Sunday, December 2, 2012

THE BIGGEST CHRISTMAS EVENT OF 2012


I am so excited to participate in the biggest Christmas event giveaway of 2012. A family that plays together stays together. I love getting together with friends and family to play games. As a children's author, I believe reading and playing games are the two most important ways both young and old can put their imagination to full use.  This holiday season , be sure to make time to play some games and snuggle next to the fireplace with a good book.  HAPPY HOLIDAYS & GOOD LUCK TO ALL!

Choice Your U Event

~ Introducing the Wii U ~

Wii U is the next great gaming console from Nintendo and it redefines how you will play next. With its innovative new Wii U GamePad controller, it will not only introduce entirely new ways to play games, it will also transform how you connect with friends and enjoy entertainment.
Play Games
  • Discover new ways to play together with the innovative Wii U GamePad controller
  • Enjoy brand new games from your favorite gaming franchises
  • Experience up to full 1080p HD for the first-time ever on a Nintendo gaming console
  • Play almost all of your favorite Wii games & accessories on the Wii U console
Connect & Share
  • Interact with friends, family, and people around the world via Miiverse*
  • Download add-on content, full games, classic games, and applications from the Nintendo eShop*
  • Communicate in real time with the video chat feature*
  • Make and share Mii? characters* *Broadband Internet access required for online features. For more info, go to support.nintendo.com
Transform Entertainment
  • Search your TV, cable, video-on-demand and DVR content from one convenient place
  • Control your TV with the Wii U GamePad as a remote control
  • Browse the Internet on the Wii U GamePad and share your activity on the TV screen
  • Find, watch, and enhance your video entertainment
Wii U GamePad Controller
  • Connects Wirelessly with both the console and the TV
  • Built-in touch screen
  • Motion Control
  • Buttons and control sticks built right in

One lucky reader will receive a Wii U Console with Wii U GamePad Controller!

Giveaway ends December 30th at 11:59pm, open to worldwide {residents outside of the US will receive a $300 Amazon Gift Card}, ages 18+. To enter please use the Rafflecopter form below. Good luck!

Monday, November 12, 2012

CHRISTMAS Wii U CONSOLE EVENT






Choice Your U Event

Prizes: Wii U Console {2 units = 1 a month}
Event dates: 11/2-11/30 & 12/2-12/30

Free Blog Event! Sign-up here, BLOGGERS WANTED

Thursday, November 1, 2012

Fall Ipod Event



I am hugely honored for the opportunity to participate in this grand giveaway. I want to thank all the hosts listed below.   More and more it is becoming so important to have easy access to the best  technology.  As an award-winning children's picture book author I am very happy because adults and kids will have more ways to read my books.Good luck !
Nicole Weaver
Award-winning Author
http://nicole-weaver.com
       
Welcome to the Apple IPod Touch ~ Pink 32 GB Turkey Day Event! Event will run from 11/1 12:01 AM - 11/21 11:59 PM. It is brought to you by our host and co hosts Plum Crazy About Coupons, A Medic's World, Raking In The Savings, Dishin' With Rebelle, Freebie Spot, Cotton Ridge Create, Stay A Stay At Home Mom and Coupondipity.
We would like to say thank you to all other wonderful bloggers that are participating in this event also.

Friday, October 26, 2012

HOW TO HELP YOUR CHILD SEE THE WORLD THROUGH GLOBAL LENS




It is never too early to get your child on the right track.  I believe young children should be given the opportunity to study a second language, by the time they enter kindergarten.   What better way to help your child see the world through a global lens than to encourage him/ her to learn about a new culture and new language.

Young children acquire a new language at a much faster rate than adults do.  Many school districts across the country have dual language schools available. 

I am a huge proponent for second language acquisition because I have firsthand experience on how students benefits from such exposure.   I am a high school French and Spanish teacher.  I also have the honor to teach several exchange students from Germany, Zurich, Korea, Japan, and Brazil.  These students are fluent in at least three languages.  They are spending the year in the United States, so they can perfect their English skills.    The key to their success is a foreign language was made available to them as early as third grade.  Teaching these students has ignited a burning desire deep in my soul. I will do my best to promote the learning of a second language.

I have been called to a mission, and I am happy to say that I have answered that call.  My two trilingual children’s picture books   were written to help make it easy and fun to introduce a foreign language to a young child. I am hugely encouraged that I will be able to reach a much wider audience, thanks to Literary Classics International Book Awards & Reviews.  My second book, My Sister is My Best Friend was nominated for the gold seal in the special category: Female audience.


