Writer and Dreamer at work

’PERFECT PICTURE BOOK’ – Friday

Posted on 10/03/2012 by Diane Tulloch

My Own Stories First Writing Adventures in Literacy

Author: Ruth Thomson

Publisher and Illustrator: Chrysalis Education, 2004

Ages: About 7 years and up

Theme: NonFiction, Language, Creative Writing, Art, Illustration

Opening Line: Once upon a time, an old man planted a little turnip.

Synopsis: The above is not the very first line in the book as the first page tells about what the book is about; learning the skills of story writing, and story telling. This is one of a series of “First Writing” books with ideas for creating all kinds of stories and introducing young children to the world of Literacy. This lively book features beautifully – illustrated versions of new and traditional tales for reading aloud. Using these as frameworks for writing, it encourages children to create their own stories. It provides guidance on how to plan a story and on using the language of story writing.

Why I Like it: Actually when I first glanced through the pages of this book my first thought was that if I hadn’t done an online course , joined a hub, or come upon such a wonderful source of online writers as I have done, this could have possibly have been the next best thing. It simply explains ways of bringing a story to life on a page. I liked that it referred to – before children can successfully write stories of their own they need to absorb the language, rhythm, pattern and shape of existing stories by listening to them and reading aloud.

The book is split into 6 double pages of retelling old stories, on the second double pages the young writers are guided in writing their own version with illustrated prompts. Pull out flap provides alphabetical list of common words to help them. There are also helpful suggestions and ways to use prompts as well as hints on the use of story-writing language and reminders about using punctuation, capital letters and connecting words. There is also at the back more writing ideas, how to use story maps and acting out stories and how to change and edit. The author, Ruth, makes this a very easy step, by step guide.

Resources: Here are some other books in the series and an online site to order from … http://www.fishpond.co.nz/Books/My-Own-Stories-First-Writing-Ruth-Thomson/9781844583294

This is a fantastic site of Ruth Thomson books, great for school, home schooling and education… http://www.mightyape.co.nz/search/0/Ruth+Thomson/?gclid=CJ-An5v12a4CFQYdpAod5ma8bw

A great site for kids learning to make their own stories into books, kids and you will love this…… http://learnenglishkids.britishcouncil.org/en/make-your-own/story-maker

An interview on a blog from the illusive author Ruth Thomson….. http://thewholemegillah.wordpress.com/2011/11/15/five-in-one-notebook-special-children%e2%80%99s-books-about-terezin-from-candlewick-%e2%80%93-editors-authors-publicist/

For more books with resources please visit the lovely author Susanna Leonard Hill’s blog and find the tab for Perfect Picture Books. Her blog is full of resources links and activities associated with the books reviewed by many authors.

Posted in ideas for writing, Picture Book Review | Tagged Creative Writing, Ruth Thomson, Storytelling | 32 Comments

THE KREATIV AND SUNSHINE AWARDS

Posted on 07/03/2012 by Diane Tulloch

I am one lucky bunny lately, with winning prizes and now awards, and it’s only just the first week of March!

Earlier this year I received the prestigious “Kreativ Blog” award from that handsome young dude over on “This Kid Writes Reviews” . Erik might only be ten years old but he can certainly hold his own when it comes to reviewing books and interviewing published authors. He now has his own column in a local rag and also gives impressive interviews! Want to know more? Then pop over to his incredible blog. The rules are to tell ten interesting facts about yourself and pass the award on to six others.

Another award I received a couple of days ago was the Sunshine award from Darlene of a lovely blog called Darlene Foster’s Blog. A published author of two very interesting books Amanda in Arabia and Amanda in Spain, she is working on a third (see I do read blogs), and I have learned that Darlene is very much like me, a dreamer and loves to travel, she also has two cats named pumpkin and monkey (I daren’t ask how those names came about)..lol. The rules are tell ten facts about yourself and pass on to ten others.

Now!…. lol For each I am suppose to tell ten things about myself… mmm well that makes twenty things, but I am not going to bore you with that so I will only do ten things.

1. Favourite colour is pink

2. hated maths (only because I couldn’t do it)

3. Hated the dentist even more (still do)

4. Got lost twice going to my new shop where I now work…. Lol

5. On my 40^thBirthday I walked around at work all day with a sign on my back that said as much, without knowing it. (I know who did that)

6. Hubby and I during a change of planes on our way home in Australia nearly boarded the wrong plane. No one noticed till we got to the steward at the doorway to direct us to our seats, that this plane was going to JAPAN!

7. watched people having a fish pedicure in the markets in Cambodia, too chicken to put my feet in for fear they would eat my feet alive. (I have such very dry skin, and these little fish eat dead skin)

8. Got terribly burnt on a cruise around the Greek Islands and learnt from the staff on board that yogurt is the best after sunburn treatment to use on your skin (have used it ever since and recommend it).

