Cynthia's Attic

Madison's Message: Help Close Puppy Mills!

2012-01-28T14:41:00.000-05:00

Author, Madison Cassel-Hughes and Illustrator, Patrick Hendrickson

A new book by Madison Cassel-Hughes, My Summer is the result of Madison's mother, Christine, and the entire family, making the unselfish decision to rescue thirty dogs from a puppy mill in West Georgia. The dogs were set to be euthanized because the owner was losing her lease, so mom, Christine Cassel loaded the kids in the van and drove to the location to "pick three because we can't save all thirty." Famous last words! After a sleepless night, they drove back and got the rest the next day.

The result of her unusual summer adventure led Madison to write a book in order to educate every one, especially kids her own age, about the horrendous conditions under which puppy mill dogs live. Some, sadly, never have the chance to feel grass under their feet.

Dogs filled every seat, floor and corner of the van!

I thought you should know more about Madison, her book, and the compassion and spirit that compels her to help educate others about the awful conditions in puppy mills.

CA: I'm So proud of you and your book, Madison! What inspired you to write, My Summer, about your experience rescuing dogs from a puppy mill?

Madison: I wanted to teach kids about puppymills and pets stores so they would understand how sad it is for animals to live in cages.

CA: That's a very ambitious project, Madison. What was the most difficult part of writing your book?

Madison: I Enjoyed everything about writing the book. I was very excited!

CA: Your family rescued one of the puppy mill dogs. Was this a family decision, or did you choose her?

Madison: The women that owned the puppymill was thanking us for saving them and gave us this beautiful little white dog. We were in love! And named her Summer!

CA: Would you like to write more books about pet rescues?

Madison: Yes, I would love to write a book about Bella a beautiful pit lab mix saved off the side of the road. She was cut up on the face and holes in her chest. Now she has a great life...all because my mom said yes. And a book on Nicholas the deaf American bulldog that we drove all the way to Florida to save from the pound.

Nicholas lounging in his new home

Lucy in her new home & Dad's arms

I know, first hand, how devoted Madison's mom is to pet rescues since she's the one who found our sweet Lucy!

CA: So, Madison, now that you're an author, do your friends treat you differently?

Madison: No my friends think it is cool and were very excited.

CA: Since you are working to save dogs, have you ever thought about working with animals - maybe becoming a veterinarian?

Madison: No, I would like to become a archeologist.

And, I'm sure you'll accomplish whatever you set out to do, Madison! Thanks, and keep up the good work!

Madison and Summer

Copies of My Summer are being donated to local libraries with proceeds for purchased books going to animal rescue groups in the West Georgia area. To find out more about purchasing a book email: mysummerbook@gmail.com

And, please remember: Don't Shop! Adopt!

There's a Bad Kitty In Cynthia's Attic!

2012-01-14T11:31:00.000-05:00

Kitty is not happy when she's told that her favorite foods are all gone and all that's left are Asparagus, Beets, Cauliflower, Dill...and 22 other equally unappealing vegetables. So she: Ate my homework, Bit grandma, Clawed the curtains, Damaged the dishes, and so on, through Z. Only when tastier things arrive (An Assortment of Anchovies, Buffalo Burritos, Chicken Cheesecake...) does she Apologize to Grandma.

My Review: One of the most delightful picture books I've read! Nick Bruel's Bad Kitty takes the naughty feline from icky vegetable retaliation to apologizing for her bad behavior...when she discovers her favorite foods are, once again, stocked in the house. This senior citizen laughed out loud at the story and illustrations such as, Moose Ala Mode, Hippo Hamburgers and Uncle Murray...huh? (You have to read the book) Even my equally senior husband loved it!

Although I highly recommend the satisfying experience of reading to your kids and grandkids, I suggest you listen, at least once, to the Vanessa Williams reading on CD. Her interpretation adds seamlessly to this hilarious, fantastically illustrated book. Can't wait to read more Bad Kitty adventures, especially Bad Kitty VS. Uncle Murray!

About Nick Bruel:

NICK BRUEL is the author and illustrator of, among other books, BAD KITTY, POOR PUPPY, BAD KITTY GETS A BATH, HAPPY BIRTHDAY, BAD KITTY and BAD KITTY VS. UNCLE MURRAY. A former bookseller, Nick used his quirky sense of humor and cartooning skills to get out from behind the bookstore counter and onto the shelves. But Nick was a born writer. When he was in first grade, he loved nothing more than to write stories and make drawings to go along with them, which he still does to this day.

Nick claims that, if he were to be compared to any of his characters, he would definitely be “Strange Kitty” from HAPPY BIRTHDAY, BAD KITTY. According to Nick, “I was definitely the cat who would go to a birthday party and spend the entire time sitting in the corner reading comic books, rather than participate in all the pussycat games.”

Nick lives with his wife Carina, daughter Isabel, and cat Esmerelda in Tarrytown, New York. During his down time, he collects PEZ dispensers and grows tomatoes in the backyard.

Nick Bruel's Website! Or Bad Kitty Website for books, games, and fun!

Purchase Bad Kitty on Amazon You'll be glad you did!

Book and CD available January 17th
For more information contact Esther Bochner/Senior Publicist, Macmillan audio, Macmillan Young Listeners - esther.bochner@macmillan.com

How Two People Consumed a 21-lb Turkey In 4 Days!

2011-11-28T00:00:00.000-05:00

Day 1. Thanksgiving (duh)

Turkey dinner with all the fixin's around 2:00 PM topped off withlemon meringue pie!

Turkey sandwiches around 7:00PM (Yummy!!) Nature's sleeping pill!

Day 2.

Turkey sandwiches with mayo, lettuce, and cranberry sauce for lunch (still tasty!)

Turkey dinner with all the fixin's (round 2) plus pie, ofcourse! (Next-day leftovers are even better, don't you think?)

Day 3.

Turkey salad sandwiches for lunch. (Lovin' me some turkeysalad!)

Turkey/romaine chef salad for dinner (Finally, something green that isn't soaked in Campbell's mushroom soup and French's onions!) and, oh yeah…pie.

Day 4.

Turkey salad sandwiches for lunch (Not lovin' the turkey salad so much and there's still half a bowl).

Turkey pot pie for dinner and the last of the lemon meringue. (sigh)

Note: There might have been Day 5 except that on day 2 I was smartenough to vacuum seal a couple bags of turkey pieces for some time in May, (theearliest possible date I figure we'll be able to look at turkey, again, withoutgagging).

Btw, our furry daughter requested a 22-pounder next year because Lucy and "friends" didn't get their share.

*sigh*

Brave Irene - William Steig, Narration by Meryl Streep

2011-11-21T15:29:00.001-05:00

"An extroadinarily eloquent story about love andcourage"

- The New Yorker

The Duchess eagerly awaits the delivery of her ball gown by Irene'smother, Mrs. Bobbin, but the seamstress is sick in bed and can't possiblydeliver the gown in time.

Enter Brave Irene! Through a ferocioussnowstorm and deliberately treacherous winds, Irene sets out to save the dayfor her dear mother (who always smells like fresh-baked bread to Irene).

Most would turn back, too afraid to face such a frightening journey, butIrene plods on with courage and ingenuity.

Magnificentlyillustrated and written by William Steig, Brave Irene evenkept this senior citizen engaged throughout the story.

Narrated by the iconic Meryl Streep, this Book & CD Setcharms with vivid illustrations, an exciting storyline, and the perfect voiceto bring it all together. Also including a read-along track, Brave Ireneis the kind of book that children will grow up listening to, and then excitedlyread to themselves!

Ages 4 & up

WilliamSteig(1907-2003)published his first children's book, Roland the Minstrel Pig, in 1968, andreceived the Caldecott Medal for Sylvester and the Magic Pebble(978-1416902065) in 1970. His works also include The Amazing Bone, a CaldecottHonor Book, and Abel's Island and Doctor De Soto, both Newbery Honor Books.

Book & CD set on Amazon

Cynthia's Attic 'Tween Series for Christmas!

Amazon

Kindle

B & N Book Nook

OmniLit

Smashwords

Are you Rich and Famous??

2011-11-03T12:55:00.000-04:00

Two questions asked during an author visit to a local elementary school:

Are you rich?

Are you famous?

Let's see...I came home the other day from speaking to a fabulous group of 4th and 5th graders - at one of my favorite schools, Villa Rica Elementary - cleaned the house and fixed (translation: warmed up leftovers) dinner.

Today I'm doing laundry for what seems like our entire neighborhood (there's just the two of us!), and trying to ignore pleading looks from my canine daughter that "walkie time" is waaay overdue.

If you're planning a writing career, I suppose my response to those two questions would be, "Don't quit your day job! In fact, you might want to add a couple additional jobs!"

That said, I wouldn't give up what I do for anything...except a winning lottery ticket.

Media Specialist - Candace Williams, Villa Rica, Elementary

Coming soon! Cynthia's Attic: Legend of Lupin Woods (Book Five)

Mary Cunningham Books

A Spooky Read For Halloween!

2011-10-31T08:05:00.000-04:00

"11-year-old Jake McMillen wants, more than anything in the world, to play varsity basketball for the Panthers, just like his late, Grandpa Max. One big problem. While Jake inherits his grandfather's love for the game, the McMillen height passed him by.

Not only that, "old people," like his grandmother, take up too much of his precious practice time. He knows she's sick, but being dragged along to his her steamy apartment cuts into the afternoon pick-up game at the Island basketball court.

After getting totally humiliated during the game by star player, Quinn Parker, Jake gets a ghostly message that changes his outlook toward his grandmother, and inspires him to pursue his dreams."

Download today on Kindle or OmniLit
Mary Cunningham Books

Cynthia's Attic: From the Earth To The Moon

2011-10-28T12:28:00.001-04:00

Cynthia's Attic series is about a dynamic time-traveling duo, Cynthia and Augusta Lee (Gus). As they prepare for their final adventure, I couldn't help thinking back to one of my favorite authors, Jules Verne. His fantasy/fiction ideas have become more real as time goes by. Who knows? Maybe time-travel will be a reality one day!

Jules Verne's novels are still read and studied today. But I've always been interested in the fact that his stories are prophetic in describing modern times. Paris in the 20th Century is an often cited example of this describing air conditioning, automobiles, electricity, television, even the Internet!

Another example is From the Earth to the Moon, which, apart from using a space gun instead of a rocket, is very similar to the Apollo Program, as three astronauts are launched from the Florida peninsula and recovered through a splash landing. In the book, the spacecraft is launched from "Tampa Town." Although Tampa isn't the NASA launch site, Tampa, Florida is approximately 130 miles from Cape Canaveral.

In other works, Verne predicted the inventions of helicopters, submarines, projectors, jukeboxes, and other later devices.

He also predicted the existence of underwater hydrothermal vents that were not discovered until years after he wrote about them.

In the Mysterious Island Verne predicts the development of Hydrogen engines. A group of castaways discuss what will happen when the world's coal reserves are used up, when one of them exclaims, "Water [will replace coal]. Water broken down into its component elements by electricity. . . the hydrogen and oxygen of which it is constituted will be used to furnish an inexhaustible source of heat and light. One day, the holds of steamships and the tenders of locomotives will be filled with those two compressed gases, powering their engines with an incalculable calorific force."

Wish he'd predicted the use of other renewable energies like solar power and wind power to replace our dependence on oil! Hmmm...maybe he did.

To read more about this fascinating author, visit Jules Verne Wikipedia page.

Coming Spring 2012 - Cynthia's Attic: Legend of Lupin Woods!

For more Cynthia's Attic Books - Mary Cunningham Books

Adopt A Shelter Dog Month - A Tale of Two Shelter Dogs

2011-10-04T10:20:00.003-04:00

It's been almost three years since we lost our sweet "Molly-Girl." The 20-lb, chocolate brown mix adopted us in 1995 after her two-week "vacation" at the Miami Animal Shelter. We were put through hoops before the dedicated shelter workers let us take her home to Fort Myers, but the thirteen years we had with Molly were the best.

Our hearts broke when we lost her. As many of you know, having the courage to euthanize a beloved pet is probably the most difficult decision we animal lovers face. I stayed with Molly in the vet's office until the end. My husband could not. Just a difference between the two of us. I wanted to be there to hold her when she slipped away. Her "dad" had to wait outside. I didn't blame him because, after all, he was the one, those many years ago, who comforted the anxious, three-year-old terrier-mix on the long trip across Alligator Alley to her new home. He simply couldn't bear the pain of letting her go. I was relieved by his decision because that meant I could focus on Molly and not have to worry about any other dynamic in that room except the bond she and I shared.

We left the clinic that day vowing it would be a long, long time before we could again face the pain of watching another little buddy grow ill and slip away.

The first anniversary of her death came and went. The second anniversary passed, but a strange thing happened that next spring. I started researching pet rescue sites on the Internet, clicking on picture after picture of small dogs that needed a forever home. I e-mailed a friend who was devoted to dog rescues and fostering. I gave her an idea what we were looking for figuring it would take months to pair us with a new furry family member. Was I ever wrong!

A couple of days had passed when I opened up an e-mail saying I'd been tagged with a link to a photo on Facebook. I clicked open the picture and called my husband into my office. "What about this one?" My heart pounded at the sight of the little black and white fur ball. "Let's get her," he announced. And, he wasn't kidding. I had been first to consider the idea of another dog. He was still enjoying the freedom that being "pet-less" provided. Still, when I mentioned the idea, he had been on board as long as we took our time, did our research and "didn't rush into anything."

Two days?? That's not rushing into anything? I was a little shocked by his instant passion for a dog we knew nothing about, but when he saw Lucy's picture, it was love at first sight. For once, I was the pragmatic one; refusing to allow myself to love that little girl until I had her in my arms.

The next day was rough. First we had her, then we didn't because she had to be spayed. Then we had her again when we signed an oath in blood and swore on our mothers' graves to have her spayed here in Georgia. Then we didn't because there was no way to get her from South Florida to our home.

Enter our pet angels. Through karma, good luck, coincidence, whatever...1 Lucky Dog Rescue (the fantastic place who took Lucy in after she was abandoned) discovered that one of their contacts was coming to Atlanta that weekend and he'd be happy to transport Lucy straight to our front door. The stars aligned, and she was in my arms Saturday morning, less than 36 hours after we'd seen her picture.

I suppose this post is more cathartic than entertaining, but sometimes we just have to "get it out." I'm not dreading the third anniversary of Molly's death so much. Not because I don't still miss her, terribly, but, I think she'd approve of our decision to save another South Florida dog. Lucy makes us laugh every day. Even the day she decided that Dad wouldn't miss just one bite off his pizza slice. Oh, she put on an academy award-winning innocent performance...except for the glob of pizza sauce on the end of her nose.

Yes, Molly would definitely approve of her little sister.

October is Adopt A Dog Month!

Don't Shop - Adopt!

10 compelling reasons to adopt a shelter dog from Dogster, For the Love of Dog Blog

Talk Like A Pirate Day!

2011-09-19T00:00:00.000-04:00

AARRRGHH! The day snuck up on me! Captain Buzzard Jack LaBuse, herrre, mateys!

In honor of me earlier adventures with those scurrvy dogs, Cynthia and Gus in Curse of the Bayou, I'm invitin' all ye mateys to send in yer favorite pirate phrases. I'll be a postin' on this here blog.

