Thursday, 12 September 2013

Tomato and Pea: Blog Tour


 
 
Book description
 
“For years the evil villain Wintergreen had tried to destroy super crime-stopper, Tomato and his sidekick, Pea, and take over planet Oarg. In a plan gone wrong, Wintergreen traps himself along with his arch-nemesis in a runaway rocket ship that crashes on a strange planet called “EAR-TH”. Now these perennial enemies must learn to work together to survive the dangers on this strange world. Hungry birds, enormous snakes and the giant inhabitants of EAR-TH stand between this brawling bunch of aliens and finding a way home.”

My Review:
Tomato wins an all inclusive space cruise to a fabulous destination ( he he ominous sounding) so he decides to take his best friend Pea and his other two comrades Skew and Poppy. Little did they know, if was merely a ruse, by their arch nemesis Wintergreen and his evil cronies. He he, I love the characters and names from the get go. I love that narrative style, like you see so often in animation which is just what kids like to read.  The descriptions are really vivid and the glossary at the back made it so easy to adjust to this new world of  Oarg. The author has a great imagination that comes across so well on the page, but what I love more than anything was the use of humour. As mentioned in the reviews prior to mine, the author is 11 years old and the humour is spot on to what kids in that age group would find funny.

Here are my some random lines, just to show you some of the comedy value:

"Wintergreen and Spike wore mustaches and Pye wore glasses that made it look like he had two eyes instead of one." Love it

"Skew replied, "That's great Poppy, but today is not Saturday, so it's not time for his shower."

"The minions at their work terminals must be doing something top secret, because the commander keeps SHUSHING them and won't allow them to communicate with each other"  The Smidges take on the goings on in the Library that they landed in on Ear-th. Hilarious...

This was a quick and totally clean read, which as we have discussed so many times that kids love to be entertained and it doesn't take 500 pages to do it.  I think this would be great as a read aloud so that the fantastic humour of the book can be demonstrated by the reader to the listeners.
Huge congratulations to the author, and I see there is room for a sequel, he he. Stay tuned for the next adventures of Tomato and Pea.

One final note, I totally agree with MotherDaughterBookReviews in a previous review. I like the cover, it is sharp and eye catching, but I want to know what Tomato and Pea look like. That is certainly the feedback I hear time and again for middle grade books that you must allow the child to visualise the character.  I happen to know that the author is quite a fantastic illustrator so I would encourage him in the second edition, to put his wonderful talent to his covers too.

A thoroughly enjoyable story that will sure to entertain.  I would recommend to ages 6-8

5 Stars


 
 
 
So Where Can you buy it, hurrahhh
 
 
 
 


Not so serious Bio –

 
Eleven-year-old Erik plans to eventually take over the world. Right now he's a bit too young, so he is spending time as a sixth grade student, book review blogger and hopeful writer.



 
 
 
Where Can You Find Erik
 
 
 
 
 
Blog Tour Dates


September 8th 
 http://thiskidreviewsbooks.com/ - Cover reveal and announce blog tour
September 9th
Michelle Isenhoff’s blog http://michelleisenhoff.com/ - Book review

September 10
 
KidLit Reviews http://kid-lit-reviews.com/ - Book review
 
September 11th
 
Mother Daughter Book Reviews http://motherdaughterbookreviews.com/ - Book review
 
The Story Readig Ape http://thestoryreadingapeblog.com/ - Guest post by me (Erik)
 
September 12th
 
Catherine Johnson’s Blog http://catherinemjohnson.wordpress.com/ - Book review
 
September 13th
 
By Word of Beth http://www.bethstilborn.com/ - Book review and giveaway
 
September 14th
 
Diane Tulloch’s blog http://thepatientdreamer.com/ - Book review
 
September 15th
 
Picture Books Help Kids Soar http://viviankirkfield.com/ - Book review
 
September 16th
 
Susanna Leonard Hill’s blog http://susannahill.blogspot.com/ - Interview - Q&A with Commenters and giveaway
 