9. Some years ago when my second oldest brother got married and while away on honeymoon, with the help of my hubby I painted “just married” signs on the road in front of their house (it was a quiet street at in the dead of night), painted another on their driveway and then proceeded to hang a huge similar sign up in front of their house, strung from one tree to the next, except that they arrived home unexpectedly and gave us such a fright that I fell down the tree, breaking branches and scratching my legs as I went, landing with one foot in a bucket……. (you had to be there to see it)

10. I taught my little cavalier King Charles spaniel, to board surf, (have a pic around somewhere)

Now for the hard part, to pass these awards on to others, *oh soooo many to choose*…… I thought I would share just a few of the many websites I have enjoyed so here they are..

Donna at : On the Write Track check out her very inspiring blog for the body and soul of writing.

Penny at: A Penny and her Jots A fellow writer enjoying her writing, check out her interesting blog.

Amy at: A million Words Join Amy as she looks forward to her new book due out in the fall this year.

Barbara at: Grade ONEderful This is a sweet colourful blog, and she is a dab-hand at making games… check it out.

Abigail and her Mum Tray at: Tray and A Check out the new mother and daughter team who are sharing their thoughts and fun with us, along with participating in the 12x12in12.

Clar at: Clarbojahn’s Blog A fellow writer with a new book due out any day and enjoying taking part in the 4th Platform Challenge and 12x12in12…. Go Clar!!

Loni at: Loni Edwards Blog Check out Loni’s colourful blog, she’s a wonderful illustrator and has a gallery full of artistic pics.

Please take some time to check these lovely websites out and get to know the owners and you will see why I love them to.

Posted in Blogs, Children's literature | Tagged Writers Resources | 25 Comments

“PERFECT PICTURE BOOK” – Friday

Posted on 03/03/2012 by Diane Tulloch

No matter how you look at it you are going to need tissues for this one. This is a moving tender historical fiction you will remember long after you have finished reading.

Stefania’s dancing slippers

Author: Jennifer Beck

Illustrator: Lindy Fisher

Publisher: Scholastic in November 2007

Age: 6 years and up

Theme: Cultural, Courage, Separation, confinement, war

Opening Line: Stefania loved to dance. When she was five years old her parents gave her a special gift – a pair of dancing slippers. Stefania’s father had shaped the soles from the softest deerskin, and her mother had embroidered the uppers with brightly coloured thread and shiny beads. “For Christmas, I’ll make you a dancing costume,” her mother promised.

Synopsis: Five year old Stefania never got to have her dancing costume. War came to Poland and her father went away to fight and Stefania and her mother were moved into a work camp in Russia where they endured hardships and worked during the war. Eventually allowed to move south they were separated and Stefania found herself shipped to New Zealand. Years later she hears news of her father.

Here is the explanatory note from the author and illustrator that appears at the end of the book:

The Polish Children of Pahiatua

On 1 November 1944, over 700 Polish refugee children and their caregivers were welcomed to New Zealand. These were the survivors of an epic wartime journey that had begun years before, on the far side of the world.

Unlike most of the children who greeted them, they had known deportation, loss, starvation and homelessness. They carried a few possessions in a bundle under their arms. Any personal links with their past were treasured.

Over sixty years later, when we read and listened to the stories of some of these people, we were moved by the hardship they had endured, and the ways in which they had found the strength to survive. We marvelled at the faith, beauty and hope that sustain humanity in difficult times. As a result, we wanted to share their story so that it could be understood by children today.

Although set against the background of war, this is a story of courage, love, and the strength of family ties. These themes are extended in the concepts and details of the paintings.

Stefania is a fictional character who represents some of those children who brought the face of war to New Zealand that day. Her dancing slippers are a fragile symbol of positive qualities which endure despite the harshness of war. “Choose one thing that’s most precious to you. That’s all we can take.”

And on the Back of the Book:

Stefania’s choice helps bring her comfort through years of hardship, separation, and a journey of thousands of miles. Set against a background of war, this is a story of courage and love, brought to life by award-winning team, Jennifer Beck and lindy Fisher.

Why I like this story: Because it moves me, has depth and feeling, although there is a sadness there is also joy. This kind of story one cannot put down until finished.

As a member of an Austrian cultural dance group I have heard a few stories of the Austrians who came out to New Zealand and have joined the Polish and other cultural groups performing in festivals held over the years here in New Zealand and appreciate what some and their families must have gone through to be where they are today. It is books like these that will help the children of today and tomorrow understand. A window into life as it was.

