Sunday, May 4, 2014

MIGHTY DADS BOOK BLAST

Please join me in welcoming children's author, Joan Holub to my blog.  I am thrilled to host her during her book blast. Please take a moment to enter for a chance to win a $50 dollars Amazon gift card.


Mighty Dads by Joan Holub and James Dean

About the Book

Title: Mighty Dads | Author: Joan Holub | Illustrator: James Dean| Publication Date: April 29, 2014 | Publisher: Scholastic | Pages: 40 | Recommended Ages: 3+ Summary: A new constructacular picture book from the New York Times bestselling creator of Pete the Cat, James Dean and bestselling author, Joan Holub.Mighty dads, strong and tall,help their children, young and small.They keep them safe and bolted tightand show them how to build things right.
Inventively told through James Dean's colorful construction vehicle characters, MIGHTY DADS is an adoring dedication to hardworking fathers and the subtle ways they teach their boys and girls to follow in their tracks. The Dump Trucks learn to get dirty. Crane keeps his little one safe from harm. The busy Cement Mixer gives his daughter a hug. The Forklift cheers his son on. A surprising and touching view of a father's love for his children, MIGHTY DADS is the perfect way to say: I'm proud of you!  

Book Trailer

 

Purchase

Amazon | Barnes and Noble | Book Depository (free worldwide delivery)

Also available at Walmart, Target, and Barnes & Noble stores.

The Buzz

"Like the best 21st-century human dads, the vehicles don’t just show their kids the ropes—they also offer plenty of TLC (“Cement Mixer Busy/ gives a hug if Mixie’s dizzy”) and affirmation (“Forklift Wise/ cheers whenever Forky tries”). Dean’s decision to anthropomorphize the construction equipment solely through a highly stylized, often single, forward-facing eye takes some getting used to—imagine a cross between the Eye of Providence on the dollar bill and a Egyptian hieroglyph. But his construction sign–inspired palette and ability to convey calm, steady affection between parent and progeny quickly outweighs this visual idiosyncrasy, making this a book worthy of any young armchair foreman." ~ Publisher's Weekly
"This will make a good read aloud for those looking to update their trucks/machines storytimes." ~ Goodreads Review
"The simple rhyming text will be fun at read alouds as children can do motions (roll, roll, roll or smooth, smooth, smooth)" ~ Goodreads Review
 

About the Author: Joan Holub

Joan Holub author Mighty DadsJoan Holub is co-author of the best-selling Goddess Girls series, the Grimmtastic Girls series, and the Heroes in Training series. Her picture book Little Red Writing received three starred reviews and has been named to many Best-of lists. Her mighty cool dad inspired the creation of the picture book, Mighty Dads.

Website | Twitter | Pinterest | Goodreads | Facebook

   

About the Illustrator: James Dean

James Dean Author Pete the CatJames Dean is the creator of the best-selling Pete the Cat. Before James started painting Pete the Cat as a full-time profession in 1999, he wanted to paint cars and trucks. He loves things that go, and currently drives a 1971 VW bus camper and a 1959 Chevy truck. He worked as an electrical engineer for fifteen years before he decided to try to make a living with his paintings. James lives with his wife, five cats, and a pug named Little Emma.

Website | Twitter | Facebook | Amazon Page

     

Want a Chance to Win a Copy of "Mighty Dads"?

Mighty Dads by Joan Holub and James DeanBe sure to head on over to our review and giveaway of Mighty Dads for your chance to win a copy. Open US/Canada. Ends May 19, 2014. Just click on the cover below.  

