The World of Ink Network

A GOOD STORY IS A GOOD STORY with Host Marsha Casper Cook 02/29 by WorldOfInkNetwork | Blog Talk Radio

2012-02-29T11:08:00.001-08:00

Join in on Wed Feb.29th at 3PM ET - 2PM CT 1PM MT- NOON PT and have a great time as Marsha Cook and her co- host Elizabeth Black discuss Horror and Dark Fiction.

We will have several authors and it's going to be a lively fun show. The guests are Dana Fredsti, Trent Zelazny, Brent Millis and Christopher Beck. There's a lot to talk about in this Genre so join us and you find out how these wonderful authors have become so successful. Bethany Cross will be there to open the chat room for any questions you might have.

Listen to the show at the link below
A GOOD STORY IS A GOOD STORYwith Host Marsha Casper Cook 02/29 by WorldOfInkNetwork | Blog Talk Radio

A GOOD STORY IS A GOOD STORY with Host Marsha Casper Cook 02/28 by WorldOfInkNetwork | Blog Talk Radio

2012-02-28T06:00:00.000-08:00

Please join Marsha Cook and her co host Bethany Cross on Tuesday Feb. 28 at 9PM ET - 8PM CT 7 PM MT 6PM PT

Also, Bennet Pomerantz will be joing us. It's all about Romance. Once again we have a great show planned - Romance is in the air. Join us in a lively fun discussion. The guests are Wendy Smith, Mollie Fleigel and Michel Prince.

Our guest will be talking about romance , sex and how popular romance books have become.

LISTEN LIVE OR ON DEMAND.
FOR MORE INFO PLEASE GO TO -
http://www.michiganavenuemedia.com/

bethanycross.blogspot.com
http://www.wendysmithbooks.blogspot.com/p/other-author-links-and-info.html

Listen to the show at the link below
A GOOD STORY IS A GOOD STORY with Host Marsha Casper Cook 02/28 by WorldOfInkNetwork | Blog Talk Radio

What Is Success Show with VS Grenier and Marsha Casper Cook 02/24 by WorldOfInkNetwork | Blog Talk Radio

2012-02-24T07:25:00.001-08:00

Join hosts VS Grenier & Marsha Cook on February 24th at 1PM EST – 12PM CT – 11AM MT – 10AM PST.

This is a discussion based show. Marsha and Virginia will be happy to take your calls if you have questions.
Call in number - 714-242-5259

Writing a book can be a challenge enough but when you're looking for a place to start when searching for a writing coach, editor, publisher and someone to help with marketing, the choice are endless and many cost more than you can afford. What is a writer to do? Marsha Casper Cook and Virginia (VS) Grenier have become experts on this very subject and both know there great new companies and people out there who can help. Between them, they have over 50 years of experience with the publishing and marketing world.

Call in, post your questions in our chat room or email your questions to us here at Blog Talk Radio.
Call in number - (714) 242-5259

Info at http://www.michiganavenuemedia.com/ or Visit our blog and learn more about us and our guest at http://worldofinknetwork.blogspot.

Listen to the show here
What Is Success Show with VS Grenier and Marsha Casper Cook 02/24 by WorldOfInkNetwork | Blog Talk Radio

Guest Post: Reaching Your Readership and Including Your Fans in Your Work by Kasey Crawford Kellem

2012-02-21T07:00:00.000-08:00

Without even knowing it, I became a businesswoman upon writing my Mind Over Matter Books for children. I guess I never thought the whole process through and just believed that somehow the books would magically get into the hands of all children. I learned real quick that was not the case and that I had to creatively market these books immediately!

Since my Mind Over Matter Books are for children, I knew I had to educate and spark the interest of parents, grandparents, teachers, care givers and anyone who has children in their lives. Being somewhat techno-savvy, I created a website introducing the first book out in print, Believe. Social Media certainly has been a blessing in many ways! I was able to link my website onto my Facebook page to get the information out to people. I then created a Facebook page for Mind Over Matter Books and invited about 500 people to “like” my page. I am constantly posting updates on the books, book shows, interviews and other media events on Facebook.

I had heard buzz words like “Blog” and “Tweet” and quickly became a blogger and tweeter to get the information out to all of those who have or work with children. I became a member or LinkedIn and Google+ and have promoted my books and connected with a number of professionals who work with children. Recently, I made a YouTube video, which included illustrations from Believe and an interview I had on the Children’s Authors Show. Within a few months, I had every social media tool and several Internet sites, all informing people about my books and mission, linked together. The word was definitely out!

I have contacted many of the local newspapers, TV stations, radio stations, children’s and parent magazines, PTA groups, preschools, day cares, children’s stores, etc. to tell them about my Mind Over Matter Books. I have entered the book into children’s book expos so that educators and caregivers all over the country will see the book. Believe has been promoted in several local newspapers, all of the area libraries, my church, a popular local radio station and is supposed to be aired on a local news station this month. People believe in Believe!

It is also important for me to work with the actual children. I shared my book at a preschool where I was able to read to several 3-7 years old children. This was a wonderful experience as I found the children really grasping the concept of “Believing” and talking about what they believe about themselves. I am scheduled for a few book signings and readings at local libraries and elementary schools, as well. I hope to get into a number of daycares and preschools over the course of the year to teach the children to believe!

In about 9 months, time I went from simply having a mission to write these Mind Over Matter Books, to being on a mission to get the books in the hands of as many children as possible. Just when I think I have exhausted one avenue another road opens! The movement has begun and parents, teachers and others who work with children are feeling the importance to get this message into the hands of all children. I am grateful for the internet, social media, radio and television, as they have been instrumental in promoting my books and my message to anyone who works with children.