And, just in case you're not sure how to Talk Like a Pirate, here are some key words ye be a'wantin' ta r'memberrr.

Ahoy! - "Yo!"
Avast! - "Check it out!"
Aye! - "Yes."
Arrr! - "That's right!" (often confused with arrrgh...)
Arrrgh! - "I'm VERY miffed."

So, weigh anchor. Hoist the mizzen. It's a terrrrrific day!

If ye be wantin' ta read more about Talk Like A Pirate Day, here ye go! Wikipedia

Settin' sights on a good Pirate Read? Jamaica Rose and Capt'n Michael MacLeod might have a book fer ya! It be called (Go figure!) The Book of Pirates! Amazon

And, in case yer hankerin' ta read about me mis-adventures, ye be a'clickin on this link to Cynthia's Attic: Curse of the Bayou!

Don't make me come after ya!

Heeeerrr's one of me treacherous scenes from Curse of the Bayou!

Capt'n Buzzard Jack

Gasp! I was soaked andstruggling for air, but there wasn't any! Coughing…that's a good sign. At least my lungs weretrying to work. Had a hugewave come over the side during the night? I nudged Cynthia with my elbow.

"Ahhhh! Where did thatwater come from?" she cried.

"So, you're finallyawake, eh?" Buzzard Jack's voice chilled the air even more. "Nicejob, Snags." The shadow of the captain fell over us, blocking out themorning sun. His helper, Snags was grinning idiotically, holding a woodenbucket. An empty wooden bucket, I might add.

I spit out the remainingdrops of water I'd ingested, and glared.

"Don't blame me,"Snags laughed. If yer mouth hadn't been hanging open like a newborn guppy, youwouldn't a choked."

I felt a confirming nudge inmy back, but Cynthia didn't laugh. Nothing was funny.

Captain Jack didn't think so,either. He leaned down until the brim of his black hat was inches from makingcontact with Cynthia's forehead. "You will tell me where to find the watch. It may be now. It may be later. But,I can assure you, the longer it takes, the more uncomfortable you willbecome." He stood up. "So, what's it going to be? I promise to untie you and your little friend,give you a good meal, some water, and send you back to land, unharmed."

Oh, sure. That'llhappen. I may only betwelve, but I wasn't born yesterday.

Neither his threats nor his"promises" had any effect on Cynthia. "I told you last night. Idon't have it."

I knew when Cynthia wastelling the truth and…she was telling the truth. Thinking back to finding thewatch in the Conners' barn, I remembered watching Cynthia put it in her pocket.What happened to it after that was a mystery. But, we'd better find out, andsoon, because the captain was now standing over me.

Mary Cunningham Books

Stanley Seagull in Cynthia's Attic!

2011-09-15T00:05:00.097-04:00

Meet a young seagull named Stanley. Follow him as he wanders far from home and tries to find his way back. Join Stanley on his journey as he learns how humans affect the balance of nature.

Stanley Seagull thinks he’s found the perfect seaside “restaurant”, a huge garbage pile. He feeds and feeds, but fails to heed his cousin, Seymor’s warning to be prepared to fly away at a moment’s notice and Stanley finds himself far away from his beloved ocean.

Stanley Seagull, written by former librarian, Cathy Mazur, delivers a heartwarming, tightly-written story for the young reader. In addition to being entertained, however, the reader will learn valuable lessons along the way; For instance, when something looks too good to be true, it probably is, pay attention when someone warns you of possible danger, and friends can be found in the most unlikely places.

Colleen Gedrich brings Stanley, his friends, and this fast-paced story to life with vivid, energetic illustrations.

Born in Scranton, Pa., Cathy Mazur is the daughter of Gary and Catherine H. Errico. She received a bachelor’s degree in Library Science from Mansfield State College in 1975, and received a Reading Specialist Certificate from the University of Scranton in 1978. Cathy was employed as an elementary school librarian for the Mid Valley School District from 1975 until her retirement in 2010, where she instituted and coordinated the RIF (Reading Is Fundamental) program for 33 years helping students to develop a love of reading outside the classroom.

She resides in Dickson City, Pa. with Frank, her husband of 31 years. They are the parents of two children, Gary, 27 and Gia, 19. Now in her retirement, she is focused on writing books for children like Stanley Seagull.

Colleen Gedrich, a lifelong resident Throop, Pa., earned a BFA in illustration from Marywood University in 2002. She is a freelance illustrator specializing in animal-themed work.

She enjoys creating her art using mostly watercolor and pastel. As a dedicated animal rights activist and full-time program coordinator for International Society for Animal Rights (ISAR), Colleen lives her dream of joining her passions for animals and art to promote a more harmonious world with a touch of beauty. Colleen has also teamed up with her very talented artist mother, Kathy Holmes Gedrich, and paints murals for children’s nurseries.

Hardcover buy link: ($16.95)

Paperback buy link: ($7.95)

Kindle buy link: ($2.99)

Nook buy link: ($4.95)

Cynthia's Attic 'Tween Series available in paperback and Ebook!

Mary Cunningham Books

Cynthia's Attic heads to Decatur Book Festival!

2011-08-31T09:19:00.003-04:00

One of my all-time favorite events, The Decatur Book Festival, is this weekend. I'll sign my 'Tween book series, Cynthia's Attic, along with humor/lifestyle favorite, WOOF: Women Only Over Fifty.

Stop by booth # 110 (near the children's stage) and say "Hi"!

Mary Cunningham Books on Amazon

Cynthia's Attic: Childhood Bullying

2011-08-23T14:38:00.000-04:00

Maggie Goes On A Diet:

This book is about a 14 year old girl who goes on a diet and is transformed from being extremely overweight and insecure to a normal sized girl who becomes the school soccer star. Through time, exercise and hard work, Maggie becomes more and more confident and develops a positive self image.

This new release creates controvery with the word Diet. Will it lead to eating disorders, or help children understand the value of eating a healthy diet and exercising? While I haven't read the book, my first impression is that parts leave good messages; eating healthy, exercise. Another message, however, leaves me cold. In order to be popular and keep friends from bullying you, get thin and participate in team sports. The fact that Maggie loses weight and plays soccer is good, but this shouldn't be the only way to have friends. I'm also troubled that, apparently, the bullies have no accountability for their hurtful actions.

Not Fat Because I Wanna Be: By LaNiyah Bailey

The path that led 6-year-old LaNiyah Bailey to become a child author began with cruel taunts. LaNiyah Bailey said she was called “fat, fat-elephant and some kids told me I looked like I was having a baby and that I walked funny.
But LaNiyah wasn’t big because she was sitting on the couch all day eating cookies or french fries.

This book is written in first person about LaNiyah's struggle with bullies, doctors, and finally understanding her body. I haven't read this book, either, but the message seems like a good one, straight from LaNiyah.

No matter which book you choose, both have valid messages that should lead every school to provide education, along with a strong, anti-bullying mandate.

Maggie Goes On A Diet - Amazon

Not Fat Because I Wanna Be - Amazon

Mary Cunningham Books

Planet Explorers Walt Disney World - Laura Schaefer

2011-08-16T13:14:00.002-04:00

Does Walt Disney World need an introduction? Probably not, but author, Laura Schaefer give us a super intro!

Planet Explorers: Walt Disney World 2011, a guide book for kids, has as many fun facts, trivia, and links as you need to create the perfect vacation to one of the most popular destinations on earth.

You’ll see inside the Magic Kingdom, Epcot, Disney’s Hollywood Studios, Animal Kingdom, the water parks, Downtown Disney, and the resorts.

She even rates the rides and attractions with symbols throughout the book:

S = Scary
D = Dark
A = Awesome: don’t miss this attraction
T = Thrilling: think roller coasters
W = Wet: you might get soaked

Looking for tips on characters? The best food? Live shows? You'll find it all. She even offers tips on keeping your wait at the most popular attractions to a minimum.

A timeline, pictures and tons of details make this book a must read before you book your next trip to Disneyland. Whether your favorite is From Spaceship Earth, The Seas with Nemo and Friends, or one of my favorites, Big Thunder Mountain, this guide has all the information you need.

Author, Laura Schaefer, got her start as a contributor to the University of Wisconsin's student paper The Daily Cardinal and went on to write regularly for The Princeton Review and Match.com.

She is the author of The Secret Ingredient (Simon & Schuster 2011), Planet Explorers Chicago (Planet Explorers Publishing 2011), Planet Explorers Walt Disney World (Planet Explorers Publishing 2011), The Teashop Girls (Simon & Schuster 2008), and Man with Farm Seeks Woman with Tractor (Thunder's Mouth Press, 2005).

Laura Schaefer on Amazon
Laura Schaefer on Smashwords

Laura Schaefer Website:

Mary Cunningham Books

Planet Explorers Chicago in Cynthia's Attic

2011-08-03T09:59:00.000-04:00

From the Brookfield Zoo, Shedd Aquarium, Adler Planetarium and the Field Museum, Planet Explorers Chicago by Laura Schaefer, brought up fond memories of my first visit to the Windy City when I was about eight years-old. I’ve never forgotten that trip to one of America’s most impressive cities, and this book reinforced those memories.

Explore the planet with this Chicago guidebook written just for kids. This 60 page ebook includes everything your 8-12 year-old needs to know about Chicago and nearby attractions, in addition to the ones listed above, the Lincoln Park Zoo and Six Flags Great America as well as notable buildings, parks and stadiums like Wrigley Field. From fun facts to history, from attraction highlights to pictures, maps, and quizzes, Planet Explorers guidebooks have it all.

But, in case you think this is simply a guide/travel book, you’ll also read facts and see pictures of some pretty notorious characters like Al Capone, John Dillinger, and even deep dish pizza! LOL!

Chicago boasts a famous resident, too. Barack Obama, our 44^th President lived there, and his hero, Abraham Lincoln, was chosen as the Republican candidate for president in the country’s first national political convention in Chicago.

Fun facts and pictures make Planet Explorers Chicago, a must-read if you’re planning a trip. Even if you’re not planning to visit, after exploring this book, you’ll swear you’ve been there.

Author, Laura Schaefer, got her start as a contributor to the University of Wisconsin's student paper The Daily Cardinal and went on to write regularly for The Princeton Review and Match.com.

Laura Schaefer on Amazon

Laura Schaefer Website:

Mary Cunningham Books

Farewell Atlantis

2011-07-21T16:04:00.001-04:00

It's been 30 years since Columbia lifted off. I barely remember the launch, although as a space buff from the time I was six-years-old, there is no doubt I was excited beyond words.

What I do remember is seeing the space shuttle touch down and being speechless watching the sight of a space craft/airplane not only orbiting the earth but returning safely.

Sadly, Columbia would not "live" to retire or make a final flight in this history-ending summer. During the 28th mission, the shuttle broke up on entry in 2003 and took 7 souls on one final journey.

Only time will tell where the next chapter in space exploration will take us.

Friendship in Cynthia's Attic

2011-07-19T09:00:00.003-04:00

Cynthia had an attic. Not just an ordinary attic. Cynthia's attic was magic.

Cynthia and I came into the world just three months apart. We grew up on the same quiet, sycamore-lined street, our friendship as close as our houses. Fifty years earlier, our grandmothers were best friends. However, we didn't realize the extent of their friendship until after our experience in Cynthia's attic. This is the story of one of our great adventures...the way I remember it.

Cynthia and I spent day after day playing in her attic, but, little did I know how much her friendship would mean decades later. We went all through school together, played with the neighborhood kids, and in high school, had slumber parties and double-dated. After graduation, we lost touch when she left for nursing school; a dream of hers from the time she could talk. Meanwhile, I got married, had a son and moved about 500 times. (Okay, maybe not that many, but a ‘nomadic’ feelings prevailed when the 9th moving van pulled up to the house!)

But, before you start feeling sorry for me, the last move has been the most rewarding because it brought me within an hour of Cynthia’s home for more than 15 years. We’d barely unpacked when I called to arrange dinner plans. I felt sorry for our husbands because Cynthia and I didn't shut up for four hours! It's like we were six-years-old again, still sitting on the floor of her attic playing with paper dolls and discovering magical treasures.

Some friends drift away and although you miss them, your life doesn't feel much different without their presence, but, Cynthia and I took up right where we left off all those years ago. I didn't realize how much I missed her until we came back into each other's lives. On a recent road trip together, we covered almost sixty years of fun, friends and family.

This brings me to one reason the series, "Cynthia's Attic," has been so satisfying to write. I've had the fun of chronicling the friendship between Cynthia and Gus (I'm point-of-view character, Gus) and honoring my lifelong friendship with Cynthia.

"This wonderfully imaginative tale will delight readers. I wish I had a magic attic!" - Laura Schaefer, author of The Teashop Girls.

…”a good old fashioned family story, with all the sci-fi perks and jigs to light the imagination of today’s young reader.”- Real Reader Reviews

Mary Cunningham Books

Amazon

Cynthia's Attic: # 5 - Excerpt

2011-07-05T13:41:00.006-04:00

1964:

A dog yapped in the distance. Molly? Is that you?

"Yow! Sam? What the heck are you doing, boy? Get off my chest!" I awoke to find my corgi-beagle-whatever dog sitting on my chest, and trust me, he was a load. "I can't breathe, Sammy. Move. A gentle shove coaxed him to the other side of the bed where he wagged furiously, panting for attention.

"Go get Mom. She'll let you out." Surely someone was up and moving around. I shaded my eyes from the sun shining full-fledged through the venetian blinds. It must be at least 9 AM. "Mom?" I yelled, "Will you let Sam out?"

No answer. Oh, yeah. She's working today. I sighed, but could never be mad at my short-legged, floppy-eared buddy waiting impatiently for me to get out of bed. I knew from experience that one slight twitch and I'd be toast. He would fly over my head, off the bed and down the stairs, expecting me to be right behind him. Oh, yeah. I knew the drill.

I shut my eyes in a vain attempt to go back to sleep when the pitiful whining began and I admitted defeat. "Okay, you miserable mongrel." I gave the top of his head a pat and hit the floor, running, but he easily beat me down the steps. I'd barely cracked open the door when he sprinted into the fenced back yard; a fence my dad was forced to build because of Sam's escapades around town. Wish I had a doughnut for all the phone calls we'd gotten from business owners.

"This is Drummad's Auto Parts. Your dog is guarding our front entrance and we haven't had a customer in more than an hour. Come over and get him or I'm calling the pound!"

Or, Flora’s Bakery. "Sam's at the back door begging for cookies. We've already given him three, but he won't leave."

The entire family's nerves frayed having to chase after him, day and night, especially with the added worry that one day, he wouldn’t be so lucky crossing a street during jaunts through town. I'm convinced that’s one event we’d never live through.

Preoccupied with every ant that moved, Sam wasn’t in one of his “running off moods, so I retreated to the kitchen pantry to dig for the other half of the blueberry muffin I'd stashed from yesterday's breakfast. During the winter, my mom refused to let me leave for school without a "good, healthy breakfast." Usually oatmeal, wheat toast or Cheerios and bananas. "How about some eggs, sausage, hash browns, biscuits and peach preserves for a change?" I'd complain.

"Chef's day off," she'd answer.

Sarcasm? Where do you think I get it? Back to breakfast. During the summer, it is every man for himself.

I stuffed the muffin in my mouth, and then moved outside to the back steps to watch Sam sniff every single blade of grass as if new and magical scents had drifted in from the night before. Heaven help a rogue squirrel or chipmunk who dared invade our yard!

