Just a quick tihng to say that in 2 weeks time, the interviews slot on this blog will be no more.
This is to do with the fact I have no authors to interview after that period.
So thankyou to everyone of the authors so far that have given up their time to be pestered by me lol.
If by some chance I do manage to rope in some more authors, the interview side of the blog will continue, but I doubt it somehow.
So as of 2 weeks, the blog will be once a week on a Saturday for book reviews and my memories of fave childhood books. Interviews will cease and I am very upset by that, but hey ho we live and move on I guess.
I've tried asking for authors/poets etc but so far no takers, I asked on twitter, facebook, I even asked around but to no avail.
So far it has been a magical but short ride through peoples minds, thoughts and habits :-)
If anyone does know of anyone author/poets who would like to be bugged by me for a bit, please come forward and let me know. Many thanks xxxxx
Saturday 28 July 2012
Book review - 'Old Magick' By K. Ross & 'The Hobbit' By J.R.R. Tolkein
Hello everyone.
I hope all is well?
Todays book reviews are as follows - 'The Hobbit' By J.R.R. Tolkein, which was Karl S. Green's choice and last week's book review (which I was meant to do, but I hadn't finished reading it) 'Old Magick' By Kirstyanne Ross.
First up is 'Old Magick.
This story centres around Loshelle, her father killed, mother abandons her, leaving her alone in the world, or so she thinks. She hides a secret from the world, but worse than that there are people somewhere in world that are after her grandparents and want the secret they have.
This is a fast paced adventure with twists and turns at each page. Sometimes the story does slow down, but I think that is so your mind can catch up with what has happened so far.
If you want to know more, sorry but you will have to download the book lol, from amazon uk and amazon usa.
I would give this 4.2 out of 5, a bit more editing and revision could have helped, but all in all a good read.
Okay onto 'The Hobbit' By J.R.R. Tolkien.
I cannot remember when I read this, though I do recall it was before my 11th birthday. This book dragged me into another world and by the end of the book, I was captivated by the fantasy genre.
As Karl S. Green stated yesterday in his interview, without this book the fantasy genre wouldn't really exist.
The story is about a hobbit, who goes on an adventure full of danger, adventure and finding yourself.
My favourite chapter is 'Riddles in the dark.' I made myself memorise the riddles and to this day I love randomly repeating one of the riddles to my daughter Amelia to see if she knows the answer.
Written by a wonderful imaginative and somewhat troubled author, who had seen service in World War 1, I tihnk he was trying to send a message through this book - that no matter how you escape the real world, the real world will always be there, with its horrors, devastations, beauty and adventure.
5 out of 5 stars for this book without a doubt, a wonderful read that captures the imagination and makes it fire on all cylinders.
Okay so that's the book reviews for this week, hope you enjoyed reading my blog?
Next week I shall be interviewing poet and short story extraordinaire Jackie Portman. As for book reviews, as of yet I have no clue, but if you do have any suggestions please leave a comment.
Thanks for reading, have a great week.
I hope all is well?
Todays book reviews are as follows - 'The Hobbit' By J.R.R. Tolkein, which was Karl S. Green's choice and last week's book review (which I was meant to do, but I hadn't finished reading it) 'Old Magick' By Kirstyanne Ross.
First up is 'Old Magick.
This story centres around Loshelle, her father killed, mother abandons her, leaving her alone in the world, or so she thinks. She hides a secret from the world, but worse than that there are people somewhere in world that are after her grandparents and want the secret they have.
This is a fast paced adventure with twists and turns at each page. Sometimes the story does slow down, but I think that is so your mind can catch up with what has happened so far.
If you want to know more, sorry but you will have to download the book lol, from amazon uk and amazon usa.
I would give this 4.2 out of 5, a bit more editing and revision could have helped, but all in all a good read.
Okay onto 'The Hobbit' By J.R.R. Tolkien.
I cannot remember when I read this, though I do recall it was before my 11th birthday. This book dragged me into another world and by the end of the book, I was captivated by the fantasy genre.
As Karl S. Green stated yesterday in his interview, without this book the fantasy genre wouldn't really exist.
The story is about a hobbit, who goes on an adventure full of danger, adventure and finding yourself.
My favourite chapter is 'Riddles in the dark.' I made myself memorise the riddles and to this day I love randomly repeating one of the riddles to my daughter Amelia to see if she knows the answer.
Written by a wonderful imaginative and somewhat troubled author, who had seen service in World War 1, I tihnk he was trying to send a message through this book - that no matter how you escape the real world, the real world will always be there, with its horrors, devastations, beauty and adventure.
5 out of 5 stars for this book without a doubt, a wonderful read that captures the imagination and makes it fire on all cylinders.
Okay so that's the book reviews for this week, hope you enjoyed reading my blog?
Next week I shall be interviewing poet and short story extraordinaire Jackie Portman. As for book reviews, as of yet I have no clue, but if you do have any suggestions please leave a comment.
Thanks for reading, have a great week.
Friday 27 July 2012
Interview with NANOWRIMO enthusiast and entrant - Karl S. Green
Good afternoon/evening.
I really am sorry for the delay but I have no idea where the day has gone.
Anyway time for the interview with Karl S. Green.
Here it is, enjoy -
QUESTION 1 - When did you notice you had the 'reading bug'?
I can't really place a date on this one, I've always enjoyed reading, ever since I was a kid.
QUESTION 2 - Did you have many books as a child?
Yes, I had quite a few books when I was a child, plus I would also borrow books from the local library and my school's library - libraries are an important part of encouraging children to read!
QUESTION 3 - Favourite author as a child?
Hmm, this is a toughy. It's hard to pick one. But, if I had to, I say Roald Dahl. His children's books are always great!
(I also have to give an honourable mention to Jill Murphy, I loved her books about "The Worst Witch"! But my love of the Worst Witch is a very long story, and far too long to go into here...)
QUESTION 4 - What kind of books were you into as a teen?
This was when I started to get into fantasy fiction. I discovered "The Hobbit" when I was about 13, and then moved onto "The Lord of the Rings". I also discovered "A Game of Thrones" back in 1996 when it was first published, and I was 15 (and long before it was cool to know about it!). Back then it was unknown. In fact, it was so unknown the publishers appeared concerned that people may not want to buy a book from a new series by an author they may not have heard of before. So, what they did was publish a small sample book. It was a paperback containing the first few chapters (ending on a cliffhanger), and cost 99p. My mother bought it for me, and I loved it! I eventually went on to buy and read the full book. (I still have that small paperback - it's now worth about £200!)
I've grown to love fantasy stories - I like escaping into a different world, and I like stories about epic struggles, sometimes on a global scale.
QUESTION 5 - Name one author you couldn't be without?
Stephen King. I think his writing is fantastic. I'm making an attempt to get through all of his books, which I find incredibly readable.
QUESTION 6 - Name one author the world would be lost without?
J. R. R. Tolkien. He helped to revolutionise the fantasy genre. A world sans "The Hobbit" and "The Lord of the Rings" I think would be quite dull.
QUESTION 7 - Favourite book of all time?
OK, this is a really, really hard question! It's hard to pick just one! But I'm going to go for "The Hobbit". When I first read it I found it to be an exciting adventure, and I was always keen to find out what happened next. I found it hugely entertaining as a young teen, and I still find it hugely entertaining now I'm in my 30's. I very rarely read a book more than once, but so far in my life I've read "The Hobbit" 3 times, and I'm sure I'll be reading it again in the future...
QUESTION 8 - Top three all time favourite authors?
Stephen King
J. R. R. Tolkien
George R. R. Martin
(Honourable mentions for Roald Dahl, Enid Blyton, and Jill Murphy)
QUESTION 9 - How did you get into NANOWRIMO?
I've always been into writing stories, ever since I was a little kid. I also tend to prefer creating longer story forms, such as novels, as opposed to short stories. I'd heard about NaNoWriMo back in 2006, but decided not to go for it that year. But then, in 2007, I decided that I would go for it, as by that time I felt like taking on the challenge. I went to my first NaNoLondon meetup (i.e. a meeting of all of the Nanoers in London) at the end of October 2007, and they were all really great people. From that point on there was no turning back...
QUESTION 10 - When is NANOWRIMO held?
The main event is held every year in November. There are also smaller events held in June and August called Camp NaNoWriMo, although I'm yet to participate in those.
QUESTION 11 - Would you recommend NANOWRIMO to budding authors?
Absolutely! If you've ever wanted to write a novel, but just never got around to it, then you simply must do it! It will help to spur you on to get that first draft of a novel written. Don't have a plot? Don't worry about it - just write whatever comes to mind! You may be surprised at what comes out! Don't worry about the quality, Nano is all about getting a rough draft down on paper. No author's first draft of a story is great - they become great during the revision process. But for Nano, just enjoy the writing process, and get that first draft written...
