By: Bruce Black,
on 1/17/2016
Failure to sell your work, and the rejection that accompanies such failure, can eat away at your heart until there’s nothing left but a shell pumping blood but no longer pumping words. A dry heart. It can happen to you if you’re not careful or vigilant enough, if you’re not aware of the words dwindling or the sentences shrinking or the desire drying up. It’s a disease, this dry heart.
By: JOANNA MARPLE,
on 10/5/2015
Title: New Shoes Written by: Susan Lynn Meyer Illustrated by: Eric Velasquez Published by: Holiday House, 2015 Themes/Topics: Shoes, Segregation, Discrimination, African American Interest, Human & Civil Rights, Fairness, Justice & Equality, Determination, Genre: Historical fiction Suitable for ages: 5-8 Opening: My cousin Charlotte … Continue reading
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By: [email protected],
on 7/19/2015
It’s not enough to just want something and hope that it will be delivered to you on a silver platter. Unfortunately for most of us, life isn’t that simple. What we try to teach our kids is that you absolutely can achieve your aspirations, your goals, your dreams, but it takes work, persistence and determination. […]
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written and illustrated by Alison Brown
Capstone Young Readers 2/01/2014
978-1-62370-114-7
Age 4 ro 8 32 pages
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“Eddie is looking for a friend—a friend who likes adventure. Then Eddie meets Dog. And the fun begins. This wonderful story, with stunning artwork celebrates the excitement of a beautiful relationship.”
Opening
“Eddie dreamed of adventure.
“He imagined flying off to far-off places and doing amazing things. Then one day . . . “
Review
Eddie found Dog. No, wait, Dog found Eddie.
Eddie is at the airport, dreaming of adventures, when he sees Dog in a pet carrier, which Dog opens with his paw. (Dogs can get out of anything.) Dog wants a life of adventure and must see the same in Eddie. Dog asks Eddie if he would like to play. This is the beginning of a unique friendship and a lovely picture book. Eddie and Dog is one of my favorite picture books this year.
What fun the two enjoy together. Their adventures are loaded with suspense, intrigue, and some silliness for good measure. The two hunt crocodiles, sail the seven seas—I’m thinking in alphabetical order—build a grand fort, and traipse through lush jungles. That was day one.
When Eddie introduced his new best friend to his mother, she said Dog could not stay—the yard is too small. Poor Dog. Poor Eddie. Eddie keeps thinking about Dog and it is a good bet that Dog thinks a lot about Eddie. The next day, Dog returns to Eddie. Mom stands her ground. Dog needs a bigger yard and a better home. Mom’s imagination and creativity has taken back seat t her larger practical side. She can’t see the blossoming relationship between Eddie and Dog or how important it is to the new friends. Instead of working with the yard, she instantly says it is too small.
Dog is trying as hard as he can to keep his friendship with Eddie alive. Good friendships should never die—they are too hard to cultivate. But Eddie’s mom is consistently saying no to a dog. Do dogs make her nose sneeze and her eyes cry? Maybe mom really is concerned with Dog’s happiness. Hm, I wonder what will happen next.
I love Eddie and Dog. They must belong together else, Dog would not make such grand gestures, would he? Dogs do love unconditionally. And Dog is a dog. You cannot beat logic. Eddie and Dog belong together. I bet Dog keeps trying until Eddie’s mom runs out of excuses and places for Dog to go.
The story is well-paced and the illustrations hit the mark on each and every page.The final spread is my favorite illustration. Eddie sits behind Dog as Dog flies his shiny red propeller plane to their next awesome adventure.. Dog is a cute, cuddly canine. He is the perfect size for Eddie. Dog loves adventures, just as Eddie wanted! The ending has an unexpected twist that I love. Dog can accomplish many fantabulous things in a short amount of time.
