Connie Arnold , Children's Author

Winter Months

2012-01-13T13:40:00.000-08:00

Near the end of December winter begins –

Brr! It is getting quite cold.

The temperature drops (as leaves already have),

And the year is growing quite old.

Through January winter continues –

Brrr! It is really cold now.

There sometimes is snow, maybe sleet and ice;

We go as the weather will allow.

Winter remains through February –

Brrr! Days are of the coldest sort.

We seldom will want to be outside,

But at least this month is short.

In March the end of winter arrives –

Ahh! Now that’s not so bad.

Life is returning to growing things;

The flowers and warmth make me glad!

© Connie Arnold

Winter is good for snowmen, but not for me. I'm always ready for spring and warmer weather to arrive. Do you like winter?

Sweet Christmas Stories

2011-12-16T15:15:00.000-08:00

Dixie Phillips is a talented author who has written several children's books that are lovely, entertaining, and provide valuable lessons for children about Jesus. Two of them are especially appropriate for this time of year.

One of these sweet stories is Baby Jesus is Missing! It is the story of a boy who discovers that baby Jesus is missing from the manger scene in his home. He is understandably upset because, after all, what is Christmas without Jesus? His parents, however, are too caught up in trying to win a Christmas decoration contest to pay attention. It takes the love and simple faith of a child to help them realize the true meaning of Christmas. The lovely illustrations by K.C. Snider add a special touch to the story as well.

Angel eyes is the story of Jesus coming to earth at Christmas as seen by two young angels. It is told in a creative and imaginative way that will capture children's attention and help them learn about the Christmas story and the life of Jesus and what it means, not only to the whole world, but to them as well. The bright, sweet illustrations by Kim Sponaugle help draw the reader in along with the story.

These books are both published by Guardian Angel Publishing and are available from there and Amazon - Baby Jesus is Missing and Angel Eyes. Read more from Dixie on her blog, "From the Heart of Dixie."

Sharing books like these with children is a great way to help them learn what Christmas is really about. May we regain a childlike faith as shown in these stories, and rejoice in the special blessing that Christmas brings.

Gunther, the Underwater Elephant

2011-12-10T17:36:00.000-08:00

Doesn't that name grab your attention? And look at that sweet little elephant floating under the water! Ginger Neilson has written and illustrated an adorable children's book about a small elephant named Gunther who discovers he can float and swim underwater, holding his trunk up like a snorkel to breathe. He has been playing with his bigger cousins, and when they are distracted he floats away. Gunther is pleasantly surprised at how he can swim and breathe, and also at all he sees under the water as he floats along. Children will be delighted along with Gunther as they enjoy the beautifully illustrated, colorful pages of undersea scenes.

When night comes, Gunther falls asleep and wakes up washed up on what seems to be an island, surrounded by water. He is feeling frightened and alone until he meets a surprising new friend, who comes to his aid and leads him on a new adventure.

Gunther, the Underwater Elephant is filled with page after page of lovely underwater areas and creatures that will capture children's imaginations along with the creative story. And although it is a fun story, it also has a couple of important lessons to impart.

Published by 4RV Publishing, Gunther, the Underwater Elephant is also available from Amazon. You can visit Ginger at her blog.

My Sister is My Best Friend

2011-12-02T08:12:00.000-08:00

Do you have a sister? I do, and although we live far apart, we remain close friends and talk or email often.

Author Nicole Weaver has sisters and has written a lovely book about two sisters who are also best friends. It's a sweet story about twins girls who enjoy doing things together. They do the types of fun things that young girls like to do, such as play with dolls and their dog, ride on a seesaw, and help their mother with the flower garden. The best thing about what they are doing is that they are spending time with each other. Although children sometimes have disagreements and fight with each other, this story focuses on the positive aspects of being sisters and friends. The bright illustrations by Clara Batton Smith display the colorful clothing and the girls' surroundings in a pleasing and attractive way.

An added bonus to this book is that each page is written in three languages. The first is English, then the same thing is repeated it Spanish and again in French. It's an excellent opportunity to be exposed to different languages and learn new words, for children and adults as well.

My Sister is My Best Friend is available from Guardian Angel Publishing and Amazon. You can learn more about Nicole on her website and visit her blog, Melange of Cultures.

Please feel free to share about your siblings and your relationship with them!

Ferdinand Frog's Flight

2011-11-26T10:52:00.000-08:00

Since I enjoy rhymes so much and like reading rhyming books to my grandsons, I was delighted to be offered the opportunity to review a new picture book written by Marvin Mayer, illustrated by Stephen Macquignon and published by 4RV Publishing. Ferdinand Frog's Flight fills all the qualifications of what I'm looking for in a fun picture book!

Ferdinand is a sad frog. He doesn't like having to stay on the ground but has always wanted to fly. He is jealous of birds, who can soar above the trees. Although the birds try to convince Ferdinand that frogs belong on the ground and that things are not always fun for them, he remains unconvinced. When Ferdinand meets a helpful eagle, it appears his wish will come true. He is in for a surprise when he takes the big leap.

The flowing rhythm, catchy rhymes and expressive illustrations are added attractions to this delightful tale that soars with anticipation and suspense. Children can relate to Ferdinand with his dream and learn along with him on his adventure.

Ferdinand Frog's Flight can be purchased from 4RV or Amazon.

Don't you agree this is a fun book for young children? The bonus is that it's also fun to read!

The Giving Meadow

2011-11-16T18:12:00.000-08:00

The Giving Meadow by Stephanie Burkhart is an adorable book about the cute little caterpillar shown on the cover above. Now, I'm not a big fan of bugs, in fact I tend to take off in the opposite direction when I see one. But look at that sweet face! There is nothing disgusting about this bug, and the story is as friendly as the caterpillar is.

This new little fellow has emerged from his egg hungry and hunting something to eat. He makes his way across a meadow, looking for something to eat each day since he is growing rapidly and getting hungrier and hungrier. As he inches along, the caterpillar encounters several different creatures and requests something to eat each time. None of them has much food but all have a generous spirit. He fills his tummy and makes new friends until one day he disappears into a cocoon.

Children will be drawn into the suspense and the surprise along with the caterpillar's friends, waiting to see what happens to him as they enjoy the bright and colorful illustrations by Stephen Macquignon along the way.

Often children are fascinated by insects, especially ones like this little fellow who has such a transforming experience! This is a good book for helping young children learn about how caterpillars change as well as a gentle lesson about sharing and caring.

The Giving Meadow is available from 4RV Publishing and Amazon. You can learn more about Stephanie and her books on her website.

November is Picture Book Month

2011-11-07T13:50:00.000-08:00

November is Picture Book Month, a time to celebrate picture books and their importance in a child's life. Since this is the 11th month, I'd like to share with you recommendations for 11 children's books, with links to my review of each book and to the author's and artist's sites. First though, I'd like to share a poem with you!

Reading a book to a child is great fun,

a short one, a long one,

a rhyming, sing-song one,

one that has colorful, nice pictures, too

of animals, scenery,

earth, sky or sea,

to offer enjoyment to your child and you!