<img src=http://www.mysisterismybestfriend.blogspot.com/"seo.jpg alt="seo"/>


<img src=http://myisterismybestfriend.blogspot.com/"seo.jpg alt="seo"/>


  You can learn about Literary Classics by visiting their site: http://www.clcawards.org/2012-Award-Books.html

Why should your child learn French or Spanish?  Here are a few reasons why you should have your child enroll in either French or Spanish or any other language of your choice.
  • Communicate with other peoples and cultures
  • Improve your command of English
  • Develop critical-thinking  skills
  • Participate in the global community of the future
  • Open doors to the arts
Imagine the possibilities for your child once he or she starts to learn a new way to communicate.
 The best minds do not just answer questions- they ask them. Do not waiver; enroll your child in a foreign language today!

Thursday, October 4, 2012

LITERARY CLASSIC FINALISTS


So very happy to announce that my book, My Sister Is My Best Friend is a finalist in the literary classic award program.  Read press release below for details.














NEWS
For Immediate Release
October 1, 2012
Literary Classics
info@clcawards.org


RAPID CITY, SD – Literary Classics announced its 2012 selection of top book finalists for children and young adults today.  The list includes finalists from entries received all over the world.  The Literary Classics selection committee is proud to recognize the following titles in children’s and young adult literature which exemplify the criteria set forth by the Literary Classics Awards committee.
A list of the 2012 award finalists follows:
Animalogy: Animalogy Analogies, Marianne Berkes
Fantastic Flight, Barbara Bockman
Black & White, Larry Dane Brimner
The King’s Ransom, Cheryl Carpinello
Walking Through Walls, Karen Cioffi
Shield Maiden, Richard Denning
Terple Always Dream Bigger, Richie Frieman
Return to Finkleton, KC Hilton
The Casting, Joyce Shor Johnson
Griffin Rising, Darby Karchut
The Reinvention of Moxie Roosevelt, Elizabeth Cody Kimmel
Drawn, Marie Lamba
A Box Story, Kenneth Kit Lamug
The Limit, Kristen Landon
Santa & The Little Teddy Bear, Peter John Lucking
Beautiful Wild Rose Girl, B. Magnolia
Bella & Harry Let’s Visit Athens!  Lisa Manzione
Bella & Harry Let’s Visit Cairo!  Lisa Manzione
Bella & Harry Let’s Visit London!  Lisa Manzione
Shelby & Shauna Kitt and the Dimensional Holes, PHC Marchesi
Caves, Cannons and Crinolines, Beverly Stowe McClure
Runaway Twins, Pete Palamountain
The Stone Child, Dan Poblocki
Clara’s Great War, Evelyn Rothstein
In Memory of Dad, Maranda Russell
Young Funny and Unbalanced, David Smithyman
Sh Sh Sh Let the Baby Sleep, Kathy Stemke
The Crystal Ship, CJ Carter-Stephenson
The Great Divide, Suzanne Slade
One Pelican at a Time, Nancy Stewart
Sea Turtle Summer, Nancy Stewart
The Orphan Ship, Sterling R. Walker
My Sister is My Best Friend, Nicole Weaver
All final award levels and categories will be announced October 15, 2012.
Literary Classics, an organization dedicated to furthering excellence in literature, takes great pride in its role to help promote classic children’s literature which appeals to youth, while educating and encouraging positive values in the impressionable young minds of future generations.  Judging is based upon the criteria set forth by Literary Classics’ highly selective awards committee which honors books promoting character, vision, creativity and learning, through content which possesses the key elements found in well-crafted literature.
The Literary Classics judging committee consists of experts with backgrounds in publishing, writing, editing, design, illustration, and book reviewing.   To learn more about Literary Classics, visit their website at www.literaryclassicsawards.com.

Monday, September 3, 2012

How to Parent with a Purpose: Setting our children up for success



 School started two weeks ago in my hometown of Littleton, Colorado.  I love the start of the school year because I look at it as a chance for a new beginning for my son.   I take great pride in helping my son get ready for school.  I make sure he has everything he needs.  This is his last year in high school.  I recently got him a credit card, so I can teach him how to handle finances. It is both exciting and scary to think my youngest will be off to college in a few short months.

