A giggle poem – ‘Shopping’

Today I am feeling a little overwhelmed with everything I am trying to get done. What’s new! So what do I do?

Instead of knuckling down, karate chopping items from my ‘TO DO’ list, I have just rifled wasted time through my computer files to download a giggle poem from my children’s poetry book, Bubble Gum Trouble and Other Giggle Poems. Of course that is what I should be doing.

Anyway, here it is. It is a little bit how I feel today. Hopefully it will make you smile. Also the cute picture is by the talented Dee Texidor.

 
Well, I’d better get back to that ‘TO DO’ list.

xHelen

Help save the orangutan

Hi everyone

From Google images

I don’t normally stand up on my box and preach or ask you to sign any petitions. But the following information is close to my heart. It is also a little different from my normal posts. So I would appreciate it if you would read on. But you may wish to grab a cuppa first.

And before I prattle on – if you don’t feel comfortable signing the petition that is okay. But this information may just open your eyes a little if you are not familiar with the devastation caused by the cultivation of crops to produce palm oil.

So off I go ….

I have boycotted palm oil products for years (as best as I knowingly can) due to the devastating effect it has on native flora and fauna, particularly orangutans. Orangutans are facing extinction unless we do something about it.

So I have just put together (quickly) some information if you don’t know much about the destruction that has already been done and continues to be done (often illegally) due to the cultivation of crops to produce palm oil (or oil palm).

And if you feel the plight of the orangutans could you kindly sign the petition link at the end of my sermon.

And thanks for reading on.

tropoical-rainforest-animals.com

Orangutans are facing extinction due to the unsustainable production of palm oil, an ingredient estimated to be in half of all supermarket products, including food products, cleaning products, detergents/washing powders and liquids, cosmetics, and candles. Australian consumers currently can’t tell whether they are contributing to this crisis because most manufacturers are not transparent about their use of palm oil or their sources. Reference: http://www.zoo.org.au/get-involved/act-for-wildlife/dont-palm-us-off

Worldwide demand for palm oil has increased sharply over the last few years. With 54 million tons in 2011, it is the most widely produced vegetable oil worldwide. It has the highest yield of any oil crop and is the cheapest vegetable oil to produce and refine.

Its properties make it highly versatile in the food and chemical industries. It has a high melting point, making it smooth and easy to spread. Reference: http://www.rainforest-rescue.org/topics/palm-oil

However, oil palm (palm oil) plantation will only last for approximately 20 to 50 years before then the soil is completely drained of its vital nutrients and the palm trees too matured to produce palm fruit. As such, palm oil is very much a short-term commodity, and not a long-term sustainable solution. Reference: http://www.saynotopalmoil.com/

In South-East Asia, alone, the likely equivalent of 300 football fields are deforested every hour, resulting in the deaths of more than 1,000 orangutans each year. Some 90% of orangutan habitat has been lost and at the current rate of deforestation, orangutans could be extinct in the wild in less than 10 years. Reference: http://www.wwf.org.au/our_work/saving_the_natural_world/forests/palm_oil/palm_oil_and_deforestation/

Yes Government and organisations can argue that oil palm is a valuable economic crop providing a source of local employment. But what about the prolific destruction of virgin rainforest and subsequent loss of habitat for endangered species like Orangutans, tigers and many other species of flora and fauna?

Furthermore, ‘orangutans are a vital part of the rainforest ecosystem in South-East Asia. They are a keystone species. For example, orangutans help spread many tree seeds; many of which can only germinate once they have passed through the gut of an orangutan. These beautiful apes are vital in order to preserve the delicate ecosystems of Borneo and Sumatra and maintain the rich bio-diversity of Fauna and Flora in these dense jungles. Orangutans cannot live without the rainforest, and the rainforest cannot live without orangutans.’ Reference: http://www.saynotopalmoil.com/

Why you are being asked to sign a petition:

Right now in one of Indonesia’s most pristine and untouched forests, a local Governor wants to let mining and palm oil companies move in to decimate areas the size of a million football fields! And the national Forestry Ministry looks like it might let him unless the President steps in to reject this orangutan-killing plan.

Where will this petition be sent?

It is addressed to:
To President Susilo Bambang Yudhoyono of Indonesia, Minister of Forestry Zulkifli Hasan, and Governor of Aceh Zaini Abdullah:

‘As concerned citizens we urge you to reject the plan to cut down protected rainforests in Aceh. Indonesia’s majestic forests are a global treasure, and we encourage engagement with the local community to develop a plan that prioritises sustainable development, and that protects this fragile ecosystem and the animals that live there.’