Kasey Crawford Kellem, a School Counselor and former Special Education Teacher, has devoted her life to helping children facing adversity be resilient. Kasey created Mind Over Matter (M.O.M.) books to teach children skills to overcome life’s challenges. She has earned a Bachelors Degree and Masters Degree in Special Education and an Educational Specialist Degree in Counseling. She is a devoted wife, stepmother, sister, daughter, friend and counselor.

Halo Publishing, Int. and the World of Ink Network are sponsoring Kasey Crawford Kellem's World of Ink Tour this February 2012. Kellem will be touring her first book in the Mind Over Matter (M.O.M) Books, BELIEVE, which just released. The additional M.O.M Books are due to release soon later in 2012: LOVE; LAUGH; RELAX and DREAM.

BELIEVE is the first of five books emphasizing the important factors for resiliency. In this book, children will learn to BELIEVE in their possibilities.

About the Books: Mind Over Matter Books are geared towards young children to help them learn how to be resilient. Children need to be prepared with the right tools to face the challenges, adversity and obstacles that may become a part of their lives. This book shows, through whimsical illustrations and simple wording, how to be resilient. These books are designed to also serve as decorations in a child’s bedroom or playroom on bookshelves, nightstands, or desks, which will serve as constant resiliency reinforcement.

Get a sneak peek of the book BELIEVE and listen to an interview with Kasey Crawford Kellem at http://youtu.be/L_PPnSHXzzY

You can find out more about Kasey Crawford Kellem’s World of Ink Author/Book Tour schedule at http://storiesforchildrenpublishing.com/KaseyKellem.aspx. There will be giveaways, reviews, interviews, guest posts and more. Make sure to stop by and interact with Kellem and the hosts at the different stops by leaving comments and/or questions. You will be entered into the main the Book Giveaway each time.

In addition, listen to the February 20, 2012 to Blog Talk Radio’s World of Ink Network show: Stories for Children at http://www.blogtalkradio.com/worldofinknetwork. The hosts VS Grenier and Irene Roth chatted with Kasey Crawford Kellem about her M.O.M Books, writing, helping children to be resilient and her experiences. The show aired live February 20, 2012 at 2pm EST.

The Stories for Children Show with VS Grenier 02/20 by WorldOfInkNetwork | Blog Talk Radio

2012-02-20T09:08:00.001-08:00

Come join VS Greiner each Monday on BTR’s World of Ink Network's The Stories for Children Show.

Airs live 2pm EST - 1pm CT - 12pm MT - 11am PST

The idea of this show is to bring children's authors together with their readers. Each show our listeners will learn about a new or award-winning author, their books and the inspiration behind their writing.

This week Kasey Crawford Kellem, creator of the Mind Over Matter (M.O.M.) Books will be joining the show. Kellem, a School Counselor and former Special Education Teacher, has devoted her life to helping children facing adversity. She has earned a Bachelors Degree and Masters Degree in Special Education and an Educational Specialist Degree in Counseling.

The Mind Over Matter Books are geared towards young children to help them learn how to be resilient. These books are designed to also serve as decorations in a child’s bedroom or playroom on book shelves, nightstands, or desks.

BELIEVE is the first of five books emphasizing the important factors for resiliency. In this book, children will learn to BELIEVE in their possibilities.

Published by Halo Publishing, Int.
Visit us at http://worldofinknetwork.blogspot.com or http://storiesforchildrenpublishing.com

The Stories for Children Show with VS Grenier 02/20 by WorldOfInkNetwork | Blog Talk Radio

FOCUS DISCUSSIONS - HOST - FRAN LEWIS 02/16 by WorldOfInkNetwork | Blog Talk Radio

2012-02-16T08:00:00.000-08:00

Fran Lewis - PREMIER SHOW - on Thursday February 16 at 3PM EST - 2 PM CST - 1 PM MT - 12 PM PCT.

Marsha Cook will be joining Fran Lewis to welcome Fran's new show, Discussions with Fran Lewis on The World Of Ink,. Fran is a wonderful interviewer, educator and reviewer. On Fran's first show she will interview author Louise Geesdeh Barton the author of The Memoir of Liberian Refugees: So Far to Run and author Bonnie Virag who wrote the compelling novel Stovepipe. Louise lived as a refugee in Liberia, survived more than her share of horrors and horrific times in this true story of her life. As you hear the voice of the author and listen to her story you will truly understand her courage, persistence and will to live while running for her life for ten years and hoping to escape what so many did not. Bonnie grew up with 18 brothers and sisters and went through the foster care system dealing with many families, abuse, poor social workers as she tells our listeners of her life and that of losing more than just her own family.

A story so graphically, emotionally and well told that each page holds the reader captive as you hear her voice and those of her sisters. You feel the pain inflicted on them and the sadness and stress inflicted on these children by strangers who really never cared about them, went through the motions of pretending to be their parents and one woman who never gave up on herself. Thank you for giving me the honor or reading, reviewing and sharing your story. Two authors and two true stories told as they lived these experiences first hand and want to share it with you, our listeners. Fran Lewis: Interviewer, educator and reviewer.
Chat room will be open - for more info go to www.michiganavenuemedia.com

Listen to the show here
FOCUS DISCUSSIONS - HOST - FRAN LEWIS 02/16 by WorldOfInkNetwork | Blog Talk Radio

What Is Success Show with VS Grenier and Marsha Casper Cook 02/10 by WorldOfInkNetwork | Blog Talk Radio

2012-02-09T08:36:00.000-08:00

Come join hosts VS Grenier & Marsha Cook on February 10th at 1PM EST – 12PM CT – 11AM MT – 10AM PST.