Doggy duties finally occupied Sam while visions of the last few weeks occupied my brain. How many journeys through the trunk had Cynthia and I taken? Several into the past, and one interesting trip into the future. Processing discoveries from our last trip—not to mention meeting characters like Elly Elloway or our canine detective, Molly—would take a long time.

Bang, bang, bang. "Gus? Are you awake? Come here, quick!"

I left Sam to his duties, flung open the back screen door and ran to the front of the house toward the persistent yells. "I'm coming. I'm coming!"

All thoughts of chewing out my best friend for screaming loud enough to wake the dead stopped cold the moment I opened the door.

"We have visitors." Cynthia leaned against the front porch railing flanked by two girls our age. "They surprised me with an early morning visit.

Before I could open my mouth, scream or pass out, she shoved me inside. "They know everything."

What color do you suggest for Book # 5?

Mary Cunningham Books

Pottermore!

2011-06-27T00:05:00.016-04:00

Can anyone explain Pottermore to me?? If J. K. Rowling had a hand in this, I'm sure it's phenomenal, but I'm a little lost. Please help!

Official J. K. Rowling Website

Cynthia's Attic on OmniLit & Amazon

An ode to English Plurals

2011-06-17T00:00:00.028-04:00

We'll begin with a box, and the plural is boxes, but the plural of ox becomes oxen, not oxes.

One fowl is a goose, but two are called geese, yet the plural of moose should never be meese.

You may find a lone mouse or a nest full of mice, yet the plural of house is houses, not hice.

If the plural of man is always called men, why shouldn't the plural of pan be called pen?

If I speak of my foot and show you my feet, and I give you a boot, would a pair be called beet?

If one is a tooth and a whole set are teeth, Why shouldn't the plural of booth be called beeth?

Let's face it - English is a crazy language. There is no egg in eggplant nor ham in hamburger; neither apple nor pine in pineapple. English muffins weren't invented in England . We take English for granted, but if we explore its paradoxes, we find that quicksand can work slowly, boxing rings are square, and a guinea pig is neither from Guinea nor is it a pig.

And why is it that writers write, but fingers don't fing, grocers don't groce and hammers don't ham?

If teachers taught, why didn't preachers praught? If a vegetarian eats vegetables, what does a humanitarian eat? Sometimes I think all the folks who grew up speaking English should be committed to an asylum for the verbally insane.

In what other language do people recite at a play and play at a recital? And how can a slim chance and a fat chance be the same, while a wise man and a wise guy are opposites?

You have to marvel at the unique lunacy of a language in which your house can burn up as it burns down, in which you fill in a form by filling it out, and in which an alarm goes off by going on.

And in closing, if Father is Pop, how come Mother's not Mop?

Have you read "Cynthia's Attic?" No? Do I have a treat for you!

Mary Cunningham on OmniLit

Babysitting Sugarpaw in Cynthia's Attic

2011-06-10T11:34:00.008-04:00

Stories for Children Publishing will be touring award-winning author VS Grenier and her book, “Babysitting SugarPaw” a picture book about friendship and telling the truth all month long in June 2011.

VS Grenier is an award-winning children’s author, founder & owner of Stories for Children Publishing, LLC., award-winning editor-in-chief of Stories for Children Magazine and chief editor for Halo Publishing, Int.; in addition, to running her own editorial and critique services.

VS Grenier learned how to hone her writing skills at the Institute of Children’s Literature and is a member of the League of Utah Writers (HWG), Society of Children’s Book Writers and Illustrators (SCBWI) and Musing Our Children.

You can find out more about VS Grenier’s World of Ink Author by clicking on BookTour schedule below. There will be giveaways, reviews, interviews, guest posts and more. Make sure to stop by and interact with VS Grenier and the hosts at the different stops by leaving comments and/or questions.

Babysitting Sugarpaw is the perfect story for early readers, especially those reluctant to be left with a babysitter. Sugarpaw does everything he can to disprupt Bonnie Whispers even though his father called her the "Best Babysitter in Town." The young bear is full of resentment that he has to have a babysitter at all!

V. S.Grenier crafts a story that is entertaining and, at the same time, teaches a valuable lesson about telling the truth. Kevin Scott Collier's illustrations move the story along beautifully allowing Sugarpaw's sweet personality to shine.

V. S. Grenier, Award-winning Author & Editor

Babysitting Sugarpaw Blog Tour Schedule

In addition, come listen to Blog Talk Radio’s World of Ink Network show: Stories for Children

Cynthia's Attic Books

Stories For Children Magazine

2011-06-02T11:38:00.000-04:00

I have the honor of being featured in "Stories For Children Magazine" which comes out June 6, 2011. They regularly feature published authors, but they also showcase young authors! Check out the link at the bottom and click on some of the Young Author Stories!

In case you aren't familiar with this wonderful ezine (soon to be print!), here's a little info directly from the site:

Come take an adventure in the World of Ink with Stories for Children Magazine, an online Ezine for children ages 3 to 12 years old.

Did you know the love of reading is often times triggered by an adult reading good children’s stories to very young children? Some expectant parents read to their babies while they're still in the womb and continue every day after they're born. Stories for Children Magazine is designed to unlock your children’s imagination and take them on an exciting adventure into the World of Ink with Stanley Bookman from Storyville as their guide on the magical monthly trips.

Each issue is loaded with fun stories and articles based on age-appropriate reading levels. The magazine also contains puzzles, games, children’s book reviews, crafts, and poems to inspire the imagination. Children's authors or illustrators are also known to stop by, hoping to make new friends along their journey into the World of Ink.

Stories for Children Magazine is not just for adult writers. One thing that sets Stories for Children Magazine apart is that we also publish stories written and illustrated by children and teens. While submitting stories to children’s magazines, editor VS Grenier was shocked to discover that few magazines allowed underage writers. She vowed to change this and has done so with Stories for Children Magazine. Stories for Children Magazine encourages readers who are our future writers and illustrators to submit to all areas of the magazine so that our readers can become a real part of the adventure that’s found in the World of Ink.

Reading a good children’s story has always been an enchantment. Children take pleasure in having a story read to them anytime or anywhere – whether it be around a campfire, under a starry night, in their beds wrapped up tight in snuggly blankets, beneath a shady tree on a hot summer’s day, or in front of a roaring fireplace on a cold winter’s day. Children love to listen to a story being read and this can go as far as adolescence. So sit back and let the authors and illustrators at Stories for Children Magazine take you and your child along with Stanley on a magical journey into the World of Ink!

Stories For Children Magazine website

Cynthia's Attic Books website

Excerpt: The Magician's Castle (Book Four)

2011-05-09T10:49:00.000-04:00

In trying to break a spell put on Cynthia's family by a magician, Cynthia and Gus find themselves in a magical garden filled with frightening stone statues.

I jumped at the sight of more than a dozen hideous statues, faces frozen in fear. A contrast of white flowers, from Aron's description–edelweiss–surrounded them. We moved close to Molly for protection.

"Wh…what are they?" Cynthia gasped. "And, why do they look so afraid?"

I'd never been quite this unnerved in all our travels, even when staring down Jack LaBuse and his band of pirates. "C'mon, Molly," I urged. "Let's go." She didn't budge. I tugged her collar, but couldn't move her massive size. She did a little circle dance, stamping the ground to make a bed, and then laid down for the night. There had to be better places to sleep.

I shrugged and gave a resigned smile. "At least she still acts like a dog. Looks like we're here for the night."

"But, Gus! Look at this place. I won't shut my eyes with those things staring at us!"

"I agree, but let's face it, it's getting dark and cold, and Molly is warm and furry. I'm sleeping right here." I curled up next to her, my head resting in the scruff of her neck.

Cynthia stamped her foot. "Have you seen how much she sheds? My clothes will be a mess. And, who knows what she's rolled in recently." She sniffed. "Eww. She smells…doggy."

"She's a dog!" I was in no mood to argue. "Suit yourself. I'm comfy and warm. What about you?"

Cynthia settled in, her head resting on Molly's shoulder. She sighed and moments later, started to snore.

Rat-a-tat-tat. Ba-boom, ba-boom, ba-boom. Drumbeats? Band practice? I played the snare drum and Jimmy Mathews pounded steadily on the bass to the ‘Panther Fight Song.’ Hey! What the… My head came under attack by a felt-covered drum beater.

Molly's heartbeat pounded in my ear…faster and faster. She raised her head and stared to the left. No, I did not want to know what she sees! Nope, not gonna look! But, like anticipating a train wreck, I couldn't help myself.

Cynthia, too, must've felt Molly stir, because she peered over the dog's shoulder. "What is it?"

I shook my head. Molly focused on a huge rock formation down on one knee, with its chin resting on disfigured knuckles. My eyes locked on the frightening eyes staring back. A thin stream of moonlight landed directly on this fearsome creature.

Molly stood, quivering and faced the giant statue, and the rhyme we found in the metal box popped into my head. Search among the edelweiss. There was certainly enough of that around. Turning once, then turning twice. Molly turned, first in one direction then twice in the other.

In the moonlight you will see…that's it. Moonlight! The beam shining on the giant's face moved ever so slightly toward its knee. "Cynthia," I whispered, "the giant's knee. The one in the riddle."

Right on cue, Molly wriggled forward and we went with her. No way did we want to lose her protection. The statue didn't budge, and the dog did what dogs do: she (should She be capitalized?) dug a hole, right beside the giant's bended knee.

Search among the edelweiss,
Turning once, then turning twice.
In the moonlight you will see,
Yonder looms the giant's knee.

Molly dug furiously taking no time to rest. A dog on a mission. Then she sat, turned her head to one side–just as before–and looked into the hole.
I patted her dirt-splattered muzzle and reached inside the hole. "It's another metal box! Oh, please don't tell me we're going to have to figure out another riddle!"

"Just open it, Gus! Why do you always have to expect the worst?"
She's right. No need to ‘borrow trouble’ as Great-aunt Sally used to say. I opened the box, pulled out a frayed piece of paper the size of a book page, and read:

Travel forward. Travel back.
Only Time will tell.
Toss, you must, a lock of hair
Down the Wishing Well.

Travel forward. Travel back
With the missing page.
Only then will love return
To the magic stage.

"Is it the book page? Let me see it." Cynthia took the fragile piece of paper out of my hand. "There's a faint symbol at the top. I can't quite make it out."

"It's a coat of arms," I answered. "My grandfather told me how special symbols, going back for centuries, identified certain families."

"Wonder whose family this one represents? If the coat of arms belongs to the Kistler family, then this could be the missing page to the Book of Spells!" Cynthia did a silly dance waving the paper in the air.

I wanted to laugh and to believe we might be closer to an answer. "How do we find out for sure? Go back to the castle and talk to Eva, or should we go home, to 1964 and see if the book is still on Sebastien's kitchen table?"
Cynthia shoved the paper in my face. "Did you even read this? We're going to have to find this wishing well, and a lock of hair to throw into it. Pay attention, Gus!"

"You're right," I admitted. "I can't think. This place is really creeping me out." I scanned the dark, scary garden and saw Molly headed for a large pine tree. We could not lose her. "Molly's way over there. C'mon, let's go."

We walked as fast as we could without attracting the attention of the garden monsters. No sense waking them up. Too late. The smaller statues stayed motionless, but the stone giant moved, and then to my horror, groaned to its feet! He turned rigidly in my direction.

BUY The Magician's Castle on Amazon

BUY on OmniLit

BUY Echelon Press

BUY Mary Cunningham Books

A Dog Named Slugger in Cynthia's Attic!

2011-04-27T13:36:00.000-04:00

This touching "memoir will warm the hearts of dog lovers everywhere; Slugger is the heart and soul of the book, and his dedication, devotion, and love make him an unforgettable character. . . . will appeal equally to readers interested in coping or helping others cope with disabilities. . . This stirring, inspirational story will appeal to teen dog lovers, too.”

~ Booklist

A Dog Named Slugger from John Carlin on Vimeo.

From the Publisher of A Dog Named Slugger:

“This is the true story of author Leigh Brill and her trained service dog, Slugger. With Slugger's help, Brill, though struggling with cerebral palsy, was able to complete college and earn a masters degree. Now a counselor and motivational speaker, Brill tells how Slugger's help and friendship changed her life.”

Leigh Brill Bio:

I was born in North Carolina and raised in Virginia’s Shenandoah Valley. Growing up amid the beauty of the Blue Ridge Mountains, I developed a love of nature along with a passion for writing. I left the valley in 1988 to study at Roanoke College. In spite of the challenges posed by my congenital cerebral palsy, I graduated with honors.

With my first service dog, Slugger, by my side, I went on to obtain a Master’s degree in Counseling from James Madison University. I worked for several years as a therapist in community agencies and then for Ronald McDonald House Charities before deciding to embrace my writing career in earnest.

Now in the company of both my second service dog Kenda, and her working successor, Pato I am writing my next book; Miranda and Charlie and the Great Cupcake Caper is the first in a series of fictional juvenile stories featuring an energetic kid-detective and her service dog.

My thoughts:

I have to admit to knowing very little about the training and duties of service dogs, but after reading A Dog Named Slugger, I've received a valued education on the trials of those who rely on the performance of these wonderful animals.

From the author's, sometimes, heartbreaking childhood, to the discovery that she could find true companionship and independence with Slugger by her side, this book captures every emotion.

I was heartened to read that, although these dogs maintain a "working relationship" with their partners, they are also allowed to have fun and just be dogs. The sock game that Brill and Slugger played is a perfect example.

I look forward to reading Leigh Brill's new juvenile series, beginning with Miranda and Charlie and the Great Cupcake Caper.

Mary Cunningham Books Website

Buy Cynthia's Attic Series on Amazon

Cynthia's Attic Celebrates Earth Day!

2011-04-22T00:05:00.009-04:00

Join Athletes For the Earth and do your part!

For over 40 years, Earth Day—April 22—has inspired and mobilized individuals and organizations worldwide to demonstrate their commitment to environmental protection and sustainability. Take small steps to save our earth!

Cynthia’s Attic, Vampires, and Werewolves

2011-04-07T10:46:00.022-04:00

In 2004, fresh off the excitement of my first 2-book publishing contract for Cynthia’s Attic, I began establishing an online presence at my publisher’s request, uh…insistence.

One of my first tasks was to explore author websites and chat groups. Believe it or not, I didn’t find one blog! Blogging had not reached the manic stage of today, with most bloggers simply writing online journals; but networking sites were hot.

I joined a children’s chat group in order to schmooze with other young reader (‘Tween) authors and immediately related to one particular author. Both of us had first-time multi-book contracts, the idea for our series’ sprang from recurring dreams, and our stories were fantasy/fiction. A perfect networking match.

We chatted, online, for several months, and then lost touch. I can’t quite remember why, but I’d guess it was because I was in the middle of editing my first book, The Missing Locket, deadlines approached, and time management was crucial. I’m sure it had nothing to do with Stephanie Meyer’s schedule. Wonder what ever happened to her? I do hope she had some success with her series about…vampires, I think.

