing, painting, sketching, or writing about how he or she learned or experienced a Sid lesson. Adults are welcome to help the child type his or her own story, but please don’t do the artwork for them. I want the work to be an expression of the child’s true self and for parents to expand communication with their children.

Third, you will be asked to sign a release that allows me to use your child's entry to create an e-book and post it on my blog.

Fourth, since an e-book is an electronic book, you will need to send me your child's writing as a Word document. You will need a scanner to convert your child's art into a jpg that can be emailed.

This showcase is a great way to learn what’s on your child’s mind and offer supportive answers for their questions. I hope you will enjoy sharing with us the lessons your kids teach you.

Kids, start working on your art or writing now. You may send it to me between December 26, 2009 and January 25, 2010. I plan to have the e-book ready February 5 so you can give it as a Valentine’s gift!

Poetry Corner December 2009

When I Grow Up

At 6 years old I was running wild
Totin’ my six-guns cowboy style,
Bustin’ wild broncos, riding the range all day.
Goin’ after bad guys,
Huntin’ them down.
Me and my posse cleaning up this town.
When I grow up it’s gonna always be this way.

Nothing comes short of living out a dream,
Believing in the future and what it can bring,
Hoping for some wisdom and a little luck.
I can have it all when I grow up.

At 18 I was sure I knew it all,
Riding so high that I could never fall.
No one could tell me what I could or couldn’t do.
Looking back I see that I was just a kid.
I can’t believe half the stupid things I did,
But I still believed
And somehow made it through.

Now that I’m older and my life’s on track
I can see the kid who always had my back
Hiding in the shadows, trying hard to keep up,
Waiting and wondering just what happened to
The kind of trust and wanderlust that he once knew.
Did I lose it all when I grew up?

Nothing comes short of living out a dream,
Believing in the future and what it can bring,
Hoping for some wisdom and a little luck.
I can have it all when I grow up.

Dennis S Martin

Website: http://www.iwritesome.com/
Blog: http://www.iwritesome.blogspot.com/
Storefront: http://www.lulu.com/dsmartin


A New Day Dawns

Dreams of yesterday bathed in mists of time
Are regarded most dear in memory of mine.
Here heart's beat is soothed by worn path of stone,
And nostalgic thoughts calm soul's weary, weathered bones.

Rapture blankets thoughts of former days,
Paves way for heirloom dreams which will n'er fade away.
Love's inspiration, now forever mine
Feels strong heart's beating in perfect timing with thine.

Build a future new with mortar and stone.
Dome and arch blotting out memories I once owned.
Vintage moments dear held close in my heart.
Rapture lifts to Heavens as final sorrows part!

Sheila Bowyer Kline
Poetess of Multiplicity


Mary, Miss Mary

Her sweetheart cut down by a Yankee gun.
They called her an old maid at twenty-one.
She knew she could be alone all her life.
And who would want an old maid as a wife?

Dearie, my dearie, why did you leave me?
The tears and the pain, I’ll never be free.
Why did they take you? And what did they do?
Why didn’t somebody just kill me too?

Mary, Miss Mary
Please don’t be so sad.
It’s a brand new day.
And life’s not so bad.

In the country, at a little barn dance.
She gave a smile and then he passed a glance.
He was just eighteen, but he was a man.
Come with me now, babe. I won’t ask again.

He brought two horses, she rode at his side.
Old justice of the peace made her his bride.
They just kept on riding, on through the night.
Hunkered down and slept, in the morning light.

Mary, Miss Mary
You make my heart glad.
Finest, sweetest thing
That I’ve ever had.

Cattle up from Texas, prairie rail head.
They set up a stove, they lay down a bed.
So wild and crazy, happy life they led.

Mary, Sweet Mary
Just look in my eyes.
Lady, they saved you
Just to be my prize.

Jan Bossing © Joelton, Tennessee 2009

IN THE AFTER-LIFE

By Irene Brodsky, author of Poetry Unplugged

In the after-life,
you will find a new life
filled with loved ones
from a day gone by.

Just knock on the Lord's door
No need to fear.
He will welcome you
and make you right at home.

Rejoice!
So much to talk about
when you arrive in the after-life.
Lots of hugs & kisses too.

Look! There is Grandma Sarah
and Uncle Gene is waving to you!
Go to them
It's o.k.!

A wonderful world of no pain
All is well
Everyone is happy
In the after-life.


Unaware Vibrations

Mental Enzymes Drip
Through Layers Of Consciousness
Coating Life
With Inexhaustible Energy

Being A Painter
I Become A Painting
Expressing Reality
On An Easel
Of Linear Time

Drops Of Vibrant Colors
Seep Through Floors
Of Awareness
Capturing Mountains In A Mystic Mist
While Oceans Laugh At Apodictic
Sunsets

Earthly Shadows Cling To
Speckled Ceremonious Dreams
That Cover Eternal Blueprints
With Pulsating Multi-Colored
Contradictions

Drenched In A Bubbling Foam
My Brush Highlights
Ecliptic Moons
As I Cover Consciousness
With A Thin Film
That Reeks
With Unaware
Vibrations

Hal Manogue
Poet, Author and Essayist
Short Sleeves Insights
Short Sleeves Spirit Songs
Short Sleeves A Book for Friends
http://www.shortsleeves.net/
http://halmanogue.blogspot.com/

Growing Pains: Chapter One


She stained the table when bleaching her hair – MY new table!
My lovely, lovely, maple table bought with my first Chicago wage.

