Tag: blogging

BOOK NOOK REVIEWS: Nothing Special by Desiree Cooper

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TITLE: Nothing Special

AUTHOR: Desiree Cooper

ILLUSTRATOR: Bec Sloane

PUBLISHER: Wayne State University Press, 2022

SYNOPSIS: 

Six-year-old Jax can’t wait to leave Detroit and spend a week with his grandparents in coastal Virginia, where he’s sure he’ll be spoiled with the kinds of special things he enjoys at home: toys, movies, and hamburgers. As he dreams of the adventures he’ll have, his PopPop has other ideas. He fills their days with timeless summer fun-crabbing, shucking corn, and counting fireflies.

WHAT I LIKED ABOUT THIS BOOK : Everything about this book brings back overwhelming memories of growing up in the deep South. Going with the family to the nearest rocky beach for some crab hunting. Making homemade kites and flying them in the nearest open field. Shucking all the corn dumped on our front porch by the traveling vegetable man. I have some of the same sweet memories Jax has to take back home! And the lovely illustrations remind me of Claymation’s cartoon characters I would wait all year long to watch on TV each Christmas season. Nothing special memories for some folk, but they meant the world to me. A great addition to any library!

RATING: ***** 5 Stars*****

RATING SYSTEM:

1 star…probably not worth your time

2 stars…there are some things to like but some elements could have been stronger.

3 stars…this story will appeal to some readers, but others might find it lacking something.

4 stars…strong story, nice illustrations, and should grab the attention of many readers.

5 stars…superbly written story, stellar illustrations, a must addition to any book lovers’ collection!

************

What do books and a martial arts tournament have in common? For Alex, Billy, and Nathan…A LOT! Based loosely on a true story, follow these three friends as they work to raise enough money to enter their school’s tournament. Who will win, who will lose, and who will learn a valuable lesson? Read THE WARRIORS THREE to find out! 

Fourth Degree Black Belt and award-winning children’s author, Donna L Martin, creates a sports adventure story for any boy or girl who has ever struggled with self-confidence or wanting to give up on their dreams of winning at something.

Hybrid published author, Donna L Martin, has been writing since she was eight years old. She is a 4th Degree Black Belt in Taekwondo by day and a ‘ninja’ writer of flash fiction, children’s picture books, chapter books, young adult novels and inspirational essays by night. Donna offers occasional BOOK NOOK REVIEWS of great children’s books and offers WRITERLY WISDOM to new and established writers. She is a member of the Society of Children’s Book Writers & Illustrators, Alliance of Independent Authors, and Children’s Book Insider. Donna loves dark chocolate, going to the beach and adding to her growing book collection.

Want to connect?

Email: www.donasdays@gmail.com

Facebook: www.facebook.com/donasdays

Twitter: www.twitter.com/donasdays

LinkedIn: Donna L Martin/Story Catcher Publishing

Goodreads: Donna L Martin

Mail: Donna L Martin

c/o Story Catcher Publishing

P O Box 27788

Knoxville, Tn 37927

Story Catcher Publishing Expansion: Who Wants To Be A Winner?

storycatcherpublishing

Whether it’s your first book or your tenth one, it’s always celebration time when your book is finally born and sent out into the world to be shared with others.

Yesterday, Story Catcher Publishing released its tenth children’s book, THE WARRIORS THREE and we’re continuing the celebration with not ONE, or TWO, but FIVE signed copies of this sport adventure chapter book kids ages 7-12 years old. Story Catcher Publishing will also be giving away FIVE swag bags of goodies! All you need to do is click on the Rafflecopter link below for a chance to be entered into the FREE drawing! Winners will be announced on Monday, 5/29…Memorial Day in the US.

https://www.rafflecopter.com/rafl/display/10046a023/

The reviews are starting to roll in and we’re dancing a jig!

