Tag Archives: Halo Publishing International

“Money Doesn’t Grow on Trees” Encourages Readers to be Curious and Courageous

December 13, 2016 flashnewsrelease Leave a comment

“Money Doesn’t Grow on Trees” encourages children to be curious about the different ways money can be made and grown.

Ft. Lauderdale, FL (USA), December 13th, 2016 — Before we can save money, we must first make money. “Money Doesn’t Grow on Trees” encourages children to be curious about the different ways money can be made and grown. The main character, Anthony, is interested in understanding where money is made and with the help of his teacher, uncovers a variety of ways money is made and used.

“How often have we said the phrase ‘money doesn’t grow on trees’ never fully appreciating how that might be viewed by impressionable, imaginative children?” asks author Tony Bland. “I wanted to create a book that would help young readers become curious about the opportunities for future income and be inspired to learn more.”

“Money Doesn’t Grow on Trees” is a book about the adventures of a little boy and his desire to learn about the world of finance. It is a story of family values, teacher involvement, and the impact of words on the mind of an impressionable child.

The colorful illustrations, provided by Chad Thompson, help bring to life the ways in which money is garnered and used in our everyday life. Anthony, the main character in the story, understands that money doesn’t grow on trees but is curious as to how money does grow. Together, he and his teacher consider all of the ways in which money is accumulated and used in our life.

“To take care of yourself financially, you have to monetize your intelligence and ideas,” said Bland. “This book is the first in a series that will explore the different ways people can make money. If they are curious, work hard and take advantage of the opportunities that are available, the possibilities for making money are endless.”

“This delightful tale will inspire parents to have important conversations about money with their children,” said Lisa Umina, founder and president of Halo Publishing. “It is a wonderful gift for parents and grandparents hoping to instill a respect for money in their children.”

“Money Doesn’t Grow on Trees” is now available at Barnes and Noble and Amazon, in hard cover for $18.95.

* Barnes and Noble – http://www.barnesandnoble.com/w/money-doesnt-grow-on-trees-tony-bland/1125195031?ean=9781612445137

* Amazon – https://www.amazon.com/Money-Doesnt-Grow-Trees-Bland/dp/1612445136/ref=sr_1_2?ie=UTF8&qid=1480348641&sr=8-2&keywords=Tony+bland

About Tony Bland:
Tony Bland was born and raised as the only son to parents who divorced when he was nine years old. He is now an executive in the financial services industry with an Undergraduate degree in Accounting from the University of Connecticut, and a Masters of Business Administration degree from the University of North Carolina. From an early age, he had a curiosity about business and sees the same curiosity in his twelve-year old son, Anthony.

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
http://www.halopublishing.com

Entertainment

“Acorn Gert and BrotherBert” is a Delightful Tale of Uncovering Our Potential in Life

December 2, 2016 flashnewsrelease Leave a comment

Meet Acorn Gert, a delightful, energetic acorn who loves her brother Bert and their life under a great oak tree. Gert and Bert are happy frolicking in the leaves until their friend, the wise owl, lets them in on a secret.

Cleveland, OH (USA), December 1st, 2016 — Meet Acorn Gert, a delightful, energetic acorn who loves her brother Bert and their life under a great oak tree. Gert and Bert are happy frolicking in the leaves until their friend, the wise owl, lets them in on a secret. They have more potential and will offer more in life than just two sweet little acorns playing in the dirt. “Acorn Gert and Brother Bert” remind us that, just like acorns, we all have seeds of potential, our God-given gifts that are meant to grow into something amazing.

“As the mother of eight wonderful children, each one uniquely their own, I wanted to create a children’s story that would celebrate the individual potential of each child and encourage readers to cherish and nurture their own unique value,” said author Elizabeth Duncan Stretar. “I am hoping parents will be able to use the message of Acorn Gert as a starting point for conversations about potential with their children.”

“Acorn Gert and Brother Bert” is told in rhyme, with a joyful rhythm that children will enjoy and ask to have read repeatedly. The colorful characters, drawn by illustrator Rosemarie Gillen help bring the story to life. At the end of the story Stretar has included additional information to help parents and educators use the story with intention to help discover the untapped talents of children.