September 17th  
 
Reading with Rhythm http://readingwithrhythm.wordpress.com/ - Book Review
 
September 18th
 
Julie Rowan-Zoch’s blog http://julierowanzoch.wordpress.com/ - Interview
 
September 19th
 
Dr. Nana Plum’s (AKA Dr. Niamh Clune) http://ontheplumtree.wordpress.com/ - Book Review in rhyme :D
 
September 20th
 
S.W. Lothian’s blog http://swlothian.com/ - Book review
Posted by at 18 comments:
Labels: , , , , , ,

Tuesday, 3 September 2013

Kid Lit Blog Hop #23:The Mysterious Case Of The Missing Honey


Welcome back to the Kid Lit Blog Hop #23
 

Hurrahhh Spring is here. ( Hang on, I know I know, you are thinking, no its not, its Autum, well not at the bottom of the world......he he)
 
Finally after hearing all your glorious tales of summer fun, we have hit spring and we are in sunny Brisbane visiting my folks.
 
 
We are very busy this week, so we haven't had time for an indepth review but I have made a recent trip to the POST OFFICE
 
Today, we have a treat for my three loyal fans of the post office review ( you know who you are) With out further ado, here is Post Office Book Review I have lost count.
 
( for my anyone who has never read an illustrious Post Office Book Review, our local post office has discounted books. Here is another jem)
 

 
The Mysterious Case Of The Missing Honey
By Claire Freedman and Holly Swain

 
http://amzn.com/1862337861

Description from the back cover
Someone is stealing Mr Bear's honey. But catching the villain  is proving tricky... Can Inspector Clueless and his sidekick, Sniff-It-Out, outwit the sweet-toothed villain and solve this most sticky of crimes?



First Page

"It was a busy Monday at the police station. Telephones were ringing, computers were computing. Tring Tring.
Inspector Clueless picked up his phone for the tenth time that morning.
 

Our REVIEW

 
 You can never really tell what the toddler is going to love. The illustrations in this one drew her in, but she loves the story too. Hilarious to hear a toddler saying, "lets check out the crime scene," or something slightly garbled like that.

Kids love repetition and each day we return to the police station for the same line above just with a different day. Gigi loves that.
My favourite is when they examine the books for the suspects.  "Fingers The Frog and Nabbit The Rabbit" stand out, so Inspector Clueless and Sniff, go to sniff it out.
Well, I am not going to tell you what they find but it is hilarious.
Just when the case is looking like it has completely stumped Inspector Clueless, Sniff finds another clue and they solve the case.

Well, you know my love for all things mystery and a picture book mystery, I LOVE IT and Gigi does too.

Once again that magic of the post office has not failed us.


Happy hopping folks.
 
  
 
Welcome to the 23rd Kid Lit Blog Hop. The Kid Lit Blog Hop takes place on the 1st and 3rd Wednesdays of each month. We have managed to create a dynamic and engaged community of children's books bloggers, authors, publishers, and publicists, as well as parents seeking out their next great read. So, you are more than welcome to link in and take some time to make some new friends. Please join me in welcoming our co-hostesses for this Hop, Ang from Juggling Act Mama and Dee Kirby - author of The Portal Series. A big, big welcome to you both! Please be sure to give each of our hostesses a visit to say a quick hello and we'll be sure to visit you right back!

Happy Hopping everyone and enjoy the Hop!

Kid Lit Blog Hop
<div align="center"><a href="http://motherdaughterbookreviews.com/category/kid-lit-blog-hops/" title="Kid Lit Blog Hop"><img src="http://motherdaughterbookreviews.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/09/Kid-Lit-Blog-Hop-Button-Sep-2012-e1349976901756.jpg" alt="Kid Lit Blog Hop" style="border:none;" /></a></div>
 

Kid Lit Blog Hop Rules *Please Read*

1. We ask that you kindly follow your hostesses and co-hostesses. 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:
Co-Hosts:
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 *
* 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? Please email renee @ motherdaughterbookreviews (dot) com and put Co-Hosting Blog Hop in the subject line.
Happy Hopping!  
Posted by at 12 comments:
Labels: , , , , ,

Wednesday, 28 August 2013

The Gubbins Club : Review

 http://amzn.com/B00DT3NJ4O
 
Today we are delighted to be a part of a blog tour for "The Gubbins Club"
by Melinda Talianchich Falgoust
 
