Books I Like #11

Today we are checking out two cute books for kids!

Samantha Loses the Box Turtle

Samantha Loses the Box Turtle by Daisy Griffin. From Daisy Griffin's website: "The Samantha Series of Children's Illustrated Chapter Books are written by Daisy Griffin and Illustrated by Matthew Gauvin. The books are a fun way for children to get to know more about animals while following eight year old Samantha's story."

I've reviewed this book and enjoyed it! I found it cute and educational for kids. What a fun read. And I especially liked the extra facts about turtles--everything I'd wanted to know about them since I was a kid, reading those "Fudge" books by Judy Blume. Parents will find educational questions in the back, for discussion.




Nimpentoad

Nimpentoad -- Story by Henry, Josh, and Harrison Herz, Art by Sean Eddingfield and Bill Maus.

The Niblings are a group of forest creatures who are slight of build. They've been bullied for a very long time, suffering under the cruelty of Goblins and other meanies. Can the Niblings find a safe haven with a giant?

Beautiful artwork and a compelling story. Really, these art pieces drew me in. What a wonderful interpretation of a story that tackles bullying and stresses perseverance  I especially like the note to parents at the back, which talks about positive lessons like teamwork, creativity and manners. Nice!

Check them out!

-Kara :)

Spell Caster Update!

What's new with the Spell Casters? Check it out!

Audrey Knight has produced another book cover, this time for Simone Snaith's From the Ashes (The Fairville Woods). Beautiful cover and interesting blurb for the book! I'm going to check this one out, for sure.

And she's also designed a T-shirt for Frenchy's:

Deanna Molinaro has been devoting a large portion of her time to help man's best friend. Collin County Dog Rescue is dear to her heart. These dogs need loving forever homes.

From Deanna: "I make videos to show their personalities, take them out to walk/play, and write info about them on the shelter's Facebook page. Here are a couple videos..."

To like the facebook page for these sweethearts that need our help:  https://www.facebook.com/Collincountyanimalsindanger

Sarah Mensinga has been very busy with new creations -- all kinds! But she did have enough time to update her blog with some fun Christmas drawings. Cute! Check out her latest 'additions!' Blog

Mike Gasaway has been gearing up for some big happenings. Busy writing and editing. Check out and stay tuned on his writer's blog. Click the button or the link for him on my blog (right) and it will take you to his site or use this one -->  The Path to a Movie

Jenn Reese will soon release the next installment of her Above World Trilogy. Amazon is doing a preorder sale for Mirage. Be the early bird and get it on sale. Awesome. Check it out! Mirage 

Devin Blake has added a new volume to her graphic novel/comic, Monster Soup called Supernatural High. The cover is stunning! Cover

Eric Drobile has been busy with lots of work and Hatefarm's Mall Monkeys. Mall Monkeys

Well, that's the scoop for now! -Kara :)

Books I Like #10

HUSHED

Hushed by Kelley York. This book might not be for everyone. There is moral ambiguity in this piece, but I found the characters compelling. I understood where they were coming from, even though their actions were often rash and impulsive.

The characters got under my skin and I found myself reflecting back on their decisions days afterward. Not a light romp but worth the read, especially if you like to ponder over poor decisions and angst. It's on my Like List.




REAPER

Reaper (The Riser Saga) by Becca C. Smith. This story takes over where the first left off, and the pace does not slow for one moment, in my humble opinion. I learned more about the character's motivations and backgrounds, how and why they ticked (which is the most compelling thing for me as a reader, right next to character interaction).

Gotta give street cred to an author who makes us empathetic even toward the most deranged characters. Does not disappoint.

Check them out!

-Kara :)

Eleventh Spell Caster on my Website! Jenn Reese!

Happy New Year! I can't think of a more wonderful way to start this year's Spell Caster interviews than with the lovely and talented Jenn Reese.

Multitalented is an understatement! She writes great action romance, fun and engaging books for young adults and kids, and witty short stories and shorts series.  On top of that she studies martial arts and designs covers for ebooks. I suspect that's just the tip of the iceberg. My hunch? She's a renaissance woman, incognito.

It is a pleasure to have her visit my website today!