If you are happy to add your signature please click on the following link:

Petition link:

http://www.avaaz.org/en/the_plan_to_kill_orangutans_loc/?bRDCNab&v=24981

The signed petition will be passed on by:
Rudi Putra in Indonesia, with the whole Avaaz

http://www.avaaz.org

http://futurefornature.org/person/rudi-hadiansyah-putra-indonesia/

Avaaz is a global web movement to bring people-powered politics to decision-making everywhere.

Avaaz is a non-profit organization that receives no money from government or corporations–we rely entirely on donations from the public.

References:
http://www.zoo.org.au/get-involved/act-for-wildlife/dont-palm-us-off

http://www.orangepower.com.au/palm-oil-free/

http://www.rainforest-rescue.org/topics/palm-oil

More information:

http://www.thejakartaglobe.com/nvironment/indonesia-moves-towards-approving-deforestation-plan-in-aceh/586752

Mining company working with Indonesian government to strip forest of protected status (The Guardian)
http://www.guardian.co.uk/environment/2013/apr/17/mining-indonesian-forest

Govt to extend forestry moratorium over business objections: Deputy Minister (Jakarta Post)
http://www.thejakartapost.com/news/2013/05/12/govt-extend-forestry-moratorium-over-business-objections-deputy-minister.html

President Yudhoyono promises to dedicate the next three years to protecting Indonesia’s forests (REDD monitor)
http://www.redd-monitor.org/2011/09/28/president-yudhoyono-promises-to-dedicate-the-next-three-years-to-protecting-indonesias-forests/

Conservation scientists: Aceh’s spatial plan a risk to forests, wildlife, and people (Mongabay)
http://news.mongabay.com/2013/0322-atbc-aceh-declaration.html

Indonesia’s Protected Rainforests Disappearing (Huffington Post)
http://www.huffingtonpost.com/dr-reese-halter/indonesias-protected-rain_b_2944815.html

Aceh draft bylaw risks forests, say activists (Jakarta Post)
http://www.thejakartapost.com/news/2013/03/14/aceh-draft-bylaw-risks-forests-say-activists.html

Rudi H. Putra: Winner 2013 Future For Nature
http://futurefornature.org/person/rudi-hadiansyah-putra-indonesia

Dandelion – A Book of Hope for Children being bullied

National Day of Action Against Bullying and Violence is held on March 15.

Bullying (including cyber-bullying) should never be tolerated – ever!

A staggering one in six children are being bullied each week, according to a 2009 report by Edith Cowan University. ‘A quarter of students between year 4 and year 9 reported being bullied at least once over the few weeks the research was undertaken,’ School Education Minister Peter Garrett said in November last year. ‘One in five students has experienced some form of cyber-bullying. This means every family either has a child, or knows one, who is being bullied at school.’

A new children’s picture book release, Dandelion is a great jump-off point for parents and teachers to discuss bullying.

Dandelion
A book of hope for children being bullied
Published by Random House Australia
Released: 2 April 2013 in hardback. RRP $19.95
ISBN 9780857981028
Released 15 March 2013 as an eBook
ISBN 9780857981035

Written by Sydney father of three Galvin Scott Davis in response to his son being bullied, Dandelion tells the story of Benjamin Brewster, who hates going to school because he’s being picked on. Blowing on a dandelion, Benjamin wishes for better things . . . if only his school would disappear, or even the bullies. Neither do, and while Benjamin never confronts his tormentors, he does come to realise his imagination makes him stronger than them.

‘With all my might, you’ll all take flight.
If I could but wish for better things . . .
You’d all disperse and grow your wings.’

Benjamin Brewster is drawn without a face, making it easy for children to insert themselves into the story.The cinematic Tim Burtonesque-style illustrations by Anthony Ishinjerro help to transport readers to a world unlike any other – a world where creativity is embraced to solve problems and a place where adults and children can comfortably discuss bullying and methods for copying with it.

Dandelion began life as an app in 2012 after Galvin Scott Davis received kick-starter funding from the US. By late 2012 it had shot to fame as one of the #1 book apps in the Australian Apple iTunes store. At this time Galvin also received his first round of media attention, with articles appearing across Australia.

While Galvin initially self-published a limited number of hardback copies of Dandelion, he was excited when Random House Australia acquired the rights to the book, saying that he was looking forward to spreading the message to the wider community.

About the author

GALVIN SCOTT DAVIS is an award-winning writer and Creative Director of digital media company, Protein. Dandelion has become one of the year’s stand out literary campaigns. He is also a prolific speaker who gives talks on creativity and innovation. Galvin most recently gave a talk at the Museum of Contemporary Art alongside John Marsden and Clover Moore. There is an opportunity for Galvin to give talks about creativity and how it can shift thinking on bullying as well as book reading for classes.