Resources/links and findings: This link gives information on the award winning author and her other books…. http://www.bookcouncil.org.nz/writers/beckjennifer.html The Polish Museum in Auckland New Zealand displays some of the pictures from the book…… http://www.eventfinder.co.nz/2012/lindy-fisher-stefanias-dancing-slippers/auckland/howick Here is a beautiful traditional polish dance video… http://www.youtube.com/watch?feature=player_detailpage&v=BXYKkb-SynM and a world fact book search for kids and teachers… http://kids.yahoo.com/reference/world-factbook/country/pl–Poland

Posted in Folklore / multicultural, Picture book, Picture Book Review | Tagged Jennifer Beck, Lindy Fisher, Picture book | 36 Comments

“SPECIAL GUEST POST”: Virginia Grenier – From Buyer to Writer

Posted on 29/02/2012 by Diane Tulloch

I am so excited to be finally welcoming a very special guest whom I have known, oh gosh!, for a few years now, since she critiqued a draft of my novel (still a work in progress), after I found her on the internet. Very green and not knowing anything about how to approach editors or agents, or about writing in general, I remember my email asking if she would take a look and tell me whether it was worth my while continuing or should we just bin my story. Her warm and surprising email was the catalyst to my writing life today, and I still have that email. She is also the angel who came to my rescue with a copy of the critiqued novel, on hearing my copy had been stolen from my car the other week along with my laptop.

At the time when I “met” Virginia she was already a published author and had just started an online children’s magazine, as well as being a freelance editor, and Mum of two. Over the years her writing life has grown with the Magazine website, boasting, educator pages, featured quests, and teacher/parent resources. She now has workshops, has her own publishing company, still works as a freelance editor, runs a critique service, newsletter and now has her own radio show “Blog Talk” with Marsha Cook, interviewing authors, publishers and agents. Not to mention “Blog Hops” and “World of Ink Tours” and assisting authors with Book Trailers… Coming out from hiding in my side bar and here to tell us how she made her dreams come true….. my friend, Writer/Publishing guru……. Virginia Grenier..

FROM BUYER TO WRITER

I grew up flying with my father. He was an airline pilot for many years. My mother worked full-time in the banking industry. With a father in the airlines, I found myself being moved from place to place. I attended five different elementary schools and three high schools.

At 18, I graduated from High school without a clue to who I wanted to be. The Fashion Institute of Design and Merchandising was suggested and I worked my way to from part-time sales to a buyer in the world of fashion. I really enjoyed the traveling, fashion shows and networking. I worked for many major specialty stories such as Fredericks of Hollywood, Motherhood Maternity, Causal Corner, Hot Topic, Torrid, and Brighton Collectibles.

After working in fashion for many years, I found it very hard to raise my son and spend time with my family. I was lucky enough to have a supportive husband. After we found out that baby number two was on her way, we made the choice to move out of California to Utah. I gave up buying to be a stay at home mommy. My husband became the breadwinner working for the city. I finally got what I wanted, to spend what time I had left of my son’s childhood and not miss out on my daughters. Being home with two kids, I found myself journaling stories about their childhood. From there, stories just seemed to pop into my head. I wanted to share these stories with others. That is how I came across The Institute of Children’s Literature. I learned how to hone my writing skills.

I’m not going to lie to you. I received my first acceptance letter after my first course assignment at ICL. No, I hadn’t taken any other writing workshops or courses elsewhere. I haven’t been writing since I could hold a pencil or pen. I was just plain lucky.

The thing is I believe anyone can do this if they just set their mind to it. That was my trick. Honest. I just set my mind to getting published and I did. There is much to be said about having drive and determination. As a writer, I think this is a key factor to anyone’s success at publication.

Ok, so how did I do it? Well, I sat down and read lots about how to write a successful query letter. I took notes on the key points I really liked. This way I had my own personal format.

I typed up a rough draft and I revised it. Then I revised it some more and some more after that. Don’t think revisions are only for your manuscripts. You also need to revise your query letters and book proposals.

Then I choose a market to write for. In my case, I choose to write for an on-line magazine. I choose this type of publication for many reasons. First, it’s a non-paying market and therefore will not be over loaded with submissions. Most writers want to be paid. But for a newbie like me, this was the way to get noticed. Second, I wanted to build writing credits. Money is nice, but you need to show you can draft a story before most editors are willing to write you a check.

Third, I wanted to learn about the publishing process. Working with an editor and seeing my name in print.

After I found the magazine, I checked to see if there was a list of stories wanted or an editorial calendar. I lucked out. There was! And the editor was looking for a story about aviation. Well that was right up my alley. I’m a daughter of an airline pilot. Talk about luck.

So now what? I have my market. I have my subject for a story. What else do I need? A really great story for little kids! I sat down and started to brainstorm. I thought about all my experiences in a plane. Then I started thinking about my dad and how he started out as a pilot. And that’s how my story, Flying Upside Down was born.

I took three different stories my dad had told me as a little girl. He was born wanting to fly and did everything possible, short of breaking bones. I remembered how he built a cardboard box plane and pushed it out of a tree thinking it would fly. Then there was his bike plane and lastly the plane he built in high school, which did make it off the ground.