Children will love Eddie and Dog. They will be sad when Eddie is sent away, but after the first return—a wonderful twist—kids will keep smiling even when mom sends Eddie off several more times. Sometimes knowing the punch line can be fun. Kids will love Eddie and Dog, even to the point of wanting their own Dog (sorry Eddie). Parents can take heart. Eddie and Dog is an easy and fun read with moments needing sound effects only a parent can provide. Will Eddie and Dog become your child’s favorite book? Quit possibly so, at least until the next edition of an Eddie and Dog adventure hit bookstores. Enjoy!
EDDIE AND DOG. Text and illustrations copyright © 2013 by Alison Brown. Reproduced by permission of the US publisher, Capstone Young Readers, North Mankato, MN.
Purchase Eddie and Dog at Amazon
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Learn more about Eddie and Dog HERE.
Meet the author/illustrator, Alison Brown, at her website: http://www.littletiger.co.uk/authors/alison-brown
Find more good books at the Capstone Young Readers website: http://www.capstonepub.com/
Capstone Young Reader is an imprint of Capstone: http://www.capstonepub.com/
Eddie and Dog was originally published in Great Britain by Little Tiger Press in 12/18/2013.
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Also by Alison Brown
I Love You Night and Day
Mighty Mo
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copyright © 2014 by Sue Morris/Kid Lit Reviews
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By: Bruce Black,
on 7/13/2014
Can you accept imperfection? Can you accept that you'll need to revise again and again (and still again), that the word you're looking for may not appear until the twentieth or thirtieth draft? Can you accept that one day your writing will flow like wine and the next day the well may run dry and all you can do is sit at your desk and stare for hours at an empty screen? Can you accept that
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By: Keith Schoch ,
on 3/3/2013
"...A website about children, written for children. It portrays life during the Holocaust from the viewpoint of children who lived in the ghetto, while attempting to make the complex experience of life in the ghetto as accessible as possible to today’s children.
Along with the description of the hardships of ghetto life, it also presents the courage, steadfastness and creativity involved in the children’s lives. One of the most important messages to be learned is that despite the hardships, there were those who struggled to maintain humanitarian and philanthropic values, care for one another, and continue a cultural and spiritual life."
By examining artifacts, writings, and first hand interviews, students gain an understanding of the "anything-to-survive" mentality which the ghetto created and demanded of its inhabitants. Students can either explore freely, taking advantage of the interactive elements, or additionally respond in writing using the printable handouts. I chose to download the handouts, available in Word format, and tweaked them according to my students' strengths and needs.. 
By: Karen Cioffi,
on 12/19/2012
Focus, determination, and perseverance are essential to just about every aspect of your life. Each characteristic is unique and together create a synergy.
Focus is one’s ability to concentrate exclusively on a particular thing through effort or attention.
Determination is an unchanging intention to achieve a goal or desired end.
Perseverance takes determination a step beyond by using steady and ongoing actions over a long period of time to ensure its intention is accomplished. It continues on through ups and downs.
These elements combined with positive thinking and projection can be an unstoppable force.
I’m a huge fan of positive thinking and projection. I believe our mind has a great influence over our well being and the direction our life can take. Granted, it’s not always easy to harness that influence, but there is enough content out there, including The Secret, to at least strive to think positive and project.
For example, Jack Canfield and co-creator Mark Victor Hansen, of Chicken Soup for the Soul, were rejected 144 times from publishers. Finally, in 1993, their book was accepted. Since they were in debt and couldn’t afford a publicist, they did their own promotion. In 1995, they won the Abby Award and the Southern California Publicist Award.
In a teleconference I attended with Jack Canfield as the speaker, he said he and his co-author created vision boards of what they wanted. They even took a copy of the New York Times Best Selling Page, whited out the #1 spot, and replaced it with Chicken Soup for the Soul. They put copies of it everywhere, even in the toilet. They had focus, determination, perseverance, and they envisioned and projected success. The rest is history.
On a much smaller scale, my daughter and co-author of Day’s End Lullaby, Robyn, practices the philosophy of The Secret. For ten years she dreamed of being in the audience of the Oprah show. She actually got tickets twice, but for one reason or another she was unable to attend. It didn’t stop her though; she persevered and kept trying. She knew one day she’d accomplish her goal and she did.
