Getting Started
I had written about fifty little stories hoping one day to get the courage to send one of
them off to a publisher. I kept putting it off since I feared rejection. I had been a
successful software consultant and wasn't sure that I wanted to start another career, let
alone be rejected.
Finally after my daughter kept at me, I decided to go to the Internet and look up
information on publishing a book. I did a search on “unpublished authors”, and found a
website for AuthorHouse. Their website discussed the benefits of becoming self-
published. I understood none of this, believe me; but I filled out the AuthorHouse form
asking for more information. Within a couple of days, I received a nice call from one of
their representatives. He sent me some literature and that started my process of
becoming a published author. I have learned the hard way how to get a book out. I plan
to periodically share my experiences with you to make your publication easier. I love it
each time one of my “Baby Robins” gets a voice.
I had written about fifty little stories hoping one day to get the courage to send one of
them off to a publisher. I kept putting it off since I feared rejection. I had been a
successful software consultant and wasn't sure that I wanted to start another career, let
alone be rejected.
Finally after my daughter kept at me, I decided to go to the Internet and look up
information on publishing a book. I did a search on “unpublished authors”, and found a
website for AuthorHouse. Their website discussed the benefits of becoming self-
published. I understood none of this, believe me; but I filled out the AuthorHouse form
asking for more information. Within a couple of days, I received a nice call from one of
their representatives. He sent me some literature and that started my process of
becoming a published author. I have learned the hard way how to get a book out. I plan
to periodically share my experiences with you to make your publication easier. I love it
each time one of my “Baby Robins” gets a voice.
From the Desk of April Robins
Valentines 2008 - BlogTalk Radio Interview
I had my first interview with Suzanne Lieurance, Founder, Director, and Coaching
Coordinator for The National Writing for Children Center. The podcast can be reached
at blogtalkradio.com . The interview is 30 minutes long and took place at 2:00 central
time 2/11/2008. Just look for "An Interview with Children's Book Author April Robins".
If you write for children and want to be interviewed, get in touch with Suzanne. She is
fun to talk with and will give you a simple 10 question list before the show.
I had a great time. It took me about 10 minutes to quit saying "uh", but I continued to
end each thought with an "alright". Well, it was my first podcast and I have to learn. I
am really pleased with how it turned out. If you listen closely, you will hear me slip and
give out my husband's nickname. I am getting pretty accustomed to saying my pen
name, but it is not as natural to say F. Jay.
Also, take a look at www.blogtalkradio.com. I just joined. It looks like a good medium
for authors to promote their work.
Happy Valentines,
April Robins
Interview with Bennie the Blue Bunny
Bunny. You may know him from the children’s picture book “Where is My Bennie?” by
April, Celeste, and Ruby Robins.
Bennie, you are a mighty handsome fellow in spite of your scars.
Thank you April, I try to keep in shape. No extra stuffing for me.
You and Austin are best friends. How did you meet?
I was a gift to Austin at his baby shower.
In the book “Where is My Bennie?”, you experienced a terrifying ordeal. Would like to
tell us about it?
I always sleep with my best friend Austin who was five at the time of the story. While he
was sleeping, his grandmother’s dog, Hunter, snatched me from his arms. I was
scared at first but soon realized that Hunter loved stuffed animals. He did not think of
me as a meal.
We are so glad that was true. I failed to ask you if you enjoyed the car ride to Grandma’
s?
April, come on, you have read the book. You know I was safely packed in Austin’s
suitcase.
Sorry Bennie. I was just asking for those who have not read the book yet. I understand
that Austin and his Grandfather searched all over the house for you. Did you hear them
calling your name?
No, I was sound asleep.
Where did they finally find you? Who rescued you?
Grandma came home with her new hairdo and saved the day. I was in Hunter’s
kennel. You would think that Grandpa would have thought to look there. I think he and
Austin were too upset. By the way April, did you know that I can speak Spanish?
That is great Bennie! I will have to have you back to discuss the Spanish Version,
“¿Dónde está Mi Bennie?”
Outlining your Website
One of the main advertisement vehicles that an author has is their website or Blog. We
started with a website. F. Jay and I had our own individual idea as to what the website
should look like. We then combined our notes into the current design.
I went to amazon.com and looked up bestselling children’s books, writing down the
author’s names. I then did an Internet search on each author to find their website. I
looked at over 50 websites comparing features. Now, I would suggest that you go to
my Golden Tokens from Other Authors & Illustrators and link to their wonderful sites for
ideas.
