Showing posts with label literacy. Show all posts
Showing posts with label literacy. Show all posts

Friday, October 20, 2017

The Authors Show Launches US And Global Children, Teen, Adult Literacy Project, 'Give A Book, Get A Smile'

The new program will distribute donated books to children, teenagers and adults, both nationally and worldwide.

Low literacy is a staggering problem. According to the ProLiteracy website, children of parents with low literacy skills are more likely to get poor grades, have behavioral problems and drop out. 43% of adults with the lowest literacy levels live in poverty. In addition, an excess of 230 billion a year in health care cost is linked to low adult literacy. Danielle Hampson, Executive Producer of The Authors Show intends to bring authors together to help make a difference.

Through its newly launched “Give A Book Get A Smile” initiative, The Authors Show is calling on its large network of authors and publishing industry professionals to donate books to the project for distribution to children, teenagers and adults who are challenged with reading skills, or access to books.

"Give A Book Get A Smile" is a long-term project with multiple phases. Ms. Hampson is calling on authors to donate at least five books (fiction/non-fiction) either in the children category – age 4-12, or young adults for teens, or adult books. She especially welcomes self-help books, both in personal and business development. From a recipient standpoint, eighty percent of donated books within the USA will go to schools with a large student population of underprivileged children, troubled youth organizations, women shelters, and to the homeless community throughout the United States.  The balance of twenty percent will be earmarked for foreign distribution.

“I do volunteer work with an advanced leadership program for women in China that has a literacy project, and in my last trip to China I brought children books for them”, Hampson stated. “When I gave the books, I received such big smiles back that I immediately thought to start a project to help them, and the name 'Give A Book Get A Smile' sounded like a perfect fit. Upon my return to the U.S., with many literacy issues in our own back yard, I felt the need to also help people right here at home. In that I work in online media in the publishing industry, I knew I could leverage my 12+ years of contacts in this industry to bring this project to life.”

As more books are donated to the program, other phases will be implemented to expand the reach of the donations to local communities in all fifty states, Canada, and to more countries.  All recipients will be vetted to insure the books are needed and are indeed provided to those who do need them.

Danielle Hampson is available for media interviews and can be reached using the information below or by email at danielle@theauthorsshow.com. More information about “Give A Book Get A Smile” is available at http://www.GiveABookGetASmile.com.

About The Authors Show:

The Authors Show is a professional book marketing audio & video interview podcast in its 12th year. The interviews are professionally produced and broadcast worldwide through the show’s substantial marketing and publicity outreach.

Contact:

Danielle Hampson
Executive Producer
Danielle@TheAuthorsShow.com
www.TheAuthorsShow.com

Leia Mais…

Wednesday, September 20, 2017

Award Winning Children's Book Author Cindy C Murray Believes Recent Female Viking Discovery Lends Support To Girl Power

Murray utilizes girl power and science to promote literacy in Sophie And Scottie action adventure trilogy.

A recent article on the National Geographic website by Michael Greshko presented a story many people found surprising. The grave of a great Viking warrior was unearthed in Sweden. The gravesite contained all of the artifacts that might be attributed to a powerful Viking warrior. The surprise? The Viking warrior was a woman.

Some of the archaeologists could not bring themselves to believe that the bones found in the grave were those of a female. A DNA test was performed. That study, published in the American Journal of Physical Anthropology, proved conclusively the skeleton was female. It seems even some archaeologists still hold some gender bias.

Is "girl power" merely a recent "trendy" fad? Or could it be that females have always been equally capable, thus destroying our long held beliefs and cultural biases?

Cindy C. Murray, award winning author of the Sophie and Scottie trilogy, uses the concept of girl power, combined with fascinating scientific concepts, to create wildly engaging works of action and adventure-based fiction that kids will find irresistible. She believes that overcoming gender bias must start with teaching young people these long held, discriminatory beliefs simply don't hold up to scrutiny.

"What a great article (discovery) by Michael Greshko. It aligns with my main characters as being strong females who love a challenge with aspects of STEM (science, technology, engineering and math) in each book.  Children love to read about kids like Sophie and Scottie who are courageous and curious, which helps me to achieve my writing goals to keep kids reading and promote literacy."

Murray also utilizes her award winning series of action adventure children's books to promote literacy and good citizenship. She is passionate about helping kids by sharing engaging and imaginative adventure stories with young readers. Her creative storytelling is inspired by her two daughters and by the childhood adventures she shared with her six siblings. After receiving a Bachelor of Science degree in Business Administration, Cindy contributed her innovative marketing skills to several Fortune 500 companies until she made the choice to stay at home to raise her children - and to write children's books.

The Sophie and Scottie Series include three action adventure books: 'Adventures of the Monarch Mystery', 'Adventures of Something's Fishy' and 'Adventures of Sweet Tooth Rock'. The main characters, Sophie and Scottie, are 11 ½ year old twin sisters who live on a 10,000 acre sheep shearing ranch called Shear Heaven. The girls aren’t identical twins but have similar features. Their unique personalities complement each other as they share adventures and travel to exotic places.

Murray's work has won major industry awards. 'The Adventures of Sophie and Scottie Book Series' was awarded the 2017 Gold Family Choice Award. All of the books in the series have taken a Silver Mom's Choice Award. 'Sophie and Scottie's Adventures of the Monarch Mystery' won the 2016 International Book Awards Silver Medal in the Children-Adventure category, as well as qualifying as a 2015 Finalist from San Diego Book Awards for best published children's book.