“It is important that we talk about the seeds that have been planted in our children from a young age,” said Stretar. “My hope is that the characters will make the story memorable and the importance of discovering each child’s inner purpose becomes a regular conversation with parents and educators.”

Stretar aims help parents nurture their children’s potential and help them grow to become all they were meant to be. To that end, “Acorn Gert and Brother Bert” is meant to be tool to stimulate fun, meaningful conversation between adults and children. It is the first in a series of delightful children’s stories featuring the main acorn characters. In the next edition Acorn Gert – Gets a Brand New Skirt, which will highlight the simple pleasures of playing dress-up and igniting imaginative paly in the lives of children.

“I have so enjoyed working with Elizabeth on this project,” said Lisa Umina, founder and president of Halo Publishing International. “Acorn Gert and Brother Bert is such an important book for parents to read to their children. It is never too soon to encourage our youth to be the best they can be.”

“Acorn Gert and Brother Bert” is now available at Barnes and Noble and Amazon, in paperback for $12.95 and e-book version for $6.95.

* Barnes and Noble – http://www.barnesandnoble.com/w/acorn-gert-and-brother-bert-elizabeth-duncan-stretar/1125157561?ean=9781612445038
* Amazon – https://www.amazon.com/Acorn-Brother-Elizabeth-Duncan-Stretar/dp/1612445039/ref=sr_1_1?ie=UTF8&qid=1479839105&sr=8-1&keywords=Elizabeth+Duncan+Stretar

About Elizabeth Duncan Stretar:
Elizabeth Duncan Stretar, graduate of Fuller Theological Seminary, is a wife, mother of eight and grandmother of sixteen (by mid-2017). She is also a flight attendant who writes on the fly and blogs on a wide range of topics. The author spent the majority of her professional career in the non-profit sector working primarily with teenage mothers through YoungLives; an outreach program of Young Life. She was the first YoungLives National Director responsible for laying the groundwork for the teen mom initiative that today, reaches teen moms world-wide. In 2008, she and husband Frank co-founded the non-profit organization LeaderWithin. “Acorn Gert and Brother Bert” is her first published book. Proceeds from this book will be used to support the ongoing work of LeaderWithin, which exists to help others discover more of who they are, where they are and what they can become. www.leaderwithin.org. www.betsystretar.com

Entertainment

“Mindfulness of Nature” a Dose of Encouragement and Beauty Support Positive Mental Health

December 2, 2016 flashnewsrelease Leave a comment

In the first in a series of books supporting the benefits of affirmation, author Jo Ann Petrucci Andrews offers a collection of beautiful landscape images combined with words of positive support.

Foster, RI (USA), December 1st, 2016 — In the first in a series of books supporting the benefits of affirmation, author Jo Ann Petrucci Andrews offers a collection of beautiful landscape images combined with words of positive support. “Mindfulness of Nature” uses the alphabet as a foundation for presenting encouraging words to help readers focus on the positive rather than the negative in life.

“Sometimes we just need to be reminded that no matter how dark our day is or how negative a relationship may be, there is a ray of positivity if we look for it,” said author Jo Ann Petrucci Andrews. “I wanted to create a book that would help readers remember their strengths, their value and the parts of their life for which they should be most thankful.”

“Mindfulness of Nature” statements of affirmation from A to Z can be used as a daily reminder, an as-needed dose of positivity or even as a family activity to promote a habit of thinking on the bright side of life. Each beautiful image was taken by the author depicting some of her favorite restful spots from the woodlands of New England to the beaches of Mexico.

“I wanted to combine the beauty of nature with encouraging words to help the reader be in the moment,” said Andrews. “There is a gift to be had by focusing on the positive in our life right this moment rather than bemoaning what might have been or worrying about the “what ifs” of the future. Being in the moment is a great way to change the direction of our thoughts which can help us as we view life, relationships, work and every aspect of our day.”

“I keep a copy of Jo Ann’s book within easy reach,” said Lisa Umina, founder and president of Halo Publishing International. “I thoroughly enjoyed the positive messages during the first read through and now I flip through at random and pick a page to help focus my mind during the day. It is a great way to remind me of the blessings in my life.”