F. Jay and I both wanted: Home; Meet the Authors; Books summary, with each book
having its own web page; and Contact Us page. F. Jay wanted the Writers Corner with
periodic, featured articles. Of course, he did not intend to write any of the articles. We
will see about that in the future. In his business world, F. Jay is a noted for his White
Papers. We then discussed having an events,activities, and coming soon section. It
seemed natural to group all of that under one page titled “What’s New”.
All of this sounds easy but it took over a month to lay out our website’s flow of
information.
I finally wanted two or three links pages added to our outline. I see the importance of
networking. Link pages suggested were: other authors; writers aides; and a shopping
directory, featuring children’s items. F. Jay did not really like or understand the
shopping aspect but eventually gave in, after I charged ahead.
I am telling you our thought patterns hoping to help you in your website decision
process. The bottom line is: start your website before your book is published; research
other author websites; pick your website carrier carefully; be open to new ideas; and
most important, be agreeable to change. You will no sooner think your site is designed
perfectly and areas needing improvement will surface. Usually after someone else has
volunteered their critique.
By the way, please feel free to do your own evaluation of our website by dropping us a
line at Contact Us. We would love to hear from you!
One of the main advertisement vehicles that an author has is their website or Blog. We
started with a website. F. Jay and I had our own individual idea as to what the website
should look like. We then combined our notes into the current design.
I went to amazon.com and looked up bestselling children’s books, writing down the
author’s names. I then did an Internet search on each author to find their website. I
looked at over 50 websites comparing features. Now, I would suggest that you go to
my Golden Tokens from Other Authors & Illustrators and link to their wonderful sites for
ideas.
F. Jay and I both wanted: Home; Meet the Authors; Books summary, with each book
having its own web page; and Contact Us page. F. Jay wanted the Writers Corner with
periodic, featured articles. Of course, he did not intend to write any of the articles. We
will see about that in the future. In his business world, F. Jay is a noted for his White
Papers. We then discussed having an events,activities, and coming soon section. It
seemed natural to group all of that under one page titled “What’s New”.
All of this sounds easy but it took over a month to lay out our website’s flow of
information.
I finally wanted two or three links pages added to our outline. I see the importance of
networking. Link pages suggested were: other authors; writers aides; and a shopping
directory, featuring children’s items. F. Jay did not really like or understand the
shopping aspect but eventually gave in, after I charged ahead.
I am telling you our thought patterns hoping to help you in your website decision
process. The bottom line is: start your website before your book is published; research
other author websites; pick your website carrier carefully; be open to new ideas; and
most important, be agreeable to change. You will no sooner think your site is designed
perfectly and areas needing improvement will surface. Usually after someone else has
volunteered their critique.
By the way, please feel free to do your own evaluation of our website by dropping us a
line at Contact Us. We would love to hear from you!
Finding Artist
OK, you have decided to write a children’s picture book but you can’t draw a straight
line. How do you find an artist. First if you are publishing traditionally, you will not
submit illustrations with your book. Most large publishing houses have certain artist that
they use for their books. They don’t even care to hear your suggestions. Your job is to
simply supply the words.
For our conversation, we will look at self publishing, and you will need to provide the
illustrations. This was my first real challenge. I had no idea how to start so I just had at
it. First I asked every member of my family if they knew how to draw. My daughter did
but was not interested in being involved with that aspect of the books. Second, I asked
every artist with a sidewalk stand if they drew illustrations. I found a neat young man
from New York at the state fair, but my daughter did not like his drawings. Third, I called
the local art galleries and asked if anyone was interested. Fourth, I looked up the local
colleges and asked their art department heads if any of their students might be
interested. Fifth, I contacted a trade college specializing in art students who would post
your job for students to bid on. Sixth, I joined Yahoo Groups for authors & illustrators
and posted my needs.
After numerous failures I decided to pay for the in-house illustrations for "Where is My
Bennie?" In-house illustrations are expensive, and I could not afford to do all my books
this way. But it was a great learning experience. They take you through all the steps
necessary to produce a book. You supply illustration notes for each page of
illustrations, view and approve the pencil sketches, and then view and approve the
finished product of colored illustrations.
Finally, I did a web search and accidentally came across a job placement service
called guru.com. After weeks of getting nowhere, this service was so easy and how I
found my artist. You register with www.guru.com as an employer. You place a job
description with a price range. You wait for artist to bid on your job. You will probably
have ten plus bids the first day. After viewing the portfolios of the artist bidding, you
award a contract. Look at my books to see what wonderful work they produce.
