Write What Inspires You! ~ Donna M. McDine ~

Authentic Voice: Unleash Your Writing

noreply@blogger.com (Donna M. McDine) — Fri, 10 Feb 2012 15:23:00 +0000

Normally I do not tune into reality shows, but for some reason when I settled in to relax a bit on the couch last night I stopped at the show The Voice hosted by Carson Daly. I've seen promo snippets over the last year and thought it was just another run of the mill reality show. Boy was I wrong!

The premise of The Voice is the judges keep their backs to the contestant and if they are impressed by their voice (without a visual) they hit a button that spins their chair around for their chance to convince the contestant to join their team. I was instantly impressed by the coaches, Christina Aguilera, Cee Lo Green, Adam Levine, and Blake Shelton. Their positive energy and graciousness toward the contestants was heart warming. There was no bashing and making fun even if a judge did not join in the bid for the contestant. Each and every time the judges provided constructive feedback, with no negative undertones or sarcasm. What a breath of fresh air!

Christina Aguilera spoke about "not stifling your voice, let your true self shine through, and not be someone else. Once you find your authentic voice it has the chance to soar." I then had a major ah-ha moment.

You may be wondering at this point what does this have to do with writing. And if you are like me you've had your ah-ha moment. Instilling this thought process into my writing is a postive affirmation I know I'm going to start every writing session with. I've typed Christina Aguilera's words on paper and have posted them on my computer monitor to keep me focused and postive.

Go ahead find your authentic voice and let your words flow to paper and soar for all to enjoy!

~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~
Best wishes,
Donna M. McDine
Award-winning Children's Author
The Golden Pathway ~ August 2010 ~ Guardian Angel Publishing, Inc.
http://guardianangelpublishing.com/pathway.htm

Writers Online Workshop: What about Editors? with Faye Levow – February 9, 7 pm CST

noreply@blogger.com (Donna M. McDine) — Tue, 07 Feb 2012 22:00:00 +0000

Freelance writing careers are so much more than the writing. A freelance writer needs to learn the importance of editors and how to make your relationship with an editor flourish. Learn from author, editor, book-writing coach, and publisher Faye Levow on Thursday, February 9 at 7 pm CST for the Working Writer’s Club “What about Editors?” workshop.

Details:

Topic: What about Editors?
Date: Thursday, February 9, 2012, 7:00 p.m. CST
Presenter: Faye Levow
Cost: Free for Working Writer’s Club Members
Description: In this 55-minute writers workshop, you’ll learn…

· The types of editors, what they each do, when you need them, why you need them.

· How to choose an editor. How to work with an editor. How editors charge.

Working Writer’s Club members will automatically receive an invite to this workshop and if you are not a Working Writer’s Club member register at the Working Writer’s Club http://www.workingwritersclub.com/events-2.

About Faye Levow:

Ms. Levow has been a freelance writer and editor for over 30 years, in addition to expertise in a variety of other fields. Her background in business and sales, as well as spirituality has served her well in being able to relate to the subject matter of the books she has edited. As a book-writing coach, Ms. Levow assists upcoming authors in reducing overwhelm and seeing their way clear to getting their best-seller finished. She not only empowers her authors to achieve their dreams, but also get their empowering messages out to thousands more people than might have been possible otherwise. Ms. Levow's personal goal is to create more best-sellers than any other single publishing company in the history of publishing. Visit http://www.launchpadpublishing.com/apps/blog/.

Visit the Working Writer’s Club, and become a Facebook Fan today at http://www.facebook.com/home.php#!/pages/The-Working-Writers-Club/221038321276421. By becoming a Facebook Fan it will ensure that you are updated on all of the valuable resources and articles at The Working Writer’s Club.

~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~
Best wishes,
Donna M. McDine
Award-winning Children's Author
The Golden Pathway ~ August 2010 ~ Guardian Angel Publishing, Inc.
http://guardianangelpublishing.com/pathway.htm

Children’s Ezine Guardian Angel Kids: Math Concepts – February 2012 Issue

noreply@blogger.com (Donna M. McDine) — Sat, 04 Feb 2012 05:01:00 +0000

Teaching math concepts beyond traditional number problems opens up creative opportunities for both teachers and students. Different strategies include the use of poetry, stories, engaging articles, and activities that get the body and mind working in unison.

Come explore the world of "Math Concepts" in the Guardian Angel Kids February 2012 issue and learn how to tell time, add, subtract, and divide, rap to numbers through poetry, learn the history of pennies, how powerful zero truly is, and hands on math activities. Make it a family learning experience and fun will surely be had by one and all.

Letter from the EDITOR-IN-CHIEF:

Donna M. McDine

Featured BookS:

Learn to Count 1-10 flip book by Eugene Ruble

Sparkie: A Star Afraid of the Dark book trailer by Susann Batson

Children’S poetry, SHORT STORIES, and articleS:

“Can You Tell Time?” quiz by Marion Tickner – explores the different timepieces before the technology explosion.

“How Many Are Half?” poetry by Donna J. Shepherd – Grandma’s delicious chocolate chip cookie treat and how the cookies are shared.

“Numbers Rap,” poetry by Bill Kirk – the wonder of numbers all around us.

“Cookies with Sprinkles,” by Shari L. Klase and illustrated by Julie Hammond – a whimsical adventure to Grandma’s house.

“The Value of Pennies,” by Gina Napoli – discover the history and significance of pennies.

“The All Powerful Nothing,” by Mary Reina – learn about the power of zero and how it turns nothing into something.

“Hands on Math Activities for Home or School,” by Kathy Stemke – get moving and grooving with enjoyable Math activities.

“Hopscotch Math,” by Karen Robuck – teach and reinforce basic Math skills with the fun of hopscotch.

Visit Guardian Angel Kid today and www.guardian-angel-kids.com and enjoy a child safe and ad free Ezine.

We also invite you to stay connected with Guardian Angel Kids through our Facebook Fan Page http://www.facebook.com/pages/Guardian-Angel-Kids-Ezine/163785080346247.

Please feel free to drop Editor-in-Chief, Donna McDine an email at submissions@guardian-angel-kids.com and let them know what you think of Guardian Angel Kids and what you'd like to see in the future. They aim to please.

The Guardian Angel Kids Ezine staff and contributors look forward to your visit. Thank you for your time and interest.

~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~
Best wishes,
Donna M. McDine
Award-winning Children's Author
The Golden Pathway ~ August 2010 ~ Guardian Angel Publishing, Inc.
http://guardianangelpublishing.com/pathway.htm

Working Writer's Club facebook Fridays Live Chat - Feb 3 at 1 pm CST

noreply@blogger.com (Donna M. McDine) — Thu, 02 Feb 2012 05:01:00 +0000

Please join me at the Working Writer's Club Facebook Fridays Freelance Writers Chat on Friday, February 3rd at 1 pm CST/2 pm EST.

Topic: How to Use Media Releases to Sell More Books and Build Your Freelance Writing Business! Facilitated by: Donna McDine

If you aren't already a fan of the Working Writer's Club on Facebook, please click on the Facebook logo here to get to our fanpage. When you get there, just click on the word "like" to become a fan.

Looking forward to chatting with you.