Description:
 
X marks the spot. At least in fiction. That's what ten-year old Colin "Smout" McManus always thought, but when a mysterious package arrives at Edinburgh Academy from his archaeologist uncle, Smout finds himself embarking on a dangerous adventure throughout the streets of historical Edinburgh to find a lost pirate treasure. Smout and his ragtag group of friends must solve a series of strange clues and riddles to puzzle out the mysterious trail. But they're not the only ones in search of the gold. Someone as ruthless as the pirates of old is hot on their heels. Will they find the treasure before he finds them?

 
 
My Review:
 
We begin when Bernie Mc Manus, a curator at the museum, goes missing in search of a legendary treasure.  Not without leaving a trail of clues for his young nephew Smout (Colin) Mc Manus.  School was more like a torture chamber for Smout, with regular dackings and wedgies by the school bully Mad Dog. Little did he know, that a food fight involving Mad Dog, would end not just in a detention, but a treasure hunt to boot. Along with the other food fight offenders, Emma the school bookwork, Rory the Athlete and Bogey the nostril hunting treasure seeker, they embark on an adventure to solve the riddle of the mysterious package that Smout receives during their incarceration.  The package arrives with the dreadful news that Smout's uncle has disappeared. Convinced that the clues not only hold the key to the treasure but the whereabouts of his uncle, Smout and the motley crew band together and utilise each other strengths in order to solve the case. They are drawn into a web of intriguing puzzles and clues focused around the works of none other than the famous Robert Louis Stevenson. The crew find themselves in mortal danger, pursued by a real pirate sick with gold fever, but things always as they seem.  Smout and his new friends, solve the clues and in turn, discover new friendships born out of the desperate need for survival and the ever present lure of treasure.
This was a truly intriguing read, full of intricate clues, that will have you guessing to the very end. With a mystery steeped in facts throughout history, I was delighted to learn so much about Robert Louis Stevenson and his literary adventures. The cast of characters is extensive and the clues extremely  clever, so I would definitely recommend this to upper middle grade 12+
5 Stars 
  
 I received this book as part of a blog tour in exchange for an honest review
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Where Can You Find Melinda and Her Book
 

Website: www.melindatfalgoust.doodlekit.com
 
PURCHASE LINKS
http://www.amazon.com/The-Gubbins-Club-Legend-Charlies/dp/1482690403
https://www.smashwords.com/books/view/326921
http://www.barnesandnoble.com/w/the-gubbins-club-melinda-taliancich-falgoust/1115165307?ean=9781482690408
http://www.walmart.com/ip/26928714
GOODREADS
http://www.goodreads.com/book/show/18106236-the-gubbins-club
BOOK TRAILER VIDEO
Posted by at 3 comments:
Labels: , , , , , , ,

Monday, 26 August 2013

Best of Summer/Winter Giveaway Hop 2013


 
WELCOME TO THE PARTY
 
This week we are joining together with loads of other bloggers passionate about kids books, to bring you this awesome giveaway.
 
  
So What's the prize, you ask.
 
 
TADA!
 
Two of my Middle Grade Books in Kindle edition or Paperback.
Winners choice. 
 
 

 
Description:
 
Caramel Cinnamon thought the worst day of her life was the day her grandparents, the King and Queen of the Elves of Cardamom went missing. She was wrong! The day she spills sticky toffee syrup onto her father's computer, that's when her worst nightmare begins. She finds herself marooned on a forbidden planet, sent there by an evil clone with a very sticky secret. Caramel is desperate to escape. If she doesn't she will lose her dreams of returning to Cardamom to become a healer like her Mum. Luckily, she has a secret of her own and the lives of her family and friends depend on it! Suitable for ages 9-12




 
Description:
 