Murray's upcoming author events include:

Poway Countryside Barn store, Poway CA: 1:30 to 5:00pm every Wednesday and Friday in September 2017.

Orange County Children’s Book Festival at Orange Coast College in Costa Mesa, CA: 9:30 to 1:00 Sunday October 1, 2017

"Reading about strong females isn’t new, but it is refreshing to see throughout history the important roles these women have had.  I emphasize this importance with my characters as good citizens who navigate through their adventures by empowering themselves while solving each mystery."

Cindy Murray is available for media interviews and can be reached using the information below or by email at cindy@cindycmurray.com. All of her books are available at Amazon. More information is available at her website at http://www.cindycmurray.com.

About Cindy C. Murray:

After receiving a Bachelor of Science degree in Business Administration, Cindy contributed her innovative marketing skills to several Fortune 500 companies. She writes from home and lives in Poway, California, with her husband, daughters, and two dogs.

Contact:

Cindy C. Murray
cindy@cindycmurray.com
http://www.cindycmurray.com

Leia Mais…

Wednesday, August 30, 2017

Cindy C Murray, Award Winning Author Of Action Adventure Children's Book Trilogy, Announces 2017 Gold Family Choice Award

Murray is passionate about sharing engaging and imaginative stories with young readers. She uses engaging action adventure children's books to promote literacy and good citizenship.

Multi-award winning children's book author Cindy C. Murray has announced 'The Adventures of Sophie and Scottie Book Series' recently won the 2017 Gold Family Choice Award. The FCA "recognizes the best products, services and resources for all members of a family . . ." The series scored 100 out of 110 points, a score considered by FCA to be extraordinary.

Murray utilizes her award winning series of action adventure children's books to promote literacy and good citizenship. It goes without saying that childhood literacy is extremely important. On their website, the National Education Association referenced a study by the National Center for Education Statistics showing that only 53 percent of children ages three to five were read to by a family member. On the same site it was reported that fourth-grade students' reading tests put 38 percent of students below the most basic reading level.

Murray is passionate about helping to change those appalling statistics by sharing engaging and imaginative adventure stories with young readers. Her creative storytelling is inspired by her two daughters and by the childhood adventures she shared with her six siblings. After receiving a Bachelor of Science degree in Business Administration, Cindy contributed her innovative marketing skills to several Fortune 500 companies until she made the choice to stay at home to raise her children - and to write children's books.

“I really enjoy visiting schools to meet with the kids about my award winning chapter book series," Murray stated. "We discuss writing techniques and how Sophie and Scottie are good citizens as the characters help solve the mysteries in each adventure.  There are lots of twists and turns in these books, which keeps the reader turning the page to see what happens next!”

The Sophie and Scottie Series include three action adventure books: 'Adventures of the Monarch Mystery', 'Adventures of Something's Fishy' and 'Adventures of Sweet Tooth Rock'. The main characters, Sophie and Scottie, are 11 ½ year old twin sisters who live on a 10,000 acre sheep shearing ranch called Shear Heaven. The girls aren’t identical twins but have similar features. Their unique personalities complement each other as they share adventures and travel to exotic places.

In addition to the 2017 Gold Family Choice Award, all of the books in the series have taken a Silver Mom's Choice Award. 'Sophie and Scottie's Adventures of the Monarch Mystery' won the 2016 International Book Awards Silver Medal in the Children-Adventure category, as well as qualifying as a 2015 Finalist from San Diego Book Awards for best published children's book.

Murray's upcoming author events include:

San Diego Festival of Books: August 26, 2017

Orange County Children's Book Festival: September 1, 2017

Poway Countryside Barn store, Poway CA: 1:30 to 5:00pm every Wednesday and Friday in September 2017.

“My goal with this book series is to promote literacy in a fun and entertaining way. Therefore, I will continue to attend book events and visit schools.  I’m currently writing my fourth book titled ‘Sophie and Scottie’s Adventures of the Twilight Safari’ which will be full of action and adventure to keep kids reading!”

Cindy Murray is available for media interviews and can be reached using the information below or by email at cindy@cindycmurray.com. All of her books are available at Amazon. More information is available at her website at http://www.cindycmurray.com.

About Cindy C. Murray:

After receiving a Bachelor of Science degree in Business Administration, Cindy contributed her innovative marketing skills to several Fortune 500 companies. She writes from home and lives in Poway, California, with her husband, daughters, and two dogs.

Contact:

Cindy C. Murray
cindy@cindycmurray.com
http://www.cindycmurray.com

Leia Mais…

Thursday, August 23, 2012

Award Winning Author Renée Pawlish Helps Parents And Teachers Find Good Books For Kids To Read At GetYourKidToRead.com

GetYourKidToRead.com is a unique concept, in that children’s books by new authors are reviewed and rated by a peer group of parents, teachers and young readers before being placed on the suggested reading list

Award winning author Renée Pawlish has announced the formation of a new book site for parents, teachers and kids. GetYourKidsToRead.com provides reviews and suggested reading lists for children’s book buyers. Reviews are provided by a peer group of parents, teachers and kids.

‘I can’t find good books for kids to read’ is a phrase used often by parents and teachers. Almost everyone has heard of The Hunger Games, Harry Potter, and the Twilight series.  But there are a lot of other great books out there.  In fact, over a million books were published last year alone.  But how would readers ever hear about those books and how would a parent or teacher know which books are right for a particular child?  Shoppers can spend many hours on Amazon reading through thousands of reviews looking for that ‘just right’ book.  Now GetYourKidToRead.com has made it easy for shoppers to find that book.