QUESTION 12 - Do you find NANOWRIMO helps the creative juices going?
Definitely. When I write my novels I always have a clear end in mind, and I find it a thrill to build my story up to work towards that end. Also, the great community spirit during NaNoWriMo helps immensely. You're never alone when you do NaNoWriMo, as there are people throughout the world who are also struggling away on their novels. Interacting with all of these other people helps to spur everyone on.We have a great crowd in NaNoLondon (and anyone in or near London will be more than welcome to join us for NaNoWriMo this November!). And I would also like to give a special mention to Jenn and Claire, who are two of the Municipal Liaisons (MLs) for NaNoWriMo in London. They organise loads of events during NaNoWriMo. These include write-ins, where we all get together to write for a set time, an all night write-in at a local bookstore, and NaNoRilla, where we went on a tour around sites in north London and did some writing in them. These events always get a good turnout, and meeting all of these other people and sitting down to write at the same time as them certainly gets the creative juices flowing. I feel that NaNoWriMo in London wouldn't be anywhere near as fun without all these events, along with the kick-off, mid-month, and end parties that also happen with the help of our other ML's, Lily (who's standing down this year) and Tom.
QUESTION 13 - What is the BIGGEST word count you've done for NANOWRIMO?
My word count goes up every year! The official target is "just" 50,000 words. I laugh in the face of 50,000 words! Last year my final word count was a staggering 160,056 words! (In my 5 years of doing NaNoWriMo I've a written over 500,000 words in total!) And I'm not done yet. This year I've been challenged to do 200,000 words...
QUESTION 14 - Rumour has it you used to do SCRIPT FRENZY, could you describe the process and what happens?
Script Frenzy took place every year in April, where the aim was to write 100 pages of scripts in 30 days. The process is quite different to novel writing, as you have to adjust for the medium you're writing for. If you're doing a film or TV script you have to think visually, and if you're doing a radio script you have to bare in mind what the audience can "see", and what you need to tell them through sound (plus radio is even more heavily reliant on dialogue than any other medium, and writing good dialogue is hard if you're not used to it). I had experience of script writing before I did Script Frenzy - my degree is in Film & TV, and for part of it I wrote film, TV, and radio scripts (I enjoy writing for all sorts of mediums!).
QUESTION 15 - Is SCRIPT FRENZY still running?
Sadly not - 2012 was the last year for Script Frenzy. The organisation that runs it - The Office of Letters and Light - took the decision to close it down this year on cost grounds, and with the intention that they could focus their efforts on all of their other writing programmes.
QUESTION 16 - Do you find that writing helps you escape the real world?
In some ways yes, but in other ways no. I always find that the real world has a way of creeping into my writing. People who know me well may very well recognise various things if they read my writing!
QUESTION 17 - I heard through the grapevine you are writing an Autobiography, what type of content will be in there? And when do you plan on publishing it?
Yes, I've recently started work on this, and it will be called "Fifty Shades of Green". But don't expect to find any BDSM in it! It will be a collection of my thoughts and short episodes from my life. Don't expect a warts and all tell all - many things will be left out for various reasons! But it will still be an interesting and fun read (at least, I hope it will be...). I'm also planning to have a Q&A section where people can literally ask me anything about me, and I will answer it! (Although, there will be no guarantees that all questions will get a serious answer...) All things being well, I hope to have the whole book available by around October. This is quite a firm deadline - I have a feeling that I'm going to be busy in November...
Thankyou Karl, for the sneaky peek into your mind, thoughts, childhood and what you are upto.
Good luck with the Autobiography and best of luck for November's NANOWRIMO and your target of 200,000 words :-).
Okay again I am sorry for the delay, been a hectic day.
Tomorrows book reviews will be 'The Hobbit' By - J.R.R. Tolkien & 'Old Magick' By Kirstyanne Ross.
Thanks for reading x x x
I really am sorry for the delay but I have no idea where the day has gone.
Anyway time for the interview with Karl S. Green.
Here it is, enjoy -
QUESTION 1 - When did you notice you had the 'reading bug'?
I can't really place a date on this one, I've always enjoyed reading, ever since I was a kid.
QUESTION 2 - Did you have many books as a child?
Yes, I had quite a few books when I was a child, plus I would also borrow books from the local library and my school's library - libraries are an important part of encouraging children to read!
QUESTION 3 - Favourite author as a child?
Hmm, this is a toughy. It's hard to pick one. But, if I had to, I say Roald Dahl. His children's books are always great!
(I also have to give an honourable mention to Jill Murphy, I loved her books about "The Worst Witch"! But my love of the Worst Witch is a very long story, and far too long to go into here...)
QUESTION 4 - What kind of books were you into as a teen?
This was when I started to get into fantasy fiction. I discovered "The Hobbit" when I was about 13, and then moved onto "The Lord of the Rings". I also discovered "A Game of Thrones" back in 1996 when it was first published, and I was 15 (and long before it was cool to know about it!). Back then it was unknown. In fact, it was so unknown the publishers appeared concerned that people may not want to buy a book from a new series by an author they may not have heard of before. So, what they did was publish a small sample book. It was a paperback containing the first few chapters (ending on a cliffhanger), and cost 99p. My mother bought it for me, and I loved it! I eventually went on to buy and read the full book. (I still have that small paperback - it's now worth about £200!)
I've grown to love fantasy stories - I like escaping into a different world, and I like stories about epic struggles, sometimes on a global scale.
QUESTION 5 - Name one author you couldn't be without?
Stephen King. I think his writing is fantastic. I'm making an attempt to get through all of his books, which I find incredibly readable.
QUESTION 6 - Name one author the world would be lost without?
J. R. R. Tolkien. He helped to revolutionise the fantasy genre. A world sans "The Hobbit" and "The Lord of the Rings" I think would be quite dull.
QUESTION 7 - Favourite book of all time?
OK, this is a really, really hard question! It's hard to pick just one! But I'm going to go for "The Hobbit". When I first read it I found it to be an exciting adventure, and I was always keen to find out what happened next. I found it hugely entertaining as a young teen, and I still find it hugely entertaining now I'm in my 30's. I very rarely read a book more than once, but so far in my life I've read "The Hobbit" 3 times, and I'm sure I'll be reading it again in the future...
QUESTION 8 - Top three all time favourite authors?
Stephen King
J. R. R. Tolkien
George R. R. Martin
(Honourable mentions for Roald Dahl, Enid Blyton, and Jill Murphy)
QUESTION 9 - How did you get into NANOWRIMO?
I've always been into writing stories, ever since I was a little kid. I also tend to prefer creating longer story forms, such as novels, as opposed to short stories. I'd heard about NaNoWriMo back in 2006, but decided not to go for it that year. But then, in 2007, I decided that I would go for it, as by that time I felt like taking on the challenge. I went to my first NaNoLondon meetup (i.e. a meeting of all of the Nanoers in London) at the end of October 2007, and they were all really great people. From that point on there was no turning back...
QUESTION 10 - When is NANOWRIMO held?
The main event is held every year in November. There are also smaller events held in June and August called Camp NaNoWriMo, although I'm yet to participate in those.
QUESTION 11 - Would you recommend NANOWRIMO to budding authors?
Absolutely! If you've ever wanted to write a novel, but just never got around to it, then you simply must do it! It will help to spur you on to get that first draft of a novel written. Don't have a plot? Don't worry about it - just write whatever comes to mind! You may be surprised at what comes out! Don't worry about the quality, Nano is all about getting a rough draft down on paper. No author's first draft of a story is great - they become great during the revision process. But for Nano, just enjoy the writing process, and get that first draft written...
QUESTION 12 - Do you find NANOWRIMO helps the creative juices going?
Definitely. When I write my novels I always have a clear end in mind, and I find it a thrill to build my story up to work towards that end. Also, the great community spirit during NaNoWriMo helps immensely. You're never alone when you do NaNoWriMo, as there are people throughout the world who are also struggling away on their novels. Interacting with all of these other people helps to spur everyone on.We have a great crowd in NaNoLondon (and anyone in or near London will be more than welcome to join us for NaNoWriMo this November!). And I would also like to give a special mention to Jenn and Claire, who are two of the Municipal Liaisons (MLs) for NaNoWriMo in London. They organise loads of events during NaNoWriMo. These include write-ins, where we all get together to write for a set time, an all night write-in at a local bookstore, and NaNoRilla, where we went on a tour around sites in north London and did some writing in them. These events always get a good turnout, and meeting all of these other people and sitting down to write at the same time as them certainly gets the creative juices flowing. I feel that NaNoWriMo in London wouldn't be anywhere near as fun without all these events, along with the kick-off, mid-month, and end parties that also happen with the help of our other ML's, Lily (who's standing down this year) and Tom.