Speaking of vampires, I was recently asked why I chose to write books for ‘Tweens that are lighter; vampire-less, werewolf-less, zombie-less…you get the drift. I can’t really say. It just happened. Cynthia’s Attic does delve into magic and spells and such, but the scariest monster, so far, is Stony, a rock monster who attacks twelve-year-old Gus, in an enchanted garden in The Magician’s Castle. Other than that, a nasty, bad-breathed clown, a sinister stranger on horseback and a friendly alligator are as menacing as Cynthia’s Attic gets.
Until Book # 5.

Yes, I’m crumbling. In the next book (title TBD), a werewolf pops into the lives of best friends, Cynthia and Gus. Not your typical werewolf, mind you…a more congenial, helpful type, but a werewolf to be sure. Stay tuned!

Cynthia's Attic Series
The Missing Locket
The Magic Medallion
Curse of the Bayou
The Magician's Castle

Blurb: The Magician’s Castle

In trying to escape the boring summer of 1964, the adventurous twelve-year-old girls discover a trunk in Cynthia’s attic that her family has possessed for three generations.

Cynthia’s Attic: The Magician’s Castle (Book Four): Sebastien the Great, a magician whose fiancée, Kathryn, disappears through the magic trunk, vows revenge. If Cynthia and Gus don't find a missing page from the “Book of Spells,” Cynthia’s family could face financial and personal ruin.

The twelve-year-old best friends walk through miles of tree tunnels, stumble on an enchanted garden ruled by a cranky rock monster, and receive clues from an eccentric fairy named Eloise Elloway. They get the surprise of their lives when they're sent fifty years into the future, have a shocking encounter with another set of best friends, and gather a fresh set of clues that could lead to breaking the magician’s spell.

Mary Cunningham Books

YouTube code for video: Cynthia’s Attic Series

Cynthia's Attic: Peace, Love Adopt!

2011-04-04T09:21:00.021-04:00

It’s been two and a half years since we lost our 16-year-old terrier mix, Molly, and more than two years before we even considered adopting another dog. We’d casually talk about it but, just over a week ago, I announced to my husband that I was “putting the word out” to various pet rescue sites.

A few days later we saw the picture of a little black and white puff ball named Gigi. For whatever reason, her owner abandoned her at a Pets Mart. I choose to believe this person simply couldn’t take care of her and thought, what better place to leave a dog? Surely some kind soul would take care of her.

Lucky for Gigi and lucky for us, 1 Lucky Dog Rescue picked her up, got her shots up-to-date and groomed her for what might be a long adoption process. Not so. The moment we spotted the picture that a friend posted on my Facebook page, we knew she was the “daughter” we’d waited for.

Oh, but getting her wouldn’t be that easy. First, she was in South Florida! Logistics were against us, but fate intervened. A rescue transport volunteer just happened to be driving to the Atlanta area the next day! Within 48 hours of seeing her picture, we had a new member of the family. We decided that, although the name Gigi is cute, it just didn’t fit, so she is now, Lucy. Like the Beatles song, she’s our diamond. WOOF promotes adoptions and rescues. Please do your part and help dogs like Lucy find good homes. You won’t regret it. If you don’t believe me, just look at these pictures. Who could resist? And, please, if you're thinking of getting a furry friend for your family - ADOPT!

Mary Cunningham Books - Award-winning books for 'Tweens!

Cynthia's Attic: The Magician's Castle - 2011 Blog Tour

2011-03-11T09:10:00.005-05:00

Feb 23, 2011 - Talent Tuesday - Quake Blog

Feb. 28, 2011 – The Magician's Castle promo -Jennifer Wylie Blog

Mar 2, 2011 - Interview - Writer J. A. Campbell Blog

March 2, 2011 – Inspiring Young Readers and Writers - The Writing Mama Blog

March 3, 2011 – Brick by Brick - The Children's & Teens Book Connection - TC & TBC

March 4, 2011 – Cynthia’s Attic, Werewolves and Vampires – The Candid Canine Blog

March 8, 2011 – Cynthia’s Attic: Legend of Lupinwold (Book Five) – A sneak peek! Veronika Asks Blog

March 9, 2011 - Interview - Sweet On Books Website

March 10, 2011 - History Meets Mystery - Omnimystery News Blog

Featured Author Interview-Summer 2011 issue of Stories for Children Magazine

***

Cynthia’s Attic: The Magician’s Castle (Book Four) by Mary Cunningham

In trying to escape the boring summer of 1964, the adventurous twelve-year-old girls discover a trunk in Cynthia’s attic that her family has possessed for three generations.

Sebastien the Great, a magician whose fiancée, Kathryn, disappears through the magic trunk, vows revenge. If Cynthia and Gus don't find a missing page from the “Book of Spells,” Cynthia’s family could face financial and personal ruin.

The twelve-year-old best friends walk through miles of tree tunnels, stumble on an enchanted garden ruled by a cranky rock monster, and receive clues from an eccentric fairy named Eloise Elloway. They get the surprise of their lives when they're sent fifty years into the future, have a shocking encounter with another set of best friends, and gather a fresh set of clues that could break the magician’s spell.

Mary Cunningham Books
Quake:
Amazon The Magician's Castle
OmniLit

Inspiration From Others - Cheryl C. Malandrinos

2011-03-08T00:05:00.002-05:00

My love of books began many years ago. I can’t point to a specific book that captured my interest, but I can say our house was always filled with books. My parents were avid readers. They set a good example by reading every night, even if all they had time for was the daily newspaper.

Who knew all those years ago that my love of books would turn into a fabulous and satisfying career?

After graduating from the Breaking into Print program (now called Break into Print) from Long Ridge Writers Group in 2005, I started blogging. Mostly it was about me, my articles for Writer2Writer, and my works in progress.

In the spring of 2007, Pump Up Your Book! (formerly Pump Up Your Book Promotion) opened its virtual doors and I began hosting authors at my blog. Being a tour host offered my readers interesting and regular content. Learning about all those good books made me realize how much I missed reading daily. Yes, I still read from time to time, but many months could pass between books. I wanted to carve out a career in writing and I didn’t feel I could do both well. One thing I kept hearing over and again, however, is the importance of reading what you wish to write. That made sense, so I decided if I wanted to be successful as a writer, I must make the time to read.

So I did.

The more authors I hosted, the more inspired I felt to keep plugging away at my works in progress. I began reviewing books at my blog, which is how I discovered the publisher who would eventually release Little Shepherd, my first children’s picture book.

A few months after I started hosting authors for Pump Up Your Book! I became a member of their staff. I’ve been coordinating virtual book tours for authors in a variety of genres for over three years now, and I love it more each day. I tend to work with clients who write in the genres I am interested in writing and reading most frequently: Christian fiction and non-fiction, mystery and crime, historical fiction, and books for children and teens.

Has this influenced my writing? Most definitely.

I learn from every author I work with. I discover what I love about my clients’ books, and sometimes, what I don’t like. I’ve seen how important it is when you’re writing a series to keep track of the major characters and the need to develop them as the series progresses. I’m learning how to sprinkle in just the right amount of backstory and details so that the reader gets to know my characters and feels like she is right there alongside them.

Can you name some authors who inspire you? How have they influenced your writing?

Cheryl Malandrinos is a freelance writer and editor. A founding member of Musing Our Children, Ms. Malandrinos is also Editor in Chief of the group’s quarterly newsletter, Pages & Pens.

She is a Tour Coordinator for Pump Up Your Book!, a book reviewer, and blogger. Little Shepherd is her first children’s book. Ms. Malandrinos lives in Western Massachusetts with her husband and two young daughters. She also has a son who is married.

You can visit Cheryl online at:

Website
Blog

The Children's & Teens Book Connection
The Little Shepherd Childrens Book Blog
The Professional Writer's Connection

Mary Cunningham Books

Cynthia's Attic: The Magician's Castle 2011 Blog Tour!

Dolly's Imagination Library

2011-01-31T00:05:00.009-05:00

I had the pleasure of taking part in the Pulpwood Queens' Girlfriend Weekend, Jan 13-16 in Jefferson, TX. To say I had fun is a gross understatement. I had a BALL, especially at the Great Big Ball of Hair Ball! (You'd have to be there)

Not only does founder, Kathy Louise Patrick of Beauty and the Book - a beauty salon/bookstore - support literacy and authors, she is hugely involved in the Dolly Parton Imagination Library. There's nothing this dynamo won't do when it comes to reading!

And, a shout-out goes to my home county, Harrison/Corydon, Indiana!

The Harrison County Community Foundation is again offering a 2:1 match during the 2011 calendar year; this time to support Dolly Parton's Imagination Library program through the Early Readers Fund.

"The program will cost about $50,000 a year", reports executive director Steve Gilliland. "This double-match incentive is to recruit donor partners from the community to help us build an endowment that will perpetually fund the Imagination Library."

Joan and Pete Schickel quickly took advantage of the Foundation's offer. They provided nearly $25,000 in stock to become the lead private donor.

"Everyone knows how much we love children and our schools," says Joan. "Pete and I believe this program will help provide an appreciation for reading and give children a head start for kindergarten."

Please support the Dolly Parton Imagination Library in your area. If your county doesn't have one, look into starting one!

Here's how:
A community must make the program accessible to all preschool children in their area. The community pays for the books and mailing, promotes the program, registers the children, and enters the information into the database.

From there The Dollywood Foundation takes over and manages the system to deliver the books to the home. You can find out more of the operational details on other pages in this website – so what are you waiting for! Hundreds of communities are providing books to hundreds of thousands of children.

Check out the Pulpwood Queens, Beauty & the Book and the Dolly Parton Imagination Library! Click Here

Harrison County Community Foundation

Mary Cunningham Books for 'Tweens

Of Thee I Sing - Barack Obama, Loren Long

2011-01-05T15:31:00.014-05:00

About the author:

Barack Obama is the forty-fourth president of the United States. Born in Hawaii to a mother from Kansas and a father from Kenya, he himself is now the father of two daughters, Malia and Sasha. It was spending time with them that inspired him to write Of Thee I Sing. After Barack Obama became president, he and his wife, Michelle, and their daughters moved into the White House in Washington, DC, where they currently live with their dog, Bo.

About the illustrator:

Loren Long is the bestselling and award-winning author and illustrator of many beloved books for children, including Drummer Boy and the New York Times bestseller Otis. Born in Missouri and raised in Lexington, Kentucky, he is also the illustrator of Watty Piper’s The Little Engine That Could, as well as Toy Boat, I Dream of Trains, and Wind Flyers. He lives in Ohio with his wife, Tracy, their two sons, Griffith and Graham, and their dogs, Elle and Moon.

About the book:

In this tender, beautiful letter to his daughters, President Barack Obama has written a moving tribute to thirteen groundbreaking Americans and the ideals that have shaped our nation. From the artistry of Georgia O’Keeffe, to the courage of Jackie Robinson, to the patriotism of George Washington, President Obama sees the traits of these heroes within his own children, and within all of America’s children. This book was written before Barack Obama become President. All proceeds from the book’s sales go to a scholarship fund for military children with a parent who was killed or disabled.

Buy on Amazon

Mary Cunningham Books

Red In The Flowerbed

2010-12-15T00:05:00.029-05:00

Andrea Nepa Bio:

Andrea Nepa is the mother of an adopted Vietnamese daughter named Leah. In 2001, Adoptions from the Heart assisted with the international adoption. Andrea dedicated her book to her daughter: "For my dear Leah, whose journey in her young life has already taken her to far away and unexpected places." In 2006, Leah was diagnosed with cancer. She is currently in remission. Andrea lives with Leah and her husband, David, in Haddonfield, New Jersey. The author is a registered dietitian for the Children's Hospital of Philadelphia.

Red In The Flower Bed is a beautifully written and illustrated story about the power of international adoption.

A lone seed, dropped into an inhospitable environment is followed until it reaches a perfect, fertile flower bed where it adds to the beautiful colors of the rainbow.

A perfect book for adoptive families or those considering international or local adoption.

Buy links:
Tribute Books
Book web site

Andrea Nepa Facebook
Tribute Books website
Tribute Books Facebook

Mary Cunningham Books

Cats In The Attic - Cynthia's Attic!

2010-11-16T00:05:00.005-05:00

Cynthia's Attic, and favorite time-traveler, Augusta Lee (Gus), want to welcome a newcomer to the attic scene - Little Bitty Kitty, or LBK for short.

Gus: So, I hear we’re heading to Indiana the first of December. You, Wendel Wordsworth, me and Cynthia. You’ve never been there right?

LBK: Meow.

Gus: Well, you’re gonna love it. Sure you’re just a little kitty, and it’ll be cold there, like really, really cold, but you have a winter coat, right?

LBK: Meow.

Gus: And this Gram person, the one in your story, is she coming along?

LBK: Meow.

Gus: She seems like a nice lady. Your story is cute, too. The way you wiggle through that little…Well, guess I shouldn’t give away the ending.

LBK: Meow.

Gus And your book is interactive? It has coloring pages? That’s great. I love to color...especially outside the lines!

LBK: Meow.

Gus: Well, guess we ought to start packing for the trip. I’m visiting Corydon Intermediate School on Dec 3. What school are you going to?

LBK: Meow.

Gus: Oh, yeah, Corydon Elementary School. Those are some great students. Well, so long for now. See you in Indiana!

LBK: Meow!

Whew! Good thing Gus knows "kitty-speak"!

Little Bitty Kitty Website

Wendel Wordsworth Website

Cynthia's Attic Series on Amazon!

Mary Cunningham Books

Savannah Children's Book Festival

2010-11-11T11:28:00.021-05:00

I'm thrilled to be returning to the Savannah Children's Book Festival after a 3-year absence! The last time I was there, I had 2 Cynthia's Attic books. This year, I'll be signing 4 books in the series and writing Book # 5!

If you're in the area, stop by Forsyth Park from 10:00AM-4:00PM. The weather is going to be fantastic!

Here are a few pics from the past.

Shannon Greenland and me

Signing books for happy readers!

Mary Cunningham Books
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October is Adopt a Pet Month!!

2010-10-10T00:05:00.008-04:00

The American Humane Sociey is promoting pet adoptions all this month.

So, what does this mean to me? We adopted Molly (or did she adopt us? The jury's still out on that) from the Miami Animal Shelter in 1996. We had 13 of the most fun, satisfying, heartwarming, and joyful years with her.

The pictures above document one of Molly's favorite trips to Maine. Perusing the lake and wildlife, and striking one of her best, dignified poses.

Unfortunately, she had one of her worst moments when she was "skunked" during that same trip.

Molly crossed over the Rainbow Bridge 2 years ago today. Honor Molly's life by giving a deserving dog or cat a "forever home!"

The American Humane Society Adopt-a-pet month.

How To Turn Your Book Club Into A Spectacular Event!

2010-10-04T00:05:00.009-04:00

"How to Turn Your Book Club into a Spectacular Event, by Mayra Calvani, speaks directly to kids who love to read and who want to share their favorite books with friends." --The Story of a Writer

The perfect books for 'Tweens and Teens wanting to start a book club!

Do you love reading? Do you enjoy talking about books with friends? Why not start a book club--YOUR own book club, and turn it into a SPECTACULAR event?

Book clubs aren't only for adults. Many kids like you would love to start a book club but don't know how. In this book, I will teach you all you need to know to become a FABULOUS book club hostess. In some cases, you'll need an adult to help you. If that happens, make your parent, guardian or teacher read this book!

"How fun would it be to put together your very own book club? You see and hear about book clubs all the time. Why not make your own?

