Blog Tour: Pickle and Bree by Alison Reynolds + a Critique Giveaway and a Slush Pile pass!!!!

I am delighted to welcome my friend Alison Reynolds, author of numerous books including the wonderful: A new friend for Marmalade and of course the hugely popular Pickle and Bree series. 

We are the last stop in the blog tour, but you can jump back to the other hosts, to find out more about Alison's books.  Trust, me, there is some real gold to be read, so I hope you hop along.

 

 

Boomerang Books: Click to read

Pass it on: Click to read

 Creative Kids Tales: Click to read

Buzz Words: Click to read

Aussie Reviews Click to read

Just Write For Kids: Click to read

 

Let’s start with a little about Alison and her books.

  So Alison, tell us, how did you get the idea for Pickle and Bree? Did you pitch it to a publisher, or were you asked to write the series? This always puzzles me.

 

 

 

 I was fortunate to be commissioned to write this series. The publisher sent me an illustration of Pickle and Bree and asked, “Would you like to work with these characters?” I said “YES”. Previously, they had mentioned the possibility of me doing a series on manners for 4 – 8 years. I’ve already written quite a few series on manners. This is not something that I ever would have thought would become a bit of a speciality, but I actually do think manners help create a gentler, nicer world.

 

After brainstorming, how much does the original text change for a Pickle and Bree Story? 

 

 The gist of the original text stays the same, but the text does often change. I really enjoy this process of chipping away at the text. One of the amazing things for me when writing picture books is how important each word is. The editor will often point out something, then I think and think and come up with a new line. Unfailingly, this is always an improvement on the original text. The more Pickle and Bree books I write, the easier it is to dive back into their characters and the plot soon emerges.

 

Seeing the illustrations for the first time from Mikki Butterley, were you blown away? We certainly think they are exquisite!!! 

 

My first reaction was a gasp of disbelief. How does she do it? Whatever situation I come up with I never need to think will Mikki be able to illustrate this? She always can brilliantly. I also love the details she adds to her illustrations and how she creates such a complete world. I feel so fortunate to work with her!

 

Now you have two new books coming out by Five Mile Press to be released February 2017.

I am dying to get my hands on this one below for my little G starting school this year. Can you tell us about them?

 

The editor suggested I write a book about bullying. My 7 year old niece was staying with us, and said some girls bullied her by saying she wore pink runners and she didn’t like feeling different. This resonated with me. Some children wouldn’t care if somebody commented on their shoes, but others would. So the THE PLAYGROUND MEANIES arose where Pickle and Bree are spending a day outdoors with their good friend, Jason. They’re excited to explore the playground, and are even more excited about making some new friends―until they meet two little bears who are not very friendly at all! Pickle is puzzled when the meanies try to tease him about his big feet, because he knows they are big and he likes them that way. However, his sensitive friend, Jason, is upset by the meanies’comments. Pickle and Bree have to deal with the playground bullies.

My Review:

When Pickle and Bree and their friend Jason, meet two rambunctious koala bears in the playground, they don't quite know what to do.  Howard and Gracie begin poking fun at Jason's panda bear feet.

Pickle being a bear, offers them a slightly rude suggestion, but Bree encourages him not to be mean. 

They try ignoring Howard and Gracie, but they seem intent on making even bigger fun of Jason's big feet.  Pickle takes the matter in hand, as only a bear can with the most ferocious roar, but that doesn't really have the desired effect.  Howard and Gracie just high tail it out of there, returning later with a picnic of honey buns. Intent on continuing their meany ways, the koala bears find themselves in a spot of... well, what can I say, that would give it away.  When Jason steps in, literally to save the day, Howard and Gracie realise that different isn't always bad. It's what makes us special.  

I loved the resolution here, and the fact that all the way along, Bree encourages Pickle and Jason to find a solution, without retaliation.

The end pages sport a full page of Pickle and Bree's Guide to Good Deeds, which were just wonderful. Five practical ways that children can process what it means when people are being unkind, and strategies to help them see their way through it.

 I must admit, I did shed a tear on the fifth, knowing that my little girl is at this very moment attending her third full day of prep school.

I cannot wait to share this beautiful book with her teacher, as I know it will go along way in setting the tone for the years to come. Great for ages 4-8.

Brilliant story Alison and Mikki.

I give it 5 stars! 

Now onto the next one, take it away again Alison

THE BIG SNOW ADVENTURE explores why we should follow rules. Pickle and Bree are off for a holiday in the snow! Bree can’t wait to try skiing, and Pickle is excited about snowboarding — but Pickle and Bree are so enthusiastic that they forget they’re sharing the space with their friends. Pickle and Bree need to figure out how to have fun while making sure their friends have fun too.

 MY REVIEW:

Pickle and Bree are ready for a snow adventure, but it seems, neither of them have remembered their manners.  Pushing in line, ignoring the teacher's instruction, racing down the mountain collecting anyone on the way, and doing their level best to win regardless of anyone else.  When the two finally realise that their friends no longer want to play, they examine their actions, and try to make amends. 

I really enjoyed this one equally, as we see the shoe on the other foot.  Pickle and Bree being the ones to not follow the rules, and to suffer the consequences.  I loved this opposite take on the traditional way of imparting the story, which usually has the main character doing every right, and pointing out what others are doing wrong.  This really encourages children to examine their own behaviour, its impact on others and how to adjust according.

As per usual, we conclude with Pickle and Bree's Guide To Good Deeds,  where we learn five reasons why rules are there to be followed, and the consequences when they are ignored.

Another fantastic book, Alison and Mikki,

I give it 5 stars also!

Now, a little bit more about Alison. The way we met was through her generosity of spirit, and her desire to create an event for aspiring writers to meet the super star publishers of Australia.