Andrews is working on a series of books to follow “Mindfulness of Nature” based on her professional counseling sessions that will inspire, motivate and encourage readers to live in the moment and surround themselves with positive thoughts, positive people and positive experiences.

“Mindfulness of Nature” is available from:
* Halo Publishing – http://halopublishing.com/1a-c/jo-ann-petrucci-andrews.html
* Amazon – https://www.amazon.com/Mindfulness-Nature-Jo-Ann-Andrews/dp/1612445128/ref=sr_1_3?ie=UTF8&qid=1479315461&sr=8-3&keywords=andrews+halo+publishing
* Barnes and Noble – http://www.barnesandnoble.com/w/the-mindfulness-of-nature-jo-ann-petrucci-andrews/1125149851?ean=2940156965397

Purchase your copy as an e-book for $7.99 or hardcover for $15.95.

About Jo Ann Petrucci Andrews:
Dr. Jo-Ann Petrucci Andrews is a marriage and family therapist who helps children and their families recover from grief and loss. She is a licensed mental health counselor, and she holds a Doctor of Education degree. Jo-Ann specializes in trauma-focused treatment for a wide range of issues, including bereavement, divorce, adoption and foster care, autism spectrum disorders, developmental disabilities, co-parenting, and mood disorders. She currently lives on a farm in New England with her husband, children, and animals.

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“Racing the Flame” Combines Faith and Adventure in this Western Children/Young Adult Novel

December 2, 2016 flashnewsrelease Leave a comment

If you have ever dreamed of being a cowboy/cowgirl on a Montana ranch, “Racing the Flame” will transport you out west and take you for the ride of your life.

Jordan, MT (USA), December 1st, 2016 — If you have ever dreamed of being a cowboy/cowgirl on a Montana ranch, “Racing the Flame” will transport you out west and take you for the ride of your life. Set during a drought-stricken summer in Montana on a cattle ranch, readers will meet the Landers family, a tightknit Christian family who have their faith in God in the forefront of their lives. When tragedy strikes, in the form of a raging fire that is eating up thousands of acres of prairie land, their faith is put to the test.

“I wrote this story based on a real life experience we had on our horse ranch,” said author Lisa Phipps. “Just like Jay’s father, my husband was out with the other ranchers fighting the fire day and night. I wanted to create a story that featured our ranch life and the realities we experience while also depicting a family unit that is based on their love for each other and their love and trust in God.”

Even before the fire strikes, the older Landers’ children, Jay and his sister Katy, are introduced to readers as hard working, responsible teens who love their family and enjoy the unique life of herding cattle, riding horses and working in the barn. Readers gain a true understanding of ranch life and how different it is from the typical teen life of walking the mall and hanging out at the local burger joint.

“Lisa has created a wholesome, entertaining story that will capture readers of all ages,” said Lisa Umina, founder and President of Halo Publishing International. “The Landers family is a wonderful example of how family life can be if we live as God wants us to; understanding that relationships are far more important than materials things.”

“Racing the Flame” is beautifully illustrated on the cover and throughout the book by Katie Busch. Katie has a passion for art, especially pencil and clay, but all media are fun for her. She lives in northeastern Montana with her husband and their dog, chickens, and emus. This is her first book to illustrate, however Lisa Phipps and Katie are continuing to collaborate on a series of picture books that will be coming out soon.

“Racing the Flame” is available from Halo Publishing as well as Amazon and Barnes and Noble. Get your copy in paperback for $11.95 or as a e-book for $3.99.

About Lisa Phipps:
Lisa Phipps grew up in west-central Minnesota. She earned her degree in elementary education at the University of Minnesota, Morris and moved to Montana to begin her teaching career in a one-room schoolhouse. She is a runner, a writer, and a Sunday school teacher, but her favorite thing to do is ride horses with her husband and their three children on their Montana cattle ranch.

Entertainment

“The Girl Who Tried to Catch the Moon” Inspires Young Readers to Pursue Their Dreams

August 27, 2016 flashnewsrelease Leave a comment

First time author, Ashby Bland, brilliantly captures the idea of working toward a goal with a simple, yet profound voice.