No More Gunk by Donna Shepherd

illustrated by Kevin Scott Collier

Signs of Trouble by Janet Ann Collins

illustrated by Jack Foster

Horatio Humble Beats the Big D by Margot Finke
illustrated by Ellen Gurak

Klutzy Kantor by J. Aday Kennedy
illustrated by Jack Foster

A Wish and a Prayer by Beth Bence Reinke
illustrated by Ginger Nielson

Sh Sh Sh Let the Baby Sleep by Kathy Stemke
illustrated by Jack Foster

Mr. Topper, the Potbellied Pig by Liam Maher
illustrated by Vanda Lavar

Where is Salami by Donna J. Shepherd
illustrated by Jack Foster

Trouble on Earth Day by Kathy Stemke

I Spy a Dragonfly by Carla Burke

And for the 11th picture book on the list, I couldn't forget
Animal Sound Mix-up by Connie Arnold
illustrated by Kit Grady

Many more quality children's picture books can be found at Guardian Angel Publishing, 4RV Publishing, and Amazon.

Hope you find many opportunities to read picture books with a child this month and every month! What do you think are some of the advantages of sharing picture books with children at an early age?

Trouble on Earth Day

2011-10-03T11:39:00.000-07:00

Author Kathy Stemke's new book, Trouble on Earth Day, has just been released It's a great way to help children learn about recycling and conserving the Earth's natural resources.

The story begins as Shelby the squirrel comes home excitedly waving a first place ribbon she won in the Earth Day poster contest. She told her parents that the poster was to remind people to help the earth by finding ways to recycle. They began searching for things they had which could be reused in some way.

Shelby hears crying outside and follows the sound to a small bluebird, who needs to find materials to make a new nest after losing his. This provides a great opportunity for Shelby to recycle some things her family has found and help out her new friend.

This colorful and beautifully illustrated book also includes activities, a song, game, things to make using recycled items, and information about Earth Day. It is a wonderful tool for teaching about environmental responsibility in a fun way.

Kathy’s first children’s picture book, Moving Through All Seven Days, was published on Lulu. Her next two picture books, Sh, Sh, Sh Let the Baby Sleep, published by Guardian Angel Publishing, and Trouble on Earth Day, from Wild Plains Press, were released in 2011. Visit her book blog at http://shshshletthebabysleep.blogspot.com

Mrs.Stemke offers great teaching tips and children’s book reviews as well as a monthly newsletter titled, MOVEMENT AND RHYTHM, on her blog. http://educationtipster.blogspot.com

Trouble on Earth Day is available from Amazon and Author's Den.

Exercise is Cool!

2011-08-29T12:28:00.000-07:00

Run so fast,

have a blast,

skip and jump and play.

Have some fun

in the sun,

get moving every day.

Kick a ball,

big or small,

throw it to a friend.

Move around,

touch the ground,

stretch and twist and bend.

Ride a bike,

take a hike,

jump into a pool.

Swing and slide,

play outside,

exercise is cool!

Connie Arnold, 2011

www.childrenbooks.webs.com

Summer is nearing an end and schools are starting up again. We still need to encourage children to get exercise, stressing the fun in it while keeping their bodies healthy.

Hope you enjoy this little poem and the photos of my grandsons having fun and getting exercise! If you'd like to read another poem I shared earlier with this same theme, see Get Moving!

What are some of your favorite active children's games?

National Book Lovers Day

2011-08-09T11:48:00.000-07:00

August 9 is National Book Lovers Day. I think we should extend that and make it at least Book Lovers Week, or maybe have August be Book Lovers Month! What do you think?

There definitely should be time set aside for children to read if they can, or be read to if they are too young to read, each day. It's so important for children to develop that love of reading when they are young.

Take time to read some books today,
a restful break from work and play.
Books are great for learning and fun,
so be a book lover and grab a good one!

Fun with Animal Sounds

2011-06-30T08:42:00.000-07:00

Hope you enjoy the fun of the mixed up animals!

Congratulations to Rena, the winner of a copy of A Wish and a Prayer by Beth Reinke from my previous post.

If you know of a little one who would enjoy it, Animal Sound Mix-up is available from Guardian Angel Publishing, Amazon or an autographed copy from my website.

A Wish and a Prayer

2011-06-22T05:33:00.000-07:00

A Wish and a Prayer by Beth Reinke is the story of Jason, a boy whose pet parakeet, Sonny, flies out his window after being startled by a siren from an ambulance speeding down the street. Jason is upset about the loss of his little friend and wants to get him back. His friends encourage him with different ways to make a wish, including tossing a penny in a fountain and wishing on a star. He tries these wishes for a week, but Sonny doesn't return. Jason's mother asks him who hears his wishes, and what is the difference between a wish and a prayer. This causes Jason to do some serious thinking and realize that wishes are made on objects that can't hear or act, but prayers are heard by God, who has the power to answer those prayers. This lovely book, beautifully illustrated by Ginger Nielson, provides a valuable lesson to children about the importance of prayer.

Beth is also the author of In My Bath, a cute story about a child's imaginative play in the bathtub, also illustrated by Ginger Nielson. Her newest book is Carla's Cloud Catastrophe, which releases this summer. All three books are published by 4RV Publishing. You can find Beth's books at 4RV Publishing

(A Wish and a Prayer is on page 4)

Visit Beth on her website www.bethbencereinke.com and Ginger at www.gingernielson.com

Beth will be giving away a copy of A Wish and a Prayer and a sheet of 12 stickers with illustrations from the book, designed by Ginger. Leave a comment to enter, tweet about this post or share on facebook and let us know for extra entries! The contest is open to US residents only.

Brother Sister Poetry

2011-06-16T04:52:00.000-07:00

It is my pleasure to share this post for Day 4 of Kathy Stemke's Book Tour for her new picture book, Sh Sh Sh Let the Baby Sleep, published by Guardian Angel Publishing. Be sure to visit Kathy's blog to learn more about her tour and some exciting contests and prizes. Remember to leave a comment to enter the prize drawings! Here is my review of the book, followed by Kathy's poems and more information about her.

In Sh Sh Sh Let the Baby Sleep, Kathy Stemke tells a story that children, especially those who have younger siblings, can relate to. Zachary's life takes a drastic change when a baby sister enters it. He puts on his special glasses and uses his creative imagination to become a superhero and quiet all the wild and noisy commotions that disturb her sleep. Each page of this delightful book is filled with bold, colorful illustrations by Jack Foster and has cute rhymes, which add to the fun. As an added bonus, there are games, word puzzles, a song, and rhymes at the end of the book. It's a great book for home and the classroom.

Brother and Sister Poems

Author, Kathy Stemke, and illustrator, Jack Foster, team up to bring Sh Sh Sh Let the Baby Sleep to life. Kathy includes adorable rhymes for each consonant blend that’s featured in the book; sh, br, th, ch, and gr.

This darling story illuminates the love between brothers and sisters as Zachary learns to accept this new member of his family.

Here are some poems which express the special love found only between siblings.

My Sister, Layla

I'm really glad now that we're part
of the same family
You probably know I wasn't so at first.
I guess I was just afraid...

Afraid that there wasn't enough room
for both of us in the same family...
Afraid that I would be forgotten or
loved a little less than before you came along.

But somehow we've managed to weather all that
and grow closer too.
Now I realize how much
you've added to this family...
How much you've added to my life.