After putting all these together, I had my story. I wrote my query letter and then the big brick wall came up. None of the books talked about submitting a query letter via email. What was I to do? Well a little switching around and I had an email ready query letter. I hit the send button and the rest…we’ll just say is history.

Since then, I have published over 50 short stories and articles for children and writers. One of my short stories, SugarPaw and the Babysitter,published at StoryBox Library Online, later became my 2011 LUW Silver Quill Award-winning picture book, BABYSITTING SUGARPAW, published by Halo Publishing Int. in 2009. I am currently working on two YA books and three picture books. One is a follow up to BABYSITTING SUGARPAW.

I am also the founder & owner of Stories for Children Publishing, LLC., award-winning editor-in-chief of Stories for Children Magazine and chief editor for Halo Publishing, Int. In addition, to running my own editorial and critique services, I teach basic writing for my local college’s continuing educational program, am a host at the World of Ink Network at Blog Talk Radio and founder and tour coordinator of The World of Ink Virtual Author/Book Tours. I am also a member of the League of Utah Writers (HWG chapter and its current president), Society of Children’s Book Writers and Illustrators (SCBWI) and Musing Our Children.

I do look forward to many more success stories as I journey down the writing path and hope to share what I learn with others along the way.

Thank you for having me and please follow me on:
Facebook http://www.facebook.com/vsgrenier
Twitter http://twitter.com/vsgrenier.com
The Writing Mama blog http://thewritingmama.blogspot.com
Blog Talk Radio’s World of Ink Network
http://www.blogtalkradio.com/worldofinknetwork

Thankyou so much Virginia for coming and sharing this insightful look into your writing journey and writing process. Many of my readers have never met Virginia before and you will find it interesting visiting her blog.

Virginia has agreed to come back and do a followup interview with me talking about founding the “World of Ink Virtual Author/Book Tours” and also discuss hosting the “World of Ink Network at Blog Talk Radio” Program. So if you have any questions you would like asked please do not hesitate to email me with your questions at.. dianestoy@ihug.co.nz Thankyou again for stopping by.

Posted in Children's literature, Interviews | Tagged Publish, Writer, Writers Resources | 25 Comments

A Promotion, an Interview, and a Farewell

Posted on 26/02/2012 by Diane Tulloch

The past couple of weeks have been one of nail-biting excitement for me. Why you wonder! Did I get an Agent, did I get a publisher, have a signed a contract? Alas! No none of those, but just as exciting, nerve-racking just the same. Let me explain.

Last week I finally signed on the dotted line for my new position as Manager of my own shop. The phone, both at work and my cell, have been running red-hot ever since and emails splash across my work screen of congratulations, has been so sweet and exciting. I didn’t realise how many would be so thrilled for me.

Secondly I was interviewed on a writing buddies blog, see here, which I had never done before and, quite frankly never thought I would be asked to do. Nail biting? You betcha. Just waiting for the posting and wondering what the feedback would be like… *smiles, hits side of face* and I am now wondering what on earth I was worried about. The feedback and comments was amazing. I love reading all the other writers interviews, in our 12x12in12 group and indeed across the internet, and I am in awe of their commitment, dedication, their inner belief, their superb control and strength that enables them to spur on regardless of hurdles in their way. Best of all is the feedback, the connection that reminds one, that you are not alone, are not that far away. Oh it is so nice to be a part of such a wonderful writers group.

Thirdly, this past week finished in a Farewell party provided for me at my old shop which I have been working at for the past 39 years…hang on, before you faint,….. 2 months and 27 days … and I am not going to count the hours and minutes….LOL. I certainly will miss them, miss the building, the customers I have come to know and know me well and all the staff that are left behind. True we will always be in contact, but it won’t be quite the same. Many staff that have passed through I have managed to stay in contact with to this day, which is really nice, and they are special. My “old” (that’s a joke because I am old enough to be his Mum) boss during his speech commented, my ability to know, understand and care about all staff, both professionally and personally. He admitted (now I am leaving) that he will miss me terribly….. aww… that was sweet and brought tears to my eyes. I promised myself I would not shed any tears. I was a good girl… I didn’t, well! Not till I had, had a few drinks and was at home and it sunk in…..LOL. Now enjoying a relaxing weekend and finally some good summer weather.

Thought you might like a laugh. I tried to find a couple of pictures of me with dark hair, I played the part of “snow white” for a day at work one Christmas week back in the 1980’s. (the glass stain window in the background was one of my creative whims). It’s only been the last 5 years that I have gone blonde. (sorry for the very poor quality taken by cellphone) I only found this one. Enjoy.

Posted in Literature | 27 Comments

“PERFECT PICTURE BOOK” – Friday

Posted on 25/02/2012 by Diane Tulloch

The Famous Nini : A Mostly true Story of How a Plain White Cat Became a Star

Author: Mary Nethery

Illustrated by: John Manders.