I do not have enough toes and fingers to count my blessings.  Two of three children have graduated from college and are living on their own.  Now, I have the opportunity to help my youngest son finish his high school career with a bang and be ready for college fall 2013.   

I love being a mom.  I also love being a teacher.  This is why I write books for children.   The teacher part of me brings me back to when my kids were toddlers.  I remember spending countless hours reading their favorite books to them.    Setting children up for academic success starts when they toddlers.

The single best strategy for helping your children succeed is to encourage them to read. Reading is a skill that’s essential in all areas of achievement.

I believe reading well is a critical component in the development of young minds. Reading frequently will help a child foster his or her creative thinking, enhance word recognition, improve cognitive skills, and help achieve a greater understanding of people and the world around him/her.

Here are a few simple tips to help your child become a great reader.

o Encourage children to read on their own. Spending at least 30 minutes a day reading for fun will help a child be a better reader at school.

o Visit the library often. Take your child to the library at least once a week.

o Encourage books for gifts. Instead of spending a fortune on expensive gifts, buy instead books. Ask family members and friends to give gift cards to bookstores. Set aside a special date where you and your child can go to the bookstore to buy books.

o Get help for your child if they have a reading problem. There are many after-school programs through your local library. You can also ask the librarian for names of community organizations that offer free literacy tutoring.

If you are looking for ways to parent with a purpose and set your children up for success; I highly recommend you take time out of your schedule and read books to your toddlers.   This in my opinion is the best thing you can do for your children.  Great readers make excellent middle and high school students.

Here are the books I have written to help turns kids into super readers:



Click here to buy a copy

<img src=http://www.mysisterismybestfriend.blogspot.com/"seo.jpg alt="seo"/>


Click here to buy a copy




















<img src=http://www.mysisterismybestfriend.blogspot.com/"seo.jpg alt="seo"/>

Thursday, July 19, 2012

MY SISTER IS MY BEST FRIEND AWARDED CREATIVE CHILD MAGAZINE 2012 AWARD



M E D I A  R E L E A S E


CONTACT: Nicole Weaver

Children’s Trilingual Author

Website: http://mysisterismybestfriend.blogspot.com

Email: lumiereleclaire@yahoo.com


For Immediate Release

Nicole Weaver’s trilingual children’s book, My Sister Is My Best Friend: A Trilingual Story, English, French, and Spanish has been awarded Creative Child 2012 Preferred Choice Award – Kids Picture Storybooks category.



About Creative Child Awards Program

Each year, Creative Child holds a 2-day event held in Henderson, Nevada where over a hundred guest reviewers (moms and education professionals) are invited to attend a review event at the local convention center. All products are divided into categories and displayed at various review stations. Guest reviewers are asked to sit and review each product at one station, then move to another station, and so forth and so on. A review form is provided to each guest to aid him or her in evaluating each product. The review forms are to include written comments and a score value based on criteria that corresponds to the product’s category.

Finally, all review forms are collected, scores tabulated, and comments reviewed. Based on the scores and comments, certain products are determined to be finalists and receive a prestigious Preferred Choice award. The Seal of Excellence is another prestigious award given to those products that are not finalists but do exceed expectations based on the criteria for nurturing creativity and education in children.

Look for My Sister Is My Best Friend: A Trilingual Story, English, French and Spanish to be featured in Creative Child‘s special holiday issue this November!



Synopsis

My Sister Is My Best Friend is a story about the unique and very close friendship that exists between twin sisters. The sisters celebrate their friendship and closeness by doing just about everything together. People from all cultures can relate to this heartwarming story with the text written in English/Spanish/French on each page.


About the Author

Nicole Weaver was born in Port-au-Prince Haiti. She came to the United States when she was ten years old. She is fluent in Creole, French, Spanish and English. She is a veteran teacher of French and Spanish. Her deep connection with family resulted in her writing and publishing, My Sister Is My Best Friend: A Trilingual Story, by Guardian Angel Publishing, November 2011. Nicole has one more book under contract with Guardian Angel Publishing, My Brother Is My Best Friend. Weaver also penned the children’s trilingual picture book entitled, Marie and Her Friend the Sea Turtle. The story is about aHaitian little girl who resided by the beach in Haiti. Visit Nicole Weaver:

http://mysisterismybestfriend.blogspot.com.

