Tag Archives: children book

Newly Released Dagah: The Great Fish is a Whale of a Tale!

Author Victoria McCarty Pens a Heartfelt Children’s Story of Faith and Trust.

Baltimore, MD (USA), August 26th, 2016 — We are familiar with the story of Jonah, a Bible story of epic proportions told of a man who is swallowed whole by a whale. But have we ever considered the story from the whale’s point of view? “Dagah: The Great Fish” is just that, the tale of a great whale who was called upon by God to participate in a mission far greater than he could have imagined.

“When my friend Inky asked the question – what did the whale think – it inspired me to create a colorful children’s book that would explore the relationship the fish had with God and how he came to swallow Jonah,” said author Victoria McCarty. “The question was asked jokingly but Inky really helped me delve into the story further and imagine what it would be like to be asked to do something far outside our comfort zone. “Dagah: The Great Fish” explores that experience. How do we respond when we are asked to do something we are sure we cannot.

In the story “Dagah: The Great Fish”, the main character is swimming along happily when he hears a voice that asks him to leave the comforts of home, food, and shelter and travel into the cold, dark waters of the unknown. Through a strong faith and trust in God, Dagah travels into a variety of interesting places and plays a major role in the story of Jonah, a simple man that God is also used for far greater good.

“Dagah: The Great Fish” is Victoria’s own experience in being asked to do something out of the norm. Prior to this story, Victoria has enjoyed writing but it was a very private endeavor. However, with “Dagah: The Great Fish” she felt called upon to create a story of faith and share it with the world.

“My hope is that “Dagah: The Great Fish” will resonate with young readers,” said McCarty. “Children have all experienced times when teachers, parents and other adults in their life have asked them to do something they felt was too difficult. Hopefully “Dagah: The Great Fish” will teach them that through faith and trust in God, who is always at their side offering support and comfort, they can accomplish great things.”

“Not only is this a wonderful children’s story,” said Lisa Umina, founder and publisher of Halo Publishing International, “but it is also a tale that will inspire parents to seek out more information about Jonah and other stories in the Bible that focus on God’s love and the importance of trusting in Him.”

Victoria’s story is accompanied by the beautiful art of her sister, Sarah Holtsberg, who is currently attending college. Her drawings bring the story of Dagah to life.

“Dagah: The Great Fish” is available through Halo Publishing as well as Amazon and Barnes and Noble.

About Victoria McCarty:
Victoria McCarty is an art teacher, writer and active participant in children’s ministry in rural Carroll County, Maryland. She resides with her husband, dog, and cat focusing on church activities and creating studio artwork. Sharing God’s word in creative ways is one of Victoria’s passions. “Dagah: The Great Fish” is her first published work.

About Halo Publishing International:
Halo Publishing International is a self-publishing company that publishes adult fiction and non-fiction, children’s literature, self-help, spiritual, and faith-based books. We continually strive to help authors reach their publishing goals and provide many different services that help them do so. http://www.HaloPublishing.com

Press & Media Contact:
Lisa M. Umina, Publisher
Halo Publishing International
1100 NW Loop 410, Suite 700-176
San Antonio, TX 78213 – USA
+1 877-705-9647
contact@halopublishing.com

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New Children’s Book “Mama Stitches” Offers Message of Love and Community

Mama Stitches is the first book in a series of original stories about how a mother dog, her puppies and their owner sew clothes for the homeless and cover them with love.

New Britain, CT (USA), June 22nd, 2016 — The latest book from the awarding winning house of Halo Publishing International is Akintunde “Tunde” Sogunro’s book Mama Stitches: To Cover with Love. Mama Stitches is the first book in a series of original stories about how a mother dog, her puppies and their owner sew clothes for the homeless and cover them with love. Beautifully illustrated by former Disney artist, Chad Thompson, this story shares a message of love and acceptance, of generosity and community; perfect for reading aloud to your children.

“I wanted to create a story about the importance of love to be shared with children who may or may not feel supported and encouraged at home,” said author, Tunde. “I believe everyone is born with a voice but as we grow and experience pain in life we begin to wear masks and lose touch with our voice, identity and dream. As Mama Stitches says: “Everyone has a story and a song in their heart. I love to listen close and sew them just what they need!