Galvin lives in Marrickville, Sydney, with his wife and three sons. Galvin is available for interview and book signings

Dandelion was published as an e-book on 15 March 2013, the National Day of Action Against Bullying, and as a hardcover picture book on 1 April.

Read more

•
http://www.news.com.au/technology/smartphones/dad-fights-bullies-with-ipad-app/story-fn6vihic-1226426038025
•
http://ministers.deewr.gov.au/garrett/be-bold-stop-bullying-facebook-campaign-launch

Further resources
Teachers resources available at
http://www.randomhouse.com.au/teachers
The teacher’s notes demonstrate how important and positive this book has become to reading lists.

Information taken from Dandelion’s media release.

Stay tuned for my review later this week.

A Summer Renga – completed

In February this year I posted that I joined eight poets at Karawatha State Forest (Brisbane) for a summer ginko (haiku walk) with the talented poet Graham Nunn.

Then from that time till mid April we worked on a renga (collaborative poem) using the following form: [SU = summer; A = autumn; W = winter; SP = spring; Misc. = non-seasonal references -- usually about people or feelings or places; Love]

It was a great experience working with these talented poets with a diversity of voices. It certainly unearthed me from my comfort zone of writing humorous poetry for children. It helped stretch me as a poet of haiku (I’m still very much a novice) and Graham’s advice was always invaluable. I learnt so much from this experience.

Now it has been completed, Graham has posted the links to each quarter of the renga on his blog, Another Lost Shark. Incase you haven’t checked out the completed renga, just follow the direct links below:

So drum roll please …

Snake Renga – written by/between: David Stavanger, Andy Smerdon, Cindy Keong, Katherine Battersby, Graham Nunn, Chris Lynch, Trish Reid, John Wainwright, Helen Ross (me) and Andrew Phillips

Part 1:
http://anotherlostshark.com/2013/02/23/snake-weather-a-summer-renga/

Part 2:
http://anotherlostshark.com/2013/03/05/snake-weather-a-summer-renga-part-ii/

Part 3:
http://anotherlostshark.com/2013/03/26/snake-weather-a-summer-renga-part-iii/

Part 4
http://anotherlostshark.com/2013/04/18/snake-weather-a-summer-renga-part-iv/

As I was in Japan at the time that we were working on the final quarter, you will notice my Japanese inspired contribution (couldn’t help but be inspired by the beautiful cherry blossoms).

I think the renga has shaped up beautifully. And though I was always nervous when it was my turn to contribute, I still enjoyed the whole experience.

So thanks Graham, David, Andy, Cindy, Katherine, Chris, Trish, John and Andrew. You are all so inspirational.

xHelen

April Fool poem

Hope you all had a wonderful Easter.

Well, it is the start of a new month. But beware of the jokers as today is April Fool’s Day.

So thought I’d post my April Fool poem from my giggle poetry book, Bubble Gum Trouble And Other Giggle Poems.

APRIL FOOL

You’ve dropped your head
You’ve dropped a tool
Look behind you
April Fool

What’s on your back?
Watch the stool!
Look you’re falling
April Fool

You’ve won a prize
It’s a swimming pool
You lucky thing
April Fool

No running outside
It’s the school’s new rule
Go to the Principal
April Fool

Have you been outside?
In your yard there’s a mule
Eating your flowers
April Fool

I love your sunglasses
You look so cool
You’re wanted for a movie
April Fool

xHave a great day, and a wonderful month.

Bubble Gum Trouble And Other Giggle Poems - published 2009 by Little Steps publishing (Division of New Frontier. Illustrations by Dee Texidor.

Don’t stop thinking about tomorrow. Or should we?

NB: Early readers of this post would have noticed the title change. Unfortunately, I forgot to change the working title, ‘Fleetwood Mac’ before I hit the ‘publish’ button.

This post was inspired by a horoscope ‘reading’ I found in a Melbourne newspaper last year. (Herald Sun. Weekend Astrologer Jonathan Cainer). Gasp! Yes, I have mentioned before that I do read my Scorpio horoscope – Oh no Helen! – not because I want to know the future (though it would be handy at times) but some ‘readings’ can be very inspirational and philosophical. Well, that is my story, and I’m sticking to it!

The ‘reading’ started with:

‘Don’t stop thinking about tomorrow,’ so goes the Fleetwood Mac song.

Then it addressed the importance of thinking about today – being in the here and now.

So here are my thoughts -

I agree. I think we can get caught up in our dreams that we forget about living for today. We work so hard and focus on our creative endeavours that we can forget to stop and smell the roses. Guilt reigns when we go out for coffee with a friend, or take time out. Guilt gives me headaches and slaps my wrists, when I should just be enjoying my very hot soy flat white. And my friend’s company. Really!? Time out with a friend isn’t going to ruin your writing career.