By the way, I have really made it easy for you by supplying information on how to get in
touch with my artist at Meet the Author.
http://robinfalls.blogspot.com/
OK, you have decided to write a children’s picture book but you can’t draw a straight
line. How do you find an artist. First if you are publishing traditionally, you will not
submit illustrations with your book. Most large publishing houses have certain artist that
they use for their books. They don’t even care to hear your suggestions. Your job is to
simply supply the words.
For our conversation, we will look at self publishing, and you will need to provide the
illustrations. This was my first real challenge. I had no idea how to start so I just had at
it. First I asked every member of my family if they knew how to draw. My daughter did
but was not interested in being involved with that aspect of the books. Second, I asked
every artist with a sidewalk stand if they drew illustrations. I found a neat young man
from New York at the state fair, but my daughter did not like his drawings. Third, I called
the local art galleries and asked if anyone was interested. Fourth, I looked up the local
colleges and asked their art department heads if any of their students might be
interested. Fifth, I contacted a trade college specializing in art students who would post
your job for students to bid on. Sixth, I joined Yahoo Groups for authors & illustrators
and posted my needs.
After numerous failures I decided to pay for the in-house illustrations for "Where is My
Bennie?" In-house illustrations are expensive, and I could not afford to do all my books
this way. But it was a great learning experience. They take you through all the steps
necessary to produce a book. You supply illustration notes for each page of
illustrations, view and approve the pencil sketches, and then view and approve the
finished product of colored illustrations.
Finally, I did a web search and accidentally came across a job placement service
called guru.com. After weeks of getting nowhere, this service was so easy and how I
found my artist. You register with www.guru.com as an employer. You place a job
description with a price range. You wait for artist to bid on your job. You will probably
have ten plus bids the first day. After viewing the portfolios of the artist bidding, you
award a contract. Look at my books to see what wonderful work they produce.
By the way, I have really made it easy for you by supplying information on how to get in
touch with my artist at Meet the Author.
http://robinfalls.blogspot.com/
Determining the Size of a Children's Picture Book
When I first started writing, I thought all children’s picture books had to have 16 written
pages with 16 pages of illustrations. I read that somewhere, in fact, in more than one
somewhere. I would work and work to divide my book into 16 even sized pages. That
rule of thumb is not actually true.
My real problem was in cutting my words back to fit on only 16 pages. My co-writing
daughters often asked if maybe we could be less wordy. I tried and cut down from
2000 words to 1500 words per book. I think the number of words in a children’s book
is more important than you think. Too many words and the child will lose attention. Too
few words and the child will feel shorted. All of our books, except Xlibris, are geared
toward early readers to grade 3.6. They need around 1500 words. We are very proud
of the acceptance we are getting in the schools and libraries for our books.
If you are self published, the cost of your book will increase as the number of pages
increase. I would never recommend going over a 40 page children’s picture book. In
fact, I will be slimming our books down to 32 to 36 pages in the future. You need to
add 6 pages into your calculation for the following pages: title, copyright, dedication,
page after the last page of the story, about the author, and a blank page at the end.
This varies with publisher, but is a general good rule to follow. Just remember that the
total number of pages needs to be divisible by 4.
So I would recommend that you have fun with your words, make them words that others
will want to read over and over again, and check with your publisher to determine the
price they will set for your book at various number of pages.
Comment on this subject at:
http://robinfalls.blogspot.com/
When I first started writing, I thought all children’s picture books had to have 16 written
pages with 16 pages of illustrations. I read that somewhere, in fact, in more than one
somewhere. I would work and work to divide my book into 16 even sized pages. That
rule of thumb is not actually true.
My real problem was in cutting my words back to fit on only 16 pages. My co-writing
daughters often asked if maybe we could be less wordy. I tried and cut down from
2000 words to 1500 words per book. I think the number of words in a children’s book
is more important than you think. Too many words and the child will lose attention. Too
few words and the child will feel shorted. All of our books, except Xlibris, are geared
toward early readers to grade 3.6. They need around 1500 words. We are very proud
of the acceptance we are getting in the schools and libraries for our books.
If you are self published, the cost of your book will increase as the number of pages
increase. I would never recommend going over a 40 page children’s picture book. In
fact, I will be slimming our books down to 32 to 36 pages in the future. You need to
add 6 pages into your calculation for the following pages: title, copyright, dedication,
page after the last page of the story, about the author, and a blank page at the end.
This varies with publisher, but is a general good rule to follow. Just remember that the
total number of pages needs to be divisible by 4.
So I would recommend that you have fun with your words, make them words that others
will want to read over and over again, and check with your publisher to determine the
price they will set for your book at various number of pages.
