Monday, September 30, 2019

"Mya the Mermaid" by Helen G


Who doesn't love a cute book for three to eight-year-olds? I know that one of my favorite things to do as a grandmother is to cuddle up with them and read a book or two. I'm not sure who gets more out of reading together, but one thing for certain, it is fun and provides quality time. As a retired educator with a Ph.D., I know the importance of reading to and with children. The fun part is when you come across a book that is so captivating, well-written, has a message, and gorgeous illustrations and that is exactly what I found in "Mya the Mermaid" written by Helen G. It is with great pleasure that I introduce you to my newest author.


Helen G

MYA THE MERMAID


Tell your readers a little about yourself -- where you grew up, where you live now, where you went to school etc. Let them get to know the personal you.

I was born in Penang, Malaysia but grew up in Sunny Singapore, from one island to another island country. Currently, I reside in Singapore with my three active children. I earned a Master of Science in marketing, a postgraduate diploma in Education, and a degree in psychology. Love of learning has always been my passion in life.

What inspired you to write this book?

My children are my inspiration. I have always wanted to write a book, and because I love the charming and inspirational side of children storybooks, I decided to dedicate a book each to my three children and my nephew. I wanted to keep true to their characters and yet, integrate certain life lessons in the stories. On top of that and most importantly, I wanted to show them that as long as you put your heart into it, you can achieve anything (well, most things! :D).




Where did you get the inspiration for your book’s cover?

Mya the Mermaid loves to sing, so the cover is most appropriate. We have always called our daughter the singing baby from the time she was a baby! She loves the cover! 





Who has been the biggest influence on you personally and as a writer?

Personally, I have to say my parents and my husband have been my main pillars of support. Their faith in me allowed me to venture into writing, amidst many other commitments.

In regard to writing, I have always loved literature. Believe it or not, William Shakespeare is one of my most favorite writers of all times! There’s so much to learn in his literary works -- they give us so much insight into the cultures and societies, historical events and even how characters and their nuances are perceived in those times. His works are full of passion, full of elements that we as readers are passionate to discuss. His contribution to the literary world is timeless.

What were your struggles or obstacles you had to overcome to get this book written?

Due to my work and family commitments, “Mya the Mermaid” project was shelved for almost a year. On top of that, I am quite a detailed person, so Celine, my illustrator was very patient with me while we worked on how to best represent the story. I am so glad to finally place it out there in the literary world.   

Tell your readers about your book.

Mya the Mermaid is about embracing diversities and the kindness of those who helped her realize her dreams. She was able to run along the shore, travel the world, and play with other children because she met kind, helpful people everywhere she went. Mya also realized that no matter where she went, children of the world with different customs, cultures, and beliefs are ultimately, the same -- and she was enchanted.

I wanted to depict a world free of prejudice and discrimination, full of dreams and hopefully, inspire young readers to grow up with a healthy, positive mindset and the determination to fulfill their dreams.




Who is your target audience, and why?

Three to eight-years-olds are my main target audience; or anyone who loves a feel-good, charming story.

If you were going to give one reason for anyone looking at your book to read, why should they buy it?

I always believe that books are meant to open up our mind and horizon. By vicariously going through the adventures with Mya the Mermaid, I hope its positivity and its messages can reach our young readers and inspire a better world “tomorrow.”

At the same time, parenting journey can be quite a challenge. I hope this can be a tool for parents to bond with their children, so I included a discussion page at the end of the book. Hopefully, we can bring up positive-minded, great attitude, children with grown mindset together!

You have a second book that you published at the same time as the first. Tell me about that book.

Ayden the Astronaut is dedicated to my youngest son. It’s about an astronaut boy Ayden who lives on the moon with his family and friends. His grandparents moved to the moon many years ago because they felt that Earth was so badly polluted that it was no longer feasible to live there. Burning with curiosity, he set off for Earth with his friends. 


As a parent, I want a habitable world for the world’s children, say, fifty years from now. This book calls for our attention to the effects of real global issues such as global warming and pollution.  I also hope it can be a fun book to read and enjoy!

What do you consider your greatest success in life?

I don’t really have a specific example. I would have to say my determination to fulfill my goals. The recent launch of my picture books are also personally, one of my own goals.

Everyone has life lessons to learn, tell your readers one or two of yours, and how they make you the person you are today.

I think with the passing of some friends and family members; it made me realize that we should not take things for granted. It also fueled my determination to finish my list of important things to do, and that is to share positivity and do something for children of the world. Consequently, I also try not to look back and regret anything that I’ve done.

What one unique thing sets you apart from other writers in your genre?

My end goal was not to publish one or two children’s picture books. I hope to connect with parents and educators and hopefully build a community of people who are willing to work towards a common goal together -- bringing up positive-minded children in a world worth inhabiting in the future free of harmful pollutants and filled with hope.