 “Great children’s book Reviewed in the United States on May 16, 2023

I really enjoyed this book! I was actually a taekwondo student around the age of the boys in the story and the descriptions of the school, tournaments, and their teachers brought back so many warm nostalgic feelings for me. I could imagine every sentence as I read. Beautiful job and a sweet book about perseverance and mentorship. ❤️” Liz

“Fun Read With Some Great Lessons! Reviewed in the United States on May 16, 2023

The story is easy to follow and fun to read! The wonderfully descriptive story makes you feel like you know these kids in real life. My favorite parts are the lessons that are intertwined throughout the story. It was a great reminder as a parent, it’s okay to make kids brainstorm their own solutions and to also accept loses from time to time. The history lesson at the end was interested as well, I had no idea! Great read and highly recommend.” Courtney

“A must read for new parents! Reviewed in Canada on May 16, 2023

This story is a modern parable; although fun, it gently teaches several critical life lessons.
Simply written, and fast enough to keep young readers engaged, The Warriors Three could be read by a junior reader on their own or used as a bedtime reader by a parent and be enjoyed by both. While age appropriate, the author has made the characters real enough to engage with emotionally. As events unfold, you share their successes, and failures, as they strive for greatness. The history lesson provided is a bonus for those interested in the background! This is a must read for new parents. The mentality it encourages is essential for growth, happiness and success in life.” Steve

Story Catcher Publishing will be opening its door to submissions later this Fall and we can’t wait to share all those lovely stories with the world!

*****************

Hybrid published author, Donna L Martin, has been writing since she was eight years old. She is a 4th Degree Black Belt in Taekwondo by day and a ‘ninja’ writer of flash fiction, children’s picture books, chapter books, young adult novels and inspirational essays by night. Donna offers occasional BOOK NOOK REVIEWS of great children’s books and offers WRITERLY WISDOM to new and established writers. She is a member of the Society of Children’s Book Writers & Illustrators, Alliance of Independent Authors, and Children’s Book Insider. Donna loves dark chocolate, going to the beach and adding to her growing book collection.

Want to connect?

Email: www.donasdays@gmail.com

Facebook: www.facebook.com/donasdays

Twitter: www.twitter.com/donasdays

LinkedIn: Donna L Martin/Story Catcher Publishing

Goodreads: Donna L Martin

Mail: Donna L Martin

c/o Story Catcher Publishing

P O Box 27788

Knoxville, Tn 37927

BOOK NOOK REVIEWS: Never Forget Eleanor by Jason June

storycatcherpublishing

TITLE: Nevere Forget Eleanor

AUTHOR: Jason June

ILLUSTRATOR: Loren Long

PUBLISHER: Harper Collins, 2023

SYNOPSIS: 

Elijah loves spending time with his grandma Eleanor. She knows all the best words to answer tricky crossword puzzles and to tell the most beautiful stories to her family and friends.

Everyone calls her “Never Forget Eleanor” because she remembers every word she reads and person she meets. Lately though, Elijah has started to notice Grandma Eleanor forgetting little things.

So when Grandma Eleanor doesn’t show up for her Saturday story session, Elijah will need to find a way to use her favorite words and become the storyteller himself to bring her home.

WHAT I LIKED ABOUT THIS BOOK : I don’t remember much about my grandmother because she was already gone by the time I was four years old. But I do remember glimpses of her. I remember the trips to the grocery store in her old black truck. When I opened this book by author Jason June, I was immediately transported back to the days of visiting my own grandmother. The heart wrenching topic of dementia is tastefully covered and illustrator Loren Long breathes life into this touching story with beautiful artwork. A great addition to any library!

RATING: ***** 5 Stars*****

RATING SYSTEM:

1 star…probably not worth your time.

2 stars…there are some things to like but some elements could have been stronger.

3 stars…this story will appeal to some readers, but others might find it lacking something.

4 stars…strong story, nice illustrations, and should grab the attention of many readers.

5 stars…superbly written story, stellar illustrations, a must addition to any book lovers’ collection!

************

What do books and a martial arts tournament have in common? For Alex, Billy, and Nathan…A LOT! Based loosely on a true story, follow these three friends as they work to raise enough money to enter their school’s tournament. Who will win, who will lose, and who will learn a valuable lesson? Read THE WARRIORS THREE to find out! 

Fourth Degree Black Belt and award-winning children’s author, Donna L Martin, creates a sports adventure story for any boy or girl who has ever struggled with self-confidence or wanting to give up on their dreams of winning at something.

Hybrid published author, Donna L Martin, has been writing since she was eight years old. She is a 4th Degree Black Belt in Taekwondo by day and a ‘ninja’ writer of flash fiction, children’s picture books, chapter books, young adult novels and inspirational essays by night. Donna offers occasional BOOK NOOK REVIEWS of great children’s books and offers WRITERLY WISDOM to new and established writers. She is a member of the Society of Children’s Book Writers & Illustrators, Alliance of Independent Authors, and Children’s Book Insider. Donna loves dark chocolate, going to the beach and adding to her growing book collection.