Comment on this subject at:
http://robinfalls.blogspot.com/
Texas Library Association 2008 Conference
will sit, on the 16th, 17th, and 18th, at Pat Anderson’s booth, Overlooked Books Booth
#2040. If you attend, please come by and say hello. I am looking forward to this event.
It will be my first event with other authors, and we strive to offer early reader books that
would be acceptable in the library systems. That is our primary goal. I am told the
convention expects over 3,000 attendees. I have even heard numbers up to 8,000. Of
course, everything is bigger in Texas.
If you want more information about TLA2008 go to
http://www.txla.org/conference/conf.html
will sit, on the 16th, 17th, and 18th, at Pat Anderson’s booth, Overlooked Books Booth
#2040. If you attend, please come by and say hello. I am looking forward to this event.
It will be my first event with other authors, and we strive to offer early reader books that
would be acceptable in the library systems. That is our primary goal. I am told the
convention expects over 3,000 attendees. I have even heard numbers up to 8,000. Of
course, everything is bigger in Texas.
If you want more information about TLA2008 go to
http://www.txla.org/conference/conf.html
What To Do When an Event Goes Bad
Recently I was the storyteller at a charity event. It was a national event with hopes of
hundreds of people showing up. First that did not happen. Mostly the attendance was
made up of the vendors and their children. This leads to my role, I became the
babysitter. Only two families visited the storytelling room that were not vendors; but the
room was full most of the time with small, bored children. I left without selling one book
after reading to children for three hours. My real goal of networking with the community
did not happen, my name was misspelled on the advertisement flyer, and I did not even
get a proper “thank you” from the parents I babysat for. I was down emotionally to say
the least.
As a children's book author, there will be many times when an event will not be what you
expected. Take stock of the situation and learn from it. Ask yourself, should I have
attended the event to begin with? Was I the only Author there? Was I offered any
compensation for my time and expenses? Did I fully understand my role? Would I do it
again?
Now comes the part of what to do to lift your spirits when you are down from such an
event. First, put the negative feelings in the past and don’t dwell on them. Start thinking
of more productive ways to spend your time in the future. Start the outline of another
book, that will always cheer you up. Go to your on-line networking forum such as
Facebook and send a gift to a friend. Read your e-mails which have stacked up from
other author friends. Last but not least, remember the children that benefited from your
time. After all, you are a children’s book author.
To enter your thoughts on this subject, please go to my blog at
http://robinfalls.blogspot.com/
Recently I was the storyteller at a charity event. It was a national event with hopes of
hundreds of people showing up. First that did not happen. Mostly the attendance was
made up of the vendors and their children. This leads to my role, I became the
babysitter. Only two families visited the storytelling room that were not vendors; but the
room was full most of the time with small, bored children. I left without selling one book
after reading to children for three hours. My real goal of networking with the community
did not happen, my name was misspelled on the advertisement flyer, and I did not even
get a proper “thank you” from the parents I babysat for. I was down emotionally to say
the least.
As a children's book author, there will be many times when an event will not be what you
expected. Take stock of the situation and learn from it. Ask yourself, should I have
attended the event to begin with? Was I the only Author there? Was I offered any
compensation for my time and expenses? Did I fully understand my role? Would I do it
again?
Now comes the part of what to do to lift your spirits when you are down from such an
event. First, put the negative feelings in the past and don’t dwell on them. Start thinking
of more productive ways to spend your time in the future. Start the outline of another
book, that will always cheer you up. Go to your on-line networking forum such as
Facebook and send a gift to a friend. Read your e-mails which have stacked up from
other author friends. Last but not least, remember the children that benefited from your
time. After all, you are a children’s book author.
To enter your thoughts on this subject, please go to my blog at
http://robinfalls.blogspot.com/
What Goes Around Comes Around
One of the pleasant surprises you will encounter in writing is the encouragement and
promotion of one writer to another writer. After all, there are a lot of readers out there;
and they need more than just your books. With all that in mind, please let me show you
my author friend Mayra Calvani's book launch announcement:
One of the pleasant surprises you will encounter in writing is the encouragement and
promotion of one writer to another writer. After all, there are a lot of readers out there;
and they need more than just your books. With all that in mind, please let me show you
my author friend Mayra Calvani's book launch announcement:
June is 'Book Reviewing' month at Blogcritics Magazine!