QUESTION 13 - What is the BIGGEST word count you've done for NANOWRIMO?
My word count goes up every year! The official target is "just" 50,000 words. I laugh in the face of 50,000 words! Last year my final word count was a staggering 160,056 words! (In my 5 years of doing NaNoWriMo I've a written over 500,000 words in total!) And I'm not done yet. This year I've been challenged to do 200,000 words...
QUESTION 14 - Rumour has it you used to do SCRIPT FRENZY, could you describe the process and what happens?
Script Frenzy took place every year in April, where the aim was to write 100 pages of scripts in 30 days. The process is quite different to novel writing, as you have to adjust for the medium you're writing for. If you're doing a film or TV script you have to think visually, and if you're doing a radio script you have to bare in mind what the audience can "see", and what you need to tell them through sound (plus radio is even more heavily reliant on dialogue than any other medium, and writing good dialogue is hard if you're not used to it). I had experience of script writing before I did Script Frenzy - my degree is in Film & TV, and for part of it I wrote film, TV, and radio scripts (I enjoy writing for all sorts of mediums!).
QUESTION 15 - Is SCRIPT FRENZY still running?
Sadly not - 2012 was the last year for Script Frenzy. The organisation that runs it - The Office of Letters and Light - took the decision to close it down this year on cost grounds, and with the intention that they could focus their efforts on all of their other writing programmes.
QUESTION 16 - Do you find that writing helps you escape the real world?
In some ways yes, but in other ways no. I always find that the real world has a way of creeping into my writing. People who know me well may very well recognise various things if they read my writing!
QUESTION 17 - I heard through the grapevine you are writing an Autobiography, what type of content will be in there? And when do you plan on publishing it?
Yes, I've recently started work on this, and it will be called "Fifty Shades of Green". But don't expect to find any BDSM in it! It will be a collection of my thoughts and short episodes from my life. Don't expect a warts and all tell all - many things will be left out for various reasons! But it will still be an interesting and fun read (at least, I hope it will be...). I'm also planning to have a Q&A section where people can literally ask me anything about me, and I will answer it! (Although, there will be no guarantees that all questions will get a serious answer...) All things being well, I hope to have the whole book available by around October. This is quite a firm deadline - I have a feeling that I'm going to be busy in November...
Thankyou Karl, for the sneaky peek into your mind, thoughts, childhood and what you are upto.
Good luck with the Autobiography and best of luck for November's NANOWRIMO and your target of 200,000 words :-).
Okay again I am sorry for the delay, been a hectic day.
Tomorrows book reviews will be 'The Hobbit' By - J.R.R. Tolkien & 'Old Magick' By Kirstyanne Ross.
Thanks for reading x x x
Saturday 21 July 2012
I am sorry
This is a quick post to say that the book review of Old Magick will take place next Saturday, along with Karl S Greens choice - The Hobbit.
As of yet I haven't finished reading Old Magick and so wouldn't be fair to review it until I have read it.
Sorry guys n gals xxxxx
As of yet I haven't finished reading Old Magick and so wouldn't be fair to review it until I have read it.
Sorry guys n gals xxxxx
Friday 20 July 2012
Interview with Author Kirstyanne Ross
Morning people,
I do hope all is well on this Friday?
Today I am interviewing self published author - Kirstyanne Ross. She is a friend of mine, we met through Open Uni.
Don't mind the layout, I'm still experimenting and one day will get it right :-).
Here is the interview which was conducted a few days ago, Wednesday I think it was??
I do hope all is well on this Friday?
Today I am interviewing self published author - Kirstyanne Ross. She is a friend of mine, we met through Open Uni.
Don't mind the layout, I'm still experimenting and one day will get it right :-).
Here is the interview which was conducted a few days ago, Wednesday I think it was??
Q1 - What was your favourite childhood book?
My favourite children’s book has to be Winnie the Pooh’s blustery day I love A.A Milne’s works and Winnie the Pooh and the gang are still my favourite characters to this day.
Q2 - Did you have loads of books as a kid?
Q2 - Did you have loads of books as a kid?
I did! I have always been a bookworm and read from an early age, by the time I had finished infant school I had finished all the Chip books that were used to teach us how to read. I would rather read than go out to play – the worlds in the books were more interesting than the real one outside.
Q3 - Who were your favourite authors as a child?
Q3 - Who were your favourite authors as a child?
A.A Milne, Roald Dahl, Aesop’s fables, Enid Blyton and Lewis Carroll – they all seem old fashioned when I think of the authors that are around now!
Q4 - What genre of books were you into as a teen?
Q4 - What genre of books were you into as a teen?
I liked R.L Stines Goosebumps and Fear Street books – horror was definitely a must as a teen for me.
Q5 - As you have grown older, has your taste in books evolved?
Q5 - As you have grown older, has your taste in books evolved?
It has become a little more rounded; I don’t stick to one genre anymore. I’m also more inclined to read books that other people suggest.
Q6 - Name one book you couldn't be without?
Q6 - Name one book you couldn't be without?
Do I have to pick just one? Sir Terry Pratchett’s Mort.
Q7 - Name one author the world would be lost without?
Q7 - Name one author the world would be lost without?
Sir Terry Pratchett
Q8 - What inspired you to write 'Old Magick'?
Q8 - What inspired you to write 'Old Magick'?
I had to tell Loshelle’s story. It started as a short story and evolved over time.
Q9 - How long did it take to complete?
Q9 - How long did it take to complete?
It took 7 months to write the first draft of Old Magick, once that was done I put Loshelle away for a month and then after a break I was able to go back and edit, edit, edit. In total I was able to complete the novella in just under 12 months before sending it to Kindle.
Q10 - What are the characters like?
Q10 - What are the characters like?
Loshelle is a strong character who likes to be in control, unfortunately her partner is the same. The two battle together and against each other to help keep their family secret.
Q11 - Who would this book appeal to?
Q11 - Who would this book appeal to?
This book was written with teenagers in mind (older teenagers) but I have had feedback from other readers who have enjoyed it as well.
Q12 - Will there be a sequel?
Q12 - Will there be a sequel?
There is a sequel in the works at the moment, however, I don’t have an eta at the moment. I am over a third of the way through the first draft and am moving on with it between my work shifts.
Q13 - What are your thoughts on reading in general?
Q13 - What are your thoughts on reading in general?
I think everyone should make a point of reading, even if it is only once in a while, you can’t lose yourself in any other hobby the way you can in a well written book. New worlds can be discovered without leaving home and you get the best movie reel possible. The imagination can’t be bettered.
Q14 - Should more people read?
Q14 - Should more people read?
Yes!
Q15 - Do you think children have time to read?
Q15 - Do you think children have time to read?
Of course they do. I will be reading to my son between bath time and bed time from him being born and hopefully instil a sense of wonder into him and keep him reading as he grows up.
Q16 - Do you think reading inspires imagination?
Q16 - Do you think reading inspires imagination?
Definitely – there is no better way than books and play!
Q17 - One piece of advice you'd like to give to budding/young people who want to be an author when they are older?
Q17 - One piece of advice you'd like to give to budding/young people who want to be an author when they are older?
Write. I started writing little stories when I was really young and still have poetry I wrote when I was seven years old. Once you have started writing keep writing.
Thankyou Kirstyanne for giving me the time for the interview. It was very interesting an insightful, thanks for letting me have a piece of your mind and of course your thoughts.
Okay so tomorrow's book review will be 'Old Magick' and if you scroll a bit further down there is a link to the UK Amazon site to Kirstyanne's book, titled 'Old Magick.' Available from Amazon UK and Amazon USA.
Next week I will be interviewing Karl S. Green a fanatic for NANOWRIMO national novel writing month, which takes place in November each year. And next week's book review will be The Hobbit by JRR Tolkein.
So tune in tomorrow for my book review, thanks for reading x x x
Saturday 14 July 2012
Book review of 'Six Minutes Past Midnight.' by Annie Christensen
Evening people,
I am sorry for my delay in doing this review, haven't felt my usual self all week and so everything is slowing down a touch.
Just the one book review this week and like I say if anyone has suggestions for future book reviews, please leave a comment and I will do my best.
Right onto said book review.
So, we begin.
The front cover design of 'Six Minutes Past Midnight' is very inviting, it begs you to read it and this is even before you have opened the first page.