Pale and interesting was its look, the sheen that first attracted me.
Yankee boys said at twenty-two I was “pale and interesting” too.

“Limey” I was called back then, the year JFK was shot in my lunch
break. When I got back to the office, everyone, even Republicans, sobbed.

A table. My prize possession, apart from the more-than-usually-pricey shoes.
They were tall taliswomen of my new, Over-There, Over-The-Pond life.

When I had announced my “gap year” before gap years were more akin to
World Tours, Dad was fine: “Go, girl, enjoy,” and he meant it. Mum scowled.

For almost a month she zipped her lip, and glowered at me. The scowl &
silence spoke volumes – nice girls from Oldham didn’t toddle away to the U.S. of A.

From Ringway I was supposed to go, and we had a farewell “do” the night
before. But my flight was cancelled. So off back home to hide a while.

Silly when I think of it today – “good form” dictated invisibility, a rigid
code. What a relief when I got to Uncle Joe’s – not over-paid, but over there.

I got signed up to work for the Mafia as they were “going legit.”. Book-keeper
accountants were “all the rage”. Comptometers & pencils deadlier than guns.

Writer & Copyright-holder: C.J. Heyworth July 2009



A New Day Dawns

Choosing Between Querying an Agent and a Publisher

By Yvonne Perry

My friend and mentor, Carolyn Howard-Johnson, is my “go-to” person when it comes to querying publishers. She has a terrific newsletter called Sharing with Writers in which she shares answers to questions asked by her readers. Recently, I had a client ask me a question that I felt would be better answered by an expert, so I referred the question to Carolyn. She shared her answer in her newsletter and I thought it only fitting that I also share this helpful information with my readers.

Here is the question:

“If an author must choose between pitching a query to a list of agents or to a list of publisher, which should she focus on? agents or publishers?”

And, here is Carolyn’s answer:

Yvonne, it depends on the title and the experience of the author. If she starts pitching to publishers without knowing much about how to determine what is best for her book, she may not get what's best for her book. That's because there are just so darn many ways to publish these days—combinations of subsidy (or partner) and POD presses and traditional, etc. She may not know what to look for.

Of course, pitching to both agents and publishers holds other dangers. That is avoiding the scam artists who abound in both areas of the publishing business. Avoid any agent who charges a reading fee or say they will represent the book if you buy other services first, like editing. The manuscript may well need editing and that advice might need to be taken, but the agent should not be making money from the service as either a referral fee or because the editing is a major part of her business.

Now, putting all that aside, it will depend on the factors like:

• Is this a genre that will require an agent to sell it to the publisher?
  
• Is this a title that will benefit from having a high-powered agent who has the contacts to go for a movie contract or other commercial prospects? Agents can sometimes even get a bidding war going.
  
• How much time does the author want to spend? It can take a long time to land the right agent and then more time for that agent to sell the book.
  
• Is this a title that will appeal to a small publisher? Your client should know that her proposals/query letters will not be read by big publishing houses in any case. She NEEDS an agent for that. So, if she is hoping for Knopf or Simon and Shuster, she will have to have an agent.

Carolyn Howard-Johnson
Website: http://www.howtodoitfrugally.com/
E-mail: HoJoNews@aol.com

 

Book with a View December 2009

Book Title: The Drummer
Author: Abe Rosa
ISBN: 978-1-4327-4509-7
Publisher: OutskirtsPress.com
Genre and Target Market: fiction; Christian; thriller
Publication Date: 2009
Book Review by: Sarah Moore

There is a variety of ways through which an author can present a message through his work. In some instances, the lesson being taught is a blatant one that is plainly on display as the primary focus on the book. Other times, the important theme may be more subtle and only strike the reader after the book is closed and reflected on in its entirety. With the third approach, the author can make his message an imperative component of the story but integrate it with an accompanying plot that is compelling on its own merits. The last approach was the one taken by author Abe Rosa in his new release The Drummer. Rosa creates an action-packed sequence of events as the backdrop for sharing his faith with his readers, and certainly leaves people with some serious questions to ponder.

The Drummer was created as one avenue through which author Abe Rosa could share his Christian beliefs with others. However, this is far from your typical “how and why you should get saved” book. Rosa paints a picture of a time in America in which Christianity is banned by the government under the threat of death. Angela Reyes is a superstar drummer with the band MUDROCKET who learns that her mother has been arrested for distributing Christian materials. While not a believer in Christ herself, Angela answers the call when recruited by the United Movement to Advance Christianity (UMAC) to save her mother’s life. As the mission progresses and her own life is threatened, Angela’s long-held cynicism towards the faith of her parents is tested.

Author Abe Rosa does a great job of creating a fast-paced plot that brings the reader into the lives and fears of his characters. While a compact work at only forty-six pages, The Drummer feels like a lengthier novel as there is so much action on every page. The pace that Rosa takes with the story mimics the speed with which Angela and the others at UMAC must work to save her mother’s life and this compels the reader to move forward until reaching the end. The high-energy nature of the novel, as well as its inclusion of a rock band and a young heroine who displays a relatable attitude toward religion, will be particularly appealing to adolescent and collegiate readers.