So, what has this to do with you and me as writers? Plenty.
The elements for obtaining your goals are the same whether for business, pleasure, or writing. Just about every writer has heard the adage: it’s not necessarily the best writers who succeed, it’s the writers who persevere.
Be focused and determined on your writing goals. Have a ‘success’ mindset. This means to project success, along with taking all the necessary steps to becoming a successful and effective writer. And, don’t let rejection stop you – persevere.
~~~~~
By: wizardhere,
on 12/12/2012
Lucky Can a terrier named Lucy bounce back from some bad luck. “Lucky” the illustrated children’s book by Craig Inglis is a puppy tale any child will love. With an easy-to-read story and beautiful illustrations by Richard Kinsey, this uplifting, enlightening picture book shows children that they can overcome even the most challenging of problems [...]
Image by Dana Lookadoo - Yo! Yo! SEO via Flickr
What are you determined to do?
By: Martha Alderson, M.A.,
on 8/24/2010
The further I put myself out there teaching, writing, consulting, living, the more vulnerable I feel.
By: Adventures in Children's Publishing,
on 4/16/2010
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By: Eva Lopez,
on 4/14/2010
Title: The Farewell Symphony
Author: Anna Harwell Celenza
Illustrator: Joann E. Kitchel
Hardcover: 32 pages
Publisher: Charlesbridge Publishing (September 2000)
Reading Level: 4-8
Theme: Music, Determination, Patience
I believe every sheet of music has a story of its own. The Farewell Symphony, has a unique story as well. A story about a prince who kept his musicians away from his family for far too long, and even though they had missed their families so very much there wasn't much they could have done; especially if they wanted to keep their jobs. A very unfair trade-off right? Having no choice, but to stay away from your family for a very long time or else. A wonderful story with very vibrant illustrations that are framed in different borders.
A great read-aloud and what's great about this book is that includes a CD so you can go along with the Symphony.
Hey if you love music and want to introduced something different then this is your book.
Enjoy!
Excerpt: Haydn is ask to speak on behalf of the musicians to the king.
By: Eva Lopez,
on 4/13/2010
Title: Trouble with Trolls
Author and Illustrator: Jan Brett
Hardcover: 32 pages
Publisher: Penguin Group (October 1999)
Reading Level: 4-8
Theme: Read-aloud, Adventure, Courage , Determination, Love
Jan Brett illustrations are so unique and lovely--full of details. The way she tells her stories are very much entertaining and it never gets boring!
Trouble with Trolls, tell the story of Treva and the trouble she had with five trolls that wanted to take her dog, Tuufi, and make him theirs. But Treva had other plans, and due to her cleverness, she outdid the trolls. A great story for read-aloud, or just to be read individually.
But remember, keep your eye on the little hedgehog.
Enjoy!
Excerpt: The five trolls and Treva
By: Eva Lopez,
on 4/12/2010
Title: The Yellow Star: The Legend of King Christian X of Denmark
Author: Carmen Agra Deedy
Illustrator: Henri Sorensen
Hardcover: 32 pages
Publisher: Peachtree Publisher (September 2000)
Reading Level: 8-12
Theme: WWII, Courage, Determination, Denmark, History, War
WWII was a war against not a country but against a group of people. But did you know that in Denmark, the only people that resided there were Danes; whether being of different color skins, nationalities, and even genders, they were all Danes in the end.
WWII was a terrible war and once it is written down, it became part of history.
The Yellow Star, a story about the stance the Denmark's king took to protect his people. As I was reading it, I became to admire the king more and more. To stand up to Hitler for his people; the courage that must have taken and because his people loved him so, they too followed in his king's footsteps.
An amazing story about courage, and the determination a king and his people did to protect all Danes; as well as beautiful illustration that help tell this great story.