“My hope is that, as children fall in love with Mama Stitches, they will fall in love with reading and subsequently show love to the homeless and needy in their community. It is the love, literacy and community movement,” said Tunde. “Let’s start a love revolution!”

As part of that desire to unite a community, Tunde has been working over the past several months to bring together libraries, churches, government officials and families for the Mama Stitches 5,000 Back-to-School Book Release Block Party where the vision is to provide 5,000 copies of Mama Stitches to 5,000 children and collect 5,000 articles of clothing for the homeless.

This will be the debut event of Cover With Love (www.coverwithlove.org), a new non-profit that partners with other organizations such as Reality Outreach Unlimited, Coram Deo, Family Promise for the Homeless and Paradym Inc, that is dedicated to showcasing the radical power of unconditional Agape love to the world!

“The message of “cover with love” in Tunde’s book Mama Stitches is so joyful,” said Lisa Umina, founder and president of Halo Publishing. “Tunde’s passion for building community through this message of love and literacy is inspiring and I hope everyone will have a chance to read this clever story. I imagine many will relate to Mama Stitches’ pup Little Mama who wants to be good but takes a little bit longer to understand the benefits of giving back. It is fun to watch her grow to be filled with the community spirit.”

The Mama Stitches 5,000 Back-to-School Book Release Block Party is schedule for August 20, 2016 from 10am-2pm. Utilizing the totality of the historic Trinity-On-Main performing Arts Center, (located at 69 Main Street, New Britain, Ct 06051), there will be story-telling, face painting, caricature drawing, games, “Dunk the Major” with New Britain Mayor, Erin Stewart and puppy petting. Admission to the event is a donation of clothing. Business or organizations interested in ensuring inner city children are introduced to Mama Stitches’ love, can pre-order copies of Mama Stitches on Amazon and Barnes and Noble. They may also sponsor special edition copies of Mama Stitches for inner city and DCF foster care children by contacting Tunde directly at tundedriven2inspire@gmail.coim

“We want to create an idea that will last and the message of Mama Stitches is just that,” said Tunde. “What better way than to share the message of “cover with love” at an old fashioned block party where the entire community comes together. Our goal is to have 5,000 copies Mama Stitches: To Cover with Love sponsored so that the children of Greater New Britain and Greater Hartford areas can receive a free copy for their own enjoyment.”

The Mama Stitches Movement has just received exciting endorsements from countless public figures including Nancy Serra, Superintendent of New Britain Public Schools, Mayor Erin Stewart, and award winning author Catherine Gibson. To learn more, visit www.mamastitches.com and www.coverwithlove.org . Mama Stitches: To Cover with Love is available to pre-order at Amazon and Barnes and Noble; $21.95 in hardcover.

* Series: Mama Stitches (Book 1)
* Hardcover: 32 pages
* Illustrated: Chad Thompson
* Publisher: Halo Publishing International; 1st edition (July 25, 2016)
* Language: English
* ISBN-10: 161244296X
* ISBN-13: 978-1612442969
* Product Dimensions: 8.5 x 0.2 x 8.5 inches

About Akintunde “Tunde” Sogunro:
Akintunde “Tunde” Sogunro is the director and producer of the award winning inspirational documentary film, Victory. He is excited to be pursuing a career living out his childhood dream by publishing the first book in the Mama Stitches series. He received his Bachelor’s of Arts degree in theater at Southern Connecticut State University in 2011, and is currently a Masters of Fine Arts in creative and professional writing candidate at Western Connecticut State University. A native of Lagos, Nigeria who spent eight years living in Edmonton, Alberta Canada, Tunde now resides in New Britain, Connecticut where he spends time spreading Mama Stitches’ story of hope and love all around his community.