* $50 Book Blast Giveaway *

Amazon $50 Gift Card Prize: One winner will receive a $50 Amazon Gift Card or PayPal cash (winner’s choice) Contest ends: May 31, 11:59 pm, 2014 Open: Internationally How to enter: Please enter using the Rafflecopter widget below. Terms and Conditions: NO PURCHASE NECESSARY TO ENTER OR WIN. VOID WHERE PROHIBITED BY LAW. A winner will be randomly drawn through the Rafflecopter widget and will be contacted by email within 48 hours after the giveaway ends. The winner will then have 72 hours to respond. If the winner does not respond within 72 hours, a new draw will take place for a new winner. Odds of winning will vary depending on the number of eligible entries received. This contest is in no way sponsored, endorsed or administered by, or associated with Facebook. This giveaway is sponsored by the author, Joan Holub and is hosted and managed by Renee from Mother Daughter Book Reviews. If you have any additional questions – feel free to send and email to Renee(at)MotherDaughterBookReviews(dot)com. a Rafflecopter giveaway MDBR Book Promotion Services

Thursday, May 1, 2014

#WE NEED DIVERSE BOOKS CAMPAIGN

When I was growing up, I often wondered why I never saw characters that looked like me in children's books.  I enjoyed reading, so I continued to read every book that were on display in my school's library.  As an adult, I still peruse the children section of my local library.  Even though there are more books with children of color as main characters, we still have a long way to go.  Today, I am happy to participate in a very special campaign designed to bring much needed attention to this important topic!

I am very proud that I've had the opportunity to make a small dent in the need for more diverse books.  I have written two books with black main characters.  My goal is to write more books in the near future!


Tuesday, April 29, 2014

Silence Voice by Barry Rudner

I am elated to host author Barry Rudner on my blog today.  He wrote a book that is a must read for all parents and teachers.  After reading Silence Voice, I knew right away this book is a winner.  The author chronicles in a very sensitive way the world of autistic children.  The story brought tears to my eyes. I encourage all of my readers to pick up a copy of this well written book.  Read below to find out more about Silence Voice. 







Purchase Info:

Title: Silent Voice

Genre: Children's fiction, Family

Author: Barry Rudner

Website: http://www.nickoftime.us

Publisher: Nick of Time Media, Inc.


SUMMARY:

A modern day allegory about autism awareness: that the only ought in autism is that we ought not ever give up. Ever.

BIO:

Barry Rudner has been an author/poet of self-esteem books for children for over thirty years, dealing with universal truths such as, reaching for your dreams, homelessness, undying friendships, disability awareness, always being yourself, autism awareness, hope and utter silliness. He firmly believes that we cannot educate our children unless they feel good about who they are; and ultimately, as they grow up, they will not feel good about themselves unless they educate themselves.

Links:




Monday, April 28, 2014

THE PRINCESS FABLES BOOK BLAST

I always look forward to helping other authors promote their books.  Today Please join me in welcoming Marc Clark, author of Princess Fables to my blog.  Hope you will take a few minutes to enter for a chance to win a $50 dollars Amazon gift card.  Thank you in advance for stopping by to support Marc.

The Princess Fables by Marc Clark  

About the Book

Title: The Princess Fables | Author: Marc Clark | Illustrator: Eric Hosford | Publication Date: December 5, 2013 | Publisher: Seven C's Productions | Pages: 115 | Recommended Ages: 3+ Summary: The Origins of THE PRINCESS FABLES: When the author's daughter was just beginning the first grade, she was not happy about school. So when he would wake her each morning, whatever she would say to get out of going became the subject for a PRINCESS FABLE. If she'd say, "I don't want to," he'd make up a tale about The Princess Who Always Said, "I Don't Wanna". If she pulled the covers over her head, he'd tell her the story of The Princess Who Hid Under The Covers. By the end of each Fable he'd have her dressed and ready for school, with her eyes wide open and full of hope... THE PRINCESS FABLES are eleven inspirational stories for young girls who may still dream of being a Princess. Each Princess embarks on an adventure of self discovery and along the way, learns about the importance of trust, devotion, courage and the power of love. These classic tales transport little girls to a time and place where they are the heroines and can create their own happy endings. Every delicate pen and ink illustration reflects the classic fairy tale drawings of the late 19th century. Award: The Princess Fables was just awarded an Honorable Mention at the 2014 Los Angeles Book Festival.  