I know of one writer who was reluctant to go away with her husband on an overseas holiday as it was going to ‘interfere’ with her writing. What the? You give me the word baby and I will have my bag packed, passport in bag, and be ready before you can slip the car keys into your jacket to drive me to the airport. Or before you can ring a taxi.

Anyway, glad to report that the writer’s family won!

And while we are on this topic – as writers, we can write anywhere. Secondly, travel can inspire you – breathe new life into you, and your work. You can feel stale sitting for hours, days on end, in your study. I can feel the walls closing in. Thirdly, you gotta live damn it! Taking time out is a great idea, and what about your family or cat? Your family needs to be with you. And a Mediterranean cruise might be just what you need. And these days, you can’t (generally speaking) use the excuse that you don’t have anyone to look after your animals (Hmm. Not sure about the llama though) , as there are some great holiday places for them – I’ve heard of dog and cat holiday homes with carpet and piped music. Hmmm! That might be my next puurrrfect holiday spot!

But on the flip side, we must not stop dreaming. I believe dreams are blueprints for what we create in the future. Dreams give us hope and drive. And purpose.

The important thing is to find that balance.

But shouldn’t we think ahead. What if?

Yes, one of the things that many humans do well (most mothers are exceptionally good at this) is worry. The good ol’, ‘What if?’

How many times have we been certain that something bad was going to happen, but it didn’t? Or ‘What if this …. ?’ And the ‘What if that …. ?’ What? They never happened? No!

One of my friends made ‘worry’ a great past-time. She was exceptional at it. Till one day, she got the light bulb moment. Her children had grown up, and were having their own children. And as much as she loved them, and wanted the best for them, it was time to stop worrying about everything (including, whether she had turned off the iron every time she went out). And guess what? Since this epiphany she looks ten years younger. Now her biggest concern is what to pack during her many overseas travels.

Worrying takes up a lot of energy. It is very taxing and time consuming. And can just chip away at you. It is also non-productive.

So,

‘Live for the moment!” How many times have we heard or read that?

There is (in my book) nothing wrong with thinking about ‘tomorrow’, especially if you have travel plans, catching up with someone special, working on projects, visualising a dream come true, or similar. Maybe you can’t wait till your book is published. These are exciting things and can give such a boost to your happiness scale.

But don’t forget today. Otherwise it seems that we are just letting the days pass by till that special moment arrives. Of course, as writers, we do need to work on our novel or short stories, etc. otherwise, they won’t get finished. And looming deadlines do take priority. But deadlines don’t last forever.

Before I finish my rant. I know sad and bad things happen. And depending on the circumstance, the healing process may take some time. In these cases, the lyrics of Fleetwood Mac’s song may offer some hope.

Anyway, enough of my sermon. And, if, like me, you are a Fleetwood Mac fan, crank up the volume. It is a great song.

Fleetwood Mac’S Don’t Stop Lyrics
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Tm0nopK1BQM

Songwriters: LINDSTROM, ULF / EKHE, JOHAN / KARLSSON, SANNE
Written by Christine McVie.

If you wake up and don’t want to smile,
If it takes just a little while,
Open your eyes and look at the day,
You’ll see things in a different way.

Don’t stop, thinking about tomorrow,
Don’t stop, it’ll soon be here,
It’ll be, better than before,
Yesterday’s gone, yesterday’s gone.

Why not think about times to come,
And not about the things that you’ve done,
If your life was bad to you,
Just think what tomorrow will do.

Don’t stop, thinking about tomorrow,
Don’t stop, it’ll soon be here,
It’ll be, better than before,
Yesterday’s gone, yesterday’s gone.

All I want is to see you smile,
If it takes just a little while,
I know you don’t believe that it’s true,
I never meant any harm to you.

Don’t stop, thinking about tomorrow,
Don’t stop, it’ll soon be here,
It’ll be, better than before,
Yesterday’s gone, yesterday’s gone.

Don’t you look back,
Don’t you look back.
Send “Don’t Stop” Ringtone to your Cell
Don’t Stop lyrics © Sony/ATV Music Publishing LLC, Warner/Chappell Music, Inc., EMI Music Publishing, Universal Music Publishing Group, Kobalt Music Publishing Ltd.

http://www.lyricsfreak.com/f/fleetwood+mac/dont+stop_20054276.html

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Tm0nopK1BQM

xHelen

As usual, I’d love to hear from you. So please drop by and leave your comment.

World of Ink presents Scott Caseley – Author Spotlight.