This is a discussion based show. Marsha and Virginia will be happy to take your calls if you have questions.
Call in number - 714-242-5259

This week special guest Johnny Tan from My Mama's Kitchen will be joining the show. Come learn how success starts at home. Johnny is a multi-award winning author, leadership speaker, life coach & talk show host.

Marsha Casper Cook and Virginia (VS) Grenier have over 50 years of experience with the publishing and marketing world.Their goal...to help you become successful.

Call in, post your questions in our chat room during the show or email your questions to us here at Blog Talk Radio.
Call in number - (714) 242-5259

Info at http://www.michiganavenuemedia.com/ or Visit our blog and learn more about us and our guest at http://worldofinknetwork.blogspot.com

Listen here What Is Success Show with VS Grenier and Marsha Casper Cook 02/10 by WorldOfInkNetwork | Blog Talk Radio

A GOOD STORY IS A GOOD STORY with Host Marsha Casper Cook 02/07 by WorldOfInkNetwork | Blog Talk Radio

2012-02-07T08:26:00.000-08:00

Please join Marsha Cook on Tuesday Feb.7- 9PM EST -8PMCST - 7PM MT -6 PM PST - as she welcomes Author Brian Moreland an author who is quite diversified.

He will be discussing his technique and style of writing. He writes informatively and because of his vivid imagination he enjoys the journey that his stories take him on. He hasn't always been on top and he understands the difficulties of getting published. He will explain how he became so popular and is now putting titles out with publishers. He has never quit regardless of how many rejections he received from publishers and agents.

Brian believed in his work and he didn't give up and his inspiration will certainly help those of you that want to become writers and are afraid to try your luck. Bethany Cross, Author of soon to be released by Rebel Press, MR.THURSDAY NIGHT, will be opening the chat room.

Listen live or on demand -
You can find out more about Brian -
http://www.brianmoreland.com/
http://www.brianmoreland.com/myblogs.html

Listen here
A GOOD STORY IS A GOOD STORY with Host Marsha Casper Cook 02/07 by WorldOfInkNetwork | Blog Talk Radio

The Stories for Children Show with VS Grenier 02/06 by WorldOfInkNetwork | Blog Talk Radio

2012-02-06T08:22:00.000-08:00

Come join VS Greiner and her guests each Monday on BTR’s World of Ink Network's The Stories for Children Show.
Airs live 2pm EST - 1pm CST - 12pm MST - 11am PST

The idea of this show is to bring children's authors together with their readers. Each show our listeners will learn about a new or award-winning author, their books and the inspiration behind their writing.

This week Award-winning Author Hope Irvin Marston will be joining the show. She has written thirty-two children’s books and several adult titles. Marston is a member of the New York State Retired Teachers, the Greater Thousand Islands Literacy Council, the Jeff-Lewis Librarians Association, the Adirondack Center for Writing, the St. Lawrence County Arts Council, the North Country Arts Council and SCBWI. She organized the Black River Valley Writers Club and served as its leader for several years. Later she founded the North Country Children’s Writers and Illustrators arm of SCBWI and directed the annual writing conference for five years.

Marston also offers school visits from kindergarten through post-graduate college and presents writing workshops for kids and adults.

Visit us at http://worldofinknetwork.blogspot.com or http://storiesforchldrenpublishing.com

Listen here
The Stories for Children Show with VS Grenier 02/06 by WorldOfInkNetwork | Blog Talk Radio

A GOOD STORY IS A GOOD STORY with Host Marsha Casper Cook 02/03 by WorldOfInkNetwork | Blog Talk Radio

2012-02-03T10:06:00.000-08:00

Please join Marsha Cook on Friday Feb 3- 1PM EST - NOON -CST 11AM MT - 10 AM PST as she welcomes Author Nancy Beckerman.

Out of Time: One Couple's Journey Through Cancer. A loving wife and her husband share a journey of love.

Also joining the show will be Richard Wiener, who had had the same experience with his wife. He is the author of Check Please And Hurry.

He is a retired Chicago High School Athletic Director,who has been widowed for 5 years.

The discussion will be quite interesting because each of them will be discussing how they handled that chapter in their lives and what they are doing now to go on without their spouse
SAM OLIVER AND FRAN LEWIS WILL BE JOINING THE DISCUSSION

Listen here
A GOOD STORY IS A GOOD STORY with Host Marsha Casper Cook 02/03 by WorldOfInkNetwork | Blog Talk Radio

WOI Spotlight: Kasey Crawford Kellem, Author of M.O.M Books

2012-02-02T07:02:00.000-08:00

BELIEVE is the first of five books emphasizing the important factors for resiliency. In this book, children will learn to BELIEVE in their possibilities.

Get a sneak peek of the book BELIEVE and listen to an interview with Kasey Crawford Kellem at http://youtu.be/L_PPnSHXzzY

About the Author: Kasey Crawford Kellem, a School Counselor and former Special Education Teacher, has devoted her life to helping children facing adversity be resilient. Kasey created Mind Over Matter (M.O.M.) books to teach children skills to overcome life’s challenges. She has earned a Bachelor’s Degree and Masters Degree in Special Education and an Educational Specialist Degree in Counseling. She is a devoted wife, stepmother, sister, daughter and counselor.

In addition, come listen on February 20, 2012 to Blog Talk Radio’s World of Ink Network show: Stories for Children at http://www.blogtalkradio.com/worldofinknetwork. The hosts VS Grenier and Irene Roth will be chatting with Kasey Crawford Kellem about her M.O.M Books, writing, helping children to be resilient and her experiences. The show airs live February 20, 2012 at 2pm EST. You can listen/call in at (714) 242-5259. (Note: if you can’t make the show, you can listen on demand at the same link.)