Life is sweet for Caramel and things are finally getting back to normal. Well, as normal as it can be for a telepathic elf who can train trees and control computers, but she soon finds life on Cardamom is not all cupcakes and apple cider.  A saboteur is hiding in the rainforest canopy, and the elves’ precious cardamom export has been wiped out. Caramel is certain it’s another trick of Alexander222 and her Aunt Isabel, but no one will believe her, and the clock is ticking. She must expose the saboteur in time to save the crop or the Elves of Cardamom will lose their livelihood.
Caramel won’t rest until her theory is proven. While she is on the hunt, she makes a shocking discovery, one that will change everything. Follow Caramel’s gripping adventures in the exciting sequel to “Escape From The Forbidden Planet.”  Suitable for Children aged 9-12.
But wait, that's not all.
+
 
 
Jump on the rafflecopter below to enter.
a Rafflecopter giveaway
 
 
Best of luck and don't forget to hop around the other blogs. There are some awesome prizes on offer

 
 
 

Posted by at 52 comments:

Sunday, 25 August 2013

Mary Had A Sleepy Sheep by Julia Dweck

Hi Folks
Welcome back to the Kid Lit Blog Hop
 
 
 
Today I am delighted to bring to you another wonderful book by Julia Dweck
 



Description from Amazon:
 
"Young Mary had a little lamb.
His name was Sheppard sheep,
And everywhere that Mary went
That sheep was sure to sleep.”
This is not your average Mother Goose nursery rhyme. In this hilarious parody, poor Mary has one very sleepy, slumbering, snoozing sheep named Sheppard and Mary’s mom is not happy.
Can Mary can keep her sleepy sheep awake?
Young readers will laugh along at Mary’s zany attempts, as she tries everything from spicy-hot fiestas to water fights. The humor is fast and fun in this easy to read rhyming adventure.
 

My Review:


Poor Mary has a sleepy sheep, how ever will she keep him awake.
She buys a book, ( clever girl) with ideas to wake her slumbersome sheep.
Mary tries every imaginative way in the book, like dancing shoes, bright lights, a water hose, spicy food, funny shows, freezing cold, even a French horn. Her sheep finds a every way to doze, siesta and snooze his way through each and every one.
Mary's last resort is pure genius, and she manages to finally keep her sleepy sheep awake. Somehow she has bitten off more than she can chew, with a very naughty non sleepy sheep. Another delightful rhyming read that will have your kids laughing along with Mary and her very mischievous sheep.
The illustrations are wonderful, especially the hidden mouse that had me chuckling at each turn of the page.
I thoroughly recommend for children aged 3-6
.

So where can we find it.


Well, its not even released yet he he.


But you can pre-order it right now Hurrahh.....

http://ow.ly/oeDZy


Julia Dweck has many more wonderful books just like this delightful read, so be sure to check out them all. 

Visit Ms Dweck:



Welcome to the 22nd Kid Lit Blog Hop. The Kid Lit Blog Hop takes place on the 1st and 3rd Wednesdays of each month. We have managed to create a dynamic and engaged community of children's books bloggers, authors, publishers, and publicists, as well as parents seeking out their next great read. So, you are more than welcome to link in and take some time to make some new friends. Please join me in welcoming back our co-hosts for this Hop, Bruce from The Bookshelf Gargoyle, Victoria Simcox - author of The Magic Warble and The Black Shard, Stacie from BeachBoundBooks. A big, big welcome to all of you! Please be sure to give each of our hosts a visit to say a quick hello and we'll be sure to visit you right back!

Happy Hopping everyone and enjoy the Hop!

Kid Lit Blog Hop
<div align="center"><a href="http://motherdaughterbookreviews.com/category/kid-lit-blog-hops/" title="Kid Lit Blog Hop"><img src="http://motherdaughterbookreviews.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/09/Kid-Lit-Blog-Hop-Button-Sep-2012-e1349976901756.jpg" alt="Kid Lit Blog Hop" style="border:none;" /></a></div>
 

Kid Lit Blog Hop Rules *Please Read*

1. We ask that you kindly follow your hostesses and co-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:
Co-Hosts:
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 *
* 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? Please email renee @ motherdaughterbookreviews (dot) com and put Co-Hosting Blog Hop in the subject line.
Happy Hopping!
Posted by at 1 comment:
Labels: , , , ,

Thursday, 8 August 2013

The Wishbird: By Garielle Wang + Interview + Giveaway

Welcome Back to the Kid Lit Blog Hop #22
 
 
I am so excited to bring to you to today a review for a newly released book by local Melbourne Author Gabrielle Wang.
 