There is no doubt that The Drummer is a controversial book that is perfect for sparking discussion. Abe Rosa describes a country that some in the United States believe could become a frightening reality as the debates over religious liberties and the role of government in our lives are increasingly finding their way into our evening news. However, to promote the idea that the president in the novel should be eliminated along with other government officials who support the ban on Christianity will be quite shocking to some readers. This book almost requires time for a group debriefing, as I am sure the opinions on its content will be strong and varied.

Whether you are a Christian who echoes the sentiment of the author, someone who is curious about faith and the possible future it faces, or just a reader who enjoys a good thriller, you will take away something from reading The Drummer. Author Abe Rosa has written a book that is sure to be discussed and remembered by all who encounter it.

Queen Vernita Visits the Blue Ice Mountains
Author: Dawn Menge
ISBN: 978-1-4327-1169-6
Publisher: OutskirtsPress.com, 2009
Genre and Target Market: children; fiction
Reviewer: Sarah Moore for WITS

In my capacity as someone who enjoys a profession in the writing and publishing world, I am always excited when an author whose work I have enjoyed in the past comes back with another book for me to review. As the mom of a three-year-old girl who loves her bedtime stories, I am particularly thrilled that author Dawn Menge has gifted all of us with another wonderful tale of Queen Vernita and her friends, who teach young readers through their daily adventures. In her first book, Queen Vernita’s Visitors, Dawn Menge introduced us to her title character and the decision she makes to have a different friend visit every month of the year. Menge continues this concept in her new release, Queen Vernita Visits the Blue Ice Mountains, and improves on a first book that itself is worthy of much praise.

Queen Vernita invites her friends back for another year of fun, but this time the destination is the Blue Ice Mountains. Queen Vernita and her guests use this beautiful location to learn interesting details about science and nature. As a former school teacher, I am a strong advocate of any learning tool that gets kids thinking about the world around them. Every page offers fun facts about a specific animal or place that I am sure will be educational to both parents and their children alike. On Tuesday in March, Christopher is there to learn that when ice melts and breaks away from glaciers, it is called calving. On Saturday in July, Queen Vernita and Susanna learn that brown bears can weigh up to 900 pounds. And, on Thursday in November, the two friends discover that sponges in the ocean are sessile invertebrates. Queen Vernita Visits the Blue Ice Mountains is well-researched and packed with information that will fascinate young readers.

Every aspect of the book is expertly designed to be engaging and educational for children. The colors on each page capture a child’s imagination, with the dominant use of bold, primary tones in the detailed illustrations and the text for each month printed on a different muted color. We all know that if the pictures grab a child’s attention, interest in the words that surround them will more likely follow. Menge also effectively uses the important learning tool of repetition to teach children the days of the week, with each month featuring a different fact for Monday through Sunday. By the time you reach December, you may find that your child is calling out the months before you have a chance to read them. The fact that the author is currently working towards her PhD in Curriculum and Instruction is evident throughout the book’s format, word choice, and graphics.

Queen Vernita Visits the Blue Ice Mountains is a beautiful book that I am excited to add to my daughter’s collection. Even the youngest child will learn details about plants and animals that she will be proud to share with others while improving her calendar skills along the way. Perhaps even more importantly, readers will be presented with the idea that friendship is to be valued and openly appreciated. Queen Vernita is genuinely excited for each visitor to arrive and enjoys every moment of every month with a dear friend. What could be a better lesson to learn? Whether or not you have already had the pleasure of reading Queen Vernita’s Visitors, I strongly recommend that you discover the joy within Dawn Menge’s second offering. I only hope that Queen Vernita has more plans for her guests and, therefore, more books to come!

The Great Mrs. Claus
Chris A. Shoemaker
Claus Family Christmas, LLC (2009)
ISBN 9780979818660
Reviewed by Madeline McElroy (age 8) for Reader Views Kids

This story starts off with a man named Sparky, a very tall elf, who builds toys for Santa Claus. Sparky has one niece and one nephew. At the beginning of the book he tells them lots of stories about Santa when he was young - about the time he tried to make reindeer fly and when on his first take-off, his first suit ripped. You won't believe how Santa met Miss Suzie, later to be, Mrs.

This is a silly story about Santa Claus and his wife. There are also many poems throughout the story about the way Santa feels about Mrs. Claus. He feels lucky to have her. He shares a secret about a special kiss at the end of the story.

This is a very large book with a lot of good and colorful artwork. It took me almost an hour to read it and find all of the hidden places on the map. Sparky had a surprise for his niece also. He would often give her clues, but would never tell her what it was that he was making until it was finished. I thought this was a fun book to read. This would be a book I would read again.

There are two very large “picture searches” that you can search for places like where Santa lived, toy stores, bakeries, candy stores and a lot more! There are puzzles and great things to find and see in The Great Mrs. Clause by Chris A. Shoemaker. It comes with a candy caned striped magnified glass to find all the places on the map. This was my favorite part of this book!