Throughout March and April 2013, The World of Ink Network is touring author Scott R. Caseley’s young adult romantic coming of age mystery novel, Isosceles - published by MuseItUp Publishing, January 2013.

And today the virtual tour stops by my blog with an Author Spotlight feature. Lucky me!

So welcome Scott.

Thanks Helen for hosting me during my virtual blog tour.

My pleasure Scott.

First, could you tell us a little about yourself, and your passions.

This is my first novel, but I have written and directed a dramatic feature, co-written and directed a documentary and also written for an online magazine.

I am a trained voice, stage, and screen actor. In addition to my creative pursuits, I am passionate about healthy living and follow a mostly self-directed fitness quest consisting of weight training, walking, swimming, yoga, and hula hooping. When not working out, I also enjoy cooking healthy gourmet meals as well as playing board games with family and friends – with plenty of coffee brewing to keep the fun going until the wee hours of the morning.

Yes, I can relate to the aroma of coffee brewing until the wee hours.

What a busy and creative life you lead. I have heard hula hooping is a great way to exercise and tone. No doubt it is a lot of fun! You certainly have a lot of passions – I bet you are never bored.

***

Scott, it is always exciting to find out about an author’s first book.

Please tell us about your book Isosceles.

When Sean McIntyre finds his best friend Trey Goodsby dead and almost completely submerged in a bathtub filled with bloody water, he is determined to find out if it was an accident or suicide. Did his death, accidental or intentional, have anything to do with Madeline Edwards, the woman who came between them constantly through their thirteen-year friendship?

The tale begins with the death of Trey Goodsby, and explores his relationships with family, friends, his romances, and which of the circumstances he found himself in that led to the tragic event, and the repercussions for those he left behind.

Helen, the underlying question here is that
If you have that feeling that you’re coming up short…what will it take to feel equal?

Scott, I like the mix of romance and mystery – it sounds like an intriguing read.

Are you able to give us a sneak preview/excerpt of your book?

It would be my pleasure Helen.

Book excerpt”
“Go over to the play area. I’ll deal with you once I’m done with…ah…whatever his name is.” Carter nodded to where the rest of the kids kneeled, stood, or sat on a blue carpet, watching a boy building with wooden toy blocks. Right away, I could sense he intended on crafting something difficult, a scale model of the courthouse down the road from Footbridge. While the boy’s physical appearance seemed rather ordinary, his skills could not be beat. He hadn’t misused a single block. Without any hesitation or second-guessing himself, he knew what to do to put everything in the right place.

“That’s so cool, Trey,” I heard a soft voice like the melodious whisper of birdsong, my intuition revealing the identity before my eyes did. Madeline swayed from side to side, beaming with her pearly-whites.

Trey paid her no mind though, allowing himself to be distracted only by his overgrown dirty-blonde hair, which kept going in his face. Sometimes, he didn’t even push it away. His focus so intense, a few times, he almost knocked into other kids. He never apologized for it, nor did most get upset. They seemed to understand he was in a zone, one with his creation. He circled the perimeter to detect if it needed something. Whenever he snapped his fingers, he’d call out “cylinder,” “triangle,” or “rectangle.” Madeline would select it out of a decaying cardboard box, to present it to him like an obedient puppy bringing a tennis ball to its owner.

Mr. Carter, with Sheldon behind him, returned from their business in the hallway. They joined the rest of us, studying Trey’s handiwork. Before long, Mr. Carter became entranced, too. It felt frustrating. Being an only child, I was used to being the center of my parents’ universe. Here, someone else stole the attention so rightfully mine. Worst of all, watching Madeline fawn over him drove me crazy. His hair was messy, his shirt dirty, and he was just average. Why did he hold her interest? Shouldn’t she see me instead? Mom knitted me this nice sweater and combed my hair before I went to the bus stop. My head started pounding from over-thinking the situation when Madeline moved toward him, letting her pigtail accidentally brush against his head. He didn’t seem to notice, but I sure did. I needed to take action.
Creeping over to the box of blocks less than five feet from the audience, I reached in blindly selecting a triangle-shaped one with green crayon on the side facing up. With everyone so enamoured by the courthouse, they didn’t even notice my hands trembling at my side with rage. Giving one last furtive glance to Trey, Madeline, Mr. Carter, and then ending on my classmates, I felt ready to execute the plan.

Many of the other kids started to pick up on my actions, giving me a brief moment of satisfaction. Their jaws dropped as they watched the projectile block following a jagged path through their makeshift circle. Of course, motor coordination issues since birth and anger clouded my vision. Translation: my aim was inaccurate.