HOW TO TURN YOUR BOOK CLUB INTO A SPECTACULAR EVENT is packed with great ideas on making this happen. From ideas of what to call your book club to brainstorming questions to ask, this is a must have book if you're serious about having a successful club." --YABooks Central

"From beginning to end, How to Turn Your Book Club Into a Spectacular Event is a great guide for those children who want to take the initiative and create a book club. It provides all the information needed, and even a breakdown of book genres, along with examples of books. And, it ends with a list of popular authors who write for young readers, including the title of one of their books… Any book that helps guide children on the reading path, and encourages them to read is a book that should be recommended. How to Turn Your Book Club Into a Spectacular Event is one such book." --Writing for Children and More

Twilight Times Books Website:
Author Website: Mayra's Secret Bookcase
Author's Blog:

Mary Cunningham Books
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I love Fall Festivals!

2010-09-28T09:59:00.014-04:00

Kudos to Daphne and all at Ithica Elementary and the P.T.S.O. for their fantastic Fall Festival! I was fortunate enough to be asked to sponsor a booth.

The weather was still a little warm, but the enthusiasm was even warmer. The festival had a variety of vendors; food, jewelry, crafts, sports and educational. Oh, and books! I signed quite a few "Cynthia's Attic" books, and passed out tons of bookmarks.

I was continually impressed with the organization and dedication on all levels; faculty, parents and students.

I'll look forward to next year...if I'm asked!

And...I took care of my little four-legged friends, too!

Mary Cunningham Books
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Talk Like A Pirate Day in Cynthia's Attic

2010-09-19T00:05:00.006-04:00

Avast Me Hearties!

It's time for that annual event, "Talk Like A Pirate Day!"

So, give me your best Captain Jack Sparrow line. The winner gets dinner with JD, himself!

Ha! Gotcha! Do you think, in your wildest dreams, that if I had the power to grant dinner with Johnny Depp, I GIVE IT AWAY?? Not in this lifetime.

Anyhoo, what's your favorite scene, line, eyebrow twitch? Post it here, or walk the plank!

Watch the trailer for Pirate of the Caribbean # 4!

Pirates of the Caribbean # 4 Blog

Talk Like A Pirate Day Website

And, don't forget to order your copy of Cynthia's Attic: Curse of the Bayou! Amazon or Kindle!

The Newest Character in "Cynthia's Attic" is...

2010-09-10T13:39:00.014-04:00

Molly mulling over her next role in "Cynthia's Attic" # 5!

Without further ado, the winner of the Choose the next character in Cynthia's Attic (Book # 5) is...Veronika for her passionate plea for Molly to be a recurring character!

I have a feeling Molly would approve too, Veronika since you described her as pretty, clever, funny, nice, etc. :) I'm sure she's excited to be in the next book since she had so much fun in "The Magician's Castle."

Anyway, gotta get busy writing Molly's scenes along with the NEW character, Veronika!

I'll keep you posted. Thanks, everyone who participated on my blog, the Quake blog and facebook!

Mary Cunningham Books
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Choose A Character For Cynthia's Attic: Book Five!

2010-07-27T12:22:00.038-04:00

Want to choose a character to be in the next Cynthia's Attic book? Here's how!

Listed below are 10 Cynthia's Attic characters I'm considering for a recurring role in Book Five. Leave a comment with your choice and an explanation as to why you think the character deserves to return. I'll choose one winner based on the most compelling reason.

What do you win? First is the Cynthia's Attic book of your choice. You can wait for Book Five (title coming soon!) or you can choose one of the first four titles. Now for the really fun part. If your character and comment is chosen, you'll also become a character in the book!

Choose one:

*Louis - 10-year-old ghost - The Missing Locket

*Aunt Belle - Cynthia's great-aunt - The Missing Locket

*Blackie - The evil clown - The Magic Medallion

*Jake - Cave guide and Gus's dad - The Magic Medallion

*Gabriella - The fortuneteller - The Magic Medallion & Curse of the Bayou

*Jasmine Boudreau - Mudbug's mother - Curse of the Bayou

*Samantha Connor - Cynthia's excitable great-grandmother - Curse of the Bayou

*Linus Carson - the unscrupulous antiques dealer - The Magician's Castle

*Kathryn - Sebastian's fiancée and assistant - The Magician's Castle

*Molly - The dog that helps 'dig up clues' - The Magician's Castle

You have until August 31, then I'm on my own! So, let me know your choice and why! I have to start writing!!

Mary Cunningham Books
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Not Just "One Of the Guys!" Iris Black, author

2010-07-19T00:05:00.021-04:00

I'm thrilled to welcome one of my favorite young authors, Iris Black. When you meet Iris, it's impossible not to feed off her energy and enthusiasm. Enjoy the interview!

“Go confidently in the direction of your dreams. Live the life you always imagined.” - Henry David Thoreau

Iris Black is a young adult author and a young adult! Juggling school projects and college applications with her laptop full of bright characters and fun stories guarantees she will have an eventful senior year.

Your character, Sam, has tons of friends, but is no longer content with being "Just One Of The Guys." What inspired you to write Sam's story?

I guess the inspiration was in my own experiences. Most of my close, longtime friends are guys and they range from all types: computer nerds, science and math geeks, athletes, and especially band kids. We’ve had some fun adventures - and misadventures. Being the only girl in the group put me in the interesting position of having to keep up while being the go-to guru for relationship advice. Despite the fact that they all had girlfriends before a guy ever asked me out. So Sam is the product of some of the things girls like me go through. I just hadn’t found a young adult book that dealt with the issues - the romance and the adventure and the conflicts - that can and often do happen to real girls.

You're a young author trying to balance school with writing. Do you see a career in writing, or will it be your "secondary passion?"

I am going to keep writing and I hope to make it a big part of my life and not let it slip into a hobby. Still, I enjoy the more academic side of life. I plan to pursue a full career apart from writing, but I’m willing to adapt those plans if my writing situation changes.

E-books are booming and you're reaching a huge audience. To what do you attribute your success? Any marketing tools you'd care to share with other authors?

Honestly, I have to lay my success at the feet of my readers. I think there’s a big demand for young adult e-books - most teenagers have access to a computer or even iPhones and iPods that are equipped with e-readers. Being able to read a book on the same device that plays your music or lets you check Facebook is a big draw for teen readers. The best tip I can give on marketing is to find a need and fill it - but fill it with what you know and like. I was in the marching band at my old school and we had a ton of fun adventures, so I knew exactly what my characters needed to experience to make the story feel real. Add a touch of imagination and you have a realistic escape - something that appeals to most teen readers.

Any plans to expand Sam's story? Are you working on any other writing projects?

I am writing a sequel to Sam’s story and plan to continue chronicling the adventures of her and her friends. Like you mentioned before, I’m balancing school and writing. I started at a new, more rigorous school this past year and it’s been a bit of an adjustment digging out some time to hang out with Sam, but I’ve got a better handle on things now. I’ve also been playing with urban fantasies and even a historical fantasy. I hope to have at least one of those bigger projects completed sometime next summer.

What one piece of advice would you give young writers starting out?

Don’t lose your imagination, loose it. In school, the focus is going to be on academic writing - analyze this book, analyze this old dead writer’s style, analyze your biology lab results, etc. Don’t let the analysis bury your creativity. Try not to write fairytales on the backs of you English essays, but keep finding time to jot down the bits and pieces that pop into your head when you let yourself daydream.

What is your favorite subject in school? Your least favorite?

Hmm, this is a tough one. I think I like history the most. It is the most epic story that hasn’t been finished yet and I really enjoy finding connections between, say, the Black Death and Hitler’s invasion of Poland in WWII. My least favorite is probably chemistry. I had a really tough time in the class this past year and it was really difficult for met to wrap my brain around schizophrenic electrons (they’re waves and particles).

If you could spend time with one character from a favorite childhood book, who would it be?

Ahh! Another hard one, I have lots of favorite books. However, I’d have to say Canth from Anne McCaffrey’s Dragonriders of Pern series. He was a brown dragon and F’lon was his rider. I loved the dragons and Canth was always full of good humor while being just as brave and impressive as the more prestigious bronze dragons. Plus, who wouldn’t want to ride dragonback?

Thanks for a great interview, Iris! And, after reading all about this talented author, I'm sure you'll want to check out her work!

Buy links - Just One Of the Guys:
Amazon
Omnilit

'Tween time-travel series, Cynthia's Attic.

Download the series on Kindle today!

Mary Cunningham Books
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Scout Camp Memories

2010-07-15T16:04:00.007-04:00

After many decades, I still have fond memories looking back on my scout camp experience. I was probably 10 or 11—at that vulnerable age just shy of the terrible teenage years.

I went to camp two years in a row and the first year was, by far, the best. Although, the 2nd year taught me much more about life and relationships.

The first year, four of us friends who grew up together, went to school together and played sports together, resided for two weeks in a three-sided Gypsy Camp cabin. While there was some mild bickering amongst our quartet, we remained fiercely loyal to each other and pretty much stuck together. As I remember, we came in 2nd in the end-of-camp talent contest performing a skit to the tune of Junior Birdmen.

This is the way I remember it:

Up in the air Junior Birdmen
Up in the air upside down
Up in the air Junior Birdmen
Keep your noses off the ground

When you hear the doorbell ringing
And you have your badge of tin
Then you know, Junior Birdmen
That you sent your box tops in.

(If you have another version, please post it, or post your favorite camp song)

The 2nd year wasn't quite as much fun. We graduated to the next level; a full-size cabin with 8 scouts, one of which was the daughter of the head counselor. "Lynn" (not her real name - I'm afraid she'll find me and beat me up, again) was a real, uh...snot. It was either done her way or she ran to her mother to squeal on how mean we were being to her. Like the four of us who grew up together, "Lynn" had 3 life-long friends in the cabin with her. Only difference was, they couldn't stand her either.

As stressful as that was, I learned some valuable lessons:

1) Those in charge are not always kind to the masses.
2) Life is not always fair.
3) I'm never going to be able to get along with everyone.
4) I can rise above injustice and have fun in spite of disagreeable people.

So, to all you Junior Birdmen out there..."Keep your noses off the ground!"

I have no idea what that means, but it seems like a good way to end this blog post.

'Tween time-travel series, Cynthia's Attic.

Download the series on Kindle today!

Mary Cunningham Books
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Video: Cynthia's Attic Series

2010-07-08T07:51:00.015-04:00

Latest video for the series, "Cynthia's Attic!"

Follow twelve-year-old best friends, Cynthia and Gus, as they travel through time meeting and having adventures with their ancestors!

Mary Cunningham Books
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My Dad

2010-06-19T12:53:00.016-04:00

This is one of my favorite pictures of my dad. I'm not sure why because he looks very uncertain about posing for this picture. Maybe it's because, in later years, he'd be much more comfortable behind the camera, writing for a large, city newspaper.

Paul Bulleit was the middle child of three brothers. They were born pretty close to one year apart. Maybe because he was the middle child, it became his duty to leave Hanover College in the early thirties, and his dream of playing college football, to help support the family during the depression. His two brothers went on to graduate. Dad went on to a career as a newspaper reporter.

He never complained about the 12-14-hour days (including the commute to and from Louisville, KY), and seemed to thrive during his days on the court beat, the medical beat, and finally, his own column in the Courier Journal. He was especially fond of his yearly "duty" covering Millionaires Row at the Kentucky Derby.

My dad's been gone for over 25 years. He was an amazing writer and is 75% responsible for my writing career. My English teacher, Mrs. Elam gets the other 25%. I just wish I'd shown more appreciation for his craft because I know, now, just how hard it is.

As proof, this is a picture of my dad in the Courier newsroom in the early 60's - hard at work.

Happy Father's Day, Dad!

Glamour Girl From The Stars - Carlton Scott

2010-06-07T00:05:00.005-04:00

GLAMOUR GIRL FROM THE STARS-- Out of this world rhyming story about a 3 foot tall alien girl named Plee-Dee who borrows her father's flying saucer to visit Earth hoping to enter the Miss Universe Pageant in LA. She visits different cultures around the world realizing she feels good about herself without having to enter pageants. The book intends to teach little girls self esteem. Illustrations in colored pencil and photos from the author.

Review:

As a kid, I loved anything to do with space. At risk a revealing my age, the first poem I ever wrote (around age 9) began, "When I was a little girl like you, I went up in Sputnik # 2." For those of you younger than 60, Google Sputnik.

I can only imagine how much I would've loved Glamour Girl From the Stars, by Carlton Scott. Heck, I love it now at a much-advanced age.

Looking through a telescope across the Universe, Plee-Dee, an alien girl from across the galaxy, spots Earth and likes what she sees. Convincing her father that she's only shopping for a new spacesuit, she takes off in his spaceship toward the blue planet. After a time-traveling mistake sends her back to dinosaur age, she sets course for 2010 Las Vegas where shoes, clothes, Elvis impersonators and the Miss Universe Pageant (imagine the irony!) is her first stop.

After realizing Area 51 is onto her, she zips across the Pacific to Waikiki Beach, China, Africa and exciting places all over the world.

The illustrations, also by Scott, are colorful, pleasing and beautifully drawn. His style blends well with the storyline.

All his books are now autographed and shipped to people’s homes from his website: www.carltonsbooks.com

Bio:

At the age of 33, Carlton Scott was pursuing a second degree in nursing when he had a case of misdiagnosed glaucoma and lost the vision in his left eye. To help deal with the stress of being visually impaired, he would hike in the Rocky Mountains near Denver, Colorado where he lived. He then took off to Southeast Asia, backpacking and venturing through Thailand; Cambodia and Bali, Indonesia to decide what to do with his future.

During this time, he finished his second children’s book, Little Big Wolf, based on his drawings and collection of hiking photos. He published both Grin’s Message and Little Big Wolf in hardcover and sold 2000 of each through Barnes & Noble, Amazon.com, craft shows and street fairs. He then returned to Florida and finished his second degree (a bachelor’s in nursing) and accepted a job at All Children’s Hospital in St. Petersburg, Florida, in the Pediatric ICU.

Today, Carlton travels with his wife, Annie (also a nurse), throughout the United States providing critical care services to hospitals from Alaska to Los Angeles. His newest children’s book, Glamour Girl From The Stars, was published in April, 2010.

Be sure to check the next stop on the Glamour Girl Tour: Joyful Paws!

To see all Carlton Scott's books, visit his Website:
Blog Tour Info:

Mary Cunningham Books
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Sad Days Ahead For The Gulf

2010-06-04T11:22:00.028-04:00

A Brown Pelican is seen on the beach at East Grand Terre Island along the Louisiana coast after being drenched in oil from the Deepwater Horizon oil spill Thursday, June 3, 2010.

I wake up every morning wondering whether the flow of oil is going to slow today. Wondering what the ultimate price is that we'll pay for our oil dependence. Will B. P. eventually figure out how to cap the poison gushing into the Gulf and when (if) they do, will it be business as usual?

I sincerely hope that all the people picketing B. P. and the rage at this environmental disaster will continue until the world and especially this country realizes that we need affordable, clean energy.

Please understand that I'm not blaming B. P. alone, or the government for failing to regulate the industry. I'm blaming all of us. We've sold out for convenience. Need something at the grocery? Gotta run to the bank? I jump in my SUV and think nothing about it. Okay, it's a small SUV and gets pretty good mileage and I try to run all my errands at once so I maximize a tank of gas.

