Vincent, Theo and the Fox: Review

An illustrated adventure story for children inspired by the paintings of Vincent van Gogh. As boys, Vincent and his brother Theo spy a mischievous fox sneaking into a farmer's cart. The fox finds the farmer's lunch bag and starts to rip it open. "That fox should be careful - the farmer will shoot him," says Vincent. "Let's catch him," replies Theo, "and take him someplace safe." They boys give chase through colorful fields, over land and sea, into the city and beyond--settings illustrated by over 30 of van Gogh's greatest works. On this imaginative journey, the boys - and the fox - learn about failure, success, and discovering how to be the best you can be when you grow up. A great way to open up the world of fine art to children.

About The Book

The story in this book is a work of fiction. Vincent van Gogh and his brother Theo are real historical characters but the places, events, and incidents in this story are the product of the author's imagination. The epilog to the story is based on known facts about Van Gogh's life and is not fiction.

My Favorite Line:

"I'll help you, whatever you choose," said Theo.

The Friday #56

Quick as only a fox can be, the fox ran between the waiter's legs, through the kitchen, and out the back door. "A fox should not eat in a restaurant," he thought.

Purchase The Book

Review

What a marvelous magical journey for young children to be introduced to the world of fine art! The author cleverly introduces life's lessons throughout the story line with what the famous artist has experienced throughout his lifetime. Art with a message is an engaging adventure for young and old to appreciate the beautiful works of Van Gogh. You will be introduced to the Van Gogh brothers (insightful family information) and an exciting fox who rambles through various scenes, analyzing his decisions. The children will be enchanted by so many beautiful illustrations. Every painting sparks a story of adventure. My favorite illustration is the Interior of a Restaurant, from Paris, June-July, 1887. You will find the list of illustrations in the end notes. The book was inspired by the author's son and I am privileged to pass it on to my 5-year-old grandson, an upcoming artist! 

5/5 stars! Highly recommend to all art lovers!

I was so blessed to receive this beautiful book from Candace Crabtree. She has a beautiful blog that inspires her readers greatly. Thank you, Candace!

Meet The Author

Ted Macaluso is the author of the "Artist Adventures" books for children. His first, "Vincent, Theo and the Fox," is an adventure story about Vincent van Gogh (picture book/early reader for ages 3 - 8). His second, "The Path Through the Pictures," is an adventure illustrated by Albert Bierstadt, Paul Cezanne, Albrecht Durer, and twelve other famous artists (illustrated chapter book for ages 6 - 9, forthcoming). The books weave the paintings of the artists into exciting stories that engage a child's imagination. Ted was an accomplished research writer and editor of child nutrition studies before turning full time to fiction writing. He was born in Brooklyn, NY. At age 3 his mother "dragged him" to the first of many museums. He has had a deep love affair with art ever since. He lives in Reston, VA with his wife, son, and dog. Learn more at tedmacaluso.com.

More Information

The Vincent Van Gogh Gallery

WikiArt.org

Awesome Art

Skywatch Friday

Sometimes life just gets so busy and we seem to spin out from all our happenings while we're here on this planet. When I looked up to observe the cloud formations of an April day, I was reminded of who is ultimately in control. I found peace within feeling like I was firmly gripped in His hands! Truly, He has the whole world in His hands! So, what do you see here?

Happy Reading and Skywatching!







“You can’t get a cup of tea big enough or a book long enough to suit me." C. S. Lewis
© copyright 2016 – All rights reserved
LadyD Books

A Rose Blooms Twice: Review

About The Book

Rose Brownlee has suffered more loss than most people can endure. Now she must find a purpose and a way to move on with her life. Will she bow to conventional wisdom or will she, like Abraham of old, choose to follow where God leads her . . . even to a wild and strange land she does not know?

Set in the American prairie of the late 1800s, this story of loss, disillusionment, rebirth, and love will inspire, challenge, and encourage you.

Book 1 in the series, A Prairie Heritage. Read the exciting prequel and companion to A Rose Blooms Twice, Wild Heart on the Prairie.

A Prairie Heritage:
Book 1: A Rose Blooms Twice
Book 2: Wild Heart on the Prairie
Book 3: Joy on This Mountain
Book 4: The Captive Within
Book 5: Stolen
Book 6: Lost Are Found 

The Friday #56

"If she continued eating like this, her clothes might begin to fit again rather than slide around like they belonged to someone else."