“So many kids these days” Pawlish stated, “are being inundated with electronic media. It's important to encourage kids to read, too.  I started GetYourKidsToRead.com in order to introduce kids to new authors. I volunteered at an elementary school last year and many of the teachers were discouraged by the lack of good books for kids to read.  I started GetYourKidsToRead.com to help introduce teachers, parents and kids to new, quality stories.  At GetYourKidsToRead.com, we highlight great books by undiscovered authors.”

The concept is a simple one. By joining GetYourKidsToRead.com, shoppers can access a list of reviewed and recommended books for young people. The books have been reviewed and recommended through a thorough screening process. Recommendations and reviews are provided by parents, teachers and kids. This peer group fills out a two-page questionnaire regarding the book in question.

“The team of parent, teacher, and kid readers,” continued Pawlish, “evaluates every book they read and rates it on a scale of 1 to 10 (where 10 is the best possible score).  To make our list, books must have a cumulative score of at least 8.”

More information is available at the GetYourKidToRead.com. Searchers can access the list by filling out the form provided. Renée Pawlish is available for media interviews and can be reached using the information below, or by email at renee@reneepawlish.com.

Profile:

Award winning author Renée Pawlish was born in California, but has lived most of her life in Colorado. When she's not hiking, cycling, or chasing ballplayers for autographs, she is writing mysteries and thrillers. She has also published a middle grade novel. Renée loves to travel and has visited numerous countries around the world. She is the founder of GetYourKidToRead.com.

Contact:

Renee Pawlish
www.ReneePawlish.com
renee@reneepawlish.com

Leia Mais…

Friday, September 10, 2010

Jennifer Swanson Offers No Charge Curriculum Guide To Teachers And Homeschoolers For Award Winning Penny And Rio Series


Jennifer Swanson’s award winning Penny and Rio early chapter book series features interactive books that lead to exceptional learning. Swanson recently released the third book in the series, Penny And Rio: The Diamond Collar Adventure. For this release she teamed up with Ripple Reader, The Pawsitive Life, The Homeschool Handbook and DogFriendlyCompanies.com to offer a children's contest. No-charge curriculum guides are also available to teachers and home schoolers.

Date, 2010, Jacksonville FL] The Penny And Rio series of books feature interactive childrens books that lead to exceptional learning. Penny and Rio: The Diamond Collar Adventure, the third book in the series, was released in July 2010. Jennifer Swanson, author of the award winning series, has teamed up with Ripple Reader, The Pawsitive Life, The Homeschool Handbook and DogFriendlyCompanies.com to sponsor a contest for children. She is also offering a no-charge curriculum guide to teachers and homeschoolers.

The contest began on August 1st and will run through September 30, 2010. Children are invited to create their own bejeweled dog collar and to submit either a hand-drawing or a photograph of their creation.

Entries will be judged in three categories:
1) Most creative
2) Most colorful
3) Most beautiful

Three $50 giftcards to Barnes and Noble.com will be given to first place winner. Additional prizes to be given by drawing include:

1 of 20 free e-books of the Penny and Rio series from Ripple Reader (www.RippleReader.com)

One $20 giftcard to www.alldogsbigandsmall.com

Two complete autographed sets of the Penny and Rio 3-book series

Three autographed copies of Penny and Rio: The Diamond Collar Adventure

Winning drawings will be published in The Homeschool Handbook (www.thehomeschoolhandbook.com), The Pawstive Life (www.thepawsitivelife.com) and on www.dogfriendlycompanies.com

"Finding interactive, fun ways to teach children about reading and writing," Ms. Swanson stated, "can be very difficult. With the curriculum I've designed around the Penny and Rio books, kids will learn vocabulary, plot and character development, predicting, and even make text-to-text connections all while enjoying the antics of my dynamic canine detectives. I am thrilled to be able to provide these tools to teachers and homeschoolers as a way to spice up their curriculum"

Penny And Rio: The Diamond Collar Mystery was released July 25th by Mirror Publishing. The book is available on Amazon.com, Barnes and Noble.com and at the authors website at www.PennyAndRio.com. The first two books in the series were recently released in Thailand. Penny and Rio: The Mysterious Backyard Meeting and Penny and Rio: The Locked Doghouse Mystery have been translated to Thai for marketing and distribution to the children of Thailand. The series is also being distributed in France by Mariposa Press.

Ms. Swanson’s books have won numerous industry awards. Both of her previous books, Penny and Rio: The Mysterious Backyard Meeting, and Penny and Rio: The Locked Doghouse Mystery, have won a Mom’s Choice Silver Awards for Juvenile Fiction – Early Reader. The Mom’s Choice Awards esteemed panel of judges includes educators, media and other experts as well as parents, children, librarians, performing artists, producers, medical and business professionals, authors, scientists and others. They have both been awarded The Dove Foundation’s Family-Approved Seal.