Purchase

Amazon (Kindle) | Amazon (Print)

 

The Buzz

In a recent review by the Island Waves publication, Trey Seal wrote, “The Princess Fables is a book that brings back the nostalgia of the classic fairytales from our youth and is highly recommended for young children.”

Excerpts From Amazon Reviews:

"Marvelously original, soulful, and witty tales! Modern fables with funny and moving twists. I hope these stories make their way to kids everywhere!"
"What a beautifully illustrated and well-written book."
"A charming and witty read, with stunning illustrations. The Princess is adorable and the book conveys a very positive image for little girls."
"Great read for the little princess in us all!"
 

About the Author: Marc Clark

Marc Clark Author Marc Clark is the author of several plays and screenplays, a writer and producer of commercials, promos and television content. Marc is the father of two and currently resides in Manhattan.

Book Website | Twitter | Facebook | Instagram

   

* $50 Book Blast Giveaway *

Amazon $50 Gift Card Prize: One winner will receive a $50 Amazon Gift Card or PayPal cash (winner’s choice) Contest ends: May 27, 11:59 pm, 2014 Open: Internationally How to enter: Please enter using the Rafflecopter widget below. Terms and Conditions: NO PURCHASE NECESSARY TO ENTER OR WIN. VOID WHERE PROHIBITED BY LAW. A winner will be randomly drawn through the Rafflecopter widget and will be contacted by email within 48 hours after the giveaway ends. The winner will then have 72 hours to respond. If the winner does not respond within 72 hours, a new draw will take place for a new winner. Odds of winning will vary depending on the number of eligible entries received. This contest is in no way sponsored, endorsed or administered by, or associated with Facebook. This giveaway is sponsored by the author, Marc Clark and is hosted and managed by Renee from Mother Daughter Book Reviews. If you have any additional questions – feel free to send and email to Renee(at)MotherDaughterBookReviews(dot)com. a Rafflecopter giveaway MDBR Book Promotion Services

Monday, March 17, 2014

Donna M. McDine's Blog Tour





I am honored to host my good friend, award-winning author, Donna McDine on day nine of her blog tour. It is not too late to enter for a chance to win a $ 50 dollars gift certificate.   




Book Feature and Giveaway- Day Nine

The anticipation of summer vacation can put anyone in a great mood with the excitement of adventures to be had--especially at the beach. But what is a group of friends to do when they discover mysterious men poaching whale teeth at the beach?
EXCERPT:
The lifeguards had their arms extended and attempted to move the crowd back. The tallest lifeguard said, “People, please stay back. The authorities will arrive to examine the whale to determine the cause of death within the hour. The whale must have died at sea and washed ashore.”
PURCHASE AT:
Title: A Sandy Grave
Author: Donna M. McDine
Publisher: Guardian Angel Publishing
Pages: 24
Language: English
Genre: Tween chapterbook
Format: Paperback, hardcover & eBook
Donna McDine is an award-winning children's author, Honorable Mention in the 77th and two Honorable Mentions in the 78th Annual Writer’s Digest Writing Competitions, Literary Classics Silver Award & Seal of Approval Recipient Picture Book Early Reader, Readers Favorite 2012 International Book Awards Honorable Mention, Global eBook Awards Finalist Children’s Picture Book Fiction, and Preditors & Editors Readers Poll 2010 Top Ten Children’s Books ~ The Golden Pathway.
Her stories, articles, and book reviews have been published in over 100 print and online publications. Her interest in American History resulted in writing and publishing The Golden Pathway. Donna’s 2013 releases of Powder Monkey and Hockey Agony and the 2014 release of A Sandy Grave will be joined by an additional book to be published by Guardian Angel Publishing, Dee and Deb, Off They Go. She writes, moms and is a personal assistant from her home in the historical hamlet Tappan, NY. McDine is a member of the SCBWI, Children’s Literature Network, and Family Reading Partnership. 



