Texas Children's Author Melissa M. Williams

THE 4th ANNUAL CREATIVE WRITING & ILLUSTRATION SUMMER CAMP for KIDS

noreply@blogger.com (Melissa M. Williams) — Tue, 01 May 2012 17:27:00 +0000

Hosted by the Author of the Iggy the Iguana and Turtle Town Chapter Book Series

MELISSA M. WILLIAMS

With guest Illustrator RYAN SHAW

5 Day Creative Writing and Illustration Workshop

Students will learn how to think outside the box and create unique characters with interesting stories. The author, Melissa Williams, will discuss the way she used her own experiences with her pets to create the fictional characters in Iggy the Iguana and Turtle Town series while teaching the use of archetypes, conflict resolution, and original storyline development tactics. Students will learn how to bring their own ideas to life through words and illustrations as professional illustrator, Ryan Shaw, explains the process of connecting to the author’s characters with art. During the week, the students will have the opportunity to use their newly learned skills to come up with their own character and develop a unique short story that will be eligible for publication in the “I Write Short Stories by Kids for Kids” Contest.

SCHEDULE AND INFORMATION:

June 11^th to 15^th 2012 (2^nd- 4^th grade)

Location: Hobby Lobby, 16011 FM 529 Rd, Houston, TX 77095

Time: 9:00am to 12:30pm

Contact Melissa Williams for Registration

June 18^th to 21^st (11-14 yrs)

Location: Alvin Main Campus, 3110 Mustang Road, Alvin

Time: 1:00pm-5:00pm

Contact Rhonda Myers for Registration

June 25^th to 28^th (11-14 yrs.)

ACC Pearland Center, 2319 Grand Blvd, Pearland

Time: 1:00pm-5:00pm

Contact Rhonda Myers for Registration

July 9^th to 12^th (7-10 yrs.)

ACC Pearland Center, 2319 Grand Blvd, Pearland

Time: 1:00pm-5:00pm

Contact Rhonda Myers for Registration

July 16^th to 19^th (7-10 yrs.)

Location: Alvin Main Campus, 3110 Mustang Road, Alvin

Time: 1:00pm-5:00pm

Contact Rhonda Myers for Registration

July 30^th to August 3^rd 2012 (5^th-8^thgrade)

Location: Hobby Lobby, 16011 FM 529 Rd, Houston, TX 77095

Time: 9:00am to 12:30pm

Contact Melissa Williams for Registration

Books Soon Available At Your Local HEB

noreply@blogger.com (Melissa M. Williams) — Mon, 16 Apr 2012 19:23:00 +0000

The Iggy the Iguana and Turtle Town book series will be available at your local HEB store. We have partnered with the Read To Lead Foundation to provide more convenience in shopping for your favorite books. Author, Melissa M. Williams will also be doing book signings at some local HEB stores this summer, so stay tuned for upcoming details including locations and times.

February News!

noreply@blogger.com (Melissa M. Williams) — Tue, 07 Feb 2012 17:08:00 +0000

Happy Valentines Day!

She's finally here!

Introducing

the

Molly Doll

Just in time for Valentines Day ... Molly the Iguana has arrived to make the hearts of little girls dance!

To celebrate Molly's arrival to the shelf, we are offering FREE Shipping on all Molly Doll orders placed within the next 24 hours, so hurry! CLICK HERE to order Molly.

Creative Writing Workshops

for Kids!

Presented by Children's Author
Melissa M. Williams

Saturday March 3rd 2012

How to Create Unique Characters and a Stand Out Storyline

Students will learn specific creative writing and character development techniques used in their favorite books, movies and stories, including:

· Plot structuring for a stand out storyline

· Transitioning between story acts

· Archetype roles, critical to the development of fictional characters

· Important aspects of the conflict, climax, & character change

· Theme development, utilization of the senses, emotion & imagery

· How to connect to your audience.

(Seating is limited, register NOW!)

*** Lunch will be Provided ****

Price per Workshop: $50

Saturday, March 3rd 10:00am-3:00pm

Grade Level: 4th through 6th

Location: Hobby Lobby Classroom

16011 FM 529 Houston, TX 77095

For registration
Contact Melissa

READ3Zero's

Publishing Contest
I Write Short Stories by Kids
for Kids Vol. 3

This is a great opportunity for children who have dreamed of seeing their own story or artwork professionally published in a book. First round short story and book cover design submissions will be accepted during the months of December 2011-March 2012. Once the Finalists are announced, they will have until May 1st 2012 to resubmit their edited revisions and final copy of their short story and/or artwork for the book cover. Grand Prize Winners will be announced by September 1st 2012 on the Read3Zero Website and published in the 2012 Anthology. All winners will receive one complimentary copy of the anthology.

Calling All Authors and Artists!

This year we have 3 Categories for Entry:

Short Stories, Poems and Cover Design (Art)

Visit www.Read3Zero.com to download the entry forms.

Everything's about to change for
Iggy the Iguana!

Crazy Days of
5th Grade
The 3rd book in the
Iggy Series...

COMING THIS APRIL 2012!

Contest for 5th Graders

5th graders,
Have you ever thought about being a book reviewer? LongTale Publishing is looking for a 5th grade student to review the brand new Iggy Book, Crazy Days of 5th Grade and tell us what you think. The winner will be allowed to read the Iggy manuscript before it's published and see their book review on the back of the book!

Contest Rules:

Read one of your FAVORITE Chapter Books. Type one paragraph (no more than 4 sentences) telling us why you love the book. Please include your name, age, and title of the book at the top of the paragraph and email it to: Melissa

Please Title your Email:
5th Grade Book Review Contest

All emails must be received by March 1st.

The winner will be notified by March 8th, and they will be the first person to read Iggy's Crazy Days of 5th Grade!!!

ATTENTION 5th GRADE TEACHERS!

We would like to hear from you too! If you are interested in being a part of Iggy's 5th grade review, please contact: Melissa

The Spring 2012 Book Tour Season is Here!

School Presentations are available for K-8th grade
Book Now and Receive a Set of Iggy Books for your library.

This season your school may also book 3 hour creative writing workshops.

Visit the booking section at www.MelissaMWilliamsAuthor.com

The Students at Heath Elementary are AWESOME!

noreply@blogger.com (Melissa M. Williams) — Tue, 24 Jan 2012 15:50:00 +0000

I want to give a big thank you to all of the students at Heath Elementary for being such a wonderful audience and kicking off the 2012 Book Tour! One of the most important things to me as an author is my AUDIENCE ... the readers! It's important that all of us as writers consider the audience and always put ourselves in their shoes. When we do this ... being creative offers a wonderful challenge to us all, and it helps our editing techniques reach a whole new level.