The block went careening through the air, never even coming close to its intended target. Trey knew no fear, however. He must’ve sensed my imprecise aim the moment it left my unsteady hand. Without raising an eyebrow, let alone diverting his eyes from his structure, his arm swatted the wooden toy away like a fly. It changed course to come crashing down onto the bridge of my Madeline’s button nose. I’m not sure what started to pour first, the blood from her nostrils or the tears from her green eyes.

The bloodstained triangle ricocheted off her face to the courthouse, knocking it down like dominoes. At the same time, Madeline wailed in pain. Trey’s eyes cast down at his destroyed masterpiece, over to her, and finally to the crowd of spectators, with a cold, soulless expression. He breathed heavily out of his nose, needing to know who ruined his work. Sheldon, along with two other snitches, fingered me for the crime.

Well you have me hooked Scott. I wish you all the best with your book, and hope you are enjoying your virtual tour.

Thanks again, Helen. It was my pleasure.

If you’d like to read more, details below.
Publisher information.

Publisher: MuseItUp Publishing
eBook ISBN: 978-1-77127-239-1
Publication Date: January 2013
Genre of Book: Young Adult- Coming Of Age, Mystery/Romance

Stockists: MuseItUpPublishing.com, Amazon.com, Bookstrand, Omnilit, Kobo, Smashwords and B&N

For more information:

You can find out more about Scott R. Caseley, his novel and World of Ink Author/Book Tour at http://tinyurl.com/c85xoz4

Follow Scott R. Caseley at:

Blog Address: http://www.scottrcaseleyauthor.com
Twitter URL: twitter.com/scottrcaseley
Facebook Fan Page URL: https://www.facebook.com/ScottRCaseleyWriter
Publisher Website: http://museituppublishing.com

Don’t forget to follow Scott Caseley during his World of Ink Tour.

~WOI Tour Schedule~

March 4th
World of Ink Network blog—Spotlight
http://worldofinknetwork.blogspot.com

March 6th
BlogCritics—Author Spotlight
http://blogcritics.org/culture/feature/mom-prefers/

March 8th
Jo Linsdell blog—Featured Friday
http://jolinsdell.blogspot.com

March 11th
Stories for Children Show (Live/Podcast)
http://blogtalkradio.com/worldofinknetwork

March 12th
Rambling of a Coffee Addicted Writer—Guest Post: Why did you pick Isosceles for your book title?
www.coffeeaddictedwriter.com

March 13th
Writing Blind—Spotlight
http://tracimcdonald.blogspot.com/

March 14th
Fearless Writer’s Blog—Spotlight
http://irenesroth.wordpress.com/2013/03/14/meet-scott-r-caseley/

March 15th
The Phantom Paragrapher—Book Review
http://www.thephantomparagrapher.blogspot.com

March 18th
Miss Helen Writes—Spotlight
http://misshelenwrites.wordpress.com

March 19th
The Writing Mama—Book Review
http://thewritingmama.blogspot.com

March 20th
Indie & Debut Author Interviews—Spotlight
http://interviwingauthors.blogspot.com

March 21st
Families Matter—Book Review
http://familiesmatter2us.blogspot.com

March 22nd
Families Matter—Interview
http://familiesmatter2us.blogspot.com

March 25th
World of Ink Network blog—Book Review
http://worldofinknetwork.blogspot.com

March 26th
Fearless Writer’s blog—Interview
http://irenesroth.wordpress.com/

March 27th
Putting Words Down on Paper–Interview
http://susannedrazic.blogspot.com/

March 28th
Writers and Authors—Guest Post: Author Pick Topic
http://writersandauthors.blogspot.com

March 29th
Writing Blind—Author Review
http://tracimcdonald.blogspot.com/

April 2nd
The New Book Review
http://thenewbookreview.blogspot.com

April 3rd
The Phantom Paragrapher—Guest Post: 600 words-Author Pick Topic
http://www.thephantomparagrapher.blogspot.com

April 4th
Rambling of a Coffee Addicted Writer–Interview
www.coffeeaddictedwriter.com

April 5th
Antagonize Me—Character Interview
http://antagonistinterviews.blogspot.com/

April 8th
Mymcbooks blog—Spotlight/Giveaway
http://mymcbooks.wordpress.com

April 9th
The Bumpy Road—Guest Post: Plotting a Mystery
http://thebumpyroadtopublishing.blogspot.com

April 10th
Stories a la Mode—Book Review
http://barbarabockman.wordpress.com

April 11th
Inspiring Books & Products—Book Review
http://rothsinspiringbooksandproducts.wordpress.com

April 12th
Strands of Thought—Character Interview
http://kaistrand.blogspot.com/

April 15th
Blogcritics—Book Review
http://blogcritics.org/books/

April 16th
American Chronicle—Spotlight Interview
http://www.americanchronicle.com/

