Here's your last teaser for Reality Natalie, released tomorrow!!
Teaser #3:
“Drum roll, please!” Chloe said. The entire audience buzzed.
I sucked in my breath. Please, please let me be the next Kidz Konnection guest talk show host! I know I would do the best job EVER. Maybe better than Oprah (that’s a very big maybe, though). I promise I will be funny and very nice to all guests.
Allie took a bright red envelope from Chloe. She looked up and smiled at the audience.
I will try not to trip or air burp on TV. And with enough practice, my Fake Shakes will disappear, poof!
Like magic.
She slid her finger through the top of the envelope.
“And the winner is....”
Closing my eyes and wrapping my fingers over my acorn necklace, I sent up a silent prayer, hoping the Talk Show Goddesses had all ears open.
Tuesday, October 14, 2014
*Reality Natalie* Teaser #2
Tomorrow is the BIG DAY!! Reality Natalie will FINALLY be released! Both eBook and print will be available to order!
Teaser #2:
“I have an announcement to make,” I said loudly. “You’ve decided to become the next president?” Dad piped up, walking back into the room. “I always thought President Greyson had a nice ring to it.”
“Actually no. But personally, I think my news is just as cool, if not better.” I nodded for emphasis.
Mom shooed Chase and Sydney toward the stairs. “Go put your clothes in the hamper. I’ll be up in a second to give you guys a bath.”
“Me first!” Sydney squealed, running after Chase. With the twins finally gone, I cleared my throat and took a deep breath. “I have decided to try out to become a guest talk show host.”
“Have you?” Dad asked. I pulled out the announcement from the Kidz Konnection website I had printed off earlier. “Remember? Channel 10 is holding a contest to find a Kidz Konnection guest host.”
Mom adjusted her glasses and looked over Dad’s shoulder, her lips slightly moving as she skimmed the article. She raised her eyebrows the way she does whenever she is about to say absolutely not. I took a deep breath and cracked my knuckles. Out of the corner of my eye I saw the microwave clock tick over to 6:58.
6:59.
“Well,” Dad said after what felt like an eternity.
“Hmm,” Mom said.
These were not encouraging sounds. The last time my parents said back-to-back words of “well” and “hmm”, I was forced to keep an eye on Chase and Sydney for an entire afternoon while Mom watched “The Sound of Music” in the family room and Dad went golfing.
Every time a song came on, Mom would sing at the top of her lungs. If the “hills came alive” once more, I was going to puke. I drummed my fingers on the table, glancing at Mom and Dad as they perused the piece of paper. Maybe if I stared long and hard enough, I could somehow use mind control to force them to say “yes”.
But, mind control is not one of my talents.
Teaser #2:
“I have an announcement to make,” I said loudly. “You’ve decided to become the next president?” Dad piped up, walking back into the room. “I always thought President Greyson had a nice ring to it.”
“Actually no. But personally, I think my news is just as cool, if not better.” I nodded for emphasis.
Mom shooed Chase and Sydney toward the stairs. “Go put your clothes in the hamper. I’ll be up in a second to give you guys a bath.”
“Me first!” Sydney squealed, running after Chase. With the twins finally gone, I cleared my throat and took a deep breath. “I have decided to try out to become a guest talk show host.”
“Have you?” Dad asked. I pulled out the announcement from the Kidz Konnection website I had printed off earlier. “Remember? Channel 10 is holding a contest to find a Kidz Konnection guest host.”
Mom adjusted her glasses and looked over Dad’s shoulder, her lips slightly moving as she skimmed the article. She raised her eyebrows the way she does whenever she is about to say absolutely not. I took a deep breath and cracked my knuckles. Out of the corner of my eye I saw the microwave clock tick over to 6:58.
6:59.
“Well,” Dad said after what felt like an eternity.
“Hmm,” Mom said.
These were not encouraging sounds. The last time my parents said back-to-back words of “well” and “hmm”, I was forced to keep an eye on Chase and Sydney for an entire afternoon while Mom watched “The Sound of Music” in the family room and Dad went golfing.
Every time a song came on, Mom would sing at the top of her lungs. If the “hills came alive” once more, I was going to puke. I drummed my fingers on the table, glancing at Mom and Dad as they perused the piece of paper. Maybe if I stared long and hard enough, I could somehow use mind control to force them to say “yes”.
But, mind control is not one of my talents.
Wednesday, October 8, 2014
*Reality Natalie* Teaser #1
As promised, several teasers of my upcoming middle grade novel, Reality Natalie, will be featured on my blog. I will not be announcing these days, so please make sure to come back and check for more!
Also, be sure to check out www.katie-sparks.com/in-a-nat-shell.html for posts from Natalie herself!!
Teaser #1:
Also, be sure to check out www.katie-sparks.com/in-a-nat-shell.html for posts from Natalie herself!!
Teaser #1:
3:57.
If I didn’t hurry, it would start. Without me.
My legs burned and cramped as I sped up. I winced in pain.
Don’t slow down. Bursting through the front door, I dropped my backpack and
sweater to the floor. I paused for a millisecond as I passed the kitchen.
No time for a snack. I’d rather starve than miss this surprise
announcement. I half-sprinted/half-hobbled through the hallway and into the
family room.
“HeyMomHeyDadSchoolWasGreatThanks,” I said in one big rush. I
grabbed the remote and clicked the ON button. The TV screen lit up before me.