A SANDY GRAVE TOUR SCHEDULE
Monday, March 3

Book trailer reveal at If Books Could Talk

Tuesday, March 4

Interview at As the Pages Turn

Wednesday, March 5


Friday, March 7


Monday, March 10

Guest post at Literarily Speaking

Tuesday, March 11

Book featured at The Writer’s Life

Wednesday, March 12


Thursday, March 13

Book review at Farm and Fru Fru

Monday, March 17

Book feature and giveaway at My Sister Is My Best Friend

Wednesday, March 19

Friday, March 21

First chapter reveal at Read My First Chapter

Monday, March 24

Book feature at Between the Covers

Tuesday, March 25

Book feature and giveaway at The Busy Mom’s Daily

Wednesday, March 26


Thursday, March 27

Book review at My Devotional Thoughts


Interview and giveaway at PUYB Virtual Book Club

Tuesday, April 1
Guest post at Strands of Thought

Wednesday, April 2
Guest post at Lori’s Reading Corner

Thursday, April 3
Character interview at Beyond the Books
Book trailer reveal at A Leisure Moment

Friday, April 4
Book review at A Leisure Moment

Monday, April 7
Book review at Blooming with Books

Tuesday, April 8
Interview at Blooming with Books

Wednesday, April 9
Book feature at 4 the Love of Books

Thursday, April 10
Friday, April 11
Monday, April 14
Book trailer reveal at 4 the Love of Books

Wednesday, April 16
Book feature and giveaway at Blooming with Books

Thursday, April 17
Book review at Mary’s Cup of Tea

Friday, April 18
Book review at By the Book

Monday, April 21
Book feature at Plug Your Book!

Wednesday, April 23
Book review at 4 the Love of Books
Book review at Mymcbooks’s Blog

Thursday, April 24
Book review at WV Stitcher

Friday, April 25
Book tour highlights at The Book Rack







Friday, March 14, 2014

The Magician's Doll Book Blast

Once again, I am happy to host another book blast sponsored by Mother, Daughter, Son Book Promotion Services.  Readers , please join me in welcoming author M.L. Roble to my blog. Hope you will take a moment to enter for a chance to win  a $25.00 dollars Amazon gift certificate.


About the Book

The Magician's Doll by M.L.Roble
Title: The Magician's Doll | Author: M.L. Roble | Publication Date: February 2, 2013
Publisher: Independent | Pages: 320 | Recommended Ages: 10+

Summary

"They are stronger. They are coming. They will arrive!" Life would be so much better for twelve-year-old Natalie if she and her mother weren’t different; other kids wouldn’t pick on her; she wouldn’t have to get into fights. She would have friends. But Natalie has abilities that set her apart, and despite her very best efforts to have a normal life, her developing “gift” has a way of upending them all. Then one day a big top circus rolls into town bringing with it Beausoleil the Magician, his daughter Louisa, and his mysterious doll. Strange things are afoot with Beausoleil’s arrival, and in his wake, an eerie storm is approaching. Soon Natalie discovers there is more to her world and the people around her than she knew, and that being different is just the tip of the iceberg... The Magician’s Doll sparks readers’ imaginations with a tale of magical discoveries, profound friendships, a fight against evil, and the growth that comes with facing your fears and accepting who you are.
 