To purchase any of Kasey Crawford Kellem’s books, visit Halo Publishing: www.halopublishing.com

WOI Spotlight: Hope Irvin Marston

2012-02-01T06:00:00.000-08:00

Hope Irvin Marston is a native of central Pennsylvania, the eighth child in a farm family of nine, an honor’s graduate of Lock Haven (PA) High School, Milligan College (TN) and SUNY at Geneseo.

She is a member of the New York State Retired Teachers, the Greater Thousand Islands Literacy Council, the Jeff-Lewis Librarians Association, the Adirondack Center for Writing, the St. Lawrence County Arts Council, the North Country Arts Council and SCBWI. She organized the Black River Valley Writers Club and served as its leader for several years. Later she founded the North Country Children’s Writers and Illustrators arm of SCBWI and directed the annual writing conference for five years.

In addition to writing thirty-two children’s books and several adult titles, Hope has been on staff for Christian Writers Conferences at Hephzibah Heights (MA), Montrose Bible Conference (PA) and at St. Davids Christian Writers Conference at Beaver Falls, PA. She has taught creative writing workshops at Jefferson Community College, the Jefferson-Lewis Teacher Center, and the North Country Arts Council.

Her picture book series, MY LITTLE BOOK COLLECTION (Windward), has grown to eight titles thus far and has 125,000 books in print.

The World of Ink Network will be touring three of Hope's books all month in February 2012.

Eye on the Iditarod: Aisling’s Quest - Biography, but written as an autobiography.

Windward Publishing (An imprint of Finney Company)

ISBN-13: 978-0-89317-071-4

December 1, 2011

About the Book: From the time she was three years old, Aisling (pronounced “Ashley”) Lara Shepherd loved watching sled dog racing on television. Inspired by the drive and determination of the dogs and the people who race them, Aisling set out on a personal quest to one day run her own dogs in the Alaskan Iditarod race. This biographical account follows then eleven-year-old Aisling as she conquers obstacles, deals with heartbreak and loss, and achieves great victories, while keeping her eye on the Iditarod.

Against the Tide: The Valor of Margaret Wilson

P & R Publishing

ISBN: 978-1-59638-061-5

About the Book: Seventeenth-century Scotland is a place of cruel intolerance for te Covenanters, a people bound togethr by their loyal faith. A young, earnest Covenanter, Margaret Wilson finds hr pledged loyalty to Christ and his covenant in opposition to King Charles II's demand for her absolute obedience. Will Margaret choose to defy the autorities? Or will devotion to her family, love for her sweetheart, and hopes of future happiness rule her heart?

MY LITTLE BOOK OF BALD EAGLES

Windward Publishing (An imprint of Finney Company)

ISBN-13: 978-0-89317-068-4

About the Book: Next Generation Indie Book Award-winner. A Delightful story about a ne family of bald eagles. From the newborns' first flights to their own fishing adventures, this beautifully illustrated book is ideal for introducing young children to te wonders of nature.

You can find out more about Hope Irvin Marston’s World of Ink Author/Book Tour schedule at http://storiesforchildrenpublishing.com/HopeIrvinMarston.aspx. There will be giveaways, reviews, interviews, guest posts and more. Make sure to stop by and interact with Marston and the hosts at the different stops by leaving comments and/or questions.

In addition, come listen to Blog Talk Radio’s World of Ink Network show: Stories for Children at http://www.blogtalkradio.com/worldofinknetwork. The hosts VS Grenier and Irene Roth will be chatting with Hope Irvin Marston about her books, writing, the publishing industry and experiences. Marston will also be sharing writing tips and trials, and the tribulations of the writer’s life.

The show will air live February 6, 2012 at 2pm EST. You can tune in live at the World of Ink Network site at http://www.blogtalkradion.com/worldofinknetwork. You can listen/call in at (714) 242-5259. (Note: if you can’t make the show, you can listen on demand at the same link.)

A GOOD STORY IS A GOOD STORY with Host Marsha Casper Cook Jan. 31st

2012-01-31T09:00:00.000-08:00

Please join Marsha Cook Tuesday January 31 at 9 PM-EST, 8PM CST- 7PM MT - 6 PM- PST for an entertaining and informative discussion on writing screenplays and books.

The very special guest for the evening is Jack Remick. Jack co-authored The Weekend Novelist Writes a Mystery, with Robert J. Ray. He has a collection of short fiction, Terminal Weird (Black Heron Press), a novel, The Stolen House (Pig Iron Press) as well as work in The Seattle Five Plus One, an anthology (Pig Iron Press). Jack’s stories and poems have appeared in national magazines such as Carolina Quarterly, Portland Review, Big Hammer, Café Noir Review, and Northwind. You won't want to miss this show!

You can check out all his books at http://www.amazon.com/Jack-Remick/e/B001IOBPOW

More info on the shows at www.michiganavenuemedia.com

What is Success Show 01/27 by WorldOfInkNetwork | Blog Talk Radio

2012-01-27T07:26:00.000-08:00

Please join hosts VS Grenier & Marsha Cook on January 27th at 1PM EST – 12PM CT – 11AM MT – 10AM PST.

This is a discussion based show. Marsha and Virginia will be happy to take your calls if you have questions.
Call in number - 714-242-5259

Writing a book can be a challenge enough but when you're looking for a place to start when searching for a writing coach, editor, publisher and someone to help with marketing, the choice are endless and many cost more than you can afford. What is a writer to do? Marsha Casper Cook and Virginia (VS) Grenier have become experts on this very subject and both know there great new companies and people out there who can help. Between them, they have over 50 years of experience with the publishing and marketing world.