To promote the release of The Slippery Art of Book Reviewing, co-author Mayra Calvani will be interviewing 15+ reviewers and review editors during the month of June. Learn all about the business of book reviewing and what's in the mind of some of the most popular reviewers on the internet today. Some of the guests will include: Alex Moore from ForeWord Magazine, James Cox from Midwest Book Review, Irene Watson from Reader Views, Andrea Sisco from Armchair Interviews, Magdalena Ball from The Compulsive Reader, Sharyn McGinty from In The Library Reviews, Lea Schizas from Muse Book Reviews, Linda Baldwin from Road to Romance, Hilary Williamson from Book Loons, Judy Clark from Mostly Fiction, and many others!
To see the complete lineup, visit: The Slippery Book Review Blog.
Between June 1st and June 30th, stop by Blogcritics and leave a comment under the reviewer interviews for a chance to win a Pump Up Your Book Promotion Virtual Book Tour (coordinated by book marketing guru Dorothy Thompson), OR, as an alternative to a non-author winner, a $50 B&N gift certificate!
Learning from the Experts
I just can’t over emphasize the importance of joining Yahoo groups. I truly love one in
particular, Children’s Writers Today. They have so many concerned and active
members, both newbie and seasoned writers. They are always willing to respond even
to what might seem like a trivia post. They also initiate detailed analysis of issues
related to the heart of writing for children. One seasoned writer in particular that I am so
very proud to call my friend is Children’s Book Author Margot Finke. She has a new
book out that I want everyone to learn about. She has furnished me with its write-up
and a review that are listed below. Play close attention to the details Margot provides
that make for a great book launch.
-------------------------------------------------------------
April I am thrilled that you want to feature my new rhyming picture book, "Rattlesnake
Jam," this week on your website.
My riot of a tale tells about dear old Gran and Pa, and their yen for rattlers. Pa catches
'em, but the problem is that Gran decides how they're cooked up - Gran wants jam, but
Pa yearns for rattlesnake pie.
** The story works GREAT at getting those reluctant readers to enjoy a book.
This was a barrel of fun to write: I confess, I giggled all the way through it. And Kevin
Scott Collier's illustrations make the characters jump off the page. Just what I would
have drawn myself, if I had a fraction of Kevin's talent.
Guardian Angel Publishing published it with tender loving care, as they do all their
books.
To launch "Rattlesnake Jam," I'm offering some fun things:
#1 - A writing competition. A free autographed copy goes to the person who e-mails
me ( mfinke@verizon.net ) the best account of their encounter with a rattlesnake. So
get cracking on those essays!!
#2 - Kids can visit Gran's Kitchen for yucky sounding rattler recipes.
Be careful now - you mom might faint!!!
#3 - Print out a fun rattlesnake puzzle, or a cool coloring sheet from my website's
"Rattlesnake Jam" page.
#4 - Take my rattlesnake eating POLL - e-mail me if you've eaten rattler and what it
was like.
These 4 fun things can be found where Gran, Pa, and their rattlers hang out:
http://mysite.verizon.net/mfinke/My%20Other%20Books.htm#other
And you can read two terrific reviews on my website:
http://mysite.verizon.net/mfinke/Rattlesnake%20Reviews.htm#review
Available in soft cover through Amazon, Target, GAP, and other outlets.
Autographed soft cover copies can be purchased on my website:
http://www.margotfinke.com
--------------------------------------------
Rattlesnake Jam
by Margot E. Finke
Illustrations by Kevin Scott Collier
Guardian Angel Publishing -
12430 Tesson Ferry Road #186
Saint Louis, MO 63128 USA
e-Book ISBN 13: 978-1-935137-24-5
Print ISBN 13: 978-1-935137-00-9
MAY 2008
Paperback, 28 pages, $10.95
Ages 4 & Up
Reviewed by Mayra Calvani
Rattlesnake Jam is a hilariously funny
children’s picture book about an old couple who share an irresistible affection for
rattlesnakes. There’s only one problem: While Pa would rather have the rattlesnakes
turned into fritters or pie, old Gran prefers them turned into jam… disgustingly green,
sweetened, gooey rattlesnake jam!
So no matter how cold the weather is, there goes brave Pa hunting after the snakes.
And as he hunts them, he fantasizes about the various ways Gran could cook them—
hot on a plate, fried, sliced on white rice, hmmm… But no way will his dreams ever
become a reality, for as readers will learn “…snake cooked for Pa was not in Gran’s
plan. She dreamed of them sweetened and made into jam.” Though Gran swears her
special jam can cure colds, gout and wheeze, not to mention “troublesome knees”,
everyone dislikes the taste of her ghastly creation. Will Gran ever stop? And what would
happen to Pa, if she ever did?