REMEMBER one of the best ways to edit is to have your friend read your work back to you. This will help you remove yourself and hear what it sounds like to be in the shoes of your reader!

Once of my favorite parts of the day was getting to hear from all of you and answer some really great questions! I hope that each of you continue to write stories after talking about the many ways to find inspiration for stories and develop characters. One of the easiest ways to exercise your creative brain is to find one picture and make up a story ... just like we all did with this little guy!

When developing a story ... start with the main character and get to know him/her as best as you can. It will help you later develop a conflict and resolution revolve around your characters' fears, desires and growth while he/she changes in your story. After developing your main character, do the same for your villain, tricksters, mentor and shapeshifter too! (Check out the writings of Christopher Vogler to learn even more about these character/archetype concepts.)

Never stop writing! You will find there is something to write about every day of your life if you start the habit today.

Good luck and happy writing! I can't wait to get some of your stories for the I Write Short Stories by Kids for Kids Contest!

Now here's the fun part! If you still have questions for me that didn't get answered, please leave your questions in the comment section below, and I will answer them for you.

Melissa

The Molly Doll is HERE!!!!

noreply@blogger.com (Melissa M. Williams) — Sat, 21 Jan 2012 19:15:00 +0000

Just in time for Valentines Day ... Molly the Iguana has arrived to make the hearts of little girls dance!

To celebrate Molly's arrival to the shelf, we are offering FREE Shipping on all Molly Dolls until February 8th ... just in time to make the perfect Valentines Day gift for anyone! Use the paypal link below to receive free shipping on your order.

Creative Writing Workshops at Hidden Hollow Elementary

noreply@blogger.com (Melissa M. Williams) — Fri, 30 Sep 2011 14:32:00 +0000

Hidden Hollow Students: You ALL are AWESOME! During my school visit at Hidden Hollow in Kingwood, TX, I spent the day teaching creative writing and character development techniques to the 3rd through 5th graders in separate 1 hour sessions. The kids blew me away with their ideas and eagerness to write. I'm looking forward to getting everyone's stories for the Read3Zero Contest. The new deadlines for the 2012 contest will be up soon!

Here are some of my favorite lessons from the day! I encourage all of my Hidden Hollow Students to post your favorite part of the day in the comment section too.

WHAT IS A STORY? A Character who has a Problem and what that character does about it!

THE 3 IMPORTANT THINGS TO INCLUDE IN THE BEGINNING OF A STORY.

The Main Character
The Character's Problem
The Setting

WHAT IS THE JOB OF OUR SECONDARY CHARACTERS? To HELP out the Hero (Main Character) ... yes, even the Villain helps the main character grow and change.

Last but not least ... ONCE WE REACH THE CLIMAX OF THE STORY, WHAT DO WE KNOW IS NEXT?

THE END

A big thank you goes out to Mrs. Cleverly for organizing this years school visit! I had such a nice time working with you and the teachers. Also a big thank you goes out to Gabriella for her awesome book review!

"I liked Iggy the Iguana because I can relate to him about all of the things that happened to me on my first day of school at a new school. I felt everything Iggy did and lots of my friends have the personality of all of the Iggy characters!!! I think Iggy the Iguana should be a Everybody book NOT a chapter book!" -Gabriella

Blessings,

Melissa and Iggy and Snap Shell!

Children's Book Writing and Insight Behind the Publishing Industry

noreply@blogger.com (Melissa M. Williams) — Mon, 05 Sep 2011 22:20:00 +0000

Workshop for Adults

Presented by Children's Author and
Owner of LongTale Publishing
Melissa M. Williams

HAVE YOU ALWAYS WANTED TO UNCOVER THE MYSTERY BEHIND THE WRITING AND PUBLISHING INDUSTRY? DON'T MISS THIS SATURDAY WORKSHOP.

COME WITH YOUR QUESTIONS!

·Insight behind the making of Children's Books

·What to know before you start writing

·Ways to Define and Reach your Audience

·Creative Writing Tips for Storyline Development

·Developing Characters that kids can relate to

·How writers turn their passion into a career

·Traditional vs. Non-Traditional Publishing

·Do Author's really need agents?

·It's more than just writing

·How to be in the Book Business

·Marketing Tips and Must Knows!

·Author School Visits

·MUST HAVE Resources

·AND MUCH MORE

SATURDAY SEPTEMBER 17TH, 2011

11:00am-4:00pm

Age Level: 17 years to Adult

Pre-Registration Rate: $40

Cost at Door: $ 50

Location: Hobby Lobby Classroom

16011 FM 529 Rd, Houston, TX 77095

Seating Limited. Email for Registration Form.

Melissa@LongTalepublishing.com

Instructor's Bio:

Melissa Williams is the author to the Iggy the Iguana series and the Turtle Town series for kids, the owner of LongTale Publishing, and founded the Literacy Foundation--READ3Zero. Melissa has been writing stories since the age of eight years old. Many of her stories were inspired by real-life experiences with childhood pets she owned while growing up in Houston, Texas. Melissa's first series came out in 2008 after completing her Master's degree in professional counseling. Melissa continues to connect to her young readers by visiting schools and speaking to students about her journey while giving hands on insight into the writing and publishing process. Melissa also hosts writing workshops, summer camps, and book clubs for her readers through out the year.

Melissa has been a guest and presenter at various literacy, publisher and school organization events and featured on local Texas Stations:

Keynote speaker at the 2010 & 2011 Texas PTA Leadership Conference, Austin, TX
Guest Speaker at the PBS Ch. 8 Houston Kids Go Writing Awards Ceremony, Houston, TX
Guest Speaker at the Independent Book Publishers Associations Conference, New York
Guest Speaker at the Barnes and Noble's Educator's Appreciation Brunch in Houston, TX
Interview on Houston, TX Channel 2 News
Guest interview on CNN 650 Radio, Houston, TX
Guest interview on KPVU 91.3 FM Public Radio, College Station, TX
Guest at the Texas Book Festival, Austin, TX
Guest to the Houston R.E.A.D. Festival, Houston, TX
Guest to the Conroe, Texas Junior League Literacy Event
Guest author at the Kemah Kids Festival, Kemah, TX
Guest author at the Texas Library Association Annual Conference
Guest author at the John Cooper Event, Woodlands, TX
Guest Speaker at the Denton, Texas' 2009 Literacy Conference

Ten Thousand Words In

noreply@blogger.com (Melissa M. Williams) — Tue, 26 Jul 2011 14:23:00 +0000

One of my favorite parts about writing books is the concept of start and finish. I love getting started, and finishing has its ultimate perks, naturally.