Currently, I am also launching a website www.helengauthor/resources that provides free printables of parenting and educational materials in cute infographic format as well as a Youtube channel which will also share similar materials in a fun and visual manner!  The Youtube channel and the website will be launched on the 1st October 2019.


Little Gamer with Big Dreams on Youtube

Good morning everyone. I don't know about you, but yesterday's NFL games were bizarre and at the same time amazing outcomes. For me, I was inside the Superdome cheering on my beloved New Orleans Saints and by the time it was over, I felt like I had run a marathon. My heart pounded deep within me. Good grief Saints, stop it. I'm kidding. I would rather have an exciting game where my team wins than to lose. So, congratulations to the defense on this huge win over Dallas. Who's the big D now? Saints' Defense!


Follow Little Gamer on Youtube Here
Speaking of games, this brings me to a very talented and ambitious young man I want to introduce you to. Yes, young man, because he is nine-years-old. For obvious reasons, I won't reveal his true identity but I will call him Wonder Boy Gamer or as his parents call him Little Gamer. I don't know about you but when I come across a child with ambition and vision I admire not only the child but also the parents. In this case, Little Gamer's parents support their son's efforts to start a YouTube channel of his own. One of his parents said, "I'm so proud of my Little Gamer. He has a really creative mind. Most of the videos are his ideas. I help him out with writing scripts and researching but he comes up with the ideas and topics. He just wants the viewers to smile and laugh."



Little Gamer came up with the idea to do angry fail moments video which was one of his first and can be watched below. Take a look.








He then filmed another video of him playing one of his favorite games.




"As a parent, I did not want the viewers to see his gaming failures so it was my idea to edit a bunch of awesome gameplay moments and we released this one today," said his father.



Now meet the young man we call Little Gamer.


Tell your readers a little about yourself.

I’m nine-years-old. I love playing Fortnite the most. I love playing other games as well. I love to sit and relax and play on the weekend because during school days I’m not allowed.

 What are your hobbies?

Well, I like recess at school and I like lunchtime because that’s the time I get to talk to my friends the most. After school, I go to my Taekwando class. I’m a blue belt and I also love hanging out with my friends there. I love competing at Taekwando competitions and playing games there. Sometimes I go out jogging with my dad. I love playing video games and helping my dad make YouTube videos.
What inspired you to start your Youtube Channel?

I wanted to start a channel because I think I’m good at playing video games. I just wanted more people to see me play. I also want to make people smile and laugh.




What types of videos do you plan on offering to your subscribers?


I love making funny videos. They can expect funny gameplay, funny moments. I’m learning and my dad is learning so as we learn, we plan to make how-to videos and we want to share what we learn with other people that are thinking about starting up a channel.

Who has been the biggest influence on you?

My dad, my mom and also my Taekwondo instructor Master Jesse from Kugar Taekwondo. My mom and dad wake up early every day for work.

What were your struggles to get your YouTube Channel started?

Probably convincing my mom and dad to even get a channel started but finally, they said yes. Trying to learn how to edit the video. It has been really slow learning but I think we're getting there. It makes us feel good when we upload a new video all the hard work editing and rerecording voice-overs trying to get the scripts to sound just right.

 Do you have a gamer idol? If so, who and why?

I like Dan TDM. He looks cool. He is so funny and he has pugs. He has cool hair.

What is your favorite video game to play and why?

Fortnite because it's fun. I get to play with my friends. I love trying out different costumes (skins). It's just so much fun playing with friends or playing alone.

Tell me anything else you would want my readers to know about you.


I love going to the beach in the summer. I like grilled cheese sandwiches. I love to make people smile. And that’s it.


Sunday, September 22, 2019

Sleeping Dogs Lie by Tim Holcombe


Tim Holcombe
I am sitting on my balcony in Orange Beach watching the waves roll it. The weather has been gorgeous and the atmosphere enhances my writing and my editing. I also brought a couple of books to read, one of which was published in 1957 and it is a science fiction book. It is called STAR BORN. I find it amazing how well the author wrote his words to paint a picture of an unknown galaxy and aliens. 

Today's author is a traveler in a sense because he loves to go cross country in his RV and write. There must be something in the air for us authors and our sense of adventure and traveling. Now let's meet today's author. Tim Holcombe is a full-time RVer. While traveling, Tim writes about his alter ego, Panama Parker, in the Panama Parker adventure series. His latest book, Sleeping Dogs Lie is now available as are his other books on Amazon in paperback, and for your Kindle device.