The series has received rave reviews from both teachers and homeschoolers. Jennifer Timm, a mom who homeschools, recently stated "As a home-schooling mom of five children, I’m always looking for new and fun curriculum that will excite my kids. Since one of my kids is dyslexic, I have struggled to find any books that will spark her interest enough to read from start to finish; without giving up in frustration! I FINALLY found it with “Penny and Rio: The Mysterious Backyard Meeting”. ...Using the curriculum Jennifer provided, we spent an entire week going over different themes of the book, role-playing and coming up with new adventures for Penny and Rio to go on. It also included writing assignments and a readers quiz at the end. My dyslexic daughter had so much fun during our 'Penny and Rio Week', I now have a child who loves to read. I highly recommend it to any home-schooling family."

For more information about the third release visit www.PennyAndRio.com. For information about the contest and to enter, please visit www.pennyandrio.com/contest Teachers and homeschoolers can download the curriculum at the website at www.pennyandrio.com/homeschoolers.

Ms. Swanson is available for interview and can be reached using the information below or by email at PennyAndRio@yahoo.com. More information is available at her website at www.PennyAndRio.com. Her books are available Amazon.com, Barnes and Noble, IndiePendent Books and at her website.

Profile:

Jennifer Swanson has been writing since the age of 5. A 1990 graduate of the U.S. Naval Academy, Jennifer pursued her other love of science and became a prep school chemistry teacher. Her Navy career took her to Norfolk, VA where she was stationed with her husband, Jon.

Her life changed forever when they adopted Penny, their first dog. Penny was a wonderful addition to their family and less than a year later, they adopted Rio, her best pal. Jennifer kept writing during the next several years as she raised three children, supported her naval officer husband and taught both part and full time.

Today Ms. Swanson continues to work on the Penny and Rio series and recently received her Masters in Education. Jennifer is employed as a middle school science instructor for John Hopkins University’s Center for Talented Youth.

Jennifer is an active member of the Society of Children’s Book Writers. She regularly attends the Florida branch of SCBWI’s conferences in Orlando and Miami. She is also a member of the Florida Writer’s Association.

Contact:

Jennifer Swanson
13780 Harbor Creek Place
Jacksonville, FL 32224
Phone (904) 992-6955
Web: www.PennyAndRio.com
Email: PennyAndRio@yahoo.com

Leia Mais…

Tuesday, July 20, 2010

Jennifer Swanson, Award Winning Author Of The Penny and Rio Series, Celebrates Third Release With Contest For Children


Jennifer Swanson’s award winning Penny and Rio early chapter book series features interactive books that lead to exceptional learning. The month of July 2010 marks the release of the third book in the series, Penny And Rio: The Diamond Collar Adventure. For this release she will team up with Ripple Reader, The Pawsitive Life, The Homeschool Handbook and DogFriendlyCompanies.com to offer a children's contest

The Penny And Rio series of books feature interactive childrens books that lead to exceptional learning. Penny and Rio: The Diamond Collar Adventure, the third book in the series will be released in July 2010. Jennifer Swanson, author of the award winning series, will be teaming up with Ripple Reader, The Pawsitive Life, The Homeschool Handbook and DogFriendlyCompanies.com to sponsor a contest for children.

The contest will run from August 1st to September 30th. Children will be invited to create their own bejeweled dog collar and to submit either a hand-drawing or a photograph of their creation.

Entries will be judged in three categories:

1) Most creative
2) Most colorful
3) Most beautiful

Three $50 giftcards to Barnes and Noble.com will be given to first place winner. Additional prizes to be given by drawing include:

1 of 20 free e-books of the Penny and Rio series from Ripple Reader (www.RippleReader.com)

One $20 giftcard to www.alldogsbigandsmall.com

Two complete autographed sets of the Penny and Rio 3-book series

Three autographed copies of Penny and Rio: The Diamond Collar Adventure

Winning drawings will be published in The Homeschool Handbook (www.thehomeschoolhandbook.com), The Pawstive Life (www.thepawsitivelife.com) and on www.dogfriendlycompanies.com

"I am thrilled," stated Ms. Swanson, "to announce the release of the third book in the Penny and Rio series. This exciting adventure will have kids digging, sniffing and jumping through obstacles right along with the canine detectives as they clear the hurdles to complete this adventure on time. The suspenseful ending will throw children a loop as the dogs use their heads to solve the problem like never before. I hope all the kids will enjoy the further adventures of this series that keeps my wonderful pets, Penny and Rio, near and dear to my heart."

Penny And Rio: The Diamond Collar Mystery will be released July 25th by Mirror Publishing. The book will be available on Amazon.com, Barnes and Noble.com and at the authors website at www.PennyAndRio.com

The first two books in the series were recently released in Thailand. Penny and Rio: The Mysterious Backyard Meeting and Penny and Rio: The Locked Doghouse Mystery have been translated to Thai for marketing and distribution to the children of Thailand. The series is also being distributed in France by Mariposa Press.

Ms. Swanson’s books have won numerous industry awards. Both of her previous books, Penny and Rio: The Mysterious Backyard Meeting, and Penny and Rio: The Locked Doghouse Mystery, have won a Mom’s Choice Silver Awards for Juvenile Fiction – Early Reader. The Mom’s Choice Awards esteemed panel of judges includes educators, media and other experts as well as parents, children, librarians, performing artists, producers, medical and business professionals, authors, scientists and others. They have both been awarded The Dove Foundation’s Family-Approved Seal.

In addition to writing books about dogs, Jennifer is committed to helping animals. She firmly believes in adopting dogs, and has taught her children the same values. In support of this goal, Jennifer donates a portion of her proceeds to a local Jacksonville pet rescue organization, G.R.E.A.T Rescue. The organization rescues and rehabilitates golden retrievers and places them in their new and forever homes. Jennifer has also recently teamed with Pawsitive Pets, a local organization that takes dogs into schools to help children learn to read.