April 17th
The Writing Mama—Guest Post: Author Pick
http://thewritingmama.blogspot.com

April 18th
American Chronicle—Book Review
http://www.americanchronicle.com/

April 22nd
Book Reviews by Lynn—Book Spotlight/Giveaway

http://www.angelpages.biz/page.php?e=4BOOKREVIEWSBYLYNN

April 23rd
Families Matter—Interview
http://familiesmatter2us.blogspot.com

April 25th
Deal Sharing Aunt—Book Review
http://www.dealsharingaunt.blogspot.com

For more information about the World of Ink Tours visit http://worldofinknetwork.com

Copyrighted Materials by World Of Ink – All rights reserved

Edgar Allan Poe App

It is raining here in Brisbane (Australia) – again.

So, thought I’d do a little reading. I loooove books, especially new books – cracking open the cover is very exciting for me, especially when it is from an author I love. I can’t wait to take my new ‘babies’ home to meet their new family - ie. the other books on my bookshelf. I can feel their excitement as they (yes, I normally buy more than one at a time) jump up and down in my bag – Yay! we have a home.

As such I have been a little reticent about buying Book Apps but thought it time to delve into this ‘new’ (well, new for me) world.

So this week I downloaded six children’s Book/Apps: two were free.

Well, I am excited. I will tell you more about two of the other Books/Apps in a forthcoming post – because I think they are great.

But the one that excited me today were stories by Edgar Allan Poe. Author Karen Robertson actually recommended this one in one of her posts, so thought I’d check it out.

I just loved it. The iPoe Collection includes four interactive and illustrated stories, plus a biography and sketch book. The music is very apt, and has some wonderful moments.

I downloaded this App for free – Free today in the App Store.

https://itunes.apple.com/en/app/id507407813

This is a great book/App to read snuggled up in bed at night, with just a night lamp on – would really help set the mood.

So if you love creepy stories and Book Apps, go check it out. Even just for the eyeball in The Tell-Tale Heart.

Tips and services for ‘newbie’ children’s book writers

Please note: I have edited this post since it was first published on 6 March 2013).

Every so often, a children’s writer/poet emails me for my advice. Yikes!

I admit that I have many teaching years under my belt (like many writers). This experience includes primary and kindergarten teaching (including ESL groups), and 17 years in TAFE Queensland (8-9 years teaching/lecturing in Business Communication subjects, and 9+ years in ESL/Language/Literacy programs). I have written many a letter and edited many more Managing Directors’ letters whilst a secretary/private secretary/administration officer in industry (many, many moons ago). My article writing endeavours include writing (and editing the editor’s articles) for a community magazine and compiling a regular newsletter when I was secretary for a canoe club. I have completed a few writing courses (both long and short) with the hope of improving my skills as a children’s picture book writer, poet and article writer. And I have had work published.

But when I receive an email asking for advice on children’s book writing I question my ability to assist, yet feel a sense of ‘maybe I can help’. I know basic grammar and do have an eye for spotting recalcitrant commas and punctuation marks. But beyond that, I don’t feel confident ‘assessing’ a fellow writer’s manuscript. My ‘fear’ is that I don’t want to steer another writer in the wrong direction. Don’t get me wrong! – I feel very humble and grateful that someone has asked for my advice, but I also know there are a lot more seasoned children’s book writers out there.

And readers of this blog will know that I hardly ever give my own writing tips as there are many writers’ blogs that give fabulous information and tips. However, after replying to a number of emails requesting some assistance, I thought I’d share the names of people in the children’s book industry who have helped me. I know these experts will give you wonderful advice if you need it. And they offer their services at very reasonable rates. There are of course many other writers and manuscript assessors who give great information and if you are a ‘newbie’ children’s book writer, I would recommend speaking to other writers for their recommendations.

The following recommendations/suggestions are just the ‘services/resources’ I have used – just somewhere to get you started. Please note that although these experts live in Australia, their services are available to writers everywhere through their e-courses, virtual workshops, e-books, published books and assessment services via email, etc. I have included recommendations under subheadings, plus some tips.

Improving your rhyming skills:
Rhyming well is actually very hard to do. Many publishers don’t or won’t accept rhyming text as they don’t believe that many writers do it well. Rhyming text is more than just getting the words at the end of lines to rhyme. It is also a matter of meter, word stresses and getting the flow right. It takes time and practice to get it right, but it can be learnt.

Learn the rules. However, once you know the rules, they can be broken (I believe) if it suits the text and deemed appropriate.