Enjoy!Excerpt from the book: Nazi soldiers arrive in Denmark
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As I sit down to write, I think about how I want my words to matter and resonate with readers. As my laptop grabs my new document file and I settle down in my recliner with a zero calorie beverage, I start to think about what I might say to writers and others about writing. [...]
By: Debbie,
on 8/8/2008
Though I am a disciplined exerciser, I m not an athlete. But I am addicted to the Summer Olympics every 4 years. It really is all about my admiration for discipline and indestructible determination.
Most viewers of the Olympics don’t really think about what it takes for each athlete to even make it to these games. I know that years of training, winning competitions and sacrificing what we’d call a “normal life” for long periods of time are involved.
Can you imagine what it must be like to participate in those opening ceremonies, marching proudly with your country’s flag? It must be surreal. I often think of the same thing when a baseball player walks onto the field to play in his first pro game. What must he be thinking about the experience and privilege to play?
Being a champion at anything - sports or otherwise - requires some basic talent and a whole lot of work, motivation, focus, repetition, support and sacrifice. Is it all worth it? Just ask someone who just won an Olympic Gold or who achieved some other spectacular goal in his or her life. I think that’ll be a firm YES.
Hmmm, I think I’m getting inspired to do something great…
By: Jenny Turner,
on 8/7/2008
By: Jenny Turner,
on 8/4/2008
By: Jenny Turner,
on 2/20/2007
I spend a couple hours a day surfing the Internet looking for articles, opportunities, and information on the book and publishing industry. I find articles on marketing, promotions, events, etc. It's all great to know and I love the learning, but I can't help but wonder why there aren't more pieces on the actual reason we write for the public.
The industry organizations focus on style, technique, and skill. Those things are crucial to what we do and our potential for success, but recently I have found that there is something dramatically missing from what aspiring authors are being taught. It's about entertainment. That's right, you heard me. We write books to entertain readers. Did you forget that? Our goal should be to make readers feel something…to laugh, to cry, to shiver in eerie expectancy.
I have read several books lately that, while technically sound, they did not even remotely entertain me. The authors' overall performances were stale and one-dimensional.
Look at it from the angle of someone watching a movie. We go to the theater or rent DVD's because we thrive on the multi-dimensional aspects of the film. We cringe at the sound of a bone crunching punch. We sigh in anticipation along with lovers on the brink of embracing passionately. We escape into the action for that amount of time.
It should be the same with books. Readers pick up novels looking for something different, a diversion. Why isn't that as important to writers as it used to be?
Next time you sit down to write, consider this: You are an acting troupe. You are the writer, the director, and the actors. Put yourself into this setting and utilize the skills and demands of each role to increase the impact and presentation of your work.
As the writer, make certain your words are skillfully presented. Hone your grammatical and technical skills to perfection and you will eliminate the potential for distraction.
As the director, consider each and every action and ensure the proper level of reaction. Take extra care to ensure that everything happens for a reason and be the guiding hand in leading your actors through their performances.
As the actors, and this is most important, immerse yourself into each character's role. Be the character as you write. Play the scenes over and over in your mind, rehearsing them until you are living them. Then, and only then will you present your audience with a stellar and Oscar worthy performance.
One thing you must always remember is that you are writing for the reader. They are your audience and if you desire them to offer their loyalty and money to you on future performances, you must always cater to them. For, without readers, you have no job as an author.
By: Jenny Turner,
on 1/21/2007
For February, we want to experience the ecstasy of relationships through your words. Send us your romantic short...but it's not just about romance. We want frisky romance that's fun and flirtatious!
Every author at every level should be committed to keeping their name in front of readers. Are you between books? Looking for a way to revive characters from books that have been out for a while? Want to introduce new characters for upcoming books? Looking for a way to build your readership? Have we got a promotional opportunity for you!
Echelon Press would like to publish your "Fast and Frisky" February story. The fast part means you have until February 1, 2007 to submit your story of 3000-6000 words. The winner will be notified by February 2, 2007 and have 5 days to edit/revise the story. Echelon Press will publish your story in its e-book division on February 12, 2007. Simple!