My Review 

A fiction novel about a strong woman who is a widow and has suffered greatly. After losing her family in a terrible accident, Rose decides to head West. The early settlers of the 1800s who lived on the prairies learned to rely on God a lot. It warms my heart to read about a close rural community of people helping one another out. You feel as if you are part of their clan, participating in all their work routines, attending church together and experiencing good old fashion fellowship with one another. Follow along as you read about the main character, the lovely Rose and her spiritual journey of strength, courage, faith in God and love. Love the book. It drew me in and could not put it down.

5/5 stars. Highly recommend to friends.

About The Author 

Vikki Kestell’s passion for people and their stories is evident in her readers’ affection for her characters and unusual plotlines. Two often-repeated sentiments are, “I feel like I know these people” and “I’m right there, in the book, experiencing what the characters experience.”

Vikki holds a Ph.D. in Organizational Learning and Instructional Technologies. She left a career of twenty-plus years in government, academia, and corporate life to pursue writing full time. “Writing is the best job ever,” she admits, “and the most demanding.”

Also, an accomplished speaker and teacher, Vikki and her husband Conrad Smith make their home in Albuquerque, New Mexico. To keep abreast of new book releases, visit her website, http://www.vikkikestell.com/, or find her on Facebook, http://www.facebook.com/TheWritingOfVikkiKestell.

Have you read the series or are familiar with Vikki Kestell's writing? I like this one a lot!

So, what are you reading this week that you can't put down??

Happy Reading!

“You can’t get a cup of tea big enough or a book long enough to suit me." C. S. Lewis
© copyright 2015 – All rights reserved
LadyD Books

Review: Help! I'm Trapped In My Teacher's Body

About The Book

The first and original book in Todd's world-wide best-selling Help! I'm Trapped in... series. This hysterically funny book about the misadventures of Jake Sherman and his friends have sold more than five million copies worldwide and have been translated into numerous languages.

The Friday #56  (56% reader)

"Great... er, I mean, terrible," I said. "I had Jake, I mean Mr. Dirksen in my body, hang upside down and drink water until it ran out of his nose and he still doesn't want to be in his own body again."

Why I Like It

An exciting storyline involving a student getting into trouble named Jake Sherman and Mr. Dirksen who is a boring science teacher. I really enjoyed the story because it held my attention, shows empathy for others and I feel it's just right for middle graders. It's a fun, fictional read that is full of humoresque adventures between a dorky science teacher and a student who end up living in each other's body and liking it for awhile... but will they be forever trapped? Read on for the exciting conclusion.

5/5 stars. Recommend it.

About The Author: Todd Strasser

Todd Strasser is the author of more than 120 novels for YA and middle graders. His YA novels including such award winners as No Place, If I Grow Up, Boot camp, Can't Get There From Here, Give a Boy a Gun, Wish You Were Dead, Blood on My Hands, Kill You Last, the Impact Zone series, and the DriftX series.

His books for middle graders include Abe Lincoln for Class President, Byte barkley: Secret agent K-9, Don't get Caught in the Girls' Locker Room, Grizzly Attack, and the best-selling 17-book Help! I'm Trapped in... series.

His most recent novel for grades 5 and up, FALLOUT, received a stellar review in the New York Times and was named a must-read middle school book by School Library Journal.

Todd lives in a superb of New York and speaks frequently at schools.



Skywatch Friday

Looks like one big fish and so many little fish to me. What do you see?

Happy reading and skywatching!






“You can’t get a cup of tea big enough or a book long enough to suit me." C. S. Lewis
© copyright 2015 – All rights reserved
LadyD Books

The Goodwill Vultures Club - Review and Interview

I received a gracious invitation from Hugh Willard, the author of The Goodwill Vultures Club: A Day Of Heroes, to review the young readers chapter book shown above. I was so curious to see what it was all about because the cover art grabbed my attention right way. The clubhouse, animals and the children are so cool but I wondered about the black vulture and how it related to the story. Immediately, I replied with a yes because I was interested and Hugh Willard also agreed to do an author-interview. I was pleased!

