Book Review: The Groundworld Heroes, Book One

Have you wondered when I’m going to post another book review? Well, here’s the newest one, posted on Jennifer Hallmark’s blog.

It’s the first of the new middle-grade series, The Groundworld Heroes, written by Adrian So.

I also listed links to order a copy.

Just Graduated from High School? -The Author Conservatory

Hi, all.

Did your teen just graduate from high school, or will in 2025? Do they want to pursue the field of writing but don’t want to be a starving artist?

Check out the writing program The Author Conservatory, where students will learn from writers like Brett Harris (coauthor of Do Hard Things), Tricia Goyer (author and coauthor of many fiction and nonfiction books), and Kara Swanson (author of Dust, Shadow, and Ignite). It’s an online program where they master the craft of writing and pitching novels as well as the skill of starting their own writing business.

If this sounds like a dream come true, check out the link below. Just remember that a student is expected to work 15-20 hours per week, so make sure your teen is committed to the time involved.

Hot Dog by Mark Sperring (Children’s Book)

Hi, all.

Here’s a picture book to watch before summer vacation ends. It’s Hot Dog by Mark Sperring, illustrated by Sophie Corrigan. Imagine a hot dog turning into a loveable pet as Storytime Playtime reads us this story.

I’m Back! Plus More Ideas for Your Reading List

Hi, all.

I’m officially back to my little blog. I hope you are all doing well. My experience with Realm Makers’ virtual conference was fantastic, and I pitched my Galdur Snow Dog book to a couple of publishers. I’ll let you know how it turns out.

But regardless of what happens, I gained great knowledge from speakers like Nadine Brandes, Steve Laube, Donald Maas, and Rowena Kuo, and I even had virtual one-on-one times with mentors. So, I would definitely recommend this conference to you writers out there. It has classes for anyone, from beginning writers to seasoned ones in the publishing business.

In the meantime, here are more ideas to add to your reading list, courtesy of Lou Allen, aka Christian Faith and Fiction.

It Isn’t Goodbye…It’s a Hiatus

Hiya.

To all of you who have been reading and even subscribing to my blog, I want to say a big thank you. This blog has been a part of my growing in my professional writing.

Speaking of professional writing, I’m pitching my middle grade novel, The Galdur Snow Dog, to a couple of publishers in July, and I need to write proposals that will be sure to please them. I’m also attending Realm Makers’ virtual conference, writing book reviews, and continuing to serve members of my critique group. Since I’m sure to be swamped during this coming month, I’m taking a hiatus from blogging.

But starting on the first Saturday of August, I’ll be back. To borrow the words from John Q, it isn’t goodbye, it’s see you later.

Summer Reading…Are You In?

Need to be motivated to read more during the summer, especially if you want your kids to expand their imagination, thinking, and curiosity about the world? How about taking on a summer reading challenge? Hey, even grown-ups can participate and explore their choice of books.

There’s probably a summer reading program at your local library, so check it out. If you need inspiration on what books to pick out, Lou Allen of Christian Faith and Fiction has a list of prompts where you can select beach-themed books. Keep reading.

To All the Father Figures Out There

If you’re a dad, grandpa, teacher, or mentor to someone who doesn’t have a father around, Happy Father’s Day!

Pick a tie, from me to you.

And if you don’t have a father present in your life, remember that if you have accepted Jesus as your forever friend, you have His Father as your Father.

“The Spirit you received does not make you slaves, so that you live in fear again; rather, the Spirit you received brought about your adoption to sonship. And by him we cry, ‘Abba, Father.'” – Romans 8:15, New International Version

Amen and amen.

Suspense and Mysteries for Teens

Does your teen prefer mysteries and suspense over fantasy and historical fiction? Check out JPC Allen’s Rae Riley mystery series.

M Liz Boyle talked with Allen about her books, and from their conversation, you will discover how Allen researched for her stories and learned about the different jobs people have in the field of crime.

Here’s the interview.

Fantastical Pup Toys

Hi, all. I hope you are doing well.

My work-in-progress, The Galdur Snow Dog, is awaiting a publisher. I’m currently giving traditional publishing a shot, though I have self-publishing as a Plan B option in case a traditional publisher doesn’t come around.

If you’ve been following my blog, you may have heard that The Galdur Snow Dog is a middle grade novel about malamute-like dogs with amazing powers. They race across water, sneeze colors into snow, and smell of vanilla peppermint. Not to mention that some are colored blue-and-silver while others are red-and-glittery white.

Speaking of dogs with superpowers, how about puppies that grant wishes? The toys in this commercial are Wish Me Pets. How cute are these? I wish I were a kid and have one of these.

But back in my childhood during the ’90s, I did have a purple Secret Keepins Pup, a special canine with a treasure chest built in its tummy. Sounds weird, huh?

Did you have any toy dogs that would be perfect characters for fantasy and fairy tale stories? Comment below and tell me about it.