Purchase the Book

Amazon | Barnes & Noble | iTunes | Kobo | The Book Bin

 

The Buzz

"The story of exceptional and gifted beings secretly living among us is timeless; this exhilarating book is an impressive treatment of that classic storyline. The writing is fast and clear, with a well-developed plot and perfect buildup of action and suspense." ~ 5 Star Review, G. Wagner, Amazon
"This is perfect for kids of the middle grade age. It forces them to look at the way they treat each other and their differences. It makes them look at what true friendship is and what they would do in certain circumstances. I am sure this book was written to be a wonderful story, yet I find it is a great example of teaching kids something without them realizing they are learning I will definitely continue to recommend this book to parents and students." ~ 5 Star Review, Sandra S., Amazon
"I am a eighth grader, and was told to read this book by a friend. I am a huge fan of fantasy and magic, and thoroughly enjoyed this book. I found it well thought through with colorful characters from a variety of backgrounds. The concepts and ideas are fresh and interesting, I especially enjoyed the idea of travel through maps, like Phillipe. I would DEFINITELY recommend this book to all my friends, and will do so as soon as possible." ~ 5 Star Review, Eugenia, Amazon
 

About the Author: M.L. Roble

M.L. RobleM. L. Roble's desire to write a children's novel stems from the nostalgia of her own middle grade reading years where she first experienced books like "The Chronicles of Narnia" and "The Shattered Stone". There have been different books and genres since, but those years fueled an enchantment for story that continues to this day.

Website | Twitter | Facebook | Google+

 

* Book Blast Giveaway *

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


  a Rafflecopter giveaway


MDBR Book Promotion Services Copyright © 2014 Mother Daughter Book Reviews, All rights reserved. You are receiving this email because you signed up to participate in The Magician's Doll Book Blast. Our mailing address is: Mother Daughter Book Reviews N/A Vancouver, BC V5N2B9 Canada Add us to your address book unsubscribe from this list update subscription preferences

Wednesday, March 5, 2014

Donna M. McDine's Blog Tour






I am honored to host day three of Donna McDine's blog tour , for her newly released book, A Sandy Grave.   Please join me in welcoming her and take a moment to read her blog post. Be sure to check out the tour schedule below.  Donna is giving away a $50.00 dollars Barnes and Noble gift card. I invite all visitors to take a  few minutes to enter the giveaway.




Bringing Meaning Back into Your Lives by Donna McDine

With the ever-growing fast pace of our lives it’s difficult to not feel guilty when we do take a moment to put the brakes on and truly relish the quiet. These not often enough moments and reconnecting on a personal basis is our opportunity to bring meaning back into our lives.

In my own life, it is becoming ever apparent that I have been getting too caught up in all the technology at our fingertips. I am making it a point to disengage from technology at a certain point each day and not to turn the technology on until I’m ready to begin my day. That means, not sneaking a quick peek at email while the teakettle is coming to a boil. We all know what the quick peek means, don’t we? For me, it always ends up being 30-40 minutes and before I know it, I’ve missed that important timeframe of sitting down and enjoying a hearty breakfast before the day truly gets underway.

For quite some time, my husband and I have not allowed cell phones or any other type of technology at the dinner table. We find this to be an important opportunity to engage with our children through face-to-face conversation with each of us showing a true interest in each other’s lives. My dad started invoking this at family gatherings and not allowing cell phones to be used. At first, the grandchildren groaned. After the first time around, it was quite interesting how not just the lively conversations ensued, but how interest was taken back up in the board and card games the grandchildren used to participate in as young children. It’s not even a question anymore when the family gets together. Time spent together is focused on being together and not technology.

When someone is constantly checking his or her cell phone for the latest tweet, text, or Instagram, it’s quite disheartening for the individual you are visiting with. Being so wrapped up in technology and ignoring the living, breathing people around you, definitely sets a tone that you don’t feel the person in your presence is important enough.

Go ahead, I dare you. Turn off that darn cell phone the next time you are out with your best friend or spouse for dinner. In case of emergency situations, leave the restaurant phone number with the babysitter or your teenager. And if something arises that is truly an emergency they will still be able to each you. I promise you this, you will digest your food better, you will remember the dinner conversation fondly, and your drive home will be more peaceful because you won’t feel that you are pulled in too many directions.