Send your submissions as a Word (doc) attachment to [email protected]. Your cover letter should be in the body of an e-mail. Cover letters that do not adhere to professional standards will disqualify the submission from further consideration.
Our only real request is that romantic flirtation be the catalyst for your story! Stories must adhere to the following guidelines.
Standard Manuscript format:
File saved in Word format (.doc) or (.rtf)
8 ½ x 11 page
Times New Roman 12pt font/black
1-inch margin on all sides/ 1.5 line spacing
Align text left, do not justify (aligning text both left and right)
Header containing title, author name and page number
Capital letters at the beginning of sentences and proper nouns
Show new paragraphs by indenting first line of new paragraph .3. Do not add blank line between paragraphs.
Show scene breaks with * * * * centered in the appropriate line.
All cover letters must include:
Name (and pseudonym if applicable)
Mailing address
Phone number
E-mail address (if available)
Web address (if available)
By: Jenny Turner,
on 1/14/2007
By: Jenny Turner,
on 12/16/2006
How would you describe your mental health? As an underworked author and an overworked publisher, I would say my mental health is sketchy at best. LOL I find myself scouring other author's web sites to see what they are doing and what I might mimic to propel myself to the top of ANY best seller list. I scour other publisher's sites to do the same. I am always looking for some germ of a clue to the "big secret." Who am I kidding?
My mother used to tell me that there would come a day when I realized I did NOT know everything. Thanks, Mom. (note the sarcastic tilt of my font) You were so right. Hope your happy. LOL
Well, I may not know everything, but I am sure as shootin' willin' to try. I have taken a new approach to my hours of scouring. I am no longer looking for ways to mimic, I do still sour, but I constantly remind myself that it is all part of my education. What does this have to do with mental stability? Oh, plenty!
I talk to so many authors and the majority of them are seriously seeking the quick fix to fame and fortune with their book(s). Come on people, there are no quick fixes. It's a lot of hard work and grueling hours of research, both for the material you write and for the business you strive to be an active participant in. Nothing is easy. Was it easy when you first learned to walk? Heck no. Like the rest of us, you probably fell down a lot. Riding a bike? Roller skating? Dating? Don't even get me started. We had to go through hours of grueling activities to become even remotely good at these and so many other things.
So why would you torture yourself with the myth that writing is easy and that just because you write a book, and a few people say it's a good read, that you will become an instant success and wildly rich. Let's ask Nora Roberts how long it took her to reach her level of comfort within the industry. Or even the wildly popular Christopher Paolini who fought his way in kicking and selling. No one did it for him, he worked his young little butt off and probably spent more than one night wishing he was old enough to drink. But he had an awesome support system and he had DETERMINATION!
Back to mental health. It is crucial to your success. Don't make the mistake of thinking this is easy and that it will be all fun. The more you want, the harder you must work. The more you succeed, the more people will talk about you, and it won't always be nice. But I can tell you that there is no greater joy than to look within yourself and find satisfaction and to know that you have done your very best.
Do whatever is necessary to keep your mind at peace, your body in good shape, and your entire being in balance. Meditate (it really isn't all that freaky), exercise, and eat healthy. It is the best defense against mental instability. I never thought I would say this, but my most productive days are begun with a 30 minute workout at Curves, a small, but healthy breakfast, and some quiet reflection on what I will accomplish during the rest of the day.
Do you have any special routines or rituals that you do faithfully to ensure you stay happy and healthy? What role does this play in your writing?
Keith, this is absolutely wonderful!! So glad you are blogging "Teach with Picture Books" regularly again.
Thanks, Carol! I knew I needed a break, but I'm glad to be back at it again! So many wonderful books to share, and so great to hear from readers and fellow educators.
Visiting from KidLit. Thanks for this needed round up.
Jennifer,
www.thejennyevolution.com