But, I'm afraid we're still years away from realizing the sacrifices we need to make.

I remember when Jimmy Carter was laughed out of office for even suggesting that we needed to make hard choices in stemming our thirst for oil. We were incensed when gas prices in 1978 rose to an average of (gasp!) $.63 a gallon!! But, we got over it and it was "business as usual." We're slowly realizing the price of our indifference more than 3 decades ago.

Not sure what I hope to accomplish with this blog post. Maybe just add my 2 cents to the anger and disgust for the shameful way we're ignoring the facts concerning our fragile world.

Thanks for reading this far! Oh, and in case oil in the Gulf doesn't interest you, try reading this: Arctic Sea Ice At Lowest Point In Thousands Of Years

Read About The Earth Day Network Website Don't be Stupid!

A Crystal-Clear Moment

2010-05-27T11:22:00.040-04:00

I'm sad today that my American Idol favorite, Crystal Bowersox -MamaSox to us in the Idol-Know, lost to Lee DeWyze in the finals. Not that I don't like Lee. I think he's a fine runner-up. I don't think he's the winner.

I mentioned that I'm sad about the outcome. Well, my husband is incensed! You'd think he'd watched American Idol more than...oh, say...ONCE!

He kindly agreed to watch the finals on Tuesday as Lee and Crystal sang 3 songs before the voting and afterwards, declared Crystal the winner. No question. "She's got it," he said.

I stayed up last night to watch the results, but he went upstairs before it was over. The first thing he asked this morning was, "Who won?"

"Lee."

"You're kidding! Really? Crystal lost? It's fixed! Well, that does it. I'll never watch American Idol again! "

When did you ever start watching? I wonder. Maybe it's his way of saying, "I told you that show's a waste of time. See?" I choose, however, to believe a small part of him wanted Crystal to win.

1. Because I was cheering for her.

2. Because she was the best singer.

This might be my last year, too. Without Simon, how could it be the least bit entertaining?

Meanwhile, click on the video below to watch one of my favorite Crystal moments.

Mary Cunningham Books
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Killer Cows Loose in Cynthia's Attic!

2010-05-24T00:05:00.001-04:00

Killer Cows have invaded Cynthia's Attic, courtesy of young adult author, D. M. Anderson.

Welcome, Dave. Word has it you have a book out titled, Killer Cows. How in the world did you come up with a story about killer cows?

Killer Cows is a sci-fi novel which sprang from two different stories. The first one, with the same title, was one of many stories I wrote in high school to gross-out and amuse my friends. The second was an idea I’d carried around most of my life, a what-if story asking what would happen if a teenager was suddenly in possession of technology from another world...in this case, a flying saucer. The book is a cross between realistic fiction and all the sci-fi and killer animal movies I’ve always loved...and still do. It seemed like a good idea to combine these genres, and I wanted to write something that, not only pays homage to my childhood influences, but is a fun read. And the term, killer cows, has always struck me as inherently funny.

What inspired you to write a young adult novel?

After years of trying unsuccessfully to be the next Stephen King, I pretty much threw in the towel and didn’t write anything for about ten years. During that time, I became a middle school teacher, where reading and teaching young adult novels came with the job. I was surprised how good a lot of it really was. I was also surprised how much YA fiction had changed since I was a kid. Today, there are no real boundaries. And, as a teacher, there’s something really cool in seeing a kid take a sudden interest in reading once he or she finds a book or author they like. I think that’s what inspired me the most. It would be really cool to be one of those authors who encourages a kid to read.

How has teaching prepared you for writing?

Working with middle schoolers has definitely changed how I write, because they are an extremely fickle audience. Unlike adults, most will not stick with a story if it doesn’t captivate them from the get-go. When I first decided to write for young adults, I thought it would be easy, but just the opposite is true. I had the misconception that writing for kids meant dumbing-down a story, but what it really means is cutting through the unnecessary prose and getting right to the point. I had to learn to show more and tell less, which isn’t easy. But because of that, I think my writing has improved, becoming more focused and direct.

I totally agree. One of the things I learned from young readers is never talk or write down to them. They'll catch you every time!

For all aspiring writers, will you give a brief description of your process?

It depends on the story, really. For short stories, I tend to wing-it and see what happens. Sometimes something cool comes out of it, sometimes not. For novels, I usually start with the same approach, seeing if I like my characters and the situations I place them in. For me, the character is everything, no matter the plot. And if I like the characters and how they are developing, I’ll loosely outline the rest of the book. Maybe a backwards approach, but it seems to work for me.

I have a love/hate relationship with writing. How about you? What do you love most and what do you dislike most about writing?

Definitely love/hate. What I love most about writing is the process itself, regardless of who reads it. Unlike my younger years, when I wrote to try and sell something, I now try to entertain myself first. I think that’s important since I have a desk drawer full of stories where the only audience has been me. What I hate the most is everything which comes afterwards...editing, revising, querying, trying to sell what I’ve written. It took me longer to place Killer Cows with a publisher than it did the actually write the thing, and I’m going through the same thing with the current book I’m trying to sell.

Can you tell something funny about yourself that people might not know?

Well, if your referring to my writing career, how Killer Cows got published is sort-of amusing. I queried lots of agents and publishers before Echelon Press asked to see the entire novel. Naturally excited, I sent it to them, then heard nothing for nearly a year, even though I kept inquiring about it. During that time, I got increasing angry that they didn’t bother to respond to a novel they requested to read. I started bad-mouthing them on a writer’s forum website I go to, spouting off how unprofessional they were. Then one day I got an email from another writer on that forum, telling me Echelon Press had been trying to find me for months to offer a contract. It turned out I didn’t include my contact info on my submission, so they had no idea how to find me. Still, despite all my trash talk, and the fact it was all my fault, Echelon’s CEO laughed it off and offered me a contract, anyway. I was the butt of a lot of jokes on that writer's forum for quite some time afterwards.

A good lesson for every writer. INCLUDE YOUR CONTACT INFO! LOL!

Finally, what are you working on, now? Anything new in the hopper?
I’m trying to place my second book, Shaken, an action novel inspired by the disaster films I’ve always enjoyed. It’s a book near and dear to my heart, partially because of its concept, but also because two of the main characters are inspired by the real-life relationship between my two daughters (who don’t always get along). I’m also nearly finished with my third novel, The Dark Ride, a YA horror tale inspired by Disneyland, Michael Crichton’s Westworld and Night of the Living Dead. It’s easily the most violent YA story I’ve written, but maybe the best one. After that, I’m hoping to lighten up and write the follow up to Killer Cows.

You're not letting any grass grow under your feet! Congratulations on all your projects. Thanks for visiting Cynthia's Attic, and please stop back again and give us an update!

http://dmanderson.blogspot.com
http://twitter.com/frandavea

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D. M. Cunningham visits Cynthia's Attic!

2010-05-12T00:05:00.008-04:00

Welcome to Cynthia's Attic, Matt. Word has it you're working on children's books. Will you enlighten us?

I am and I have taken ahold of it like an alligator in a death roll (meaning I won't let go!). I have a couple projects in the works because that is how I operate. Right now I just finished the first draft of a MG book called The Pair of Normals: Society for Monster Hunters and Purveyors of the Strange and Unusual. I want it to be a series. I have three other books in the series mapped out already.

The other project I am working on is an MG book for my advance writer's class at ICL (Institute of Children's Literature) called School of Mayhem: The Phoenix Key. It takes place in a school of super villains and my lead doesn't want to be there. These may turn into Illustra-Novellas at some point because I love the novel-graphic novel mash-ups. And I am working on a graphic novel with an artist friend of mine called Eternal Springs. This is more of a YA creepy book, basically Lovecraft for kids. All that makes me tired just thinking about it!

Wow, you ARE busy with fascinating projects! I also happen to know that you're involved in fabulous documentary research. How has that prepared you in your writing career?

I do my best! Research has been a wonderful job to have as a writer. I have learned so many things about so many subjects that it makes my head spin. It's changed my writing in the way I incorporate facts and blend them with fiction. I love dropping a real person in the story, like Tesla, and putting a spin on the facts. I really get a kick out of doing this. And for those who love History it is a bit of wink to them.

You have an interesting career in television, movies, etc. What inspired you to write for children/young adults?

Thank you so much! I have been pretty lucky with a lot of the movies and shows that I have been able to work on. This may sound cliché but since I was a wee little one I have always wanted to tell stories. I would write short stories retelling the Star Wars story or create my own skits that my cousins and I would perform in the basement. Like our own SNL. I took that passion further when I got a Super 8 film camera (dating myself here) and we would shoot little short movies. That lead to wanting to do makeup fx for movies, which I did a lot of. Eventually I worked my way to Hollywood and started really focusing on writing. It was kid scripts. I went through a myriad of managers, agents, sold some stories, wrote more scripts and started to realize that I had no control over anything I was writing. My heart was in these children stories and I really wanted to make them my own, so I decided to take the plunge and follow my bliss about four years ago and I applied to the Institute of Children's Literature, got accepted and have been furiously writing my stories from there. I finally found my calling and what I absolutely love to do.

For all aspiring writers, will you give a brief description of your process?

I love this question because I always want to know the same thing from other writers. My process involves me getting up around 6am to write before my daughter gets up. My wife will get her ready for daycare while I type away and then we load up the car and head out. At night when they are both off to sleep I start up again and go into the witching hours. I jam through a first draft. It usually stinks the place up but I get it done. I loosely outline just to have an A to B goal. I write about 1000-2000 words a day. And I listen to movie scores or heavy metal to inspire me.

I have a love/hate relationship with writing. How about you? What do you love most and what do you dislike most about writing?

Yes, it is one of things that gets into your bloodstream and drives you mad. I love that I can create characters that make me laugh and put them in quirky situations. I love discovering story points that I didn't expect to happen. Which happened to me a lot in Pair of Normals and I was laughing at some of the moments that appeared out of thin air. Most days I am chomping at the bit to get to that keyboard to keep writing. What I hate about it is that some days it is torture to get those words out. Some days it is pure bile. And if I ever miss a day of writing, I feel really guilty and beat myself up mentally about it. Sometimes I can't let it go.

Can you tell something funny on yourself that readers might not know?

I have written and directed a couple of horror films. I get that funny look when I tell people that. How odd you would want to write kids books. I must be a weirdo! But in reality, there are so many great writers out there that do good creepy for the kids and they grew up on monster movies and books like me. Funny side note - I joined a writing critique group and one of my writer buddies knew of my first film and told me how bad he wanted to see it. I was a little stunned.

Finally, tell us how rewarding it is being my "cousin!" LOL!

There is going to be a lot of jealousy amongst your readers and followers if I tell them how fabulous it is to be your "cousin". It's great because you not only inspire me but many others! And I hope that the acorn doesn't fall too far from the literary tree that connects us!

Oh, now you're going to make me blush, Matt. Guess I should explain that we're not real cousins; only in creative spirit. But, I still consider you a most interesting relative!

Thanks, so much, for visiting Cynthia's Attic and all the best in your writing, movie-making and researching!

Read more about Matt:

Literary Asylum Blog

D.M. Cunningham website
Twitter

Mary Cunningham Books
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Side Effects - Amy Goldman Koss

2010-05-08T00:05:00.007-04:00

"Izzy knows her cancer could kill her: but that's no reason to lose her sense of humor."

That's an understatement. Amy Goldman Koss's story about 14-year-old Isabelle, Izzy (Lizard to her brother, Max) Miller is such a humorous read that you almost...almost take her cancer for granted. A lymphoma diagnosis sends Izzy into the unfamiliar world of chemo, endless blood tests, scans and seemingly never-ending vomiting.

She learns quickly after her first treatment that this is going to be one awful ride.

Izzy tries, mightily, to hang on to her sense of humor throughout and to continue her love of art and drawing. You root for her to keep her wonderfully sarcastic, dry wit. But, you know she's losing the battle when her best friend, Kay, no longer gets the humor and Izzy fears that Kay is moving beyond reach.

I tried to be the Izzy Miller I was before, but I couldn't remember how. And it was exhausting to try.

She complained to her pragmatic Aunt Lucy. "But everyone is so incredibly irritating."

"Well, cancer or not, that'll never change," Aunt Lucy laughed. "But, for that, there's always chocolate."

I found myself loving Aunt Lucy at this point!

Written with a deft, unpretentious hand, Side Effects isn't for the squeamish. Amy Goldman Koss mixes the good, the bad and the ugly throughout Izzy's battle to conquer a disease she doesn't quite understand while trying to fight depression and keep her sanity as well-meaning friends and relatives tip-toe around her illness.

The author's ability to create a realistic, but thoroughly entertaining story of a teenager's struggle to get her life back, is well worth picking up a copy of Side Effects. If you know a young person who's fighting some form of cancer, and even if you don't, I highly recommend this book.

Side Effects - Amazon

Visit Amy Goldman Koss's Website for all her books!

Mary Cunningham Books
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It Starts With A Napkin

2010-04-22T07:38:00.016-04:00

It starts with a napkin? Okay, let me explain. For years, my husband and I used paper napkins with every meal. Six paper napkins a day doesn't sound like much, but consider this. How does 2,190 paper napkins sound? 25 years worth? 53,750! (Give or take a napkin or two)

That's why we decided to take a small step and switch to cloth napkins. One little gesture and we've eliminated something from the world trash heap. And, if you're wondering, throwing a few small napkins in a weekly load of laundry adds nothing to our utility bills. We've also switched to select-a-size paper towels but use cloth towels for clean-up whenever possible.

We recycle our grass clippings around trees and shrubs instead of filling plastic bags for the town pick up. Much easier on us and it also saves a lot of plastic trash bags! Even better.

We still have a long way to go. It's not easy to give up on conveniences, but, like us, you can start with the small stuff.

What have you done for Earth Day? Earth Year?

Why not pull out the cloth napkins?

Earth Day Official Website

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Villa Rica Elementary - School Visits

2010-04-15T15:04:00.012-04:00

I recently had the pleasure of visiting Villa Rica Elementary. What a great school! Walking in the front door, school pride is evident. Although it's an older school, right in the downtown area, it's cheery and bright. Students and teachers, and office personnel alike were smiling and laughing. I knew, instantly, this was going to be a great visit.

I had the honor of being the first author visit set up by media instructor, Candace Williams, but I never would've guess because the whole morning was perfect. I was greeted with blueberry bread, muffins, cheese, crackers, fruit and a fresh pot of coffee! Someone must've clued her in that I'm not a morning person.

Screen and computer were ready and waiting for my Power Point Presentations. The 4th and 5th grade classes were fun and engaging, and asked insightful and interesting questions.

Anyhoo, a fantastic time was had by all, especially me!

So, kudos to Villa Rica Elementary and Ms. Candace Williams! Can't wait to go back again next year.

Mary Cunningham Books
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A Mom's View of Stitches

2010-04-05T10:20:00.005-04:00

I've always prided myself on being tough when it comes to blood and guts. I was an interested spectator as a surgeon dug a cyst out of my ring finger. "If you get light-headed, just look away," he'd said. "Nope. I want to see what it looks like," I'd answered, calmly and curiously as he proceeded to stitch up my knuckle.

My husband, on the other hand, can see my leg hanging by a thread after a chainsaw accident (No! This didn't really happen. Just giving an example, here) and carry out life-saving measures, but blood spilling from any part of his body? He's on the ground, passed out cold.