Want to connect?

Email: www.donasdays@gmail.com

Facebook: www.facebook.com/donasdays

Twitter: www.twitter.com/donasdays

LinkedIn: Donna L Martin/Story Catcher Publishing

Goodreads: Donna L Martin

Mail: Donna L Martin

c/o Story Catcher Publishing

P O Box 27788

Knoxville, Tn 37927

BOOK NOOK REVIEWS: That Stinks! by Alan Katz

storycatcherpublishing

TITLE: That Stinks!

AUTHOR: Alan Katz

ILLUSTRATOR: Stephen Gilpin

PUBLISHER: Simon & Schuster, 2016

SYNOPSIS: 

When the teacher says it’s too rainy to go outside for recess and the kids must stay inside for show and tell, she gets an unexpected reaction: “That stinks!” exclaims Jimmy. The class gasps—but then it turns out Jimmy has brought a skunk for show and tell! “Aw, nuts!” says Susie. She’s brought pecans, almonds, and walnuts. Yum! 

WHAT I LIKED ABOUT THIS BOOK : I must confess that there are times when I prejudge a story by its cover. I think a lot of people will do that sometimes. I did this with author Alan Katz’ picture book, THAT STINKS! I was expecting a borderline raunchy look at maybe the potty mouths of school yard children.

I couldn’t have been more wrong!

This funny book about show and tell will get the kiddies giggling over stinky pet skunks and smelly Linburger cheese. Illustrator Stephen Gilpin jumped in with both feet and created artwork worthy of this engaging storyline. A great addition to any library!

RATING: ***** 5 Stars*****

RATING SYSTEM:

1 star…probably not worth your time.

2 stars…there are some things to like but some elements could have been stronger.

3 stars…this story will appeal to some readers, but others might find it lacking something.

4 stars…strong story, nice illustrations, and should grab the attention of many readers.

5 stars…superbly written story, stellar illustrations, a must addition to any book lovers’ collection!

************

What do books and a martial arts tournament have in common? For Alex, Billy, and Nathan…A LOT! Based loosely on a true story, follow these three friends as they work to raise enough money to enter their school’s tournament. Who will win, who will lose, and who will learn a valuable lesson? Read THE WARRIORS THREE to find out! 

Fourth Degree Black Belt and award-winning children’s author, Donna L Martin, creates a sports adventure story for any boy or girl who has ever struggled with self-confidence or wanting to give up on their dreams of winning at something.

Hybrid published author, Donna L Martin, has been writing since she was eight years old. She is a 4th Degree Black Belt in Taekwondo by day and a ‘ninja’ writer of flash fiction, children’s picture books, chapter books, young adult novels and inspirational essays by night. Donna offers occasional BOOK NOOK REVIEWS of great children’s books and offers WRITERLY WISDOM to new and established writers. She is a member of the Society of Children’s Book Writers & Illustrators, Alliance of Independent Authors, and Children’s Book Insider. Donna loves dark chocolate, going to the beach and adding to her growing book collection.

Want to connect?

Email: www.donasdays@gmail.com

Facebook: www.facebook.com/donasdays

Twitter: www.twitter.com/donasdays

LinkedIn: Donna L Martin/Story Catcher Publishing

Goodreads: Donna L Martin

Mail: Donna L Martin

c/o Story Catcher Publishing

P O Box 27788

Knoxville, Tn 37927

Story Catcher Publishing Expansion: To “AI” or not “AI”? That is the question!

storycatcherpublishing

No matter where you look these days, you will find debates hot and heavy on whether or not to use artificial intelligence to boost a writer’s creativity. Everyone has an opinion…some in favor of computer programs to generate stories that simply needs a name attached to it…and others vehemently opposed to any source other than stories coming straight from the writer’s imagination.

So, which way is best? The tried and true of old school? Or boldly stepping into a new frontier where writer and AI work hand in hand to create stories for the next generation to discover?

If artificial intelligence programs had been available fifty years ago when I first started writing stories, I might have been tempted to lean toward a little bit of helpful “assistance” in completing my stories. But at what cost? I might have ended up with a decent story, but would have missed out on the opportunity to grow as a writer through trial and error.

As a Certified Taekwondo Instructor, I could either choose to teach my students the stepping-stone curriculum which eventually leads to Black Belt, or I can simply hand them that black belt and let them out into the community with the false sense of confidence that may not protect them from the harshness of the REAL world.