There they were.
REALITY NATALIE is being published!
Reality Natalie, my middle grade novel, is FINALLY being published! I am excited and proud to announce that on October 15, 2014, Natalie Greyson and her quest to become the next guest host on her favorite kids show, Kidz Konnection, will finally become a reality!
Synopsis: CAMERAS ROLLING...ACTION! The most popular kid's TV show, Kidz Konnection, decides to hold auditions for a guest host spot, and the show's BIGGEST fan decides to audition.
[Cue Natalie Greyson]
Eleven-year-old Natalie is determined to overcome her habit of turning into a tongue-tied, air ball burping, runny-nose disaster whenever something embarrassing happens in front of an audience so she can audition for the coveted role. As the show’s biggest fan, no one could possibly deserve it more than her. Except a giant obstacle stands in her way: her parents, who deny her permission, think she is too young to be on TV. To make matters even worse, Natalie's naturally talented best friend, Kailyn, decides to audition too, and will stop at nothing to win – like lying during a practice session and tearing up their friendship pact.
With their friendship suddenly in question, Natalie turns to her blog, In A “Nat” Shell, to vent her frustrations about Kailyn's spiteful actions, but Natalie’s emotional outpouring and lies only creates more anxiety for herself. With the stakes high, Natalie goes against her parent’s wishes and decides to audition, but Kailyn has her own secret plan to be Number One, even if it means doing so at the expense of her best friend. Can Natalie find a way out of the drama and into the spotlight? Or will the competitive pressure cause her to lose her ultimate dream along with her best friend?
Want to add Reality Natalie to your collection? Pre-order your Kindle copy now! Print and all eBook formats available on October 15, 2014.
Publisher: Firedrake Books, LLC
Here's the cover of the upcoming novel:
Synopsis: CAMERAS ROLLING...ACTION! The most popular kid's TV show, Kidz Konnection, decides to hold auditions for a guest host spot, and the show's BIGGEST fan decides to audition.
[Cue Natalie Greyson]
Eleven-year-old Natalie is determined to overcome her habit of turning into a tongue-tied, air ball burping, runny-nose disaster whenever something embarrassing happens in front of an audience so she can audition for the coveted role. As the show’s biggest fan, no one could possibly deserve it more than her. Except a giant obstacle stands in her way: her parents, who deny her permission, think she is too young to be on TV. To make matters even worse, Natalie's naturally talented best friend, Kailyn, decides to audition too, and will stop at nothing to win – like lying during a practice session and tearing up their friendship pact.
With their friendship suddenly in question, Natalie turns to her blog, In A “Nat” Shell, to vent her frustrations about Kailyn's spiteful actions, but Natalie’s emotional outpouring and lies only creates more anxiety for herself. With the stakes high, Natalie goes against her parent’s wishes and decides to audition, but Kailyn has her own secret plan to be Number One, even if it means doing so at the expense of her best friend. Can Natalie find a way out of the drama and into the spotlight? Or will the competitive pressure cause her to lose her ultimate dream along with her best friend?
Want to add Reality Natalie to your collection? Pre-order your Kindle copy now! Print and all eBook formats available on October 15, 2014.
Publisher: Firedrake Books, LLC
Friday, August 15, 2014
Review: One Smart Cookie by Kym Brunner
One Smart Cookie
By Kym Brunner
Author Kym Brunner's new YA book, Once Smart Cookie, is a refreshing, diverse take on the typical contemporary teenage love story filling bookshelves today. Sixteen-year-old Sophie Dumbrowski pulls readers in immediately with her relatable and often very humorous personality and outlook on life. Her situation consisting of no boyfriend and a best friend whose focus is solely on her new man = one sizzle less summer.
In Sophie's eyes, she can't take the heat anymore -- and decides to get out of the kitchen. Er, bakery, that is. Living above her mother-owned pastry and coffee shop is just the icing on top of the kolacky. In hopes to appease her spirit-conjuring grandmother and hopefully snap a boyfriend, Sophie makes a deal with the love-seeking spirit, Dola. But when she encounters two boys in one day, Sophie is left to wonder if her luck is finally about to change or if Dola's magic is in full effect. With Gio, a suave, Italian gentleman and Nick, a sexy, polish (!) bad boy, how will Sophie choose?!
Sophie's use of profanity, sexual reflection and emotional mindset seemed spot on for a female teenager of today. In a world when technology dominates every teenager's life, Brunner made sure to weave in just the right amount of text messaging without it seeming contrived at all. She's a bit on the klutzy side, but any girl who has been in the same situation as Sophie will find her perfectly endearing! Adding Busia, a hardworking, yet loving grandmother and Sophie's scantily dressed mother, adds even more flavor to the story, sure to incite much laughter.
As the summer progresses and Sophie learns to like both guys for different reasons, she is left wondering which path is right. Should she stick with Gio, a sweet guy who is more her type, or stay open minded and continue to see adventurous Nick? Will Dola figure it out for her or is it all up to Sophie?
Make the decision and pick up this book and you'll be, well, one smart cookie!
Find more information on Kym Brunner!
Monday, November 11, 2013
Day Eleven of NaNoWriMo
Guilty as charged! I was not able to write the past few days, however, I was able to get some more brainstorming and research in, including a mapped out timeline of each chapter, the plot points and any inciting incidents.