About The Book

“A heart-warming story of a boy who learns that while some see his disabled pet vulture as ugly, others can see her as inspiration and joy. The story of "Buzz" and Rob is a lesson in acceptance of disabilities as normal, not different." – Mark Lawton Thomas, author of My Lemonade Stand Can’t Stand Me and Amazon Best Seller, When Farts Had Colors There is no shortage of heroic stories laden with love and loyalty between humans and their four legged friends. But there are very few about vultures - at least not the kind with wings. In The Goodwill Vultures Club, Roberta, AKA, Rob, is just such a furry friend. – Ann Eisenstein, author of Hiding Carly (2012) “You’d better keep that wrinkled-headed, alien freak away,” was not an uncommon thing to hear when 10 year old, Elton “Buzz” Stewart takes his pet vulture out in public places. Roberta, who prefers to be called Rob, is a gentle spirit and often misunderstood by people who don’t see beyond her outward appearance. The Goodwill Vultures Club is the story of Buzz and Rob who learn that even an ugly, ailing bird is capable of bringing life and happiness to the lives of others.

Book Review

I love the book and admire how the author weaves layers of complex issues and making them simple to understand, like a loving and nurturing dad surviving divorce and his children adjusting to the changes that goes with divorced parents. Then, there's a bird named Roberta, famous for being on TV, and her owner Buzz who provide support and a way of healing for a special girl who has autism. Plus, you'll discover a bad boy coming around when Rob and Buzz show others how to find a way to rise above people's ugliness when they're afraid and do not understand animals who are unusual and people with disabilities. I especially like the fun approach to relationships and communication with brothers teasing, friends joking, animals bonding and mostly all happening in a tree house!

5/5 stars. Highly recommend. An enjoyable read and a great message for children and adults!

About The Author

Hugh Willard is a writer and psychotherapist living and working in Holly Springs, NC. He has two daughters, two dogs, and two minds (one serious and one silly), all of which keep him busy and happy. You can learn more about Hugh at www.hughwillard.com     

Author Interview      

Tell us a bit about your book and where it’s available.

The Goodwill Vultures Club: A Day of Heroes is the story of Buzz, a most average 10 year old boy whose life becomes anything but average when he happens upon a wounded vulture while camping one summer with his father and brother. The bond between boy and bird becomes an uneven path to healing for Buzz in the aftermath of his parents’ divorce

Right now, it’s available at Amazon.com as well as through my publisher (www.peakcitypublishing.com)  I anticipate it being available later this summer at numerous independent bookstores locally (Raleigh, NC area) and possibly through the larger chains such as Barnes and Noble.

What was the inspiration for your book?

I had a remarkable dream several years ago about vultures that gave me a whole new way of looking at these much maligned creatures.  I came to appreciate how they do their job as nature’s refuse collectors with no fanfare, but also no complaints.  And their flight is quite beautiful.  Using the vulture character as a target for the fear and rejection that arises due to lack of information and understanding felt like a great means to highlight the experience that we humans face at times given our own differences.

What was your aim for this book? What did you want readers to think and feel when reading it?

A few things:  This book takes a fairly straightforward approach to the harder themes of intolerance, loss and redemption, and ultimately affirms the contradictory nature of our experiences and relationships. It seeks to shed further light on the humanity of persons with physical and mental special needs. We need not treat these persons exceedingly different. We need not avoid interaction or conversation with persons having experienced loss. The answer in all of our interactions with persons (or beings) different than us lay in presence, which really is anathema to ignorance and intolerance.  I want to affirm this natural mindset for my young readers.

Additionally, this book tilts more in the direction of prominent male characters, including the main character Buzz, and in a more subtle, understated role, his father. The casting of these male characters is, of course, intentional. It will hopefully draw in greater interest by boys who may otherwise trend away from literature in the pre-adolescent years. It captures some of the playfully derisive quality of interactions among young boys while steering back into the direction of cultivating and validating boys’ emotional terrains. The father represents an emotionally available, nurturing parent; a stark departure from the buffoonish, irresponsible depiction of dads all too prevalent in today’s media. We need more models of effective loving fathers today, for both our sons and daughters.

Do you have any other books currently available?