When Story Catcher Publishing opens up for submissions in the Fall, we will endeavor to make sure only the very best stories are shared with the world. We don’t believe that will include any stories created with the help of artificial intelligence. The entire team will be working hard to support our authors and it’s only fair our authors work as hard as we do!

But for those of you who are considering using AI to supplement your writing, here are a few articles you might want to read:

The 7 Best AI Story Writer Tools in 2023
5 Best AI Story Generator Tools To Write Fiction Fast 2022
Artificial intelligence for writing: 10 helpful AI uses

************

What do books and a martial arts tournament have in common? For Alex, Billy, and Nathan…A LOT! Based loosely on a true story, follow these three friends as they work to raise enough money to enter their school’s tournament. Who will win, who will lose, and who will learn a valuable lesson? Read THE WARRIORS THREE to find out! 

Fourth Degree Black Belt and award-winning children’s author, Donna L Martin, creates a sports adventure story for any boy or girl who has ever struggled with self-confidence or wanting to give up on their dreams of winning at something.

Hybrid published author, Donna L Martin, has been writing since she was eight years old. She is a 4th Degree Black Belt in Taekwondo by day and a ‘ninja’ writer of flash fiction, children’s picture books, chapter books, young adult novels and inspirational essays by night. Donna offers occasional BOOK NOOK REVIEWS of great children’s books and offers WRITERLY WISDOM to new and established writers. She is a member of the Society of Children’s Book Writers & Illustrators, Alliance of Independent Authors, and Children’s Book Insider. Donna loves dark chocolate, going to the beach and adding to her growing book collection.

Want to connect?

Email: www.donasdays@gmail.com

Facebook: www.facebook.com/donasdays

Twitter: www.twitter.com/donasdays

LinkedIn: Donna L Martin/Story Catcher Publishing

Goodreads: Donna L Martin

Mail: Donna L Martin

c/o Story Catcher Publishing

P O Box 27788

Knoxville, Tn 37927

BOOK NOOK REVIEWS: The Treasure Box by Dave J Keane

storycatcherpublishing

TITLE: The Treasure Box

AUTHOR: Dave J Keane

ILLUSTRATOR: Rahele Jomepour Bell

PUBLISHER: G. P. Putnam’s Sons, 2022

SYNOPSIS: 

Searching for treasures with her grandpa is this young girl’s favorite thing to do. Every week they examine the items in her secret box and go on walks to find more—a broken robin’s egg, rusty spring, even a snakeskin that makes Grandpa squirm and make funny faces.
 
But then Grandpa is too sick to come. She leaves him a few treasures in the hospital, but when he dies, she can’t bring herself to even open the treasure box.
 
When Grammy brings her some treasures Grandpa wanted her to have, they open the box together and continue the tradition, showing that memories of time together are the greatest treasures of all.

WHAT I LIKED ABOUT THIS BOOK : Such a poignant, sweet story surrounded by delicious illustrations to engage all your senses. A little girl has a secret treasure box she shares only with her grandfather. A special bond is formed when they go treasure hunting together. But what happens when Grandfather is no longer around? It might be time to share those treasures with someone else. A lovely addition to any library!

RATING: ***** 5 Stars*****

RATING SYSTEM

1 star…probably not worth your time.

2 stars…there are some things to like but some elements could have been stronger.

3 stars…this story will appeal to some readers, but others might find it lacking something.

4 stars…strong story, nice illustrations, and should grab the attention of many readers.

5 stars…superbly written story, stellar illustrations, a must addition to any book lovers’ collection!

************

What do books and a martial arts tournament have in common? For Alex, Billy, and Nathan…A LOT! Based loosely on a true story, follow these three friends as they work to raise enough money to enter their school’s tournament. Who will win, who will lose, and who will learn a valuable lesson? Read THE WARRIORS THREE to find out! 

Fourth Degree Black Belt and award-winning children’s author, Donna L Martin, creates a sports adventure story for any boy or girl who has ever struggled with self-confidence or wanting to give up on their dreams of winning at something.