About Halo Publishing International:
Halo Publishing International is a self-publishing company that publishes adult fiction and non-fiction, children’s literature, self-help, spiritual, and faith-based books. We continually strive to help authors reach their publishing goals and provide many different services that help them do so. www.HaloPublishing.com

Press & Media Contact:
Lisa M. Umina, Publisher
Halo Publishing International
1100 NW Loop 410, Suite 700-176
San Antonio, TX 78213 – USA
+1 877-705-9647
contact@halopublishing.com

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New Children’s Picture Book with Stunning Artwork Explores the World of a Hopi Indian Girl

Newly released picture book about a Hopi Indian girl takes readers through many metaphorical doors to explore the different aspects that make each our lives: family, friendship, culture, education, creativity, and nature.

Washington, DC (USA), November 19th, 2015 — Newly released picture book about a Hopi (pronounced: hope-ee) Indian girl takes readers through many metaphorical doors to explore the different aspects that make each our lives: family, friendship, culture, education, creativity, and nature.

TALASI… A Story of Tenderness and Love exposes children to new experiences as Talasi explores her native world and later the modern culture of the white man while holding to Native American beliefs and traditions. This charming and lovingly illustrated picture book teaches young readers how love and friendships get us over the rough spots in life and to never stop exploring the world around them.

Many American children are growing up in a multicultural world and are curious to understand all the cultures surrounding them. “Traveling through Arizona, I was terrible curious myself about what life on an Indian reservation was like when I visited a Hopi tribe,” said author Ellen S. Cromwell. “I wanted to understand the culture of these amazing people and visited with a kikmongwi, primarily a religious leader for the tribe. This experience truly touched me.”

TALASI… A Story of Tenderness and Love is about a young Hopi Indian girl named Talasi. Her name comes from corn tassel flowers that surround her pueblo home in Arizona. Tassels are tall, slender flowers clustered at the very top of corn. Corn, in its many forms, provides basic nourishment for Hopi People.

Wonderfully written, this children’s book clearly reflects the author’s fascination with the Hopi people and their history. Hopi means “peaceful person” or “civilized person” in the Hopi language and Ellen S. Cromwell evokes a compelling portrait of the Hopi Indians and how they truly are a peaceful people. “The richness of Talasi’s Indian culture will expand the horizons of any child who reads this book,” said illustrator Desiree Sterbini. “I researched to make sure every illustration was authentic to the Hopi culture. I wanted the themes of love, family, and friendship to be something each child could relate to. The images are personal as they are from actual pictures of my mother-in-law and daughter.”

With the author and illustrator using personal, real life experiences and pictures to draw from, the book exemplifies what it means to value all cultures that make up the world we live in and that no matter what children can solve problems with love and courage. “A lot of the imagery is from personal experiences. I grew up as an immigrant in the Bronx and remember the neighborhood coming together to build this treehouse for all the kids to play in. It was amazing and we felt like we were on top of the world as kids up there,” said author Ellen S. Cromwell. “Those childhood experiences and what I learned from the Hopi tribe and its culture helped me create Talasi and her world.”

Not only does this picture book have multicultural overtones, but parents and educators will find the author used sight words and repetition to make this the perfect book for classrooms and bookshelves.

“Reading a book together as a family or in the classroom is one simple yet very special tradition,” said Halo Publisher Lisa M. Umina. “Readers of all ages will find this picture book is heartwarming and helps keep you and your children connected through the upcoming holiday season.”

You can purchase “TALASI… A Story of Tenderness and Love” through Halo Publishing’s website (http://halopublishing.com), Amazon, and B&N.

Biography:
Author Ellen Cromwell is the founder of the Georgetown Hill Early Schools in Montgomery County, Maryland and has been an educator of young children since the 1970’s and is the author of three early childhood professional texts including Nurturing Readiness in Early Childhood Education, Allyn & Bacon, 2000. Wiggle-Dee-Dee, Splash Puddle Splash, and Are You Listening, Potbelly? are three recent children’s books she has authored. You can learn more at her website http://www.cromwellsplash.com