Your mind tingles with excitement at the adventure (or adventures) you are about to be taken on, it's like been taken back in time, to a wonderful childhood place where anything was possible.
The adventure begins when the clock stops, after figuring out what to do Angie & Crystal finally find themselves in a place they didn't expect and with an adventure of a lifetime ahead of them, this is something they cannot resist and must do in order to restart the clock.
With ultra modern bikes and a navigator with a mind of it's own, they go back to a simpler time to find the one person who can repair the clock. Filled with humour and some heart stopping moments, you easily slide into their world, their adventure.
With adventures on boats, the road and in time, this is something neither of them will ever forget.
The writing style is easy, flows beautifully, comedic, classic and altogether - wonderful.
The characters are diverse, witty and gel together like they were made for eachother.
As to the adventure the girls have, you will have to read the book to find out :-).
4.9 out of 5, it is simply a classic in the making and parents can read this book to their younger children, aswell as the older ones, this suits anyone from 3-303 lol, but it is targeted at the age rnage of 8-12, but honestly, you will love this book, as I did and still do.
Thanks for reading, see you all Friday where I will be interviewing Author Kirtsyanne Ross and talking books, being published and her thoughts.
Here are the links where you can buy and download the amazing 'Six Minutes Past Midnight.'
http://www.lulu.com/shop/annie-christensen/six-minutes-past-midnight/ebook/product-20245549.html
http://www.amazon.co.uk/Six-Minutes-Past-Midnight-ebook/dp/B0089XETC0/ref=sr_1_1?s=digital-text&ie=UTF8&qid=1342288483&sr=1-1
I am sorry for my delay in doing this review, haven't felt my usual self all week and so everything is slowing down a touch.
Just the one book review this week and like I say if anyone has suggestions for future book reviews, please leave a comment and I will do my best.
Right onto said book review.
So, we begin.
The front cover design of 'Six Minutes Past Midnight' is very inviting, it begs you to read it and this is even before you have opened the first page.
Your mind tingles with excitement at the adventure (or adventures) you are about to be taken on, it's like been taken back in time, to a wonderful childhood place where anything was possible.
The adventure begins when the clock stops, after figuring out what to do Angie & Crystal finally find themselves in a place they didn't expect and with an adventure of a lifetime ahead of them, this is something they cannot resist and must do in order to restart the clock.
With ultra modern bikes and a navigator with a mind of it's own, they go back to a simpler time to find the one person who can repair the clock. Filled with humour and some heart stopping moments, you easily slide into their world, their adventure.
With adventures on boats, the road and in time, this is something neither of them will ever forget.
The writing style is easy, flows beautifully, comedic, classic and altogether - wonderful.
The characters are diverse, witty and gel together like they were made for eachother.
As to the adventure the girls have, you will have to read the book to find out :-).
4.9 out of 5, it is simply a classic in the making and parents can read this book to their younger children, aswell as the older ones, this suits anyone from 3-303 lol, but it is targeted at the age rnage of 8-12, but honestly, you will love this book, as I did and still do.
Thanks for reading, see you all Friday where I will be interviewing Author Kirtsyanne Ross and talking books, being published and her thoughts.
Here are the links where you can buy and download the amazing 'Six Minutes Past Midnight.'
http://www.lulu.com/shop/annie-christensen/six-minutes-past-midnight/ebook/product-20245549.html
http://www.amazon.co.uk/Six-Minutes-Past-Midnight-ebook/dp/B0089XETC0/ref=sr_1_1?s=digital-text&ie=UTF8&qid=1342288483&sr=1-1
Friday 13 July 2012
Interview with author - Annie Christensen
INTERVIEW
What was your favourite childhood book?
It’s impossible for me to choose one. Every book I read as a child, even the picture books I spent so long looking at, threw me into worlds of adventure and totally captivated me. Perhaps it’s the diversity in reading that inspires? Every book – a new story….another adventure!
Did you have lots of books as a child?
So many you won’t believe….
As a child, who were your favourite authors?
From Tove Jansson through Enid Blyton, Nesbit, Frances Hodgson Brunet, Mark Twain, Jack London, Lewis Carol, Kipling, C.S. Lewis, and Tolkein - I loved them all; their books gave me joy and moved me to tears. Hans Andersen’s ‘Little Match Girl’ is still the saddest story I think I’ve ever read in my life, I cried my way practically all the way through ‘Call Of The Wild’ and ‘The Lord Of The Rings’ (in my opinion) is still the greatest masterpiece ever written in the genre of fantasy.
What sort of books were you into as a teen?
I don’t think there were any books specially written for teens when I was that age. If there were, I never heard of them. In my teenage years, sadly, I had far less time for reading. Exams had to be passed and the workload really increased in the school I was in but whenever I got the chance, I read mainly historical novels and science fiction - Victoria Holt, Isaac Asimov and Leon Uris were my favourite authors during this period.
As you've grown older, how has your reading evolved?
Oh gosh….gasp…TERRIBLE! From the time I met my husband and set off wandering about in various parts of Africa (for twenty years) I suppose I stopped ‘reading for escapism and adventure’ and lived my own adventures instead. During this period of my life I had no time to read and when I finally came out of Africa and settled in France, inspired by the big old farmhouse that we live in and the nature all around me, my love of reading transferred into writing.
Name one book you couldn't live without?
The Bible….It radically changed my life. The answer to ‘the world the universe and everything’ is found inside its pages!
What inspired you to write ‘Six Minutes Past Midnight’?
Someone told me once – ‘If you want to write, write about something that you know’ ‘Six Minutes Past Midnight’ was born out of a collection of joyful childhood memories mostly from Denmark, combined with the inspiration from rural France all spun together and thrown into the dimension of fiction. The girl’s attic bedroom is based on our attic bedroom here in France. The Laurel tree which grows past the corner of the roof – exists. The barn owl lives in our barn. The mysterious path of pink and yellow bricks is in our garden and I have done that glorious bike ride from Copenhagen to Alborg. ..er only it wasn’t in the 18th Century.
How long did it take to write/complete?
You know, it took me AGES!!! A full two years to put it all together.
What are the characters like?
Ah, now that’s funny. They’re all strong characters and some are actually based on real people who I know very well. One whole chapter was inspired by two children who came along with their parents on a visit and the characters ‘Annelouise and Frederik’ reflect these two real life children.
What are the best qualities of ‘Six Minutes Past Midnight?’
From a reader’s perspective, I would say that the book manages to captivate several ages at once. Younger children are drawn into the fast moving action and adventure, older ones relate to the twists and surprises, all ages laugh at the navigator and parents find humour in ‘tongue in cheek’ digs at electronic translators and car specifications applied to bicycles etc. Practically every chapter ends in a cliff hanger and with two storylines going on in alternating chapters it keeps the reader on two cliff hangers instead of one - It makes ‘Six minutes Past Midnight’ very difficult to put down… I think. Perhaps the best quality from an author perspective is that the book is ‘wholesome.’ There’s nothing nasty, inappropriate or upsetting for children in its pages. As an author, I believe this is very important.
Who would this book appeal to?
Judging from the feedback I’ve had, everyone who has read the book seems to have really enjoyed it. A comment came in from a 74 year old friend of mine yesterday. He said, ’Why do you keep saying it’s for children? This is a book that Grandparents would LOVE to read to their grandchildren.’ So in conclusion, I would say ‘Six Minutes Past Midnight’ will appeal to anyone with a heart for adventure and a sense of humour who are searching for a real action packed, enthralling ‘tall tale.’ Also, it’s possible, that being ‘culturally different’ may also be a part of the book’s appeal.
Could we have a synopsis of ‘Six Minutes Past Midnight?’
Due to the twists and surprises and because two stories are intertwined, a synopsis is really difficult to do without giving things away. I can only say that Angie and Crystal wake up in the middle of the night to the greatest adventure of their lives and a boy named Hans, living in another age is taken out of his ‘comfort zone’ and thrown headlong into a blinding snowstorm in 18th Century Denmark.. But that’s just the beginning!
Will there be another book?
Yes, I really have to do a sequel. So many parents and children are pestering me for more - and that makes it all worthwhile… doesn’t it? So I’m scribbling away again.
Do you think society has an issue with reading?
The world changes doesn’t it? Everything seems so fast paced now ‘so much to do so little time’ There are computers and cell phones and so much to watch on tv. To some, these are all alternatives to reading. If once though, the joy of reading is discovered, especially at an early age, I believe that it can never be replaced by anything else.
Do you think children are bored of reading now a days?