I just want to thank you
for being such a loving,
kind and patient sister….Layla.

Brothers and Sisters

As Kids, We Lived Together
We Fought, We Laughed, We Cried
We Did Not Always Show The Love
That We Both Felt Inside
We Shared Our Dreams And Plans
And Some Secrets Too
All The Memories We Share
Is What Bonds Me Now To You
We Grew To Find We Have A Love
That Is Very Strong Today
It's A Love Shared By Our Family
That Will Never Fade Away
You Are My Sister Not By Choice
But By Nature Of Our Birth
I Could Not Have Chosen A Better One
You Are The Best On Earth!

My Special Sister

I served the cake, you poured the tea
We built a house under the tree
In grown up clothes we played all parts
Secrets told, we crossed our hearts

Through all the years, the smiles and tears
First true loves ... and football cheers
I’ve never found a friend so true
I’ll love you Sis, my whole life through.

Can you think of any brother and sister poems? Can you make one up?

Kathy Stemke has a passion for writing, the arts and all things creative. She has Bachelor degrees from Southern Connecticut State University and Covenant Life Seminary, as well as graduate coursework from New York Institute of Technology and Columbia University. Hanging her hat in the North Georgia Mountains, she has been a teacher, tutor, and writer for many years.

As a freelance writer and ghostwriter, Kathy has published hundreds of articles in directories, websites and magazines. She is a contributing editor for The National Writing for Children's Center http://writingforchildrencenter.com/ and a reviewer for Sylvan Dell Publishing. As a retired teacher, Kathy has several activities published with Gryphon House Publishing. Kathy is also part of the team at DKV Writing 4 U. http://www.dkvwriting4u.com

Kathy’s first children’s picture book, Moving Through All Seven Days, was published on Lulu. Her next picture book, Sh, Sh, Sh Let the Baby Sleep, was released in May of 2011. Her third picture book, Trouble on Earth Day is scheduled for release in June of 2011.

Mrs. Stemke offers great teaching tips and children’s book reviews as well as a monthly newsletter titled, MOVEMENT AND RHYTHM, on her blog, http://educationtipster.blogspot.com

Be sure to visit Kathy's blog to learn more about the tour and the contests.

SUPERHERO TRIVIA QUESTION: DAY 4

Which comic character is big, green and you would not want to make him angry?

SUPERHERO TRIVIA ANSWER: DAY 3

What is the real name of The Atom?

ANSWER: Ray Palmer. With a Doctorate in Physics, Ray Palmer harnessed the power of a fragment of a white dwarf star by exposing it to ultraviolet light frequencies. He can shrink himself and clothing to microscopic size. He can shrink to 6 inches while keeping his weight at 180 lbs. This makes him super-dense and able to pack quite a wallop to his foes.

Remember; Every answer or comment you make during this book tour puts your name in the hat for a fantastic prize, which includes amazon gift certificates, books, superhero figurines, and much more.

Sh Sh Sh Let the Baby Sleep can be found:

Guardian Angel Publishing

Amazon

Barnes and Noble

Where is Salami?

2011-06-09T05:50:00.000-07:00

My friend, Donna Shepherd, is the author of many delightful picture books. A new one has recently been published by Guardian Angel Publishing, Where is Salami? It is another fun book done in rhyme that Donna does so well, and is filled with Jack Foster's energetic and expressive illustrations. The little boy telling the story can't understand why his sister, Beth, keeps getting so excited. Just because his pet snake, Salami, is loose in the house! She may very well have more reasons than that to be excited since there seems to be a mouse, spider and various other pets slipping around the house and adding to Beth's fright. As if the adorable rhymes, dynamic illustrations and various pets weren't enough to keep a child's interest, there is also a hidden picture on each page to be discovered.

Among the places Where is Salami? can be found are Guardian Angel Publishing, Amazon, Barnes & Noble. You can visit Donna at Topsy Turvy Land and be sure to check out the video of her many fun books. Jack Foster's great art can be viewed at Jacktoons.

If you would be interested in reading a recent interview I did, please feel free to pop over to Write What Inspires You after you leave a comment for Donna here!

Lenny Lee Fest

2011-06-03T05:11:00.000-07:00

My post today is to honor a special young blogging friend, Lenny Lee of Lenny's World. I'm joining with many other blogging friends to spread Lenny Lee sunshine. He's a terrific kid, and I hope you will hop over and visit his blog when you get a chance. You'll be glad you did!

Lenny Lee is a friend of mine

who loves to blog and write.

It's always fun to visit him

at his sunny, cheerful site.

Lenny's posts are really cool,

informative and well done.

You should visit him today,

read his posts and enjoy each one.

It's great to get a comment

from my bloggy friend, Lenny Lee.

God bless you always, Lenny,

you are very special to me!

I'm sure Lenny would love to hear from you if you'd care to leave a comment. That's how I met him, and he faithfully visits my blog and leaves comments that warm my heart. Thank you, Lenny, for the sunshine you spread. You are much loved and appreciated by so many!

Here's looking at you, Lenny. Hugs!

Animal Fun Trivia

2011-05-17T16:11:00.000-07:00

Since my children's book, Animal Sound Mix-up, is about animals and the sounds they make getting mixed up, I thought it would be fun to see what kind of animal trivia I could discover and share with you. Here are a few I didn't know about, did you? The illustrations are by Kit Grady and can be found in Animal Sound Mix-up.

Illustration © Kit Grady

Cats have over one hundred vocal sounds, dogs only have about ten.
Roosters can't crow unless they can fully extend their necks.
A duck's quack doesn't echo.
A dolphin's hearing is so acute it can pick up underwater sounds from fifteen miles away.
Crickets hear through their knees.
Giraffes don't have vocal cords. (I'm glad to know that one since no one I've asked has been able to come up with the sound a giraffe makes!)

Illustration © Kit Grady

The fingerprints of koala bears are almost indistinguishable from those of humans, enough that they could be confused at a crime scene.
The bottom of a horse's hoof is called a frog.
A donkey's eyes are placed in its head so that it can see all four feet at all times.

Illustration © Kit Grady

Camels have three eyelids for protection from blowing sand.
Kiwi birds are blind and hunt by smell.
When opossums are playing opossum, they aren't "playing" but actually pass out from sheer terror.
An elephant can be pregnant for up to two years. Elephants walk on tip-toe because the back part of their feet is made up of all fat and has no bones.

Illustration © Kit Grady

The giant squid has the largest eyes in the world.
The bones of a pigeon weigh less than its feathers.
Camel hair brushes are made from squirrel hair.
Bees have to collect nectar from 2,000 flowers to make one tablespoonful of honey.

You can read these and many other bits of animal trivia on Animal Trivia and Useless Facts.

I don't think the animals in Animal Sound Mix-up know these facts either. They can't even get the sounds they make right! Do you know any other interesting animal facts?

Mr. Topper and Golden Daffodils

2011-05-14T08:40:00.000-07:00

Today I'd like to share with you about two delightful new children's books by Liam Maher, published by Guardian Angel Publishing.