"I hope my books," continued Ms. Swanson, "will inspire children to think creatively and perhaps better understand the canine world. Maybe when they see their dogs sniffing and digging next time, they will wonder if they have dog detectives of their own."

For more information about the third release visit www.PennyAndRio.com. For information about the contest and to enter, please visit www.pennyandrio.com/contest

Ms. Swanson is available for interview and can be reached using the information below or by email at PennyAndRio@yahoo.com. More information is available at her website at www.PennyAndRio.com. Her books are available Amazon.com, Barnes and Noble, IndiePendent Books and at her website.

Profile:

Jennifer Swanson has been writing since the age of 5. A 1990 graduate of the U.S. Naval Academy, Jennifer pursued her other love of science and became a prep school chemistry teacher. Her Navy career took her to Norfolk, VA where she was stationed with her husband, Jon.

Her life changed forever when they adopted Penny, their first dog. Penny was a wonderful addition to their family and less than a year later, they adopted Rio, her best pal. Jennifer kept writing during the next several years as she raised three children, supported her naval officer husband and taught both part and full time.

Today Ms. Swanson continues to work on the Penny and Rio series and recently received her Masters in Education. Jennifer is employed as a middle school science instructor for John Hopkins University’s Center for Talented Youth.

Jennifer is an active member of the Society of Children’s Book Writers. She regularly attends the Florida branch of SCBWI’s conferences in Orlando and Miami. She is also a member of the Florida Writer’s Association.

Contact:

Jennifer Swanson
13780 Harbor Creek Place
Jacksonville, FL 32224
Phone: 904-992-6955
Web: www.PennyAndRio.com
Email: PennyAndRio@yahoo.com

Leia Mais…

Tuesday, May 11, 2010

Author Linda Bryan Sabin Offers Book Giveaway To Schools In Honor Of National Childrens Book Week


Linda Bryan Sabin, author of The Sound Snatcher and CEO of Peeking Kitty Books, will offer a book giveaway to winning school classes in honor of National Children's Book Week. Entry dates for the contest are May 10 through May 28, 2010. Winners will be announced June 4, 2010

Linda Bryan Sabin, author of The Sound Snatcher and CEO of Peeking Kitty Books, will offer a book giveaway to winning school classes in honor of National Children's Book Week. Winning classes will be awarded a copy of The Sound Snatcher for each member of the class. The contest, designed to promote a love of reading and fun with words, is open to preschool children ages 3 to 5 and elementary schools K through 3.

“I want to give teachers a fun and useful tool to support literacy,” stated Ms. Sabin, “and spark imagination. Limited funding in schools across the country makes access to new books a challenge and I want to give children access to their very own hardcopy, environmentally friendly book.”

To enter the contest, teachers can visit www.peekingkitty.com to download contest forms and entry codes. Once this has been done, each teacher should have students write a short 4 to 10 sentence paragraph that answer the questions:

1. Why is reading important?
2. What I like most about reading or learning to read is . . .

Teachers can then email the top 3 responses to the questions to Ms. Sabin. Entry dates for the contest are May 10 through May 28, 2010. Winners will be announced June 4, 2010. Once a winner has been chosen, a book will be provided for each member of the class. Full details are available at the Peeking Kitty website.

The Sound Snatcher was written to help parents and teachers initiate real conversation with children and to build stronger bonds. The book features 'Let's Talk About The Book' pages. These pages provide simple questions for parents to ask their child to encourage discovery, learning and better one-to-one connections. It also contains 'The Words I Heard' pages. These pages offer a list of vocabulary words and definitions. Sabin uses fun, imaginative, multi-syllable words carefully chosen to expand a child's love of words and reading.

"I wrote this book," Ms. Sabin continued, "because I love writing and reading books that expose children to vibrant, expressive language and the use of 'real words'.”

Review copies of the book are available to teachers by contacting Linda Bryan Sabin at linda@peekingkitty.com. Ms. Sabin is available for media interview and can be contacted using the information below. The Sound Snatcher is available at the website.

The Sound Snatcher
Linda Bryan Sabin
Peeking Kitty Books.
ISBN: 978-0-9841633-0-4

Profile:

Linda Bryan Sabin is a born teacher and writer. She currently lives in the Bay Area California with her husband, their big dog and very small cat. Linda began her career as an elementary school teacher and now works as a leadership consultant for school reform

Linda’s goal with Peeking Kitty Books is to promote a love of language and spark imagination and discovery. Linda does not dumb down books for children. She gives readers a rich tapestry of expression through the use of rhythm, multi-syllable and sometimes nonsensical words.

The Peeking Kitty is not a primary character in any of Linda’s books but he is a major feature in all of them. Readers can hunt for the kitty on every page. He exemplifies the spirit of why Linda writes; the magic, discovery and confidence gained by discovering the power of words. Linda’s stories are written to stimulate imagination, curiosity and challenge readers to look at the ordinary with a new perception.

Linda believes that real learning happens when children experience a book read out loud, and have the opportunity to talk about what they just read. Linda’s goal is to move beyond literacy and develop articulate expressive communicators. In a generation of texting and tweeting, she believes it is important to promote the use of real words and creative expression.