Published: Clarion Books 2010

Age: 3 – and up

Theme: Cats, Cultural, friendship, Historical, Performing Arts

Opening Page: Long ago in Venice, on the Piazza San Marco, Nonna Framboni owned a caffe. She served strong coffee and sweet treats. But the caffe was so small, people passed by as if it didn’t exist. One afternoon, Nonna opened the door, hoping the scent of coffee might bring in a customer. There sat a plain white cat. “Nini the stray,” said Nonna. “Every day you beg on the piazza. Now I find you at my door. But I have no food to spare, not even a scrap.”

Synopsis: A stray white cat begging in the streets of Venice makes its home in a caffe run by its poor owner. Renowned composer Verdi wanders into the cafe to work on his latest opera. Unable to come up with just the right note until Nini meows, Verdi is thrilled and begins to frequent the cafe. The enterprising owner puts up a sign, The Great Verdi Takes His Coffee Here, and soon customers begin to flock to the cafe to see the famous composer as well as the now-famous cat. The King and Queen visited as did the Pope as did many famous people and Nini was declared Noble. When a small child of the Emperor visits we wonder if Nini can perform a miracle.

Why I Like this: There are many reasons why this book caught my attention. It’s cultural theme, and I love Venice – who dosen’t! As the jacket flap on the inside cover states…. Acts of kindness can be rewarded in unexpected ways, …. I also am a lover of cats and this book showed the special qualities that only cats posses. The story is engaging and on the back page is the Author’s Note of how the story came about including, the characters within. It’s the kind of story I hope to write. John Manders’ illustrations are rich, colourful and give one the feeling of being a patron of the caffe.

Activities/Links/Findings: Here are a couple of beautiful pictures and Author’s notes from the back pages;….. http://books.google.co.nz/books?id=NPdOOFYAqNoC&pg=PA32&lpg=PA32&dq=The+famous+Nini&source=bl&ots=GMIkL_qoWX&sig=8FJv3KL2Vl4-BIU-qO-ElQqxr7M&hl=en&sa=X&ei=IB9GT8y3GqOdiQKupfDaDQ&ved=0CDoQ6AEwBA#

The authors websites: http://www.marynethery.com/ Authors website and book trailer… http://www.marynethery.com/nini.html

Get to know more famous cats at the library…. http://www.times-standard.com/lifestyle/ci_18727655

A suggestion to invite discussion with in the classroom would be to ask children to write down what acts of kindness they have done or could do for one another or family members.

Also here is a great website of Fun Facts for Kids…. http://www.venere.com/blog/venice-fun-facts/

Posted in 12x12in12, Folklore / multicultural, Picture book, Picture Book Review | Tagged John Manders, Mary Nethery, Performing arts | 44 Comments

“PERFECT PICTURE BOOK” – FRIDAY

Posted on 17/02/2012 by Diane Tulloch

Catherine’s Story

Author: Genevieve Moore

Illustrators: Karin Littlewood

Theme: Disability

Age Range: 5-7 years

Opening Page: Catherine is a special girl and she can do special things. Catherine has a special walk too.

Jacket Flap: What makes Catherine so special? Lots of things, says Catherine’s dad. She can clap her hands quietly so that no one can hear. She walks smoothly in boots no one else can walk in. And she’s a really good listener….

Synopsis: Based on the authors niece this beautiful, tender story helps young readers understand that we should look on those with disabilities not as different, but as special. Catherine’s dad gently points out to Frances, Catherine’s cousin, the special things Catherine can do, even allowing Frances to try and walk in the special shoes Catherine has to wear to enable her to walk aided. Frances falls over , realising Catherine can do things, she herself cannot. Catherine cannot talk but she can listen, not many of us take the time to listen carefully to others even if, like Catherine we do not understand. Throughout this story one feels the special bond between father and his precious daughter.

Why I liked this: The first thing that attracted me to this story was the love this father had for his daughter, which brought tears to my eyes (not having seen or spoken to my own father since my teens) it touched me greatly. This is Genevieve’s first Picture book and she has done a wonderful job of making us want to turn the page to learn more about Catherine. A “Note” in the back of the book refers to Genevieve’s niece whom Catherine is based on, who suffered from a kind of epilepsy known as infantile spasms or West Syndrome, which left her profoundly and multiply learning disabled. She is unable to walk, talk or perform any normal daily living activities including feeding or dressing herself. Karen Littlewood from England’s beautiful painted illustrations are well researched with authentic expressions of a little girl in a world of her own. This is a lovely story of “hope”.