I really believe that if a child is bored of reading, then the problem is the book - not the child. In general, children have short attention spans and what excites a young mind is a fast moving story line and lots of action. Stories must have the ability to hold a child’s attention, spin them into worlds of make believe, and be so fascinating that they cannot put the book down. Children have the ability to ‘live’ stories along with the characters in them and good children’s books inspire the high levels of imagination that belong mainly to children.
Do you think reading inspires imagination?
Yes absolutely! It’s purely because I was such an avid reader from such an early age that I’m writing today. I feel so lucky that I grew up with all the ‘golden oldies’ (which were not classed as ‘dated’ when I was a child). There were no ‘cyber nasty’s’ then, good books were just that…GOOD books! Excellent, mind blowing brilliant reads which excited and stimulated my young mind and taught me how to ‘live’ a story. In a small way ‘Six Minutes Past midnight’ is a reflection of that glorious experience of ‘stepping into the pages of a book’ that I experienced so many times, when I was a child and an insatiable book worm. And I hope that every child who reads my little book will discover the joy of ‘living’ it too.
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
I absolutlely loved interviewing Annie Christensen, we had lots of fun e-mailing back and forth, questions were changed slightly in order to sound better. Her answers were brilliant, thankyou Annie for letting me wreak havoc on you for a while.
Tomorrow I shall be reviewing 'Six Minutes Past Midnight.' in my book review, I have not yet decided which other book to review?? Maybe 'Neverdark' By C.S. Enfield? We shall see.
And a huge thankyou to Kevin Kimmage for helping me, you know what for, thankyou.
I absolutlely loved interviewing Annie Christensen, we had lots of fun e-mailing back and forth, questions were changed slightly in order to sound better. Her answers were brilliant, thankyou Annie for letting me wreak havoc on you for a while.
Tomorrow I shall be reviewing 'Six Minutes Past Midnight.' in my book review, I have not yet decided which other book to review?? Maybe 'Neverdark' By C.S. Enfield? We shall see.
And a huge thankyou to Kevin Kimmage for helping me, you know what for, thankyou.
Monday 9 July 2012
Another childhood favourite book
Good morning people.
I hope all is okay?
Thought I would share another favourite book of mine. This book takes me back to 1993, when I started getting into horror books, my first taste of a horror book was a book called 'Welcome to Deadhouse.' by R.L. Stine, his first in many of the Goosebumps series.
You could always find me in the local library after school and even on a Saturday, looking through loads of books, trying to decide which ones to take out and which ones I would take out next time. An average sized book would take me an evening to read, without skimming pages and retaining lots of information about the characters etc...
Each book took me on a whole new adventure, it was a way to escape the boring reality and look into a world of fantasy where anything was possible.
My memory is slightly blurred as to what books I used to read from the age of 4-7, though aged 7 I read a book in the school library called 'Dancing Nadine.' The front cover called to me (aswell as the title lol) there was a girl in what I think was a leotard dancing on grass in the moonlight.
By the time I was 9, I'd started reading war poetry by such people as Siegfried Sassoon and Wilfred Owen. If I remember rightly these two met whilst in hospital on the front line, recovering from injuries. Owen was sent back to the front line and died in October 1918, a month before the war ended. From his poetry I gathered that at first it was some big adventure for glory, but then his poetry changed, full of woe, misery, sadness and such anger at what he was seeing and some sort of plea, to get him out of there, to get them all out of there.
Okay onto 'Welcome to Deadhouse.'
This book scared ten bells out of me, it wasn't so much the creepiness of the book, it was how it was written, the tone and voice.
This book centres around Amanda & Josh, who move to Dark Falls with their parents.
From the moment they step foot in dark falls, things begin to happen. Why is it so dark? Why does the neighbourhood feel so abandoned? And why do the local kids act so strangely.
And when the sun comes out, everyone goes in.
R.L. Stine is a master of the creepy for young children (10yrs plus though) and such a good writer.
I recently re-read this book, my daughter wanted to read a horror book, so I thought this would be the perfect one. It still gives me the creeps even though I know what is coming, this book has lost non of it's spine tingling 'power' lol.
I used to get books for my kids, you know the usual like, Winnie the Pooh, Alice in wonderland etc...
Dean is the hardest one to get to read now, though he is slowly improving.
At one stage he refused point blank to read and as usual (he was about 5) and again i turned to books I loved during childhood - The Funnybones series by Janet & Alan Ahlberg. The characters are funny, the stories are hilarious and the books are colourful, which I've noticed encourages reading from my kids, don't know if it works for everyone?
Come to think of it I remember being about 4 and reading Burglar Bill, also by the same duo.
So please do try the Funnybones series and Burglar Bill, it may intrigue your child and encourage them to read a little more.
Thankyou for reading, see you guys/gals on friday.
I hope all is okay?
Thought I would share another favourite book of mine. This book takes me back to 1993, when I started getting into horror books, my first taste of a horror book was a book called 'Welcome to Deadhouse.' by R.L. Stine, his first in many of the Goosebumps series.
You could always find me in the local library after school and even on a Saturday, looking through loads of books, trying to decide which ones to take out and which ones I would take out next time. An average sized book would take me an evening to read, without skimming pages and retaining lots of information about the characters etc...
Each book took me on a whole new adventure, it was a way to escape the boring reality and look into a world of fantasy where anything was possible.
My memory is slightly blurred as to what books I used to read from the age of 4-7, though aged 7 I read a book in the school library called 'Dancing Nadine.' The front cover called to me (aswell as the title lol) there was a girl in what I think was a leotard dancing on grass in the moonlight.
By the time I was 9, I'd started reading war poetry by such people as Siegfried Sassoon and Wilfred Owen. If I remember rightly these two met whilst in hospital on the front line, recovering from injuries. Owen was sent back to the front line and died in October 1918, a month before the war ended. From his poetry I gathered that at first it was some big adventure for glory, but then his poetry changed, full of woe, misery, sadness and such anger at what he was seeing and some sort of plea, to get him out of there, to get them all out of there.
Okay onto 'Welcome to Deadhouse.'
This book scared ten bells out of me, it wasn't so much the creepiness of the book, it was how it was written, the tone and voice.
This book centres around Amanda & Josh, who move to Dark Falls with their parents.
From the moment they step foot in dark falls, things begin to happen. Why is it so dark? Why does the neighbourhood feel so abandoned? And why do the local kids act so strangely.
And when the sun comes out, everyone goes in.
R.L. Stine is a master of the creepy for young children (10yrs plus though) and such a good writer.
I recently re-read this book, my daughter wanted to read a horror book, so I thought this would be the perfect one. It still gives me the creeps even though I know what is coming, this book has lost non of it's spine tingling 'power' lol.
I used to get books for my kids, you know the usual like, Winnie the Pooh, Alice in wonderland etc...
Dean is the hardest one to get to read now, though he is slowly improving.
At one stage he refused point blank to read and as usual (he was about 5) and again i turned to books I loved during childhood - The Funnybones series by Janet & Alan Ahlberg. The characters are funny, the stories are hilarious and the books are colourful, which I've noticed encourages reading from my kids, don't know if it works for everyone?
Come to think of it I remember being about 4 and reading Burglar Bill, also by the same duo.
So please do try the Funnybones series and Burglar Bill, it may intrigue your child and encourage them to read a little more.
Thankyou for reading, see you guys/gals on friday.
Saturday 7 July 2012
Book review no2 - Warhorse by Micheal Morpurgo & Junk by Melvin Burgess
Hey ho everyone.
I do hope all is okay with you all?
Okay another two book reviews this week and this week my focus is on 'Warhorse' By Micheal Morpurgo & 'Junk' By Melvin Burgess.
First a bit about the author Micheal Morpurgo. He was born in October 1943, after training for the army, he decided to take up a teaching post having gained a degree.
After a while he noticed he had a talent for story telling and so came the transition from teacher to writer.
Warhorse appeared in 1982 an (i think) was shortlisted as best children's book of the year, however (I'm using my memory so this may not be quite right.) Roald Dahl said that the book was too advanced for its time and that children may not quite understand the misery and cruelty contained within the book and so Micheal lost out, that didn't phase him as (if i remember reading correctly) knew that children needed to know the horror of war and the touching bond between horse and man.
Here is my review of Warhorse.
First of all this is a unique book told from the view point of Joey the horse, who once seperated from his mother ends up on a farm, where Albert bonds with him and looks after him.
Albert is only 15 and when war comes, his father sells Joey to the army. Captain Nicholls promises to look after Joey and from here the horror begins.
Joey meets Topthorn a magnificent black horse who stands 3 hands higher than him, but he is gentle and protective. Nicholls is killed leaving Joey in the hands of the Germans, who look after him well. Topthorn is with him.
Whilst there they stay at a farm where Emilie & her grandfather take care of them, but before long the horses are hauled away, back to war.