Secrets of a Christmas Box
Steven Hornby
Ecky Thump Books (2009)
ISBN 9780981588308
Reviewed by Bobbie Wilson (age 8) for Reader View Kids

I think “Secrets of a Christmas Box” would make a perfect bedtime-story book for the month of December, starting on December the first with twenty-four chapters and it’s full of Christmas. This book is as important to the Christmas season as the story of the “Grinch Who Stole Christmas.” Every chapter is an adventure that makes me want to jump right into the next.

The story opens with Mr. Ferguson and the children, Aaron and Emma, returning home from Christmas shopping, to the amazement of their mother, with a huge Christmas tree. Then the tree is brought into the house, placed in the corner and trimmed with all the treasured decorations, including the special Christmas box.

Larry the snowman and his friend Tinsel come to life as soon as night falls and the house becomes quiet. The adventure starts developing with all the many decorations as they come to life. The two old friends have all sorts of adventures from the top of the tree to the bottom and then around the back to the dark side.

“Secrets of a Christmas Box” by Steven Hornby is a fun book and I’m going to tell my friends about it. Mr. Hornby's writing kept my attention through the book.

The Sid Series ~ A Collection of Holistic Books for Children

Author: Yvonne Perry
ISBN: 978-0982572207
Publisher: Write On! (Writers in the Sky), 2009

A must have book for every child! Bravo to Yvonne Perry for writing this book to help children through challenging issues in a gentle, kind and spiritual way! From dealing with the death of a pet, learning inner guidance and understanding destiny and making choices (to name just a few) these stories are tender, beautiful lessons a parent or grandparent can share with the children in their lives. This book is truly a treasure to help every child see themselves as a gift, and help them grow into the person they were meant to be." ~ Barbara Techel, Author of Frankie, the Walk 'N Roll Dog Book Series
"I had a chance recently to read through The Sid Series, a book of stories for kids (3 - 9 mostly) and have to say I was quite impressed. This is more than a series of cute little stories; it is a series of life lessons that every parent or grandparent can relate to on some level. It is a "read to" series that your child or grandchild will ask for again and again. I highly recommend it." ~ Dennis S. Martin
Read more reviews on Amazon
Praying 101 for Kids and Teens
Author: Dottie Randazzo

Publisher: Creative Dreaming, 2007
ISBN: 978-0615147253
Reviewed by Yvonne Perry
Where was this book when I was a kid? This prayer book could have changed the course of my life! Fortunately is never too late to learn how to pray effectively and with right motives. An adult could benefit from using the prayers in this book, but it is geared toward children and teenagers. The prayers in this book are some that any parent would love to hear their child pray.

What parent wouldn’t want their child to pray for good grades, true friends, good judgment, good health for self and others, safety on the Internet, or to have better communication with parents, and wisdom to resolve conflicts? Dottie puts it on the level with kids and teens using examples of things teens might want or ask for. Sounds great so far, but it gets even better.

Addressing such issues as pimples, braces, glasses, lost pets, popularity, bad hair days, passing a test, being the new kid at school, winning at sports, waking up on time, and getting a date for prom night, Praying 101 for Kids and Teens meets the everyday needs for this unique age group. But there are more serious issues that kids face and need divine help in resolving. This book has a specific prayer for kids dealing with anorexia/eating habits, low self-esteem, anxiety or panic attacks, drug addiction, step-family issues, breaking up with a girl/boyfriend, gang involvement, divorcing parents, abusive relationships, and teen pregnancy. Each simple and practical entry can be read as a prayer to manifest the highest and best outcome in any situation.

Who should kids to pray to? God, Goddess, Higher Power, Lord, Father, Masters of the Universe, Saint, Angels—it doesn’t matter. This book is non-denominational. I could see Christian or Pagan parents recommending this book to their kids. I plan to give a copy to my nine-year-old grandson. Why wait until a child has problems to teach him how to manage life from a spiritual vantage point?

The book is jammed-packed with powerful prayers to help kids find courage to stand up for themselves, and wisdom to know when and how their prayers are being answered.

Word Trippers: The Ultimate Source for Choosing the Perfect Word When It Really Matters
By Barbara McNichol

As Mark Twain said, “The difference between the almost right word and the right word is really a large matter–it’s the difference between the lightning bug and the lightning.”

That’s why choosing the exact right word is important. For example, do you know when to use “affect” versus “effect” in your writing? Or “further” versus “farther”? Or “famous” versus “notorious”?

If you’re not sure, Word Trippers is the perfect reference ebook for you. This ebook contains 49 pages of 300+ pairings of words in alphabetical order and searchable on your computer, so they’re easy to find. Each word pairing is explained, then used in sentences to easily show how each is properly used, like this:

Affect, effect – “Affect” is a verb meaning to change or influence. “Your quick action affects (influences) the outcome.” “Affect” is also a noun to mean feeling, emotion, or emotional response. “During his grief process, my client displayed an uncharacteristically flat affect.” “Effect” is a verb meaning to bring about, to cause. “You can effect (bring about) a change easily.” “Effect” is also a noun meaning result or outcome. “The story has a desired effect.”

Whether you’re writing for business or crafting the next great American novel, this Word Trippers ebook will lead you to choosing the correct word when it really matters. It’s been created by expert nonfiction editor Barbara McNichol.

This reviewer highly recommends Word Trippers as an excellent reference tool, and gives it a four-star rating.