I'm continuing to read middle grade novels (one in particular that contains pranks in the book too!) in order to submerge myself in the middle grade novel tone of a male protagonist. Since my first novel is from the viewpoint of an 11-year-old girl, switching gears the second time around has proven to be quite a challenge. But I will admit, I am absolutely LOVING my new story and where it is going!
I am thrilled that the motivation NaNoWriMo provides has been so successful for me these past few days, and cannot wait to see what my novel becomes by the end of the month. I'm even more excited for you all to see it -- one day!
After 540 words, the total is now up to 6,028!
Today's excerpt: "They raised their long green bony hands and pointed their sharp fingernails at me. I tried to stop and turn around but my back felt as if it were up against a wall, pushing me forward, the heels of my gym shoes screeching along the floor tile as the hallway got smaller and smaller. The sickly stench of burning rubber filled my nostrils..."
Best writing wishes to all!
I'm continuing to read middle grade novels (one in particular that contains pranks in the book too!) in order to submerge myself in the middle grade novel tone of a male protagonist. Since my first novel is from the viewpoint of an 11-year-old girl, switching gears the second time around has proven to be quite a challenge. But I will admit, I am absolutely LOVING my new story and where it is going!
I am thrilled that the motivation NaNoWriMo provides has been so successful for me these past few days, and cannot wait to see what my novel becomes by the end of the month. I'm even more excited for you all to see it -- one day!
After 540 words, the total is now up to 6,028!
Today's excerpt: "They raised their long green bony hands and pointed their sharp fingernails at me. I tried to stop and turn around but my back felt as if it were up against a wall, pushing me forward, the heels of my gym shoes screeching along the floor tile as the hallway got smaller and smaller. The sickly stench of burning rubber filled my nostrils..."
Best writing wishes to all!
Tuesday, November 5, 2013
Day Five of NaNoWriMo
After such an exciting win for the Chicago Bears against the Green Bay Packers last night, my adrenaline has been running ever since! Day Five of NaNoWriMo picked up after an intense ending to Chapter 3. Chapter 4 begins with some awkwardness and self-doubt. Friendship lines are blurred and morality is questioned.
Here's today's excerpt: I leaned over and picked it up. My fingers burned as the temptation to rip it open coursed through my hand. I coughed loudly and shoved my arm in Ty's direction. "Here, I, uh, I think you dropped this."
An addition of 627 words for Day Five brings the grand total thus far to 5,491.
Please share some of your favorite, exciting or thought-provoking excerpts from your NaNoWriMo works in progress!
Looking forward to hearing everyone's personal journeys!
Here's today's excerpt: I leaned over and picked it up. My fingers burned as the temptation to rip it open coursed through my hand. I coughed loudly and shoved my arm in Ty's direction. "Here, I, uh, I think you dropped this."
An addition of 627 words for Day Five brings the grand total thus far to 5,491.
Please share some of your favorite, exciting or thought-provoking excerpts from your NaNoWriMo works in progress!
Looking forward to hearing everyone's personal journeys!
Monday, November 4, 2013
Day Four of NaNoWriMo
I'm thrilled to say that Day Four of NaNoWriMo was just as successful as the last three days. I completed Chapter 3 and threw a few wrenches into the mix for my main character. Can't make it easy for him, can I?! The tension is building and the plot is thickening. Concluding the chapter led to an additional 697 words for a total so far of 4,855.
Today's excerpt: Rich stared at me. "Oh. Did I forget to mention that each prank has a catch?" He paused. "Flip it over."
A sharp chill crawled down my spine as I read the words on the back of my card.
Until tomorrow!
OH, and Go Bears!! :)
Today's excerpt: Rich stared at me. "Oh. Did I forget to mention that each prank has a catch?" He paused. "Flip it over."
A sharp chill crawled down my spine as I read the words on the back of my card.
Until tomorrow!
OH, and Go Bears!! :)
Sunday, November 3, 2013
Day Three of NaNoWriMo
Day Three of NaNoWriMo began with the sun shining; its rays streaming into my room. It was a beautiful fall morning in November. After several days of clouds, rain and cold weather, it was incredibly warming to see clear, blue skies and crisp leaves on the ground. After meeting some friends for brunch and running some errands, I felt in the mood for some baking.
Flipping open my laptop, the kitchen soon became filled with the fragment, delicious smells of sugar cookies. It was an excellent day for writing. Working on Chapter 3, I wrote until I reached 1,006 words and came to a perfect stopping point (for the mere sake of eating dinner).
Today's excerpt: I stopped and stared at my friend. "Before or after we braid each other's hair and paint our nails? He's not our friend, Ty. I'm doing this for the sole purpose of not being on his list of prankees in the foreseeable future."
Hope everyone had a wonderful weekend and is progressing along in their NaNoWriMo journey!
Flipping open my laptop, the kitchen soon became filled with the fragment, delicious smells of sugar cookies. It was an excellent day for writing. Working on Chapter 3, I wrote until I reached 1,006 words and came to a perfect stopping point (for the mere sake of eating dinner).
Today's excerpt: I stopped and stared at my friend. "Before or after we braid each other's hair and paint our nails? He's not our friend, Ty. I'm doing this for the sole purpose of not being on his list of prankees in the foreseeable future."