 
 
This is another one of my awesome twitter following moments. I started following Gabrielle after she posted a wonderful comment about writing for children. Then I realised she was local to my city and was releasing a middle grade book soon, hurrah. I asked Gabrielle the details of where she was launching and she so generously sent me an invite. Hurrah, I have made another friend from the obscurity of twitter.
 
So I went to Gabrielle's launch of the The Wishbird at the http://www.littlebookroom.com.au/ an exquisite book shop by the way, full of delicious children's books.
Gabrielle started by reading her Prologue. The words were so beautifully woven, I was enchanted. Her Agent then spoke about working with Gabrielle and how she mentioned the book launch to another friend who said, "Oh Gabrielle, your magical friend". Everyone in the packed little book shop seemed to know and agree. This was one talented and wonderful lady. At the conclusion, little waiters and waitresses moved through the crowd and gave everyone a little white meringue shaped into a Wishbird. We all took a meringue and made a wish. He He, can you guess what I wished for.....  Well you will never know, he he
 
So here it is The Wishbird By Gabrielle Wang
 
Description from Amazon:
Oriole's beloved Wishbird is dying and she must leave the Forest of Birds to save him. But in the City of Soulless there are traitors everywhere, and when Oriole is captured, only a street orphan can help her. Can Oriole and Boy save Soulless and its bewitched king, or will the city's darkness prove too great even for magic?
My Review:

From the moment I started reading The Wishbird the words enchanted me. The prologue begins with Mellow "The Wishbird" drawing near to the last threads of life. He doesn't worry about where he will journey next, he worries for Oriole, sweet Oriole.
Oriole is a 12 year old girl who has never lived among humans. She came to live with The Wishbird as an infant and has been raised by the birds of the forest ever since. Her clothing is woven from silk spun by orb weaving spiders. Her every word is said in sing song fashion, as she has never ever spoken to another human being, only her bird friends. When Oriole realises her Wishbird is dying, she embarks on a quest towards the city of Soulless to alert the King to the Wishbird's conditon. The King and the Wishbird are forever tied together by the fabric of the universe and Oriole believes the King will have a solution. Soulless is an evil place, full of despair unlike anything Oriole has ever known and even the sound of her voice, places Oriole in great danger.
Her simple quest turns sour and Oriole finds herself in the dungeons, awaiting death. A chance meeting with a small orphan named Boy is her only way of escape. Boy has troubles of his own, on the run from his adopted and ruthless family of other orphan boys. Boy helps Oriole escape and joins her quest to save Oriole's precious Wishbird. Treachery is everywhere, and the city itself is under attack. Oriole and Boy find new friends who reveal the secret of Oriole's origins and together, they unite in their quest to save the Wishbird and the City of Soulless. The enemy is formidable, but one little girl with a sing song voice has the power to change it back to become a city of Solace.

This was a wonderful book with such intricate and vivid descriptions. From the loveliness of Oriole and her enchanted Forest of Birds to the rotting and desolate City of Soulless. There are some violent and dark moments which help to build the tension and fear not just for Oriole's quest but for her life. Every page of this enchanting tale gripped me to the very end. The illustrations that Gabrielle personally created for this book are stunning. They helped me visualise sweet Oriole and her plight throughout the story so beautifully. I would recommend this to upper middle grade (12+)
 5 Stars.

But wait, there's more.

You could win one of 6 copies


Goodreads Book Giveaway

The Wishbird by Gabrielle Wang

The Wishbird

by Gabrielle Wang

Giveaway ends August 18, 2013.
See the giveaway details at Goodreads.
Enter to win


Joining me in the blogosphere today is the lovely, Gabrielle Wang

Welcome Gabrielle.

Firstly, the story of how you came to write is truly wonderful Gabrielle, will you share it with us?
How did you first get your start in writing? ie Was your journey to publishing fraught with the rejections that we hear so many authors detail?