Rewriting the Past for More Compelling Fiction

by Norman German

While researching my third novel, A Savage Wisdom, I discovered that in real life Toni Jo Henry was not a sympathetic character on which I could build a true crime novel. At that point I became interested in “rewinding” her life, recreating her as an ingénue deceived into high-class prostitution. A Savage Wisdom thus became a study in deception and an exploration of identity development.

Put to death in 1942 for the 1940 Valentine’s Day murder of a Houston businessman, Toni Jo Henry is still the only woman ever executed in Louisiana’s electric chair.

Toni Jo’s story has intrigued me since childhood, when I would read about her in special features in the Lake Charles American Press, which tantalized readers with reproductions of her leggy portrait as a coddled death-row inmate.

When I decided to “novelize” her life, my four-year research led me to the newspaper archive room, legal documents, and Toni Jo’s gravesite.

First, I read dozens of newspaper articles on the murder, capture, trial, and execution. To create the dense, “textured” world of a novel, I immersed myself in magazines and popular histories from World War I to 1963 (JFK’s assassination).

From antique stores, I bought ten copies of magazines from the period, including Life, Look, Collier’s, and Saturday Evening Post. I read every article and studied every ad in order to realistically recreate the clothing, slang, and pop-culture icons of the era.

Two indispensable histories were Only Yesterday: An Informal History of the 1920s and Since Yesterday: The 1930s in America, both by Frederick Lewis Allen. However, my most valuable source was written by a hobbyist historian. New Orleans in the Thirties, by Mary Lou Widmer, includes hundreds of photographs chronicling the interior décor, men’s and women’s clothing styles, cuisine, and social customs reproduced in the novel.

For the 1950s, I ordered legendary journalist David Halberstam’s The Fifties. From Time magazine’s special issue “Time Capsule: 1950, The Year in Review,” I became familiar with everything from automobile models and colors to whiskey brands.

The authoritative source for the trial was the Southern Reporter, a series containing summaries of regional court cases—dull reading, indeed, but it led me back to the newspaper accounts describing the various parties in the courtroom. For example, during Toni Jo’s three trials, members of the courtroom audience often made slitting motions across their throats.

For years, I had heard the rumor that Toni Jo’s grave was not marked by a headstone for fear of vandalism. I went on my scavenger hunt in the Orange Grove-Graceland Cemetery on Broad Street, thinking to walk in concentric squares until I found her tombstone or proved the rumor valid.

I discovered that the name of Louisiana’s most notorious murderess had been misspelled. Annie Beatrice McQuiston, carved as “Anna,” adopted the name “Toni Jo” as a prostitute and became Toni Jo Henry upon marrying Claude “Cowboy” Henry, himself a murderer on the lam.

Norman German is Professor of English at Southeastern Louisiana University, Fiction Editor for Louisiana Literature, and Winner of the Deep South Writers Contest for No Other World. Visit the author at www.asavagewisdom.com.

Calling for Submissions for January 2010 E-zine

It's time for me to start putting together the next fantastic and information-filled e-zine for January 2010. That means I need you to send me your articles, contest announcements, and brags to be included in the next issue. We have more than enough book reviews, but if I have room for them, I'll include them.

Read our guidelines for submittal here. Remember, the better your piece is written, the better attention and credibility it receives--and the less editing I have to do.

Editor's Corner December 2009

I find it unbelievable how fast this year has gone by. A new year and a new decade will be here before we know it. I won't say anything about goals for the new year. Instead, I'll let my article about Allison Maslan's book launch and contest speak to you about HOW to start making positive changes to create the best decade of your life. Take a peek at her awesome Blast Off! Countdown Contest, too.

Yes, 2009 has been a terrific year for me personally as well as for Writers in the Sky Creative Writing Services. I've been blessed with four new grandsons and many wonderful clients AND I published The Sid Series ~ A Collection of Holistic Stories for Children, which *ahem* by the way would make a great holiday gift for a child or teacher! Life is good!

The Sid Series book tour is still going on, so if you missed the first half, go to http://tinyurl.com/SidTour and catch up on all the great articles about how and why I wrote the book, how I published it, and how I'm marketing it. Also see videos and flipbooks, listen to audios, and read a stories about Sidney's mystical gifts. The stops for the next two weeks are posted there as well. If you purchased The Sid Series and did not get your free coloring book, please let me know and I'll send it to you right away.
Any author who would like to see a good example of how to operate a virtual blog tour will not want to miss the instructional posts on my book marketing blog: http://onlinepromotionmadeeasy.com/.

Beginning December 26, I'll be sponsoring a children's art showcase. I am looking for original work by children (ages 3 through 9) that demonstrates a lesson learned by reading The Sid Series. This is NOT a contest. I don't believe children should be judged or rejected for their heart-felt creativity. Instead, every effort will be recognized and everyone's work will be included in an e-book . Every participant will get a free copy of the e-book we create as an artistic community. Spending time with my grandson has provided an opportunity to talk about some pretty “adult” topics—some that many parents and teachers are hesitant to discuss with children. By sharing the stories in The Sid Series through this art showcase, I hope to reinforce and enhance these and other life lessons, and help open lines of communication between children and adults. I will post more information on our writing blog: http://yvonneperry.blogspot.com/.