So, the third book in the Iggy series is underway with a first draft goal date of September 1st. After releasing the first book in Turtle Town, it has been refreshing to get back to those original characters and tie in old with the new. Summer has always been my writing time, and this summer has been no different, even though I got a late start. There is so much excitement that revolves around this job, yet at the end of the day, I forget how much I truly love to write. Just write. The summertime never fails to remind me. Yes, I love the research and experiences the stories at times force me to do, but still raw creativity is an ultimate euphoria. My hope is that children get back to the basics of creativity. It's so much better than the standardized and mechanical off and on switches of today's society. The word "bored" should be wiped from childhood ... really!

The goal for the next book is to lightheartedly play around the stigmas of school and childhood in an all accepting way. Diversity can come into play in so many fashions in children's writing, and often you see the author's veiw point and beliefs through character interaction or narrator talk. I laughed to myself when reading a section of Rick Riordan's 4th installment in the Percy Jackson Series when he used a Sphinx character who was obsessed with standardized tests, and the young female character in the book, Annabeth, asked why the questions were so standardized when they were supposed to be challenging riddles, not memorization type questions. The young character argued that it was insulting she didn't get to use her brain anymore, and the Sphinx argues she needs her grading machine to grade for her. Hmmm. Wonder where that idea came from? Reality. Let's just say, Iggy and characters will be going through something that parallels this subject matter.

Until next time! I wish you all happy writing this summer!

Melissa

Summer Fun!

noreply@blogger.com (Melissa M. Williams) — Fri, 08 Jul 2011 02:18:00 +0000

This Summer has been a BLAST with all of the exciting events that have taken place! The school year ended with another amazing California Book Tour! Thank you to all of the schools in San Diego and Sacramento for an exciting time!

As always my schools went above and beyond to make me feel welcome and at home in California!

A big thank you goes out to Sub Sea Systems for being such a huge support to the Turtle Town Series! It was such a treat to not only spend one of my school visits in Sacramento with Hannah Mayfield from Sub Sea Systems (The Home to the Trekker Character) but also with my graphic designer Monica Thomas!

I want to thank all of my June summer camp kids for working so hard and sharing your creative spirit with me and Ryan Shaw our illustrator.

I was so impressed with your ideas as we developed not only a stand out main character, but multiple other characters to help our hero move along in his journey.

I would also like to thank everyone who came out to the Inner Puka Book Release Party at Barnes and Noble. We had such an excellent time getting to meet the readers and see many familiar faces!

Many visitors entered our hourly drawings and contests!

One of my favorite parts of the day was the Character Reading with my Turtle Town Character Development group!!!

Thank you to everyone who made this day so special for me. Nothing is more inspiring than getting to hang out with your readers for a day!

The Texas PTA Annual Summer Leadership Conference

noreply@blogger.com (Melissa M. Williams) — Wed, 06 Jul 2011 01:31:00 +0000

Parents and Teachers!
It's that time of year again! The Texas PTA will be holding the annual Summer Leadership Conference at the Austin Convention Center this weekend. I'm honored to be a part of this organization's schedule again this year. I invite all of you to join me on Saturday July 9th from 4:00pm to 5:30pm in Room 12-B for our speaking topic:

Inspiring a Child’s Love of Literacy
Venture into the world of creativity by expanding your
reading and writing inspiration kit, while encouraging
a child’s self-esteem through a love for literacy, creativity
and learning. Discover opportunities for children
to become published authors by the READ3Zero
Literacy Foundation for Kids.

Books will be available at the book store, including the newly released Turtle Town: The Inner Puka chapter book! I will be at the book store on Friday evening from 6pm to 8pm for a signing.

I hope to see all of you there!

Melissa

The Official Turtle Town Book Release Party is THIS SATURDAY!

noreply@blogger.com (Melissa M. Williams) — Thu, 23 Jun 2011 21:25:00 +0000

The NEW Turtle Town Series:

The Inner Puka

by Melissa M. Williams

Come to Barnes and Noble-Copperfield THIS Saturday June 25th as we celebrate the Release of THE INNER PUKA all Day from 11am-3pm!

7026 Hwy 6 North
Houston, TX 77095
(281) 861-6842

What will you get if you visit Children's Author Melissa M. Williams at Barnes and Noble???

A Free Turtle Town Poster
Turtle Town Bookmarks
Turtle Town Stickers
Enter to win a Stuffed Snap Shell
Enter to win a spot in Melissa's Creative Writing Summer Camp
Enter the Turtle Town Coloring and Illustration Contest: Winner's drawing will be posted on the Turtle Town Website www.TurtleTownBooks.com
AND Get your copy of The Inner Puka Autographed by the Author

The Inner Puka is available for purchae online at Amazon.com, BarnesandNoble.com, and TurtleTownBooks.com

Release date: June 25, 2011

The first book in the Turtle Town Series, The Inner Puka, is about Snap Shell, a box-shell turtle from Texas, who must find his place among a society of surfing sea turtles along California's southern coast.

Snap Shell, the box shell turtle we all loved from the Iggy the Iguana series, has waited his whole life to follow his dream of becoming a real surfer. When his father is transferred to California, Snap gets the chance to embrace the much sought after waves of the West Coast. He faces many challenges, due to his physical differences from the other sea turtles. Good thing he brought his trusty blue flippers! On Snap's journey of becoming the only surfing box shell on the beach, he discovers long hidden secrets that will have the power to either destroy him or truly help him find the inner puka of his soul.

Genre - Juvenile Fiction

ISBN: 978-0-9818054-6-7

Page Count: 240

List Price: $12.99

Reading Level: 8-12

Available at: Ingram

AND BARNES AND NOBLE NOW!

The Making of a New Children's Series "The Arrival"

noreply@blogger.com (Melissa M. Williams) — Fri, 13 May 2011 21:40:00 +0000

It's the scariest and most exciting time for any author ... The Day You Open Up Your First Box of New Books! You pray that everything turned out alright at the printer. Well, we are happy to say that Turtle Town: The Inner Puka couldn't look better ... thanks to the design team at TLC Graphics. I'm so excited to share this new series! Turtle Town is NOW available to order!