Hope everyone had a wonderful weekend and is progressing along in their NaNoWriMo journey!
Saturday, November 2, 2013
Day Two of NaNoWriMo
There's nothing better than curling up in my city apartment with my computer and a cup of hazelnut coffee to start Day Two of NaNoWriMo. With the scent of my pumpkin candle wafting through the room, I embarked on Chapter Two of my novel.
Today's excerpt: "I felt like I was in one of my zombie video games. Everywhere I looked, aliens stepped out of the shadows, one-by-one cornering me from every direction, until I couldn't fight any longer. Red filled the screen, followed by the chilling words "The End."
How are the rest of you progressing? Did Day Two come easier than yesterday? Has the journey sunk in yet?
Excited to hear everyone's thoughts!
Today's excerpt: "I felt like I was in one of my zombie video games. Everywhere I looked, aliens stepped out of the shadows, one-by-one cornering me from every direction, until I couldn't fight any longer. Red filled the screen, followed by the chilling words "The End."
How are the rest of you progressing? Did Day Two come easier than yesterday? Has the journey sunk in yet?
Excited to hear everyone's thoughts!
Friday, November 1, 2013
NaNoWriMo 2013 Has Begun!
NaNoWriMo (National Novel Writing Month) kicked off today and I'm excited to announce that I am an active participant this year! As my first completed middle grade novel seeks an agent, my November will be filled with words, words, and more words. Hence: I am working on my second MG novel. I couldn't be more excited!
For those who are not familiar with the organization, NaNoWriMo is a community dedicated to helping writers start and complete a full-length novel (approx. 50,000 words) by the end of November. For myself, since I'm writing a middle grade novel, my word count will be around 30,000 words or so. The aim for any writer, though, is to ensure you write everyday. And no editing! A useful tip for any writer is to not find yourself married to your first draft words, otherwise it will make it that much harder to edit and kill your darlings.
I can't give too many details on what it's about yet but I will divulge that the viewpoint is from a male protagonist. The working title is: Dexter Fremont and the Blackmail Bailout.
Though I may not submit my writing through the NaNoWriMo website, I have added a word count tracker to my homepage so everyone can follow along in my journey to completing the book.
Each day I will attempt to come on here and paste a line or two from my novel, if not to prove I'm writing, but to entice future readers. :)
Here's todays: "Stop playing dumb, Ty. You know what I'm talking about, and it's not food. We basically just signed a deal with the devil. Actually, devils."
Who else is participating in NaNoWriMo! Please keep me updated on your progress as well! For those who want to follow me on the website, my username is: ksparks54.
Good luck, writers!
For those who are not familiar with the organization, NaNoWriMo is a community dedicated to helping writers start and complete a full-length novel (approx. 50,000 words) by the end of November. For myself, since I'm writing a middle grade novel, my word count will be around 30,000 words or so. The aim for any writer, though, is to ensure you write everyday. And no editing! A useful tip for any writer is to not find yourself married to your first draft words, otherwise it will make it that much harder to edit and kill your darlings.
I can't give too many details on what it's about yet but I will divulge that the viewpoint is from a male protagonist. The working title is: Dexter Fremont and the Blackmail Bailout.
Though I may not submit my writing through the NaNoWriMo website, I have added a word count tracker to my homepage so everyone can follow along in my journey to completing the book.
Each day I will attempt to come on here and paste a line or two from my novel, if not to prove I'm writing, but to entice future readers. :)
Here's todays: "Stop playing dumb, Ty. You know what I'm talking about, and it's not food. We basically just signed a deal with the devil. Actually, devils."
Who else is participating in NaNoWriMo! Please keep me updated on your progress as well! For those who want to follow me on the website, my username is: ksparks54.
Good luck, writers!
Tuesday, August 20, 2013
Hold Tight is Released!
Congratulations to my friend, Cherie Colyer, and the release of her second novel, Hold Tight, in the Embrace series! (For a limited time only, check out her blog to snag a specially priced copy of Embrace!)
When you’re new to magic, one spell can be the difference between getting what you want...and ruining the lives of everyone you love.
Sixteen-year-old Madison has just embraced her magical powers. The trick now is learning how to control them. She and her boyfriend -and fellow witch- can’t even enjoy a simple kiss without getting shocked when their powers collide. Instead of mastering her new skills, though, Madison is stuck watching her kid brother and doing chores.
But being a witch does have its benefits. With a simple spell, Madison instantly conjures the help she needs around the house. Or so she thinks. Her idea of “help” invites trouble of its own as a pair of dangerous yet enticing beings enter her life. When a classmate disappears soon afterwards, Madison discovers she's the next victim of a threat she's powerless to resist...and there’s nothing it won’t kill to make her surrender.
Caught in the crossfire between two dashing but deadly creatures, Madison must figure out which one to trust and how to rid her world of the other—before one of them destroys her and everyone she cares about.
What's one little spell?
When you’re new to magic, one spell can be the difference between getting what you want...and ruining the lives of everyone you love.
Sixteen-year-old Madison has just embraced her magical powers. The trick now is learning how to control them. She and her boyfriend -and fellow witch- can’t even enjoy a simple kiss without getting shocked when their powers collide. Instead of mastering her new skills, though, Madison is stuck watching her kid brother and doing chores.