Colliers’s colorful, wacky illustrations complement Finke’s humorous rhyme perfectly.
Gran is grossly comical with her toothless grin, warts, bell pepper nose, and tough
exterior. The reader will feel sorry for Pa, who seems completely under Gran’s control.
The book has 28 pages in all, and each story page has an illustration with a short text at
the bottom—a two or four line rhyme, like this one:
Drop in chunky slices, stir well with a spoon.
Add mysterious spices! Gran hummed a wild tune.
The way to Gran’s heart was through rattlers galore—
Making rattler jam bubble, ‘til it flowed on the floor.
The song-like cadence will be enjoyed by kids and adults alike. Snakes are reptiles
that inspire both fear and fascination, especially in children, and it was clever of the
author to use them as victims instead of villains in this book. This is a fine addition to
Finke’s series of rhyming books about animals. Whimsical and amusing, Rattlesnake
Jam is one of those books young children will beg their parents to read to them again
and again.
-----------------------
book.
I just can’t over emphasize the importance of joining Yahoo groups. I truly love one in
particular, Children’s Writers Today. They have so many concerned and active
members, both newbie and seasoned writers. They are always willing to respond even
to what might seem like a trivia post. They also initiate detailed analysis of issues
related to the heart of writing for children. One seasoned writer in particular that I am so
very proud to call my friend is Children’s Book Author Margot Finke. She has a new
book out that I want everyone to learn about. She has furnished me with its write-up
and a review that are listed below. Play close attention to the details Margot provides
that make for a great book launch.
-------------------------------------------------------------
April I am thrilled that you want to feature my new rhyming picture book, "Rattlesnake
Jam," this week on your website.
My riot of a tale tells about dear old Gran and Pa, and their yen for rattlers. Pa catches
'em, but the problem is that Gran decides how they're cooked up - Gran wants jam, but
Pa yearns for rattlesnake pie.
** The story works GREAT at getting those reluctant readers to enjoy a book.
This was a barrel of fun to write: I confess, I giggled all the way through it. And Kevin
Scott Collier's illustrations make the characters jump off the page. Just what I would
have drawn myself, if I had a fraction of Kevin's talent.
Guardian Angel Publishing published it with tender loving care, as they do all their
books.
To launch "Rattlesnake Jam," I'm offering some fun things:
#1 - A writing competition. A free autographed copy goes to the person who e-mails
me ( mfinke@verizon.net ) the best account of their encounter with a rattlesnake. So
get cracking on those essays!!
#2 - Kids can visit Gran's Kitchen for yucky sounding rattler recipes.
Be careful now - you mom might faint!!!
#3 - Print out a fun rattlesnake puzzle, or a cool coloring sheet from my website's
"Rattlesnake Jam" page.
#4 - Take my rattlesnake eating POLL - e-mail me if you've eaten rattler and what it
was like.
These 4 fun things can be found where Gran, Pa, and their rattlers hang out:
http://mysite.verizon.net/mfinke/My%20Other%20Books.htm#other
And you can read two terrific reviews on my website:
http://mysite.verizon.net/mfinke/Rattlesnake%20Reviews.htm#review
Available in soft cover through Amazon, Target, GAP, and other outlets.
Autographed soft cover copies can be purchased on my website:
http://www.margotfinke.com
--------------------------------------------
Rattlesnake Jam
by Margot E. Finke
Illustrations by Kevin Scott Collier
Guardian Angel Publishing -
12430 Tesson Ferry Road #186
Saint Louis, MO 63128 USA
e-Book ISBN 13: 978-1-935137-24-5
Print ISBN 13: 978-1-935137-00-9
MAY 2008
Paperback, 28 pages, $10.95
Ages 4 & Up
Reviewed by Mayra Calvani
Rattlesnake Jam is a hilariously funny
children’s picture book about an old couple who share an irresistible affection for
rattlesnakes. There’s only one problem: While Pa would rather have the rattlesnakes
turned into fritters or pie, old Gran prefers them turned into jam… disgustingly green,
sweetened, gooey rattlesnake jam!
So no matter how cold the weather is, there goes brave Pa hunting after the snakes.
And as he hunts them, he fantasizes about the various ways Gran could cook them—
hot on a plate, fried, sliced on white rice, hmmm… But no way will his dreams ever
become a reality, for as readers will learn “…snake cooked for Pa was not in Gran’s
plan. She dreamed of them sweetened and made into jam.” Though Gran swears her
special jam can cure colds, gout and wheeze, not to mention “troublesome knees”,
everyone dislikes the taste of her ghastly creation. Will Gran ever stop? And what would
happen to Pa, if she ever did?