Artist, Desiree Sterbini creates award-winning works with oil pastels and colored pencils on textured paper and board. Her sensitive compositions are detailed with vibrant colors and strokes, created by stumps of rolled paper and brush. Women of color, children, the simple lives of ordinary people and nature are her primary subjects. Desiree received a Bachelor of Fine Arts from the University of North Carolina at Greensboro and continues to study through workshops and studio classes. Her oil pastel paintings have been exhibited and featured throughout the DC metro area and nationally including, Embassy of Cote d’Ivoire, Fox News Washington DC Myvoicedc.com, Joan Hisaoka Healing Arts Gallery at the Smith Farm Center, Edison Place Gallery, L’Eclat de Verr Gallery, Sandy Springs Museum, Art Expo Las Vegas and 7 Women from 7 Countries exhibition, Doral, Florida. Desiree’s works have also been on loan in Port Louis, Mauritius Embassy through the United States Arts in Embassy Program. Along with works held in several private collections, Desiree’s talents are commissioned, including illustrated children’s books Splash Puddle Splash and Are You Listening Potbelly? written by Ellen S Cromwell.

TALASI… A Story of Tenderness and Love by Ellen S. Cromwell, publisher Halo Publishing, Int., ISBN: 978-1-61244-420-8; Price: $12.99 (paperback).

Press & Media Contact:
Lisa M. Umina, Publisher
Halo Publishing International
1100 NW Loop 410, Suite 700-176
San Antonio, TX 78213 – USA
+1 877-705-9647
contact@halopublishing.com

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Delightful Children’s Picture about a Tiny Tree Frog Wins Multiple Book Awards

Children’s book author Anita Turnage understands the importance of sharing nature with children. Animals and nature are the perfect medium through which to gently teach important lessons and about the world we live in.

Houston, TX (USA), May 23rd, 2015 — Children’s book author Anita Turnage understands the importance of sharing nature with children. Animals and nature are the perfect medium through which to gently teach important lessons and about the world we live in. In this endearing tale filled with vivid and colorful illustrations by Kim Sponaugle, a little boy named Haden, who loves to catch bugs, shares exciting adventures with Nana T in her garden. One day, while on hands and knees, they come face to face with a tiny little tree frog. Hops begins to visit daily and Haden’s fascination grows as he learns about frogs, what they eat and where they live in the winter time.

“Hops” is based on the escapades of a very real tree frog in author Anita Turnage’s backyard. “I’m an avid gardener and I fell head over heels in love with this little tree frog,” said Turnage. “After several weeks of him following me around the yard and house, and my grandson becoming really excited about our little visitor, I decided to write down the different adventures my grandson and I were having together with our tree frog friend.”

Recently “Hops” won the Conversations Award for the Best Regional Book of the Year (2015), the Loewenherz-Creative Award for Best Children’s Picture Book and the Reader Views Kids Award for Best Children’s Picture Book of the Year (2015).

“I’m very excited and still in shock Hops won so many awards,” said Turnage. “My head has been spinning since receiving the news.”

The criteria for each award is chosen from the first place winners in both fiction and nonfiction, and “Hops” placed first in each award category, honoring the this cute children’s picture book with many gold seals.

“I’m really humbled that so many readers found value in my story,” said Turnage. “However, I really feel I need to share these awards with all those who helped make this book possible, those who supported me through this process, and of course, with my fans as it was a team effort.”

Author Anita Turnage feels writing and reading is something that brings everyone together. She loves sharing ideas and the different events she experiences with her grandchildren while out in nature. She does give a lot of credit to her grandson who was such an enjoyable creative mind to work with as she penned the different events with their little tree frog, Hops.

Halo International Publisher, Lisa Umina said, “Anita is an amazing author and her stories are always full of fun and adventure. Hops is a delightful story that inspires children to explore their natural world, something many caregivers feel is important as children are easily drawn indoors by technology. Hops helps get children and adults alike sharing adventures with Nana T and Haden in their garden during reading time.”

Readers can find “Hops” in the Halo Publishing bookstore ( http://www.halopublishing.com ) or at any online bookstore such as Amazon and B&N. Available both in Hardback and eBook.

Biography:
Anita Turnage, “Nana T,” lives in the Carolinas with her husband, Ralph, “Pop”, and English Setter, Izzie. She retired from corporate life after 27 years and is now a full time wife, mother, grandmother and gardener. The days she savors the most are those spent with her grandchildren. As a gift to her grandchildren, “Nana T” takes pen in hand to recount delightful adventures she shared with them.