CLICK HERE TO ORDER

The Making of a New Children's Series "Going to Print"

noreply@blogger.com (Melissa M. Williams) — Mon, 18 Apr 2011 03:32:00 +0000

It's the letting go ... the follow through ... the completion of a brain child that is one of the most satisfying and trivial experiences for an author. When you are involved in all aspects of a book project from the start of a mere idea to building a creation with a team, you literally witness the first artistic stage of gestation to the release of your brain child off to college.

As you wait for your book to come off the printer and make a place for itself in the world, a few things start to happen. You plan for its successful future while at the same time you become troubled to the thought that you are not raising, producing and nurturing a project. After two full years of parenting it, it stands alone. So, naturally the circle of life continues. You must create!

The first book in the Turtle Town Series called The Inner Puka is in production and will be making it's public appearance this May. I can't believe the time is finally here. The story, design and research have literally come full circle. As this book finds it's place on the shelf, I thank everyone who was involved in it's life ... and look forward to a new season of writing.


Cover Design by Monica of TLC Graphics and Illustrations by Kelley Stengele

THE 3rd ANNUAL CREATIVE WRITING & ILLUSTRATION SUMMER CAMP for KIDS

noreply@blogger.com (Melissa M. Williams) — Fri, 08 Apr 2011 16:58:00 +0000

Hosted by the Author of the Iggy the Iguana and Turtle Town Chapter Book Series

MELISSA M. WILLIAMS

With guest Illustrator RYAN SHAW

5 Day Creative Writing and Illustration Workshop

The 5 Day Workshop Includes:
-Creative Writing Instruction with a published author and illustrator
-Insight into the publishing process from a professional publisher
-Short Story Bound Project and take home curriculum packet
-Daily Prizes and a Camp T-shirt
-Daily Lunch and Awards Celebration

SCHEDULE AND INFORMATION:

Location: Hobby Lobby, 16011 FM 529 Rd, Houston, TX 77095

June 20^th to 24^th 2011 (5^th to 8^th graders)

July 11^1h to 15^th 2011 (2^nd-4^th graders)

Time: 9:30am to 1:00pm

Price: $300 Hurry, only 12 spots available!!!!

Encourage your child’s love for Literacy, Creativity, & Learning this summer!

Email to Register

Or Download forms at Scribd

www.iggytheiguana.com

Creative Writing Workshop for Kids Saturday, March 26th

noreply@blogger.com (Melissa M. Williams) — Wed, 02 Mar 2011 23:02:00 +0000

Presented by

Melissa M. Williams, Children’s Author

How to Create Unique Characters and a Stand Out Storyline

Students will learn specific creative writing and character development techniques used in their favorite books, movies and stories, including:

· Plot structuring for a stand out storyline

· Transitioning between story acts

· Archetype roles, critical to the development of fictional characters

· Important aspects of the conflict, climax, & character change

· Theme development, utilization of the senses, emotion & imagery

· How to connect to your audience.

Students will have the opportunity to use their newly learned skills to come up with their own character and develop a unique short story that will be eligible for publication in the “I Write Short Stories by Kids for Kids” Contest.

Email: Melissa or 713-724-6372

to register or to ask questions.

Spaces are limited

CLASS SCHEDULE

Select one of the 3 hour workshops - Price: $30

9:30am - 12:30pm

Grade Level: 2^nd 3^rd 4^th

- OR -

1:00pm - 4:00pm

Grade Level: 4^th 5^th 6^th

** (4^th grade may select either session)

Location: Allen Hilton Garden Inn 705 Central Expressway Allen, Texas, 75013

All materials will be furnished - a writing packet and folder will be provided for students to take home!

Check out the author’s websites:

www.iggytheiguana.com and www.MelissaMwilliamsAuthor.com

The Turtle Town Book Club

noreply@blogger.com (Melissa M. Williams) — Sat, 19 Feb 2011 20:06:00 +0000

with Children’s Author Melissa M. Williams

One Month this Summer!

Houston Area

· Reading Comprehension Skills

· Question/Discussion Time each week

· Behind the scenes California research discussions with the author

· Learn the components of symbolism and character development each week

ALL PARTICIPANTS receive the first book in the
TURTLE TOWN SERIES with Registration

EMAIL FOR DETAILS

The Making of a New Children's Series "The Who's and What's"

noreply@blogger.com (Melissa M. Williams) — Tue, 08 Feb 2011 02:11:00 +0000

Over time, as my publishing company has grown, LongTale Publishing has had the opportunity to work with many different people with all kinds of titles. I find in conversations, that so many people do not realize how many are involved in the process in order for a book to become a success. From authors, to publicists, to line editors, to website designers, and all the way to the connections you make with book store managers, there is never a dull moment to say the least.

I have been a part of many brainstorm groups, and the one problem is when many creative people get in a room, you get millions of ideas. Why is this a problem? Well with all of those wonderful ideas, you must have just as many plans and people to execute those visions. This is why everyone's job is so important, but at times you may see some jobs overlap. At least at LongTale Publishing they do.

Let's begin with all of the people who work under the publishing umbrella.

The Publisher: The head decision maker who has a direct relationship with all of the following people:

The Author: The Writer of the Story

Senior Editor: The lead person who reads and critiques the entire story, looking for holes in the storyline, a weak theme, character development, and overall correctness. The senior editor and author work hand in hand to make the story appropriate for the desired audience. The senior editor can also be credited for taking the next step to to push a book to become a best seller. The senior editor sits right under the publisher.

Line Editor: There are many different names for other kinds of editors and additional editors at a publishing house. Line Editors look for mistakes in the story's wording, punctuation, typos, inconsistency in word choice, etc. Sometimes the senior editor ends up doing all of the editing though.

The Illustrator: The Artist who draws pictures for the interior and cover of the book

The Graphic Designer: The artist who cuts, cleans, manipulates, creates, researches, adjusts, and finalizes all art work through a scanner and onto the computer using programs like Photoshop, Illustrator, and Indesign for books.

The Interior Designer and Copy Editor: These are the people who layout the entire interior of the book into the proper page arrangements that will later be sent to the printer. The Indesign program and others are specifically made for creating professional book layouts. The copy editor must make sure all of the words in the book are just right. They check for alignment and mistakes. Both of these job titles check for the pictures lining up with the story and create a consistent look inside the book.

Marketing and PR Relations: These individuals work as publicists, marketing managers, and public relations coordinators. They not only market the book on behalf of the publishing company, but they predict the market and targets. They put together a marketing plan with the publisher for the author's upcoming year. The publisher also works with this group in order to set up book signings and bookings for speaking events.