Hybrid published author, Donna L Martin, has been writing since she was eight years old. She is a 4th Degree Black Belt in Taekwondo by day and a ‘ninja’ writer of flash fiction, children’s picture books, chapter books, young adult novels and inspirational essays by night. Donna offers occasional BOOK NOOK REVIEWS of great children’s books and offers WRITERLY WISDOM to new and established writers. She is a member of the Society of Children’s Book Writers & Illustrators, Alliance of Independent Authors, and Children’s Book Insider. Donna loves dark chocolate, going to the beach and adding to her growing book collection.

Want to connect?

Email: www.donasdays@gmail.com

Facebook: www.facebook.com/donasdays

Twitter: www.twitter.com/donasdays

LinkedIn: Donna L Martin/Story Catcher Publishing

Goodreads: Donna L Martin

Mail: Donna L Martin

c/o Story Catcher Publishing

P O Box 27788

Knoxville, Tn 37927

BOOK NOOK REVIEWS: A Cape! by Marty Kelley

storycatcherpublishing

TITLE: A Cape!

AUTHOR/ILLUSTRATOR:  Marty Kelley

PUBLISHER: Sleeping Bear Press, 2021

SYNOPSIS: 

When a boy finds a cape (!!!) he knows it must mean he has a superpower, everyone with a cape has one. But dad is far too distracted to play, until the boy discovers he does have a superpower–a super powerful imagination!–far too powerful for dad to resist. This is a silly celebration of childhood, imagination, and the power of play.

WHAT I LIKED ABOUT THIS BOOK : The pure joy on that young man’s face called out to me from across the room when I walked into my local public library. I especially love that most of Mr. Kelley’s picture book is created in black & white, which accentuates the action between the main character and his father. Take one energetic kid with a wild imagination and one steadfast dad focusing on the more serious side of life, and you have a recipe for a fun-filled afternoon with a surprising ending. A great addition to any library!

RATING: ***** 5 Stars*****

RATING SYSTEM

1 star…probably not worth your time.

2 stars…there are some things to like but some elements could have been stronger.

3 stars…this story will appeal to some readers, but others might find it lacking something.

4 stars…strong story, nice illustrations, and should grab the attention of many readers.

5 stars…superbly written story, stellar illustrations, a must addition to any book lovers’ collection!

************

What do books and a martial arts tournament have in common? For Alex, Billy, and Nathan…A LOT! Based loosely on a true story, follow these three friends as they work to raise enough money to enter their school’s tournament. Who will win, who will lose, and who will learn a valuable lesson? Read THE WARRIORS THREE to find out! 

Fourth Degree Black Belt and award-winning children’s author, Donna L Martin, creates a sports adventure story for any boy or girl who has ever struggled with self-confidence or wanting to give up on their dreams of winning at something.

Hybrid published author, Donna L Martin, has been writing since she was eight years old. She is a 4th Degree Black Belt in Taekwondo by day and a ‘ninja’ writer of flash fiction, children’s picture books, chapter books, young adult novels and inspirational essays by night. Donna offers occasional BOOK NOOK REVIEWS of great children’s books and offers WRITERLY WISDOM to new and established writers. She is a member of the Society of Children’s Book Writers & Illustrators, Alliance of Independent Authors, and Children’s Book Insider. Donna loves dark chocolate, going to the beach and adding to her growing book collection.

Want to connect?

Email: www.donasdays@gmail.com

Facebook: www.facebook.com/donasdays

Twitter: www.twitter.com/donasdays

LinkedIn: Donna L Martin/Story Catcher Publishing

Goodreads: Donna L Martin

Mail: Donna L Martin

c/o Story Catcher Publishing

P O Box 27788

Knoxville, Tn 37927

Story Catcher Publishing Expansion: Author Events and Latest Releases

storycatcherpublishing

Whether traditionally published, indie published, or even published by a vanity press, book marketing and promoting should be high on any author’s list of priorities. Sales can’t happen without people knowing about your latest creation.

In our area every Spring, one of the largest gatherings in the south happens as a way of celebrating the written word. On May 20th, 2023, Knoxville, Tn will hold its annual Children’s Festival of Reading at World’s Fair Park. With up to 15,000 families attending each year, this is one of the best opportunities for authors to promote their books.

But what if you don’t have any books to sell or maybe just one?

Don’t let that stop you. Be creative!

For the first five or six years I had a booth at the festival, I was a pre-published author. I spent those early years networking and making friends with various authors all over the globe. When festival time came, I reached out to my friends and THEIR signed books began to pour in! I did a series of giveaways using those signed books and created an email list from the people who entered the giveaways. All my friends also included plenty of swag so people visiting my booth was able to walk away with freebies galore!

