Tag Archives: self help books

A Community Comes Together in the Delightful Children’s Story “Have You Seen Henry?”

Author Michael Worley has been creating stories and drawing cartoons since he was a little boy.

Dallas, TX (USA), May 13th, 2017 — Author Michael Worley has been creating stories and drawing cartoons since he was a little boy. His imagination has spawned several other children’s stories including “Sonny the Scarecrow”, “The Quiet Giant”, “A Dog’s Tale”, “Everett the Piano” and “Lacey Shoestring’s Amazing Red Wagon Adventure.” In “Have You Seen Henry?” Worley was inspired by an actual possum encounter in his backyard.

“There was something so intriguing and fun about the possum that wandered into my backyard that I couldn’t resist featuring him in a children’s story,” said Worley. “I love animals and how they interact and as I was writing the story of Henry I began to imagine a community of animals within a neighborhood who are willing to work together for a common good.”

Each of the characters in “Have You Seen Henry?” are beautifully brought to life by illustrator Jorge Chiquillo. Worley uses repetition and clever alliteration with each character’s name like Frieda Fox, Amy Armadillo, and Roger Rooster which help children remember a growing number of adorable animals who come to the aide of Henry’s wife, Henrietta. As the story progresses and tensions mount, Worley shows how friends can encourage and support each other even in difficult times.

“I hope children will learn a lesson in the value of friendship,” said Worley. “In my life I have seen first hand the benefits of willing to help others in their time of need. I believe it is an especially important lesson for children to learn from a young age. Rather than finding fault, we should look for ways to come together with kindness, generosity and friendship.”

“Michael has written such a fun story that children will want to read it over and over,” said Lisa Umina, founder and president of Halo Publishing International. “Each page of the story introduces a new character, building a growing community of friends who are on a hunt for the missing Henry. Children and parents will laugh out loud at the conclusion when they discover Henry in the last place imaginable.”

Worley is hard at work creating a new story about an unlikely alien named George the Goon that he hopes will be brought to life in a feature length animated movie. In the meantime, look for upcoming sequels to “Lacey Shoestring’s Amazing Red Wagon Adventure” and the further adventures of Rex the Dog and Rudy the Rabbit from “A Dog’s Tale.”

“Have You Seen Henry?” is now available at Halo Publishing, Amazon and Barnes and Noble, in hard cover for $17.95.

* Halo Publishing – http://halopublishing.com/7t-z/michael-d.-worley.html

* Amazon – https://www.amazon.com/Have-Seen-Henry-Michael-Worley/dp/1612445667/ref=sr_1_1?s=books&ie=UTF8&qid=1493842073&sr=1-1

* Barnes and Noble – http://www.barnesandnoble.com/w/have-you-seen-henry-michael-d-worley/1126325945?ean=2940157570446

About Michael Worley:
The passion for writing stories and drawing cartoons started for Michael Worley while he was just a child. Michael is the author of Sonny the Scarecrow, Everett the Piano, The Quiet Giant, A Dog’s Tale, Lacey Shoestring’s Amazing Red Wagon Adventure, and Have You Seen Henry? Michael owned and operated Pyramid Productions, Inc., in Dallas, Texas for fourteen years. He produced script-to-screen turnkey film and video productions for corporate and commercial advertising. Michael presently owns and operates a successful residential property management company located in Dallas, Texas.

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

Christian Novel “The Yoke” Explores Deception, Faith, and Love

Barnabas Mitchell wasn’t always a Christian. In fact, he had a lot of doubts about his faith. As an attorney, faith in the facts and how to present them for the benefit of his clients took precedence in his life.

Carbondale, IL (USA), December 18th, 2016 — Barnabas Mitchell wasn’t always a Christian. In fact, he had a lot of doubts about his faith. As an attorney, faith in the facts and how to present them for the benefit of his clients took precedence in his life. However, all of that came into question when he met Stephanie Schultz.

“Writing this story has been a many year endeavor,” said author Darrell Dunham. “In fact, the original version that I wrote five years ago bears little resemblance to the finished product. As I spent time with the characters and chronicled Barnabas’ journey to turn his life over to God, the story took on a life of its own. Originally the book was based on some of my own experiences questioning my faith and making the decision to put my life in God’s hands. I wanted to create a story that others who are questioning their faith could relate to. In fact, many of the arguments for resisting God that Barnabas shares were direct quotes from my own discussions with others of faith.”