Contact:

Linda Bryan Sabin
Peeking Kitty Books
www.peekingkitty.com
linda@peekingkitty.com

Leia Mais…

Monday, May 10, 2010

Author Renee Hand To Allow Children To Create A Character For Her Next Book In The Joe-Joe Nut Series


Renee Hand, author of the Crypto-Capers and Joe-Joe Nut series, will allow children to create a character for the book. Children can submit their characters and encourage family, friends and the public to vote for their favorites. The winning entry will be featured in the next installment of the book, and the book will be dedicated to the winner

In honor of book 1 of award-winning author Renee Hand’s new lower elementary children’s book series, The Adventures of Joe-Joe Nut and Biscuit Bill, The Great Pie Catastrophe, author Renee Hand is hosting a contest for children to become characters in one of her cases. The opportunity is for children to be able to create their own animal suspect.

The Joe-Joe Nut series is based on animal detectives who solve cases. The books are educational and fun using topics that children will learn from, such as animal tracks (for book 1) and rocks and minerals (for book 2, coming in the fall of 2010). Every book is unique, entertaining and yet full of interesting information that children will love to learn about.

For the contest, children will submit a character they created. The author will then post submissions on her website. Family, friends and the public will be able to read and vote for their favorites. The submission that receives the most votes will become a character in the next book.

"I decided to hold this contest," stated Ms. Hand, "in honor of my new lower elementary series titled, The Adventures of Joe-Joe Nut and Biscuit Bill, Case #1 The Great Pie Catastrophe. I am an author who writes for my readers. I want them to be involved in my books and make a connection with the characters. It is important to me. My goal is to not only entertain children, but to educate them as well, and all of my books accomplish this goal. This contest will help children understand the process an author goes through in creating a character and will be able to work with me on the development of that character in the story. As a thank you to the winner, not only will their character be a part of the story but it will be dedicated to them as well. The winner will also receive a signed copy from me. I am excited about this contest and wish luck to all. I look forward to reading the entries."

The contest begins on May 9 in honor of National Children's Book Week and will end on June 10th to allow time for everyone to develop and promote their characters.

For more information visit the author's website at www.ReneeAHand.com. Entries for characters should be submitted by email to thecryptocapersseries@gmail.com.

Renee Hand is available for media interviews and school visits. She can be reached using the information below or by email at TheCryptoCapersSeries@gmail.com. More information on the Crypto-Caper series and the Joe-Joe Nut series is available at Ms. Hand’s website at www.ReneeAHand.com. All of Ms. Hand’s books are available at any bookstore or from her website.

Profile:

Renee Hand is an award-winning author and educator, She has been writing for over twenty years and has been a published author for five years with six works published. She writes for various chronicles and newsletters, as well as writing reviews for authors of children´s books.

Ms. Hand’s awards include a Best 2006 Fantasy Romance award for Magic Hearts. Her second romance novel, Seduction of the Lonely Heart won a National Literary Award for Best Romance of 2007. The first book in her children's series, The Crypto-Capers in The Case of the Missing Sock, won a preferred choice award for 2009 by Creative Child Magazine.

Ms Hand has appeared in over 40 newspapers and blogs. She has been interviewed on ABC channel 12 and on various radio stations including Blog Talk Radio and The Children's Author Show. She has participated in over 100 events, which include book signings, libraries, book stores, charities, schools and festivals all over the United States. She is a member of the SCBWI (Society of Children´s Book Writers and Illustrators).

Contact:

Renee Hand
Web: www.ReneeAHand.com
Email: TheCryptoCapersSeries@gmail.com

Leia Mais…

Friday, May 7, 2010

Jennifer Swanson, Award Winning Author Of The Penny and Rio Series, Celebrates Childrens Book Week With Curriculum Giveaway


Jennifer Swanson’s award winning Penny and Rio early chapter book series features interactive books that lead to exceptional learning. To celebrate National Children's Book Week, she will be offering a curriculum giveaway. She also announces the release of the third book in the series, Penny and Rio: The Diamond Collar Adventure

To celebrate National Children's Book Week, Jennifer Swanson, author of the award winning Penny and Rio Series, will be offering a free copy of her curriculum suggestions to anyone who purchases a copy of Penny and Rio: The Mysterious Backyard Meeting from her website. Designed by the author, Jennifer Swanson, M. S. Ed., the packet includes exciting and interesting ideas for how to use the Penny and Rio books in traditional or homeschool classrooms. Provoking discussion questions, interactive role-playing assignments, even suggestions of similar books for text-to-text connections will engage students and get them thinking like the dynamic canine detectives.

"Teachers and parents", stated Ms. Swanson, "will enjoy using these curriculum suggestions in any learning environment. In no time children will be seeing dogs in a new and fascinating light. Perhaps they will see they have a dog detective of their very own, right in their own backyard. The possibilities are limited only by a child's imagination."

The third installment in the award-winning Penny and Rio early chapter book series, Penny and Rio: The Diamond Collar Adventure, will be released in July 2010. In this book, the dynamic canine detectives escape from the backyard for the first time in search of a valuable diamond collar lost by Hannah, the beautiful show dog. As Penny and Rio search for the misplaced treasure, they encounter Ted, the lovable but clumsy collie, Sarge, the belligerent and forceful German shepherd, and an obstacle of epic proportions. Just when it feels like Penny has reached the end of the adventure, the prize is ripped from her grasp. Solving this new problem will take all the ingenuity and determination these dog detectives can muster.