You can call in, post your questions in our chat room or email your questions to us here at Blog Talk Radio.

Call in number - (714) 242-5259

Info at http://www.michiganavenuemedia.com/ or Visit our blog and learn more about us and our guest at http://worldofinknetwork.blogspo

Listen to the show at the link below
What is Success Show 01/27 by WorldOfInkNetwork | Blog Talk Radio

The Families Matter Show 01/25 by WorldOfInkNetwork | Blog Talk Radio

2012-01-24T21:37:00.000-08:00

BTR’s World of Ink Network show: Families Matter with hosts VS Grenier and Kecia Burcham.

Airs live 6pm EST - 5pm CST - 4pm MST - 3pm PST

The Families Matter show airs live once a month on the 4th Wednesday.

This months show topic is on Divorce.

We will be talking about tips for parents and children dealing with this tough life changing event. When it comes to divorce, everyone is touched by its awful power.

The idea of this show is to have guests and listeners (adults or kids) share information to help empower children and their families.

Please post any questions or stories you would like us to answer or share on the show. You are also invited to call in and join the conversation.

Listen at
The Families Matter Show 01/25 by WorldOfInkNetwork | Blog Talk Radio

A GOOD STORY IS A GOOD STORY with Host Marsha Casper Cook 01/24 by WorldOfInkNetwork | Blog Talk Radio

2012-01-24T06:43:00.000-08:00

Please join Marsha Cook on Tuesday January 24 at 8 pm cst- 9pm est 7pm mt -6pm pst for an entertaining and informative discussion on writing novels.

Special Guests this week are Nancy Kay, and Cindy Cromer. It's going to be a fun show so join us in the chat room or call in to ask questions.
To find out more about these wonderful authors
http://nancykayauthor.com/
http://www.etreasurespublishing.com/products/Desperate-Measures-by-Cindy-Cromer.html
http://www.michiganavenuemed

Listen to the show at
A GOOD STORY IS A GOOD STORY with Host Marsha Casper Cook 01/24 by WorldOfInkNetwork | Blog Talk Radio

The Stories for Children show - January 23rd - Blog Talk Radio: World of Ink Network 6pm EST

2012-01-23T06:34:00.000-08:00

Diary of My Days in Kenya is a fictional story loosely based upon the real life occurrences of a nomadic lioness who nurtures baby oryx as if they were her own young. A naturalist’s observations of the lioness and her adopted baby oryx offers the reader an interesting insight as to why this unique phenomenon has transpired. The story explores how the traditional relationship of a predator and prey is transcended, presenting a spellbinding account of how a parental bond, even a non-traditional one, can never be broken.

About the author: Rachel Yurchisin’s love of science and nature has inspired her to write her first children’s book in the hopes of passing on her passion to other young ‘budding’ naturalists. Yurchisin is a junior in high school and participates in educational programs at her city zoo and natural history museum.

You can find out more about Rachel Yurchisin’s World of Ink Author/Book Tour schedule at http://storiesforchildrenpublishing.com/RachelYurchisin.aspx

Listen to the show here:
http://www.blogtalkradio.com/worldofinknetwork/2012/01/23/the-stories-for-children-show

Tips for Finding or Working with an Illustrator By Maryann B. Sawka, Author of Good Table Manners Made Easy

2012-01-22T12:08:00.000-08:00

Imagine a picture book without pictures. Or imagine a picture book with pictures that are not the right pictures. Imagine that the story of the book is conveying one message while the illustrations are sending a different message. Illustrations are just as important to a book as the text that tells the story. Illustrations bring a story to life. When we read a book without illustrations, we picture the story coming to life in our imagination, using our own mental illustrations.

In addition to writing a book, the author is challenged to search for an illustrator who will bring the book to life. The relationship between an author and an illustrator is paramount in the book publishing process. But, before you can build a successful working relationship, you have to find an illustrator to come on board with your project.

During the writing process, many authors work in their minds where they practice different passages of text and dialogue, test scenes and scenarios, all while they are envisioning the illustrations that will support their story. The author has to consider the intended audience of the book when choosing an illustrative style. If the book is to be published as a children’s book, it will most likely contain illustrations that are bright, bold, vivid, bringing the child into the story from the onset. If the book has been written for an older audience, perhaps softer illustrations would do a better job of delivering the book’s message.

These are the details that the author includes in a manuscript during the publishing process. They are often referred to as the “illustrator notes.” These notes serve as a guide from which an illustrator works when producing the images that support the content of a book.

When I was at the illustrative step during the publication of my book, “Good Table Manners Made Easy,” my publisher offered the work of several illustrators for me to review, looking for the best match to capture my book. In order to choose the right illustrator for my book, I reviewed their sample works of art repeatedly, trying to envision my words working with each illustrator’s images. It was fortunate that my publisher was able to offer multiple options of which illustrator would work on my book.

Since I had been envisioning these illustrations for quite a long time, the process was not as laborious as it might have been, though making a decision that holds so much power was daunting. What if we started the process and we didn’t have the same ideas? What if I wasn’t able to convey my thoughts and ideas clear enough to be translated into working images for my book? These, as well as many other thoughts troubled me until I received the first sketches from Amy Rottinger, my illustrator on “Good Table Manners Made Easy.”

My hope for the illustrations was to have the illustrations tell a story, even though my book is non-fiction and more process-oriented rather than story-oriented. The illustrations were to support each table manners process that was being described in the passages of text. I wanted the cover illustration to set the stage for the story that would unfold inside the book. The “characters” on the cover of the book would be featured throughout the book so that there was a cohesive flow, recognizable by the reader. Ms. Rottinger brilliantly transferred my ideas into illustrations that began as simple shape sketches, moving into sketches with more detail that quickly became pencil figures that developed into full-color illustrations that suggested life and movement, bringing my book to life.