Worked beyond limits, many horses perish in the harsh winter and the spring that follows, Topthorn keels over and dies shortly after. Joey is devastated.
The rest and how the story ends? You will have to read the book, as I don't want to give it away.
All in all it is a wonderful story, with misery of war, heartache, heart break and some touching moments. And a final twist in the story of Joey and Albert, who promised him he would find him again.
Simply moving and touching, something that will stay with me forever. 5 out of 5. For me personally this book would suit anyone from the age of 10yrs up, especially if you enjoy history, like i do.
Now onto Junk By Melvin Burgess.
But first a little about the author. Melvin was born in April 1954. His first book was published in 1990. Melvin trained as a journalist, he started writing in his 20's but it was 15yrs before his first book 'The cry of the wolf' was published.
Junk was published in 1996, to much contraversy, due to the nature the book dealt with - the world of drugs and heroin addicted teens. This book was published in the shadow of the film Trainspotting, which also dealt with this issue to an extent.
Junk centres on Gemma & Tar, young people in love, Tar dreams of running away from his life and he wants Gemma to come with him. When they reach their destination, they meet new people, who are not all they seem. Gemma & Tar are drawn deeper into the world of drug taking and both seem to enjoy it, that is until something happens that will change them both. The rest as I always say, you got to read lol.
This book is more for 13 plus due to the content. Overall a good book that deals with the realities and concequences of the characters choices. I would give this 4.5 out of 5.
Okay thats my book reviews for this week, tune in on Friday where I shall be interviewing self published author - Annie Christensen.
And next weeks review will be 'Six Minutes Past Midnight.' & Fallen by Lauren Kate.
I do hope all is okay with you all?
Okay another two book reviews this week and this week my focus is on 'Warhorse' By Micheal Morpurgo & 'Junk' By Melvin Burgess.
First a bit about the author Micheal Morpurgo. He was born in October 1943, after training for the army, he decided to take up a teaching post having gained a degree.
After a while he noticed he had a talent for story telling and so came the transition from teacher to writer.
Warhorse appeared in 1982 an (i think) was shortlisted as best children's book of the year, however (I'm using my memory so this may not be quite right.) Roald Dahl said that the book was too advanced for its time and that children may not quite understand the misery and cruelty contained within the book and so Micheal lost out, that didn't phase him as (if i remember reading correctly) knew that children needed to know the horror of war and the touching bond between horse and man.
Here is my review of Warhorse.
First of all this is a unique book told from the view point of Joey the horse, who once seperated from his mother ends up on a farm, where Albert bonds with him and looks after him.
Albert is only 15 and when war comes, his father sells Joey to the army. Captain Nicholls promises to look after Joey and from here the horror begins.
Joey meets Topthorn a magnificent black horse who stands 3 hands higher than him, but he is gentle and protective. Nicholls is killed leaving Joey in the hands of the Germans, who look after him well. Topthorn is with him.
Whilst there they stay at a farm where Emilie & her grandfather take care of them, but before long the horses are hauled away, back to war.
Worked beyond limits, many horses perish in the harsh winter and the spring that follows, Topthorn keels over and dies shortly after. Joey is devastated.
The rest and how the story ends? You will have to read the book, as I don't want to give it away.
All in all it is a wonderful story, with misery of war, heartache, heart break and some touching moments. And a final twist in the story of Joey and Albert, who promised him he would find him again.
Simply moving and touching, something that will stay with me forever. 5 out of 5. For me personally this book would suit anyone from the age of 10yrs up, especially if you enjoy history, like i do.
Now onto Junk By Melvin Burgess.
But first a little about the author. Melvin was born in April 1954. His first book was published in 1990. Melvin trained as a journalist, he started writing in his 20's but it was 15yrs before his first book 'The cry of the wolf' was published.
Junk was published in 1996, to much contraversy, due to the nature the book dealt with - the world of drugs and heroin addicted teens. This book was published in the shadow of the film Trainspotting, which also dealt with this issue to an extent.
Junk centres on Gemma & Tar, young people in love, Tar dreams of running away from his life and he wants Gemma to come with him. When they reach their destination, they meet new people, who are not all they seem. Gemma & Tar are drawn deeper into the world of drug taking and both seem to enjoy it, that is until something happens that will change them both. The rest as I always say, you got to read lol.
This book is more for 13 plus due to the content. Overall a good book that deals with the realities and concequences of the characters choices. I would give this 4.5 out of 5.
Okay thats my book reviews for this week, tune in on Friday where I shall be interviewing self published author - Annie Christensen.
And next weeks review will be 'Six Minutes Past Midnight.' & Fallen by Lauren Kate.
Friday 6 July 2012
My first interview with friend & parent Nat Bennett
Good Morning/Evening people.
I hope all is well?
Well it is Friday again and my first interview is here.
Natalie is now a dear friend, whom I met in University, we hit it off right away and feel virtually inseperable. Obviously we have different tastes in books and tv, but diversity is a good thing.
Here is the interview which took place via e-mail on Monday.
Question 1 - If possible what was the first book you remember reading?
Nat - My nursey rhyme collection & Alice In Wonderland.
Question 2 - When did you notice you had the 'reading bug'?
Nat - From a very early age, I have always been interested in books. Each week from the age of 8, I would spend my money on a book, every Saturday I'd spend hours looking in the little bookshop in town. I remember getting really excited when a new Point Horror book was released.
Question 3 - As a child, who were your favourite authors?
Nat - Roald Dahl, Lewis Carroll, Rudyard Kipling, R.L. Stine & Richie Tankersley Cusack.
Question 4 - Name one author you'd like to meet, living or dead?
Nat - Well I'd like to meet three and they are - Emily Dickenson, Sylvia Plath & Jane Austen.
Question 5 - What was your childhood view on reading?
Nat - Escapism from the realities life brought. When you open a book you become lost in another world, that is what has always held my interest. Reading is a pleasure, and can also make life a little brighter, especially if you can relate to the character in the book and of course the plotline.
Question 6 - As a teen, what kind of books were you into?
Nat - Ghost stories and horror. I had the whole collection of Point Horror books. They were wonderful stories, scary and haunting too, but it was what I liked.
Question 7 - What or who would you say influenced your reading? And why?
Nat - Life has influenced my reading, when you are feeling down or the world around you is in turmoil, reading helps you escape from inner demons and torment.
Question 8 - Has your taste in reading evolved as you have grown older?
Nat - I have grown to love good literature, I understand now that there are many many layers to a good classic piece of writing, I endeavour to unfold each text I read and put myself in the authors position, why did he/she write it from this point of view. I often wonder what I would have written differently and why. I appreciate the classics, studying literature for my degree has influenced the type of book I chose to read.
Question 9 - Name one book you couldn't live without?
Nat - Jane Austen.
Question 10 - Name one author the world would be lost without?
Nat - Charles Dickens.
Question 11 - As a parent, do you influence your child's reading?
Nat - I am very lucky in regards to my childs reading, he is a real bookworm. from a very young age he would choose a book and study the pictures, his reading is excellent and he loves a challenge. he enjoys comical books with graphics which are brightly coloured.
Question 12 - What was the first book you read to your child?
Nat - The Gingerbread Man.
Question 13 - If you could give your child one book, what would it be?
Nat - The Gruffalo By Julia Donaldson.
Question 14 - Do you thinksociety has an issue with children reading?
Nat - No, I think all good schools promote the importance of reading, this is seen through the world book days and studying books at school. the Education Authority encourages children to read, and I believe this to be an excellent gift.
Question 15 - Final question - Do you think children find reading boring and obsolete?
Nat - I think it's possible that some children find reading boring, I think parenting has a great deal to do with whether children read or not. As a parent it is your duty to your child to introduce them to meaningful texts and show them the books that are on offer. it doesnt have to cost anything, the library is free to all.
Thankyou so much Nat for that insightful interview. It has been a pleasure getting to know your in's and out's of reading and everything to do with it.
That's the interview for this week, but tomorrow I am doing my weekly book review, this weeks books are Warhorse By Micheal Morpurgo and quite a contraversial book - Junk By Melvin Burgess.
And tune in next week for the next blog where I shall be interviewing self published author Annie Christensen, where we shall be talking books, influences, early reading and her current book - 'Six Minutes Past Midnight', which is a spell binding book full of adventure, comedy and friendship.
I hope all is well?
Well it is Friday again and my first interview is here.
Natalie is now a dear friend, whom I met in University, we hit it off right away and feel virtually inseperable. Obviously we have different tastes in books and tv, but diversity is a good thing.
Here is the interview which took place via e-mail on Monday.
