Ideas on Improving Your Story, With Jessi L. Roberts

What do you think makes a great book? Do you think you need to improve your story some?

Science fiction author Jessi L. Roberts lists traits of well-written books on her blog. I re-blogged it here. Enjoy!

Note: This is one person’s opinion, of course. I personally would forgive a long prologue if the world and characters intrigue me enough. I do think, though, that the main character/s in the prologue must have morals and be relatable in order to be likable and sympathetic.

God’s Fireflies

Can God answer prayer in a way that seems magical?

Here’s a short story by Kathleen Mincer that shows something like that. Actually, this tale is based on the true story of a young woman who did mission work in Australia.

Take a look at this beautiful illustration by Kevin Keele.

Read more to watch God using fireflies to lead a missionary team out of a rainforest.

Calling for Book Reviewers!

Do you love reading fantasy and sci-fi chapter books geared toward ages 8 to 12?

Jennifer Hallmark, my partner-in-crime in reviewing books, is looking for more book reviewers for her blog “Off the Beaten Track.” She’s interested in fantasy and sci-fi readers who’ll review, from a Christian point-of-view, middle grade novels. These readers are only to review books they enjoy, not books they want to trash.

To get acquainted with the blog and see how to review from a Christian perspective, click on the link below. As you keep browsing, you’ll see reviews written by (ahem) me.

If this sounds like an opportunity you don’t want to miss, you may contact Jennifer through her Contact page.

Book Review: Lavanauts

Here’s a review I wrote on Amy Shook’s book Lavanauts: Hot Lava Pirates and Sharks. Kindergarteners through second graders will love going on this lava-faring adventure.

The review is featured on Jennifer Hallmark’s blog. Enjoy!

Dachshunds, Dachshunds

Want to be bombarded by dachshunds? You can read a book called Dozens of Dachshunds by Stephanie Calmenson. It’s a counting book that’s filled with all the colors and furry textures of these long-bodied clowns.

Here’s a video of the book read by the author.

Bold and Brave by K.A. Cummins

A new book is releasing August 31! This one is about a girl with autism who dreams of singing a solo. She gets scared, and readers will be waiting to see if she overcomes her fear.

A blog tour has just started for the book, and you can read reviews and more details of the story on the blogs listed on the following link. You can also enter a giveaway and have the chance to win a $50 Amazon gift card and your own copy of the book.

Biblical Books for Young Kids

Are you looking for books that expose young ones to biblical truth (especially in this day and age where relativism and ungodliness are running rampant)? If there’s a publisher that makes such books, wouldn’t it be worth supporting them financially?

Wolfbane Books is such publisher, and the following pictures show the books they publish.

They have a Kickstarter campaign. Check out the following link and watch their special trailer. Pledge as much as you want; in return, they’ll reward you with gifts like books, note cards, wall decorations, t-shirts, and more.

Book Review by K.A. Cummins – Drive-Thru Miracle

Today, I’m sharing a review of a book that tackles tough situations like bullying, disability, and questions about prayer. It’s the book Drive-Thru Miracle by Dana Edwards, and it’s geared toward middle grades. I haven’t read the book, but author K.A. Cummins wrote an excellent review on this and convinces me that this is an emotional and engaging story with quirkiness to lighten the mood.

Winter Puppy Books

Wish you can escape the heat for a little bit?

How about some wintry adventures with a husky puppy named Birki? Here are videos of The Brave Little Puppy and The Puppy’s Wish, both read by kids. These books for young children were written by Lori Evert, with photographs by Per Breiehagen. Enjoy the cuteness!