In “The Yoke” readers will be captivated by the story of Barnabas and his nemesis Bill Cushman, who appears to have everything going for him, but who is truly an evil entity with an agenda that will challenge and frustrate our main character. However, at the core, “The Yoke” is the love story of Barnabas and Stephanie and Barnabas and God.

The word “yoke” was originally associated with oxen or work animals and represented a connection between the animal and the farmer. In this book by Dunham, the yoke refers to a number of the relationships Barnabas has in his life; with Bill Cushman, with Stephanie and ultimately with God.

“I reference my favorite scripture as part of the epilogue,” said Dunham.

“Come to me, all you who are weary and burdened, and I will give you rest. Take my yoke upon you and learn from me, for I am gentle and humble in heart, and you will find rest for your souls. For my yoke is easy and my burden is light.” Matthew 11:28-30

“This is one unexpected ride,” said Lisa Umina, founder and publisher of Halo Publishing International. “If you were expecting a milquetoast story because of the fact that it is a Christmas novel, you are in for a surprise. Highly entertaining and so well written, I encourage those who are people of faith or who are questioning their faith and looking for a good story to pick up “The Yoke”.”

“The Yoke” is now available at Halo Publishing, Amazon. It is available in paperback for $15.95.

* Amazon – https://www.amazon.com/dp/1612445004/ref=sr_1_1?ie=UTF8&qid=1481657302&sr=8-1&key

the-yoke

About Darrell Dunham:
Darrell Dunham practices law in southern Illinois. He has been a Christian for more than thirty-five years. He and his wife, Betsy, have five children and six grandchildren. He wrote this book because he believes that there should be more Christian literature written for the benefit of young adults who are looking for encouragement in their faith journey.

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

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

“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

money-doesnt-grow-on-trees

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

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

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

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

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

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.

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

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

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.

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

“El Lago de los Milagros” A Fantastical Journey Between Good and Evil

Welcome to the two worlds of “El Lago de los Milagros” – the Lake of Miracles – where the eternal struggle between good and evil, and the intense internal battle we all experience, takes on a life of its own.

Jacksonville, FL (USA), November 20th, 2016 — Imagine if our most fantastic dreams came true; if the dragons and fairies that entertain our sleeping hours lived in their own special dream world. Welcome to the two worlds of “El Lago de los Milagros” – the Lake of Miracles – where the eternal struggle between good and evil, and the intense internal battle we all experience, takes on a life of its own.

“I have been a fan of fantasy fiction since reading the Never-ending Story as a child,” said author Paola Sur. “Throughout my life I have been intrigued and entertained by the idea of a world where dreams come to life and the reader can escape into a story of wonder and adventure.”

In “El Lago de los Milagros” there are two worlds; a world of human beings and a universe in which of all of the creatures of our dreams live. Agatha, the great Sorceress of Lubathar, has in her hands the ability to maintain balance, but a threat jeopardizes the fate of the lives of humans and creatures.

“This is such an exciting adventure,” said Lisa Umina, founder and president of Halo Publishing International. “Paola brings the characters to life and will hold readers in the palm of her hand as they experience the struggle between good and evil.”

As readers enjoy “El Lago de los Milagros” they will come to realize the value of dreams, the importance of friendships and the reality that no one is alone; there is always someone there to offer help and support, no matter what the struggle.

Paola has also been creating mini-children’s stories with illustrator Tatiana Williams. Follow Paola on Instagram to learn more: @paobsur.

“El Lago de los Milagros” is available from Halo Publishing as well as Amazon and Barnes and Noble. Get your copy in paperback for $14.00 or as a e-book for $5.95.

About Paola B. Sur:
Paola B. Sur is a Colombian writer and blogger based in the United States since 2002. Mother of two children, lover of football and fiction fantasy, she has written for publications including First Coast Magazine and Ser Padres and was editor-in-chief of Muévelo Magazine. In 2011 she earned the title of Master of Communications at Georgia State University.

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

“I Love Being Me” a Wonderful Lesson in Acceptance

“I Love Being Me” is a joyful, positive book that will encourage readers to celebrate humanity in all its colors.

Portland, OR (USA), November 20th, 2016 — When you look in the mirror, do you like what you see? Liberty Belle does. A rather precocious child, Libby, as she is called, has a joy for life and a level of self-confidence that is contagious. Just ask her friends, a diverse collection of little girls, each with their own unique value, that have come together to have fun and enjoy life. “I Love Being Me” is a joyful, positive book that will encourage readers to celebrate humanity in all its colors.