About the author: Maryann B. Sawka is an educator and parent, who has always embraced the notion that good manners are stylish and timely in every situation. She founded Charming Manners, a training company that educates all ages in the quest for civility and self-confidence. Sawka introduces good manners with a fun, engaging approach that makes the pursuit for knowledge an enjoyable experience.

Get a sneak peek of the book at http://youtu.be/CGGKkxa9qSQ

You can find out more about Maryann B. Sawka’s World of Ink Author/Book Tour schedule at http://storiesforchildrenpublishing.com/MaryannBSawka.aspx. There will be giveaways, reviews, interviews, guest posts and more. Make sure to stop by and interact with Sawka and the hosts at the different stops by leaving comments and/or questions.

A GOOD STORY IS A GOOD STORY with Host Marsha Casper Cook 01/19 by WorldOfInkNetwork | Blog Talk Radio

2012-01-17T19:19:00.000-08:00

Join Marsha Cook on January 19th at 9PM EST - 8 PM CST - 7PM MT - 6PM PST for a incredible look into the world of e- book publishing and exactly how Ashley Fontainne had a dream come true and to make life even better Karen Fuller of World Castle Publishing is now going to Publish her next book.

And if that's not enough Karen Fuller is now responsible for several writers who are now having the success they have always dreamed of. Joining us on the show will be another very successful World Castle Author Scarlet Black. Another edition to the show will be Audrey Hamilton and Joann Buchanan who work very hard doing WORLD CASTLE marketing. Sandra Elrod will be opening up the phone lines and chat rooms.

more info on World Castle - www.worldcastlepublishing.com and www.michiganavenuemedia.com

Listen at
A GOOD STORY IS A GOOD STORY with Host Marsha Casper Cook 01/19 by WorldOfInkNetwork | Blog Talk Radio

The Stories for Children show 01/16 by WorldOfInkNetwork | Blog Talk Radio

2012-01-16T07:23:00.000-08:00

Good Table Manners Made Easy is a quick, easy-to-read resource that teaches basic table manners in a delightful fun way. It also serves as a quick refresher for the table manners that we may have forgotten.

Get a sneak peek of the book at http://youtu.be/CGGKkxa9qSQ

About the author: Maryann B. Sawka is an educator and parent, who has always embraced the notion that good manners are stylish and timely in every situation. She founded Charming Manners, a training company that educates all ages in the quest for civility and self-confidence. Sawka introduces good manners with a fun, engaging approach that makes the pursuit for knowledge an enjoyable experience.

You can find out more about Maryann B. Sawka’s World of Ink Author/Book Tour schedule athttp://storiesforchildrenpublishing.com/MaryannBSawka.aspx.

Listen here:
The Stories for Children show 01/16 by WorldOfInkNetwork | Blog Talk Radio

Tips to Becoming a Published Author with Molly Nero, author of Smarty Pig

2012-01-15T10:05:00.000-08:00

Ever seen an armadillo in action? You probably have not, unless like me, you were privileged to live in Texas where they tend to be more road kill than wildlife these days. Anyway, this animal uses super hard plates to encircle it, so its predator has a horrible time trying to reach the vulnerable spots. Well, when trying to become a published author, you need to emulate this amazing creature and protect yourself because rejection seems to be as common as the cold. Having a “thick skin” isn’t just a saying; it’s a necessity when you are receiving multiple rejection letters. So be an armadillo and just keep your heart, your hopes and your precious book safely tucked away from the discouragement and despair that seems rampant when trying to get published.

You have an amazing idea, a message, a story that you must share with the world. Great! Write it! Make sure your book is the best it can possibly be. In between being a wife, mom of 2 young kids, full-time teacher and family chauffeur, it took me 7 years to complete Smarty Pig. I knew the message needed to reach kids everywhere, so I started to educate myself about publishing. I went onto the computer and Googled publishers, how to publish, self-publishing and all those wonderfully confusing topics unknown to me until I sat and read for hours. Query letters must be typed a specific way or your manuscript won’t even be looked at.

Your manuscript must be formatted specifically for that publisher or again, it wouldn’t even be looked at. Ugh! It was so confusing and frustrating. But you can’t give up. I attempted many publishing houses or imprints (another word that was unknown to me) that would accept an unsolicited manuscript. The result was rejection letter after rejection letter. I was really frustrated and discouraged, thus the armadillo attitude must come into play. Protect yourself from becoming discouraged.

Don’t get stuck in thinking that traditional publishing is the only way to go. I found Halo Publishing International, an amazing, respectable publishing company with integrity and the willingness to work hands-on with its authors. Yes, I came up with the money to publish my book, but at the same time, I was in control of every aspect of the process. Something that is very important to me. They had illustrators lined up for me to choose from, editors to walk me through changes I needed to consider, and marketing specialists talking to me about the best way to get Smarty Pig out into the public. My experience has been both positive and professional with Halo after the barrage of rejection form letters. Halo was my perfect fit to publish Smarty Pig and consequently, my second book as well.