To learn more about “Nana T’s” stories of adventure, visit http://www.nanaTtales.com

Hops by Anita Turnage, illustrations by Kim Sponaugle, publisher Halo Publishing, Int., ISBN: 978-1612442266, Price: $16.95

Press & Media Contact:
Lisa M. Umina, Publisher
Halo Publishing International
1100 NW Loop 410, Suite 700-176
San Antonio, TX 78213 – USA
+1 877-705-9647
contact@halopublishing.com

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Award-winning Picture Book Helps Children to Ease their Bedtime Fears

No matter our age, we all struggle when faced with fears and Author Alicia Lloyd has written a picture book for children of all ages, and accompanied by soft and atmospheric illustrations portraying thrills and chills that capture the imagination of children in the dark hours of night.

Oxford, PA (USA), April 23rd, 2014 — No matter our age, we all struggle when faced with fears and Author Alicia Lloyd has written a picture book for children of all ages, and accompanied by soft and atmospheric illustrations portraying thrills and chills that capture the imagination of children in the dark hours of night.

“When the Monsters are Quiet” (published by Halo Publishing, Int.), is a fun way children can start to become proficient readers by reading about one of their biggest worries- bedtime! This book is a reminder never to be afraid of your monsters and has helpful hints for parents to help their children by exploring with early reading strategies at home. This fun book is told from the perspective of a young boy, who hears noises that trigger the scariest images of monsters wondering around his house late at night, until he discovers they are the sounds of his mother getting ready for bed.

“All children at one point in their lives hear unfamiliar and scary noises while trying to drift off into sleep. As soon as they get scared, they start thinking of all these scary things that can happen,” says Alicia. “The main message is just to remember that noises can just be familiar noises, like in this case, your mom going to bed. Being afraid of monsters is common, however; I am hoping my book sends the message to never be afraid of their monsters, no matter what their monsters may be in life.”

Alicia Lloyd’s picture book “When the Monsters are Quiet” is the winner of the 2015 Keystone to Reading Elementary Book Award. The purpose of the award is to stimulate an interest in reading in students from Preschool to Grade 6 and expose them to quality literature. Each year the committee prepares three lists, one for preschool students, one for primary students in grades K-3, and one for intermediate students in grades 4-6. Teachers promise to read to or have their students read at least four books from the appropriate lists. In March the students vote for their favorite and the winner is honored at the Book and Author Luncheon at the annual KSRA conference in October 2015.

“I feel extremely honored and thankful for winning this award,” says Alicia. “I was shocked at first and just happy to be nominated, but winning wasn’t something I expected and I’m ecstatic that so many kids liked my book. The greatest gift is hearing the experience some children have had with my book. I love hearing how they take it to school with them and read my book to their class. My favorite part is hearing how they aren’t afraid of bedtime anymore.”

Besides helping children deal with bedtime fears and build self-confidence, Alicia Lloyd’s picture book helps build upon 1st grade reading levels with phonemic awareness and reading comprehension strategies within the context of the story and in the back of the book parents will find helpful tips so their kids can become star readers.

“My hope is Alicia’s book becomes better known through this award so it can help parents and kids work together to become better readers and writers,” says Halo Publisher Lisa M. Umina.

You can purchase “When the Monsters are Quiet” through Amazon, B&N and Halo Publishing, Int. website. The book is available for Kindle and Nook, and available in 40,000 databases in over 100 countries.

Biography:
Alicia Lloyd is a student at West Chester University of Pennsylvania and is working towards her Bachelor’s Degree in Early Grades Preparation (PK-4) and Special Education. She has a strong passion for working with children and loves to write! She is also a member of the International Literacy Association.

In October 2015, Alicia Lloyd will be out speaking at local libraries in the Oxford, PA area, reading to young children and will be sharing monster tips on her Facebook page.

She invites anyone to contact her through her email: neverbeafraidofurmonsters@yahoo.com or her book’s Facebook page: https://www.facebook.com/whenthemonstersarequiet. Contact the author to share any experience, discuss readings and signings, and get signed copies.