Colliers’s colorful, wacky illustrations complement Finke’s humorous rhyme perfectly.
Gran is grossly comical with her toothless grin, warts, bell pepper nose, and tough
exterior. The reader will feel sorry for Pa, who seems completely under Gran’s control.
The book has 28 pages in all, and each story page has an illustration with a short text at
the bottom—a two or four line rhyme, like this one:
Drop in chunky slices, stir well with a spoon.
Add mysterious spices! Gran hummed a wild tune.
The way to Gran’s heart was through rattlers galore—
Making rattler jam bubble, ‘til it flowed on the floor.
The song-like cadence will be enjoyed by kids and adults alike. Snakes are reptiles
that inspire both fear and fascination, especially in children, and it was clever of the
author to use them as victims instead of villains in this book. This is a fine addition to
Finke’s series of rhyming books about animals. Whimsical and amusing, Rattlesnake
Jam is one of those books young children will beg their parents to read to them again
and again.
-----------------------
book.
Choosing the Title for a Book
to a writer friend asking for help in choosing a title for her new book. Everyone’s
suggestions were great. My friend thanked everyone and announced what she liked
best of all the suggestions. This made me think once again about the titles of my
books. What is wrong and what is right. What steps should I have taken? First I
checked to make sure no other book had their title. I should have checked to see what
results I would get from a major search engine. I would have found that “Lovely Little
Lamb” brings up a porn site. I should have considered what key words are most used
on an amazon.com search; “I’ll Tuck You in, Deer” is border line. It is too long but
descriptive.
This leads into my guest author this week, Shari Lyle-Soffe. I love her unique name for
her series, Rooter and Snuffle. Please read what she has to say about her new book.
April, thank you for inviting me to talk about my latest book in the Rooter and Snuffle
series, "Trouble Finds Rooter and Snuffle".
As with the first two books, this book is made up of three complete stories about the
mischievous raccoon brothers.
In the first story, Rooter the oldest brother finds a new friend, Twitcher Rabbit. Twitcher
wants Rooter to like only him and Rooter is flattered. But is having only one friend a
good thing?
In the second story, Snuffle is disappointed because of all the things he can't do very
well. Then his brother and some friends teach him a valuable lesson.
In the third story, Rooter and Snuffle's game of pickup twigs is interrupted by the
screams of a friend in trouble. At first the animals feel helpless. Then they realize
together they can make a difference.
Events in the lives of Rooter and Snuffle are based on my childhood as the oldest of
four children, and other children I have known.
Raccoons are a pleasant memory from my childhood and I hope children will enjoy
reading about them as much as I enjoy writing about them.
Kevin Scott Collier's illustrations are delightful. Children always ask if I drew them. They
love the colorful illustrations and so do I.
My publisher is Guardian Angel Publishing and they have done a wonderful job with the
books. They are great to work with. All three books can be found at most online and
brick and mortar book stores. http://www.amazon.com/Trouble-Finds-Rooter-Snuffle-
Lyle-Soffe/dp/1933090723/ref=sr_1_3?ie=UTF8&s=books&qid=1210855639&sr=8-3
Children and parents alike can visit my webpage at http://www.rooterandsnuffle.
blogspot.com
where they will find more information about Rooter and Snuffle and other characters
from the books. There is wonderful information available there about raccoons. They
will also find printable coloring pages and raccoon games to play.
I love animals and am donating part of my royalties from these books to Wildlife
Images, a wildlife rehabilitation and education facility here in Oregon
Shari Lyle-Soffe
ROOTER AND SNUFFLE
BOOK LAUNCH "The Slippery Art of Book Reviewing" http://www.sharilyle-soffe.com
Please go to http://robinfalls.blogspot.com to comment on Rooter and Snuffle.
to a writer friend asking for help in choosing a title for her new book. Everyone’s
suggestions were great. My friend thanked everyone and announced what she liked
best of all the suggestions. This made me think once again about the titles of my
books. What is wrong and what is right. What steps should I have taken? First I
checked to make sure no other book had their title. I should have checked to see what
results I would get from a major search engine. I would have found that “Lovely Little
Lamb” brings up a porn site. I should have considered what key words are most used
on an amazon.com search; “I’ll Tuck You in, Deer” is border line. It is too long but
descriptive.
This leads into my guest author this week, Shari Lyle-Soffe. I love her unique name for
her series, Rooter and Snuffle. Please read what she has to say about her new book.