Mr. Topper is a pot-bellied pig who is looking for someone to give him a good home and take care of him. He meets several people, telling each one, "If you give me a good home, pet and pamper me, and feed me whenever I go Oink!Oink! you shall have lots of very good luck.” Now, this seems rather hard to believe, and not surprisingly, people don't believe Mr. Topper. Just when he is wondering if there are any kind people in the world, his luck begins to change. Can his promise of good luck come true? Vanda Lavar provides the fun, colorful illustrations on the cover and in the book.

Paddy, the gardener, grows some beautiful golden daffodils in his garden. He is wondering if they could win first prize in the Spring Garden Show. His friend, a little bird named Tupo Hoopoe, wants to help her dear friend win first prize for his daffodils. She spots a fairy as she drops a bag which spills some shimmering gold dust. Tupo gathers up the spilled fairy dust and sprinkles it on Paddy's daffodils. The flowers turn a beautiful golden shade that Tupo is sure will cause them to win the prize. But it's not that simple. The morning of the show the golden daffodils are gone, vanished! The adventures begin as Tupo tries to find them. Will Tupo be able to find the daffodils in time? Will Paddy win first prize? The cover art and illustrations are beautifully done by Marina Movshina.

Mr. Topper, the Potbellied Pig and Golden Daffodils are available from Guardian Angel Publishing and Amazon. They are recommended for ages 4-8.

Watching the Animals

2011-05-05T10:40:00.000-07:00

     Do you like visiting the zoo? If you have children, I'm sure you do that when you can. I don't think we ever outgrow the pleasure of watching animals though. When we get to take our grandchildren to the zoo, it's fun to not only watch the animals, but also to watch the children enjoying the animals!

     Hope you enjoy my little poem. If you'd like to read more, please visit my children's website and the poetry for children's page of my inspirational website.

     Which are your favorite animals?

A monkey was playing in a tree,

Swinging from limb to limb.

The things he did were fun to see,

And I liked watching him.

A mighty lion was lying around,

Resting out in the sun,

Then giving a roar, got off the ground

And suddenly started to run.

An elephant who was big and gray

Lifted her trunk up high,

Wanting others to keep away

Since her baby was sleeping nearby.

I like the animals, large and small,

And you can enjoy them too,

Together where you can see them all

Whenever you visit the zoo.

© Connie Arnold

Easter Gift

2011-04-22T06:30:00.000-07:00

Remember Easter’s not just about bunnies

and the colored eggs they hide,

or the pretty Easter baskets

with plenty of treats inside,

a day for families being together
with fun for each girl and boy,

but there is a very special reason

for so much Easter joy.

Jesus, God’s son, came from Heaven

where He had lived before,

died because of all the sin,

then rose to life once more.

That’s the reason for Easter joy,

the gift God sent from above,
the gift of life that Jesus gives

and the wonderful gift of love.

Connie Arnold, 2011

Happy Easter!

Klutzy Kantor Fun with J. Aday Kennedy

2011-04-15T19:30:00.000-07:00

It's my pleasure to share with you a little about author J. Aday Kennedy and Klutzy Kantor, the star of one of her children's books, and his theme song, "Go Me!"

Aday describes herself as a "differently-abled" writer and speaker. Being a ventilator dependent quadriplegic doesn't stop her from being an accomplished author, motivational and inspirational speaker, and a whiz at creative marketing ideas, which she shares with other authors. I never cease to be amazed at what she can accomplish and her quick wit and wonderful sense of humor.

That great sense of humor is evident in Klutzy Kantor, a fun story about a clumsy flying horse who is, as you might guess, a complete klutz! He is also quite clever and must come up with the answer to a riddle to get a leprechaun to grant his wish to stop being so clumsy. Klutzy, like his author, teaches a good lesson about dealing with life's challenges. Delightful and colorful illustrations by Jack Foster add to the great appeal of this book, which is published by Guardian Angel Publishing.

You can visit to learn more about Aday's writing and books on her website and blog.

Here is a video for your enjoyment featuring Klutzy Kantor and his song, followed by a dance activity. Have fun!

Make video montages at www.OneTrueMedia.com

Story Time Stomp Activity
Divide the students into three groups.
¨ Group 1 – Begin chanting the rhyme and snapping their fingers on each syllable.
¨ Group 2 – Begin chanting after Group 1 completes the first sentence then group 2 can begin to chant and clap each syllable.
¨ Group 3 – Begin chanting after Group 2 completes the first sentence then group 3 can begin to chant and stomp each syllable.

Do you have ants in your pants?
Do the Klutzy Kantor dance.
Come along and follow me,
But watch out for that big tree.
It’s the Klutzy Kantor beat.
My hooves are like four left feet.
I fly and splat into trees.
Clap your hands and stomp your feet
It’s the Klutzy Kantor beat.
Clap your hands and stomp your feet
It’s the Klutzy Kantor beat.
Clap your hands and stomp your feet
It’s the Klutzy Kantor beat.

Interview with Author Margot Finke

2011-04-08T16:26:00.000-07:00

I'm pleased to share with you an interview with a special lady, Margot Finke. She is the author of many great books for children, including her two recent releases, Horatio Humble Beats the Big D and Taconi and Claude - Double Trouble.

Margot Finke is an Aussie transplant who writes midgrade adventure fiction and rhyming picture books. For many years she has lived in Oregon with her husband and family. Gardening, travel, and reading fill in the cracks between writing. Her husband is very supportive, though not interested in children's books . Their three children are now grown and doing very well.

Margot didn't begin serious writing until the day their youngest left for college. This late start drives her writing, and pushes her to work at it every day. Margot said, "I really envy those who began young, and managed to slip into writing mode between kid fights, diaper changes, household disasters, and outside jobs. You are my heroes! "

Margot, how long have you been writing for children, and what encouraged you to begin doing so?

I have always written “stuff,” but it was my stint as a teacher’s aide that encouraged me write down the stories I told the different classes about Australia, and their weird and wonderful animals. However, it wasn’t until our youngest went off to college that I buckled down and became a serious writer.

When we first arrived in Oregon from Australia, I didn’t want our children to forget their Down-under heritage. I put a map showing Aussie animals on our kid’s bedroom wall. Every night I told them a story about a different critter. These are the stories I told the school kids too, only sometimes I changed them around, and the children noticed the different endings. A teacher suggested I write them down. I did, and they became my “Wild and Wonderful” series: 7 rhyming picture books about animals from the US and Australia.

Those sound like some fun and exciting stories, Margot! You have several books published by Guardian Angel Publishing. Would you tell us a little about these and your reasons for writing them?

My two latest rhyming picture books, Horatio Humble Beats the Big D, and Ruthie and the Hippo’s Fat Behind, have sneaky hidden agendas. They were both born due to what I learned as a teacher’s aide.

Many kids suffer deeply due to big changes in their lives. Changes they have no control over: like a death, a divorce, a move far from friends and family etc. “Ruthie” is such a child, and she reacts with snotty behavior and tantrums her parent find hard to manage. Finally, something wonderful happens to change her back to a sweet and loving girl. Kid friendly and fun to read, the parent/teacher guide offers a helpful Q and A plus links to more serious help.