Other Relationships: Print houses, distribution channels for book stores, libraries, book fairs, and gift shops, CRM (Community Relationship Managers) of book stores, online retailers, education channels of teachers and librarians, school districts, superintendents, principals, product designers, etc.

Intellectual Properties Lawyer: This type of law is either necessary to research yourself or hire a specialized lawyer who can deal with trademarks, copyrights, registrations, business issues, tax advice, and so much more.

Accountants and CPA's: Are a must!

Assistants and Interns: All of the titles above can come with an assistant and/or intern. These two important jobs make life at the publishing house so much better! If you are interested in any of the above jobs, look for assistant and intern positions for the best experience the business can offer.

Agents, Reviewers, Readers, Kid Critique Groups, etc. Did I miss any? YES! But I'll stop there for now. I would like to add a special thank you to the group of individuals who have put so much time this past month into the Turtle Town project. Kelley Stengele, Illustrator, Bobby Ozuna, Senior Editor, Monica Thomas, Cover Graphics, Sharon Wyatt, Interior Designer and Copy Editor, and Michele Williams, Line Editor.

DON'T FORGET to register for the 2 Part Series: The Children's Writing and Publishing Industry Lecture this February 15th and 17th from 6pm to 9pm at the Lone Star College Library on Barker Cypress in Houston. Click Here for a registration form.

Now it's time for the fun part. I was able to meet with my illustrator, Kelley Stengele, while I was in New York last week, and I would like to make the official announcement .... DRUM ROLL ....

We will both start working on the Molly Picture Book Series for girls ages 4-6 this year! We are so excited to work together on a picture book! You know what that means ... the Molly Doll is next!

You can continue to give your thoughts about the Turtle Town Cover as we continue to build and change it with the team at TLC Graphics. Your ideas may just be used on the cover. Can you tell me what's different about these two covers? The first person to guess on the comment page will win a free Snap Shell Stuffed Animal!

See you next week when we break down the major changes in the editing process of Turtle Town.

The Making of a New Children's Series "Knowing the Industry"

noreply@blogger.com (Melissa M. Williams) — Tue, 01 Feb 2011 01:09:00 +0000

What a week! I've been in New York (during the storms) for the past 7 days for school visits and the SCBWI Conference. (The Society of Children's Book Writers and Illustrators) I have always been a big advocate for the conference and seminar experience, probably because I really love to learn! Direct information and teaching from top experts, authors, publishers, and industry people in what ever industry you are in is such a steal. You might as well get this insider information to keep you from wasting precious time and making unnecessary mistakes. I believe that we learn greatly and the most from our mistakes, however, there is no reason to make more mistakes than spending time being proactive to create success.

I would like to list some of the major things I took away from the conference, not from my notes, but off the top of my head. I'm a note taker, but I'm trying to reconnect my long term memory synapses.

1. YES, you need an agent. If you are submitting to one of the top dog publishers, like the Penguin Group, Harper Collins, Scholastic, etc. the chances of your work getting attention are as likely as a record label signing the next big singer. You basically need that middle man to get in the door and negotiate legal contracts. Think of the publishing industry like the music industry. Large Labels and Small Labels. Large Houses and Small Local Houses. Of course it is easier to get picked up by a smaller local house, but much of your success will solely depend on your marketing experience and energy to get out there. To find the right agent, check out the acknowledgment page in the back of books like your own. Authors usually thank their agents, and that is the first place to go to start researching agents. You can also go to online market sites for agents as well.

2. GET OFF the Facebook and Twitter obsessed wagon. If you are a writer, the best thing you can do for yourself is to write. Yes, online marketing is 100% necessary, but people who market on their computers all day are creating the habit of NOT perfecting their craft, getting in front of people, having more experiences, and learning what else works. Nothing is more memorable than "in person." You will never create the true word of mouth phenomenon if you aren't creating "real relationships." There is a reason why I hate taking online classes and much rather see the professor and be around others. I get more and remember the experience.Yes, time is everything, but so is choice.

3. VOICE is the number one thing editors look for when signing publishing contracts. Develop a unique and original voice through your flow of word choice and character building. Voice takes practice and a lot of re-writes.

4. There is a right and wrong way to do humor. Intentional humor doesn't work. Humor is used to help bring a light feel to a usually awkward or hard situation. Humor and laughter makes a book worth reading.

5. Have a HOOK! You should be able to sell your story idea in 20 seconds. Know your story and know why someone else should read it. Why will your story satisfy your audience?

If you would like to get more insider experience register for my 2 day workshop for adults on February 15th and 17th. Click Here for a Registration Form.

Okay everyone, I promised to unveil some of the cover ideas from the very first creation of the Turtle Town: The Inner Puka cover. These ideas came from the second rough draft of a second cover design collaboration and we have many more to choose from, but I would love to get your initial reactions. This process has taken a team of 5 people. The Publisher, Author (only because it's me; usually the author is not involved), Illustrator who draws the actually images, Graphic Cover Designer who puts the entire cover together and she collaborates with others on her team and the Publisher. The publisher makes the end decision with the help of industry professionals' advice. Our cover ideas have been going through continual changes and complete re-dos for the past 8 months. Let us know which one you like the best and why. A, B, or C??? Your ideas may get picked!

Please leave your comments below. I would love to hear from you and your children!

The Making of a New Children's Series "Editing Everything!"

noreply@blogger.com (Melissa M. Williams) — Tue, 25 Jan 2011 03:40:00 +0000

The process of writing and producing a book takes not only future planning, but patience and present moment thinking. There is never a day that goes by where I don't feel like I'm running behind. From making sure I haven't missed important deadlines in the time line of getting a book ready for publication, (Library PCN's, ISBN's, Barcodes, Copyrights, Website updates, Endorsements ...) to pre-marketing, working with everyone in art and graphics, planning sales and tours and book launches, but at the end of the day you have to take a deep breath and remember it will all get done, you'll be stressed, but it's that stress in the moment that makes it exciting and worth it.

Some of my favorite support systems that keep me going are emails from children asking about the next book. The emails at times can be blunt: "How much longer? I've been waiting forever! How long does it take to write a book?" I find the honesty refreshing and humorous at times, but I remind the kids of the publishing process and an author must edit and re-edit just like they have to in their own classroom. The kids definitely push me to keep it moving, but also show me why I'm doing it all in the first place.