~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~
Best wishes,
Donna M. McDine
Award-winning Children's Author
The Golden Pathway ~ August 2010 ~ Guardian Angel Publishing, Inc.
http://guardianangelpublishing.com/pathway.htm

Facebook Amazon Blast ~ Enter at a Chance to Win $100 Amazon Gift Card

noreply@blogger.com (Donna M. McDine) — Wed, 01 Feb 2012 14:00:00 +0000

http://sasonandpobi.com/events/amazon-facebook-blast-event/

a Rafflecopter giveaway

~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~
Best wishes,
Donna M. McDine
Award-winning Children's Author
The Golden Pathway ~ August 2010 ~ Guardian Angel Publishing, Inc.
http://guardianangelpublishing.com/pathway.htm

Writers Online Workshop: Turn Your Love of Writing into a Business and Earn a Great Income with Suzanne Lieurance

noreply@blogger.com (Donna M. McDine) — Tue, 31 Jan 2012 17:10:00 +0000

Do you enjoy putting pen to paper or fingers to the keyboard to write your next intriguing article, short story, or manuscript but aren’t sure how to turn your hobby into a full fledge freelance writing business? That’s right your flare for the written word can create you an income flow.

Learn from the master herself the Working Writer’s Coach, Suzanne Lieurance when she presents her latest writers online workshop Turn Your Love of Writing into a Business & Earn a Great Income! on Thursday, February 2 at 7 pm CDT.

Details:

Topic: Turn Your Love of Writing into a Business & Earn a Great Income!

Date: Thursday, February 2, 2012, at 7:00 p.m. CST

Presenter: Suzanne Lieurance

Cost: Free for Working Writer's Club Members

In this 55-minute writer's workshop, you will learn and discover:

What it takes to start a writing business
What it takes to earn a great income as a "working" freelance writer
Answers to your questions about becoming a "working" freelance writer

All club members will receive an email invitation and learning guide (with call in details) prior to this event. If you are not a Working Writer’s Club member register at the Working Writer’s Club http://www.workingwritersclub.com/events-2.

About Suzanne Lieurance:

Suzanne Lieurance is a children’s writer with (at last count) 23 published books for children. She was also an instructor with the Institute of Children’s Literature (located in West Redding, Connecticut) for over 8 years. As The Working Writer’s Coach, Lieurance helps people who love to write become “working” freelance writers and make a living doing what they love to do best.

Visit the Working Writer’s Club, and become a Facebook Fan today at http://www.facebook.com/home.php#!/pages/The-Working-Writers-Club/221038321276421. By becoming a Facebook Fan it will ensure that you are updated on all of the valuable resources and articles at The Working Writer’s Club.

~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~
Best wishes,
Donna M. McDine
Award-winning Children's Author
The Golden Pathway ~ August 2010 ~ Guardian Angel Publishing, Inc.
http://guardianangelpublishing.com/pathway.htm

Freelance Writing 2012 Goals

noreply@blogger.com (Donna M. McDine) — Wed, 25 Jan 2012 17:48:00 +0000

I'm a planner and list person by nature, so creating my 2012 goals with specific tasks I need to complete each week to achieve my goals has provided me with direction to insure my success.

I'm pleased to share my goal progress as of January 25th:

I have held steadfast to editing my middle grade manuscript and have completed handwritten edits of chapters 1 thru 19 and have typed the edits for Chapter 1.
I have requested book reviews of The Golden Pathway to various book bloggers and I'm starting to hear back from them with interested responses.
I'm in the midst of creating a contest at www.thegoldenpathway.blogspot.com for February to celebrate Black History Month. Please sure to stop by on February 1st to learn all about it.
I've created a To Be Written log with topics and due dates through May 2012 and I'm writing every day in addition to the middle grade manuscript edits.
I have become much more social on blogs by visiting and commenting specifically to their current blog posting. It's a sure fire way to conduct cross promotional efforts.

I'd like to hear from you as to how your 2012 goals are progressing.

Wishing you success in your writing career!

~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~
Best wishes,
Donna M. McDine
Award-winning Children's Author
The Golden Pathway ~ August 2010 ~ Guardian Angel Publishing, Inc.
http://guardianangelpublishing.com/pathway.htm

Children's Book about Tuskegee Airmen Delights 'Red Tails' Movie Fans

noreply@blogger.com (Donna M. McDine) — Fri, 20 Jan 2012 17:02:00 +0000

Online PR News – 19-January-2012 –As the George Lucas film "Red Tails" hits movie theaters nationwide, parents can share the legacy of the Tuskegee Airmen with young readers through children's picture book, Chasing the Spirit of Service.

The book features young Emma who comes from three generations of Air Force pilots and misses her father when he must travel. Her best friend Adam tries to cheer her up. Emma's great grandfather, a Tuskegee Airman, shares his life story with Emma and Adam and helps them to appreciate the spirit of service. Emma and Adam's journey to understand, honor, and capture the spirit of service for themselves will touch the hearts of both young and old. Anyone who has ever served in the military or has known someone who served will appreciate the book's universal themes of duty to country, separation from family, and the importance of saying “thank you.”

Chasing the Spirit of Service was released nationally on November 30, 2010 by Guardian Angel Publishing, Inc., based out of Saint Louis, Missouri. Since then, the author and illustrator have been doing book tours in schools to teach about the Tuskegee Airmen. The book, Chasing the Spirit of Service, can be purchased online at http://www.amazon.com/, http://www.barnesandnoble.com/, and http://www.guardianangelpublishing.com/spirit-service.htm.

Chasing the Spirit of Service is distributed in bookstores through Ingram, Bertrams, Baker & Taylor (ISBN: 978-1-61633-109-2; 1616331097). For libraries, schools, churches, independent bookstores, and shops requesting wholesale print books in bulk prices, please contact the publisher, Lynda Burch, at bulk-orders@guardianangelpublishing.com.

Additional book related activities and resources for kids, parents, teachers, and military families may be found at the author’s website, http://www.kristenzajac.com/. Readers can view more of the illustrator’s commissioned artwork (paintings, portraits, murals) at the artist’s website, http://www.zhibit.org/tuckerillustrations.

For interview requests or book tour information, please contact the author at kkzajac@gmail.com.

To view the book trailer and to learn more about the author, illustrator, and publisher visit:
http://www.onlineprnews.com/news/199610-1326953210-childrens-book-about-tuskegee-airmen-delights-red-tails-movie-fans.html

~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~
Best wishes,
Donna M. McDine
Award-winning Children's Author
The Golden Pathway ~ August 2010 ~ Guardian Angel Publishing, Inc.
http://guardianangelpublishing.com/pathway.htm

Geography Project ~ The Mark & Emily Turner Memorial Library

noreply@blogger.com (Donna M. McDine) — Thu, 19 Jan 2012 17:50:00 +0000

Join in on the fun to help kids with geography!

An isolated library in Presque Isle, Northern Maine, USA is looking to help local children to appreciate geography. All you need is a postcard and stamp!

"The children's library is entering the New Yeawr with a new proejct to explore geographic literacy and mapping...but WE NEED YOUR HELP! We'd love to receive postcards from where you are to post on our new wall map of the United States. In exchange, we'll document the project and post regular updates to let you see how things grow."

Postcards can be purchased or made...just send them along to:

The Mark & Emily Turner Memorial Library
39 Second Street
Presque Isle, Maine 04769, USA

Hope you will take part. Doesn't matter when you are reading this post, there is NO time limit.

Thank you!

~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~
Best wishes,
Donna M. McDine
Award-winning Children's Author
The Golden Pathway ~ August 2010 ~ Guardian Angel Publishing, Inc.
http://guardianangelpublishing.com/pathway.htm

How to Write Book Reviews: The Slippery Art of Book Reviewing Workshop with Mayra Calvani

noreply@blogger.com (Donna M. McDine) — Mon, 16 Jan 2012 05:01:00 +0000

Why do you want to become a reviewer? This question is one you must know the answer to before trying to become a reviewer or you will be wasting your time.