It seems that Dyslexia and other learning problems beset many of today’s children – especially boys. “Horatio Humble” is a smart boy, yet he can’t read. He thinks going to Special Ed classes will brand him dumb. However, go he does, with amazing results. The story encourages these kids that they CAN learn to read. The parent-teacher guide suggests early diagnosis + links to helpful websites and advice.

Like a lot of boys these days, my son was a reluctant reader. This prompted me to write books with a WOW factor that grab their attention. I wrote “Taconi and Claude– Double Trouble“ with boys (and tomboys) in mind. Plenty of action, fast pace, an Aussie outback setting, + the surprise and mystery of an aboriginal tribe and its Dreamtime beliefs. This historical novel, set in the early 1950’s, would make a great home school or class history project using the help in my Teacher’s Guide:
http://mysite.ncnetwork.net/mfinke/Teacher%27s%20Guide.htm#teach
I also include a glossary of fun and interesting Aussie sayings, words and names.

It's a wonderful thing to encourage children to read and enjoy books. Do you think it will make it easier for them with the growing popularity of e-books?

I think anything that encourages children to quit watching junk TV, and playing mindless and often violent computer games, is absolutely wonderful! And kids today are computer savvy – unlike many of their parents. They jump at the chance of books read on an eReader, PC or laptop. These books are cheaper, greener, and you can carry dozens around in a lightweight and very cool reader. Computers and all their adjacent technology are the future – like it or not. And the youth of today are ready to jump on it.

This isn’t to say that paper books are defunct. NO WAY. It just means there is room for more than one way to enjoy reading books, magazines, newspapers, or technical data for college or school.

I shared some e-books on my new e-reader with my grandsons on a recent visit, and they loved it! I notice on your website that you provide helpful information and critique service for other authors. Would you tell us something about that?

Manuscript Critiques are something I love doing. When I started out, I was lucky enough to be mentored by several wonderful writers in an online list. I have never forgotten the time they took to guide me, point out my strengths and weaknesses, and help me tighten and improve my writing skills. Later I did critiques for free. I felt it was a way to pay back the tutoring I had received. When many more writers approached me for help, I started to charge a fee. These days, I sometimes have so many critique clients it’s often hard to find time for my own writing, not to mention promoting my latest books. Yet the thrill of hearing that a book I helped polish has been published never fades. This is always a YIPPE moment for me.

If there is one thing I would advise new writers to do it’s join a really good critique group. Then read lots-and-lots of books. This will give you a feel for the genre. Write, rewrite, and then rework it again until it is as good as you can make it. The two things I see most often in manuscripts is wordiness (overwriting) and weak, verbs. Make your writing as tight as granny’s new girdle, and dig deep for active and powerful verbs. Follow this with a fast pace and rich characters that readers can identify with. Finally put the manuscript aside for a month or so. When you reread it again, with fresh eyes, you will be amazed at what jumps out at you needing attention.

And always remember that two small things often play a big part in your success – luck and patience. Those who have the patience to stick with it, no matter how large the flood of rejections, are the writers who finally become published. LUCK? That’s sending the right book, at the right time, to the right publisher. Or, meeting the right editor at a conference you almost didn’t attend, with exactly the MS she was looking for.

I benefited from one of your workshops at the Muse Online Conference where you helped me polish up Animal Sound Mix-up and encouraged me to submit it to Guardian Angel Publishing. Since it was accepted and published, you can have one of those YIPPEE moments over it! What led you to submit to GAP, and what has been your experience there?

I knew one of their Illustrators, Kevin Scott Collier, who has since won several illustrating awards, and now has his own children’s animated TV show. He recommended me to the CEO, Lynda Burch. He also illustrated “Rattlesnake Jam,” my first book with them. This is a fun rhyming romp, with a crazy Gran cooking up rattlesnake jam, and Pa, who caught the rattlers and longed for Rattlesnake Pie. A great book for boys – all that yuck!!

As a publisher, GAP is very hands on, eager to find new ways to promote our books, and new outlets where they can be sold. They encourage the writers and illustrators to share promotional ideas, and team up to do book signings and virtual book tours. They are growing fast, yet maintain that personal touch.

Thank you, Margot, for sharing with us. It has been delightful! Readers, please hop in with your comments and questions for Margot! Here are some links where you can see more about Margot and her books:

Website: http://www.margotfinke.com

Margot’s Magic Carpet:
http://perfectmagiccarpet.blogspot.com/

Taconi Sample Chapter
http://taconisample.blogspot.com/
Taconi Reviews:

http://mysite.ncnetwork.net/mfinke/Reviews-T%20and%20C.htm

ALL Book Trailers:
http://mysite.ncnetwork.net/restbcm8/Book%20Trailers.htm#trailer

Down-under Fun – information about the Aussie animals in my books:
http://mysite.ncnetwork.net/restbcm8/Down-Under.htm#you

Spring Rejuvenates the Soul

2011-04-05T12:36:00.000-07:00

This is a news release from Donna McDine, Editor-in-Chief, Guardian Angel Kids Ezine

Spring Rejuvenates the Soul: Get Healthy with the Guardian Angel Kids April 2011 Issue

Spring is beginning to awaken and what better time to get your body moving and grooving than through the April 2011 issue of Guardian Angel Kids Ezine. Healthy living and eating is always important to one’s well being for both mind and body so come along and spring on over to Guardian Angel Kids and find out what is in store for you this month http://www.guardian-angel-kids.com.

Without further ado we invite you to come explore the April 2011 issue of Guardian Angel Kids Ezine http://www.guardian-angel-kids.com through poetry, short stories, non-fiction, and a parent/teacher article. To add to your child’s learning enjoyment be sure to partake in the interactive activities, games, and videos.

Featured Books:

Ouch! Sunburn, by Donna J. Shepherd, snappy rhymes along with the 15 colorful and fun illustrations by Kevin Scott Collier helps children see the need to protect their skin in the sun.

Sarah’s Socks My World of Autism, by Litsa Kamateros and Nia Morfonios. Sarah has autism and hates socks. Thanks to an understanding teacher and her helpful classmates she is better able to cope...until she's asked to wear socks.

Children poetry, stories, and articleS:

“The Runner,” by Debra Mayhew provides insights to what makes a runner tick.

“Does Noah Wash His Hands,” by Connie Arnold – the day in the life of a young boy.

“The Sleepover,” by Jennifer Gladen – the biggest spoiler of all, a cold before a sleepover. Jack Foster brings to life with his delightful illustration the fun of a girl’s sleepover.

“Finding Ideas,” by Cathy C. Hall – inspiration can be found in the ideas around us. We need to take the time to notice the simplicity of life around us. Samantha Bell’s charming illustration catches the essence of the imagination.

“Yum in the Tum,” by Jennifer Buchet - your mouth will water with these delicious and healthy recipes for the young and old to enjoy.

“Teach Your Child to Eat Healthy,” by Jacqueline Seewald – important tips to guide you to a healthy way of eating not only for your child, but for the whole family.

We look forward to your visit. Thank you for your time and interest.

International Children's Book Day

2011-04-02T09:17:00.000-07:00

Did you know that April 2 is International Children's Book Day? I just learned that myself. It has been celebrated for over 40 years on the birth date of Hans Christian Andersen to encourage the love of books and reading in children. There are so many wonderful children's books published around the world, and this is a great day to share a variety of books with the children in your life!