So today's moral is, we must be patient with ourselves as writers. We work at our craft, just like we work on ourselves. It's funny, love/hate feeling during the editing phases of publication. You feel like you have finished something because the story is complete, yet it is so far from finished. You watch the story come to life as if it were on it's own internal journey, as you yourself are while embracing each change and letting go and moving to the next phase. Helpers come in and out, guiding you, and at times consoling you through blocked moments. Right now, while the story edits continue, I check in with my illustrator, Kelley Stengele on the interior illustrations. She sends me a few sketches for approval and then works on her own edits to get the final copy. Here's one of my favorite before and afters by Kelley!

You may recognize the Sea Trek Helmet from tonight's episode of the Bachelor reality show. The Sub Sea System's company's mascot is called Trekker the Lizard. The owner of the company asked if I would be interested in doing a licensing agreement and put their character in my next book. Well, ironically the Sea Trek company is based in California, so it made perfect sense to put Trekker in the Turtle Town book. This my friends is just another way two businesses market for each other. I reach the California Market while Sub Sea Systems brings in more children with their awesome underwater adventures and discovery lessons and a children's book with Trekker on the first page to top it off. It's imperative in this day and age everything you do have some type of marketability behind it. It's one way you disperse your gift into the world, what ever that may be.

Be sure to check in next week to see the very first revealing of the Turtle Town pre-cover. You can cast in your votes to choose the official cover in the weeks to come. I'm off to New York for the Annual Society of Children's Book Writer's and Illustrator's Conference to get a taste at the new industry talk and get some critiques from editors and agents on the big side of publishing. Wish me luck in the cold!

Keep on Writing!
Melissa M. Williams

The Making of a New Children's Series "In the Beginning"

noreply@blogger.com (Melissa M. Williams) — Tue, 18 Jan 2011 02:25:00 +0000

Everything starts with an idea in the beginning. Visionaries are known for having continual ideas flowing through their head. So much that at times the ideas become personified warriors fighting with one another making it hard to find a place to start. As we all know, with out a start their is no finish. The best advice I can give to fellow creatives is to loose the fear and need for perfection and move on. Start with the first idea and watch it create itself into something the mere 8 percent of your usable brain power would have never fathomed to recognize. That is the euphoric spirit in the art of all creatives.

The idea for my new series was actually an easy steal from my old series. I became aware to the fact that my readers and audience really liked my main character, Iggy's best friend, Snap Shell ... the wanna be surfer dude box shell turtle from Texas. The more and more I wrote the Iggy Series, the more and more I filed away ideas for Snap's own series. Due to the foundational character development I was able to prepare for Snap and grow during the writing of Iggy the Iguana, he became a character who had a story all of his own and needed a venue to tell it.

Now, I have to admit there is a fine balance between being a creative driven worker and the necessary skills of being on the business side of the literary world as well. My publisher's brain was telling me, "Melissa, your 3rd and 4th grade readers are growing up and they may not want to read the Iggy the Iguana series by the time they reach 6th grade, you have to keep them and give them what they want ... they need a more sophisticated, deeper, cooler, and longer chapter book series." Turtle Town was born.

During the inner collaborative process of developing the Turtle Town story, I realized I knew nothing about the background subject matter the book was to present. Yes the themes were ready to go, acceptance, gossip, clicks, and trying to find yourself during adolescence, but not the reality behind the location I was committing myself to ... Southern California. So, what did I do? I moved.

Seeing that I had a prior series to get my foot in the door with the San Diego school systems, I started doing author school visits for my Iggy Series with the California kids. The experience was exactly what I was looking for as I allowed the children to be a part of my project. They were eager to tell me all about what they do in California. My weekends were spent writing at the beach, going to surf competitions, hanging out with the Turtle and Tortoise Society, visiting all the major surf breaks along the coast, taking pictures, notes, and writing down lingo and conversation I heard along the way. With out that aspect to my writing journey, Snap Shell would have never become a real life surfer dude.

Today my 40,000 word manuscript is complete and in the editing and story critique stages. My book coach Bobby Ozuna is busy working the story into a creature of more depth and dimension, something I as the author have allowed another expert to take over while I continue my work as a publisher preparing for the next stages. To read up on the process and see pictures of what my book coach does to my rough manuscript, click the picture below to view Turtle Town's polishing and fine tuning done by the pro.

Bobby has given me many ideas along the way as he has come to know my story well. For instance, I had an idea for the title to my second book in the Turtle Town series, but couldn't put my finger on the first title. After discussing the essences of the story, Bobby suggested the story re-focus on my deeper meanings and the title for book one was born: The Inner Puka. It was perfect and brilliant. I may have never thought of it myself. That's what you call, Double Inspiration!

As a publisher I must work with many people in the art department of LongTale Publishing. My illustrator, Kelley Stengele is busy at work, working all the inner illustrations and waiting on my signal to finish that last bit of character illustrations for the cover while I collaborate with a group of experts to discover the perfect cover ideas, but I don't want to give too much of that away right now. Much of creating a book is about trial and error and trying on new looks with words and images. It is absolutely beautiful when it all comes together.

So that's all for now. Be sure to check out the blog next Monday for further detail into the creation process and to be the first to hear about the new changes to the story. I am so thankful for all of the wonderful people I work with ... it takes more than one person to make a book series, and that's where I will end today!

See you next week!

Melissa M Williams

The Making of a New Children's Series Part 1

noreply@blogger.com (Melissa M. Williams) — Mon, 10 Jan 2011 06:09:00 +0000

It's been awhile since I have taken time to speak out to my readers and fellow writers, so with the new year and a few new projects under my 2011 belt, I felt the need to let you all in on the process of creating and publishing stories that have now become second nature and to an extent, routine. Even so, the industry is constantly changing and with each new year, I learn so much through the ongoing experiences.

I am excited to say, that I will now be opening up a new door in my teaching arena for the ADULTS! I have spent many years focusing on teaching children the behind the scenes aspects to being a writer and publisher, but after a few years of adult coffee consultations, I really felt the need to start adult seminars.

With a new teaching adventure and audience, I will be starting a weekly blog series called, The Making of a New Children's Series. In this weekly writing, I will reveal some of the important lessons I have learned after starting my first series, Iggy the Iguana, and later working in the literary world as the President of Read3Zero and Owner of LongTale Publishing.

The process of writing a story is just as remarkable as the process of finding oneself. Each year we discover a little more of who we are and what we believe and want to leave in life. Developing characters, building relationships, and admitting your strengths and weaknesses, not only open your eyes to getting to know this industry but interesting insight also shows itself through the lives of characters who have become so real to you, you swear they were alive and some of your closest friends. I still laugh when telling some of my readers what little Molly did once she realized she would no longer be the youngest after her mom layed an egg. Or that Iggy's new teacher, Mr. Gruff the Goat gets caught eating his homework. Get it, goats eat paper and cans??? Okay, so you get my point.