Resources/Links: A couple of blogs I found give research, advice and support groups to parents….. http://rarediseases.info.nih.gov/GARD/Condition/7887/West_syndrome.aspx

http://www.wssg.org.uk/

The following website has some links for living with epilepsy and resources..

http://www.epilepsy.com/EPILEPSY/EPILEPSY_INFANTILESPASMS

A lovely Blog with wonderful reviews of Books dealing in coping with Disabilities within the family, and researched resource links is …. http://childrensbooksheal.com/

Posted in Picture Book Review | Tagged Support group, West syndrome | 35 Comments

“Valentines Day Contest”

Posted on 12/02/2012 by Diane Tulloch

Over on Susanna’s Blog she is hosting a “Valentines Day Contest”, about an unlikely Valentine. I love her blog it’s always full of fun articles and interesting, inspiring information. We’ve been asked to submit a childrens poem or prose in no more than 200 words,… well it was 150 but she’s changed it now. I am not great at producing something so quick without a lot of thought and time, hence my hesitation. I like to try my hand at something fun, even though I know it is not really my field, but hey… it is fun to try, and I have so enjoyed visiting the other contestants whom I know are so out of my league. So forgive me this silly little poem I came up with.

Said the Thorn to the Rose

Said the Thorn to the Rose

“Will you be my Valentine?”

Said the Rose to the Thorn

“I’ll be yours if you’ll be mine”

Said the Thorn to the Rose

“Will you hold my hand?”

Said the Rose to the Thorn

“Indeed as we survey our land”

Said the Thorn to the Rose

“With me will you dance?”

Said the Rose to the Thorn

“Yes lets, but watch out for the plants”

Said the Thorn to the Rose

“I adore your flushed petalled face”

Said the Rose to the Thorn

“From the pleasure of your armoured embrace”

Said the Thorn to the Rose,

“Will you be mine for ever more?”

Said the Rose to the Thorn

“Of course, you’re the only one that I adore”.

****************************

Posted in 12x12in12, ideas for writing | 54 Comments

“Perfect Picture Book” – Friday

Posted on 11/02/2012 by Diane Tulloch

“Happy Feet’s Incredible Journey – The story of the world’s most famous penguin.

Created and Published by; Forest and Bird and Penquin GroupNZ Ltd

Published in: November 2011

Age: 4 – 8 year olds.

Theme: Environmental, the life of, hope, survival, animals, learning.

Opening Page: I’d been swimming for a very long time. I don’t know how long, but it was getting hard to move my flippers. that’s when I noticed I was close to land.

Synopsis/ Back Page: On 21 June 2011 a lonely emperor penguin stepped onto Peka Peka Beach near Wellington and into the hearts of the world. He had swum further from his home in Antarctica than any emperor penguin ever recorded.

What did he think of the strange place he had come to? What did he think of the people he met? Why did he eat all that sand and get so sick? And how did he feel when it was finally time to go home?

By the time he left New Zealand Happy Feet was the world’s most famous penguin. This is his story.

Written in first voice, we enter the mind of this amazing cute animal, his thoughts about his treatment and his handlers and the visitors who came to see him. Each page has been cleverly set out with photos taken during his stay, and a note pad print of “Did you Know” facts about the emperor penguins, their survival, habitat, and information on how they kept Happy Feet (as he was named) alive and people involved. The pages background is simply illustrated in clean blue hues.

Why I like this: The illustrations and photos are very informative a great resource and discussion book for schools inviting children to take interest in the Antarctic and life there. The illustrations give this sweet little guy a sense of humour , one illustration shows him holding his x rays commenting ” I must have been one sick penguin…..” Referring men in jackets as penguins. While we smile and learn much from this little character we also sympathise his anxious wish to return home. Children and adults will love this wonderfully set out picture book about an event that actually happened and the people who cared.

When Happy Feet was released back into the sea a transmitter attached to him stopped transmitting after some time and he has not been heard of since…. many speculate what might have happened. What I liked most is royalties from this book go to Forest and Bird’s Places for Penguins programme.

Resources/Findings: Forest and Bird’s Places for penguins programme website: www.forestandbird.org.nz

http://tvnz.co.nz/lifestyle-news/happy-feet-s-incredible-journey-book-review-4634665 TV NZ ‘s book review

http://www.stuff.co.nz/environment great environmental information website.

http://www.ourfarsouth.org/Farewell-Happy-Feet.aspx Farewell messages from people world-wide.

http://www.wellingtonzoo.com/content/animals/animal-stories.aspx Wellington Zoo website of animal stories.

For more books with resources please visit author Susanna Leonard Hill’s blog and find the tab for Picture Perfect Book

Posted in Children's literature, Picture Book Review, Reading Aloud | Tagged Happy Feet | 42 Comments

Join me in an Interview with Miranda Sibo Paul

Posted on 06/02/2012 by Diane Tulloch

I am absolutely delighted to be interviewing Miranda Sibo Paul today. I first “met” Miranda after winning a random prize during the PiBoldMo Challenge headed by Tara Lazar. A beautiful multicultural book called “Tales from China” a story adaptation of World Favorite Fables by Steve Jackson and Miranda. I am so interested in multicultural themes I thought I would take this opportunity to garner from Miranda some interesting facts about what she does, and I thought you might like to join me.