Thank you, Barbara, for proofreading this month's newsletter. Thank you to all our readers who contribute material for this publication. Sarah Moore and Barbara Milbourn are the WITS writers and editors who assist authors and publishers with getting books ready to go to press. Those we work with become part of the WITS network and we are pleased to feature their books on our site.

If someone forwarded this e-zine to you or if you happened to have stumbled upon this Web page, you may get your own subscription for free!

Blast Off a New Year With Allison Maslan!

by Yvonne Perry

We are fast approaching the end of 2009, and with it many people will feel sad when they look over what they didn’t accomplish in the past year. However, this is a great time to explore positive changes that can take us on a journey of personal growth in 2010. How would you like to create your best decade ever?

I would like to share a book with you by author Allison Maslan. It is called Blast Off! The Surefire Success Plan To Launch Your Dreams Into Reality and it is truly a journey of personal and professional rebirth.

The message of the book, which comes out on Amazon on January 19, 2010 is for anyone wanting to create powerful changes in ALL areas of life—at any age. Blast Off! weaves together motivational stories, secret strategies and specific, easy-to-follow action steps to help people tap into their life purpose and manifest their goals and dreams from business to health to finding the love of your life.

Those who buy book Allison's book on January 19 will receive more than 20 wonderful gifts being offered by mind-body-spirit-success professionals worldwide.

Here is what a few readers of Allison’s book have to say about Blast Off!

"Blast Off!" gives the what and how to create the personal and professional life of your dreams.” ~ MARCI SHIMOFF New York Times Best Selling Author, Happy For No Reason and featured speaker in The Secret

“After reading this book, you will not only know for certain that you can achieve your heart’s desire, you will be equipped with the tools make it happen. Allison is brilliant at teaching others to tap into the deepest part of themselves and then helping them create their individual formula for success. I highly recommend this book.” ~ ERNEST D. CHU, spiritual community leader and counselor, and author of Soul Currency

“Here is your chance to stop dreaming… and start making something great happen in your life. [Blast Off!] is your desktop and bedside table companion for life!” ~ MARK LEBLANC, author of Growing Your Business!

 “Allison Maslan’s powerful book, Blast Off! gives the most direct path in inventing the career and personal life of your dreams. Her easy-to-follow flight plan is a profound mix of inspiration, passion, and success in the real world.” ~ DIGBY DIEHL, New York Times and London Times bestselling author of over 30 books, literary correspondent ABC-TV’s Good Morning America, founding editor Los Angeles Times Book Review

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To read all about the book and the 20+ other great gifts that range from e-courses, to music, to photography, to guided meditations just go to Allison’s bonus page: http://www.myblastoff.com/booklaunch/

I hope you will join me in celebrating Allison’s book by purchasing her book and collecting all the free goodies available during the launch. Just put your name and email on her page, and Allison will send you a “countdown reminder” so you make sure you don’t miss the launch date. That way you will be sure to be able to take advantage of all those great self-development and inspirational gifts AND enjoy Allison’s great new book, Blast Off! The Surefire Success Plan To Launch Your Dreams Into Reality. It’s a whole package that can help you discover the real you, change your career or find a soul mate this coming year!

I am also very excited to announce the contest and prizes for Allison's book release.

From now until January 19, 2010, Allison will be hosting an exciting contest to personally guide someone to the most exciting chapter of their life. The winner of this contest will work directly with Allison for a complete life and business makeover! She will mentor and guide you to create a fabulous new life and career.

Allison will fly the winner out to beautiful San Diego, California for the first few one-on-one coaching sessions in person. The rest will take place by Skype or phone from whatever part of the world you live in. (If the winner is from Southern California, all sessions can be in person). 

• Are you or someone you know ready for a life and career amp-up or transformation?
•  Do you want to start your own business, but have no idea what to do or how to make it happen?  
• Are you ready to find the relationship of your dreams?
• Do you need more passion in your life, but have no idea how to find it?

Signing up is easy.

Step 1: Register here www.myblastoff.com/booklaunch for the book launch reminder because on launch day, January 19th, when you buy Allison's new book on Amazon, you will receive thousands of dollars in celebratory bonus gifts from her amazing team of authors, speakers, and coaches. (You do not have to enter the contest to receive your free bonus gifts.)

 Step 2: To enter the contest, go to the book launch page, scroll down, and click on the blue contest box and enter to win your Free Life and Career Makeover worth over $5,000. (Although a new life is rather priceless.) You have from today until January 4 to send in your video and tell us why you feel you, your family member or friend should win.

And here is another really cool part of the contest. Viewers can vote online and on Face-book for their choice of the best candidate to win a one-on-one Blast Off Life and Business Makeover Package with Allison. How awesome is that?

Network with Us December 2009

We had an overabundance of articles and book reviews this month. Those that didn't make it in time for this issue will be posted at http://writersinthesky.blogspot.com.

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Just in time for the holidays The Sid Series makes a great gift for children, parents, and teachers! Each story focuses on life skills such as environmental awareness, helping others, being true to one’s self, overcoming fear, and following inner guidance.