Will you tell us a little about KidlitVic?

 

I love Melbourne and firmly believe that as a UNESCO City of Literature we needed an event in Melbourne where writers and illustrators of children’s and YA literature could meet with publishers. KidLitVic Meet the Publishers was established giving new, emerging and established writers and illustrators the opportunity to meet and hear from industry professionals about publishing children's and YA books in the current Australian market.

This year we are extremely proud to have 20 publishing professionals attending. With discussion panels of industry experts, the opportunity for a fifteen minute one-on-one manuscript or illustrator portfolio assessment with one of Australia's leading publishers, writing and illustration workshops and the chance to network with other creators, KidLitVic 2017 will kick-start, build, reinvigorate and strengthen your creative career.
 

For information head on over to Kid Lit Vic This year is completely sold out now, but I highly encourage anyone interested in gaining a foot into the Australian publishing industry, to check it out for next year. 

 

NOW FOR THE INCREDIBLE PRIZES!!!

 

BOOK GIVEWAYS!

Just leave a comment on any of the posts in the blog tour, comment on facebook or twitter or even email alrey@msn.com.au to win a copy of The Playground Meanies or The Big Snow Adventure.

 

JUMP THE SLUSH PILE IS BACK!

Win an opportunity for a children’s editor at The Five Mile Press to look at your picture book submission (strictly 500 words or less). Just comment on any of the posts in the blog tour and add initials JSP.

OR

Win a free picture book assessment by the author Alison Reynolds. Just comment on any of the posts in the blog tour and add the initials PB.

Remember the more you comment, the more chances you have to win.

 

TEDDY BEAR CONTEST FOR ALL AGES!

Win a print of Mikki Butterley’s fabulous artwork from one of these two books. Just send a photo or drawing of your favourite teddy to alrey@msn.com.au or upload to https://www.facebook.com/alison.reynolds.524 or Twitter @AlisonReynoldsa

Competitions close March 24^th and winners to be announced and contacted by March 31^st.

   Thank you so much for joining us Alison and I am looking forward so much for the release of your new books.

Be sure to stop by her website.

 Alison Reynolds

 

Sons of the Sphinx Blog Tour and Author Interview

Today I would like to welcome my good friend and publishing buddy, Cheryl Carpinello to the blog

Cheryl has a wealth of experience in INDIE PUBLISHING,
so I thought I would ask her a few questions.


1. How did you first get into writing?
 
An avid reader, writing was a natural progression for me. Also, before I taught, I worked as an editor/news writer for a couple of magazines in the Satellite Communications industry. I’d written several fictional pieces over the years, but didn’t tackle anything too ambitious until I retired from teaching in 2007. As a high school English teacher, I didn’t have a lot of spare time.


2. What is your motivation for writing?
 
As an educator, I’ve worked with all types of kids. While many may not see the value of being able to read and write fluently, educators and parents do. The tremendous influence of social media and technology in kids’ lives today doesn’t leave much room for reading. Add this to kids who aren’t good readers—ages 8 and up—and tend to shy away from reading, and society ends up to a huge number of adult non-readers. I hope my adventurous romps through the ancient and medieval worlds will entice these non-readers to pick up more books at a younger age.

3. How do you come up with your ideas?
 
All of my ideas come from my years in the classroom teaching Arthurian Legend and the stories/myths from the ancient worlds: Egypt, Greece, and Rome. In particular, the classics like The Iliad and The Odyssey. Kids love these time periods as is evidenced by the number of role-playing games set in these worlds.

4. Do you research your stories?
 
Yes, I do. A lot of my research was done in preparation for teaching particular units in high school. I also conduct research on the internet and use books/texts. I’ve been most fortunate in that, as of now, I have been able to spend time in Egypt and, more recently, in the United Kingdom doing my research first hand.

5. What is the most rewarding part of self publishing?
 
Probably the most rewarding part of self-publishing is seeing my final product published and knowing that it is the best that I and others could make it.

6. What is the most difficult part of self publishing?
 
Everything about self-publishing is difficult! As the writer, I am responsible for making sure that my writing is at its best, the editing is top-notch, the final formats are up to industry standards including the cover, and that the marketing of all my books is ongoing and productive. Unless an author makes a ton of money and/or has talented family/friends, all of those duties above take away valuable writing time.

7. What are you working on next?
 
Currently, I’m working on a sequel to Guinevere: On the Eve of Legend. I always meant for this to be a stand alone, but over the years, Cedwyn—Guinevere’s friend—has been pressing me to make him a knight. I finally gave in. Guinevere: At the Dawn of Legend—Cedwyn’s Story in the works. My projected date for publication was late fall 2015, but I’m realistically looking at early spring 2016.

8. What advice would you give to an aspiring author?
 
Perfect your craft. Writing doesn’t just get better; it needs constant work. That is a truism I told my students everyday. Keep writing and reading. It is imperative that you find a professional editor. Far too many books are out there in the public eye that haven’t been edited by a professional. Be proud of your work and make it your best.

9. Favourite food.
 
A smothered beef burrito with a margarita on the rocks.

10. If you could go anywhere, anytime, where would you go and what would you do?

I would like to travel the ancient worlds of Troy, Persia, Egypt, Greece, and Rome just to name a few. These ancient civilizations contributed so much to our modern world. It would be fascinating to actually see what daily life was like then and to interact with the people.

Thank you so much Cheryl for your insights and we have enjoyed your adventures.