When the Monsters are Quiet by Alicia Lloyd, illustrations by Amy Rottinger, publisher Halo Publishing, Int., ISBN: 978-1-61244-219-8, Price: $11.95

Press & Media Contact:
Lisa M. Umina, Publisher
Halo Publishing International
1100 NW Loop 410, Suite 700-176
San Antonio, TX 78213 – USA
+1 877-705-9647
contact@halopublishing.com

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High School Students Release Children’s Book to Raise Funds for Bridge to Burundi Project

Lieutenant-General Roméo Dallaire and Halo Publishing International Partner with Students.

Hudson, Quebec (Canada), April 11th, 2015 — Westwood High School students have teamed up with Lieutenant-General Roméo Dallaire and Halo Publishing International to release their first children’s book, “Bakuru and the School on the Hill.” The book is a collaborative effort of writing and illustrations between about 30 students, alumni and teachers, along with a forward by Dallaire. The hope is that this book will raise awareness and funds for the Bridge to Burundi, a six-year project where students have been helping a small African village break the cycle of poverty.

The book takes the reader through the eyes of a young girl named Baruru who shows the history and culture of the Burundi school and how education changes the poverty cycle.

“We wanted to tie in global issues and human rights so the book would have a message,” says Nancy Koluzs, who headed up the book project through the school’s Literacy Project program. She’s also a major contributor to the Bridge to Burundi Project.

The idea to write a children’s book started after Halo author Valerie Redmond contacted Koluzs to get involved with the school’s literacy program. Halo Publisher Lisa M. Umina found out about the book project and wanted to help.

“I love giving back,” says Halo Publisher Lisa M. Umina. “Helping students by publishing a book to raise awareness and funds for global issues just made sense to me.”

Westwood teachers say the book will do more than just raise funds and awareness about the Bridge to Burundi Project.

“We believe this book will inspire kids to become active global citizens,” says Peter Nield, another teacher involved with the Bridge to Burundi. “No matter how small your efforts are, we teach students at Westwood that they can have a global impact.”

You can purchase “Bakuru and the School on the Hill” at www.HaloPublishing.com. Funds raised will go toward the Bridge to Burundi Project.

Bridge to Burundi Project:
The Bridge to Burundi Project started in October 2009 by students at Westwood High School as part of their annual Student Life camp. Westwood teacher and native Burundian Jean-Claude Manirakiza gave a presentation to the students on the state of education in his home country. Roused by the story of his life, the students decided to build an elementary school in Rwoga, Burundi. Eight months later, the first classroom opened to 60 first graders. Since then, another ten classrooms have been built, offering free education and supplies to more than 400 students. In addition, the students have raised more than $100,000 to build a medical centre, convenience store, and drinkable water to the village.

Press & Media Contact:
Lisa M. Umina, Publisher
Halo Publishing International
1100 NW Loop 410, Suite 700-176
San Antonio, TX 78213 – USA
+1 877-705-9647
contact@halopublishing.com

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Author Writes Book to Teach Children About Caring For Foster Animals

“The Adventures of Sir Buddy and Mr. Pupples – The Rescue”.

Kill Devil Hill, NC (USA), December 05, 2014 — Author Richard McEwan says that if you teach children how to care for pets, they also learn also how to care for people. That’s one of reasons why he recently wrote the children’s book “The Adventures of Sir Buddy and Mr. Pupples – The Rescue” newly released by Halo Publishing International. Inspired to write because of his grandchildren’s love of books and he and his wife’s love of fostering animals, the book introduces children to fostering a pet and tells a story of the rescue of a lost puppy.

“I hope that when a child sees a stray dog or cat, that they think about the story and how the puppy, Mr. Pupples, was found and saved,” says McEwan. “Once a child finds a stray animal, their next step is to immediately get an adult involved.”

An avid dog-lover who with his wife, Christie, has fostered about 50 dogs over a period of 5 years, McEwan is retired and cherishes their two dogs that they had originally fostered, and a cat that had been a stray kitten. He says fostering animals from your local animal shelter or SPCA is a good way to keep them from being euthanized.

“Pets are great companions. Not only are they fun to be with, they can help you get exercise,” say McEwan who enjoys taking his dogs for walks with his wife. “And, who loves you more than your dog?”

“I think children will love this beautifully illustrated story with a great message about pet care,” said Halo Publisher Lisa M. Umina.