Title: My Sister Is My Best Friend, a Trilingual Story

Written by: Nicole Weaver

Illustrated by: Clara Batton Smith

Soft cover: 16 pages

Ages: 4-8

Publisher: Guardian Angel Publishing, Inc. http://www.guardianangelpublishing.com/sister-best.htm

Print ISBN 13: 978-1616332099

eBook ISBN 13: 978-1616332105

Published: November 2011

###

Monday, July 16, 2012

HOW TO GIVE WITH A PURPOSE

Do you believe in giving with a purpose? Have you ever given to a charity just for the sake of giving? I think at one point we all have done that. Charitable contributions have taken a huge dive because of the economy. The only recourse we have is to do a thorough research to make sure the money is being used properly.

I believe most people that give do it because they mean well.   Having great intentions is no guarantee the money you give will be used for what you intended it to be used for.  This past week I had a rude awakening.  It broke my heart when I learned my monthly contribution that was meant to help the poor of Haiti was used to pay the salaries of pastors.  I had heard about a church that sends monthly contributions to Haiti to help feed the needy, so I figured it would be a great idea to send them a monthly check.

 I trusted the person who told me about the Haitian church, so I blindly gave my money.  I realized I can’t hop on a plane to go feed the hungry but the least I can do is to make monetary contributions.

As fate would have it, the week I found out how my contributions were diverted for other things is the same week I got a copy of the book:  Angels of a Lower Flight written by Susie Scott Krabacher , a former playboy centerfold.  I read the book in one day.   I have learned many things from reading this book.  The most important thing I learned is   there are people who are honest and like me they want to help Haiti’s needy.  Angels of a Lower Flight will help you see a genuine look at what goes on in my native Haiti.  It is a story of courage.  Susie Krabacher turned her destructive childhood and troubled youth and healed herself completely by serving love on a silver platter to Haiti’s children.

Her story of courage re-kindled my heart with a new desire to help the poor children of Haiti.  I found the courage to forgive the pastor that deceived me into thinking my monthly contribution was for the poor.  I have since learned how to give with a purpose.  I mean, I work very hard to earn a living so I can provide for my children.  My daughter just graduated from college and I have one more child to attend college. I give most of the proceeds from my book sales for Haiti relief and now, my contribution will be going to Mercy & Sharing.

If you would like to make a contribution you can visit  MERCY & SHARING











Wednesday, July 11, 2012

HOW DO YOU KNOW YOUR SISTERS LOVE YOU?




 How do you know your sisters love you?  For me the answer to that question is very easy. I am the youngest sister.  I often think back on when I was younger.  My two sisters Danielle and Rose took great care of me.  They came to the United States before me.  I remember them helping me learn English. Haiti is so different from New York. It took me time to get used to the frigid winters in New York.  My sisters were always there for me.  They made sure I had all the necessities for school.  Our Mom worked two jobs to make end meet. 



<img src=http://www.mysisterismybestfriend.blogspot.com /"seo.jpg alt="seo"/>


As a young girl living in a new city far away from my native Port-au-Prince Haiti, my sisters helped me assimilate to the American way of life by taking me to many functions.  They accompanied me to see the yearly Christmas and Easter shows at Radio City Music Hall. They took me to the movies and Coney Island.  These memories will reside in me forever.

Later, when I got married and had children, my sisters continued to support me by spoiling my three kids.    Coming up with the title of my second children book was not too difficult.  I wanted to dedicate a book to my sisters and that is how I came up with the title: My Sister Is My Best Friend.

I wrote the story to show that siblings can get along and it is fun to take time to do things together as opposed to fighting and arguing.  The story is written in English, French, and Spanish for a reason.   One reviewer captured the true essence of the book:

Nicole Weaver's children's book, My Sister is My Best Friend: A Trilingual Story, is a whimsy, fresh faced and full of confection. Yet, when one thinks about the book, it is soon evident the story has an important message. It is an homage to sisterhood even, and especially, at such a callow age.

The three languages, English, Spanish and French add to the globalness, and the girls become "everygirl." Similarities are so much more important than differences in today's tiny world, and Nicole's books prove this to be true.

The happy mood is captured beautifully by Clara Batton Smith's yummy watercolors. The sisters are dressed alike and are delighted with the day and the outing with each other and their mother. I particularly like the city feel of the illustrations.

Nicole dedicated the story to her three sisters, and the love she feels for them shines through within the book's pages. Delightfully, in fact.
 This is a gorgeous read all the way around. You're guaranteed to love it!