Is your nose always stuck in a book? Do you enjoy sharing your ideas about books with readers? Become a book reviewer.
Learn the secrets of book reviewing from Mayra Calvani, co-author of the ForeWord Best Book of the Year award-winning title and Global eBooks Award in the Reference Non-fiction category, The Slippery Art of Book Reviewing. From the key elements of a good reviewer, to what makes a good review, to how to write a thoughtful, intelligent review, to the different types of reviews, to how to deal with the most common reviewing problems, to how to build an online platform, this workshop will teach you, in a nutshell, all you need to know to get started as a professional book reviewer.

Want to test the waters first? Opt-in today at www.mayracalvani.com and receive the first lesson of Calvani’s book reviewing workshop, as well as her free eBook, Reviewers Talk About Their Craft!

The Slippery Art of Book Reviewing Workshop, Lesson 1:
Topics:

Why do you want to become a reviewer?

Benefits and rewards of reviewing for both aspiring and experienced authors

Assignment questions
After completing lesson one and you decide book reviewing is indeed for you, visit: http://mayracalvani.com/workshops/ to sign up for the complete nine lessons of The Slippery Art of Book Reviewing Workshop.
What attendees are saying…

"When you take Mayra Calvani's 'The Slippery Art of Book Reviewing' you'll gain confidence in how you cull the book's purpose, themes, and story for your readers. She breaks down a writing form--the review--that is intimidating for many writers, but can become an art form and a vehicle for greater access into the larger literary world. I also enjoyed learning many practical tips such as posting your book review guidelines on your website and how to tactfully tell someone you won't be able to review their book. As a book reviewer for over five years, I very much appreciate Mayra's guidance since I have found few resources on how to effectively write book reviews."- Alice Osborn, M.A., reviewer for Pedestal Magazine
“The Slippery Art of Book Reviewing is a great course for any novice or seasoned veteran. Calvani offers valid tips on writing reviews and addressing issues in this business. A breath of fresh air Calvani delivers this course with diversity and experience.” - Mirta Espinola, PR/Editor, http://www.espinolaeditor.blogspot.com/
About Mayra Calvani:

Award-winning multi-genre author Mayra Calvani writes fiction and nonfiction for children and adults. She reviews for SimplySharly.com, The NY Journal of Books and Blogcritics Magazine. She's had over 300 articles, reviews, interviews and stories published online. Visit her website at http://www.mayracalvani.com/.

~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~
Best wishes,
Donna M. McDine
Award-winning Children's Author
The Golden Pathway ~ August 2010 ~ Guardian Angel Publishing, Inc.
http://guardianangelpublishing.com/pathway.htm

Cash Giveaways: OutnumberedMama ~ Jump Start 2012

noreply@blogger.com (Donna M. McDine) — Sat, 14 Jan 2012 05:01:00 +0000

Are you ready to jump into 2012 with some cold hard cash? Do you have a resolution that is going to take a little bit of money or are you just in need of some spending money? What ever your reason, OutnumberedMama from The Busy Woman's Guide to Surviving Motherhood has organized an cold hard - PayPal - Cash Payday of $500 for you to Jump Start 2012. A second prize of a $50 Amazon.com eGiftCard and a third prize of a $30 Amazon eGiftCard is also up for grabs.

Welcome! I'm escatic to be part of the OutnumberedMama's Jump into 2012 with $500 cash or a $50 Amazon Gift or a $30 Amazon Gift Card! Have fun getting to know all these wonderful bloggers!

All you have to do is use the Rafflecopter below to follow, friend, like, and subscribe to the participating blogs and you are entered to win one of these great prizes. You can do all or just some of them, it's totally up to you. Remember whenever you are using a Rafflecopter it is best that you are only viewing that particular post on the blog you are using. If you are having trouble, refresh the page.

Since this prize will be awarded using PayPal and email, this giveaway is open Worldwide - if you have a PayPal and/or an email address you can win!

Giveaway Starts January 7th and ends January 31st at 11:59PM PST. Winner will be selected by using Random.org via Rafflecopter and will have 48 hours to respond to their notification email before another winner is selected.

Please visit all of the Participating Blogs:
The Busy Woman's Guide to Surviving Motherhood
Retail Therapy Lounge
Thifty Divas
Burning Moon
Travel Contests & Sweepstakes
Disney Contests & Sweepstakes
Savvy Sister Shop
As Mom Sees It
Chic Monkey Boutique
Indiana Coupon Saving & Giveaways
Sprinkle Me Pink
Finger Click Saver
My Style Spot
Peanut Butter and Whine
Unconventional Librarian
A Girl Worth Saving
Hearts Content of a Mama
Maxwell's Mommy
3 Boys and a Dog
Powered by Mom
Deal Seeking Bliss
Best Fragrances and Beauty Supplies
Simple Wyrdings
Craft Yourself
My Little House of Treasures
Tidbits from a Mom
Counting My Kisses
Bohemian Babushka
Momondealz Healthy Concepts
Libby's Library Reviews & Giveaways
Family Fun and Life
$uper $aving Momma
Money Saving Mindy
Mom on the Run
Mark Your Savings
Coupon Scribbles
Babes and Kids Review
Theresa's Mixed Nuts
Write What Inspires You! Donna McDine
The Working Writer's Club
Rants and Raves of a Crazed Mom
Madame Deals
Carol Fraser Hagen - Literacy Specialist
Punk Rock Mommy
A Family Village
Foodie Gems
Diary of a Working Mom
Debbie Does Coupons
Mompreneur Mogul

a Rafflecopter giveaway

Disclaimer: This cash was collected from each of the blogs listed in this post. There was no outside sponsorship by a major corporation. Chances of winning are dependent on the number of entries.

~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~
Best wishes,
Donna M. McDine
Award-winning Children's Author
The Golden Pathway ~ August 2010 ~ Guardian Angel Publishing, Inc.
http://guardianangelpublishing.com/pathway.htm

How to Write Picture Books: Walking on a Rainbow Workshop with Mayra Calvani

noreply@blogger.com (Donna M. McDine) — Fri, 13 Jan 2012 05:01:00 +0000

Have you ever dreamed of becoming a children’s picture book author? Perhaps you have lots of ideas sure to delight young readers, yet aren’t quite sure how to get started? Or maybe you’ve already tried your hand at it, but don’t feel confident enough to submit yet? If you’ve answered ‘Yes’ to these questions, then this is the workshop for you!
Walking on a Rainbow: A Fiction Picture Book Workshop

During the course, you’ll have the chance to write the complete first draft of a fiction picture book manuscript under 700 words. Why under 700 words? Because you want your story to be as marketable as possible and 700 and under is the word count agents and publishers are after these days. You’ll be able to draft your story while learning the key elements that make a fiction picture book a success. Feedback will be provided throughout the workshop.

Walking on a Rainbow: A Fiction Picture Book Workshop consists of ten lessons, which will be transmitted one lesson per week for ten weeks.

What better way to “test drive” this comprehensive workshop, then by opting-in today at http://www.mayrassecretbookcase.com/contact.html and receive the first two lessons of Calvani’s Walking on a Rainbow: A Fiction Picture Book Workshop, as well as the free eBook, Tips for Children’s Writers.