Miranda Paul is a children’s writer and editor who loves a good cultural tale. Miranda is the author of more than 40 digital books for young children, including the I Like Books Series published by Grasshopper Apps and several titles for iStorybooks, the #1 Amazon-ranked free Android app for kids. Miranda is also the founder and moderator of Rate Your Story, a free critique rating site for writers. When she’s not working, she’s busy enjoying her roles as a mother and an international volunteer.

Me: I see you did an interview with Silvia Ramsey back in October last year in which you mentioned writing about folk tales takes a lot of time, patience and research, can you tell me how and where do you go to research or obtain your material from?

Miranda: Thanks for having me, Diane.

I’ve always loved folk tales, but when I was first contracted to retell a few folk tales I went back to the original, public domain versions of the stories I was to rewrite – and realized I had my work cut out for me. Have you read Andrew Lang’s version of The Three Little Pigs? Or some of the original Grimm’s tales? I discovered how much of each tale has been cut out and changed, and my challenge was to make sure that elements from copyrighted retellings since (i.e. Disney) weren’t influencing or finding their way into my original versions. Obviously, I also had the challenge of turning them into stories appropriate for children and within the guidelines of the publisher’s style and specified word count as these were work-for-hire publications.

With Tales from China: World Favorite Fables, the publisher approached me to do English Story Adaptation and Editing. An entire team of researchers and translators actually did a lot of the research, and I got to do a lot of the fun parts crafting the stories (not that research isn’t fun, but I don’t speak much Mandarin!).

With regard to my Gambian folk tales, my research is about as up close and personal as it gets–I used to teach in West Africa and have traveled back many times. There, I’ve worked with Gambian author Cornelius Gomez who works very diligently transcribing oral folk tales into English. I’ve also got very rare copies of three other Gambian folk tale collections–the only three that I have actually ever heard of. And, some of the stories exist only in speech still (but I’m working to get them on paper). They are very challenging to adapt because it’s a struggle to keep the culture authentic but still tailor the story to be something marketable that can reach audiences anywhere.

Me: I notice you have a number of stories adapted as digital books through Grasshopper apps.com .. a global focus, are you looking to focus on other countries besides China and South Africa?

Miranda: When GrasshopperApps hired me to write the I Like Books Series, it wasn’t necessarily a multicultural project, but I knew that the board books would have to appeal to kids around the world – that was clear in my editorial instructions. I didn’t have anything to do with the photographs, but I think that the photographers did a great job reflecting a global focus by including diverse children and families to accompany the poetic text.

The reviews and feedback on these apps are really encouraging, too. It’s always great to hear good things about your books, but a few comments from special education teachers about how valuable these books have been as they teach autistic students really touched me.

Me: How important is it when writing folk tales or stories from other cultures that place names and characters are originate from history?

Miranda: I think it depends entirely on what you’re trying to accomplish with the folk tales. For my Gambian folk tales, which are the first children’s adaptations of the tales for an American audience, it was extremely important to keep the names and places authentic in order for the books to also be a window into another culture.

Even animal sounds can be a fun way to show kids cultural differences in language. In Chameleon and the Hare, for example, his bones don’t say “cre-e-e-e-ek,” as they would if it were a truly American story. Instead, we kept the original sound Gambians use when they tell the story: “See-kee-koo! Wee-kee-Koo! Nee-Kee-Koo!” We only adjusted the spelling so kids could easily know how to pronounce the sounds.

Me: Is it important do you think to have such books printed in both english and in the culture/country it originates from?

Miranda: In Tales from China, the book is entirely bilingual. For the Gambian folk tales, we are working on that. There are many Gambians who don’t know the stories of their Grandparents, for example. Getting them published in the vernacular would be great.

Me: How does writing folk tales or stories from other cultures differ from other genre? Are there problems in getting published?

Writing folk tales is different from, say, writing general fiction picture books in that you don’t have free reign to do whatever you’d like. There’s a story there, and only so much you can change – unless you’re writing a fractured fairy tale or a parody. Even then, however, you’re typically working within some guidelines, and if the tale is cultural, you’ve got research to do.

If you pick up a Children’s Market book, you’ll probably see a number of houses that say “No folk tales,” etc. They must get a ton of submissions. I haven’t tried subbing any folk tale retellings to traditional publishers, so I can’t say. I was fortunate enough to get my contracts through digital publishers who hired me to do the work based upon writing samples and my experience.

Me: What are you in the process of writing now? Will it be a stand alone book or one of many such as “Tales from China?” what else are you planning on in the near future?

Miranda: I’ve written several picture books (some fractured fairy/folk tales, but mostly not). Many of them are in the final stages of polishing and two of them just won me the SCBWI 2012 Mentorship in Wisconsin. Besides getting those submission-ready, I’ve also got a contract for several more stories to be released in 2012 and 2012 with iStorybooks.