<img src=http://www.mysisterismybestfriend.blogspot.com /"seo.jpg alt="seo"/>


I hope you can answer the question: How do you know your sisters love you with a positive answer. Having siblings that support you is a gift that is worth millions.


Monday, June 25, 2012

The Joy of Sharing




There is nothing more nobler than the act of sharing.  Sharing is a basic act of letting the other person know you care.  Young children learn about sharing by watching the adults around them.  Actions certainly speak louder than words.  Growing up with two wonderful sisters made it easier for me to learn the value of sharing.  What I learned from them made me into the adult I am today. 

I am very thankful my older sisters taught me this important lesson.   It brings great joy to my heart because I have been able to pass on that important value to my three children.   They learned early on to share everything. 

I think sharing goes beyond material things.  My sisters and friends helped me shoulder the pain of my son’s illness.  They shared my pain by praying for me.  Now, they are sharing the joy of my son getting well again.  Life is so fragile, but having people around you to share joy makes life worth living.

Sunday, June 10, 2012

Compassionate Children Become Compassionate Adults




 Earlier this week I wrote a post about sisters are special.  Today I want to write about friends are special too.  Since my son’s illness, many of the parents of Luc’s friends have been dropping off meals every night.  They know that I have been spending an entire day at my son’s bedside in the hospital.  I am very moved by their kindness.   Their actions remind me that compassionate children become compassionate adults.
Regarded as one of the greatest human virtues, compassion is an emotional response and attitude toward others that is deeply empathetic. It enables us to connect to human suffering with care and understanding, acting in ways that brings comfort to those around us. Research shows that compassion plays a key role in helping children develop into engaged, caring, and optimistic adults.

The old adage that says: Charity begins at home is so true. I think one of the best things we can do as parents is to encourage children to treat their siblings with love and respect. A child that learns early on to be a friend to a sibling can transfer that friendship to others. When my kids were young, I made sure they understood the importance of treating their siblings with respect and love. I helped my children figure out how to be a friend to each other. This strong belief is what led me to write My Sister Is My Best Friend as sisters that got along with one another.
 
I love what one reviewer wrote about the book:

“I like this book because it portrays sisters who get along and enjoy each others' company instead of being yet another one about sibling rivalry.”

Even in the face of a major illness, I was able to draw some positives to help my son understand and appreciate what true compassion is all about. He will be writing thank you cards for all who lovingly made meals. The blue cooler pictured below was filled with his favorite food.  upon our arrival from the hospital  on Saturday, we sat and ate a very healthy and robust lunch.  The families insisted on providing us meals until Tuesday .   I am abundantly blessed to live in a community with such compassionate individuals.


 



Thursday, June 7, 2012

Sisters are Special




Do you have sisters? Are they as special as mine are?  I am sure they are.  I find great comfort knowing my sisters are there for me.  I am the youngest.  In good and bad times, my sisters are always there to support me.  Last month my sisters Danielle and Rose flew to Malibu, California to attend my daughter’s college graduation from Pepperdine University.
 My two sisters Rose and Danielle with my daughter Michele at her college graduation


The past two weeks have been very difficult as my youngest have been very sick.  Again, my sisters came to my support.  As I sit here in my son’s hospital room, I got inspired to write this post to share my thoughts on how thankful I am to have such great sisters. 

Yesterday my sister Rose brought me my favorite meal for lunch.  It gets very boring eating the same cafeteria food for breakfast, lunch, and dinner. I usually arrive at hospital by 6AM and leave by 8PM, so I do not have time to cook or even go to the store.  I want to spend as much time with my son as possible.

My sister Danielle lives in Long Island, New York.  She calls every day to give moral support and well wishes.

Feel free to share your sister story by leaving a comment. Thanks in advance for sharing your thoughts.





I consider myself very blessed to be part of Guardian Angel Publishing.  My publisher Lynda Burch, publishes quality children's books for ages 0-12 and it is with great pleasure I share with you the media release  below.  Hope you have time to stop by and check out the new Ezine format.  Thank you for your interest and support.