But being a witch does have its benefits. With a simple spell, Madison instantly conjures the help she needs around the house. Or so she thinks. Her idea of “help” invites trouble of its own as a pair of dangerous yet enticing beings enter her life. When a classmate disappears soon afterwards, Madison discovers she's the next victim of a threat she's powerless to resist...and there’s nothing it won’t kill to make her surrender.
Caught in the crossfire between two dashing but deadly creatures, Madison must figure out which one to trust and how to rid her world of the other—before one of them destroys her and everyone she cares about.
Sunday, August 18, 2013
Get Your 4 Minutes of (Literary) Fame -- Now!
**Spark of the month** --- * .... The 4 Minutes of (Literary) Fame
Want to join in on the fun?
STEPS TO (LITERARY) FAME:
2) Sign up in advance to obtain one or all of the following:
- Reading pages from your story/book
- Sharing your book trailer
- Showing illustrations you've drawn (I write pictures books, so I always enjoy seeing the art!)
- Revealing your book cover
- Some other creative expression of your children's book lit book
3) Extend the invitation to your friends, family, dog, cat (okay, maybe not your pets...) but anyone who might find this interesting and fun is welcome to join!
4) Finito! You're ready for a night of literary fun! And some recognized fame...!
SPECIFIC DETAILS:
WHO: Any traditionally published, self-published or want-to-be published author or poet
WHAT: A good time of literary FUN!
HOW: PLEASE REGISTER IN ADVANCE! To be one of the stand-up authors SIGN UP HERE. We're limiting this first stand-up literary event to the first 15 authors who sign-up -- but we are definitely planning on setting up more of these events in the future! Nervous to present? Not ready to present? That's okay! Come out anyway and cheer on your fellow writers!
WHEN: Monday, October 21st, 2013 @ 7PM
WHERE: Tokio Pub, 1900 W. Higgins Road, Schaumburg, IL (http://tokiopub.com)
COST: Free! (although, we're hoping attendees buy a drink/app to thank Tokio Pub for hosting us!)
Hosted by: Kym Brunner (kymbrunner@comcast.net) // Cherie Colyer (cheriecolyerwriter@gmail.com) // Katie Sparks (kathrynsparkswriter@gmail.com)
ExTrAs:
*A table will be set up for attendees to provide bookmarks or other swag/giveaways, but to avoid those who attend to feel pressured to buy, we ask that you do not bring any books to sell.
**However, we will be providing everyone with a list of stand-up authors names, book titles, websites, social media (Twitter/Facebook) accounts, and any other contact information should you be want to follow-up with them afterwards.
SEE YOU ALL THERE!! ::::SIGN UP HERE!!::::
~Katie
Thursday, December 13, 2012
Happy Birthday to Embrace! (by Cherie Colyer)
It’s Embrace’s Book Birthday and to celebrate the
success of her debut novel Cherie Colyer is giving away a copy of her book plus
swag. Before we get to that, here is a brief excerpt and some information about
Embrace.
“I’m beginning to realize I’d do whatever it took to keep
someone I care about safe—expose what I am, harness my anger, let my darker
side take over. That’s one promise I know I can make without regret.”
[…]
I was about to protest when he then asked, “What about you? Just
what are your feelings toward me?” I must have hesitated because he laughed,
light and warm, yet there was a bitter edge to it. “I just told you I’d embrace
the dark to protect you, and you still can’t open up to me?”
Embrace
by Cherie
Colyer
How far would you go to save the people you love?
Synopsis:
Madison is
familiar enough with change, and she hates everything about it. Change took her
long-term boyfriend away from her. It caused one of her friends to suddenly
hate her. It’s responsible for the death of a local along with a host of other
mysterious happenings. But when Madison meets a hot new guy, she thinks her
luck is about to improve.
Madison is instantly drawn to the handsome and intriguing Isaac Addington. She quickly realizes he’s a guy harboring a secret, but she’s willing to risk the unknown to be with him.
Her world really spins out of control, however, when her best friend becomes delusional, seeing things that aren’t there and desperately trying to escape their evil. When the doctors can’t find the answers, Madison seeks her own.
Nothing can prepare her for what she is about to discover.
~~~~~~~~~~~
To add Embrace to your
Goodreads’ lists click here and to view
the book trailer click here. If you’d like to curl up with Embrace
today you can download the eBook on Amazon and Barnes &
Noble.
Sunday, October 7, 2012
*The Liebster Blog Award*
The Rules of the Award:
1. Each person must post 11 things about themselves.
2. Answer the questions the tagger has set for you and create 11 new questions for the people you've tagged.
3. Choose 11 people and link them in your post.
4. Go to their page and tell them.
5. Remember, no tag backs!
Christine's 11 Questions/My Answers
1. What is your favorite book?
Wow. This is a difficult question. There are SO many I could choose! However, the first thing that always comes to mind is Snow in August by Pete Hamill. I read this book in AP English one year in high school, and the story has never left me! I read it often just to remember how I felt the first time I read it.
2. If you could visit anywhere in the world, where would you go?
For me, this is a two-part answer. If I could go anywhere tomorrow, I would go straight to Salzburg, Austria where I studied abroad when I was in college. It was the most amazing, phenomenal experience of my life and I would love to visit my host family and see Mozart's birthplace again. As far as a place I've never been to, I'd love to go to Spain!