My tips to becoming a published author: believe in yourself, be passionate about your work, research all options, and don’t give up!

~~~~~~~

About the author: Molly Nero loves to sing, dance and read. She spent over 18 years teaching elementary school. Reading to her own children, she was inspired to write. The second book in the Smarty Pig book series Smarty Pig and the Test Taking Terror releases in Spring 2012.

Halo Publishing, Int. and the World of Ink Network will be touring author Molly Nero’s book Smarty Pig, which released December 2011.

Smarty Pig is the only one in the pig family who hasn’t given up on school and doing her homework. Although she is teased, her report card shows her hard work, while the others fail. The other pigs reach out to her and she becomes their tutor, by creating games in their home. They all realize learning can be fun and that it’s not just for school, it’s for life.

Get a sneak peek of the book at http://youtu.be/E2L_NS2QqgM

You can find out more about Molly Nero’s World of Ink Author/Book Tour schedule at http://storiesforchildrenpublishing.com/MollyNero.aspx. There will be giveaways, reviews, interviews, guest posts and more. Make sure to stop by and interact with Nero and the hosts at the different stops by leaving comments and/or questions.

What is Success Show - January 13 by BTR's World of Ink Network

2012-01-13T07:05:00.000-08:00

Please join hosts VS Grenier & Marsha Cook on January 13th at 1PM EST – 12PM CT – 11AM MT – 10AM PST.

Writing a book can be a challenge enough but when you're looking for a place to start when searching for a writing coach, editor, publisher and someone to help with marketing, the choice are endless and many cost more than you can afford. What is a writer to do? Marsha Casper Cook and Virginia (VS) Grenier have become experts on this very subject and both know there great new companies and people out there who can help. Between them, they have over 50 years of experience with the publishing and marketing world.

Producer J.D. Holiday will be working our chat room for any questions you may have.

This show is a discussion based. You can call in, post your questions in our chat room or email your questions to us here.

Call in number - (714) 242-5259

Info at http://www.michiganavenuemedia.com/

Listen live or on demand here
What is Success show 01/13 by WorldOfInkNetwork | Blog Talk Radio

A GOOD STORY IS A GOOD STORY with Host Marsha Casper Cook 01/10 by WorldOfInkNetwork | Blog Talk Radio

2012-01-10T06:42:00.000-08:00

Please join host Marsha Cook on January 10th at 3PM CST -4PM EST -2PM- MT - 1PM PST.

It's time to have some fun. Dating at any age is a challenge but when you're looking for love you have to start somewhere, Lawrence Fisher and Richard Wiener have become experts on dating the wrong girls and having bad dates. They both know that somewhere out there great new relationships can happen- but when? Too many bad dates and not enough great ones makes for the telling of a good stories. Now this is going to fun ! Call in and tell us if you've ever had a date go wrong - or if you had a great one.

Call in number - (714) 242-5259
info http://www.michiganavenuemedia.com/

Listen to the show live or on demand at
A GOOD STORY IS A GOOD STORY with Host Marsha Casper Cook 01/10 by WorldOfInkNetwork | Blog Talk Radio

Stories for Children Show - January 9, 2012 (2pm EST)

2012-01-09T06:00:00.000-08:00

Blog Talk Radio’s World of Ink Network Show: Stories for Children with hosts VS Grenier, Kris Quinn Christopherson and Irene Roth will be chatting with debut author Molly Nero about her Smarty Pig picture book series. The first book in the series, Smarty Pig and the sequel, Smarty Pig and the Test Taking Terror releases in Spring 2012.

About the Book: Smarty Pig is about the pig family and one little pig who hasn’t given up on school and doing her homework. Although she is teased, her report card shows her hard work, while the others fail. The other pigs reach out to her and she becomes their tutor, by creating games in their home. They all realize learning can be fun and that it’s not just for school, it’s for life.

Get a sneak peek of the book at http://youtu.be/E2L_NS2QqgM

About the author: Molly Nero loves to sing, dance and read. She spent over 18 years teaching elementary school. Reading to her own children, she was inspired to write. The second book in the Smarty Pig book series Smarty Pig and the Test Taking Terror releases in Spring 2012.

You can find out more about Molly Nero’s World of Ink Author/Book Tour schedule athttp://storiesforchildrenpublishing.com/MollyNero.aspx.

Listen to the show at the link below:
The Stories for Children show 01/09 by WorldOfInkNetwork | Blog Talk Radio

Guest Post: Balancing Your Writing with School by Rachel Yurchisin

2012-01-08T08:03:00.000-08:00

This whole experience has not changed my relationship with any of my friends- many of whom have bought my books for the holidays. Even some of my teachers have expressed interest in my book. Also, now since I am a junior in high school- the college search is currently taking place.

When I visit various colleges, many are impressed with the fact that I am a published author and I hope that will assist in my college acceptance probability.

I have found it very difficult to balance writing, the process of publishing and publicizing my book "Dairy of My Days in Kenya" with my schoolwork and hobbies. I give Virginia a lot of credit with putting up with me not keeping up with deadlines, etc.

However, I believe that family comes first, and then school work, and then anything else. However, on the side I participate in the Zoo Crew at the Cleveland Metroparks Zoo, which is a group that teaches the public about the animals on exhibit. I also am in involved with the Future Scientists groups at the Cleveland Museum of Natural History that does surveys of wildlife on various museum properties throughout the course of the year. In addition, since 6^th grade, I have been participating in science fairs on the state level and last year I represented the state of Ohio in a national science fair.

For school, I am on the varsity tennis team and hopefully on the varsity softball team in the spring. As you can imagine, it’s hard to have a social life when you’re involved with all of these extracurricular activities- thank goodness I have very understanding friends and family, who support me through all of my endeavors.