But, back to me. As I mentioned before, I'm usually tough as nails when it comes to blood and injuries. Tough, that is, until it came to my 10-year-old son and his first bike wreck. I heard the crash on our front sidewalk and ran to the door just in time to see him standing on the porch, shock on his face, holding his chin.

I persuaded him to let me look at the injury. His chin was hanging open and the only thing visible was blood and bone. How I didn't pass out right then is a mystery. I rushed him to the doctor, at least I think I did. Fortunately, it was Saturday afternoon, and we arrived just as the office was getting ready to close.

As the doctor led the patient back to the surgical room, I was told several stitches to close a pretty bad wound would be needed — at which time I almost passed out, again, in the empty waiting room. The nurse smiled and said, "Why don't you sit down and wait. It won't be long.''

I imagined all sorts of horrible things and braced myself for screams of pain coming from my son. But, none came. All I heard was a calming voice talking him through the cleaning and sterilization of the injury, and then on to the procedure of putting in the stitches. When all was done, I heard the doctor say, "You're all set to go, John. You've been very brave."

I sighed with relief until he went on to say, "Now, if we can just figure out how to get your mother home."

Don't forget to check out my books and short stories!

Mary Cunningham Books
Cynthia's Attic Blog
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Author, Robyn Hood Black & WOLVES

2010-03-10T10:40:00.005-05:00

Robyn Hood Black with Juno and Luna critiquing her book, WOLVES

I had the honor of facilitating a meeting for the Carrollton Creative Writers Club with guest speaker, Robyn Hood Black.

Robyn is the author of WOLVES (Amazon), a non-fiction, interactive book from Intervisual Books and rhyming rookie reader, Sir Mike (Amazon) from Scholastic Children's Press.

She's also a hugely entertaining, energetic speaker. I first met Robyn through SCBWI - Society of Children's Cook Writers and Illustrators. You just know you're going to like someone when you don't have to keep re-introducing yourself! She's always generous with her time, her advice and her smile.

If you're not familiar with Robyn's books, please visit her website: Robyn Hood Black and don't leave without looking at the tons of great wolf pictures of Luna and Juno, two gray wolves from the Chestachee Wildlife Preserve that Robyn has been fortunate enough to see grow up before her eyes.

photo by Alison Womack Chestatee Wildlife Preserve

Click on the link to see more great pictures of Luna and Juno

Mary Cunningham Books
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Johnny Depp - Mad Hatter - In Cynthia's Attic!

2010-03-05T00:05:00.000-05:00

Ever since I can remember, time travel and "other worlds" have fascinated me. I used to sit in front of my dresser mirror and try to wish my way through it just as Alice in her looking glass. Not sure what I expected to see on the other side, but Johnny Depp as the Mad Hatter, probably wasn't in my thought process back then.

Sir John Tenniel was the original illustrator in Lewis Carroll's book, The Adventures of Alice in Wonderland. So, how do you think J. D. stands up to Carroll's image of The Mad Hatter who was supposedly drawn to resemble an eccentric British inventor and furniture dealer, Theophilus Carter? Many would agree that Depp is also a bit eccentric, so in my mind, he's a perfect fit.

But, I much as I love seeing JD in almost any movies, the jury is still out (IMO) as to whether Tim Burton's version is simply too dark. I love the story, so much, I'll have to wait and see whether my trepidations can be overcome. Chances are good, they will!

But, back to the book. My fascination with all things fantastical led to writing "Cynthia's Attic." A recurring dream I'd had for over 20 years about a mysterious attic, began the process. Once I realized that the dream took place in the home of my childhood friend, Cynthia, the writing began. I kept hoping I'd have the dream again and that magical things would happen to add to my stories, but as with most recurring dreams, once you figure them out, they're gone forever.

That didn't stop my vision, though, of creating other worlds and other times for twelve-year-old best friends, Cynthia and Gus (Her real name is Augusta Lee, but don't call her that unless you want a kick in the shins).

So the next time you're sitting at a mirror, wondering what's on the other side, do what I do. Visualize Johnny Depp!

Watch the Trailer!

Meanwhile, check out Cynthia's Attic Series!

…”a good old fashioned family story, with all the sci-fi perks and jigs to light the imagination of today’s young reader.” Real Reader Reviews

"This wonderfully imaginative tale will delight readers. I wish I had a magic attic!" - Laura Schaefer, author of The Teashop Girls.

Mary Cunningham Books
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Great Summer Read! Iggy the Iguana: Summer League

2010-03-01T11:50:00.020-05:00

What do iguanas named Iggy and Liz, Buddy the bullfrog, a turtle named Snap Shell, Marc the Mouse and Cooper the chameleon have in common? They all love baseball! The follow-up to Iggy the Iguana is a perfect read for 7-10 year-olds. Summer League focuses on normal kid problems in the form of a very different All-Star baseball team.

Iggy faces challenges throughout the summer that all young readers (and older readers!) can relate to, and has to make a very important decision about a whether to keep a secret that could compromise the whole team.

With summer just around the corner, although snow accumulations in he Northeast would contradict that statement, Iggy the Iguana: Summer League, is the perfect read, and comes highly recommended by this reader!

To see a video interview with author, Melissa M. Williams, click here.

Melissa M. Williams has been writing stories since the age of eight years old. Many of her stories were inspired by real-life experiences with childhood pets she owned while growing up in Houston, Texas. After receiving her Bachelor's degree in Psychology, she moved to Dallas, TX to pursue a Master's degree in Professional Counseling. While in graduate school, she finished her first children's book, "Iggy the Iguana", and proceeded to have the book published before the age of twenty-six. Many of the ideas in this book were inspired by Miss Williams' experiences as a substitute teacher for third and fourth grade classes in the city of Dallas.

In addition to writing for children, she is a published songwriter and has co-written for her younger sister’s, Misha, International Albums. Melissa currently lives in Houston, Texas and visits schools through out the entire Texas region, promotion literacy, creativity, and learning for kids. Her Literacy Foundation Read3Zero now offers children the opportunity to be published by her own publishing company, LongTale Publishing.

Iggy the Iguane Website

Read3Zero

Melissa M. Williams website

More on YouTube with Iggy and Melissa Williams

Discover the Magic in Cynthia's Attic - Mary Cunningham Books

Karma and Friendship

2010-02-19T13:37:00.030-05:00

Cheryl Lamb, Cynthia Miles, Mary Bulleit, Oleita Cook

The words, "It's karma," are used frequently and many times in an off-handed, meaningless way. I experienced a circumstance almost 25 years ago that gives true meaning to the phrase.

First, a little backstory:

I took ballet and tap dancing lessons when I was 5-6 with three other friends, Cheryl, Cynthia and Oleita. As I remember, Cheryl and Oleita were pretty good at following our dance teacher's instructions, and held their own at our first and last dance recital. Cynthia and I kinda stumbled behind, trying to follow our friends' footsteps. Pink tu-tus, paper flowers and watering cans tied with bows, were also involved.

Oleita and I would spend time at each other's houses playing with paper dolls, jumping rope, playing hide 'n seek and generally having fun. Then, tragedy struck. Oleita's father died and she moved away. I believe we were about eight. I was too young to truly absorb the loss of my friend, much less understand the abrupt way her life was changed, and we lost touch for decades. But, I never forgot her. When I'd spot old dance recital or birthday party pictures I'd think, "Wonder what happened to Oleita."

Fast forward 30+ years. My Chicago-born husband was in Nashville. He'd contacted a business real estate firm about a building his company was interested in leasing. A young woman realtor met him at the location, but, as luck would have it, the owner of the building was late. They stood around for a few awkward minutes, both wondering how to kill time with a total stranger. Moments away from each going to their respective vehicles to wait for the owner, they spotted an ice cream parlor.

It was over a couple of ice cream cones they began asking questions, as strangers do. Have you lived in Nashville all your life? No? Where did you grow up? Southern Indiana? Strange. My wife grew up in Southern Indiana. One thing led to another until they realized his wife was her childhood friend.

The next trip to Nashville, I went with him and met Oleita for dinner. Our reunion consisted of non-stop talking and laughing at old pictures from our childhood. We corresponded by letter and then e-mail, and met for dinner a couple of times after that - the last being an overnight stay with Oleita and her husband, Orville, on our way north to Louisville. I'm so grateful for those two days.

Each time we were together, we'd laugh about the strange event that led to our reunion and how several circumstances had to fall in place for us to meet again. What if my husband had chosen another realtor from the dozen or so available? What if the owner had been on time? The conversation about hometowns would've never happened. If it hadn't been the middle of summer and just right for an ice cream cone...

Less than two weeks ago, Oleita had a massive stroke. After a valiant struggle, she died Friday evening. If I could talk to her one more time I'd say, "We were meant to dance and laugh together, my friend. If not here, in another life."

It's karma.

Iggy The Iguana - Summer League

2010-02-17T00:05:00.016-05:00

Summer League, the second book in the Iggy the Iguana Series, is packed full of excitement, suspense, and surprises as Iggy and his friends continue their adventures out on the baseball field and under the summer sun. Iggy faces the decision of keeping a secret that should have been told and runs the risks of losing everything. In the midst of overcoming his challenges, Iggy learns a few new things about himself, his friendships start to change, and he discovers that the new guy is keeping a big secret too. Each character in this story has a unique and even humorous personality of their own, making the Iggy the Iguana series enjoyable for all kids to read.

Hi everyone. I'm Gus, the athletic (ahem) half of the time-traveling, Cynthia's Attic duo. I'm so excited to have Iggy Iguana as my guest today because he loves baseball just like I do! I tried to talk Cynthia into joining me, but she was busy doing her nails, and, anyway, baseball isn't her favorite subject.

Welcome Iggy (and Melissa)! Do you have time to answer some questions that I'm sure our readers want to know? Like, why do you love baseball so much, Iggy?

Hi Gus! It’s great to meet you. Well, all of my favorite memories include baseball … like the time my Dad took me to my first Chicago Cubs game at Wriggly Field. My dad and I have also been playing catch together since I could pick up a ball. I’ve been playing pitcher for a few years now in little league.

Cynthia and I play with our neighborhood gang and we've known each other since, forever! Tell us about some of the members of your team. How did you meet?

I met Snap Shell, my catcher and my best friend, at the beginning of fourth grade. He’s a turtle and naturally a great catcher! He would do anything for me on and off the field. Buddy the Bullfrog and Kit Kat go to my school too. Buddy is from New York and a great high hopper on 1st base. Cooper the Chameleon and I have known each other for years, because we used to be on the same team many years ago before he moved to my new team, the Stars. There is a lot of competition between the two of us because he used to play pitcher too … until he hurt his arm. I just met Marc the Mouse, he moved here from Spain and is the best Short Stop ever! He’s super fast. He is really shy though, so I try to help him make new friends on the team.

Cynthia is my best friend, so tell me...do you have a best friend? Liz? or maybe, Snap? I promise not to tell the others!

It’s so hard to pick one, because Liz and Snap are both of my best friends, but in different ways. Actually Liz was my girl friend in 4th grade, but we kinda broke up.

Snap helped me get through everything so we could all become friends again. Snap is like a brother to me now … I only want the best for him and would do anything for him, because he has always been there for me. He’s a great advice giver.

Does the fact that your dad was a coach influence your love of the sport?

Definitely! My dad has always been an athlete and had a passion for baseball. It’s something we can do together. I look up to my dad so much. He just won first place at the Houston Marathon.

And, now a couple of questions for Melissa:

How did you choose Iggy the Iguana as the main character for your books?

The idea for Iggy and all of the characters came from many of my real life pets I had as a kid. Iggy was my favorite pet of them all! I used to spend so much time with him, and I basically treated him like a human. He wore clothes, lived on top of my bookshelf, and we would play outside everyday after school. He loved laying out in the sun! I even threw him birthday parties … and he got to sleep on my bed. He had his own little pillow, and I would cover him up with a blanket so he wouldn’t get cold. He usually had to sleep on a heating pad too.

I was also very creative as a kiddo, so I used to write the Iggy the Iguana story when I was eight years old. Liz, Snap Shell, and all the gang were supporting characters.

Do you have a planned number of books for the series?

I want to have at least four in the Iggy Series. I am also staring the spin off series called Turtle Town, and Snap is the main character. The new books take place in different beach towns. The first one will take place in Cardiff Beach near San Diego, California. I’m taking another two-week trip out to California to write on location. I am completely recreating the town in my story to resemble the real Cardiff Beach. Maybe the next book should take place in Hawaii, right?!

I love the diversity the characters in your books advance. Was there someone or something in particular that influenced your writing the series?

Definitely my counseling and psychology background gave me a need to implant acceptance and diversity into the storyline, and not just with cultural differences, but also with personality, health, age, and interests. I wanted everyone to have at least one character that they really could relate to. The characters needed to be real and go through real life situations that kids may experience at that age. I also wanted the readers to experience empathetic understanding toward the characters who experienced certain situations for the first time.

If you could bring one character to life, which one would it be?

Iggy! He is so cute. I love iguanas and lizards. I think they are just he cutest animals in the world!

Finally, tell your readers something funny about yourself that they may not know.

I used to make up this ridiculous voice for my pet Iggy when I was a kid, and I would pretend that he could talk. Actually, I had a voice for Molly, Iggy’s little sister, too. I created a pretend radio talk show for them, and they would interview different animals on the show. More made up voices! I was very imaginative and goofy. It helped when I landed my first voice over gig for a Japanese Anime Cartoon about eight years ago. Who knew the silly things I did as a kid would come back to help me as an adult!

Melissa M. Williams has been writing stories since the age of eight years old. Many of her stories were inspired by real-life experiences with childhood pets she owned while growing up in Houston, Texas. After receiving her Bachelor's degree in Psychology, she moved to Dallas, TX to pursue a Master's degree
in Professional Counseling. While in graduate school, she finished her first children's book, "Iggy the Iguana", and proceeded to have the book published before the age of twenty-six. Many of the ideas in this book were inspired by Miss Williams' experiences as a substitute teacher for third and fourth grade classes in the city of Dallas. In addition to writing for children, she is a published songwriter and has co-written for her younger sister’s, Misha, International Albums. Melissa currently lives in Houston, Texas and visits schools through out the entire Texas region, promotion literacy, creativity, and learning for kids. Her Literacy Foundation Read3Zero now offers children the opportunity to be published by her own publishing company, LongTale Publishing.

Iggy the Iguane Website

Read3Zero

Melissa M. Williams website

More on YouTube with Iggy and Melissa Williams

Next Iggy Blog Tour Stop - Thursday February 18 – Dana Smith (The Book Maven) shares her interview with Melissa M Williams to discuss how she promotes Iggy.

Be the most active visitor during the tour for a chance to win this Iggy Collection! Complete Iggy Blog Tour Schedule

Discover the Magic in Cynthia's Attic - Mary Cunningham Books

Family - Genealogy in Cynthia's Attic

2010-02-09T14:41:00.025-05:00

For someone whose family has been traced back to the late 1300s, genealogy led, quite naturally, to my time travel series, Cynthia's Attic.

Wishing I could travel back in time to find out exactly what happened to my great-great-grandfather, Augustus Bulleit (Boilliat), on his ill-fated trip to New Orleans in 1860, or talk to my great-grandfather about his traveling music business, are just two stories that evolved from the series.