After completing lessons one and two and you decide writing picture books will make your imagination soar visit http://mayracalvani.com/workshops/ to sign up for the complete ten lessons of Walking on a Rainbow: A Fiction Picture Book Workshop.
What attendees are saying…

“The workshop ‘Walking on a Rainbow’ was a blast!! I had so much fun, and I learned a wealth of information about writing picture books! The absolute best part was the invaluable feedback Mayra provided after every writing assignment. I highly recommend this workshop to anyone remotely considering writing picture books. In fact, I’d love to take this workshop again.” - Arsoleen Woolcock

“Walking on a Rainbow, the picture book workshop led by Mayra Calvani, was the perfect catalyst I needed to get published. Mayra broke down the dynamics of a picture book using clear, succinct language. Her examples and analysis of published books helped further explain each lesson, and her knowledge of the picture book market was evident throughout the course. I have taken other classes in the past and read other craft books on writing for children but Mayra’s method pulled it all together for me. Her personal critiques of each participant’s work throughout the lessons were extremely beneficial. I personally, printed out Mayra’s lessons, and keep my “Walking on a Rainbow textbook” handy. I would highly recommend Walking on a Rainbow for anyone wanting to write in the picture book genre.” – Suzanne Purvis

About Mayra Calvani:

Mayra Calvani writes fiction and nonfiction for children and adults. Her children’s picture books include Crash, The Magic Violin, Humberto, the Bookworm Hamster, Frederico, the Mouse Violinist, The Doll Violinist, and the upcoming The Fox in the Night, and Water Play. She’s had over 300 reviews, articles, stories and interviews published online and in print. She’s represented by Mansion Street Literary Management. Visit her website at http://www.mayrassecretbookcase.com/.

~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~
Best wishes,
Donna M. McDine
Award-winning Children's Author
The Golden Pathway ~ August 2010 ~ Guardian Angel Publishing, Inc.
http://guardianangelpublishing.com/pathway.htm

New Years Resolution Writing and Marketing Progress Update

noreply@blogger.com (Donna M. McDine) — Wed, 11 Jan 2012 16:31:00 +0000

I don't know about you, but keeping to my writing and marketing goals 12 days into January has put me in a much better place mentally as to the direction of my freelance writing career. My update:

I have held steadfast to editing my middle grade manuscript and have completed editing chapters 1 thru 6.
I have requested book reviews of The Golden Pathway to various book bloggers and I'm starting to hear back from them with interested responses.
I have become much more social on blogs by visiting and commenting specifically to their current blog posting. It's a sure fire way to conduct cross promotional efforts.

Editing Books Like a Pro: 6 Last Minute Steps Before You Begin Manuscript Submissions by Karen Cioffi

noreply@blogger.com (Donna M. McDine) — Tue, 10 Jan 2012 05:01:00 +0000

I am tickled pink to host Karen Cioffi today as she shares with us Editing Books Like a Pro: 6 Last Minute Steps Before You Begin Manuscript Submissions. (Excerpt from Editing Like a Pro: Self-Editing for Books and Articles by Karen Cioffi).
So, you think you’re ready to submit your manuscript. Read this first.

You’re at the final stretch. You’ve done everything you could think of to get your manuscript ready for submissions. You’ve used all the self-editing tricks you learned, such as changing the font and reading it again, printing the manuscript out and reading it yet another time, and reading each paragraph backwards. Now, you’re at the finish line. But, before you cross the line, here are 6 last minute steps you should take into consideration

1. Do a Final Self-Edit

By this point, your manuscript should be so polished you need your sunglass to read it. But, give it another once over anyway. You never know.

2. Get your manuscript edited

When you think it’s perfect, have it edited before you start submitting it. Yeah, yeah, yeah, I know, you think this step is overkill, and it will cost money. You’re right on the second part, it will cost money. But, if you can afford it, it will be money well spent.

No matter how many times you self-edit, there is the chance that you’ll miss something. Writers are just too close to their own work. While you’re reading, your brain is running on ahead, knowing and seeing what should be there, what you intended, whether or not it really is.

If you’ve thought it over and it’s not in your budget, then go over this e-book carefully and be sure to apply everything in it. It would also be a good idea, if you want to be super, duper certain, and if you can afford it, to invest in at least one comprehensive, full-length book on editing. While this e-book has a lot of tips and tricks, it’s always better to be safe, rather than sorry.

3. Create a log line
A log line or pitch line is a one sentence description or your manuscript. This may take a bit of trial and error, but, it’s important to master.
See the bonus article, “The Elevator Pitch for Your Manuscript,” below.

4. Create a synopsis

A synopsis is a short description of your story. Be sure your writing should be tight and focused—leave out the fluff. The content should be, at the very least, self-edited and proofread before sending it off to an agent or publisher. You are trying to grab the reader's attention and let the reader know that you are grammar literate.

Basically, the synopsis should briefly let the editor know what the book is about: the beginning of your story, your main character’s needs or wants, how he strives to reach his goals, the obstacles/conflicts in his way, and how he overcomes the conflicts and moves forward to the final outcome.
I read an interesting article recommending that your synopsis should be created using your detailed outline.
5. Create a query letter or proposal

A query is a sales pitch. It should be three paragraphs and only one page long. The first paragraph quickly and interestingly describes the story; it’s the hook. The second paragraph tells a bit about you, your qualifications for writing the book. And, it’s a good idea to include a bit on how you intend to help market the book. The third paragraph is the conclusion; keep it short.

6. Final Step: Submissions

Okay, your manuscript is polished and shiny, now it’s time to submit. But, hold on . . . check each publisher’s guidelines before you submit.