  About The Book

TITLE – Sons of the Sphinx SERIES – The Quest Books AUTHOR – Cheryl Carpinello GENRE – YA Historical Time Travel PUBLICATION DATE – October 10, 2014 LENGTH (Pages/# Words) – 192/36,000 PUBLISHER – Beyond Today Educator COVER ARTIST – Bernistevens Design

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Two souls

Separated by three millennium

One with a gift that is more like a curse

One on an almost impossible quest

Destinies entwined; one seeks to find herself while the other seeks his lost queen. To succeed, the pair must right the injustices 3,000 years in the past.

Only together can they fulfill The Prophecy, but in the process they must defeat the Pharaoh Horemheb.

Dishonor and death are the fate of the defeated.

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BUY & TBR LINKS

AMAZON KINDLE US – AMAZON KINDLE CA – AMAZON KINDLE UK – AMAZON PAPERBACK – BARNES & NOBLES PAPERBACK – GOODREADS – SHELFARI

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CHARACTER BIOS

Rosa: Hi! I’m Rosa. I’m 15 years old and a sophomore in high school. I’m your typical teenager—well, almost. I don’t have many friends anymore, but it’s hard to blame the other kids. If I was them, I’d probably steer clear of me too, at least most of the time. No one is ever mean to me; I’ve grown up with most of them, and on my bad days, they try to ignore me. Wish I could do the same to those who talk to me. Mostly I just shake my head and carry on. It helps that I have a sarcastic sense of humor.

My daily life consists of trying to pass all my classes, getting a date for school dances, and dealing with Nana’s gift nearly every day while I try not to lose my mind.

Tut: My name is Nebkheperure Tutanhkame. I ascended the throne of Egypt upon the death of my father, Pharaoh Akhenaten. There has been much speculation in modern day on my death. My concern is finding the final resting place of my beloved queen, Ankhesenamun and making right that which was wronged centuries ago.

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EXCERPT 

Excerpt from Chapter 11 of Sons of the Sphinx by Cheryl Carpinello

A well-traveled dirt road leads back into the valley formed by the hills on either side. Although not high by my experience, rising up from the sandy floor, the Theban Hills are impressive. Jagged crevices run up and down the sides of the hills, and in many places, man-made square arches can be seen. The Tombs of the Pharaohs. I’m walking in the footsteps of an ancient people. How cool.
I hurry to catch up with him. A mistake, sweat stings my eyes and grit scrapes my cheek when I wipe my face. My shirt is sticking to me by the time I come even with him. Does Re never find a cloud to hide behind? Did I say Re? Now I’m starting to think as an Egyptian. Good grief. Must be the heat. There is no shade anywhere. Like a shimmering mirage on a hot highway, the heat rises in waves off the barren hillsides. No trees can withstand this burning furnace. The only shelter exists under the entrances to the tombs.
Tut hurries ahead, but I may never get here again, so I take my time. We pass one entrance, and I walk over closer to it. Heavy wooden doors covered in hieroglyphs bar the way. Ancient rope—rough, scratchy, and strong—twisted around the door handles and knotted tight, holds them closed. On the right door handle there is a clump of mud molded like those wax seals used on letters. It covers the handle and the rope. Symbols are pressed into it.
“Tut, what is this for and what does it say?”
He hurries over, curious.
“Why the rope and this lump of mud?”
“Lump of mud? Oh Roosa, you are looking at the Necropolis Seal placed here by the priests. That it is still here means that the tomb is intact. No one has entered since the burial.”
“Does the seal say whose tomb this is? Is it a pharaoh?”
“No, not a pharaoh. Here.” He points to a set of hieroglyphs. “These state that this is the tomb of the dignitary Ramose.” He pauses. “I remember hearing stories about him when I was young. He was the governor of Thebes during Thutmosis IV’s time.”
“Do all the tombs carry this seal?”
“Yes, but even in my reign, it was becoming difficult to keep the tombs sealed. Thieves continually broke in to steal the property of the dead.”
“Tomb robbers.”
“Yes. When they were caught, their hands were chopped off.”
I gasp at such horrible consequences.
“You are shocked. I understand that in your time, there does not exist an undisturbed tomb here.” He waves his hand around the entire valley. “Who are these people who think they have the right to touch a Pharaoh of Egypt, even a dead one? They disturb our sacred resting places and steal the items left for our journey into the afterlife. May they all be cursed along with their families.”
I stand beside him, my mouth agape. Up to now, Tut has been determined in his mission, angry at Horemheb, but he hasn’t lost his composure. Until now. I try to find words to soothe him.
“They only want the world to know about the pharaohs of ancient Egypt. How magnificent they were. How they lived.”
He turns on me. “You don’t learn about a people by stealing what is sacred to them. In my time and yours, they are nothing more than common tomb robbers!”
“Scholars have shared what they learned. They search for knowledge. I learned about you from the artifacts in the exhibit.”
“Harrumph! What do you and they know? Nothing. Nothing at all! All you do is seek the treasures and the gold to make yourselves rich.” He spits in the dirt. “You wouldn’t know wealth if you were buried in it. Tomb robbers, the whole lot.”
He stomps away almost at a run, propelled by his anger. I hurry to keep up with him. We round a bend and to the left a small path winds up a cliff and then disappears. His chest heaves with ragged breaths and he’s actually vibrating he’s so enraged.
“We aren’t all like that, you know.” I whisper, wanting to avoid a harsh response. “Some of us understand that true wealth comes from within, from one’s heart, from love for others, and from respect for family.” I pause. “Some of us do.”
He says nothing; he doesn’t turn to look at me, but his breathing slows; his fingers unclench.

 

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AUTHOR BIO

I am a retired high school English teacher. A devourer of books growing up, my profession introduced me to writings and authors from times long past. Through my studies and teaching, I fell in love with the Ancient and Medieval Worlds. Now, I hope to inspire young readers to read more through my Quest Books set in these worlds.