This year, I’m doing something a little different. I’ve invited another local author to hang out with me at the Story Catcher Publishing booth where they will get the chance to promote their own brand. I wanted to help showcase an author writing in a different genre than what Story Catcher Publishing releases and I found the perfect partner in Susan Weaver Jones. Here’s more about Susan…

Susan Weaver Jones, a local author and retired elementary educator, resides in Farragut, Tennessee. She has taught students in kindergarten through eighth grade in Florida, as well as Tennessee.  In addition, she has written a total of six leveled books for beginning readers in Hameray Publishing Company’s Kaleidoscope Collection and their Zoozoo Animal World Collection (www.hameraypublishing.com).  Look for her books on Hameray’s website:  We Recycle, Service Dogs, Hide and Seek, Spider Monkey, Toucan, and Yak.  All six titles are available in English and Spanish.

This is Susan’s first time participating at the festival and I’m sure she will have a blast!

Story Catcher Publishing will also be showcasing our entire line of released titles, including our picture books, our award-winning historical fiction chapter books, our young adult fantasy novel, our memoir writing journal, and our latest release…THE WARRIORS THREE (a sport adventure chapter book)…coming just in time for the festival!

Mark your calendar, tell your friends, and hop on down to our booth at the Children’s Festival of Reading on Saturday, 5/20, from 10 am until 3 pm. The event is free and there are plenty of fun for everyone!!

And coming this fall, Story Catcher Publishing will open it’s doors to author submissions. We are a hybrid publisher offering services and support to authors everywhere. And as our mascot, Finnigan, says, “Catching Great Stories…Together!”

************

Hybrid published author, Donna L Martin, has been writing since she was eight years old. She is a 4th Degree Black Belt in Taekwondo by day and a ‘ninja’ writer of flash fiction, children’s picture books, chapter books, young adult novels and inspirational essays by night. Donna offers occasional BOOK NOOK REVIEWS of great children’s books and offers WRITERLY WISDOM to new and established writers. She is a member of the Society of Children’s Book Writers & Illustrators, Alliance of Independent Authors, and Children’s Book Insider. Donna loves dark chocolate, going to the beach and adding to her growing book collection.

Want to connect?

Email: www.donasdays@gmail.com

Facebook: www.facebook.com/donasdays

Twitter: www.twitter.com/donasdays

LinkedIn: Donna L Martin/Story Catcher Publishing

Goodreads: Donna L Martin

Mail: Donna L Martin

c/o Story Catcher Publishing

P O Box 27788

Knoxville, Tn 37927

BOOK NOOK REVIEWS: They Say Blue by Jillian Tamaki

storycatcherpublishing

TITLE: They Say Blue

AUTHOR/ILLUSTRATOR:  Jillian Tamaki

PUBLISHER: Abrams Books For Young Readers, 2018

SYNOPSIS: 

In captivating paintings full of movement and transformation, Tamaki follows a young girl through a year or a day as she examines the colors in the world around her. Egg yolks are sunny orange as expected, yet water cupped in her hands isn’t blue like they say. But maybe a blue whale is blue. She doesn’t know, she hasn’t seen one. Playful and philosophical, They Say Blue is a book about color as well as perspective, about the things we can see and the things we can only wonder at.

WHAT I LIKED ABOUT THIS BOOK : The first thing I noticed when I opened Ms. Tamaki’s book was the vibrant illustrations. Her artwork comes alive as it dips and swirls on each page…inviting young readers to join in her main character’s celebration dance of the world around her. Imaginations run wild and we are witnesses to Nature’s wonderful palette. A lovely addition to any library!

RATING: ****4 Stars****

RATING SYSTEM

1 star…probably not worth your time.

2 stars…there are some things to like but some elements could have been stronger.

3 stars…this story will appeal to some readers, but others might find it lacking something.

4 stars…strong story, nice illustrations, and should grab the attention of many readers.

5 stars…superbly written story, stellar illustrations, a must addition to any book lovers’ collection!

************

What do books and a martial arts tournament have in common? For Alex, Billy, and Nathan…A LOT! Based loosely on a true story, follow these three friends as they work to raise enough money to enter their school’s tournament. Who will win, who will lose, and who will learn a valuable lesson? Read THE WARRIORS THREE to find out! 

Fourth Degree Black Belt and award-winning children’s author, Donna L Martin, creates a sports adventure story for any boy or girl who has ever struggled with self-confidence or wanting to give up on their dreams of winning at something.