And if that weren’t enough? I’m also searching for agents and have set a deadline to complete the first draft of my novel by the end of March.

Me: What advice do you have for me as I am also interested in writing stories with a cultural theme?

Miranda: I would start by writing stories within the cultures you’re most familiar. Or, team up with a writer or someone who has lived where you plan to set your story or can speak the language. These are the top tips I have in addition to research, research, research. There’s also an upcoming Highlights Foundation Workshop on “Creating an Authentic Cultural Voice.” Details are posted at the Highlights Foundation site.

Me: Can you explain to me what an “Apps Around the world” is, or should I say, was, I noticed it was held back in early December. The theme sounds very interesting?

Miranda: In my city, there is a group of parents who meet once a month or more and participate in cultural programming for our kids – it’s called Toddlers for Diversity. I hosted the December program, and the kids played with iPhones, iPads, and tablets as I downloaded and recommended some top apps centered around children & culture. It was fun!

Me: I know you have some wonderful writing tips for those of us who are eager to get published can you share a couple with us?

Miranda: I wish I had all the answers to getting published – let me know if you find them, OK?

Perhaps you’ve already learned the biggest one, Diane – being patient. I am a volunteer judge and the founder of Rate Your Story, and what always strikes me is how many manuscripts get sent in that are nowhere near ready for submission (anyone heard of spell check?). I also work as a freelance editor for many clients who plan to self-publish, and they’re always in such a hurry to get their work released. I once had a client who said none of the main characters (animals) could talk because he wanted it to be just like his favorite movie, Lady and the Tramp, where no animals talked. I promptly pulled out both movie and the book version from one of my five chock-full bookshelves and showed him how they talked…which brings me to my second piece of advice. Read books in the genre you’re writing. Lots!

I’ve been writing for a long time, and my submission tracker spreadsheet is still only one page long. For some, it might be a quantity thing, but for me, it’s a quality thing. Writing children’s books and being a mother have been the two biggest lessons in patience I’ve ever had – because honestly, I consider myself naturally impatient.

Me: I love your comment I came across on your blog, “if you’re a writer (and I suspect you are) cut yourself off and go write after 30 minutes, ok” With a young family and busy life style you must keep to a writing schedule…yes?

Miranda: Yes and no. I work on deadlines rather than a set schedule. Since I write for a couple of magazines and have several clients for whom I write and edit, it’s very important for me to keep track of what’s due when. Every day, whatever is due the soonest gets top priority. Last year, I began including my own deadlines on the calendar too, because they were getting pushed aside. I’ve taken a little less freelancing work this year to accommodate the laboring quest to get some picture books traditionally published in print, and I’ve set many deadlines regarding those (including writing 12 new ones as part of Julie Hedlund’s 12 x 12 in ’12 challenge). I’ve also learned to post my calendar in the house where everyone can see (i.e. hubby) so that they all realize mom has a real job 🙂

Me: Now I have been doing some snooping and found you are a mash potato lover like me. I think we should get together for an eating competition…. I just looooove mashed potatoes… plain,with melted cheese, ham, onion, in fact potatoes done anyway I love. You game?….lol.

Miranda: With cheese – you’re on, Diane! – but not for the ham. I actually don’t eat pork, beef, or any other red meat (and where I live, in Wisconsin, people think I’m some sort of alien because the staple food here is bratwurst).

And can we have the contest at your house? I’ve always wanted to travel there.

Me: Sure Miranda, would love to have you here. Thank you so much for taking the time to answer my questions and I am hoping that by interviewing you on my blog my readers will learn some interesting things I have discovered about you and your blog. Love your weekly tips and culture page.

If you wish to learn more about Miranda her links are below:-
http://www.MirandaPaul.com (website)
http://mirandapaulbooks.blogspot.com (blog)
http://RateYourStory.blogspot.com (Rate Your Story)
Twitter @Miranda_Paul

Now for the Review of “Tales from China” world Favourite Fables

Tales Edited & Adapted By: Steven Jackson, Miranda Sibo Paul
Publisher: Mankind Mind, LLC

Publication Date: June 17, 2011

Category: Folk Tales, Ages 4-12

http://search.barnesandnoble.com/Tales-from-China/Hui-Cui/e/9780615447537

Written in both Madarin and English and beautifully illustrated by William Guo, this is a fun book, which one would return to many times. A cumulation of 15 stories, it has an educational flavour with snippets of cultural lifestyle, foods, festivals and much more. A Message follows each story, a moral which allows discussion, and thought for both young and old. My favorites … Monkey Saves the Moon, Fortune for a Donkey and A Deer of Nine Colors are some of the sweetest stories,…. but then again they all are.

I hope you all enjoyed this post with the lovely Miranda and review, I hope in the near future I may have Miranda back to talk about her other ventures in “Rate your Story” and “Libraries for Gambia”.

Thankyou for stopping by.