I’d enjoy hearing about how you keep and plan to keep the outside world from intruding on special times had together without the interference of technology.

Thanks, Nicole, for hosting me during my Pump Up Your Book virtual book tour. I truly appreciate our friendship from the west coast to the east coast. In this instance, technology is terrific!


The anticipation of summer vacation can put anyone in a great mood with the excitement of adventures to be had--especially at the beach. But what is a group of friends to do when they discover mysterious men poaching whale teeth at the beach?

EXCERPT:

The lifeguards had their arms extended and attempted to move the crowd back. The tallest lifeguard said, “People, please stay back. The authorities will arrive to examine the whale to determine the cause of death within the hour. The whale must have died at sea and washed ashore.”

PURCHASE AT:

Title: A Sandy Grave
Author: Donna M. McDine
Publisher: Guardian Angel Publishing
Pages: 24
Language: English
Genre: Tween chapterbook
Format: Paperback, hardcover & eBook


Donna McDine is an award-winning children's author, Honorable Mention in the 77th and two Honorable Mentions in the 78th Annual Writer’s Digest Writing Competitions, Literary Classics Silver Award & Seal of Approval Recipient Picture Book Early Reader, Readers Favorite 2012 International Book Awards Honorable Mention, Global eBook Awards Finalist Children’s Picture Book Fiction, and Preditors & Editors Readers Poll 2010 Top Ten Children’s Books ~ The Golden Pathway.
Her stories, articles, and book reviews have been published in over 100 print and online publications. Her interest in American History resulted in writing and publishing The Golden Pathway. Donna’s 2013 releases of Powder Monkey and Hockey Agony and the 2014 release of A Sandy Grave will be joined by an additional book to be published by Guardian Angel Publishing, Dee and Deb, Off They Go. She writes, moms and is a personal assistant from her home in the historical hamlet Tappan, NY. McDine is a member of the SCBWI, Children’s Literature Network, and Family Reading Partnership. 

Visit Donna online at www.donnamcdine.com or her blog at www.donna-mcdine.blogspot.com


A SANDY GRAVE TOUR SCHEDULE
Monday, March 3

Book trailer reveal at If Books Could Talk

Tuesday, March 4

Interview at As the Pages Turn

Wednesday, March 5


Friday, March 7


Monday, March 10

Guest post at Literarily Speaking

Tuesday, March 11

Book featured at The Writer’s Life

Wednesday, March 12


Thursday, March 13

Book review at Farm and Fru Fru

Monday, March 17

Book feature and giveaway at My Sister Is My Best Friend

Wednesday, March 19

Friday, March 21

First chapter reveal at Read My First Chapter

Monday, March 24

Book feature at Between the Covers

Tuesday, March 25

Book feature and giveaway at The Busy Mom’s Daily

Wednesday, March 26


Thursday, March 27

Book review at My Devotional Thoughts


Interview and giveaway at PUYB Virtual Book Club

Tuesday, April 1
Guest post at Strands of Thought

Wednesday, April 2
Guest post at Lori’s Reading Corner

Thursday, April 3
Character interview at Beyond the Books
Book trailer reveal at A Leisure Moment

Friday, April 4
Book review at A Leisure Moment

Monday, April 7
Book review at Blooming with Books

Tuesday, April 8
Interview at Blooming with Books

Wednesday, April 9
Book feature at 4 the Love of Books

Thursday, April 10
Friday, April 11
Monday, April 14
Book trailer reveal at 4 the Love of Books

Wednesday, April 16
Book feature and giveaway at Blooming with Books

Thursday, April 17
Book review at Mary’s Cup of Tea

Friday, April 18
Book review at By the Book

Monday, April 21
Book feature at Plug Your Book!

Wednesday, April 23
Book review at 4 the Love of Books
Book review at Mymcbooks’s Blog

Thursday, April 24
Book review at WV Stitcher

Friday, April 25
Book tour highlights at The Book Rack