You can purchase “The Adventures of Sir Buddy and Mr. Pupples – The Rescue” at http://www.HaloPublishing.com. It sells for $16.95. McEwan says he has written two more children’s books with the same two characters – Sir Buddy and Mr. Pupples. They will be released at a later date.

Biography:
Richard McEwan retired to the Outer Banks of North Carolina after a long career in sales, marketing and advertising. He lives with his wife, Christie, and their two dogs, Buddy and River, one cat named Oyster and many photos of foster dogs. Together, McEwan and his wife, have three children and four grandchildren. Visit his website at http://www.twodogstales.com and follow him on Facebook at http://www.facebook.com/twodogstales.

Press & Media Contact:
Lisa M. Umina, Publisher
Halo Publishing International
1100 NW Loop 410, Suite 700-176
San Antonio, TX 78213 – USA
+1 877-705-9647
contact@halopublishing.com

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Mother Entertains Children with Stories, Decides to Publish as Books

Released by Halo Publishing International, “Shadow Tears” is the first of a 20-part series.

Grand Blanc, MI (USA), November 08th, 2014 — In the midst of adversity, AJ Tupps told her children stories. It started in 2003 when her husband, Chris, was diagnosed with cancer. She says she had to keep her children entertained during the long car rides, doctor appointments and hospital stays. Today these young-adult, science fiction stories have turned into books. Released by Halo Publishing International, “Shadow Tears” is the first of a 20-part series.

“One day after I had told a story, my son said, ‘Where is this book at I want to read it?’ It hit me so hard that I decided to write it down for my children,” says Tupps.

Tupps says she called the book “Shadow Tears” because when, Selena, the main character who is a Shadow and a Shadow Protector, gets emotional the environment rains. It’s a parallel to the times when Tupps would observe her children looking out a rainy hospital window, she felt the environment was crying for them. She hopes her readers will have fun with the story, but will also take something away from it as well.

“I want them to learn that they can endure anything with a smile on their face,” says Tupps. “You can handle struggles even when you don’t think you can. You are not alone.”

Tupps says her children did and so did she. In 2007, her husband went into remission. Unfortunately, this year he was diagnosed again with pre-cancer. Tupps remains encouraged that her husband will overcome this disease while looking forward to the future. She hopes to release a new book in this series each year.

“These fantasy books are a great outlet for teens to expand their imagination,” says Halo Publisher Lisa M. Umina. “This first book, ‘Shadow Tears,’ combines lessons in unity, overcoming adversity and learning you’re not alone. I really think readers will find this series engaging.”

You can purchase “Shadow Tears” through Halo Publishing for 16.95

Biography:
Currently a resident of Grand Blanc, Michigan, A.J. Tupps grew up in a small farm community in Indiana. In her spare time she enjoys daydreaming, traveling, sunsets, and the outdoors, but most of all spending time with her family. As a young girl, she entertained herself by living adventures from her imagination. Tupps looks at every day as a blessing and another day to make her dreams a reality. She is still in touch with her inner teenager and enjoys the mischief she can get into. She has a Degree in Medical Transcription from the Professional Career Development Institute, and works as an optical technician. She has one adoring husband who joins in her mischief, or is the recipient of it, along with her two loveable children and one hyper dog.

Press & Media Contact:
Lisa M. Umina, Publisher
Halo Publishing International
1100 NW Loop 410, Suite 700-176,
San Antonio, TX 78213 – USA
+1 877-705-9647
contact@halopublishing.com

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Blueprint Bible Lessons for Kids: 52 Lessons for Preschool through Grade 5 By Pam McLagan

BluePrint Bible Lessons for Kids is a curriculum designed to give parents and teachers a framework for teaching Biblical fundamentals.

Houston, TX (USA), June 26, 2014 — BluePrint Bible Lessons for Kids is a curriculum designed to give parents and teachers a framework for teaching Biblical fundamentals. Because of the way the lessons are structured, teachers can use their own creativity to communicate the stories. Sunday Schools, preschools, after school clubs, or homeschoolers can all benefit from the scope and sequence presented.