AUTHOR FOLLOW LINKS

AMAZON AUTHOR PAGE – WEBSITE – Main – WEBSITE – Shared

BLOG – FACEBOOK – TWITTER – GOOGLE+ – PINTEREST – GOODREADS – SHELFARI

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GIVEAWAY PRIZES

A $50 Amazon/PayPal GC

a Rafflecopter giveaway

This tour has been organized & hosted by

Kid Lit Blog Hop #51

Welcome to the 51st Kid Lit Blog Hop where we continue to develop a dynamic and engaged community of children's books bloggers, authors, publishers, and publicists. So, you are always more than welcome to join us by popping in a post and hopping around to meet some of your fellow Kid Lit bloggers and authors!

Happy Hopping everyone and enjoy the Hop!

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Today I have a few books to share with you, that came from our Christmas list.

 

 

Link

 

Description From Booktopia:

A laugh-aloud picture book celebrating nannas everywhere from a talented author and illustrator team.

Some nannas dress in pink when they jog around the track.

But my nanna is a ninja … so she dresses up in black.

All nannas are different.

But what if your nanna was really different?

What if your nanna was a ninja?

 

This fun, poetic picture book portrays the many different guises, faces and personalities that nannas can have and demonstrates the significance of their role in the modern family.

 

Our Thoughts:



Gigi loved this book from the first read. The rhyme is fantastic, and it is loads of fun to see a Nanny being a ninja. We had to have it on our Christmas list.  I don't know any kid that wouldn't enjoy this book.

 

 

Next we have:

Link



 

Description From Amazon:

This innovative and wildly funny read-aloud by award-winning humorist/actor B.J. Novak will turn any reader into a comedian.

You might think a book with no pictures seems boring and serious. Except . . . here's how books work. Everything written on the page has to be said by the person reading it aloud. Even if the words say . . .

BLORK. Or BLUURF.

Even if the words are a preposterous song about eating ants for breakfast, or just a list of astonishingly goofy sounds like BLAGGITY BLAGGITY and GLIBBITY GLOBBITY.

 

We saw the Youtube of B.J Novak reading this to a crowd and we decided to give it a go.  With only one child in the audience, it took a little longer for her to warm to it, because, of course there were no pictures.  Once she realised it was really very funny to hear mum and dad say those words, it was a hit.

 

I think this is ingenious and a great way to get kids to learn using auditory, as opposed to visual.

 

And next:

Link

Description From Amazon:
What’s big, blue, bossy, and turns up uninvited?
A slightly annoying elephant, of course!

Our Thoughts:

 This is a hoot of a book. It is a cautionary tale about always reading the labels and every page has more mayhem that Gigi just loves.  I recommend for anyone who loves a really silly book.

 

Last but not least:

 

Link

 

Description From Amazon:

Inspired by the evil villains and innocent damsels of silent movies, Willems tells the tale of a hungry fox who invites a plump goose to dinner. As with the beloved Pigeon books, kids will be calling out the signature refrain and begging for repeated readings. The funny details in the full-color illustrations by three-time Caldecott Honoree Mo Willems will bring nonstop laughter to story time.

Our Thoughts:

Firstly the noir style, love it, the simple journey with mummy chicken, hilarious, the ending, in true Willems style, very naughty.  Gigi is partial to the odd macabre humour, and what kid wouldn't be with a mother like myself,  he he.

 

That's all folks, off you hop!!!!

Kid Lit Blog Hop Rules *Please Read*

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* Don't link directly to your blog, it must be a specific post.*

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3. Please visit AT LEAST the TWO LINKS directly ahead of your own and leave them some love in the form of a comment. We are trying to build a community of bloggers, readers, parents, authors, and others who are as passionate about children’s literature as we are so please CONNECT and follow any or all of the blogs that interest you!

4. If you like, grab the button above and put it somewhere on your blog, preferably the post you're linking up. If you'd prefer, you can just add a text link back to this Hop so that others can find it and check out all these great book links!

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Kid Lit Blog Hop #47

Welcome back to the Kid Lit Blog Hop #47

 

 

Today, I don't have a review for you, so I thought I would share 6 impossible things before breakfast....

 

 

1. Frankie Dupont was accepted for a Book Bub promo, so it will be going free on October 16-20 on Amazon.

 

http://amzn.com/B00LPPEA0A

 



For anyone who doesn't know what a Book Bub promo is. Book bub is a free and discounted book site. They have over 2 million subscribers, so if you want to get your book selling and ranking, many people do Book Bub promo's. It's extremely hard to be accepted for a promo, so I think that is an achievement in itself.

Check out the site.  http://landers.bookbub.com/bestsellers-covers-m/?

 

2. Book 3 "Stellarcadia" in my Caramel Cardamom series has been edited and is now ready for the painstaking task of proofing and formatting.

 

3. Frankie Dupont And The Lemon Festival Fiasco ( Book 2) first draft is down. I am doing a thorough review to get it ship shape and ready to face my beta readers.

 

4. I have hired another illustrator to do Stellacadia's Cover. I can't wait to see what he comes up with. Stay tuned for a cover reveal hopefully in November with a release early December.

 

 

 

5. On November 1, I will be joining with 12 other Authors and Illustrators for Inside Story.  Check out the promo I managed to put together.  Thank you Cool Mom, ( Aka StanleyNKatrina's tec guru) for introducing me to http://www.picmonkey.com/ 

 

Even a luddite like me can use it! 

 

 

 



6. I recently completed a 4 week picture book course, with Jodell Saddler. It was fantastic and I highly recommend it. I learned so much and I hope one day to get my picture books noticed by a publisher.

 

 



 



http://www.sadlercreativeliterary.com/webinars---classes.html

That's all folks. What are your six impossible things, share them with me in the comments!