Curse of the Bayou is loosely based on the disappearance of Augustus during the time he took a load of produce down the Mississippi River to New Orleans. It's widely believed he was murdered for the contents and his boat, but he was never found. Being the first in his family to come to America, his death is particularly distressing because information about his French roots apparently died with him.

Great Grandpa Charles, above, is a different story (The Magic Medallion). He started a music business (Conrad's of Corydon) around 1888 and traveled throughout several counties with his horse and buggy selling musical instruments. He was even known to cart around an organ on occasion.

Many more ancestors are portrayed in my books. This is my way of making up for the fact that, when I was young I didn't ask my grandparents questions about their parents and grandparents; something I'd love to do today. Instead, I've sent Cynthia and Gus back in time to have adventures and solve mysteries their ancestors.

It's not perfect, and I'd give almost anything to be able to go back in time. I'd listen for hours and hours to tales about my grandfather's childhood, or my great-grandfather's joy at spreading the sound of music all over Southern Indiana. And maybe, just maybe I could talk Augustus out of taking that ill-fated journey down the Mississippi.

Cynthia had an attic. Not just an ordinary attic. Cynthia’s attic was magic.

Cynthia and I came into the world just three months apart. We grew up on the same quiet, sycamore-lined street, our friendship as close as our houses. Fifty years earlier, our grandmothers were best friends. However, we didn’t realize the extent of their friendship until after our experience in Cynthia’s attic. This is the story of one of our great adventures…the way I remember it.

"This wonderfully imaginative tale will delight readers. I wish I had a magic attic!" - Laura Schaefer, author of The Teashop Girls.

The award-winning series, "Cynthia's Attic" released by Quake (Echelon Imprint)! Buy all four books on Amazon or Echelon Press

Chocolate Cake In A Mug? Who Knew??

2010-01-27T00:05:00.005-05:00

I just discovered - IT'S CHOCOLATE CAKE DAY!!

So, I'm re-posting this fabulous recipe!

As the ultimate chocolaholic, I was skeptical. Chocolate cake in a mug? In the microwave? in 5 minutes?? Might be barely edible, but that's all.

I had all the ingredients, so why not give it a try? With about 5 minutes prep time, I popped the first mug in the microwave for 2 minutes.

After letting it cool for 10 minutes (believe me, this was hard because it smelled heavenly) I took a skeptical bite. Delicious! Amazingly delicious! How could something this easy be so good!

There are several recipes for Chocolate Mug Cake, but here's the one I spotted in the September edition of Good Housekeeping.

Ingredients:

2 tablespoons flour (I used self-rising. Some recipes call for cake flour)

3 tablespoons sugar

2 tablespoons unsweetened cocoa (Not Dutch processed, if possible)

1 large egg

2 tablespoons milk

2 tablespoons vegetable oil

2 tablespoons chocolate chips

small splash of vanilla extract

Preparation:

Add dry ingredients to mug and mix well. Add egg and mix thoroughly. Pour in milk and oil and mix well. Add chocolate chips and vanilla extract and...you got it...mix well.

Microwave on high for 2 minutes. The cake may rise over the top of the mug (I used over-size coffee mug), but don't be alarmed! Allow to cool and tip onto plate if desired. (Hubby added vanilla ice cream to his)

Please let me know how you like it!

And, be sure to visit Janet Rudolphs's Dying For Chocolate Blog

for more great chocolate recipes!

Mary

Mary Cunningham Books

* (publisher has issued a challenge! First author to sell five books on Amazon wins a prize! Tell you friends!) Buy Cynthia's Attic on Amazon!

Kids Say...

2010-01-14T00:05:00.000-05:00

I thought we needed something funny this morning. These should make you smile.

TEACHER: Maria, go to the map and find North America.
MARIA: Here it is.
TEACHER: Correct. Now class, who discovered America?
CLASS: Maria.

TEACHER: John, why are you doing your math multiplication on the floor?
JOHN: You told me to do it without using tables.

TEACHER: Glenn, how do you spell 'crocodile?'
GLENN: K-R-O-K-O-D-I-A-L'
TEACHER: No, that's wrong
GLENN: Maybe it is wrong, but you asked me how I spell it.

TEACHER: Donald, what is the chemical formula for water?
DONALD: H I J K L M N O.
TEACHER: What are you talking about?
DONALD: Yesterday you said it's H to O.

TEACHER: Glen, why do you always get so dirty?
GLEN: Well, I'm a lot closer to the ground than you are.

TEACHER: Millie, give me a sentence starting with 'I.'
MILLIE: I is..
TEACHER: No, Millie..... Always say, 'I am.'
MILLIE: All right... 'I am the ninth letter of the alphabet.'

TEACHER: Now, Simon, tell me frankly, do you say prayers before eating?
SIMON: No sir, I don't have to, my Mom is a good cook.

TEACHER: Winnie, name one important thing that we didn't have ten years ago.
WINNIE: Me! (This kid has no self-esteem problems!)

What's your favorite kids joke? Please post!

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Magic In Cynthia's Attic

2010-01-05T16:01:00.014-05:00

Do You Believe In Magic?

My first encounter with magic came to a soggy ending. I was around six-year-old, attending my first (and only) magic show. My friend, Cynthia and I got front row seats for the afternoon performance in our school auditorium. Our mothers were seated behind us.

I remember nothing about the show except for the final trick. Mr. Magic would pull a rabbit out of his top hat using nothing but a magic wand and – oh, and a volunteer from the audience. "Me! Me! Oh, please, pick me!" And, wonder of wonders...he did!

I'm not sure when my inhibition disappeared over the years, but in the first ten, I had no problem performing; ballet recitals, piano recitals, singing; magic shows. I was happy on center stage. But, back to the magic show. I performed my task – waving the wand over the black top hat –perfectly. Abracadabra... the magician pulled a beautiful white bunny out of his hat and placed it in my arms!

I grinned and searched out my mother in the audience. I'm not sure which was whiter; the bunny or Mom's face. I'm guessing her face. Needless to say, I was thrilled, and sat for the remaining few minutes of the show petting this adorable, silky rabbit. We didn't have a pet at that time, so this was perfect. He (or she) would sleep with me, visit my friends, and what a hit I'd be during show-and-tell at school!

I could tell that Cynthia was just a touch envious until...Fluffy (I've since named him Fluffy) piddled all over my lap. Ewww! I'd been 5 seconds away from letting her hold him. Funny how the excitement and glamour dissipated with my soaked dress.

I remember very little else about Fluffy. He went to a farm, I was told, on which he would live to a ripe old age. I imagined him scampering through Mr. Mcgregor's Garden, happily feasting on carrots and lettuce leaves; watering the ground behind him.

Mary Cunningham Books

I'm proud to announce the release of Book Four in the award-winning series, "Cynthia's Attic" was released by Quake (Echelon Imprint) DEC 1 2009! Buy on Amazon or from Echelon Press

Mayra Calvani and Humberto, the Bookworm Hamster

2009-12-18T00:05:00.021-05:00

Welcome to Cynthia's Attic, Mayra! Can you tell our readers a little bit about author, Mayra Calvani?

I fell in love with writing fiction when I was about 12 and have been writing stories ever since. Initially, I wrote mystery, supernatural and literary stories, but over the years I’ve also dabbled into parody/satire, nonfiction, women’s fiction and now children’s books. Like the hamster in my book, I’m a consummate bookworm. I also love sharing my ideas about books and writing reviews. When I’m not reading or writing, you’ll find me watching a good romantic comedy on DVD, practicing the violin, walking my dog, experimenting with new recipes in the kitchen, and spending time with my family. I also love chatting with my mom on the phone every night. At 42, I’m still a mama’s girl. I was born in San Juan but now live in Belgium.

A little bird, or, maybe a little bookworm said that you have a new children's release. Please tell us about your latest book.

I wanted to write a story about a bookworm mouse or hamster who lives his life through his books. That’s how the idea for Humberto the Bookworm Hamster came about. I kept seeing Humberto in my mind, with his nose stuck in a book and always too busy to socialize or make any friends. I kept hearing his voice, “I don’t have time for friends. I’m too busy reading!” But then something bad happens that serves as a catalyst and he realizes that books are even better when you get to share them with friends. I sympathize with Humberto because my life is mostly a solitary one because of so much reading and writing. I love what I do and never feel lonely, but every now and then I feel the need to socialize and be with friends. You know the phrase, ‘No man’s an island.’ I thought the idea of a little bookworm hamster surrounded by books would be cute. Kit Grady, the illustrator, captured his essence perfectly. I wanted him to look cute but also dignified, and with an aura of vulnerability about him.

As authors, we don't like to preach in our books, but do your stories usually have a moral?

I usually don’t think of a lesson or moral beforehand. I just think of a character and a story, or at least a premise or a general idea for a story, and then the lesson somehow develops naturally from it as I write it. So it’s not a conscious, pre-planned decision. A lot of my story ideas come from real life. I want the story to be fun and interesting for children. That always comes first. It’s intriguing how the underlying moral often appears at the end.

It sounds like we agree. "Write what you know," and let the rest happen naturally.

Was there one event that led you into writing? Who has inspired you the most?

When I was eleven years old, a relative gave me a book that, I believe, changed the course of my life. It was a novel by Agatha Christie. The relative, who was an old aunt, had the whole collection translated into Spanish and by the end of the year I had read them all. Before that moment, I had never been an avid reader. I never read for pleasure. I never read picture books or middle-grade or YA novels. I didn’t grow up with any of my parents reading to me at night. My love for books first started with that Agatha Christie book. So as a kid, I went straight into reading books for adults.

I once read that a kid needs One special book that will open her appetite for literature, and that is so true. From Christie, I went straight into Conan Doyle and Poe, then to a lot of other stuff.

So I can say it was Agatha Christie who led me into reading and writing.

You're such a prolific writer, reviewer, and lover of animals, as evidenced by your Pets and Authors Blog, but what do you consider your proudest writing achievement?

When my nonfiction book, The Slippery Art of Book Reviewing, won a ForeWord Best Book of the Year Award and became required reading at several colleges and universities. It was a great feeling of validation.

I know this questions is overused, but do you have any advice for aspiring authors?

If you want to become an author, don’t let anyone else tell you otherwise. Do everything you have to do to make your dream a reality. Read books about the craft, join a critique group, do a writing course. Above all, write as often as possible. The more you write, the easier and better it will become. Be persistent, no matter how many rejection letters you get in the beginning.

I believe our first contact was through Mayra's Secret Bookcase. What made you decide to create this wonderful site?

Everybody had a blog so I wanted one too. LOL

No, really. I guess for three reasons: to promote my work, the work of other authors, and to share my views about books with readers. I post a lot of reviews and author interviews on my blogs. I love to feature new books and authors. If any of your readers would like to be a guest on my blog, they can get in touch with me at mayra.calvani AT gmail.com.

Please tell us where readers can find your children's books.

My children’s books are available from Guardian Angel Publishing and from all online retailers like Amazon and B&N. They’re also available from brick and mortar bookstores.

Thanks, Mayra. You're welcome in Cynthia's Attic anytime!

Mayra's Children's Books

Mayra's Secret Bookcase
Mayra's Secret Bookcase Blog

Pets and Authors Blog

We Have Winners! - Christmas With Daisy

2009-12-17T07:37:00.009-05:00

Thanks to all who participated on "The Magician's Castle" blog tour!

As promised I've chosen 3 winners of "Christmas With Daisy," my new Cynthia's Attic short story!

Cynde Hammond

Cheryl

Beverly

Pat Carleson

Please e-mail me to receive your PDF download.

marycunningham 1 at bellsouth dot net

Thanks, and Merry Christmas to everyone!

(If you didn't win, but still want to read "Christmas With Daisy," you can purchase from Echelon Press!)

Buy The Magician's Castle today!

The Magician's Castle - Blog Tour!

2009-12-01T00:05:00.029-05:00

To celebrate the release of "The Magician's Castle," (Quake/Echelon Press, DEC 1, 2009), I'm guest blogging DEC 7-17 on some super blogs! Stop by each blog and leave a comment. A winner will be chosen on each blog stop to receive a copy of the "Cynthia's Attic" short story, "Christmas With Daisy!" So, be sure to make a comment!

DEC 7 - Mayra Calvani - Interview - Blog Critics

DEC 8 - Morgan Mandel - Double M's take on Books, Blogs, Dogs, Networking and Live - "Family and Cynthia's Attic"

DEC 9 - Beth Solheim - Mysteries and Chit Chat Blogspot "Through the Looking Glass in Cynthia's Attic"

DEC 10 - Barbara Techel -Frankie the Walk 'N Roll Dog Blog - "Ghost Dogs"

DEC 11 - Laura Schaefer - The Teashop Girls blog - "Friendship in Cynthia's Attic." *

DEC 12 - Regan Black - Regan's Realm Blog - "For the Love of Softball"

DEC 13 - Bookland Heights - "The Magician's Castle!"

DEC 14 - Cheryl Malindrinos - Interview - Children's and Teens Book Connection

DEC 15 - Pop Syndicate - One Author's View on Series Writing

DEC 16 - Alyssa Montgomery - Alyssa's Area - Interview

DEC 17 - Christine Verstraete - First graphs - Candid Canine Blog

Buy "Cynthia's Attic: The Magician's Castle" on Amazon - Today!

Watch the Video!

Cartoons and Tweety Bird

2009-11-21T07:31:00.004-05:00

From the Road Runner, Chip 'N Dale, Foghorn Leghorn, Snagglepuss, Quick Draw McGraw, Sylvester and Tweety Bird (Who can forget Granny?), Rocky & Bulwinkle foiling Boris and Natasha at every turn, to Underdog. Who doesn't love the old Saturday Morning Cartoons?

Use your imagination when reading these famous Foghorn Leghorn phrases:

"Fortunately I always carry a spare set of feathers." or the famous, "Now looka I say looka here." "Go, I say go away boy, you bother me." Can't you just hear him? I never got tired of hearing his western twang.

But, as much as I loved Chip 'N Dale, Bulwinkle and Underdog, my alltime favorite cartoon character was Tweety - aka, Tweety Bird, Tweety Pie - who appeared in 48 cartoons in the Golden Age of Cartoons.

Tweety is, for the most part, a good-natured character happily spending life in his cage or a nest. That is until Sylvester starts slinking around, threatening him, he can become downright devious. And, if Tweety fails to stop his arch-enemy, then it's Granny to the rescue - the little old, bun and bustle-wearing spinster whose weapon-of-choice is an umbrella.

In doing research for this blog post, I tried to pull up current favorite Saturday cartoons and couldn't find any! Are there good cartoons out there? Please, somebody clue me in. Who is the new Tweety Bird, or Mighty Mouse, or Underdog?

Leave a comment with your favorite! Meanwhile, enjoy this stroll down memory lane.

Meanwhile, check out Saturday Morning Cartoons DVD from the 1960s on Amazon

Mary Cunningham is the author of the award-winning, 'Tween series, "Cynthia's Attic," co-author of the women's humor/lifestyle book, "WOOF: Women Only Over Fifty," and has several published short stories, including Ghost Light available on Kindle, and new release, Cynthia's Attic: Christmas Daisy. Pre-order - Echelon Press

All books available on Amazon
Directly from the publisher Echelon Press
Download on Fictionwise
or visit my website: Mary Cunningham Books