"I am thrilled," continued Ms. Swanson, "to announce the release of the third book in the Penny and Rio series. This exciting adventure will have readers digging, sniffing and jumping through obstacles right along with the canine detectives as they clear the hurdles to complete this adventure on time. The suspenseful ending will throw the reader a loop as the intrepid pet detectives must use their heads to solve the problem like never before."

The release of the third Penny and Rio book will be quickly followed by the release of the first two Penny and Rio books in Thailand in late summer 2010. Penny and Rio: The Mysterious Backyard Meeting and Penny and Rio: The Locked Doghouse Mystery have been translated to Thai for marketing and distribution to the children of Thailand for later this year. The series is also being distributed in France by Mariposa Press.

Ms. Swanson’s books have won numerous industry awards. Both of her books, Penny and Rio: The Mysterious Backyard Meeting, and Penny and Rio: The Locked Doghouse Mystery, have won a Mom’s Choice Silver Awards for Juvenile Fiction – Early Reader. The Mom’s Choice Awards esteemed panel of judges includes educators, media and other experts as well as parents, children, librarians, performing artists, producers, medical and business professionals, authors, scientists and others. They have both been awarded The Dove Foundation’s Family-Approved Seal.

In addition to writing books about dogs, Jennifer is committed to helping animals. She firmly believes in adopting dogs, and has taught her children the same values. In support of this goal, Jennifer donates a portion of her proceeds to a local Jacksonville pet rescue organization, G.R.E.A.T Rescue. The organization rescues and rehabilitates golden retrievers and places them in their new and forever homes. Jennifer has also recently teamed with Pawsitive Pets, a local organization that takes dogs into schools to help children learn to read.

To participate in the National Childrens Book Week curriculum giveaway, visit www.pennyandrio.com/buy and purchase The Mysterious Backyard Meeting. Be sure to put your request for the curriculum in the comments section.

Ms. Swanson is available for interview and can be reached using the information below or by email at PennyAndRio@yahoo.com. More information is available at her website at www.PennyAndRio.com. Her books are available Amazon.com, Barnes and Noble, IndiePendent Books and at her website.

Profile:

Jennifer Swanson has been writing since the age of 5. A 1990 graduate of the U.S. Naval Academy, Jennifer pursued her other love of science and became a prep school chemistry teacher. Her Navy career took her to Norfolk, VA where she was stationed with her husband, Jon.

Her life changed forever when they adopted Penny, their first dog. Penny was a wonderful addition to their family and less than a year later, they adopted Rio, her best pal. Jennifer kept writing during the next several years as she raised three children, supported her naval officer husband and taught both part and full time.

Today Ms. Swanson continues to work on the Penny and Rio series and recently received her Masters in Education. Jennifer is employed as a middle school science instructor for John Hopkins University’s Center for Talented Youth.

Jennifer is an active member of the Society of Children’s Book Writers. She regularly attends the Florida branch of SCBWI’s conferences in Orlando and Miami. She is also a member of the Florida Writer’s Association.

Contact:

Jennifer Swanson
13780 Harbor Creek Place
Jacksonville, FL 32224
Phone (904) 992-6955
Web: www.PennyAndRio.com
Email: PennyAndRio@yahoo.com

Leia Mais…

Thursday, March 11, 2010

Award Winning Author Renee Hand Announces New Book Release And School Visit Schedule In The Detroit Michigan Area

Author Renee Hand announces the upcoming release of her newest book, Joe-Joe Nut and Biscuit Bill. Ms. Hand will be appearing at Read in the Park on March 21 at Berkley High School and will be visiting schools in the Grand Rapids, Flint, Saginaw, Lansing and Detroit areas of Michigan

Award winning author Renee Hand, author of the Crypto-Capers Series of children’s books announced today the upcoming release of her new book, Joe-Joe Nut and Biscuit Bill. She will be appearing at Read in the Park on March 21, 2010 at Berkley High School, and will be visiting schools in the Grand Rapids, Flint, Saginaw, Lansing and Detroit areas of Michigan. School visits will include Hemlock Elementary, State Road Fenton Elementary, Spring Lakes Elementary, Hyatt Elementary, Central Elementary, Linden Elementary, Mount Hope Elementary and Macomb School District.

Ms. Hand’s award winning children’s books are designed to maximize reading comprehension through engaging, interactive games. The Crypto-Capers series, as well as the Joe-Joe Nut series challenge and engage children through involving them in literacy games, leading to improved comprehension and exceptional learning.

“Writing children's books,” stated Ms. Hand, “gives me a chance to be creative and yet at the same time allows me to educate and challenge children to their fullest potential. The Crypto-Caper and Joe-Joe Nut Series involves the reader into the stories in a way that makes them feel a part of it all as they figure out who commits the crime. The reader will learn about deduction and reasoning, but also about themselves and what they can do. These books show characters with strength and courage, compassion and determination, and children of all ages can relate to that.”

Renee Hand will be appearing at Read in the Park for the Berkley School District at Berkley High School in the Collaborative Center on March 21 from 1pm to 4 pm. The Collaborative Center is located at 2325 Catalpa Drive in Berkley Michigan near Detroit and Ann Arbor. Her upcoming school visit schedule includes:

Macomb School District - Clinton Township - March 17, 2010
Hyatt Elementary - Linden MI - March 18, 2010
Central Elementary - Linden MI - March 24, 2010
Linden Elementary - Linden MI - March 26, 2010
Mount Hope Elementary - East Lansing MI - March 29, 2010
Spring Lake Elementary - Grand Rapids MI - March 31, 2010
Barnes and Noble - Lansing MI - May 31, 2010 6-8 pm

Renee Hand is available for media interviews and school visits. She can be reached using the information below or by email at TheCryptoCapersSeries@gmail.com. More information on the Crypto-Caper series and the Joe-Joe Nut series is available at Ms. Hand’s website at www.ReneeAHand.com. All of Ms. Hand’s books are available at any bookstore or from her website.