Happy Hopping everyone and enjoy the Hop!

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Kid Lit Blog Hop Rules *Please Read*

1. We ask that you kindly follow your hosts. You can follow us any way you choose (Email, GFC, Twitter, Facebook, G+, Pinterest, etc.), but we've added our preferences below. If you could just give us a quick "follow" or "like" that would be much appreciated! Make sure to leave us a message if you are following us (i.e., on Twitter or Facebook or on our websites) and we will be sure to follow you back. Thanks! :-)

Hostesses:

Renee @ Mother Daughter Book Reviews Facebook * Twitter

Jaymie @ Snacks for Max Twitter * Facebook

Katie @ Youth Literature Reviews Twitter * Facebook

Julie Grasso, Author/ Blogger Twitter * Facebook

Cheryl Carpinello, Author / Blogger Twitter * Facebook

Reshama @ Stacking Books Twitter * Facebook

Stacie @ BeachBoundBooks Twitter * Facebook

Mia @ Pragmatic Mom Twitter * Facebook

Lina @ Best 4 Future: Bringing Up Baby Bilingual Twitter * Facebook

Stanley & Katrina, Pawthors Twitter * Facebook

Co-Host:

Kimbra @ The Barefoot Librarian Twitter * Google+

 

2. Link up any Kid Lit related post. This can be a link to a children’s book review, a discussion about children’s literature/literacy, or a post on a recently-read children’s book or one that you love from your childhood.

* Don't link directly to your blog, it must be a specific post.*

* For Authors, we prefer you to link to your blog if you have one. Please link unique posts each time ~ no repeats please. *

* Make sure you include an image relevant to the POST (e.g., book cover), not your blog button or photo of yourself.*

* Feel free to link more than one post.*

3. Please visit AT LEAST the TWO LINKS directly ahead of your own and leave them some love in the form of a comment. We are trying to build a community of bloggers, readers, parents, authors, and others who are as passionate about children’s literature as we are so please CONNECT and follow any or all of the blogs that interest you!

4. If you like, grab the button above and put it somewhere on your blog, preferably the post you're linking up. If you'd prefer, you can just add a text link back to this Hop so that others can find it and check out all these great book links!

5. It would really help us get the word out about the Kid Lit Blog Hop if you would be so kind as to tweet, share, and spread the word about the Hop!

Interested in co-hosting the Kid Lit Blog Hop? If you've joined us before, you are welcome to join us again! Please email renee @ motherdaughterbookreviews (dot) com and put Co-Hosting Blog Hop in the subject line.

Happy Hopping!

Kid Lit Blog Hop #46

Welcome back to the Kid Lit Blog Hop #46

 

 



It is no secret that I have a major obsession with middle grade mysteries, so when I saw this one on Amazon, I snaffled it up

 

The Curious Disappearance of Professor Brown

by Tim Flanagan and illustrations by Dylan Gibson.

 

 

I was not disappointed. 

http://amzn.com/B00GP3HNRO

18 year old Lawrence Pinkley is Whitby's top private detective. Well actually he is the only private detective, complete with wardrobe of beige trenchcoats and trilby hats. When his father dies and leaves him a large inheritance, Lawrence can't touch it until he runs PIG for 5 years. ( Pinkley Investigation Group) So he sets out to follow in his father's footsteps and what follows is a laugh out loud adventure, with a cast of characters whose names often had me chortling.

 

 When Russet Brown arrives on Pinkley's door step, desperate to find her father Professor Brown, little does Lawrence know just how much of pumpkin of an investigation he has landed in. Mysterious notes begin finding their way into his office, and two thugs are watching his every move. Lawrence soon learns that this private detective gig is not as easy as he thought and he finds himself in one huge pickle, but not to worry. With a little help from some new friends, our dashing detective outsmarts the crooks and lives to investigate another day, just in time for his date with the lovely Vicky, his cafe crush.

This was one fun mystery, that had me laughing all the way to the end. I absolutely loved the colour illustrations by Dylan Gibson and found myself taking extra time to study each one, with their intricate and often hilarious details. I would recommend this to upper middle grade 12+ due to some of the events included and I am certainly looking forward to the next Lawrence Pinkley mystery.

 



Happy Hopping folks

Welcome to the 46th Kid Lit Blog Hop where we continue to develop a dynamic and engaged community of children's books bloggers, authors, publishers, and publicists. So, you are always more than welcome to join us by popping in a post and hopping around to meet some of your fellow Kid Lit bloggers and authors! We are pleased to be welcoming a few co-hosts this week: Stanley & Katrina, who have just released their latest book, The Observations of the Obstreperous Animals (Stanley & Katrina Book 2) and Rebecca, the author behind the book blog, A Book Long Enough. Welcome to Stanley & Katrina and Rebecca!

Happy Hopping everyone and enjoy the Hop!

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Kid Lit Blog Hop Rules *Please Read*

1. We ask that you kindly follow your hosts. You can follow us any way you choose (Email, GFC, Twitter, Facebook, G+, Pinterest, etc.), but we've added our preferences below. If you could just give us a quick "follow" or "like" that would be much appreciated! Make sure to leave us a message if you are following us (i.e., on Twitter or Facebook or on our websites) and we will be sure to follow you back. Thanks! :-)

Hostesses:

Renee @ Mother Daughter Book Reviews Facebook * Twitter

Jaymie @ Snacks for Max Twitter * Facebook

Katie @ Youth Literature Reviews Twitter * Facebook

Julie Grasso, Author/ Blogger Twitter * Facebook

Cheryl Carpinello, Author / Blogger Twitter * Facebook

Reshama @ Stacking Books Twitter * Facebook

Stacie @ BeachBoundBooks Twitter * Facebook

Mia @ Pragmatic Mom Twitter * Facebook

Maria@ Music Teaching and Parenting Twitter * Facebook

Co-Hosts:

Stanley & Katrina, Pawthors Twitter * Facebook

Rebecca @ A Book Long Enough Pinterest * Facebook

2. Link up any Kid Lit related post. This can be a link to a children’s book review, a discussion about children’s literature/literacy, or a post on a recently-read children’s book or one that you love from your childhood.