3. What technology do you think you will never adopt?
I can't say there is anything in particular that I would not adopt, however, I am one of the select people that doesn't own a Blu-Ray player. (Does that count?) My DVD player works just fine and I don't want to have to start my DVD collection over again!
4. What is your favorite comfort food?
Again, there could be many answers to this one! But if I had to choose, probably hummus! I could eat A LOT of this and still feel okay since it's pretty healthy for you! (Blue cheese stuffed olives might be right up there with hummus!)
5. What was your most embarrassing hairstyle?
It wasn't so much the hairstyle that I look back on and cringe, but rather this suede green headband that I religiously wore with everything. I had no shame when I was 10! But hey, I was being an individual, right?
6. What was your favorite childhood candy?
Reese's Peanut Butter Cups. And that hasn't changed a bit!
7. What is the prettiest city you have ever been to?
See answer to # 2. Salzburg, Austria, hands down!
8. If you had 10 minutes on a popular TV talk show, what would you talk about?
I guess it would all depend on whose talk show I was on, but I'd probably either talk about my writing and passion for children's books or encourage more college students to look into studying abroad. It's such an incredible and rewarding experience!
9. Are you a morning person or a night owl?
Definitely a night owl!
10. What is your favorite thing to do on a Sunday afternoon?
Watch the Chicago Bears, of course!!
11. Is there such a thing as too much chocolate?
NEVER!
Questions for the people I tagged below:
1. What's a guilty pleasure of yours that you're embarrassed to admit around your friends or family?
2. What's the last thing you accomplished that made you incredibly proud?
3. What's your biggest fear?
4. Have you or do you think you will ever overcome your fear?
5. Have you ever broken a bone? If so, how?
6. Do you have to eat breakfast in the morning in order to function?
7. What's your favorite movie and why?
8. If animals could talk, what would ask you them?
9. When you were little, what did you want to be when you grew up?
10. What is your favorite type of cookie?
11. Would you ever go sky diving?
People I Tagged (3 instead of 11):
Sunday, August 26, 2012
"Dear Lucky Agent" Middle Grade Novel Contest
Click here for more information!
Good luck!!
Tuesday, August 14, 2012
A *Groovy* SCBWI Summer Conference - 2012
Tonight marks a week since my first day back from the 2012 SCBWI LA Conference. For the fifth time in a row, I attended the national children's writer's conference, and man, was it a blast!
My fellow critique partners and friends from home, Cherie and Jen (roomies!) and I arrived early Thursday to take advantage of the LA weather and get some relaxation in before the really grueling (but exciting!) agenda arrived the following day. (And of course, we couldn't forget to include Kym!)
To welcome ourselves to the west coast, we treated ourselves to a delicious late lunch at Pink Taco. Yum!
Thankfully, when it comes to the LA conference, time flies and before you know it, you are back in the hotel basement, laptop opened, ears attuned. With a Starbucks in hand, I was home. Friday morning, the conference kicked off at 8:30am with the usual (and sometimes humorous) introductions and warm welcomes.
One of the most exciting features of the conference was debut author Cherie Colyer's first-time signing at the PAL book sale, or as I have dubbed it, The Wine & Cheese Party. It's one of my favorite events of the conference, and I was thrilled to be a part of Cherie's wonderful experience. Congrats Cherie!
Friday through Monday consisted of some excellent, gut-wrenchingly funny, and sometimes tear-inducing keynotes. Among my favorite were Arthur Levine, Gary Schmidt, Dan Gutman and Tony Diterlizzi. The Golden Kite and Sid Fleischman Award winners also gave spectacular speeches and truly deserved the honors awarded to them. (Quotes to come later!)
Many of the break-out sessions really hit home as well including presenters author Jay Asher (13 Reasons Why), agent Jill Corcoran (won a book at the raffle!) and Tim Ditlow from Amazon Publishing, as well as the agent/editor panel on finding your unique voice.
And then, it was time to get ready for....
The Hippie Hop Gala!!
Excitingly enough, we even had the chance to steal the spotlight from one of the hotel's events that night and walk the red carpet. Check out our glamorous ten minutes of fame photos:
So even though we close the chapter on #LA12SCBWI and another conference comes to an end, the inspiration continues. I'm excited to have met several more wonderful friends, made invaluable connections, workshopped my writing, as well as gained insightful knowledge and tips that will carry me into next year's conference.
As they said in the 60s, peace out!
My fellow critique partners and friends from home, Cherie and Jen (roomies!) and I arrived early Thursday to take advantage of the LA weather and get some relaxation in before the really grueling (but exciting!) agenda arrived the following day. (And of course, we couldn't forget to include Kym!)
 |
| Cherie, Kym and Me on the plane to LA! |
To welcome ourselves to the west coast, we treated ourselves to a delicious late lunch at Pink Taco. Yum!
Thankfully, when it comes to the LA conference, time flies and before you know it, you are back in the hotel basement, laptop opened, ears attuned. With a Starbucks in hand, I was home. Friday morning, the conference kicked off at 8:30am with the usual (and sometimes humorous) introductions and warm welcomes.