My husband, Tom, helped me make a short video of us sharing an excerpt from Animal Sound Mix-up, which we do for readings at preschools, children's museum, for our grandchildren, etc. I posted it on Facebook, and it was much enjoyed. Perhaps you'd like to join in the fun too. It was suggested that Tom might find a job doing his animal sounds. What do you think?

(See an excerpt from Animal Sound Mix-up and illustrations on my Children's website.)

Children's Book Recommendations

2011-03-28T11:18:00.000-07:00

Do you have young children, grandchildren or other young children that you want to find quality books to give? I though it might be helpful to you to have some recommendations. It helps me in finding good books for my three young grandsons. It's so important to develop a love for books and reading at an early age. My first grader is well above average on his reading and has always loved books. The kindergartner is coming along great with his learning to read and is fascinated by books. The three year old has trouble keeping his attention on a book unless it's very short and exciting. Need to work more on that one!

Here is a list of books on Amazon that I highly recommend. I've also mentioned some others on this blog, One Pelican at a Time, Signs of Trouble, NO MORE GUNK! and OUCH, SUNBURN! Of course, I can't fail to mention my own Animal Sound Mix-up!

Do you know of any books for young children you'd like to recommend? Please feel free to share them!

One Pelican at a Time

2011-03-21T09:42:00.000-07:00

Guardian Angel Publishing (the publisher of my Animal Sound Mix-up) has recently released a new children's book, One Pelican at a Time, by Nancy Stewart and illustrated by Samantha Bell. This is the first US children's book about the oil spill last year. It tells the story of two girls who try to help save the life of a pelican covered by oil. Also included are facts about the spill and tips. It's a great way for children to learn that they can make a difference!

Be sure to check out all the wonderful books for children available from Guardian Angel Publishing. They are also available from Amazon, and other booksellers. Also of interest are GAP Family Blog and Guardian Angel Kids Ezine. Enjoy!

Review of Signs of Trouble by Janet Ann Collins

2011-02-26T13:42:00.000-08:00

Signs of Trouble is a story about two young girls who accidentally get separated from their class while visiting a mall. Although they are scared, they remember what their teacher had taught them they needed to do if they ever got lost. The girls follow this important advice and provide a valuable lesson for children reading the book as they are being entertained by the situations and the girls' reactions in the story.

Jack Foster's colorful and expressive illustrations make the girls' emotions even more evident during their suspenseful experience.

Janet Collins has done a fine job of providing an entertaining and educational way to help teach young children about safety. It is another of the many quality children's books published by Guardian Angel Publishing.

Let Your Teeth Show

2011-02-12T13:55:00.000-08:00

Jesse has such lovely teeth,

So sparkling, clean and white.

To keep them that way

He brushes each day,

Each morning and every night.

Jesse has a very nice smile.

It's something I like to see

When his lips don't hide

Those nice teeth inside

As he flashes his smile at me.

Everyone needs to brush their teeth

To keep them healthy and clean.

When you brush you know

You can let your teeth show,

So smile and let them be seen!

February is National Children's Dental Health Month. Keeping teeth clean is an important part of staying healthy. A friend of mine, Donna Shepherd, has a cute book called NO MORE GUNK! that helps children learn to take care of their teeth through peppy and clever rhymes. It is filled with bright, bold, colorful illustrations by Kevin Collier and is a fun way to remind children to brush their teeth. As an added bonus, the book also includes OUCH! SUNBURN, which teaches children about sun safety. Guardian Angel Publishing (who published my Animal Sound Mix-up) is the publisher. You can visit Donna's NO MORE GUNK! blog for coloring pages, book trailer and links.

Eat Your Veggies

2011-01-10T11:30:00.000-08:00

It's a new year, a chance to make changes and do things better! What do you plan to do to make 2011 a great year? I'm thinking about ways for children to learn good health habits and will be sharing some poems about this. I have already shared one, Get Moving, encouraging exercising. You can read it here.

This poem is intended to help encourage proper nutrition. Guardian Angel Publishing, the publisher of my Animal Sound Mix-up, has a section of books on Health & Hygiene that I hope you will check out here.

Eat your carrots, eat your peas,

Eat your veggies, would you please?

Eat your corn and every bean,

Eat until your plate is clean.

Eating Veggies can be fun.

As you eat them, count each one.

See how many you can eat.

You can eat them with some meat.

Eat bananas, eat pineapples,

Eat good fruit, some grapes and apples,

Watermelon, orange, pear,

There's enough for you to share.

Fruits are such a tasty treat,

Some are crunchy, some are sweet.

God made fruits and veggies too.

All of them are good for you!

Christmas Love

2010-12-08T17:57:00.000-08:00

We remember each year on Christmas day

Little baby Jesus lying in the hay.

In a wooden manger near the cows and sheep

Lay the son of God, peacefully asleep.

Shepherds watching their sheep that night

Suddenly saw a very bright light.

Angels said not to be afraid

But go see where baby Jesus was laid.

Everybody was filled with joy

Because of this tiny baby boy

Who is the greatest gift of all,

Although he was so very small.

Because of God's love Jesus came,

And he still loves us just the same.

At Christmas time and each day too

Remember that Jesus always loves you!

Written for my grandsons, Luke, Noah & Jesse, 2009

Be There Bedtime Stories

2010-12-02T19:00:00.000-08:00

This is a press release about an exciting new way to read bedtime stories to children when you are far apart. As a grandmother whose grandchildren live far away and who doesn't get to be with them and read stories to them very often, I think it's a great idea! What do you think? The publisher of my Animal Sound Mix-up children's book, Guardian Angel Publishing, is one of those with books on the site.

New Website Enables Families to Be There for the Holidays

IRVINE, CA, December 1, 2010 - Webcam bedtime stories is an innovative new technology being added to the list of family-friendly media, this Christmas. ALISON SANSONE is Creator of BE THERE BEDTIME STORIES, a new website that combines e-books and video of a family storyteller.

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Grandparents Read Bedtime Stories with a Webcam

“We believe this broadens the scope of users and the value to families as a fun and new alternative to existing multi-media products on the market,”