In fact, don’t just check the guidelines, you need to study them, and follow them implicitly. If a publisher asks for submission by mail only, don’t email your submission. If the word count on an article or story is up to 1000 words, don’t submit a story with 1150 words.

~~~~~~~

Karen Cioffi is a published author, freelance writer, and marketer, and to start the New Year with a BANG, from January 1 through February 28, 2012, she is offering all her writing and marketing e-books (purchased directly from her site/s using the Paypal SHOPPING CART) for a $1.19 each. And, this will include new titles added within that time period.
For a complete list of the available titles and links to more information:

http://www.karencioffiwritingandmarketing.com/2011/12/2012-writing-and-marketing-ebook.html
For a complete list (with brief descriptions of each ebook) go to:

http://www.karencioffiwritingandmarketing.com/p/karens-books.html

Karen, thank you for stopping by today and sharing with us your expertise in editing.

Wishing you all the best,
Donna

~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~
Best wishes,
Donna M. McDine
Award-winning Children's Author
The Golden Pathway ~ August 2010 ~ Guardian Angel Publishing, Inc.
http://guardianangelpublishing.com/pathway.htm

Cash Giveaways - OutnumberedMama

noreply@blogger.com (Donna M. McDine) — Sat, 07 Jan 2012 05:01:00 +0000

Are you ready to jump into 2012 with some cold hard cash? Do you have a resolution that is going to take a little bit of money or are you just in need of some spending money? What ever your reason, OutnumberedMama from The Busy Woman's Guide to Surviving Motherhood has organized an cold hard - PayPal - Cash Payday of $500 for you to Jump Start 2012. A second prize of a $50 Amazon.com eGiftCard and a third prize of a $30 Amazon eGiftCard is also up for grabs.

Welcome! I'm escatic to be part of the OutnumberedMama's Jump into 2012 with $500 cash or a $50 Amazon Gift or a $30 Amazon Gift Card! Have fun getting to know all these wonderful bloggers!

All you have to do is use the Rafflecopter below to follow, friend, like, and subscribe to the participating blogs and you are entered to win one of these great prizes. You can do all or just some of them, it's totally up to you. Remember whenever you are using a Rafflecopter it is best that you are only viewing that particular post on the blog you are using. If you are having trouble, refresh the page.

Since this prize will be awarded using PayPal and email, this giveaway is open Worldwide - if you have a PayPal and/or an email address you can win!

Giveaway Starts January 7th and ends January 31st at 11:59PM PST. Winner will be selected by using Random.org via Rafflecopter and will have 48 hours to respond to their notification email before another winner is selected.

Please visit all of the Participating Blogs:
The Busy Woman's Guide to Surviving Motherhood
Retail Therapy Lounge
Thifty Divas
Burning Moon
Travel Contests & Sweepstakes
Disney Contests & Sweepstakes
Savvy Sister Shop
As Mom Sees It
Chic Monkey Boutique
Indiana Coupon Saving & Giveaways
Sprinkle Me Pink
Finger Click Saver
My Style Spot
Peanut Butter and Whine
Unconventional Librarian
A Girl Worth Saving
Hearts Content of a Mama
Maxwell's Mommy
3 Boys and a Dog
Powered by Mom
Deal Seeking Bliss
Best Fragrances and Beauty Supplies
Simple Wyrdings
Craft Yourself
My Little House of Treasures
Tidbits from a Mom
Counting My Kisses
Bohemian Babushka
Momondealz Healthy Concepts
Libby's Library Reviews & Giveaways
Family Fun and Life
$uper $aving Momma
Money Saving Mindy
Mom on the Run
Mark Your Savings
Coupon Scribbles
Babes and Kids Review
Theresa's Mixed Nuts
Write What Inspires You! Donna McDine
The Working Writer's Club
Rants and Raves of a Crazed Mom
Madame Deals
Carol Fraser Hagen - Literacy Specialist
Punk Rock Mommy
A Family Village
Foodie Gems
Diary of a Working Mom
Debbie Does Coupons
Mompreneur Mogul

a Rafflecopter giveaway

Disclaimer: This cash was collected from each of the blogs listed in this post. There was no outside sponsorship by a major corporation. Chances of winning are dependent on the number of entries.

~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~
Best wishes,
Donna M. McDine
Award-winning Children's Author
The Golden Pathway ~ August 2010 ~ Guardian Angel Publishing, Inc.
http://guardianangelpublishing.com/pathway.htm

Discuss Quotes to Promote Literacy Development by Steve Reifman

noreply@blogger.com (Donna M. McDine) — Fri, 06 Jan 2012 05:01:00 +0000

I am delighted to host Steve Reifman today as he shares is thought provoking article, "Discuss Quotes to Promote Literacy Development." Steve will be visiting throughout the day, so please feel free to leave your comments and/or questions so he can interact with you.

"Discuss Quotes to Promote Literacy Development"
by Steve Reifman

For the past fifteen years of my teaching career, I have incorporated the use of quotes into my classroom’s morning routine to inspire my students, start the day on a positive note, and build lasting habits of character. Discussing well-known sayings brings out the best in children and helps them focus on important ideas. It is my enthusiasm for this exercise and my firm belief in its effectiveness that led me to write my new book, Changing Kids‘ Lives One Quote at a Time: 121 Inspirational Sayings to Build Character in Children.

In addition to its character-building mission, our “Quote of the Day” conversations also offer a powerful way to promote literacy. When I speak of literacy, I am referring to the specific skills of reading, writing, speaking, listening, and thinking.
In its pure form the discussion begins when a student volunteer reads the “Quote of the Day” on the board. It is critical at this time to provide approximately thirty seconds of “wait time” so each child can think about the quote, make sense of it, and perhaps even come up with an example of how the quote’s meaning applies to everyday life or connects to a habit of character.

To maximize student participation, the kids follow this “quiet think time” with a brief pair-share, in which each child has an opportunity both to express ideas and listen carefully to the partner’s thoughts. Next, a few volunteers share their interpretations of the quote’s meaning with the entire class. Finally, I close the activity by sharing some thoughts of my own. Whenever possible, I like to share a personal story that brings out the quote’s meaning in a deeper way. Storytelling is a powerful teaching strategy, and kids are likely to remember the stories and the lessons they contain for a long time.

Parents can follow the basic outline of this procedure when discussing quotes at home with their children. In addition, there are several ways that parents can modify this conversational structure to strengthen literary development.

• Put one quote per day or week in your child’s lunch and discuss the quote’s meaning after school. Reading a quote at lunchtime is a novel experience for children, and the timing provides kids with several hours to think about the quote to prepare for the evening discussion, which can take place on the ride home, at the dinner table, or at bedtime. For example, with R. Herzog’s quote, “It is better to light a candle than complain about the darkness,” it may take children a while to figure out that the saying is telling them to adopt a problem solving attitude when life’s inevitable frustrations arise, not complain about them.

• Analyze quotes for excellent word choice or interesting word play. With Rudy Benton’s quote, “7 days without exercise makes one weak,” discuss with your child how the word “weak” is spelled. The quote is not referring to a week on the calendar, but to the fact that if we don’t exercise, we will become physically weaker.

• Consider writing a quote or a set of quotes on your child’s placemat and discuss these sayings during a healthy breakfast. Over cereal and fruit, you and your child can discuss Bonnie Hopper’s quote, “The difference between ordinary and extraordinary is that little EXTRA!” Together, you can talk about how consistently giving that extra effort in school, in sports, and other endeavors can make a huge difference in the long run.

• If you’re trying to sharpen your child’s writing skills, consider using quotes for journal writing. Simply choose a quote and ask your child to respond to it using one of the prompts listed below. (More prompts are provided in Changing Kids‘ Lives One Quote at a Time.)

• Describe a time when you or someone you know demonstrated the main idea of this quote.

• What do you think this quote means? Give examples.

• Why do you think the speaker said this quote in the first place?

• Describe how you can use the meaning of this quote to help others.

• Describe how this quote can help you get along more effectively with other people.
For example, with Vince Lombardi’s quote, “If you'll not settle for anything less than your best, you will be amazed at what you can accomplish in your lives,” children may address the first prompt by describing a time when they finished a writing assignment at school and then continued to revise it to improve the story’s word choice and sentence structure, rather than put it away because they simply wanted to be done.

• Choose a quote and ask your child to say whether (s)he agrees or disagrees with its meaning and then explain why. This type of exercise builds the critical thinking skill of evaluation (the highest level on the well-known Bloom’s taxonomy) and develops persuasive speaking skills. For example, when considering John Hancock’s quote, “The greatest ability in business is to get along with others,” a child may choose to disagree and argue that knowing how to do one’s job with knowledge and skill is more important than getting along with other people. This would likely lead to a very interesting conversation.