- -------------------------------------------------------------
April, thank you for inviting me to talk about my latest book in the Rooter and Snuffle
series, "Trouble Finds Rooter and Snuffle".
As with the first two books, this book is made up of three complete stories about the
mischievous raccoon brothers.
In the first story, Rooter the oldest brother finds a new friend, Twitcher Rabbit. Twitcher
wants Rooter to like only him and Rooter is flattered. But is having only one friend a
good thing?
In the second story, Snuffle is disappointed because of all the things he can't do very
well. Then his brother and some friends teach him a valuable lesson.
In the third story, Rooter and Snuffle's game of pickup twigs is interrupted by the
screams of a friend in trouble. At first the animals feel helpless. Then they realize
together they can make a difference.
Events in the lives of Rooter and Snuffle are based on my childhood as the oldest of
four children, and other children I have known.
Raccoons are a pleasant memory from my childhood and I hope children will enjoy
reading about them as much as I enjoy writing about them.
Kevin Scott Collier's illustrations are delightful. Children always ask if I drew them. They
love the colorful illustrations and so do I.
My publisher is Guardian Angel Publishing and they have done a wonderful job with the
books. They are great to work with. All three books can be found at most online and
brick and mortar book stores. http://www.amazon.com/Trouble-Finds-Rooter-Snuffle-
Lyle-Soffe/dp/1933090723/ref=sr_1_3?ie=UTF8&s=books&qid=1210855639&sr=8-3
Children and parents alike can visit my webpage at http://www.rooterandsnuffle.
blogspot.com
where they will find more information about Rooter and Snuffle and other characters
from the books. There is wonderful information available there about raccoons. They
will also find printable coloring pages and raccoon games to play.
I love animals and am donating part of my royalties from these books to Wildlife
Images, a wildlife rehabilitation and education facility here in Oregon
Shari Lyle-Soffe
ROOTER AND SNUFFLE
BOOK LAUNCH "The Slippery Art of Book Reviewing" http://www.sharilyle-soffe.com
Please go to http://robinfalls.blogspot.com to comment on Rooter and Snuffle.
Don't trust the Spell Checker
One of my Yahoo Groups is having a discussion on finding your own mistakes in your
own work. We all agree that the spell checker is to blame. Someone submitted the
following to prove our conclusion.
SPELL CHECKER (author unknown, but hats off to them!) Eye halve a spelling
checker; It came with my pea sea. It plainly marks four my revue, Miss steaks eye kin
knot sea. Eye strike a key and type a word, And weight four it two say, Weather eye am
wrong oar write; It shows me strait a weigh. As soon as a mist ache is maid, It nose
bee fore two long. And eye can put the error rite; Its rare lea ever wrong. Eye have run
this poem threw it; I am shore your pleased two no, Its letter perfect awl the weigh. My
spell checker tolled me sew !
One of my Yahoo Groups is having a discussion on finding your own mistakes in your
own work. We all agree that the spell checker is to blame. Someone submitted the
following to prove our conclusion.
SPELL CHECKER (author unknown, but hats off to them!) Eye halve a spelling
checker; It came with my pea sea. It plainly marks four my revue, Miss steaks eye kin
knot sea. Eye strike a key and type a word, And weight four it two say, Weather eye am
wrong oar write; It shows me strait a weigh. As soon as a mist ache is maid, It nose
bee fore two long. And eye can put the error rite; Its rare lea ever wrong. Eye have run
this poem threw it; I am shore your pleased two no, Its letter perfect awl the weigh. My
spell checker tolled me sew !
My Interview with Lena Dooley
If you are interested in free books, I want to tell you about an interview I gave
that has been posted on the web by my friend, Author Lena Dooley. She offers a
free book each week, donated by the author she interviews. I would love for you
to go to her site and comment on my interview thereby entering you in the
drawing for my free children’s book “A Message of Love”. The blogsite is
http//lenanelsondooley.blogspot.com You might want to make this a weekly
practice, more than children’s books are given away. If you are a lucky sort, you
won’t mind the 1 in 25 odds.
If you are interested in free books, I want to tell you about an interview I gave
that has been posted on the web by my friend, Author Lena Dooley. She offers a
free book each week, donated by the author she interviews. I would love for you
to go to her site and comment on my interview thereby entering you in the
drawing for my free children’s book “A Message of Love”. The blogsite is
http//lenanelsondooley.blogspot.com You might want to make this a weekly
practice, more than children’s books are given away. If you are a lucky sort, you
won’t mind the 1 in 25 odds.