* Don't link directly to your blog, it must be a specific post.*

* For Authors, we prefer you to link to your blog if you have one. Please link unique posts each time ~ no repeats please. *

* Make sure you include an image relevant to the POST (e.g., book cover), not your blog button or photo of yourself.*

* Feel free to link more than one post.*

3. Please visit AT LEAST the TWO LINKS directly ahead of your own and leave them some love in the form of a comment. We are trying to build a community of bloggers, readers, parents, authors, and others who are as passionate about children’s literature as we are so please CONNECT and follow any or all of the blogs that interest you!

4. If you like, grab the button above and put it somewhere on your blog, preferably the post you're linking up. If you'd prefer, you can just add a text link back to this Hop so that others can find it and check out all these great book links!

5. It would really help us get the word out about the Kid Lit Blog Hop if you would be so kind as to tweet, share, and spread the word about the Hop!

Interested in co-hosting the Kid Lit Blog Hop? If you've joined us before, you are welcome to join us again! Please email renee @ motherdaughterbookreviews (dot) com and put Co-Hosting Blog Hop in the subject line.

Happy Hopping!

Karmac: Book Blast

Title: Karmack | Author: J.C. Whyte | Publication Date: June 6, 2013 | Publisher: Muse it Up Publishing | Pages: 140 | Recommended Age: 7+

Summary: A strange little creature enters the lives of three tough guys at Higgins Elementary. And from that point on, pranks come back like boomerangs, smacking the bullies right in their fifth grade butts! Sully, the leader of the gang, is the only one who can see this creature, which he names Karmack. Sully learns that the creature’s job is to balance all the bad pranks the bullies have pulled over the years. Karmack warns that if this fails, “dreadful, awful doom” awaits them all. Sully soon realizes that he must save not only himself but his friends, who have no idea why they keep getting boomeranged by Karmack!

"Karmack" won First Place in the 2014 Purple Dragonfly Writing contest, a national contest for children's book authors, in the category of chapter books (e-Books).

Purchase the Book

Amazon (US) * Amazon (UK) * Muse It Up Publishing

Barnes and Noble * Omnilit * Bookstrand

 

The Buzz About the Book

"Karmack is a well-written, middle grade book tackling the difficult topic of bullying from the perspective of the bully. The character development is absolutely brilliant as the reader witnesses the transformation of Sully from an aggressive, angry bully to a positive role model and respected leader among his peers. While the concept of karma is not for everyone, I found myself agreeing with the main message of how our actions have consequences, intended or otherwise. I would recommend this book to middle grade classrooms as a great book to generate discussion around bullying." ~ Renee @ Mother Daughter Book Reviews

 

"A wonderful story about growing up and treating others with respect, Karmack is well paced, funny, and manages to teach important lessons without coming off preachy." ~ Jess W., Amazon

 

"A fun read with important lessons for us all about Karma, and why bullies have more to balance than most people. Great for ages 9 up, child centered, non-preachy, action packed, great classroom read aloud." ~ Carolyn W., Amazon

 

"What an AMAZINGLY FUN story! EVERYONE needs to read it! Full of FUN, FANTASY, and FANTASTIC REVENGE on a bully! Fun for ALL ages!" ~ Shauna W., Amazon

 

"Karmack is a captivating pre-teen fantasy and author J.C. Whyte has created a strong cast of characters that are well developed and quite likable. As the story progresses, the suspense builds to a delightful outcome that is sure to keep readers anticipating Whyte's next round of literary treasures. We look forward to seeing more from this author." ~ Literary Classics Book Review, Amazon

 

About The Author: J.C. Whyte

When J.C. Whyte was eleven, her 6^th grade teacher gave a class assignment to write a poem about a sport. Realizing her classmates would probably choose popular American sports like baseball or football, J.C. decided to write about something different: golf. And to her complete surprise, the teacher found it comical; she was thereby encouraged to keep writing. Then over summer break, students were told to choose 26 books from a reading list and write a book report on each. J.C. was horrified! She wanted to enjoy her summer, not spend it reading! You see, J.C. was a very slow reader and didn’t much enjoy the experience. Plus, kids back then didn’t have all the fun books to choose from today. But that same teacher who had assigned the sports poem told J.C.’s mother she could write 26 stories instead of reading them. That was absolute genius! Although she didn’t actually write 26 stories (perhaps six?), J.C. submitted one which made her teacher laugh out loud in class. And she got an “A” on her summer reading assignment. J.C. has never forgotten that wise teacher who let her play to her strengths. So from the age of eleven, J.C. knew she wanted to be a writer. Yet by the time she reached college, she understood that writing stories seldom paid the bills. So she got her degrees in Journalism and Communications Management. Then for many years she channeled her creative energies in the field of Public Relations. Marriage, kids, and several more degrees and occupations later (including stints as a travel agent and paralegal), J.C. entered law school – mostly for the challenge of writing creative arguments for the court. But while in law school, she became a columnist for the student newsletter, writing humorous pieces on the strange and quirky life of a law student. She was absolutely thrilled when one of these articles was chosen for publication in The National Jurist, a magazine distributed to law students throughout the US. But after graduating and passing the Bar, J.C. realized within a few years that creative writing was still what made her heart sing. So now, as a grandma, she’s returned to writing. And with publication of her middle grade novel Karmack, she’s come full circle, back to where her writing journey began.