Irvine, CA (PRWEB) December 1, 2010

The process takes place entirely on the BE THERE BEDTIME STORIES website in three steps: 1) select a children’s book from the bookstore, 2) read the story in front of a webcam as it displays on the computer screen, 3) the child receives an email with the link to view the e-book on the website with video of the storyteller positioned on each page.
The beta website went live in September of this year with over one hundred published children’s books available in the online bookstore. There are one hundred more titles in production with the interface, from five different publishers so far, including ten original works to be published by BE THERE BEDTIME STORIES.
The business model for BE THERE BEDTIME STORIES was inspired by her own problem of living far from her only two nieces, who live in Chicago. SANSONE was working in video production at the time, in Orange County, California. “I was unable to be a part of their development - unable to be recognized when I would visit once a year,” SANSONE explains her frustration. “Bedtime stories seemed a convenient and entertaining activity that would solve that problem.”
SANSONE explains the findings of the initial two months of testing. “The effects exceeded my expectations. When I visited my nieces for the first time after four story recordings, they instantly latched onto me from the moment I walked in the door.”
An additional finding from the beta launch is children were excited to read a story back to family members, regardless of their reading level. “We believe this broadens the scope of users and the value to families as a fun and new alternative to existing multi-media products on the market,” SANSONE concludes.
SANSONE expects grandparents and military families] to see the value of a recorded bedtime story over live or real-time webcam services as a way to utilize more family members for childhood development, and to preserve those family memories for future generations. The stories are priced at $11.99 for unlimited children and there is currently a Buy One Get One Free holiday special. Live storytelling and Mobile App delivery are options scheduled for subsequent development.
ALSO SEE:
Guardian Angel Publishing, Sylvan Dell Publishing, Illumination Arts Publishing and Lobster Press are the initial four publishers to license works for sale in the BE THERE BEDTIME STORIES online bookstore.
ABOUT:
ALISON SANSONE, Creator and CEO, started her career in the hospitality industry. After a decade of working in diverse leadership roles ranging from national Quality Assurance Manager to Human Resources Director to Investor Relations, Alison decided to pursue a focus in marketing and business development as her true passion. In 2005, she combined her training in videography with her marketing acumen to start her own company, producing web-based media tools for small businesses and non-profit organizations throughout Orange County, California.
The idea for Be There Bedtime Stories came from a personal frustration, during that point in her career. The youngest of 6 children with just 2 grandchildren out of the bunch, she was frustrated living so far from her only 2 nieces, who lived in Chicago. Her experience with video media inspired the business model of connecting families across miles through the simple activity of a bedtime story.
She began building the business plan in early 2007, but the idea ended up on hold for two years, after the unexpected death of her husband that summer. Beginning in October 2009, she decided to commit full attention to the business plan, dedicating her own personal time and resources to the launch of Be There Bedtime Stories, based in Orange County, CA. The Beta site went live in September 2010.

Get Moving!

2010-11-04T10:54:00.000-07:00

We all know how important exercise is, and we need to teach our children as well. It seems all too easy these days to spend free time occupied with the many electronic devices available, which leads to a lot of sitting and not much physical activity. I wrote a poem to encourage children (and adults as well) to get moving!

Get yourself moving,

go outside and play.

It's good to exercise

each and every day.

Go for a walk,

hop, skip and run,

play a lively game

and have a little fun!

It's good for your body

to stretch and move.

Getting exercise can

help your health improve.

So don't just sit around

and waste the day away.

Get up and get going,

make the most of your day!

Connie Arnold, 2010

http://www.childrenbooks.webs.com

Happy Birthday to Lenny Lee!

2010-10-20T05:20:00.000-07:00

Mixed up raccoon who said, "moo"

Soon found out that cows say, "moo"

So this raccoon and friend

Decided to send

Special birthday wishes to you!

Happy birthday to a special new young friend, Lenny Lee! I met Lenny online during my blog tour for Animal Sound Mix-up at Sharon Mayhew's Random Thoughts blog. Lenny has his own blog, Lenny's World, and I hope you'll pop over to say happy birthday to him and enjoy his great blog!

Lenny inspired this little poem through his comment to me about feeding cookies to some raccoons when they started saying, "moo." He wanted my advice since I know all about this stuff. After all, the animals in Animal Sound Mix-up are all mixed up in what they say. I'm happy to say I got the raccoons straightened out, and as you can see, they join the cow in wishing Lenny a happy birthday.

Hope you have a wonderful birthday, Lenny!

Gratitude and Prize Winners

2010-10-16T06:54:00.000-07:00

A big congratulations to the winners in the prize drawings for Animal Sound Mix-up tour. The Animal Encyclopedia was won by Janet Johnson. The winner of a $10 Amazon gift certificate is Kathy Stemke.

Due to problems with my Google account and not being able to send me notification of book purchases, I'm extending the drawing for the animal ornament set until Monday to give you a chance to email a confirmation of your order for Animal Sound Mix-up to beautifulmomentsofjoyandpeace at yahoo dot com. Thank you so much to all who purchased copies!

A huge thank you and hugs to each of you who visited the stops on my tour and shared with me the joys of Animal Sound Mix-up through the great reviews, interviews and other fun! I appreciate you, your comments and the new followers. I've tried to follow you but Google Friend Connect has not been working for me, so I'll be back and follow as soon as it will let me.

My great appreciation goes to the blog hosts for this journey. Hope you will visit these great blogs again. They each have much to offer.

Beth Reinke at Beth's Book Basket
J. Aday Kennedy at A Writing Playground
Lori Calabrese at Lori Calabrese Writes
Janet Ann Collins at OnWords Blog
Donna McDine at Write What Inspires You
Sharon Mayhew at Random Thoughts
Katie Hines at Walking on Water
Virginia S. Grenier at SFC: Families Matter
Rosemary Marotta at Rosemary's Reading Circle

Prizes and Animal fun

2010-10-14T18:41:00.000-07:00

As the blog tour for Animal Sound Mix-up nears a conclusion, I've found that my gmail account has been having problems and not receiving emails. This was the address I had given to contact me when copies of Animal Sound Mix-up were purchased to enter the prize drawing. Please leave a comment below or contact me at beautifulmomentsofjoyandpeace at yahoo dot com to let me know if you purchased a copy of the book. That will ensure that you are entered in the drawing for an animal ornament collection.

There will also be drawings for a $10 Amazon gift certificate and Animal Encyclopedia from those leaving comments during the tour.

The complete schedule for the tour, in case you missed any stops and would like to visit, is below, followed by some animal fun.

October 1: Beth's Book Basket
                   review by Beth Reinke
October 4: A Writing Playground
                   interview, bio and book blurb by J. Aday Kennedy
October 5: Lori Calabrese Writes
                   review by Lori Calabrese
October 6: Janet Ann Collins
                   review and animal trivia
October 7: A Writing Playground
                   review and book marketing brainstorm by J. Aday Kennedy
October 8: Connie Arnold, Children's Author
                   excerpts and illustrations featuring Kit Grady
October 11: Write What Inspires You
                    review by Donna McDine
October 12: Random Thoughts
                   Q&A by Sharon Mayhew
October 13: Walking on Water
                    interview by Katie Hines
October 14: SFC: Families Matter
                    review and Q&A by Virginia S. Grenier
October 14: Rosemary's Reading Circle
                    with Rosemary Marotta
October 15: Beth's Book Basket
                   interview by Beth Reinke
October 16: Connie Arnold, Children's Author
                   blog tour conclusion and prize winners announcement

Below are some unusual animal sounds with links to information about those animals on Wikipedia. Enjoy!

Alligators - bellow, hiss
Falcons - chant
Ferrets -   dook
Foxes -    bark, yelp or simper
Giraffes - bleat
Linnets -   chuckle
Nightingales - pipe and warble
Ostriches - bleep bleep
Tortoises - grunt

Visit with Kit Grady, Illustrator

2010-10-08T04:24:00.000-07:00

It's my great pleasure to share with you a little about Kit Grady, the illustrator of Animal Sound Mix-up. I'm sure you'll agree with me that her illustrations are delightful, and it's interesting to learn what was involved in the artistic part of this book. Please be sure to leave your comments or any questions you might have for Kit, and enjoy!