The book is divided into four sections: each section contains thirteen lessons, and each section focuses on a main topic. The first quarter contains lessons on how God creates the world and chooses a people; the second focuses on Advent and how the people involved were obedient. The third quarter follows the theme of Jesus as our teacher and savior, and the fourth includes the armor of God, the fruit of the Spirit, and some Bible heroes.
The book is also unique in how the author presents the material. First there is the scripture portion which includes the story. This will help both teachers and parents to accurately recount the story to the children. Second is the memory section which connects to three or four lessons. Thirdly, there is the consider section for teachers and parents which gives information or just provides a different outlook on something that the teacher is familiar with. Lastly, our children section deals with new words and terms that the child may not already know.

The author also encourages teachers and parents to teach the material in a style that children will be able to get excited about by using visual, auditory, kinesthetic, and tactile styles of teaching. These styles add rhythm and enthusiasm to the presentation of material. This way kids can be attentive to what is presented and they can learn the lessons better.

What a great book! I will definitely pass the book along to my friend who is homeschooling her children, and encourage other parents to buy the book as well in my church community and in our children’s Bible Study classes.

Rating: 5 stars

Reviewed by: Irene S. Roth

Press & Media Contact:
Lisa M. Umina, Publisher
Halo Publishing International
AP #726 / P.O. Box 60326
Houston, TX 77205-0326 – USA
877-705-9647
contact@halopublishing.com

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Illinois Writer’s “The Magician’s Doll” Earns Children’s Literary Classics Seal of Approval

LaFox, Illinois-based author M.L. Roble is pleased to announce that her book, “The Magician’s Doll,” was recently selected to receive the Children’s Literary Classics Seal of Approval.

LaFox, IL (USA), June 25, 2014 — LaFox, Illinois-based author M.L. Roble is pleased to announce that her book, “The Magician’s Doll,” was recently selected to receive the Children’s Literary Classics Seal of Approval.

The Children’s Literary Classics Seal of Approval is a designation reserved for books that uphold the rigorous criteria set forth by the Children’s Literary Classics review committee, which is comprised of individuals with backgrounds in publishing, editing, writing, illustration and graphic design. Children’s Literary Classics, an organization dedicated to furthering excellence in children’s literature, takes great pride in its role to help promote classic children’s literature that appeals to youth while educating and encouraging positive values in the impressionable young minds of future generations.

“The Children’s Literary Classics Seal of Approval celebrates the qualities I love in great children’s stories, and I am thrilled “The Magician’s Doll” has received this honor from an organization I admire so much,” Roble said.

“The Magician’s Doll” is a suspenseful mystery with a unique storyline and well-developed characters that completely captivate readers. Unique plot twists, interspersed with a bit of humor, help make the book an exciting and engaging read. Subtle references to life messages that teach positive values to young readers are an added bonus.

The story centers on 12-year-old Natalie, who becomes embroiled in a battle between good and evil. Having a psychic for a mother is not really something she wishes to advertise. As uncomfortable as Natalie is with her mother’s unconventional behavior, it’s only natural that she would find it vexing when she begins “seeing” things herself.

Natalie’s life takes an interesting turn when Phillip, the shy neighbor boy, starts hanging around. When they find themselves at a magician’s performance at the circus, Natalie meets the magician’s doll and is drawn into a powerful world of magic and mystery. As the story unfolds, readers will encounter a gripping fantasy that appeals to girls, boys—and even adults.

In addition to garnering the Children’s Literary Classics Seal of Approval, “The Magician’s Doll” has also received national recognition from the prestigious 8th Annual 2014 National Indie Excellence® Awards. The book was chosen as a finalist for the Pre-teen Fiction category, based on overall excellence of presentation in addition to the writing. M.L. Roble is also the proud author of “Encounter Way: A Novella of Supernatural Suspense.” Both of her books are available at Amazon.com and Barnes and Noble.

To learn more about Roble and her work,” please visit http://mlroble.com. For more information about Children’s Literary Classics, visit www.clcawards.org or http://www.childrensliteraryclassics.com

Press & Media Contact:
M.L. Roble, Author
M L Roble.com
LaFox, IL – USA
(630) 400-6794
correspondence@mlroble.com
http://mlroble.com