One of the most exciting features of the conference was debut author Cherie Colyer's first-time signing at the PAL book sale, or as I have dubbed it, The Wine & Cheese Party. It's one of my favorite events of the conference, and I was thrilled to be a part of Cherie's wonderful experience. Congrats Cherie!
 |
| Embrace by Cherie Colyer -- Read it!! |
Friday through Monday consisted of some excellent, gut-wrenchingly funny, and sometimes tear-inducing keynotes. Among my favorite were Arthur Levine, Gary Schmidt, Dan Gutman and Tony Diterlizzi. The Golden Kite and Sid Fleischman Award winners also gave spectacular speeches and truly deserved the honors awarded to them. (Quotes to come later!)
Many of the break-out sessions really hit home as well including presenters author Jay Asher (13 Reasons Why), agent Jill Corcoran (won a book at the raffle!) and Tim Ditlow from Amazon Publishing, as well as the agent/editor panel on finding your unique voice.
And then, it was time to get ready for....
 |
| Cherie, Matt, Me and Jen |
 |
| Cherie, author Michael Reisman, Jen and Me |
 |
| Meg and Me |
The Hippie Hop Gala!!
Excitingly enough, we even had the chance to steal the spotlight from one of the hotel's events that night and walk the red carpet. Check out our glamorous ten minutes of fame photos:
So even though we close the chapter on #LA12SCBWI and another conference comes to an end, the inspiration continues. I'm excited to have met several more wonderful friends, made invaluable connections, workshopped my writing, as well as gained insightful knowledge and tips that will carry me into next year's conference.
As they said in the 60s, peace out!
Monday, July 30, 2012
2012 SCBWI Summer Conference LA
This Thursday, August 2nd, I’ll be hopping on a plane
to Los Angeles for my sixth SCBWI Summer Conference. (Yikes! Sixth!? Where has the time gone??) With a myriad of
stellar workshops, seminars, keynotes, lunch and dinner dates, and crazy
dancing under my belt, I thought I’d share some information to get you breezing
through the four days.
Whether you’re a first time conference attendee or veteran,
hopefully my vast knowledge on one of the most informative, beneficial and
enjoyable writer’s conferences will help you feel more at ease:
Thursday
For the past few years, I’ve arrived early Thursday to get ahead of the game. This allows a few of us to grab our hotel room and settle in as well as gives us the opportunity to really *see* Los Angeles. With a jam-packed four-day schedule, there’s not much time later on to jet out on the town.
For the past few years, I’ve arrived early Thursday to get ahead of the game. This allows a few of us to grab our hotel room and settle in as well as gives us the opportunity to really *see* Los Angeles. With a jam-packed four-day schedule, there’s not much time later on to jet out on the town.
For more information, definitely say hello to the fellow concierge folks – they
are EXCELLENT for recommending places and restaurants in the surrounding LA
area, calling in reservations or
get a taxi. The computers in front
of the concierge allow you to check-in for your flight and print off your
ticket as well.
Los Angeles Area
I recommend Don Antonio’s for an excellent Mexican meal complete with tangy salsa and margaritas!
I recommend Don Antonio’s for an excellent Mexican meal complete with tangy salsa and margaritas!
Toast is a great breakfast café and Ketchup has a great classy
ambiance to its red and white dinner theme.
Santa Monica Pier is great for walking along the beach,
taking a dip or checking out the local farmer’s market.
Rodeo Drive is walking distance (but definitely a hike!)
from our hotel but if you do, make sure you have plenty of time to get there
and back as well as shop!
STK is a classy downtown bar where I ran into actor Chad Michael Murray the first year I went to the conference!
STK is a classy downtown bar where I ran into actor Chad Michael Murray the first year I went to the conference!
All are within a taxi ride from the hotel.
Friday
Take part in the Wine & Cheese Party/Book Signing – it’s an excellent way to meet new authors who recently published a book as well as mingle with other attendees. (Fellow SCBWI –IL member Cherie Colyer will be there signing copies of her novel, Embrace!)
Friday
Take part in the Wine & Cheese Party/Book Signing – it’s an excellent way to meet new authors who recently published a book as well as mingle with other attendees. (Fellow SCBWI –IL member Cherie Colyer will be there signing copies of her novel, Embrace!)
Morning
After you rise and shine, you have the option to wither away in the long snake-like line to grab a delicious latte at the hotel Starbucks or opt for the hotel coffee in the basement. Words of advice: if you go for the Starbucks each morning like I do, plan to get up at least 20 minutes earlier to stand in line or hopefully, beat the crowd. (You’ll also get a better seat in the main auditorium.) HOWEVER, a few of us have discovered it’s quicker to go to the Starbucks right outside of the hotel (to the left) across the street.
After you rise and shine, you have the option to wither away in the long snake-like line to grab a delicious latte at the hotel Starbucks or opt for the hotel coffee in the basement. Words of advice: if you go for the Starbucks each morning like I do, plan to get up at least 20 minutes earlier to stand in line or hopefully, beat the crowd. (You’ll also get a better seat in the main auditorium.) HOWEVER, a few of us have discovered it’s quicker to go to the Starbucks right outside of the hotel (to the left) across the street.
Lunch/Dinner
The Hyatt Regency Century Plaza shopping mall next door provides
a plethora of lunch and dinner options ranging from The Bread Bar (think Corner
Baker or Panera) to Pink Taco to Rock Sugar (thai/sushi), as well as many other smaller eateries. Not far from The
Bread Bar is Gelsons, a seemingly underground grocery store that comes in handy
when you need snacks or beverages for your hotel room or to munch on during the
conference. (And is also where some people ran into Paula
Abdul last year!)