Animal Sound Mix-up was a manuscript that when I saw it, I knew it could really be an enjoyable book to illustrate. What great creatures Connie had filled into this story with a wonderful message. I began my process of illustrating “Animal Sound Mix-up” by breaking up the manuscript, allowing for good flow and visual possibilities. I pulled out my sketch pad and began drawing. After several weeks and lots of drawing paper used, I scanned the art into my computer. I used Photoshop and my wacom tablet to work on the illustrations and do the coloring and tweaking. A couple of months later, I emailed the art to the editor, Lynda Burch at Guardian Angel Publishing. She publishes in print and also ebooks which is a bonus in this ever changing world of publishing.

It was so much fun, yet there were challenging things like making the illusion a deer honk, a bird oink, or having a bear baa. Animals are my favorite things to draw, so this book was a delight.

Connie and I conversed a lot about ideas and thoughts by email. I haven’t met Connie in person yet, but since our imaginations seem to click in the same way I’m sure looking forward to meeting my author of “Animal Sound Mix-up.“

Thank you so much, Kit, and I'm really looking forward to meeting you as well. Here is one of Kit's illustrations from Animal Sound Mix-up, and you can see more of her art by visiting her website.

"What if when you went to the zoo,

all the monkeys were to moo?"

See the schedule for the rest of the tour and the prizes on the Blog Tour Begins post. Be sure to leave a comment to enter drawings for Amazon gift certificate and Animal Encyclopedia and let me know when you purchase a copy to enter the drawing for an animal ornament set. Animal Sound Mix-up can be purchased from Guardian Angel Publishing, Amazon, Barnes & Noble, and most online bookstores.

Blog Tour Begins

2010-09-30T16:47:00.000-07:00

Join in the fun as Animal Sound Mix-up goes on a virtual book tour October 1 - 15, 2010. Below is a list of the blogs hosting and dates. There will be two drawings from those who comment during the tour for a $10 Amazon gift certificate and an Animal Encyclopedia, and a drawing from those who purchase a copy of Animal Sound Mix-up and send confirmation of purchase (sent to conarnold@gmail.com) for a set of animal ornaments. Extra entries for all drawings by posting about tour on Twitter, Facebook, or your blog (be sure to let me know).

Aninmal Sound Mix-up can be purchased from Guardian Angel Publishing (print, ebook or CD), Amazon or Barnes & Noble

October 1: Beth's Book Basket
                   review by Beth Reinke
October 4: A Writing Playground
                   interview, bio and book blurb by J. Aday Kennedy
October 5: Lori Calabrese Writes
                   review by Lori Calabrese
October 6: Janet Ann Collins
                   review and animal trivia
October 7: A Writing Playground
                   review and book marketing brainstorm by J. Aday Kennedy
October 8: Connie Arnold, Children's Author
                   excerpts and illustrations featuring Kit Grady
October 11: Write What Inspires You
                    review by Donna McDine
October 12: Random Thoughts
                   Q&A by Sharon Mayhew
October 13: Walking on Water
                    interview by Katie Hines
October 14: SFC: Families Matter
                    review by D.M. Cunningham
October 14: Rosemary's Reading Circle
                    with Rosemary Marotta
October 15: Beth's Book Basket
                   interview by Beth Reinke
October 16: Connie Arnold, Children's Author
                   blog tour conclusion and prize winners announcement

Meet Me in St. Louis

2010-09-25T14:18:00.000-07:00

Recently I went to St. Louis for a gathering of Guardian Angel Publishing authors and illustrators and enjoyed meeting others and the special events. We participated in events at the St. Louis Children's Illustrated Art Museum and Border's bookstore. It was a great experience meeting fellow authors and illustrators and sharing my new book, Animal Sound Mix-up. I especially enjoyed reading to the children, seeing their reactions and letting them share their thoughts. You can see the Guardian Angel 2010 Arch Angel Award and more pictures on my Children's Books and Poems site.

After leaving St. Louis, we traveled on to visit our daughter and family. It's always such a special time together with family, and the three little grandsons aged 6, 5 and 3 make for an exciting visit! Isn't it a joy to see young children enjoying books and learning?

Review and Fun Links

2010-09-07T11:11:00.000-07:00

I'd like to share with you a wonderful review just received from Nicole Weaver for Animal Sound Mix-up. Be sure to check out the fun links below the review to find animal games to play with your children!

Do you like reading to your toddlers? Are you a proud grandma and grandpa looking for a good book to read to your precious grandkids? If you answered yes to either question, look no further. Connie Arnold's Animal Sound Mix-Up will bring cheer delight to your little bundle of joy.

Written in beautiful rhyme, the book explores the sound that domestic, farm and jungle animals make. To help young toddlers learn about sounds, the author poses silly questions like: What would happen if a cat were to moo? Or what if a lion said meow... or if a donkey said bow-wow? The colorful pictures on every page will keep a young child captivated while learning what sounds goes with what animal in a fun way.

I can visualize the learning that can take place reading this book to a toddler. The book can be used as a very handy educational tool to teach young children beginning sounds.

Homeschooling has become a viable option for many families; this book would be a good choice for teaching first sounds through rhyming. Some examples of rhyming used throughout the book are: say, day, way- bear, stare- howl, owl- squeak, speak-meow, and bow-wow.

The author graciously provided me with a PDF file of this book for review. After reading it once, I went back and read it again and again. The illustrations by Kit Grady added more depth to the story. I highly recommend this book to any parent or grandparent looking for a good book that can be both fun and educational.

Animal Sound Mix-up is available from Guardian Angel Publishing and Amazon

Here are some fun links for you. Do you know of others you can recommend?

Kid's Corner Animal Games

Switcheroo Zoo

ASPCA Kids

National Geographic Coloring Book

Animal Sound Mix-Up

2010-08-26T13:47:00.000-07:00

My first children's book, Animal Sound Mix-up, has just been published by Guardian Angel Publishing Company! Hope you'll visit there to see a couple of pages from it, and be sure to check out all the great books for children!

I think you will agree that the illustrations by Kit Grady are colorful and fantastic! There are many talented artists and authors at Guardian Angel Publishing, and I'm thankful to be a new angel among them.

I'll be sharing more fun poems soon and hope you will enjoy them!

Grandpa’s Song

2010-08-20T13:14:00.000-07:00

A cricket and a bumblebee
Landed on my Grandpa’s knee.
As he sang a happy song
They began to sing along.
The cricket’s chirp and buzzing bee
Added two part harmony.
Grandpa had to sing each word.
I enjoyed the song I heard!

“Hey little friends come sing with me,
Hey chirp, chirp, buzz, buzz, whee!”
The song they sang sounded sweet.

A bird nearby began to tweet.
“Hey chirp, chirp, buzz, whee, tweet!”
Hearing them was quite a treat!
While they made a joyful sound,
I sat near them on the ground.

A bullfrog hopped by Grandpa’s feet.
It hit the ground with a thumping beat.
A croaking sound came from the frog
As he jumped up on a log.
“Hey chirp, buzz, tweet, croak, thump!”
Rhythm came from the bullfrog’s jump.
“Hey little friends come sing with me,
Hey chirp, buzz, tweet, thump, whee!”

© Connie Arnold
for more fun poems and other fun stuff, visit my children's website