  1. Tell your readers a little about yourself, where you grew up, where you live now, where you went to school etc. Let them get to know the personal you.
    I was raised in Marietta, Georgia. I'm a bona fide southerner, with an affection for magnolia trees, mint juleps, and college football. I share a love of travel with my wife, Marina, and we meander the roads of America in our RV, searching history, culture, quirkiness, and inspiration for the next book.
  2. What inspired you to author this book?
    My love of adventure and RV living is my inspiration. Sleeping Dogs Lie is the latest book in my Panama Parker Adventure series. Panama is my alter-ego, and a full-time RVer, constantly seeking adventure, while dodging trouble-filled obstacles, seemingly at every turn.
  3. Where did you get the inspiration for your book’s cover?
    It's a simple cover which corresponds with the theme of the book. Panama uncovers closely-guarded secrets about his family's past, and when his research leads him all the way to Alaska, he encounters a lot of detours. On one occasion, he is advised to simply let sleeping dogs lie. Naturally, he doesn't.


  4. Who has been the most significant influence on you personally and as a writer?
    I love southern humorists, such as Lewis Grizzard and Jerry Clower. Among writers, I enjoy the early works of Stuart Woods, Nelson Demille and Ken Follett. I think my style hopefully combines enough drama with humor, to hopefully keep the pages turning.
  5. What were your struggles or obstacles you had to overcome to get this book written?
    Book marketing has a fairly impressive learning curve. It takes a lot of work to be successful, particularly for independent authors. The actual writing is, for me, the easiest part of the process. I'm fortunate to have a terrific editor and marketing director, who also happens to occupy the other half of our annual tax return (which she also prepares.)
  6. Tell your readers about your book.
    Sleeping Dogs Lie is the fourth volume in the Panama Parker adventure series. After his last living relative dies, Panama inherits his boyhood home. While going through some boxes in the cellar, he discovers photos which reveal the possibility of a relative he never knew existed. His search takes him all the way from Georgia to Alaska, in search of his uncle. His trip is filled with all sorts of problems. What he ultimately finds, changes him forever.


  7. Who is your target audience, and why?
    My target audience is anyone who enjoys a great story, complete with a few laughs, a few tears, and enough drama to keep you engaged. The Panama Parker series isn't gratuitous: there's no blood, gore, sex, or offensive language. My target audience enjoys this, I believe, and they know they're getting a fun, wholesome read, while still managing to press all the right buttons.
  8. What do you consider your greatest success in life?
    Three beautiful young ladies, and one very handsome young man. Can you top that?
  9. What one unique thing sets you apart from other writers in your genre?
    I think I'm pretty good at the development of my characters, as well as plot twists. Other than that, I'd say my unique southern flair, and my determination to write an engaging novel without being gratuitous.




Tuesday, September 17, 2019

Rise to The Rhythm-Groove to Improve & Live Your Life’s Highest Capabilities, One Beat At A Time by Joey L. Dowdy


Happy Tuesday morning. It is a gorgeous day in my part of the world. I got to wake up, smell the fresh brew of coffee, sit on the patio deck and drink it. There is something to be said about the phrase, "You have to stop and smell the roses." Wait! As good as that sounds, I realize that if I don't do something else to energize myself, I become a desk or couch potato. Yep, here goes another saying, "If you don't use it, you lose it." Ouch! I must confess that I am very good at using my brain. I am constantly writing, editing or marketing with my Fiverr gigs. Yes, that right, I also freelance and offer numerous services for authors. If you want to know more about that, contact me.

Now back to moving. I hate to exercise with a passion. I swim -- in my mind, that's fun, not exercising. The same goes for walks in the park, hiking, or riding a bike. All of those fun activities I enjoy. The last really big activity I enjoy is dancing and by dancing, I am referring to any type of dancing. I can dance in the kitchen, dance as I clean, dance in the pool, dance in my living room, and I have taken ballroom dancing, which I love. This brings me to the next author, Joey L. Dowdy, AKA, Dr. Dancer, who I am going to introduce to my readers. I think you are really going to love learning about him and his new book  "Rise to The Rhythm-Groove to Improve & Live Your Life’s Highest Capabilities, One Beat At A Time." This book is after my own heart.


Joey L. Dowdy, AKA, Dr. Dancer

Rise to The Rhythm-Groove to Improve & Live Your Life’s Highest Capabilities,
One Beat At A Time 




  1. Tell your readers a little about yourself, where you grew up, where you live now, where you went to school etc. Let them get to know the personal you.
    Hello, I’m Joey L. Dowdy AKA Dr. Dancer. The title of my book is Rise to The Rhythm-Groove to Improve & Live Your Life’s Highest Capabilities, One Beat At A Time. I’m originally from Memphis Tennessee and I went to Craigmont High and after graduation, I went to college at Point University in Pittsburgh Pa. Where there I received a Bachelor of Performing Arts (Theatre, Dance, Music) & Communications degree. Today I live in Los Angeles. 
  2. What inspired you to author this book?
    I wrote this book hoping it would reach and touch the lives of those who may feel as though they’re stuck in the rhythm of a life that’s going nowhere. Yet, they’re still hanging on to a glimmer of hope. And if this is you know that your, “Hope Has Arrived!”