Writers love their characters ... they empathize with them, get annoyed with them, allow them to grow and change and will do anything for them, just as a dedicated reader would do. It makes sense the narcissist tendencies authors have to love their characters so much, when really they are only looking into a mirror-like reflection within their waters. Don't we all make our characters change in the same fashion we change through life? It's why we feel a universal connection to stories and films.

I will introduce you to what it has been like to start an idea from childhood and to be fixated on a vision to later see it into fruition. Now that vision has naturally sparked another and created the stepping stone to the next. I am eager to see where my new series will take me, as it has already engaged a very hectic travel schedule this past year. The journey is the greatest gift as we look back, for the story would have never been started nor finished without the journey.

The best part about the journey is the people you meet along the way. Those people change you the most, and of course they change your writing by increasing it's depth, filing in the gaps, making it real, and for the most part turning it into a living and breathing masterpiece. Over the time I have taken to research, write, design, and re-develop Turtle Town with my personal writing coach, I had to allow people into the life of the story in order for it to grow. I had to get out of my comfort zone, had that been a different city, a different type of interview, letting go of a safe writing style and letting go of my control to allow other experts to guide my story into something more powerful than just a children book series. I will continue to share the important and trusted people I've met along the way and have allowed into my tight circle of creative visions.

For now I would like to welcome you to my behind the scenes tale of the making of Turtle Town, a spin off trilogy to Iggy the Iguana. The story is deeper, the words more powerful, the read is longer, and the symbolism is more meaningful. I hope to reach a wider range of audience in this new series, but as authors we all know we must always have a target. The Turtle Town Books are written for the 8 to 12 year old, but I hope that the story resonates well with older and younger alike. And for those who are wondering, the third book in the Iggy Series is already in the works, because each time I write a story on paper, I am writing the next story in my head. Enjoy! I would love to hear your thoughts.

Adult Workshops

noreply@blogger.com (Melissa M. Williams) — Fri, 07 Jan 2011 01:06:00 +0000

2 Part Series

Children's Book Writing and Insight Behind the Publishing Industry

Workshops for Adults

Presented by Children's Author

Melissa M. Williams

HAVE YOU ALWAYS WANTED TO UNCOVER THE MYSTERY BEHIND THE WRITING AND PUBLISHING INDUSTRY? DON’T MISS THIS 2 PART SERIES. COME WITH YOUR QUESTIONS!

• Insight behind the making of Children's Books

• What to know before you start writing

• Ways to Define and Reach your Audience

• Creative Writing Tips for Storyline Development

• Developing Characters that kids can relate to

• How writers turn their passion into a career

• Traditional vs. Non-Traditional Publishing

• Do Author’s really need agents?

• It's more than just writing

• How to be in the Book Business

• Marketing Tips and Must Knows!

• Author School Visits

• MUST HAVE Resources

• AND MUCH MORE

Tuesday & Thursday Feb. 15th and 17th

6:00pm-9:00pm

Age Level: 17 years to Adult

Location: Cy-Fair Library/Lonestar College Room LRNC131

9191 Barker Cypress Road, Cypress, TX

Seating Limited. Email for Registration Form.

Rate for both nights: $50

(Seating is limited, register NOW!)

Please Email Melissa for a Registration Form.

Creative Writing Workshop in Houston

noreply@blogger.com (Melissa M. Williams) — Tue, 28 Dec 2010 06:06:00 +0000

Parents! We only have one spot left in the Character Development and Creative Writing Workshop for 2nd-4th graders on Saturday January 8th! Please contact me if you would like to grab this spot. Details are below. Happy New Year Everyone!!!

Character Development and Creative Writing Workshop for Kids!

Learn specific character development techniques used in your favorite books, movies, and stories! Students will learn basic Character Roles critical to the development of fictional characters and how to place them in an original storyline. Heroes, Mentors, Villains, Heralds, and Threshold Guardians, all have a special role while helping move memorable stories from one act to the next.

Learn the fundamental Story Layout: the 3 Act Story Line and transitions between story acts, including character trials, story climax, and character change. These skills can all be used in and out of the classroom.

(Seating is limited, email Melissa for Registration)

NEXT CLASS

*** Lunch will be Provided **** Price per Workshop: $50 ***

Saturday January 8^th 11:00am-4:00pm

Grade Level: 2^nd-4^th

Location: Cy-Fair Library/Lonestar College Room LCNR131

9191 Barker Cypress Road, Cypress, TX

Forget the Labels ... It's all About Encouragement

noreply@blogger.com (Melissa M. Williams) — Sat, 18 Dec 2010 22:40:00 +0000

“The Key to Success”

Diagnosing certain learning or behavior disorders can be necessary at times, and coming from the mental health field and school of study, I’ve see it happen more often than not these days. I too as a child had major problems with reading comprehension, focus, and memory. Back then we didn’t get treated for Attention Deficit Disorder or you would rarely find a child diagnosed with Dyslexia, etc. My parents and teachers noticed that I was struggling and both spent extra time studying with me. My mom went above and beyond to research different ways that children learn. We do not all learn nor test the exact same “cookie cutter” or standard way. Even though I later went on to be a straight A student, I never received more than average on standardized tests, in grade school and after college, for my GRE to get into graduate school.

I was never treated for a learning disorder. I was never told I was slow or stupid. I was only encouraged to do my best. The common thread through out my entire life was encouragement to be and do anything. I always felt smart, despite the fact I was having trouble in elementary school. Without that encouragement at a young age, I believe to this day that I would have suffered from low self-esteem in school. I highly credit my parents’ actions when asked where my support came from in following through with my accomplished goals, including: finishing college and my master’s counseling program with honors, becoming involved with learning societies, starting a publishing company at age twenty-five and finishing my first children’s chapter book manuscript to later start a literacy foundation and teach children the skills of reading, writing, and comprehension. My question to myself is this: Would I have done these things if I were labeled with a learning disability? It’s hard to say, since that was the past, but I often wonder. Due to the fact that I am just as sensitive as independent, my sensitivity may have gotten the better of me back then.