Ft. Lauderdale, FL (USA), August 27th, 2016 — You’ve heard the quote “if at first you don’t succeed, try-try again.” The main character in this new children’s picture, “The Girl Who Tried to Catch the Moon” brings the idea of being persistent to life. First time author, Ashby Bland, brilliantly captures the idea of working toward a goal with a simple, yet profound voice.

“I want young readers to have the confidence to go for their dreams,” said Ashby Bland, author and recently enrolled freshman at Columbia University. “Too many are quick to tell people they can’t do something; this book was written to encourage readers to set their goals and then persistently work towards achieving them.”

Ms. Bland first penned “The Girl Who Tried to Catch” the Moon when she was just four years old. Over the years she would stumble upon the story and make little refinements but the message always stayed the same. “You can do anything you put your mind to,” said Bland.

People discouraged Ms. Bland from applying to Columbia University, number four on the list of most difficult universities to get into according to the 2016 Hardest to Get survey which ranks 1,349 colleges based on acceptance rates. However, she had a goal of attending college there and set her sights on being accepted. She begins her freshman year this fall where she is studying Creating Writing.

Ms. Bland has been writing short stories, poems and novels since her early childhood and hopes that her first book, “The Girl Who Tried to Catch the Moon” is the start of a series of stories about girls and boys who try different things in their life.

“I know that young readers will be captivated by the colorful illustrations that accompany this inspiring tale,” said Lisa Umina, founder and publisher of Halo Publishing International. “Ashby has written a wonderful story that will help children see that, even if a dream seems impossible, like catching the moon, if you try hard enough you just might be successful.”

“I am excited to see this story come to life and be available for children all over,” said Bland. “I hope young readers are encouraged by this story of having a dream, working hard, overcoming obstacles, and problem solving to eventually see your dream become a reality.”

Certainly for Ms. Bland, this delightful story is a testament to her persistence, problem solving skills and ultimate success.

“The Girl Who Tried to Catch the Moon” is available in hard cover for $18.95 through:
Halo Publishing – http://halopublishing.com/1a-c/ashby-bland.html#the-girl-who-tried-to-catch-the-moon

Amazon – https://www.amazon.com/Girl-Who-Tried-Catch-Moon/dp/1612444962/ref=sr_1_1?ie=UTF8&qid=1471880957&sr=8-1&keywords=9781612444963

Barnes and Noble – http://www.barnesandnoble.com/w/the-girl-who-tried-to-catch-the-moon-ashby-bland/1124420099?ean=9781612444963

About Ashby Bland:
Ashby Bland is an eighteen year old writer and artist from Ft. Lauderdale, Florida. She is currently a freshman at Columbia University in the City of New York. In the future, Ashby will continue to create thought-provoking works of art and literature.

Entertainment

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

August 26, 2016 flashnewsrelease Leave a comment

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.

Entertainment

Author Rebeca Gómez Galindo Combines Romance and Suspense with a Coming of Age Story

March 25, 2016 flashnewsrelease Leave a comment

Ximena Villarreal is the only daughter of the wealthiest banker in Mexico City. Her life seems perfect, her future planned. Existence inside her family’s protective bubble isn’t exciting but it is safe.

San Antonio, TX (USA), March 25th, 2016 — Ximena Villarreal is the only daughter of the wealthiest banker in Mexico City. Her life seems perfect, her future planned. Existence inside her family’s protective bubble isn’t exciting but it is safe. Until the night the bubble shatters and she gets kidnapped. Alejandro Montalban, Ximena’s alienated cousin and the family’s black sheep, throws himself in the quest to rescue her.

“This book is a labor of love,” said author Rebeca Gómez Galindo. “The male lead in the book is inspired by my cousin Alejandro Moreno who lived an amazing life, albeit far too short. This story is a tribute to him and a way for people to remember the great hero that he was.”

In the book Alejandro is there to guide our heroine through a myriad of adventures and experiences as she struggles in the process of growing into an inspirational young woman. Readers have liken the book to a “Romeo and Juliet meets revenge story.” A must-read for the new adult reader, 18-30, however, Kidnapped Innocence is a page turner for readers of all adult ages.