  3. Where did you get the inspiration for your book’s cover?
    My inspiration for the book cover stemmed from wanting to do something different. Because what I didn’t want was to be common and or generic. I felt the cover needed to reflect me and the artistic work I do. I describe my book cover as a collage that shows movement, sex appeal, connection, freedom, and how you can use your life’s rhythm and ability to reach for what you desire.  
  4. Who has been the most significant influence on you personally and as a writer?
    I’m influenced and excited by people who desire to do something with their lives. People who aren’t afraid to look foolish in the eyes of others who might laugh at them for having the guts and courage it takes to step out of the box, and or their comfort zone.

    As a writer, I gained the courage to pursue my writing abilities from Dr. Niama Leslie Williams. She is a very caring person and a close friend who passed away from breast cancer in Aug 2016. Her accolades include having a PH-D in literary intuitiveness and she is also an author of eleven books. As a creative nonfiction writer, she encouraged me to tell my stories about the people I encounter, my artistic abilities, and to express what I write with sincerity, honesty, and boldness.

     Dr. Niama also taught me about self-worth when she came to visit me in the hospital on June 7th, 2016 the day after I had a total hip replacement surgery. She knew I had pushed my body, mind, & spirit to its limit. Therefore, she insisted that I take a break from performing, teaching, dancing, etc. or anything causing me to overexert myself. In which I had not done in over a decade. Then she said something to me no one had ever said to me before. She said, “You Deserve So Much More!”
  5. What were your struggles or obstacles you had to overcome to get this book written?
    I’m so glad you asked this question because it’s what the book is all about. Overcoming!!!

    Here’s an excerpt from the book.

    Imagine It to Be

    Grab A Number and Wait in Line?

    I remember this story so well; it was back in June 2013. It so happened that when I told people, I would write my first book entitled “Get Up & Groove: Step Into Greatness,” I got mixed reactions. Some were excited because they knew it was a tall task to take on. Then, some skeptics didn’t believe, and said, “yeah, we’ve heard that before, so why not grab a number and wait in line with the rest of them?”

    However, I believe what they said stemmed from bitterness or jealousy. They probably aspired to do the same but never did.  Then there were those who literally laughed in my face. For example, I remember telling a male and a female duo management team, working for a housing facility, that I would write a book. Now here’s the thing, their physical reaction spoke louder than their words. After I told them, they looked at each other and made a chuckle that translated, “yeah, right?” What did I do? I shrugged it off because I had clarity about what I wanted to do.

    And I was so excited in the early period of working on my manuscript that I couldn’t wait to share it with a friend. Even though what I shared was a rough draft, and I mean “rough,” I did so hoping to get some feedback since he was an avid reader whom I believed would find favor in reading it. And he did! Well, at least I thought so “at first.” Let me explain.
     
  6. Tell your readers about your book.
    BUY NOW
    This is my second book, and it’s personal to me because I self-published it on my own. Unlike my first book produced by a vanity publishing company who cared nothing about the writing. Rise to The Rhythm-Groove to Improve & Live Your Life’s Highest Capabilities, One Beat At A Time is a book written for those who’ve been down for too long but are now ready to get back up & take control over their lives.  

    Here’s another excerpt.  Know This: The Rhythm of Life Is A Powerful Beat!

    Been Down for too long? Well, it’s time to Rise to the Top and awaken the beat to live your highest capability. Did you know that as rhythm has a cadence, and a beat, so does your life? In fact, the rhythm of life is a powerful beat. But what happens at those times when your life’s rhythm knocks you off your beat? Is it possible you can catch up? Or is there a point where it might be too late? Here’s the thing. If you’re not moving, it means you’re not motivated to get up and groove. It’s like having a broken link that needs to be fixed. How do you fix it? The secret is to “Catch the Rhythm” and live in the pulsating power of a “life on the groove.”

    No, it’s never too late to find your beat and get back in step. 
  7. Who is your target audience, and why?
    My target audience is the little boy, or girl, or the grown man or woman who believes their dream can go from being a "fantasy to reality.” Why? Because you need to know that if someone else did it, then so can you.
  8. What do you consider your greatest success in life?
    My greatest success in life is being able to do what I love every single day. It’s truly a gift from God I never take for granted.
  9. What one unique thing sets you apart from other writers in your genre?
    I would it’s my ability to real and not fake with telling people the naked truth about what it’ll take for them to get the results they desire.

    FOLLOW AUTHOR


    1. Author Website: https://www.joeyldowdy.com