M E D I A R E L E A S E

CONTACT: Donna McDine, Editor-in-Chief, Guardian Angel Kids Ezine
Email: submissions@guardian-angel-kids.com
Website: http://guardian-angel-kids.com


For Immediate Release

Children’s Ezine Guardian Angel Kids: Growing Up – June 2012 Issue

The Guardian Angel Kids creative crew is pleased to announce the new Ezine format. The inviting visual will take the reader on a turn page style adventure with the click of the mouse accompanied with the sound of turning a page in your hand. Without further ado, we present the Guardian Angel Kids Growing Up June 2012 issue…

The carefree days of childhood invokes memories of lazy days of summer vacation filled with days of swimming at the town pool. It was the central social point of the neighborhood and the excitement of the day would then flow onto our cul-de-sac (after the children of the neighborhood ate their respective suppers) where there was always a stick ball game going on until the single street light flickered on. Quickly we would change gears and switch to playing flashlight tag. My mother, always an avid reader, made sure her children read each and every day and to this day we all have instilled the same love of reading with our own children. Without lapsing in our reading skills throughout the summer we were always well prepared with our studies. The days appeared endless and before you knew it, it was time for back to school shopping.

The love of reading has led me to the path of writing for children and Editor-in-Chief of Guardian Angel Publishing, for which I’m joyful for and proud to present the Guardian Angel Kids June 2012 issue of Growing Up www.guardian-angel-kids.com.

We hope you enjoy our issue of Growing Up as much the Guardian Angel Kid staff did reminiscing about our childhoods and selecting the wonderful poetry, stories, articles, and activities.


LETTER FROM THE EDITOR-IN-CHIEF: Donna M. McDine

FEATURED BOOKS:

Growing Up Dreams by Susan Berger and illustrated by Samantha Bell

The Odd Chick by Mary Esparza-Vela and illustrated by Kevin Collier

CHILDREN’S POETRY, ACTIVITIES, SHORT STORIES, AND ARTICLES:

“I’m Growing Up,” poetry by Guy Belleranti – how quickly the time passes by.
“Is It Friday Yet?” poetry by Alicia Z. Klepeis – The excitement of the approaching end of the week.
“Activities to Make Reading Fun,” by Kathy Stemke – having fun with language is the key to unlocking the world of reading to your child.
“Too Much Trouble,” by Juliana M. Jones and illustrated by Nancy Miller – the growing responsibility of getting older.
“Maid for Make Believe,” by Caroline Yu and illustrated by Clara Batton Smith – the magic of pretend brings to friends closer together.
“Read Aloud Tips for Preschoolers: Put Some Pizzazz in Reading Aloud,” by Dorit Sasson – how to connect to the story by acting it out.
“Encouraging Your Reader,” by Vanessa Fortenberry – tips on how to encourage and instill the love of reading.
Visit Guardian Angel Kid today and www.guardian-angel-kids.com and enjoy a child safe and ad free Ezine.
We also invite you to stay connected with Guardian Angel Kids through our Facebook Fan Pagehttp://www.facebook.com/pages/Guardian-Angel-Kids-Ezine/163785080346247.

Please feel free to drop Editor-in-Chief, Donna McDine an email at submissions@guardian-angel-kids.comand let them know what you think of Guardian Angel Kids and what you'd like to see in the future. They aim to please.
The Guardian Angel Kids Ezine staff and contributors look forward to your visit. Thank you for your time and interest.

Saturday, May 12, 2012



Day Seven-Celebrating Children’s Book Week Final Day 

Nurture a Child with a Book




As mother’s we have a huge responsibility to nourish our children with food, and make sure, they are brought up in a safe environment. Our responsibilities as mothers should extend beyond providing nutritional nourishment; it should also include providing our children with all types of books that can enable the child to develop a thirst for knowledge. 

We are the richest country in the world; however, there are millions of children who are never given a chance to acquire a thirst for knowledge. These children fall way behind in school. Research has shown if a child can’t read at-grade level by 3rd grade, that child will most likely drop out before completing high school.

I believe it is cheaper to make interventions early on in contrast to waiting until it is too late. Every year I get a few high-school students who are several years below a grade level in reading. I am always baffled, and I ask myself how in the world did a student make it all the way to the 9th grade reading at a 3rd grade level? I do not have an answer to that question, but what I do have are plausible ways to help a child develop a genuine desire for reading.