I think every aspiring writer should receive rejections. Rejections are the author's rite of passage because when you are finally published, you appreciate it so much more.
I have many rejection letters which I keep in a folder in my filing cabinet to remind me that it has been a hard road. My first lot came when I illustrated my own picture book more than 25 years ago. I lost confidence in my ability after that and gave up the thought of ever being published. For me it was probably a good thing because the timing was wrong. I would never give that advice to aspiring authors and illustrators today though.
My story is very different. In those days I had no idea I could write a novel because my only interest was illustration. In 2000 though, I had a vivid dream. When I woke up the next morning I wrote the dream down. This grew into a short story which then became my first novel, The Garden of Empress Cassia.
Again I received rejections, nine in fact. But in the end it was picked up by Penguin Australia and has gone on to win several awards and has been published in the UK, US, South America and Korea.
So the thing is, just because a number of publishers reject your work, doesn't necessarily mean that your novel or illustrations are no good. All it takes is one person to see your potential and that's what happened to me.
Where did the idea of The Wishbird come from?

My mother found a book in her classroom when she was in Grade six way back in 1935. It was called Green Mansions. She loved it so much that it began her love of reading. That book became like a myth in my life because my mum talked about it so much. She searched for years in secondhand bookshops until she finally found a copy which she gave me to read when I was fourteen. It is about a strange girl with a beautiful bird like voice who lives in a forest of birds.

How long did it take you to draft this enchanting tale and how did you come by the names for your characters?

The Wishbird took about two years before the final manuscript was completed.
Naming characters is very important to me. The meaning and sound need to reflect the personality of your character. Oriole was originally called Alethea, but later I decided to give her the name of a bird with a beautiful song. Also I think the sound of the word Oriole is lovely. The character Boy, whose real name we discover at the end of the book is Hero, was named after my dog. My dog by the way is definitely NOT a hero. He is even scared of spiderwebs blowing in the wind. I think he has a very vivid imagination.

What advice would you give to new and upcoming authors?
 
Read books by authors whose style you like. Write everyday. Take a writing class. Set yourself achievable daily goals. Edit your work 60 times before you send it off to a publisher. No, not really… But this was the number of times I edited The Garden of Empress Cassia. Read your work out aloud. Join a writing group with writers of a similar standard who ideally write for the same market, and who are at a similar stage in their writing careers. e.g. if you write for children it's best to have a writing group with the same kind of people. Self doubt about your writing ability is your friend not your enemy. If you think you are already good enough then you will not get any better. Be a good watcher and listener.

 
Where can we find Gabrielle: 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Thank you to Gabrielle for joining us today and happy hopping folks.
 

 
 
 

Welcome to the 21st Kid Lit Blog Hop. The Kid Lit Blog Hop takes place on the 1st and 3rd Wednesdays of each month. We have managed to create a dynamic and engaged community of children's books bloggers, authors, publishers, and publicists, as well as parents seeking out their next great read. So, you are more than welcome to link in and take some time to make some new friends. Our summer holidays are in full gear and we have been one busy household. I may be a little slow hopping around but leave me a quick hello in the comment section and I'll be sure to give you a visit back. :-) Please join me in welcoming back our co-hostesses for this Hop, Suzanne de Montigny, author of The Shadow of the Unicorn: The Legacy and Serena Schreiber, author of Finn's Ship. Welcome Suzanne and Serena! Please be sure to give each of our hostesses a visit to say a quick hello and we'll be sure to visit you right back!

Happy Hopping everyone and enjoy the Hop!

Kid Lit Blog Hop
<div align="center"><a href="http://motherdaughterbookreviews.com/category/kid-lit-blog-hops/" title="Kid Lit Blog Hop"><img src="http://motherdaughterbookreviews.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/09/Kid-Lit-Blog-Hop-Button-Sep-2012-e1349976901756.jpg" alt="Kid Lit Blog Hop" style="border:none;" /></a></div>
 

Kid Lit Blog Hop Rules *Please Read*

1. We ask that you kindly follow your hostesses and co-hostesses. 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:
Co-Hostess:
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 *
* 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? Please email renee @ motherdaughterbookreviews (dot) com and put Co-Hosting Blog Hop in the subject line.
Happy Hopping!
Posted by at 6 comments:
Labels: , , , ,

Wednesday, 7 August 2013

Review: The Secret Of The Sacred Scarab

 
Welcome back to the Kid Lit Blog Hop #21
 
 
Today I am so excited to review
The Secret Of The Sacred Scarab
by Fiona Ingram
 

 
 
 
DESCRIPTION FROM AMAZON:
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 and 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!
 