Hybrid published author, Donna L Martin, has been writing since she was eight years old. She is a 4th Degree Black Belt in Taekwondo by day and a ‘ninja’ writer of flash fiction, children’s picture books, chapter books, young adult novels and inspirational essays by night. Donna offers occasional BOOK NOOK REVIEWS of great children’s books and offers WRITERLY WISDOM to new and established writers. She is a member of the Society of Children’s Book Writers & Illustrators, Alliance of Independent Authors, and Children’s Book Insider. Donna loves dark chocolate, going to the beach and adding to her growing book collection.

Want to connect?

Email: www.donasdays@gmail.com

Facebook: www.facebook.com/donasdays

Twitter: www.twitter.com/donasdays

LinkedIn: Donna L Martin/Story Catcher Publishing

Goodreads: Donna L Martin

Mail: Donna L Martin

c/o Story Catcher Publishing

P O Box 27788

Knoxville, Tn 37927

BOOK NOOK REVIEWS: Freedom Summer by Deborah Wiles

storycatcherpublishing

TITLE: Freedom Summer

AUTHOR: Deborah Wiles

Illustrator: Jerome Lagarrigue

PUBLISHER: Atheneum Books For Young Readers, 2001

SYNOPSIS: 

John Henry swims better than anyone I know.
He crawls like a catfish,
blows bubbles like a swamp monster,
but he doesn’t swim in the town pool with me.
He’s not allowed.

Joe and John Henry are a lot alike. They both like shooting marbles, they both want to be firemen, and they both love to swim. But there’s one important way they’re different: Joe is white and John Henry is black, and in the South in 1964, that means John Henry isn’t allowed to do everything his best friend is. Then a law is passed that forbids segregation and opens the town pool to everyone. Joe and John Henry are so excited they race each other there…only to discover that it takes more than a new law to change people’s hearts.

WHAT I LIKED ABOUT THIS BOOK : Despite being born and raised in the south where there always seems to be a division between races, I connected very strongly with Ms. Wiles’ story. I may not come from color, but I was raised deeply in poverty and felt society’s judgement of me because of my situation. There are no color barriers between Joe and John Henry. Just two free-spirited children trying to enjoy a summer together. When they finally get a chance to both enjoy the public pool, the stark reality of living in the adults’ world teach them a lesson they will not soon forget. Author, Deborah Wiles, and illustrator, Jerome Lagarrigue, team up to portray an award-winning story of racial division and an enduring friendship in the south during the 1960’s. A touching addition to any library!

RATING: *****5 Stars*****

RATING SYSTEM

1 star…probably not worth your time.

2 stars…there are some things to like but some elements could have been stronger.

3 stars…this story will appeal to some readers, but others might find it lacking something.

4 stars…strong story, nice illustrations, and should grab the attention of many readers.

5 stars…superbly written story, stellar illustrations, a must addition to any book lovers’ collection!

************

What do books and a martial arts tournament have in common? For Alex, Billy, and Nathan…A LOT! Based loosely on a true story, follow these three friends as they work to raise enough money to enter their school’s tournament. Who will win, who will lose, and who will learn a valuable lesson? Read THE WARRIORS THREE to find out! 

Fourth Degree Black Belt and award-winning children’s author, Donna L Martin, creates a sports adventure story for any boy or girl who has ever struggled with self-confidence or wanting to give up on their dreams of winning at something.

Hybrid published author, Donna L Martin, has been writing since she was eight years old. She is a 4th Degree Black Belt in Taekwondo by day and a ‘ninja’ writer of flash fiction, children’s picture books, chapter books, young adult novels and inspirational essays by night. Donna offers occasional BOOK NOOK REVIEWS of great children’s books and offers WRITERLY WISDOM to new and established writers. She is a member of the Society of Children’s Book Writers & Illustrators, Alliance of Independent Authors, and Children’s Book Insider. Donna loves dark chocolate, going to the beach and adding to her growing book collection.

Want to connect?

Email: www.donasdays@gmail.com

Facebook: www.facebook.com/donasdays

Twitter: www.twitter.com/donasdays

LinkedIn: Donna L Martin/Story Catcher Publishing

Goodreads: Donna L Martin

Mail: Donna L Martin

c/o Story Catcher Publishing

P O Box 27788

Knoxville, Tn 37927