“Rebeca’s story grabs the reader from the first chapter, immersing you in the life of Ximena, and wanting you to know what happens next,” said Lisa Umina, president and publisher of Halo Publishing. “Will Alejandro be able to save Ximena from the kidnappers, or do the fates have something else in store? Trust me; you’ll want to read on to learn their fate.”

Rebeca has been creating stories since grade school and continues to delight readers through a variety of publications. Her first book, a collection of short stories entitled Habitantes de mi Tiempo was published in Spanish. Each story features a character with careers that normally do not have a voice; miners, maids, immigrants. Rebeca weaves colorful stories about each character shedding light on their value.

Meet with the author in person at the book launch party scheduled for April, 28, 2016. The event will take place at UNAM San Antonio from 6:30PM to 9PM at the terrace. 600 Hemisfair Plaza Way, San Antonio, TX 78205

Kidnapped Innocence is available in paperback from Amazon and retails for $12.95.

Paperback: 214 pages
Publisher: Halo Publishing International (March 3, 2016)
Language: English
ISBN-10: 1612444415
ISBN-13: 978-1612444413
Product Dimensions: 5 x 0.4 x 8.5 inches

About Rebeca Gómez Galindo:
Rebeca Gómez Galindo was born and raised in México City. She moved to San Antonio, Texas in 2004. She was awarded permanent residency via an Extraordinary Ability in the Arts Visa classification. Her work has been published in México, Spain and the United States. She’s the former vice-president of the Society of Hispanic and Latino Writers of San Antonio. Her book “Habitantes de mi Tiempo” was featured at the Salon du Livre in Paris, France, 2009.

Entertainment

Halo Publishing Author Miguel Coppedge Meets with President Obama

February 20, 2016 flashnewsrelease Leave a comment

Ten-Year Old Author of “The Adventures of FireMan” Provides Inspirational Example.

Washington, D.C. (USA), February 19th, 2016 — Just like many ten-year old boys, Miguel Coppedge dreams of being a firefighter, an NBA point guard or an author. However, unlike most, Miguel is doing something about making his dreams a reality. Miguel has just published the first in a series of children’s books featuring the super hero Kris Schmoove and his best friend Rico G. The boys discover their super powers and together they defeat “The Destroyer!”

“I really like firefighters and super heroes,” said Miguel Coppedge, who wrote this first book, The Adventures of FireMan, when he was only eight years old. “Superman is my favorite and I wanted to write a story that combined two of my favorite things.”

Since writing his first book, Miguel has visited a variety of local churches, schools and daycare centers to read his book. He has visited the local fire station and read his book to two different fire chiefs.

“That was a great experience,” said Miguel. “I’m afraid of heights but I got to put on a uniform and climb up the really tall ladder. It was awesome.”

He is not only a local celebrity but recently had the opportunity to gain a new fan; one of worldwide notoriety.

“Miguel attended the Day of Service at our local Boys and Girls Club and was surprised with a visit from President Obama,” said Yolanda Coppedge, Miguel’s proud mother.

“I got to sit by President Obama and even told him a joke,” Miguel shared. “He laughed! It was great.”

Shortly after President Obama’s visit, Miguel sent a thank you package to the President and within a matter of weeks received an invitation to visit the White House. Miguel Coppedge took a signed copy of his book The Adventures of FireMan, which is dedicated in part to President Obama, to the White House. President Obama responded with a beautiful thank you note signed, “Your friend.”

“Miguel has always been a fabulous child,” said his mother. “When he sets his mind to something, he follows through. I didn’t even know he was thinking about writing a story until he came to me one night with a notebook and said Here, Mom, I wrote a book.”

“We are so excited to have Miguel Coppedge as part of the Halo Publishing family,” said Lisa Umina, founder and President of Halo Publishing. “He is an inspiration and we know that we are witnessing the beginning of his journey as a successful author.”

Miguel has already written a sequel to The Adventures of Fireman and hopes to have it available in stores later this year.

“You are never too young to do anything,” Miguel told a group of children at a recent book reading. “Always follow your dreams no matter what your age.”

The Adventures of FireMan is available for $20.00. Three dollars from each book is donated to St. Ann’s Infant Home (stanns.org) in Hyattsville, MD which is where Miguel lived before being adopted by Yolanda.