MY REVIEW:
 
Adam and Justin accompany their Aunt Isabel,( a very cool world travelling journalist), along with their Gran on a once in a life time holiday to Egypt. Both boys long for an adventure, but neither could imagine a chance meeting with a dishevelled old street peddler, would send them on ride so wild that not even the kids in their class back home would believe their tale. 
When Adam discovers a dirty scarab and a random piece of paper in the bottom of his pants pockets, he starts to question everyone, everything, and even his own sanity as strange and dangerous events begin to unfold. The Scarab clearly becomes more than just a junky old artifact and Adam, Justin, Isabel and Gran find themselves embroiled in a race to solve the mystery of the disappearance of a renowned archaeologist. When the creepy Dr Khalid crosses path's with the adventurers, Adam and Justin realise they have uncovered more than just a smuggling ring, they have the key to unlock a power so great that it threatens the safety of the entire world.
Ms Ingram has developed an intricate story with very endearing characters. Adam and Justin were typical fun loving cousins, in search of adventure and Isabel and Gran had so much personality between them I found myself just enjoying their witty banter. The setting in Egypt was depicted with such incredible detail, I felt like I was really there on that tour bus with them. There was loads of action, and edge of your seat moments, I really began to wonder if the boys would prevail. Ms Ingram has also included some fantastic illustrations, that gave such an authentic flavour to the characters and the setting of the story. There was some violence which I think would be appropriate for the 10+ age group, but Ms Ingram dotted so many light hearted moments which were so effective in neutralising the tension. Well, until the next edge of your seat moment anyway.... Ms Ingram weaves in so much fascinating information about Egypt, that I think this book would be an awesome read for school kids studying Egypt. I thoroughly enjoyed this gripping tale and I can't wait to read the next instalment. 5 STARS

And I am not the only one who loved this book, check out http://motherdaughterbookreviews.com/book-review-the-secret-of-the-sacred-scarab-by-fiona-ingram-with-erik-from-this-kid-reviews-books/
 
But wait, there's more, an interview with the awesome Ms Ingram.
 
 
So Fiona

1. Tell us how you came up with this action packed adventure?
My mom (sadly passed away now) discovered travelling quite late in life and loved it. A few years ago, she wanted to visit Egypt. I said, “How about Paris?” but she was adamant. We had an incredible time and once I got back, I decided to write a short story for my 2 nephews (then 10 and 12) who had accompanied us. I wrote a title (The Secret of the Sacred Scarab) and then the first word, “Egypt!” Always a good word to start an Egyptian adventure. I modelled the adventure on all the places we had visited. Characters just appeared which was very helpful and useful. The story grew in leaps and bounds and by halfway I knew that they could never save the world in one book. The story spilled over the edges and led to more adventures.
Boarding the ship
2. How did you manage to come up with such vivid descriptions of Egypt? Did you visit for research? When can I stow away in your suitcase if so.
Going to a place in your book is first prize. I was just lucky and perhaps it was meant to be that Mom chose Egypt. I did a lot of research, but I also remembered, from photos and souvenirs, much of what we had experienced. Of course you can tag along anytime, as long as you carry your own suitcase!
Queen Hatshepsuts Temple 
Camel shenanigans
3. How long did it take to craft the story from beginning to end?
The whole book was miles too long and had so much more stuff in it than now. I just wrote and wrote and wrote. I had no idea how long a book should be. I also had a full-time, very demanding job so it took about 4 years to complete. Then I had to cut the book in half because it was just too long. In the meantime, I developed the back history and mythology behind the Seven Stones of Power, and laid out the remaining adventures.
 