I have an earlier self published book, entitled Alphatorts: With X-tra Yummy Zucchinis, also available on Amazon.com  This book is a playful antidote to the erosion of our language skills that is paralleling our deeper immersion into technology with its accompanying language shortcuts (lol, omg, idk, etc)

What will you be working on next?

I’ve already finished the second Goodwill Vultures Club book.  This one extends the narrative begun in the first book, and has the two dogs in a more prominent role.  It highlights pet therapy/service animals in conjunction with illustrating the impact of war on returning military vets and their families.  This sounds like a heavier theme, but the book respectfully remains true to the balance of lightness and churn characterized in the first book.  I definitely want to strike the balance between fun and entertainment with education.

How did you originally get into writing?

According to my father, I’ve been a natural storyteller going all the way back to age 3.  I’ve always had the desire, and actually began to dabble more in writing in my 20’s.  Family life and career demands pulled me away, until just a few years ago.  In addition to the fun and joy I experience in the whole process, I also find it to be very therapeutic for me to write.  It’s actually a great de-stressor (deadlines notwithstanding!)

What do you enjoy most about being a writer?

The creative process, wherein I have a general idea before I begin, but once into the piece, it seems to partner with me in creating itself.  It’s a blast to see it unfold before my eyes in real time.  There are always surprises.

What do you find hardest about being a writer?

Turning off the inner critic that wants to write the perfect phrase or sentence in the initial draft.  It’s very freeing to remember that I can just write and know that I will come back to edit and improve upon what I have.

Who or what would you count as your main influence?

There are many that inspire me.  Most animals do.  Even as they follow their instinctual drives, the consistency of their character is endlessly refreshing.  And with most mammals, there is great capacity for connection.  Not coincidentally, a number of the human animals that influence me share the kindred spirit with animals.  This includes my mother, who is now deceased but was an avid reader and writer herself, Jane Goodall, Barbara Kingsolver and Diane Ackerman. From the perspective of writing for children, Judy Blume has long been a highly admired and dominant influence for me.

What do you enjoy reading?

Personally, I enjoy non-fiction essays, memoirs and biographies.  I’m currently reading An American Childhood by Annie Dillard.  I read Pilgrim at Tinker Creek years ago and enjoyed it immensely.  

Who is your favorite author?

Ohh, that is so hard to say.  If I say JudyBlumeBarbaraKingsolverDianeAckermanMarkTwainSueMonkKidd without leaving any space between them, does that count as one?

What would be your ideal writer’s haven for creating your book? Would you have a desk in a quiet cabin somewhere or an iPad on the beach?

Thank you for the easiest question to follow the toughest.  A home in the North Carolina Mountains with my laptop.  I would write indoors to avoid the computer screen glare, but would be next to a window with a stunning view.  I would take frequent breaks to meander outdoors while drinking in nature’s solitude.

Dear Readers,

I so much enjoyed getting to know the author a little bit more and many thanks for this wonderful interview. best wishes and much continued success to Hugh Willard!

The Goodwill Vultures Club: A Day of Heroes (Volume 1)







“You can’t get a cup of tea big enough or a book long enough to suit me." C. S. Lewis

Book Review: Impeccable Petunia

Author Katie Christine and Illustrator Jonathan Edward

About The Book

Follow Petunia, the backyard hen, through a hazardous world as she discovers hidden talents, a mischievous cat named Macy and encounters all things feathered and furious.

My Review

Quite a hit with me! This best e-Book has a slow build, with a rising tide of drama in the hen house. Quality writing and very beautiful illustrations. Petunia is my favorite character, so talented and friendly, too. The series of adventurous stories are entertaining, charming and great for all ages. Everyone is buzzing about this great read and its fresh approach in story-telling. ***** stars.

Can't wait to read the next one! Thank you to Katie and Jon.
Impeccable Petunia Part 1: Claws, Paws, Feathers and Jaws

 





 “You can’t get a cup of tea big enough or a book long enough to suit me." C. S. Lewis

Book Review: Catch That Collie - Author Interview: Tarrin Lupo

Catch That Collie by Tarrin Lupo

My Review

Catch That Collie

A warm and wonderful children’s book written by Tarrin Lupo is a huge success and a must for every home and school library. It’s true, animal lovers love happy endings! When a dog (not just any dog but your dog) finds you or I should say, you find him or her, then a beautiful friendship begins.