Discussing quotes with children is a powerful, engaging way to build character in children and develop valuable literacy skills. I hope you decide to give it a try.

About Steve Reifman:

Steve Reifman is a National Board Certified elementary school teacher, author, and speaker in Santa Monica, CA. He has written several books for educators and parents, including Changing Kids’ Lives One Quote at a Time and Eight Essentials for Empowered Teaching and Learning, K-8. Steve is also the creator of the Chase Manning Mystery Series for kids 8-12. Each book in the series features a single-day, real-time thriller that occurs on an elementary school campus. For weekly Teaching Tips, blog posts, and other valuable resources and strategies on teaching the whole child, visit http://stevereifman.com/. You can follow Steve on Twitter at http://twitter.com/#!/stevereifman.

About the book:

Changing Kids’ Lives One Quote at a Time is a book for parents and teachers that contains 121inspirational sayings designed to bring out the best in children and develop lasting habits of character. Accompanying each quote is a set of “talking points” that parents and teachers can use as a reference to draw full meaning from each saying. The topic of character education has been a passion of mine since I began teaching in 1994, and I have always tried to develop great students who are also great people. In these times, when bullying poses such a serious problem in our schools and character-building efforts are so desperately needed, I feel this book has great potential to make a positive difference in our society.

Inspired? Intrigued? Both? Visit Steve Reifman at http://www.stevereifman.com/ and learn more about the book, endorsement statements, and a sample quote.

"Both the paperback version and e-book version are now available on stevereifman.com, and they will soon be available at all major online bookstores."

Steve, thank you for sharing your wonderful article with us, your background and book synopsis. It's been a true pleasure hosting you today.

Wishing you all the best,
Donna

~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~
Best wishes,
Donna M. McDine
Award-winning Children's Author
The Golden Pathway ~ August 2010 ~ Guardian Angel Publishing, Inc.
http://guardianangelpublishing.com/pathway.htm

New Year's Resolution: Writing First Thing Before Anything Else

noreply@blogger.com (Donna M. McDine) — Wed, 04 Jan 2012 17:44:00 +0000

My New Year's Resolution (I know, I know...many times we don't stick to them after the first few days, but I'm determined not to allow this to happen).

My main New Year's Resolution is to write first thing at least Monday through Friday each and every week.

After I get my writing session in, I stick to my next resolution to complete at least one marketing task for either my book, The Golden Pathway or my Author PR Services.

My third resolution is to edit at least one chapter per day of my middle grade manuscript.

I'm thrilled to share with you that even though it's only the 4th of January I'm sticking to it! Because of this, I feel much lighter and accomplished personally for the day. My afternoons will be dedicated to client work.

I will be posting a weekly check-in on Wednesday's so I hold myself accountable.

I'd like to hear what are you doing to make 2012 your best writing year ever?

I'm looking forward to your response.

Wishing you all an inspirational and productive year!

~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~
Best wishes,
Donna M. McDine
Award-winning Children's Author
The Golden Pathway ~ August 2010 ~ Guardian Angel Publishing, Inc.
http://guardianangelpublishing.com/pathway.htm

Children’s Ezine Guardian Angel Kids: Siblings – January 2012 Issue

noreply@blogger.com (Donna M. McDine) — Tue, 03 Jan 2012 19:40:00 +0000

The beginning of a new year usually brings a time of reflection on the year gone by and hopes of the new year filled with health, happiness, and success. As I get older, I conduct a mental housecleaning of simplifying my life and taking a concerted effort to enjoy the moment of the current day, instead of worrying about the "what if's", because often times the "what's if's" don't even come into play. It takes time to break the "what if" habit, try it today and focus in on your tasks of the day instead of obsessing about tomorrow. I know for myself I find myself not as drained if I focus on the here and now, instead of what I think the coming days, weeks, and months should be.

Our January 2012 theme for the month is all about siblings. Come along and reminisce about your childhood through the delightful poetry and stories in this month's issue and don't forget to share your memories with your children.

LETTER FROM THE EDITOR-IN-CHIEF: Donna M. McDine

FEATURED BOOKS:

My Sister Is My Best Friend a TRILINGUAL Flip Book by Nicole Weaver, illustrated by Clara Batton Smith

My Brother the Frog by Kevin McNamee, illustrated by Alexander Morris
CHILDREN’S POETRY, SHORT STORIES, AND ARTICLES:

“My Little Brother” by Katie (age 10) – the antics of a little brother and big sister’s frustration.
“Hailey’s Homework,” by Juliana Jones and illustrated by Jack Foster – Young Hailey is too little for homework and makes up her own assignment with unhappy results.
“Monsters and Brothers,” by Judy L. Forney and illustrated by Samantha Bell – The roller coaster ride of brothers and how they tease one another.

“Keys to Help Your Child Score Well on Standardized Tests,” by Nicole Weaver - Tips to help you prepare your child for standardized tests beyond the studying.
FEATURED DRAWING, GAMES & ACTIVITIES:

Draw and paint your brothers and sisters with Painting Board
Featured Games from Guardian Angel Publishing Books
Visit Guardian Angel Kid today and http://www.guardian-angel-kids.com/ and enjoy a child safe and ad free Ezine.

We also invite you to stay connected with Guardian Angel Kids through our Facebook Fan Page http://www.facebook.com/pages/Guardian-Angel-Kids-Ezine/163785080346247.

Please feel free to drop Editor-in-Chief, Donna McDine an email at submissions@guardian-angel-kids.com and let them know what you think of Guardian Angel Kids and what you'd like to see in the future. They aim to please.

The Guardian Angel Kids Ezine staff and contributors look forward to your visit. Thank you for your time and interest.

~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~
Best wishes,
Donna M. McDine
Award-winning Children's Author
The Golden Pathway ~ August 2010 ~ Guardian Angel Publishing, Inc.
http://guardianangelpublishing.com/pathway.htm

Happy New Year

noreply@blogger.com (Donna M. McDine) — Sun, 01 Jan 2012 05:01:00 +0000

Prayer For Strength and Wisdom

Grant me the strength from day to day

To bear what burdens come my way.

Grant me throughout this bright New Year

More to endure and less to fear.

Help me live that I may be

From spite and petty malice free.

Let me not bitterly complain

When cherished hopes of mine prove vain,

Or spoil with deeds of hate and rage

Some fair tomorrow's spotless page.

Lord, as the days shall come and go

In courage let me stronger grow.

Lord, as the New Year dawns today

Help me to put my faults away.

Let me be big in little things;

Grant me the joy which friendship brings.

Keep me from selfishness and spite;

Let me be wise in what is right.

A happy New Year! Grant that I

May bring no tear to any eye.

When this New Year in time shall end

Let it be said I've played the friend,

Have lived and loved and labored here,

And made of it a happy year.

--Edgar A. Guest

e-read me a story, Mommy - Picture books are facing tech updates by New York Daily News reporter Sherryl Connelly

noreply@blogger.com (Donna M. McDine) — Tue, 27 Dec 2011 05:01:00 +0000

In the Sunday, December 18, 2011 New York Daily News edition I read Sherryl Connelly's article "e-read me a story, Mommy" and I wanted to share with you the link to the article:

http://articles.nydailynews.com/2011-12-18/news/30532482_1_picture-books-physical-book-digital-device

Thank you for visiting.

~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~
Best wishes,
Donna M. McDine
Award-winning Children's Author
The Golden Pathway ~ August 2010 ~ Guardian Angel Publishing, Inc.
http://guardianangelpublishing.com/pathway.htm

A Christmas Creed

noreply@blogger.com (Donna M. McDine) — Sat, 24 Dec 2011 05:01:00 +0000

A Christmas Creed

I believe in Jesus Christ and in the beauty of the gospel begun in Bethlehem.

I believe in the one whose spirit glorified a little town; and whose spirit still brings music to persons all over the world, in towns both large and small.

I believe in the one for whom the crowded inn could find no room, and I confess that my heart still sometimes wants to exclude Christ from my life today.

I believe in the one who the rulers of the earth ignored and the proud could never understand; whose life was among common people, whose welcome came from persons of hungry hearts.

I believe in the one who proclaimed the love of God to be invincible:

I believe in the one whose cradle was a mother's arms, whose modest home in Nazareth had love for its only wealth, who looked at persons and made them see what God's love saw in them, who by love brought sinners back to purity, and lifted human weakness up to meet the strength of God.

I confess my ever-lasting need of God: The need of forgiveness for our selfishness and greed, the need of new life for empty souls, the need of love for hearts grown cold.

I believe in God who gives us the best of himself.

I believe in Jesus, the son of the living

God, born in Bethlehem this night, for me and for the world.