This collection of body-mind-spirit stories highlights unique lessons about love, acceptance, self-worth, caring for the body, diversity, facing fears, dealing with change, experiencing the death of a pet, and using spiritual gifts. http://thesidseries.com/.

If you purchased The Sid Series and did not get your free coloring book, please let me know and I'll send it to you right away.

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Reflections, Memories Past by Joseph A. Zapalac (ISBN 978-1-4327-2419-1) was published by Outskirts Press March 28, 2009 and is available on Amazon.com. Here is a review by Vada Wolter:

Reflections-Memories Past represents poetry that's been written with homespun values of love and friendship—values that continue to hold true, governing traditional ways of existence. These long-held traditions are expressed in eloquent definitive poetry or prose, representing yesteryears memories that remain forever treasured in hearts even today. This is a very touching book that captured my heart. I loved the cover and the way it gives a sense of yesteryear. I was moved by the way the author expressed his thoughts, feelings, and memories of his childhood. I felt a sweet innocence about the simplicity of country living. This book is great for gift giving or a great read anytime. I look forward to reading more books by this author.

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If you are thinking of a gift with enduring value, why not consider giving a print book that inspires and informs? What about a recently released historic audio CD book read by shipwreck survivors? Alive on the Andrea Doria! The Greatest Sea Rescue in History in print and audio will allow your friends to read the book before the movie is released. It will be popular for anyone who enjoys mystery, history, science, and Chicken Soup for the Soul-type survival stories. The print book was recognized for “excellence in writing and ability to tell a good story” from the New England book Festival. A Library Journal critique says about audio CD book: “the reading is heartfelt and personal.”

Download a FREE unabridged e-book version of the print book, just for buying the audio book. It’s like getting two books for the price of one! More exciting offerings at http://www.pierettesimpson.com/.

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The Dream Quest One Poetry & Writing Contest is open to anyone who loves expressing innermost thoughts and feelings into the beautiful art of poetry or to write a short story that is worth telling everyone! And to all who have the ability to dream. Write a poem or short story for a chance to win cash prizes. All works must be original. http://www.dreamquestone.com/.

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Don't suffer with book proposals. You can be a pro with an investment of only 20 minutes and 49 cents with Carolyn Howard-Johnson's Great First Impression Book Proposal Short on Amazon.com.

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Are you an author needing help with online book promotion? We offer a number of helpful marketing methods such as author interviews, book reviews, bios, media releases, article marketing, media kits, sell sheets, and podcasting and blogging services.

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Writers in the Sky offers ghostwriting and editing for books, e-books, biographies, and memoirs, as well as media releases, marketing copy, résumés, query letters, book proposals, and articles. See http://writersinthesky.com/.

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Sign up to get Sharing with Writers delivered to your e-mail inbox for free! There's always something educational and helpful to writers and authors.

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Creative Writing Help is a great source for inspiration and information on writing. Tracey posted a written question and answer interview with Yvonne Perry at http://www.creative-writing-help.com/.

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Learn to write in theta in Writing Down Your Soul: How to Activate and Listen to the Extraordinary Voice Within by Janet Conner. The author will be a guest on WITS Podcast in January.

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Any author who would like to see a good example of how to operate a virtual blog tour will not want to miss the instructional posts on my book marketing blog: http://onlinepromotionmadeeasy.com/.

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Register for Allison Maslan's book launch at http://www.myblastoff.com/booklaunch and download 25 great gifts with purchase on January 19.

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Join my Book Revision Course. Did you rough out a manuscript in NaNoWriMo? Or have you been working on something for a long time? Join me, Elizabeth Stark, published novelist and filmmaker, and my dynamic group of talented, supportive writers as we shape, hone and polish manuscripts into unforgettable books. Online and via telephone. http://elizabethstark.com/classes-and-editing-services/

Podcast Schedule December 2009

Listening to Writers in the Sky Podcast on a computer is easy. Just click this link: http://yvonneperry.blogspot.com/ and go to my blog. On the right sidebar there is a list of archived shows. Click on the interview you would like to hear and it will open a post that has a link to open the audio file. For information about being a guest on Writers in the Sky Podcast, see www.writersinthesky.com/writing-podcast.html

December 4

WITS author’s assistant Sarah Moore will sit down with Ed Benjamin to discuss his new book, Cash in on Obama’s $3 Trillion Spending Plan! The book details the many ways in which members of the general public can submit proposals for contracts and requests for grant money with the federal government. Mr. Benjamin has decades of proven success in writing contracts for the government and now shares his detailed advice with readers. In this interview, Ed Benjamin will be discussing his professional background, how he hopes readers will use the book, and the various possibilities for making money from the government.

December 11

Writers in the Sky welcomes back Dawn Menge to the podcast on December 11. She will be discussing her second children’s book, Queen Vernita Visits the Blue Ice Mountains. The first book, Queen Vernita’s Visitors, earned Dawn first place in the children’s category of the 2009 EVVY Awards. In the follow-up release, Queen Vernita takes her friends to various locations at which they learn about the beauty of nature while continuing to teach young readers important calendar skills. During the interview, Dawn will be sharing how she did the research for her book, what she hopes children will take away from the book, and what is in store next.