Website | Goodreads

 

* Book Blast Giveaway *

Prize: One winner will receive a $25 Amazon gift card or PayPal cash prize Contest ends: September 18, 11:59 pm, 2014 Open: Internationally How to enter: Please enter using the Rafflecopter widget below. Terms and Conditions: NO PURCHASE NECESSARY TO ENTER OR WIN. VOID WHERE PROHIBITED BY LAW. One winner will be randomly drawn through the Rafflecopter widget and will be contacted by email within 48 hours after the giveaway ends. The winner will then have 72 hours to respond. If a winner does not respond within 72 hours, a new draw will take place for a new winner. Odds of winning will vary depending on the number of eligible entries received. This contest is in no way sponsored, endorsed or administered by, or associated with Facebook. This giveaway is sponsored by the author, J.C. Whyte and is hosted and managed by Renee from Mother Daughter Book Reviews. If you have any additional questions – feel free to send and email to Renee(at)MotherDaughterBookReviews(dot)com. a Rafflecopter giveaway  

Skies Like These Book Blast

 

About the Book

Title: Skies Like These | Author: Tess Hilmo | Publication Date: July 15, 2014 | Publisher: Farrar, Straus and Giroux (BYR), sold by MacMillan | Pages: 240 | Recommended Age: 7 to 12

Summary: Twelve-year-old Jade’s perfect summers have always been spent reading and watching TV reruns, so she’s not happy when her parents send her off to Wyoming to her aunt’s house. She meets a boy who calls himself Roy Parker—just like the real name of the legendary rebel cowboy Butch Cassidy. Roy’s dad’s hardware store has closed because a chain store has opened up in town, and Roy thinks it is just like the big cattle barons in Butch’s day who put the local ranchers out of business. He wants Jade to be his Sundance Kid and help him pull some stunts worthy of Butch Cassidy. Sabotage the big store? Outsmart the store’s owner by doing reconnaissance on his ranch? Jade wants to be a good friend, but she’s not so sure about Roy’s schemes.

 

Purchase

Amazon * Barnes & Noble

 

The Buzz About the Book

"A robust cast of well-developed characters and a delightful, swiftly moving plot will leave readers wishing for Jade to extend her stay in Wyoming." ~ School Library Journal, Amanda Struckmeyer, Middleton Public Library, Madison, WI

 

"Drawing on rich Western lore and creating characters as gritty as the earth itself, Hilmo paints a picture of a town where everyone is connected . . . A heartening, comforting story with enough tension to keep readers hooked." - Kirkus Reviews

 

"A robust cast of well-developed characters and a delightful, swiftly moving plot will leave readers wishing for Jade to extend her stay in Wyoming." ~ School Library Journal

"Writing with humor and heart, Hilmo gently reminds readers of the benefits of being shaken out of one's routine, especially the sense of perspective gained by traveling to new places and trying new things." ~ Publishers Weekly

 

"A fantastic story for the 7-12 age range it is full of lighthearted humor and goings on. The characters are fully developed and loads of fun, the dialogue is engaging and the scenery is captivating. Jade a spunky city girl and Roy a down to earth cowboy create an incredible chemistry that draws you deep into their adventures. Full of suspense, good nature, childhood problems, loyalty and friendship this is one you definitely want your children to read (and is fun for the adults too). I highly recommend it!" ~ 5-Star review, Ally M., Amazon

 

"Mystery, intrigue, friendship and the true essence of childhood all form the backbone of this astounding book that will surly become a classic. I felt Author Tess Hilmo’s character descriptions are perfect with a deep POV that had me walking alongside both Jade and Roy on there fun filed adventure. As mentioned this is perfect for a summer reading list and highly recommend to all. 5 Stars!!!" ~ 5-Star review, Michael B., Amazon

 

About The Author: Tess Hilmo

Tess lives with her husband and three children in Highland, Utah. Her first book, With a Name Like Love, received three starred reviews and was a School Library Journal Best Book of the Year and an ABC New Voices title. Skies Like These is her second novel.

Website | Blog | Twitter

     

* Book Blast Giveaway *

Prize: $75 Amazon Gift Card or PayPal cash (winner’s choice) Contest ends: September 3, 11:59 pm, 2014 Open: Internationally How to enter: Please enter using the Rafflecopter widget below. Terms and Conditions: NO PURCHASE NECESSARY TO ENTER OR WIN. VOID WHERE PROHIBITED BY LAW. The winner will be randomly drawn through the Rafflecopter widget and will be contacted by email within 48 hours after the giveaway ends. The winner will then have 72 hours to respond. If a winner does not respond within 72 hours, a new draw will take place for a new winner. Odds of winning will vary depending on the number of eligible entries received. This contest is in no way sponsored, endorsed or administered by, or associated with Facebook. This giveaway is sponsored by the author, Tess Hilmo and is hosted and managed by Renee from Mother Daughter Book Reviews. If you have any additional questions – feel free to send and email to Renee(at)MotherDaughterBookReviews(dot)com. a Rafflecopter giveaway

The Secret Of The Sacred Scarab Book Blast

 

About the Book

Title: The Secret of the Sacred Scarab | Author: Fiona Ingram | Publication Date: December 30, 2008 | Publisher: iUniverse | Pages: 272 | Recommended Age: 10+