The reality of the situation in every classroom is a handful of students will become diagnosed with the intent to ultimately help. However, we must remain sensitive to each individual case. It saddens me when I teach a child who has the imagination of a genius, the voice of a little actor, and the artistic skills of a professional cartoonist at age ten, yet when we begin reading or writing, he or she shuts down or becomes irritable because they “think they are stupid.” If you are a teacher or parent who has experienced this with your children, it truly breaks your heart. I often tell my students, if we were all the same wouldn’t this be a boring world? It goes the same for learning and later career specialties. If we looked at the differences toward learning styles in a positive way, we could turn low production into over-achievement. The first step is working together with encouragement as the foundation.

Remember some of the most brilliant names in literature, history, psychology, and Hollywood became who they are today because they were different. Those energies that were once looked down upon were channeled into a talent. You may find that your child who is having difficulties in school will become the most passionate and talented of his or her peers. You have this to look forward to. Passion for individuality and creativity is often a direct result if given a little encouragement to be true to yourself.

I say these things not to look down on the realm of mental health, for I have been on both sides of the system. The part that we all must play today as mentors to our youth is to encourage children to be true to themselves and not feel like they have to be like everyone else. The conflicts that arise in all of our lives often have the opportunity to grow us and shape us for the better, not the worse.
I would like to thank those teachers who have changed the lives of students because you have believed in these concepts. I hear your stories shared by parents and children, and you who go above the standardized school curriculum with positive energy are truly a blessing to this world.

Creative Writing Workshops and Publishing Opportunitites for Kids

noreply@blogger.com (Melissa M. Williams) — Wed, 08 Dec 2010 03:48:00 +0000

December News

Workshops for Kids (Houston)

The Creative Writing and Character Development Workshop

Saturday January 8^th 11:00am-4:00pm

Grade Level: 2^nd-4^th

Location: Cy-Fair Library/Lonestar College Room LCNR131

9191 Barker Cypress Road, Cypress, TX

The Art of Writing Fiction and

the Insight Behind the Publishing Industry

Saturday January 22^nd 11:00am-4:00pm

Grade Level: 5^th-9th

Location: Cy-Fair Library/Lonestar College Room LRNC215

9191 Barker Cypress Road, Cypress, TX

*** Lunch will be Provided **** Price per Workshop: $50 ***

Email Melissa for a Registration Form and more information on each workshop.
Melissa@LongTalePublishing.com

Workshops for Adults (Houston)

2 Part Series

Children's Book Writing and Insight Behind the Publishing Industry

Insight behind the making of Children's Books
What to know before you start writing
Ways to Define and Reach your Audience
Creative Writing Tips for Storyline Development
Developing Characters that kids can relate to
How writers turn their passion into a career
It's more than just writing
How to be in the Book Business
Marketing Tips and Must Knows!
Author School Visits
AND MUCH MORE

Tuesday & Thursday Feb. 15th and 17th

6:00pm-9:00pm

Age Level: 17 years to Adult

Location: Cy-Fair Library/Lonestar College Room LRNC131

9191 Barker Cypress Road, Cypress, TX

Seating Limited. Email for Registration Form.

Rate for both nights: $50

Melissa@LongTalePublishing.com

Short Story and Poetry Publishing Contest for Kids

Read3Zero is now taking submissions for short stories, artwork, and poetry for the 2011 I Write Short Stories by Kids for Kids Anthology.

Visit the "I Write" Link and the
"I Write-Poetry" Link at www.Read3Zero.com for rules and entry requirements to be a part of the next I Write Book, published by LongTale Publishing.

Read3Zero will be taking submission through the end of March 2011.

Check out the Book Signing event from the 2010 Publication below!

Read3Zero's 2010 Book Signing

Congratulations to our 45 published Authors and Illustrators! We had an amazing time at the book signing held in Houston for our young talent! Thank you to all of our sponsors and everyone who helped out to make this event so special!

The day started off with a reading from each of our authors and an art work display by each of our illustrators.

It was an honor to have everyone sign the I Write Poster, which will be displayed in our Read3Zero office!

There was never a dull moment during the massive book signing as everyone got a real taste of what it's like to sign hundreds of books in an hour!

EVERYONE was eager to get their books signed by our famous authors and illustrators!

Many of our authors personalized their autographs to family and friends ... and Press!

Many of our illustrators brought their original artwork illustration to share at the event!

What a turnout!

Thank you for sharing your talent with us at Read3Zero! We are so proud of all of you!

Iggy is excited for the Holidays! Check out his special deal at the bottom.

Author School Visits
Spring Book Tour

Melissa Williams will be in your area during the following months for author school visits. Book your school today!!!

HOUSTON,TX

-Jan 6th-24th

-March 28th-31st

-April 18th-29th

NEW YORK CITY

BROOKLYN, NY
-Jan 26th-31st

AUSTIN,TX

-Feb 9th-12th

-March 7th-10th

DFW, TX

-Feb 22nd-March 5th

-May 2nd-4th

SAN ANTONIO, TX

-March 8th-12th

NASHVILLE,TN

-April 4th-11th

SAN DIEGO, CA

-May-6th-June 2nd

TURTLE TOWN

Coming this March!

If you liked the Iggy the Iguana Series then get ready for, Turtle Town, the spin off chapter book series to Iggy the Iguana, staring Iggy's best friend, Snap Shell, the Texas Box Shell Tortoise! Snap's dream is to become a West Coast surfer dude, but he has one problem ... he can't swim. When Snap Shell and his dad leave Texas to head for the sandy beaches of San Diego, California, the locals, "the sea turtles," find it odd that Snap Shell has to wear flippers while in surf school. Snap won't let the fact that he doesn't have webbed feet get him down, and to everyone's surprise he manages to place in the Southwest Surfing Conference. Lucas the Leatherback gets wind of the surfing newcomer and THE HEAT IS ON, because no one will ever out surf Lucas. Will Snap's new sea turtle buddies help prove that he has the natural spirit of a surfer, or will Snap need something bigger than talent to show that differences shouldn't come between turtles and tortoises when strange things start to take place on the beach? Be sure to check out Turtle Town, coming in early spring 2011. And don't forget to read about Snap Shell's Texas tales in the Iggy the Iguana Chapter Book Series! www.IggytheIguana.com

Turtle Town Books
Ages:8-12
Pages: 300
Type: Paperback

Save 25%	Just in time for the Holidays! Buy either a paperback or hardback Iggy the Iguana book set and automatically receive the Iggy the Iguana Audio Book as a gift from Iggy for Free. Offer can be used on two of the same book or any Iggy the Iguana book, including the sequel, Summer League. Go to www.IggytheIguana.com to order.
Offer Expires: 12/25/10