December 18

WITS owner Yvonne Perry has a conversation with Allison Maslan, a leading life and career coach to discuss Ms. Maslan’s new book, Blast Off! The Surefire Success Plan to Launch Your Dreams into Reality. In this book, readers will find the encouragement and skills they need to realize their professional and personal goals. Allison Maslan brings her twenty-five years of experience as an entrepreneur and a life coach to the plan she developed in Blast Off! Allison will be sharing how her own successes and failures contributed to the concepts in the book, how readers can use the material to improve their own lives, and how she is marketing her work. To get a launch reminder, learn more about Blast Off!, and enter Allison's contest, see http://www.myblastoff.com/booklaunch/.

December 25

Christmas Day brings the last podcast interview of 2009 when WITS welcomes Michael Thompson to discuss his new novel Blood Betrayal. This suspense novel focuses on the character, Dimitri Magnussen, and the possibility that he murdered his own young son during a hunting trip. During an investigation that involves Dimtri’s family and former commanding officer in the Special Forces, the psychology behind this man proves to be more complicated than it first appears. Michael Thompson brings his own background as a veteran of Operation Iraqi Freedom and experienced hunter to his first novel. He will be discussing what sparked his interest in writing, how his military experience contributed to the development of the novel, and what is in store next for this series of books.

December Podcasts Offer Interviews to Take Listeners through the Holiday Season

Writers in the Sky December Podcasts to Feature New Works of Fiction as Well as Books that Offer Advice for Greater Professional Success

Nashville, TN, November 24, 2009—The Writers in the Sky podcast will close out 2009 with four author interviews that offer a variety of topics for the listening audience. The month begins with a discussion about how the public can take advantage of the government’s spending plan through submitting their own proposals and grant requests. The next week brings a return guest to the podcast series, as an award-winning children’s author shares details about her new release. The month continues with a conversation that focuses on a plan for personal transformation and professional success. Finally, Christmas Day brings an interview with an author who will discuss the release of his first novel in what will be a suspense series.

One December 4, WITS author’s assistant Sarah Moore will sit down with Ed Benjamin to discuss his new book, Cash in on Obama’s $3 Trillion Spending Plan! The book details the many ways in which members of the general public can submit proposals for contracts and requests for grant money with the federal government. Mr. Benjamin has decades of proven success in writing contracts for the government and now shares his detailed advice with readers. In this interview, Ed Benajmin will be discussing his professional background, how he hopes readers will use the book, and the various possibilities for making money from the government. Click here to purchase Cash in on Obama’s $3 Trillion Spending Plan!

Writers in the Sky welcomes back Dawn Menge to the podcast on December 11. She will be discussing her second children’s book, Queen Vernita Visits the Blue Ice Mountains. This new release is the second in a series that features Queen Vernita. The first book, Queen Vernita’s Visitors, earned Dawn Menge First Place in the Children’s category of the 2009 EVVY Awards. In the follow-up release, Queen Vernita takes her friends to various locations at which they learn about the beauty of nature while continuing to teach young readers important calendar skills. During the interview, Dawn will be sharing how she did the research for her book, what she hopes children will take away from the book, and what is in store for Queen Vernita next. Click here to purchase Queen Vernita Visits the Blue Ice Mountains.

The podcast series continues on December 18 when WITS owner Yvonne Perry has a conversation with Allison Maslan, a leading life and career coach. They will be discussing Ms. Maslan’s new book Blast Off! The Surefire Success Plan to Launch Your Dreams into Reality. In this book, readers will find the encouragement and skills they need to realize their professional and personal goals. Allison Maslan brings her twenty-five years of experience as an entrepreneur and a life coach to the plan she developed in Blast Off! Allison will be sharing how her own successes and failures contributed to the concepts in the book, how readers can use the material to improve their own lives, and how she is marketing her work. Click here to purchase Blast Off! The Surefire Success Plan to Launch Your Dreams into Reality.

Christmas Day, December 25, brings the last podcast interview of the year for our listeners, when Writers in the Sky welcomes Michael Thompson to discuss his new novel Blood Betrayal. This suspense novel focuses on the character Dimitri Magnussen and the possibility that he murdered his own young son during a hunting trip. During an investigation that involves Dimtri’s family and former commanding officer in the Special Forces, the psychology behind this man proves to be more complicated than it first appears. Michael Thompson brings his own background as a veteran of Operation Iraqi Freedom and experienced hunter to his first novel. He will be discussing what sparked his interest in writing, how his military experience contributed to the development of the novel, and what is in store next for this series of books. Click here to purchase Blood Betrayal.

“I believe that we are bringing this year of podcasts to a close with a wonderful series of interviews,” shares Yvonne Perry, owner of Writers in the Sky Creative Writing Services, which produces the podcast. “All of the team members at Writers in the Sky wish our listeners a wonderful holiday season and we look forward to introducing you to even more great new writers in 2010.”

About Writers in the Sky: Writers in the Sky blog, podcast, and newsletter is a three-fold production filled with information about writing, publishing, and book publicity created by Yvonne Perry as part of Writers in the Sky Creative Writing Services (http://writersinthesky.com/).

Listening to Writers in the Sky Podcast on a computer is easy. Go to http://yvonneperry.blogspot.com/. On the right sidebar there is a list of archived shows. Click on the interview you would like to hear and it will open a post that has a link to the audio file.