Summary: A 5000-year-old mystery comes to life when a scruffy peddler gives Adam and Justin Sinclair an old Egyptian scarab on their very first day in Egypt. Only when the evil Dr. Faisal Khalid shows a particular interest in the cousins and their scarab, do the boys realise they are in terrible danger. Dr. Khalid wants the relic at all costs. Justin and Adam embark upon the adventure of a lifetime, taking them down the Nile and across the harsh desert in their search for the legendary tomb of the Scarab King, an ancient Egyptian ruler. They are plunged into a whirlpool of hazardous and mysterious events when Dr. Khalid kidnaps them. They survive terrifying dangers in a hostile environment (such as a giant cobra, as well as sinking sand), pursued by enemies in their quest to solve the secret of the sacred scarab. They must translate the hieroglyphic clues on the underside of the scarab, as well as rescue the missing archaeologist James Kinnaird, and their friend, the Egyptologist Ebrahim Faza, before time runs out. They must also learn more about the ancient Seven Stones of Power and the mysterious Shemsu-Hor. With just their wits, courage, and each other, the boys manage to survive … only to find that the end of one journey is the beginning of another!

 

Awards

• Finalist Children's Fiction USA Next Generation 2009 Indie Book Awards
• Finalist Juvenile Fiction USA National Best Books 2009 Awards
• Winner Pre-Teen USA 2009 Readers' Favorites Awards
• Number 2 in the USA Children's & Teens Book Connection Top Ten Favourite Books of 2009 for Kids, Tweens & Teens
• Winner Silver Medal Teen Fiction 2010 Nautilus Book Awards
• Finalist Children's Fiction 2010 International Book Awards
• Winner Bronze Medal Pre-Teen Fiction 2010 Moonbeam Book Awards
• Finalist 2011 Rubery Book Awards
• Winner Gold Award Mystery Pre-Teen 2011 Children's Literary Classics Awards
• 2nd Place in the 2011 YA Sharpwrit Book Awards
• Winner Gold medal 2013 Wise Bear Book Awards

 

Book Trailer

 

Purchase

Amazon (U.S. Print) * Amazon (U.S. Kindle)

Book Depository * Smashwords

 

Coming Soon!!

(September 2014)

 

Buzz About Book 1

"Wow! That was an action-packed story! I loved how Ms. Ingram just dove right into the story. From the time that Adam is given the scarab to the time that Adam and Justin return home, there is non-stop action. Through Ms. Ingram’s fantastic writing skills, I was able to visualize all of the events as they were occurring. I can totally see the story in this book transformed into a screenplay for the big screen. I think it’s a fabulous story filled with mystery, intrigue, and action." ~ Renee @ Mother Daughter Book Reviews

"Author Fiona Ingram mixes history and legends in this fast action adventure that keeps you reading till the very end. The characters are cleverly written. Young readers can easily step into the shoes of these two cousins and experienced this exciting adventure that takes you into the heart of Egypt. I recommend this book to anyone who enjoys a good mystery..." ~ 5-Star review from Coffee Ramblings "Billy", Amazon (US)

"If you enjoyed reading Dan Brown's The Da Vinci Code and Enid Blyton's The Famous Five, I am sure you will look forward to reading this book. It will keep you spellbound to the end. The mysteries of the Sacred Scarab and the Scarab King unfold gradually. The story is even livelier because of its references to ancient history, legends and archaeology..." ~ 5-Star review from Book Review, Amazon (US)

"This story ROCKED! It was exciting, action-filled, adventurous and history filled book! It pretty much had everything me (as a boy) would want in a book - danger, mystery, legends, exciting setting, myths and much more. The story was written really well and it kept me reading page after page. I really liked the simple pencil illustrations in the book. I liked the characters of Justin and Adam. They were both nice, smart and brave. The book has no bad language or graphic violence in it..." ~ Erik @ This Kid Reviews Books

"...[T]his is a fun read that reminded me more of the Hardy Boys than anything else. Characters using their minds to solve the problems in the modern world. The writing is tight and fun. It doesn't linger on the unnecessary, rather, it constantly moves forward, always capturing your attention and finding reasons to read on and neglect whatever is burning on the stove. I would recommend this novel to anyone who enjoys a fun mystery in what projects to be the first in a well-crafted and original series."~ 5-Star review from J. Lurie, Amazon (US)

 

About The Author: Fiona Ingram

Fiona Ingram (B.A., Hons. (Natal), M.A., (Wits)) was born and educated in South Africa, and has worked as a full-time journalist and editor. Her interest in ancient history, mystery, and legends, and her enjoyment of travel has resulted in The Secret of the Sacred Scarab, the first in her exciting children’s adventure series—Chronicles of the Stone. Fiona has recently completed the second book entitled The Search for the Stone of Excalibur, a treat for young King Arthur fans. She is busy with Book 3 entitled The Temple of the Crystal Timekeeper.

   

Author Website | Blog | Facebook

Goodreads | Twitter | Book Website

 

* Book Blast Giveaway *

Prize: $25 Amazon Gift Card or PayPal cash (winner’s choice) Contest ends: September 2, 11:59 pm, 2014 Open: Internationally How to enter: Please enter using the Rafflecopter widget below. Terms and Conditions: NO PURCHASE NECESSARY TO ENTER OR WIN. VOID WHERE PROHIBITED BY LAW. The winner will be randomly drawn through the Rafflecopter widget and will be contacted by email within 48 hours after the giveaway ends. The winner will then have 72 hours to respond. If a winner does not respond within 72 hours, a new draw will take place for a new winner. Odds of winning will vary depending on the number of eligible entries received. This contest is in no way sponsored, endorsed or administered by, or associated with Facebook. This giveaway is sponsored by the author, Fiona Ingram and is hosted and managed by Renee from Mother Daughter Book Reviews. If you have any additional questions – feel free to send and email to Renee(at)MotherDaughterBookReviews(dot)com. a Rafflecopter giveaway