If you haven’t written anything yet, but you want to become an author, I would suggest starting to write about anything you find interesting. For me in particular- I have always found inspiration in nature and past experiences.

About the Book: Diary of My Days in Kenya…is a fictional story loosely based upon the real life occurrences of a nomadic lioness who nurtures baby oryx as if they were her own young. During a drought, a naturalist, Susan Polling, and other professionals, are sent on assignment to observe and document this special pairing. The book’s spirited protagonist, Polling, offers the reader interesting insights as to why this unique phenomenon has transpired. The story explores how the traditional relationship of predator and prey is transcended, presenting a spellbinding account of how a parental bond, even a non-traditional one, can never be broken.

Diary of My Days in Kenya

Publisher: Halo Publishing, Int.

ISBN Number: 978-1-935268-89-5

Genre of Book: Children’s/Educational

Publication Date: May 2011

You can find out more about Rachel Yurchisin’s World of Ink Author/Book Tour schedule at http://storiesforchildrenpublishing.com/RachelYurchisin.aspx. There will be giveaways, reviews, interviews, guest posts and more. Make sure to stop by and interact with Yurchisin and the hosts at the different stops by leaving comments and/or questions.

The show will air live January 23, 2012 at 6pm EST. You can tune in live at the World of Ink Network site at http://www.blogtalkradion.com/worldofinknetwork.

A GOOD STORY IS A GOOD STORY - HOST MARSHA COOK 01/06 by WorldOfInkNetwork | Blog Talk Radio

2012-01-06T10:07:00.000-08:00

Join host Marsha Casper Cook for a special edition of A Good Story Is A Good Story on Friday January 6 -1 PMCST - 2 PM -EST - 12 PM -MT-11 AM MT - A GOOD STORY IS A GOOD STORY when she talks with Willow Cross, a mother of nine, an author and a woman with a very charitable heart.

This is where social networking shines. A few months ago Willow came up with a wonderful idea and has been working very hard to have authors of Young Adult and Children's books donate books for hospital inpatients to enjoy during their hospital stay. The first Hospital to participate in this program is Arkansas Children’s Hospital. This will be an on-going project with other hospitals in the USA.Also joining in the discussion will be Willows hard working staff. J.D Holiday will open the chat room and the phones lines will be open.

There have been many authors who have donated book and Willow is so very thankful that her project is taking off and the children are enjoying the books.

What a great way to start off 2012!

Listen to the show here:
A GOOD STORY IS A GOOD STORY - HOST MARSHA COOK 01/06 by WorldOfInkNetwork | Blog Talk Radio

Author Spotlight: Molly Nero

2012-01-04T00:01:00.000-08:00

Molly Nero loves to sing, dance and read. She spent over 18 years teaching elementary school. Reading to her own children, she was inspired to write. She encouraged and nurtured her 4th grade students in their writing, which helped to strengthen her own abilities. Nero shared, "Being critiqued by 10-year-olds was very humbling, but allowed me to open up myself and make sure that I was relating to them as my audience."

Inspired by David McPhail, Nero sent her book to him not sure what to expect. "You can imagine my excitement opening his handwritten note that included his illustration of my main character Smarty Pig. He wrote, 'I hope that you will work hard to get ‘Smarty Pig’ published.' That encouragement was what I needed to keep trying until I found a publisher that believed in my book and valued my message," shared Nero.

The second book in the Smarty Pig book series Smarty Pig and the Test Taking Terror releases in Spring 2012.

Smarty Pig is the story of a family of pigs that have given up on school. They don’t do their homework and feel it’s not important. The only one who does is teased and nic-named Smarty Pig. When Smarty Pig gets good grades and the others fail, they reach out to her to help them. She agrees but asks them to try their best. She takes skills taught at school and puts them into real-life situations, ie: the kitchen becomes a grocery store with things to be purchased using play money. As the games are played, their grades improve too. They begin to understand that learning CAN be fun, and it’s not just for school, learning is for life.

Publisher: Halo Publishing, Int.
ISBN Number: 978-1-61244-048-4
Genre of Book: Picture book
Publication Date: December 2011

Testimonials:

“Kid-tested, librarian-approved! Nero does an outstanding job of conveying such an important message to youngsters.” --Elaine Volpe, Head of Youth Services, Bethel Park Library, Bethel Park, Pennsylvania.

“As my first graders listened to a reading of Smarty Pig, smiles and giggles abounded! Molly Nero has successfully combined an important life lesson with a fun read. It is a story that appeals to readers of all ages. Parents and teachers love the positive message about learning. Kids love it, because it's fun.” --Barbara Walsh, 1st Grade Teacher, Washington Elementary, Bethel Park, Pennsylvania

"As is ofter said: I only know what I like and and I do like your clever, and funny, and (best of all) thought-provoking story...Smarty Pig. I wish I had come up with the idea myself!" --David McPhail

Places where Smarty Pig is available for sale:

www.halopublishing.com and all other bookstores POD after Dec.

Halo Publishing, Int. and the World of Ink Network will be touring author Molly Nero’s book Smarty Pig, which released December 2011

You can find out more about Molly Nero’s World of Ink Author/Book Tour schedule at http://storiesforchildrenpublishing.com/MollyNero.aspx. There will be giveaways, reviews, interviews, guest posts and more. Make sure to stop by and interact with Nero and the hosts at the different stops by leaving comments and/or questions.

In addition, come listen to Blog Talk Radio’s World of Ink Network show: Stories for Children at http://www.blogtalkradio.com/worldofinknetwork. The hosts VS Grenier, Kris Quinn Chirstopherson and Irene Roth will be chatting with Molly Nero about her book, writing, the publishing industry and experiences. Nero will also be sharing writing tips and trials, and the tribulations of the writer’s life.

The show will air live January 9, 2012 at 2pm EST. You can tune in live at the World of Ink Network site at http://www.blogtalkradion.com/worldofinknetwork.