The corporate building across the street (use the
underground tunnel to safely get there) is only open during the work week, so
on Friday and Monday, you may want to venture over there for some delicious
cuisine and outdoor seating.
Sandwiches and beverages are also offered for a small fee on
the lunch cart in the hotel.
The X-bar at the hotel is perfect for networking with
others, getting a drink to wind down or to taste the delicious appetizers such
as the Tuna Tar Tar – a staple each time I attend. The restaurant café, though I have only eaten there
twice, has great sushi featuring their own sous chef.
What To Bring (Aside
from the Norm)
*A light jacket or sweater for the cold rooms
*Your laptop – inspiration could strike at any moment and you may want to take notes or whip out your manuscript (and don’t forget the charger!)
*A notebook and pen
*Any business/writer/illustrator cards you may have
*A jump drive in case you need to save something (or you can always e-mail it to yourself)
*For us Illinoisans, bring a penny to place in your name tag to distinguish us from the rest!
*Print off your schedule ahead of time so you can figure out which workshops to attend (or download the iPhone app). I usually go over this with friends during the four hour flight to Cali – then if there are ones you want to attend but cannot, someone else may be attending that can swap notes with you.
* Don’t forget your swimsuit for some R & R out back in the pool or hot tub!
*Your Saturday night party costume! You’ll be surprised at how creative people can be!
*A light jacket or sweater for the cold rooms
*Your laptop – inspiration could strike at any moment and you may want to take notes or whip out your manuscript (and don’t forget the charger!)
*A notebook and pen
*Any business/writer/illustrator cards you may have
*A jump drive in case you need to save something (or you can always e-mail it to yourself)
*For us Illinoisans, bring a penny to place in your name tag to distinguish us from the rest!
*Print off your schedule ahead of time so you can figure out which workshops to attend (or download the iPhone app). I usually go over this with friends during the four hour flight to Cali – then if there are ones you want to attend but cannot, someone else may be attending that can swap notes with you.
* Don’t forget your swimsuit for some R & R out back in the pool or hot tub!
*Your Saturday night party costume! You’ll be surprised at how creative people can be!
Helpful Last Minute
Tips
*Forgot to print something? Want to make a copy? The floor just above the main basement has a small printing shop for you to print, make copies, or use the Internet for a small fee. (Internet access is not free for conference attendees except when in the basement area).
*Bring lots of cash – the SCBWI bookstore sells a bunch of SCBWI affiliated gear (bags, jackets, coffee cups, DVDs, etc.) as well as keynote speaker and author books. If you use cash to purchase any items, you will receive a lovely discount. If you use a credit card, you still receive a discount but a smaller one. So save room in your suitcase for some awesome reads!
*Forgot to print something? Want to make a copy? The floor just above the main basement has a small printing shop for you to print, make copies, or use the Internet for a small fee. (Internet access is not free for conference attendees except when in the basement area).
*Bring lots of cash – the SCBWI bookstore sells a bunch of SCBWI affiliated gear (bags, jackets, coffee cups, DVDs, etc.) as well as keynote speaker and author books. If you use cash to purchase any items, you will receive a lovely discount. If you use a credit card, you still receive a discount but a smaller one. So save room in your suitcase for some awesome reads!
Veterans, if I forgot anything, please feel free to add!
Have fun, and I hope to meet many of you there! :-)
-Katie
Wednesday, June 20, 2012
Wacky What-If-A-Thon Wednesday
As my new project (and on my blog), I will be starting the Wacky What -If-A-Thon Wednesday; thanks to Brittney Breakey for the idea! This is a great way to spark some new ideas for stories. Please feel free to share your own What-If thoughts! I will start us off.
*What if everyone was forced to tell the truth?*
Tuesday, May 1, 2012
Workshop: Ulimate Picture Book Editing
I have fantastic news!
Beginning today, I will be participating in an incredible writer's workshop geared toward picture book editing. Hosted by the wonderful Jodell Sadler (SCBWI-IL!), participants will spend three weeks actively learning 20 great pacing techniques to strenghten their picture book stories, such as rhyme, rhythm, repeptition, word choice, etc.
As many writers (specifically picture book writers) are well aware of, writing picture books is not easy. In fact, it's pretty difficult. If you have a computer-full of picture book manuscripts just awaiting your red pen, I highly encourage you to check out this workshop. If you want to make a difference in your stories, this is the place to start!
For more information, please check out: http://www.pacingpicturebooks.com./
Best writing wishes to all!
 |
| Picture courtesy of pacingpicturebooks.com (Jodell Sadler) |
Beginning today, I will be participating in an incredible writer's workshop geared toward picture book editing. Hosted by the wonderful Jodell Sadler (SCBWI-IL!), participants will spend three weeks actively learning 20 great pacing techniques to strenghten their picture book stories, such as rhyme, rhythm, repeptition, word choice, etc.
As many writers (specifically picture book writers) are well aware of, writing picture books is not easy. In fact, it's pretty difficult. If you have a computer-full of picture book manuscripts just awaiting your red pen, I highly encourage you to check out this workshop. If you want to make a difference in your stories, this is the place to start!
For more information, please check out: http://www.pacingpicturebooks.com./
Best writing wishes to all!
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