4. If there is one place in the world that we must visit, where would you recommend?
Well, I love Europe and lived in Paris so Paris is a good choice. I take my young heroes back there in Book Four, when they have to find the tomb of a Templar knight and discover yet another Stone of Power. If you are looking for countryside that is breathtaking, look no further than Scotland. I went there to research castles for Book 2: The Search for the Stone of Excalibur (no prizes for guessing what it’s about!)
 
5. What is your favourite part of writing?
The planning, research and actual writing. I hate the ‘fixing-up’ side of it like editing and corrections. Did I mention the travelling to foreign climes? Oh, that’s definitely the very best part!
 
6. How do you come up with your characters, are they people you know?
In the beginning I relied on family—Mom is Gran, I am Aunt Isabel, and Adam and Justin are my 2 nephews Connor and Michael. We also met really hilarious characters in Egypt so please don’t tell them they are in the book! After that, characters have just appeared, without me trying very hard to think of them. I let my mind wander and before I know it, there’s a queue of characters all demanding to be in the book.
 
7. Will we see a sequel soon and can you tell us a little bit about the story?
Wait for it—there are seven books. Yes, seven. The boys’ quest for the Seven Stones of Power takes them to different countries, where they learn about different cultures, ancient secret, myths, and legends. Book 2 is The Search for the Stone of Excalibur. There is, of course, their mortal enemy Dr. Khalid hot on their trail, but another mysterious group appears, with every intention of upsetting everyone’s plans to retrieve the Second Stone of Power. I also introduce another character, a little African girl called Kim. She accompanies the cousins on their mission and they are not too pleased about that! Kim is based on my foster child, now my adopted daughter, Mabel. Book 3: The Temple of the Crystal Timekeeper is in the final stages. The adventure takes the trio to Mexico where they crash-land in the jungle and are rescued by an uncontacted tribe. They have to find the lost city of stone gods and just maybe that’s where they will find the Third Stone of Power. Unfortunately, apart from Dr. Khalid still dogging their heels, they encounter a really terrible enemy who is even worse than Khalid. Danger, death-defying sequences and more!
 
8. What is your favourite cupcake flavour?
Well, I was hoping to say sticky date and chocolate with Cardamom sauce but looks like there’s not chance of that so I will have to stick with my old favourite carrot and pecan nut. It’s kind of a carrot cake in a muffin.

 
Wow, Just Wow, that was an awesome interview Fiona. Virtual sticky date and chocolate cupcakes with caramel cardamom sauce to you. Thanks so much for joining us.
 
So where can you find Fiona
 
 
 
 
 
 

 

Welcome to the 21st Kid Lit Blog Hop. The Kid Lit Blog Hop takes place on the 1st and 3rd Wednesdays of each month. We have managed to create a dynamic and engaged community of children's books bloggers, authors, publishers, and publicists, as well as parents seeking out their next great read. So, you are more than welcome to link in and take some time to make some new friends. Our summer holidays are in full gear and we have been one busy household. I may be a little slow hopping around but leave me a quick hello in the comment section and I'll be sure to give you a visit back. :-) Please join me in welcoming back our co-hostesses for this Hop, Suzanne de Montigny, author of The Shadow of the Unicorn: The Legacy and Serena Schreiber, author of Finn's Ship. Welcome Suzanne and Serena! Please be sure to give each of our hostesses a visit to say a quick hello and we'll be sure to visit you right back!

Happy Hopping everyone and enjoy the Hop!

Kid Lit Blog Hop
<div align="center"><a href="http://motherdaughterbookreviews.com/category/kid-lit-blog-hops/" title="Kid Lit Blog Hop"><img src="http://motherdaughterbookreviews.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/09/Kid-Lit-Blog-Hop-Button-Sep-2012-e1349976901756.jpg" alt="Kid Lit Blog Hop" style="border:none;" /></a></div>
 

Kid Lit Blog Hop Rules *Please Read*

1. We ask that you kindly follow your hostesses and co-hostesses. 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:
Co-Hostess:
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 *
* 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? Please email renee @ motherdaughterbookreviews (dot) com and put Co-Hosting Blog Hop in the subject line.
Happy Hopping!
Posted by at 11 comments:
Labels: , , , , , ,
Subscribe to: Posts (Atom)