~~~~~~

http://prayer-and-prayers.info/christmas-prayers/a-christmas-creed.htm

~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~
Best wishes,
Donna M. McDine
Award-winning Children's Author
The Golden Pathway ~ August 2010 ~ Guardian Angel Publishing, Inc.
http://guardianangelpublishing.com/pathway.htm

Children’s Author, Nicole Weaver - Launches Children’s Book, My Sister Is My Best Friend – November 2011

noreply@blogger.com (Donna M. McDine) — Wed, 21 Dec 2011 05:01:00 +0000

M E D I A R E L E A S E

CONTACT: Nicole Weaver, Children’s Author

Website: http://www.mysisterismybestfriend.blogspot.com/

Email: lumiereleclaire@yahoo.com

For Immediate Release

Children’s Author, Nicole Weaver - Launches Children’s Book, My Sister Is My Best Friend – November 2011

LITTLETON, CO – Come explore the wonderful world of sisterhood both together and with mother in Nicole Weaver's latest children's book, My Sister Is My Best Friend. The playful antics of the sisters along with the vibrant illustrations brings their lives into focus. The security of knowing that neither is alone in this vast world with the companionship and love of a sister is heartwarming.

My Sister Is My Best Friend is a trilingual story told in English, Spanish, and French making for a delightful reading and learning experience. Nicole Weaver tells a story of the simplicities of enjoying one's sister with gratitude, bringing to the forefront fond childhood memories of twin sisters and their unique shared experiences.

About the Author

Nicole Weaver was born in Port-au-Prince Haiti. She came to the United States when she was ten years old. She is fluent in Creole, French, Spanish and English. She is a veteran teacher of French and Spanish. Her deep connection with family resulted in her writing and publishing, My Sister Is My Best Friend: A Trilingual Story, by Guardian Angel Publishing, November 2011. Weaver also penned the children’s trilingual picture book entitled, Marie and Her Friend the Sea Turtle. The story is about a Haitian little girl who resided by the beach in Haiti. Visit Nicole Weaver: http://mysisterismybestfriend.blogspot.com/.

Title: My Sister Is My Best Friend, a Trilingual Story

Written by: Nicole Weaver

Illustrated by: Clara Batton Smith

Soft cover: 16 pages

Ages: 4-8

Publisher: Guardian Angel Publishing, Inc. http://www.guardianangelpublishing.com/sister-best.htm

Print ISBN 13: 978-1616332099

eBook ISBN 13: 978-1616332105

Published: November 2011

###

Full Media Kit, Headshot, Book Cover Art and more are available upon request.

~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~
Best wishes,
Donna M. McDine
Award-winning Children's Author
The Golden Pathway ~ August 2010 ~ Guardian Angel Publishing, Inc.
http://guardianangelpublishing.com/pathway.htm

Writer’s Submission Guidelines: The Importance of Staying within the Parameters

noreply@blogger.com (Donna M. McDine) — Mon, 19 Dec 2011 05:01:00 +0000

Writer’s Submission Guidelines: The Importance of Staying within the Parameters

by Donna M. McDine

At a young age many of us are taught to follow directions, especially for school assignments and projects. As freelance writers it’s equally important to do so when querying or submitting a manuscript. Each publication or publishing house has their own submission guidelines that they expect the writer to read and adhere to. Said guidelines are the gateway to getting through the first step of the review process. Don’t make the assumption that most magazines follow the same guidelines, they do not. Treat each as an individual and research and learn about them before submitting.

Editors and publishers are swamped by hundreds even thousands of submissions a day and if a writer cannot follow simple submission guidelines, editors will not have the inclination to continue reading your manuscript. The lack of following guidelines, gives the impression that the writer did not do their homework by studying the magazine or catalog and reading through their submission guidelines. Therefore coming across as a writer who will not be easy to work with throughout the editing process. Another important point to make is for the freelance writer to utilize the proper chain of communication. Even if you come across the personal email for the editor or publisher in your travels through cyberspace, do not use that in your email communication. Use their business email address as indicated in their submission guidelines. Do not come across as an amateur. Keep your email professional and free of a laid back attitude.

For instance, if the submission guidelines state the word count for fiction is 500 words, stay within the count. To the average person it may not seem important, but for the freelance writer it’s imperative to do so. Even going over by a few words can mean instant rejection. Magazines work off of space requirement formats and even if your manuscript is brilliantly written they will most likely not have room for it. For example, Guardian Angel Kids Ezine http://www.guardian-angel-kids.com/submissions.htm has different word counts for different categories, so just don’t assume that because there is a 500 word count for fiction that it covers all categories.

Many magazines also follow a monthly theme or particular interests, so don’t just send off your manuscript without finding out first. What good would your baseball manuscript be for a magazine that is seeking animal manuscripts? None. It’s a complete waste of time for you and the publication. Again you will come across as not doing your research, an instant turnoff for many editors and publishers. You will also find the term requirements (i.e., “purchase all rights”), deadline for submissions, formatting instructions, email or snail mail submission, contact information, and response time within the submission guidelines. These are all provided to make the submission process and receipt of submissions smoother for both writer and publisher. Submission guidelines do change over time, so before you send off your manuscript double check the publication guidelines and cross reference that you are in compliance.

Writing the manuscript is just one aspect of a freelance writing career, research of publications and publishing houses submission guidelines is imperative to your success. Be thorough in your research and it will help guide you to forming good solid relationships with editors and publishers. Breaking into the publishing world is hard work and don’t make it more difficult by rushing through the submission process.

~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~
Best wishes,
Donna M. McDine
Award-winning Children's Author
The Golden Pathway ~ August 2010 ~ Guardian Angel Publishing, Inc.
http://guardianangelpublishing.com/pathway.htm

Writers Workshop: Dec 15 at 11 am CST - How to Enter Your Children’s Book into Award Contests Part II with Award-winning author, Donna McDine

noreply@blogger.com (Donna M. McDine) — Thu, 15 Dec 2011 05:01:00 +0000

The world of book award contests is immense and the wealth of information is overwhelming. Learn how to navigate the ever changing landscape of children’s book awards in Part II of “How to Enter Your Children’s Book into Award Contests” workshop. Mark your calendar and join us at the Working Writer’s Club on Thursday, December 15 at 11 am CST and join multi-award-winning children’s author, Donna McDine as she shares what she has learned along the way.

Her first children’s book The Golden Pathway has received numerous awards: Preditors & Editors Readers Poll 2010 Top Ten Children’s Books, Global eBook Awards Finalist Children’s Picture Book Fiction, and Literary Classics Silver Award & Seal of Approval Recipient. Don’t miss this opportunity to learn from someone in the trenches of children’s book award contests as she reveals what she has learned along the way.

Here’s the scoop on Part II of this LIVE Writer’s Workshop at the Working Writer’s Club:

Topic: How to Enter Your Children’s Book into Award Contests Part II

Date: Thursday, December 15, 11:00 a.m. CDT

Presenter: Donna McDine, Award-winning children’s author

Cost: Free for Working Writer’s Club Members

$19.97 for Non-club members (includes both sessions, you’ll also receive the November 17 Part I audio plus the Part II audio)

Not a Working Writer’s Club member? Register at the Working Writer’s Club http://www.workingwritersclub.com/events-2 and receive an email invitation to this live event, PLUS the replay the day after for Part I and II for just $19.97.

Description: In Part II of this Workshop you will learn and discover…

• Estimating how many books you need on hand

• Author copies from your publisher, negotiate with your publisher

• Determining your budget

• The importance of having a prepared hard copy media kit and website presence

• Do contests payoff in the end

Not a Working Writer’s Club member? Register at the Working Writer’s Club http://www.workingwritersclub.com/events-2 for both sessions of “How to Enter Your Children’s Book into Award Contests” and receive an email invitation to this live event, PLUS the replay the day after for just $19.97.