Question 1 - If possible what was the first book you remember reading?
Nat - My nursey rhyme collection & Alice In Wonderland.
Question 2 - When did you notice you had the 'reading bug'?
Nat - From a very early age, I have always been interested in books. Each week from the age of 8, I would spend my money on a book, every Saturday I'd spend hours looking in the little bookshop in town. I remember getting really excited when a new Point Horror book was released.
Question 3 - As a child, who were your favourite authors?
Nat - Roald Dahl, Lewis Carroll, Rudyard Kipling, R.L. Stine & Richie Tankersley Cusack.
Question 4 - Name one author you'd like to meet, living or dead?
Nat - Well I'd like to meet three and they are - Emily Dickenson, Sylvia Plath & Jane Austen.
Question 5 - What was your childhood view on reading?
Nat - Escapism from the realities life brought. When you open a book you become lost in another world, that is what has always held my interest. Reading is a pleasure, and can also make life a little brighter, especially if you can relate to the character in the book and of course the plotline.
Question 6 - As a teen, what kind of books were you into?
Nat - Ghost stories and horror. I had the whole collection of Point Horror books. They were wonderful stories, scary and haunting too, but it was what I liked.
Question 7 - What or who would you say influenced your reading? And why?
Nat - Life has influenced my reading, when you are feeling down or the world around you is in turmoil, reading helps you escape from inner demons and torment.
Question 8 - Has your taste in reading evolved as you have grown older?
Nat - I have grown to love good literature, I understand now that there are many many layers to a good classic piece of writing, I endeavour to unfold each text I read and put myself in the authors position, why did he/she write it from this point of view. I often wonder what I would have written differently and why. I appreciate the classics, studying literature for my degree has influenced the type of book I chose to read.
Question 9 - Name one book you couldn't live without?
Nat - Jane Austen.
Question 10 - Name one author the world would be lost without?
Nat - Charles Dickens.
Question 11 - As a parent, do you influence your child's reading?
Nat - I am very lucky in regards to my childs reading, he is a real bookworm. from a very young age he would choose a book and study the pictures, his reading is excellent and he loves a challenge. he enjoys comical books with graphics which are brightly coloured.
Question 12 - What was the first book you read to your child?
Nat - The Gingerbread Man.
Question 13 - If you could give your child one book, what would it be?
Nat - The Gruffalo By Julia Donaldson.
Question 14 - Do you thinksociety has an issue with children reading?
Nat - No, I think all good schools promote the importance of reading, this is seen through the world book days and studying books at school. the Education Authority encourages children to read, and I believe this to be an excellent gift.
Question 15 - Final question - Do you think children find reading boring and obsolete?
Nat - I think it's possible that some children find reading boring, I think parenting has a great deal to do with whether children read or not. As a parent it is your duty to your child to introduce them to meaningful texts and show them the books that are on offer. it doesnt have to cost anything, the library is free to all.
Thankyou so much Nat for that insightful interview. It has been a pleasure getting to know your in's and out's of reading and everything to do with it.
That's the interview for this week, but tomorrow I am doing my weekly book review, this weeks books are Warhorse By Micheal Morpurgo and quite a contraversial book - Junk By Melvin Burgess.
And tune in next week for the next blog where I shall be interviewing self published author Annie Christensen, where we shall be talking books, influences, early reading and her current book - 'Six Minutes Past Midnight', which is a spell binding book full of adventure, comedy and friendship.
Saturday 30 June 2012
Book Review Number 1
Good morning/evening people.
Okay, time for two book reviews, this will be a weekly slot where I review two different books, from different genres, age groups and current trends.
If anyone has any suggestions for a book review please leave a comment and I will do my best to get around to reviewing the book or books you suggest.
First book review is - Skellig By David Almond.
David Almond grew up in the North East, he comes from a big family, in his lifetime he has been - a postman, a brush salesman, an editor and a teacher. He always wanted to write and has written many prize winning books for both adults and children.
Skellig was first published in 1998, it's age range is roughly 8-12 but I personally think this would appeal to any age.
Here is an extract for the book, remember I hold no copyright, this belongs to the author at all times - 'He was lying there in the darkness behind the tea chests, in the dust and dirt. It was as if he'd been there forever.' Copyright D. Almond.
This is just the beginning of a magical adventure for the main character Micheal. His baby sister is ill, they've just moved house, he finds it boring, that is until he wanders into the crumbling garage, only to discover someone is there.
Micheal meets Mina and together they learn from eachother through various activities, when Micheal shows Mina what is hiding in the garage and together they move him to somewhere safe. With their help, Skellig regains strength and shows them who he really is, but what is he? An angel? An owl? A hybrid? Or something other wordly?
Will his baby sister survive? Or will she be with the angels?
You'll have to read the book to find out. It is available second hand on http://www.play.com/
You can guarantee a lovely moving story, full of magic, possibilities and surprises.
I was introduced to this book by my daughter, they were reading it at school. She came home begging me to find and buy her a copy and so I did and I bought myself one aswell. It is a truly wonderful story, one that captures the imagination and makes you wonder - do we really have guardians who watch over us?
Out of 5 stars I rate this book 5 out of 5.
Onto my second book review for the week - 'Dead Man's Cove' By Lauren St. John.
If you're a fan of either Enid Blyton or R.L. Stevenson's 'Treasure Island' you may well enjoy this book.
Before this was published, Lauren St. John had written a series for children - The White Giraffe, Dolphin song, The last leopard and The elephant's tale.
Dead Man's Cove was first published in 2010, again the age range is around 8-12, but anyone who likes an adventure story, this will suit you well.
Here is a small exert, again I do not hold copyright, this as always belongs to the author - 'Orphaned Laura is sent to live with her Uncle in Cornwall. Everywhere she turns she's confronted with mysteries. Why does her Uncle seem intent on erasing his own past? And why is everyone so afraid of Dead Man's Cove?' Copyright L. St. John.
It centres around an Orphan called - Laura (the theme of an orphan is often used in books, esp the main character, example - treasure island.) who lives in a care home, she dreams of adventure, a mysterious Uncle is located and so Laura is packed off to go and live with her mysterious Uncle. Awaiting her are mysteries, adventure and a deadly race for survival. She meets a shy shop keepers son, who to her feels like a complete mystery, even more so when Laura digs deeper into what is going on.
She uncovers something I don't think she expected. It is down to her faithful canine friend Skye to find them before the tide washes them away.
Full of mystery, twists, turns, lovely moments, scary moments and most of all adventure, this book proves - be careful what you wish for, it may come true.
Out of 5 stars I give it 4.9, a wonderful book, wonderfully written by a creative author, this is one to keep.
This book is available in most book shops and available online at such places as http://www.play.com/ & http://www.amazon.co.uk/ and obviously amazon usa.
Thanks for reading this, if you have?? Lol, like I said earlier if you wish me to review any books at somepoint in time (hopefully not long, depending if I have read it before, or have to go and buy it lol) please leave a comment and I will do my best.
Catch you on Friday, where I will be interviewing a friend and fellow parent, then Saturday another book review.
Have a fantastic weekend :-)
Okay, time for two book reviews, this will be a weekly slot where I review two different books, from different genres, age groups and current trends.
If anyone has any suggestions for a book review please leave a comment and I will do my best to get around to reviewing the book or books you suggest.
First book review is - Skellig By David Almond.
David Almond grew up in the North East, he comes from a big family, in his lifetime he has been - a postman, a brush salesman, an editor and a teacher. He always wanted to write and has written many prize winning books for both adults and children.
Skellig was first published in 1998, it's age range is roughly 8-12 but I personally think this would appeal to any age.
Here is an extract for the book, remember I hold no copyright, this belongs to the author at all times - 'He was lying there in the darkness behind the tea chests, in the dust and dirt. It was as if he'd been there forever.' Copyright D. Almond.
This is just the beginning of a magical adventure for the main character Micheal. His baby sister is ill, they've just moved house, he finds it boring, that is until he wanders into the crumbling garage, only to discover someone is there.
Micheal meets Mina and together they learn from eachother through various activities, when Micheal shows Mina what is hiding in the garage and together they move him to somewhere safe. With their help, Skellig regains strength and shows them who he really is, but what is he? An angel? An owl? A hybrid? Or something other wordly?
Will his baby sister survive? Or will she be with the angels?
You'll have to read the book to find out. It is available second hand on http://www.play.com/
You can guarantee a lovely moving story, full of magic, possibilities and surprises.
I was introduced to this book by my daughter, they were reading it at school. She came home begging me to find and buy her a copy and so I did and I bought myself one aswell. It is a truly wonderful story, one that captures the imagination and makes you wonder - do we really have guardians who watch over us?