My suggestions for learning about rhyme and rhythm:
Jackie Hosking
E-book: Rhyme Like the experts – How to make your writing sing. By Jackie Hosking. Cost $10.00 AU -Order from her site: http://www.jackiehoskingpio.wordpress.com This can be easily downloaded; very easy reading – clear to understand. Purchase link is on right hand side bar of her site. Jackie also critiques poetry, particularly rhyming poetry. She is an excellent poet and assessor, and offers very reasonable rates. And she really will make your poetry sing!
Assessments sent via emails. More details on her site.

Sally Odgers
http://www.affordablemanuscriptsassessments.com
Sally has also written a book on writing metrical verse. Includes great exercises. Details below.
Writing Metrical Verse -
$6.25 USD download
$8.02 USD paperback
Sally is a very talented and prolific children’s writer, and has years of writing and assessment experience. Sally assesses rhyme and prose. Again at reasonable prices.

I have used both Sally and Jackie to critique mss (Jackie for rhyming verse and Sally for prose) and both have given invaluable advice.

Improving your story:
If you have written a story in rhyme, try writing it in prose. It may sound better.

Many writers who ask for my advice send me a story in rhyme. Most of the time these stories don’t seem to gel as the writers seem more intent on finding rhyming words than making the story come to life. And sometimes writers put too much unnecessary information in their stories. This is where illustrations are so important. The illustrations should not only be wonderful but used to complement and add to the story. (Please note: I am not an assessor, and always encourage writers to seek professional advice.)

Another issue I find is that most ‘first time’ writers don’t seem to edit their work. They finish a story and think that is it. What they have finished is really their first draft.

You may need to do a number of rewrites. Writing the perfect children’s picture book is not easy. I have literally done 100 rewrites on just one verse of a children’s story in rhyme. After endless hours of editing, it is recommended to put your manuscript away for a while and look again with fresh eyes. Some writers recommend ‘hiding’ your ms for at least six weeks, others will recommend six months. Here you need patience. Many ‘first- time’ writers are just rearing to go and just want to send their work to a publisher as soon as they think their story is finished.

When you ‘revisit’ your manuscript with fresh eyes and rework your text as best you can, I’d then recommend using the services of a children’s book assessor. If you are a little impatient and don’t want to bury your ms in a drawer for a while, send your ms to an assessor first – not a publisher. Try not to be precious about your work. You may not always agree with an assessor’s opinions but be open to suggestions. An assessor can help point out issues in your story that you just didn’t see.

My suggestions for writing courses and manuscript assessors:

Sally Odgers
http://www.affordablemanuscriptassessments.com/
Sally will look at the plot, and flow of the story. And give you detailed pointers to think about so you can rework your text.

Sally also offers a Virtual Writing Course, and her services are very affordable. She has published a number of books to assist writers. More details on her website.

Dr Virginia Lowe http://www.createakidsbook.com.au
Dr Virginia Lowe also offers an assessing service as well as a children’s book writing course. I received funding from a Regional Arts Development Grant Queensland (RADF) to complete Dr Lowe’s Createakidsbook e-course. I learnt so much from this course. I completed both the illustrating and writing a children’s book components. Also I would recommend researching grants (local and national) that are available for writers/artists.
More info at.

http://www.createakidsbook.com.au

http://createakidsbook.com.au/e-courses.html

Anyway, hope this helps as a start.

Please note that I have only recommended resources that I have used.

And if you wish to recommend any editing services you have used or writing for children/YA courses you have undertaken, please do so in the comment section for other writers to refer to.

Wishing you all the best.
x Helen

Grammarly Online Proofreader

Please note: I have added further information to this post since it was published on 3 March 2013. Extra info. is towards end of post.

Do you need another set of eyes when proofreading, and some help developing your writing craft?

If so, Grammarly - Online Proofreader to the rescue!

No, I am not being paid any commission, but as I have just found out about this site, I thought it worth passing on. And they have officially reached 3 million registered members.

The following is summarised from their website.

****
The World’s Best Grammar Checker

Grammarly is an automated proofreader and your personal grammar coach. Corrects up to 10 times more mistakes than popular word processors.

Checks for more than 250 types of spelling, grammar and punctuation errors, enhances vocabulary usage and suggests citations. A great resource for self-published authors who could use a helping hand while proofreading.

*****

Unfortunately, at this time, you can’t switch between British/American/Australian English. You can however adjust for how formal the writing is meant to be, anything from “Academic” to “Casual.”

The regular cost is $30 per month, or – if billed in one yearly payment – $12 per month. It is a resource well worth checking out.

Here’s the link -

http://www.grammarly.com/

And if you have tried Grammarly out, I’d be interested in your thoughts.

Wishing everyone a wonderful weekend, and an inspirational March.

xHelen