About Donna McDine:

Donna McDine is an award-winning children's author, Honorable Mention in the 77th and two Honorable Mentions in the 78th Annual Writer’s Digest Writing Competitions, Preditors & Editors Readers Poll 2010 Top Ten Children’s Books, Global eBook Awards Finalist Children’s Picture Book Fiction, and Literary Classics Silver Award & Seal of Approval Recipient Picture Book Early Reader ~ The Golden Pathway.

Her stories, articles, and book reviews have been published in over 100 print and online publications. Her interest in American History resulted in writing and publishing The Golden Pathway. Donna has three more books under contract with Guardian Angel Publishing, Hockey Agony, Powder Monkey, and A Sandy Grave. She writes, moms and is the Editor-in-Chief for Guardian Angel Kids, Publicist for the Working Writer’s Club and owner of Author PR Services from her home in the historical hamlet Tappan, NY. McDine is a member of the SCBWI.

Visit the Working Writer’s Club, and become a Facebook Fan today at http://www.facebook.com/home.php#!/pages/The-Working-Writers-Club/221038321276421. By becoming a Facebook Fan it will ensure that you are updated on all of the valuable resources and articles at The Working Writer’s Club.

~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~
Best wishes,
Donna M. McDine
Award-winning Children's Author
The Golden Pathway ~ August 2010 ~ Guardian Angel Publishing, Inc.
http://guardianangelpublishing.com/pathway.htm

Children's Book Contest and Interview: While the Giant is Sleeping

noreply@blogger.com (Donna M. McDine) — Wed, 14 Dec 2011 05:01:00 +0000

TITLE: While the Giant Is Sleeping

AUTHOR: Alycia Holston

ILLUSTRATOR: Suzi Stranahan

WEBSITE: http://www.calmcreations.com/

FACEBOOK: www.facebook.com/whilethegiantissleeping

EMAIL: calmcreations@live.com
I am pleased to host today, author Alycia Holston and illustrator Suzi Stranahan through their duel interview. Come along for this wonderful peek into their writing and illustrating processes. At the end of their interview there is contest information for you to enter at a chance to win a FREE copy of While the Giant is Sleeping.

INTERVIEW WITH ALYCIA HOLSTON:

Tell us a little about your background and how you became interested in writing children’s books.

My background is quite varied, actually. I began college with the intention of becoming a teacher. I finished with a degree in geography. Before graduating, my husband and I got married, so upon graduation, the job that was offered to me with the benefit of medical was too good to pass up. I worked my way up through a retail chain to a training manager…I was finally teaching. This is also where my writing career began—training manuals, that is. During this time, we began attending church and I became a Christian. When the Lord blessed us later in our marriage with a pregnancy, I was called to be a stay-at-home Mother. This began my career of reading books. There is such joy in reading a child a book, seeing the light bulb turn on when they understand part of it or see their smile as they enjoy the story. I began to desire to be a part of that and hopefully have something that my children could read someday.
Tell us about getting your mind in a creative mode? How do you begin your writing process?

I think the creative part of my brain is always working. I make notes all over the place. I find little slips of paper tucked in pockets, purses, drawers and notebooks. I am fairly new to the actual process of writing. I sit down, say a little prayer, take some deep breathes and attempt to focus. I usually have to read what was written before and then add to it as much as I can.
What was your inspiration for While the Giant is Sleeping?
I spent 38 years as a mid-westerner, so moving to the mountains was a real switch for me and the family. We had a fairly traumatic move…the house we were renting sold soon after we arrived and we had to stay in a shoebox duplex while we waited for our current home to be built. This meant three moves in less than six months but the one constant was always the Sleeping Giant. I would make up stories each day about what was happening to him and around him. I encourage my children to always look at the world around them, the world that the Lord created for them and appreciate the beauty in all of it. There’s so much to learn from simply looking out our windows.

Many writers utilize a writing group. Where do you get constructive critiques and feedback?
I have been blessed with very smart friends! My husband gets the first look at everything I do and is always constructive and encouraging. I have two people that are proofreaders and that help me develop my ideas. I also attend an online group through CrossRiver Media Group. The most important thing is to be open to criticism and not be married to your original train of thought.
What was the hardest thing about writing the book?

Getting my idea from my head to the paper. Once I found a publisher that understood my vision for the book, there was more editing, collaboration and compromising. I would say the absolute hardest part, though, was the waiting. I was not able to make a list and know when it would be done. There is so much out of your control, even to the point of our release date. It was the most incredible exercise in patience I’ve been faced with—and I have three children!!

Now that While the Giant is Sleeping is out in bookstores, do you have any projects that you're currently working on?
I have several but nothing that’s actually developed well yet. The main thing that I’ve been working on since the end of May is marketing. I really like getting out, reading the book and selling it. It’s so fun to see it in the stores and it is doing very well. My goal is to focus more on writing after the first of the year and pick the marketing back up in the spring.
When you're not writing, what do you enjoy doing?

I really enjoy cooking. I know it sounds like work but it relaxes me to read magazines and cookbooks in search of a new recipe for my family. I also like to shop antique and thrift stores. It’s my own personal form of treasure hunting.

Where can readers find your book?

While the Giant is Sleeping is available online through our website http://www.calmcreations.com/, my publisher’s website http://www.crossrivermedia.com/ or through Amazon. Several stores in the Helena, Mont., area also carry it.

INTERVIEW WITH SUZI STRANAHAN
Tell us a little about your background and how you became interested in illustrating children’s books.
As long as I can remember, I have loved art! My art teacher in high school inspired me to pursue my creative passion in college. I finished with a fine art degree in graphic design and textile design. During college I learned about different illustration styles and I have always thought I would enjoy illustrating. Following college I worked for a catalog company for 5 years which strengthened my knowledge of the print industry. That enabled me to pursue my illustrating dreams.

How do you go about finding the inspiration for your drawings?

I spent a lot of time driving around the Sleeping Giant and take pictures of the surrounding landscape. I fell in love with the beautiful colors! Inspiration was easy to come by. I captured as many as 1000 photos during the whole process. I learned what angle the sun had to be in for the mountain to look the most beautiful. I got the best pictures during sunrises and sunsets.
What materials did you use for your drawings, what was the process and how long did it take you to do everything from start to finish?

I used chalk pastels because I wanted to capture rich, vibrant colors. I started each illustration with photography research then sketched out the image on artist paper. Each illustration is roughly 27 in. x 12 in. After I finished the hand drawing with the chalk pastels, I had them professional photographed. Then I did an extensive amount of Photoshop work cleaning up the images and adjusting the colors. I spent approximately 60 to 80 hours per image, with a total of 16 images. I ended up redrawing six of the images. The whole process took about nine months.

Now that While the Giant is Sleeping is out in bookstores, do you have any projects that you're currently working on?

I am taking a break from illustrating, but I am working on some new design projects. My current focus now is learning more about web design.

When you're not drawing, what do you enjoy doing?

I have so many interests and passions. I love spending time with my wonderful family, being outdoors, camping, running, cooking, gardening, to name a few. I am a lover of life and enjoy learning and growing.

Contest information:

Alycia and Suzi would like to invite you to visit http://www.calmcreations.com/ and leave them a message about what their favorite winter scene is in the book and what it is about that image that they enjoy. The images are available for view on the website. Each reader who leaves a comment along with their email address will receive one entry into a drawing for a free book. The winner will be drawn randomly from all of the commenter’s on the blog from now until Dec. 16th.

Alycia and Suzi, it's been a pleasure hosting you today.

Wishing you all the best!

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Best wishes,
Donna M. McDine
Award-winning Children's Author
The Golden Pathway ~ August 2010 ~ Guardian Angel Publishing, Inc.
http://guardianangelpublishing.com/pathway.htm