          Here are a few suggestions:
  • Allow kids to read books that are of interest to them
  • Take kids to the library to attend reading programs
  • Take kids to local book fairs so they can purchase books that are of interest to them
  • Create a special space where you and your kids can spend time reading together (when my three children were younger we sat in a special area in the family room to read

Kids emulate their parents, if they see their parents reading; they too will want to do the same.
Perhaps school districts should make classes available to teach parents the best way to promote kids and reading is to provide them with books that they enjoy and want to read-or have read to them-over and over again.
So glad I had a chance to participate and celebrate children's book week.  As we celebrate Mother's Day, let's remember the best gift we can give to any child is the gift of knowledge through reading.
In celebration of the final day of children’s book week, I encourage all to Nurture a child with a book and perhaps that child will develop an unquenchable thirst for knowledge.

 This is the number one reason I have taken the time to become a writer.  I hope all of my books will help enrich the lives of all children who read them.




I invite you to visit with my fellow Guardian Angel Publishing authors at their blogs during Children’s Book Week 2012 and beyond:
Margo Dill - www.margodill.com/blog
Don’t forget to enter our contest:



a Rafflecopter giveaway

Day Six: Children's Book Week Celebration


Welcome to day Six of Children’s Book Week Celebration

Library Visits

Doing library visits is one way an author can get more exposure for his/her book. I did a series of library visits to promote my first book.   I was amazed at how many French-speaking children that came to my book reading.   It is a great way to make contact with potential buyers for future books.  I have several readings set up for the month of June and July to promote my newest book: My Sister Is My Best Friend.  I am looking forward to the readings because some of the same families that attended my other readings will be there.

Many good things can come out of these visits.  Parents who attend the readings usually go home and tell their friends and family about it.  That free promotion can open many doors. People in general love meeting a local author.
 
Last month, I attended an author event sponsored by my local library.   I did not sell many books, but I met many great authors, and together we plan to do cross promotion.   Below is a brief interview on the event.   Deb Parker is the Executive Assistant/Events and Program Director at my local library.



1) How do you find authors to participate in the event? Do you advertise in the local newspapers?

To find our authors I sent out emails to all formerly attending authors and invite them. I also ask them to share the invitation with all of their author friends, writers groups, publishers, etc.
As far as advertising, we have each author advertise on their blogs, websites, Facebook, etc., And I advertise in the Englewood Herald, YourHub, my Facebook, City website, I have some contacts at other libraries that hang up information for us, local business gets the word out for us, I have some contacts with authors and radio hosts who will put in plugs for us leading up to the event.

Unfortunately, this year was warm and beautiful, and I think people were enjoying the Colorado Spring too much and forgot to come see us. For example, one of our regulars (all previous 12 years) missed this year because he started trimming his bushes and was having so much fun in his yard that he didn’t even think of us until 6:30 pm. It happens.

2) What must an author do in order to do a book reading in your library?

Authors contact me, and I see what we can do to have a reading for them in our library.

3) On the average how many books can an author sell at MEET THE FACES BEHIND THE BOOKS yearly event.

Our average so far has been 6 until the last three or four years. With the drop in the economy, and the emergence of E-book technologies, we have seen a decline in book sales. At this year’s event, the average sales were 4. We did have quite a few of our patrons comment on how much fun they had buying the books for their Kindle or Nook while talking to the authors.
I would add that with Social Media and all the writers groups that are out there, it is refreshing to see new people contacting us all the time. We have found authors through all sorts of different avenues than in years past. I love that authors, though competitive to sell their own works, are also willing to encourage other authors to join them whenever possible. It makes for fun and diverse groups of authors. It seems that the mix of authors gets better every year.
 
In celebration of Children’s Book week, let’s make every effort to get our books in the hands of kids.

I invite you to visit with my fellow Guardian Angel Publishing authors at their blogs during Children’s Book Week 2012 and beyond:

Margo Dill - www.margodill.com/blog
Nicole Weaver - www.mysisterismybestfriend.blogspot.com
Don’t forget to enter our contest:


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Friday, May 11, 2012

Welcome to day five of Children’s Book week Celebration

 Free Book Promotion

 Your book is published, what do you do next? You have many options. One option is to promote your book with an online book tour company or you can start building an online presence by writing articles. Even though I have done an online book tour, but for me writing articles has proven to be the most lucrative way to promote my books. My goal is to set myself as an expert in the field of foreign languages. Writing articles relating to foreign language acquisition afforded me the opportunity to brand myself as an expert.

 Read  two articles I wrote Here and Here
 Potential customers will most likely buy my books because they trust me.