The story opens with a family adopting a Collie and interacting with one another, the children find a special name for their new pet. Raja, means “King” in Indian, and he is thrilled to be surrounded by love and friendship. The children’s mother shares most importantly ‘how to be nice to animals’ and properly care for them. The author shares great caring and nurturing tips and the responsibilities of owning a pet. Raja now has a new collar and license.

The only thing is that Raja misses his buddy, a black dog Marcie back at the Savannah Humane Society and runs away to find her. The action of the story moves along quite nicely and at an exciting pace. My grandsons and I found this book to be a real page-turner and very engaging.

Find out what happens when the owners tie Raja to a tree, build a fence but that doesn’t seem to stop the many exciting adventures of Raja looking for his favorite pal Marcie, the sweet black dog whom he adores. By the way, you’ll find a very informative Pet Care Checklist at the back of the book.

I love this 5 star book and highly recommend it. The illustrations are absolutely gorgeous. By the way, "Catch That Collie" is now ranked in the top 50 free ebooks on Amazon overnight. Get your free eBook download here

 

Interview with Tarrin Lupo 

Author of Catch That Collie, Tarrin Lupo, graciously said "yes" in answering so many questions that I wanted to ask. Here's what Tarrin had to say...

1. Tell us a bit about your book and where it’s available.

"Catch That Collie is the tale of a Savannah Shelter Dog that is adopted by first-time pet owners. As the inexperienced family makes mistakes, Raja, The Collie, escapes and explores Savannah, Georgia. Through trial and error, Raja teaches his new family how to properly care for a dog and be responsible pet owners.

Amazon has the best price, it is also at local shops in Savannah ga." 

2. What was the inspiration for your book?

"When I lived in West Virgina I worked at a humane society and was appalled at the way folks out there treated their dogs.  It was a culture of pet irresponsibility that got passed for generation to generation.   I remembered someone trying to adopt, who wanted three dogs because he was pretty sure two would die over the year." 

  

3. What was your aim for this book? What did you want readers to think and feel when reading it?

"I wanted to try and break the cycle of irresponsible pet ownership by reaching the children before it became ingrained."

4. Do you have any other books currently available?

"Yes I have 10 other books, my most current book I co-authored with Ruby Hilliard.  The novel is a young adult story about a pirate treasure hunt around. Think of it kind of like a modern day Goonies."

5. What will you be working on next?

"I am currently working on an extremely unique project that is currently top secret.  I think it is going to be a revolutionary book that people will think about long after they finish it."

6. How did you originally get into writing?

"I started off writing non-fiction manuals about secret hiding places.  I moved into fiction two years ago and have really enjoyed the change."

7. What do you enjoy most about being a writer?

"The hours and freedom.  I also get to work with the best team around, I love my co-author and editors Sandi and Reagen."

8. What do you find hardest about being a writer?

"Staying focused and dealing with getting the final product perfect."

9. Who or what would you count as your main influence?

"The terrible economy and depression opened the door.  I have been talking about writing a novel my whole life, but it was not until I was out of work that I final had time to do it."

10. What do you enjoy reading?

"I like reading my fellow author’s friends work. It seems so much more personal when you actually know the author.  Lately I have also been really interested in graphic novels, like Escape from Terra and The Walking Dead."

11. Who is your favorite author?

"Douglas Adams, I loved Hitch Hikers Guide to the Galaxy." 

12. What would be your ideal writer’s haven for creating your book? Would you have a desk in a quiet cabin somewhere or an iPad on the beach?

"I am comfortable anywhere,  but I demand a top quality office chair so my back does not die."  

Thank you Tarrin Lupino for answering all 12 questions to share with dear readers who love children's literature and have been celebrating Picture Book Month all of November!  Oh, my... I'm the lucky one!

Best wishes and much continued success, 

-- LadyD

For more information, visit:

email: Luporeport@gmail.com

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/tarrinplupo

Website: www.Lupolit.com

Twitter: @TarrinLupo

Blog: http://tarrinlupo.wordpress.com

“You can’t get a cup of tea big enough or a book long enough to suit me." C. S. Lewis