Signed copies can purchased through his PayPal link for $23.00 total ($20 for book $3 for shipping)

* Hardcover: 32 pages
* Publisher: Halo Publishing International (September 25, 2015)
* Language: English
* ISBN-10: 1612443729
* ISBN-13: 978-1612443720
* Product Dimensions: 8.5 x 0.2 x 8.5 inches

About Miguel Coppedge:
Miguel is a 10-year old who loves school and learning new things. Miguel loves reading and writing. Miguel also loves video games and playing sports and basketball is his favorite. Most of all Miguel loves to have fun! Follow Miguel on social media:

Facebook – facebook.com/The-Adventures-of-FireMan-1613791605551507/
Instagram – instagram.com/theadventuresoffireman/
Twitter – twitter.com/miguelcoppedge

Entertainment

The Ultimate Battle Between Good and Evil Hits Bookstores

January 10, 2016 flashnewsrelease Leave a comment

Halo Publishing Author James Chinery Pens Fantasy Novel: Bane & Blessing.

Frankenmuth, MI, January 9, 2016 — Bane & Blessing, the first in a series of fantasy novels by James Chinery was recently published via Halo Publishing International. The main characters, Lazarus, Anselm and Mikal face a variety of challenges, adventures and fantastic conflict when dealing with the realities of a world where not everything is black and white.

“I have been a fan of fantasy and sci-fiction since I was a young boy reading Lord of the Rings,” said James Chinery, author of Bane & Blessing. “I wanted to create a fiction world in which characters are faced with decisions and an understanding that life isn’t always easy. There is good and bad and sometimes the lines are blurred. In Bane and Blessing magic isn’t evil; it is how people chose to use their magic that becomes good or evil.”

In Bane and Blessing one of the main characters, Anselm Van Helflyn, who is a newly consecrated mage of the Antiochim, is sent out on a mission to investigate reports of dark magic being practiced in Askani. What he finds will shake the continent, challenge theologians and threaten the peace between man and elf that has existed for a hundred years. Has dark magic returned to Superion? The Superion Union declares no, but the evidence proclaims a more sinister truth.

“In all my readings over the years, I realized that, with the exception of the Chronicles of Narnia by C.S. Lewis, there aren’t any fantasy adventure books that depict religious leaders and religious beliefs as a positive influence. As a Lutheran minister, I wanted to create a book that wove a fairer representation of religious beliefs while also recognizing that no one person or idea is perfectly good. However, in Bane & Blessing readers will find that the evil characters are truly evil.”

Although the book has only been available for a short time, readers are already sharing their comments via social media. One reader says: “In Bane and Blessing, the author has created not just a story, but an entire world called Superion set in an austere, medieval era. It is an epic story where the actions of the characters matter to the fate of the entire world.”

A reader on Barnes and Noble had this to say: “As the story unfolds, it shows how newly consecrated magician, Anselm Van Helflyn, is sent out on a mission to investigate reports of dark magic that were practiced in Askani. What the magician finds out will challenge everyone including the ordinary person and theologian. It will threaten the peace between man and elf too. It would seem that dark magic has returned to Superion.”

“I really enjoyed working with Jim on his first novel, Bane & Blessing,” said Lisa Umina, publisher and founder of Halo Publishing International. “Jim’s love of adventure in a fantastical world comes alive on the page and his unique background adds an element of history and religion that inspire readers to look for connections between fantasy and reality. I look forward to reading his next installment.”

Bane & Blessing is available via Amazon and Barnes and Noble; $15.95 for paperback and the e-version is available for $6.99.

* Paperback: 300 pages
* Publisher: Halo Publishing International (December 11, 2015)
* Language: English
* ISBN-10: 1612444393
* ISBN-13: 978-1612444390

About James Chinery:
James Chinery is a former occupational therapist and now full-time pastor and chaplain who has always wondered if there were one or two hobbits lurking in his ancestral tree. He lives in Frankenmuth, MI, with his wife, three children and two unruly yet goodhearted chocolate labs. His interests include fishing, hunting, homeschooling, reading and doing his best to live as both sinner and saint.

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
http://www.halopublishing.com

Entertainment

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

November 19, 2015 flashnewsrelease Leave a comment

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).