IN THIS MONTH'S ISSUE: Writing Month Author Exchange Future Events Conference Memories Door Prize Winners My Personal Gossip |
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This has been an incredible year for author events. I've had multiple events each month since the release of Omega Crag in May. The deadline for KIMIMILA RETURNS looms. So I will concentrate on writing and editing this month. |
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I need to be home--or at a coffee shop, or the library--to write and edit. Therefore, I'm taking a break from events during the month of October. I do have events planned for November to finish the year strong! |
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I'd like to introduce you to Kathleen Troy, JD; PhD, author of Dear Dylan's Dog Squad. Kathleen is a children’s book publisher, movie producer, writing and law professor at Cypress College, and former Director of Education and Development for the Archdiocese of Los Angeles. She is an active member of Sisters in Crime and the Society of Children’s Book Writers and Illustrators and has won several awards for middle-grade and young adult books. |
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When Casey, Sumo, and the loveable pup Dylan aren’t solving mysteries or catching bad guys, they’re visiting schools, working with Scouts, and supporting charity events. Along the way, they’re asked about their favorite topic—dogs! |
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Dear Dylan’s Dog Squad is inspired by those questions and is like a Dear Abby for dog lovers. Inside, you’ll find: Whether you’re a new dog owner or a lifelong pet lover, this book is packed with paw-some advice for every dog lover. |
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Posed with these questions ... What inspired you to write the book? What do you want readers to get out of reading your book? What did you enjoy most about writing it? Kathleen answered ... |
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"One day I met my friend Terri for lunch at our favorite restaurant. We used the first ten minutes to catch up on the latest (we see each other all the time) and then immediately launched into what we were writing. "Teri was finishing her young adult novel and would soon begin querying agents. I told her I had begun the sixth book in the Dylan’s Dog Squad series but I had an idea for a nonfiction book called Dear Dylan’s Dog Squad. Since I’d never written nonfiction before I was a little concerned. "What should it look like? What topics should I address? Teri, being a devoted mom to two Yorkies and one Shih Tzu Maltese, immediately jumped in with enthusiasm and great advice. Thanks to Teri, when we parted I had a clear vision of what to do. Two months later, Dear Dylan’s Dog Squad became a reality.
"It’s a fact: Dog people are generous and supportive. When I was researching topics for Dear Dylan’s Dog Squad, I sought advice and wisdom from national and local organizations such as the ASPCA (American Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals), Humane Society, Sunny Saints Southern California St. Bernard Rescue, German Shepherd Rescue of Orange County, and Mutts in Need. In each instance, I was greeted as if they were just waiting to hear from me.
"I can’t thank them enough for the work they do, the help, assistance, and education they provide, as well as their tireless efforts to provide forever homes to all the animals they serve. It was wonderful to connect with each of the organizations." |
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The SCBWI-Carolinas Fall Conference was incredible. Lots of learning, networking, and inspiration. Rather than share selfies this month, here are memories from the conference. Top row, left: Four of our six critique group members (Vicki Evans, me, Kim Newland, Susan Pless) Top row, right: My author-signing space Bottom row, left: Selfie with Whitney Skeen, my author signing table mate Bottom row, right: With Susan Pless at the author signing event |
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I've been giving away door prizes at author events over the past few months. Congratulations to these winners: Claire & Matthew C. won a pillow and an outdoor water cup Cara P. won a signed hardcover copy of Omega Crag Pierce B. won a signed hardcover copy of Omega Crag Sue Shumaker won a signed hardcover copy of Omega Crag Adrian G. won a signed hardcover copy of Omega Crag Amelia N. won a signed hardcover copy of Omega Crag Brooke G. won two tickets to the NC Zoo Sandra G. won two tickets to the NC Zoo
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The world changed for North Carolina when Helena barreled through last week. The devastation is catastrophic. Like so many people, my anxiety was through the roof waiting to hear if my son and his family were safe. They live in a remote, unincorporated town at the top of a mountain 45 minutes from Asheville. |
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While I was waiting by the phone, my son was clearing downed trees in his neighborhood. Then, on Sunday, he and his wife gathered the baby and all her things, loaded their two cars with everything they could possibly need (including a chainsaw) and headed north, south, west, and eventually east. They cleared trees when needed; they had to double back several times when they ran out of roads; but they made it to us. The relief to hear from them and know they were safe was a precious gift. When they arrived at our house, I received some of the best hugs of my life. They are here. They are safe. The rest doesn't matter. We are so very fortunate. Hubby and I have agonized over where we want to retire. We shift between the beach and the mountains. After Helene, I've decided I like the relatively boring Piedmont area. We have pretty views thanks to the Uwharrie Mountains. We have the biggest and best zoo on the planet. And whenever we want to get away, we can get to the beach or the mountains. |
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Online options for purchasing the award-winning middle-grade Zahra of the Uwharries series books for readers 8-12 years old and magical realism fantasy readers of all ages! |
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