Since making a concerted effort with article writing, my book sales for my first book Marie and Her Friend the Sea Turtle has gone up. On average, I sell 10 books a month. Book sales are great, but what is more important is to have my target audience read and appreciate the message in my book. I get great satisfaction knowing that children that read my books have an opportunity to be exposed to French and Spanish.

Perhaps, reading my trilingual books will spark interest in helping the child decide to take foreign language study more seriously. Every book is unique and I believe a child can learn many valuable lessons from reading a variety of books. In celebration of children’s book week, I encourage you to take a few moments to ponder upon what you can do to get your book into the hands of many children as possible. You never know how your book may change a child’s life forever.

I invite you to visit with my fellow Guardian Angel Publishing authors at their blogs during Children’s Book Week 2012 and beyond:

Mayra Calvani - www.mayrassecretbookcase.blogspot.com
Margo Dill - www.margodill.com/blog
Margot Finke – www.hookkidsonreading.blogspot.com
Nancy Stewart - www.nancystewartbooks.blogspot.com
Kai Strand - www.kaistrand.blogspot.com
Nicole Weaver - www.mysisterismybestfriend.blogspot.com
Don’t forget to enter our contest:
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Thursday, May 10, 2012

Welcome to day four of Children’s Book Week Celebration
Finding Your Niche Market



The children’s book market is by far the most competitive market. How do you find your niche market? This is a million-dollar question. Let’s first define what a niche market is: A niche market is composed of individuals and businesses that have similar interests and needs. Once you identify the market, you can concentrate and zero in on the specific target audience.

For example, my two children’s picture books: Marie and Her Friend the Sea Turtle and My Sister is My Best Friend are both trilingual books written in English, French and Spanish. I have many target businesses that I can contact that might be interested in buying my books.

Here’s a list: 

  •  Spanish Immersion Schools 
  •  Before and after school  day-care centers
  •  Spanish Immersion  Summer  Day camps
  •  All elementary schools that offer Spanish or French.
  • Adult centers that offer English as a second language 
I am scheduling author presentations with the above businesses.    Being published is the first step; no one will buy your book if you do not market it.


In celebration of children’s book week, I encourage you to think about who is your target audience.   I am certain there are many children who need  to read your book;  you just need to go out and find the right place to market and sell your book.  Think of your book as the most important book that all children must read.   This is a great affirmation that will help you remain resolute in your quest to market your book.











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Tuesday, May 8, 2012


Making Time to Write
Welcome to day three of Children’s Book Week!



 To help escape from the depression of my two oldest attending college out of state; I would spend every spare moment writing.  Household chores piled up.  I drove my poor husband crazy until I came to realize I could no longer neglect my other responsibilities.  I later made the decision to schedule my writing during vacation from my teaching position.

During the first week of Christmas vacation 2009, I sat down to write and for some strange reason I drew a total blank.  I soon realized it is better to do a little writing every day.   Developing a daily habit of writing made it easier for my muse to flow.   There’s nothing more frustrating than staring at a blank computer screen.  I see writing daily as an integral way to stay connected to my creativity. 
  
Having a classroom full of students has been a tremendous way to get ideas for my writing. Therefore, before going to bed, I write for one hour.  

If you find that your day is too full to set time for writing, here’s what you can do.

1)      Start out with just half an hour a day- Everyone can find 30 minutes.  I gave up watching the evening news.

2)      Be creative- I purchased a netbook that I carry with me everywhere.  The netbook is lightweight and instead of taking a full 45 minutes for lunch, I spend the last 15 minutes writing.

3)      Going on vacation?  I take my netbook and get up early before heading out to tour or hang out on the beach or pool.  Doing this gives me a great feeling of accomplishment, and I am able to go have a grand time the rest of the day.

In celebration of children’s book week, I encourage those with a desire to write for children to make time to write.   Do not let a busy schedule keep you from developing yourself as a writer.  You never know how   the book you write may change the life of a child.  All it takes is one book that may be instrumental in helping a child develop a lifelong relationship with reading and learning.


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Be sure to visit the other blogs participating in the blog hop to increase your chances to win!


Guardian Angel Publishing Author Blogs:

Mayra Calvani - www.mayrassecretbookcase.blogspot.com
Margo Dill - www.margodill.com/blog
Margot Finke – www.hookkidsonreading.blogspot.com
Donna McDine - www.donna-mcdine.blogspot.com
Nancy Stewart - www.nancystewartbooks.blogspot.com
Kai Strand - www.kaistrand.blogspot.com