Out of 5 stars I rate this book 5 out of 5.
Onto my second book review for the week - 'Dead Man's Cove' By Lauren St. John.
If you're a fan of either Enid Blyton or R.L. Stevenson's 'Treasure Island' you may well enjoy this book.
Before this was published, Lauren St. John had written a series for children - The White Giraffe, Dolphin song, The last leopard and The elephant's tale.
Dead Man's Cove was first published in 2010, again the age range is around 8-12, but anyone who likes an adventure story, this will suit you well.
Here is a small exert, again I do not hold copyright, this as always belongs to the author - 'Orphaned Laura is sent to live with her Uncle in Cornwall. Everywhere she turns she's confronted with mysteries. Why does her Uncle seem intent on erasing his own past? And why is everyone so afraid of Dead Man's Cove?' Copyright L. St. John.
It centres around an Orphan called - Laura (the theme of an orphan is often used in books, esp the main character, example - treasure island.) who lives in a care home, she dreams of adventure, a mysterious Uncle is located and so Laura is packed off to go and live with her mysterious Uncle. Awaiting her are mysteries, adventure and a deadly race for survival. She meets a shy shop keepers son, who to her feels like a complete mystery, even more so when Laura digs deeper into what is going on.
She uncovers something I don't think she expected. It is down to her faithful canine friend Skye to find them before the tide washes them away.
Full of mystery, twists, turns, lovely moments, scary moments and most of all adventure, this book proves - be careful what you wish for, it may come true.
Out of 5 stars I give it 4.9, a wonderful book, wonderfully written by a creative author, this is one to keep.
This book is available in most book shops and available online at such places as http://www.play.com/ & http://www.amazon.co.uk/ and obviously amazon usa.
Thanks for reading this, if you have?? Lol, like I said earlier if you wish me to review any books at somepoint in time (hopefully not long, depending if I have read it before, or have to go and buy it lol) please leave a comment and I will do my best.
Catch you on Friday, where I will be interviewing a friend and fellow parent, then Saturday another book review.
Have a fantastic weekend :-)
Friday 29 June 2012
Parent view of a fave childhood book.: A favourite childhood book
Parent view of a fave childhood book.: A favourite childhood book: As a child I could do nothing but read, it was all I wanted to do. It took a while for me to catch the 'reading bug' but once that happened...
A favourite childhood book
As a child I could do nothing but read, it was all I wanted to do.
It took a while for me to catch the 'reading bug' but once that happened a whole new world opened up for me, a world where anything could happen at any given time.
I have noticed over time that most children do not seem interested in reading, they'd rather play video games, watch tv or do something that for me is mind numbing. Obviously certain video games are ok, they can build up hand eye coordination, but most games I have seem children play, don't do anything other than entertain, which is all well and good every now and again, when you need something to get them out of your way for a while.
I am not condemning outdoor activities, as this keeps them fit and active. But it would seem that over the past 10yrs (or maybe even more) reading isn't seen as something cool to do, instead they prefer to maybe out do eachother with the latest phone or game or games console.
I didn't have that option as a child, computers were really expensive and mobile phones looked like bricks and weighed a ton lol.
This blog today is going to take me back to my childhood, where I remember reading so many different books from such brilliant authors, one which I will discuss shortly.
Okay onto a favourite childhood book, which to this day I still adore and laugh at.
The author's name was -Roald Dahl (many millions of people have heard of him), who sadly passed away in 1991 (I think??). He had written many books, but the one I wish to focus on is - Georges Marvellous Medicine. (I have read quite a few of his books).
George is a boy who lives at home with his parents and Grandma. He hates his Grandma as she is rude, disgusting and cruel. His parents go out, leaving him in charge of giving his Grandma her medicine, this is where the fun begins. He puts allsorts into the medicine before giving it Grandma with hilarious results.
When I read this book for the first time, I really had no idea what to expect. As a child reading this book, I found his Grandma hideous and thanked whoever for giving me lovely grandparents. When George administered the medicine to his grandma I had a feeling something awesome was going to happen. With each turning of the page, I was dragged (happily I have to say) more into the story.
And when George's mum finds out, she panics, so poor George has to make the 'medicine' all over again, but he cannot remember all the ingredients he used. (Paint was one of the weird ingredients amongst others.) The end result? You will have to read the book to find out.
I honestly have no clue as to how parents influence their childs reading? My daughter who is almost 11, was a pain to try to read a simple book. It took me a whole year to turn her around to the idea of reading a book. At first she refused, that made me frustrated and her upset, but all I wanted, was for her to grasp the basics of reading. After a 2 day break, I tried again, not much change on her part, but to her credit she read a page lol.
A month in and I decided to buy some books that I had read as a child, mainly Roald Dahl, though I did have books by other authors like Micheal Rosen and Spike Milligan.
Slowly but surely I encouraged her to pick up the book and to try to make up her own story just by looking at the front cover, result = progress.
By the end of the year (it was a long haul lol) her confidence had grown and ever since then hasn't stopped reading and likes nothing more than to curl up with a hot drink and a good book. Currently she is moaning that she has a lack of books (200 at the last count) and so I have decided to buy her a kindle as this will store many more books than her bedroom can take he he he.
It was a brilliant book by a fantastic author. Thankyou Roald Dahl, you no doubt inspired millions, me included.
Next weeks blog will be an interview with a friend and fellow parent, we shall discuss her own childhood influences, what she reads now and does she influence what her child reads? Or is it free reign? Or a balance between the two?
Thanks for reading xx
Nadine :-)
It took a while for me to catch the 'reading bug' but once that happened a whole new world opened up for me, a world where anything could happen at any given time.
I have noticed over time that most children do not seem interested in reading, they'd rather play video games, watch tv or do something that for me is mind numbing. Obviously certain video games are ok, they can build up hand eye coordination, but most games I have seem children play, don't do anything other than entertain, which is all well and good every now and again, when you need something to get them out of your way for a while.
I am not condemning outdoor activities, as this keeps them fit and active. But it would seem that over the past 10yrs (or maybe even more) reading isn't seen as something cool to do, instead they prefer to maybe out do eachother with the latest phone or game or games console.
I didn't have that option as a child, computers were really expensive and mobile phones looked like bricks and weighed a ton lol.
This blog today is going to take me back to my childhood, where I remember reading so many different books from such brilliant authors, one which I will discuss shortly.
Okay onto a favourite childhood book, which to this day I still adore and laugh at.
The author's name was -Roald Dahl (many millions of people have heard of him), who sadly passed away in 1991 (I think??). He had written many books, but the one I wish to focus on is - Georges Marvellous Medicine. (I have read quite a few of his books).
George is a boy who lives at home with his parents and Grandma. He hates his Grandma as she is rude, disgusting and cruel. His parents go out, leaving him in charge of giving his Grandma her medicine, this is where the fun begins. He puts allsorts into the medicine before giving it Grandma with hilarious results.
When I read this book for the first time, I really had no idea what to expect. As a child reading this book, I found his Grandma hideous and thanked whoever for giving me lovely grandparents. When George administered the medicine to his grandma I had a feeling something awesome was going to happen. With each turning of the page, I was dragged (happily I have to say) more into the story.
And when George's mum finds out, she panics, so poor George has to make the 'medicine' all over again, but he cannot remember all the ingredients he used. (Paint was one of the weird ingredients amongst others.) The end result? You will have to read the book to find out.
I honestly have no clue as to how parents influence their childs reading? My daughter who is almost 11, was a pain to try to read a simple book. It took me a whole year to turn her around to the idea of reading a book. At first she refused, that made me frustrated and her upset, but all I wanted, was for her to grasp the basics of reading. After a 2 day break, I tried again, not much change on her part, but to her credit she read a page lol.
A month in and I decided to buy some books that I had read as a child, mainly Roald Dahl, though I did have books by other authors like Micheal Rosen and Spike Milligan.
Slowly but surely I encouraged her to pick up the book and to try to make up her own story just by looking at the front cover, result = progress.
By the end of the year (it was a long haul lol) her confidence had grown and ever since then hasn't stopped reading and likes nothing more than to curl up with a hot drink and a good book. Currently she is moaning that she has a lack of books (200 at the last count) and so I have decided to buy her a kindle as this will store many more books than her bedroom can take he he he.
It was a brilliant book by a fantastic author. Thankyou Roald Dahl, you no doubt inspired millions, me included.
Next weeks blog will be an interview with a friend and fellow parent, we shall discuss her own childhood influences, what she reads now and does she influence what her child reads? Or is it free reign? Or a balance between the two?
Thanks for reading xx
Nadine :-)
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