Tribute To a Dog Named Brandy

Brandy (2001? - 4/25/2013)

Our hearts are broken. We said good-bye to our sweet girl today.

Brandy came to us through Central California Labrador Retriever Rescue (CCLRR). We fell in love with her when we went to meet her at the home where she hung out with several other foster labs and the foster parents' dogs.

CCLRR rescued her from the Sacramento County pound who picked her up on the streets, wearing a choke chain with no tags and signs she had puppies recently. We adopted her July 25, 2004 and she was a love from the start. She returned a charming smile every time we showered her with pets and tummy rubs. Yes... she actually smiled.

The first book I wrote (not yet published) contains a section on Brandy. From my perspective, it gives a glimpse of how dogs, one of God's finest creations after man, can bring an awareness and understanding of God's love and care for us.

She was my running partner and ever-present furry companion. Brandy will be sorely missed.

What is a Book App and Could YOU Create One?

Karen Robertson is a pioneer in developing picture books into apps for children. She has added speaker and coach to her roll of children’s book app author through her workshops and ebooks. As a result, Karen has helped many writers fulfill their dream to see their books released as apps to a worldwide audience of children.

Just released and now available FREE for a limited time (through April 13), What is a Book App and Could YOU Create One? How 27 Writers Did! This 5-star rated ebook is essential to any children's writer considering digital publishing for their book.

In this ebook, Karen, explains what is a book app, why it’s such an exciting publishing option, what you need to know about this opportunity, and how it's done so you can decide if it’s right for you to publish your children’s book as an app.

The highlight of the ebook is personal stories of 27 other writers who've turned their books into apps. After reading each account, you’ll see there are lots of ways to make a book app happen in a way that meets your objectives and budget, even if you aren’t technically inclined.

Now for the exciting part! Did you notice I am one of those 27 writers? What is a Book App... tells my story of turning The Prisoner of Carrot Castle into an iPad app. Of course readers to this blog for a while were able to follow my story in the series: Developing an iPad App. Use the search box on the right side of this blog to find the posts for the series.

This ebook is available exclusively on Kindle and FREE to download until April 13. You don't have to have a Kindle reader. Download the free Kindle app from your device's store (e.g., Apple App Store for iPad) that allows you to read books from the Amazon Kindle store on your Apple or Android device. It's super easy and the app is free.

Check back after you've read the book and let me know your thoughts about developing an app of your children's book.

Plastic Polly: Book Review and Launch

Book Launch
Last month Jenny Lundquist's latest middle grade novel, Plastic Polly, was released and I attended her boisterous and fun Barnes and Noble launch party. A corner of the store buzzed with activity as Jenny's fervent fans and groupies, chatted and snapped pictures—all wearing "I < 3 #plasticpolly" dark-blue t-shirts.

What would we do without our groupies? Our family and friends who believe in us and support us throughout our crazy writing journey.

Here's to friends and family!

Book Review
Plastic Polly is the #2 popular girl in middle school at Winston Academy. Most popular is Polly's best friend, Kelsey, who doesn't take to those who would differ with her. Polly is quite comfortable being a follower until she is forced to look at the reality of things. Mending a broken relationship, living up to her mom's expectations and suddenly finding herself as the PlanMaster for the most important event in Maple Oaks presents some challenging character building opportunities.

Jenny Lundquist holds strong to her inner-middle-school persona in this book, her second, for that awkward age-group. With lines like, "My voice is so sugary, I'm probably giving myself cavities," how could you not feel the attitude with angst that surrounds a young girl trying to find her own path.

This book is a must for all girls (or boys who need a clue) who are in or looking towards middle school.