Profile:

Renee Hand is an award-winning author and educator, She has been writing for over twenty years and has been a published author for five years with five works published. She writes for various chronicles and newsletters, as well as writing reviews for authors of children´s books.

Ms. Hand’s awards include a Best 2006 Fantasy Romance award for Magic Hearts. Her second romance novel, Seduction of the Lonely Heart won a National Literary Award for Best Romance of 2007. The first book in her children's series, The Crypto-Capers in The Case of the Missing Sock, won a preferred choice award for 2009 by Creative Child Magazine.

Ms Hand has appeared in over 40 newspapers and blogs. She has been interviewed on ABC channel 12 and on various radio stations including Blog Talk Radio and The Children's Author Show. She has participated in over 100 events, which include book signings, libraries, book stores, charities, schools and festivals all over the United States. She is a member of the SCBWI (Society of Children´s Book Writers and Illustrators).

Contact:
Renee Hand
Web: www.ReneeAHand.com
Email: TheCryptoCapersSeries@gmail.com

Leia Mais…

Wednesday, March 3, 2010

Jennifer Swanson, Award Winning Author Of The Penny And Rio Series Of Children’s Books, Signs With Mariposa Press Inc. For Distribution In France


Jennifer Swanson’s award winning Penny and Rio early chapter book series features interactive books that lead to exceptional learning. Swanson’s books, already translated into Thai and distributed in Thailand, will now be distributed in France

Jennifer Swanson, author of the highly acclaimed Penny and Rio series of children’s books, recently signed with Mariposa Press Inc. for distribution of her titles in English language bookstores throughout France.

"Children around the world will be delighted with the ingenuity of these two dogs,” stated Ms. Swanson, “as they solve mysteries and go on adventures right from their own backyard. Great for classrooms or home school, these award winning early chapter books will provide engaging entertainment while also creating exceptional learning opportunities. I am very happy to be working with Mariposa Press."

Mariposa Press Inc. will be handling distribution of Ms. Swanson’s titles to English language bookstores throughout France. Mariposa will also be representing Swanson’s titles at France’s main book expo, the Salon du Livre.

Mariposa Press Inc. has been in business for over 29 years. Laurie Blum, President of Mariposa Press Inc., has worked as both a book packager and editor with industry leaders such as Harper Collins, Simon and Schuster, and Henry Holt. Ms. Blum has over 63 titles to her credit and has sold millions of copies of her books.

Ms. Swanson’s books have won numerous industry awards. Both of her books, Penny and Rio: The Mysterious Backyard Meeting, and Penny and Rio: The Locked Doghouse Mystery, have won a Mom’s Choice Silver Awards for Juvenile Fiction – Early Reader. The Mom’s Choice Awards esteemed panel of judges includes educators, media and other experts as well as parents, children, librarians, performing artists, producers, medical and business professionals, authors, scientists and others. They have both been awarded The Dove Foundation’s Family-Approved Seal.

In addition to writing books about dogs, Jennifer is committed to helping animals. She firmly believes in adopting dogs, and has taught her children the same values. In support of this goal, Jennifer donates a portion of her proceeds to a local Jacksonville pet rescue organization, G.R.E.A.T Rescue. The organization rescues and rehabilitates golden retrievers and places them in their new and forever homes. Jennifer has also recently teamed with Pawsitive Pets, a local organization that takes dogs into schools to help children learn to read.

"I am thrilled to be introducing the dynamic dog detectives, Penny and Rio, to the children of France. It is my hope that the mischievous and entertaining adventures of my two canine characters will fuel their imagination and cause them to look at their own pet's antics in a new and unique manner."

Ms. Swanson is available for interview and can be reached using the information below or by email at PennyAndRio@yahoo.com. More information is available at her website at www.PennyAndRio.com. Her books are available Amazon.com, Barnes and Noble, IndiePendent Books and at her website.

Profile:

Jennifer Swanson has been writing since the age of 5. A 1990 graduate of the U.S. Naval Academy, Jennifer pursued her other love of science and became a prep school chemistry teacher. Her Navy career took her to Norfolk, VA where she was stationed with her husband, Jon.

Her life changed forever when they adopted Penny, their first dog. Penny was a wonderful addition to their family and less than a year later, they adopted Rio, her best pal. Jennifer kept writing during the next several years as she raised three children, supported her naval officer husband and taught both part and full time.

Today Ms. Swanson continues to work on the Penny and Rio series and recently received her Masters in Education. Jennifer is employed as a middle school science instructor for John Hopkins University’s Center for Talented Youth.

Jennifer is an active member of the Society of Children’s Book Writers. She regularly attends the Florida branch of SCBWI’s conferences in Orlando and Miami. She is also a member of the Florida Writer’s Association.

Contact:

Jennifer Swanson
13780 Harbor Creek Place
Jacksonville, FL 32224
Phone 904-992-6955
Web: www.PennyAndRio.com
Email: PennyAndRio@yahoo.com

Leia Mais…