“Throughout my life, I have had the opportunity to travel and live in a variety of countries around the globe,” said author April Allen. “I have seen first-hand the benefits of diversity. When one has been exposed to a diversity of people they tend to be more well-rounded, better communicators and in turn better leaders. When I became a mother I knew that I wanted to raise my daughters to accept and celebrate the differences that we all have. From this desire was born Liberty Belle, a fun and colorful character who happily points out her friend’s unique differences, while emphatically declaring she loves everything about herself.”

Each of the friends that Libby meets in the book “I Love Being Me” are actually a composite of some of the wonderful people that have been in April’s life from elementary school through law school and beyond. She wanted to honor the friends that have been an inspiration in her real life.

“My hope is that as parents are reading the story of Libby and her friends to their children that it will spark some interesting conversation,” said Allen. “I wanted to create a story that allows children and parents to have important discussions in a healthy, fun and loving way. God created us all and loves us all, no matter our background, color, or ability and hopefully “I Love Being Me” will help foster that inclusive behavior in our readers.

“This is such a special book,” said Lisa Umina, founder and president of Halo Publishing International. “Liberty Belle is a great voice for the next generation as she embraces different ethnicities and races while celebrating who she is and her own uniqueness.”

“I Love Being Me” is available from:
* Halo Publishing
* Amazon
* Barnes and Noble

Get your copy in paperback for $10.95 or as a e-book for $6.95.

About April Allen:
April Allen lives outside Portland, Oregon with her wonderful husband and two young daughters. April loves to learn, travel and to try new adventures! She holds a Bachelor of Arts degree and a Master of Public Administration degree from the University of Washington. She also holds a Juris Doctor degree from the University of California, Hastings College of the Law. April has traveled the world extensively and lived in several countries such as, Guatemala, England, Japan, and Spain. Some of her adventures include, climbing Mt. Fuji in Japan and Acatenango in Guatemala, and trekking the Great Wall of China. April consults and educates institutions on matters of diversity and inclusion.

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

The Christmas Mouse Inspires Families to Create New Holiday Traditions

The latest in holiday children’s literature, The Christmas Mouse, is soon to become a classic that families will read every December.

Oshkosh, WI (USA), October 01st, 2016 — The latest in holiday children’s literature, The Christmas Mouse, is soon to become a classic that families will read every December. Set at the time of Jesus’ birth, we find a tiny mouse and his fellow barn animal friends anticipating the holy birth; but not everyone is excited.

“I wanted to create a story that would put focus back on the true meaning of Christmas,” said Mark Spencer. “There was something innocent and endearing about a tiny mouse being the voice of faith and grace during a time when we can so often be caught up in the material trappings of the holiday.”

The Christmas Mouse is written entirely in rhyme and the illustrations, created by artist Polona Lovsin, beautifully bring to life a camel, goat, donkey, sheep and mouse. Children will be drawn to their sweet faces and the wonderful story as it moves from fear and doubt to faith and generosity.

“I’m an engineer,” said Spencer. “Writing children’s fiction was never even a consideration. However, one day while visiting friends, I noticed a tiny doll house door along their baseboard.”

That little door created a spark of inspiration and over time the story began to take shape in his mind until one final night when it just seemed to flow from his fingertips.

Readers of The Christmas Mouse will be glad that Spencer tapped into that inner child and created this wonderful holiday tale which includes an idea for creating an annual family tradition. The little mouse door plays an important role in the story. It is through the door that the grace of God enters; a door into our hearts. Spencer suggests families might create a simple door, with paper and crayon, to symbolize the spirit of Christmas entering each home. It is a wonderful way to keep the true meaning of Christmas alive.

“This is such a sweet story,” said Lisa Umina, founder and publisher of Halo Publishing International. “And I have it on good authority that these adorable creatures will be appearing in a sequel before too long.”

Early readers of The Christmas Mouse are already sharing their positive comments:
“What a great message of giving and generosity. It is a message that will teach kids a lot of important lessons. Most of all, it will teach kids the true meaning of Christmas so that they could get ready not by expecting gifts but by sharing as much as they can with others, especially those who are less fortunate,” Irene Roth.

The Christmas Mouse is now available in paperback and e-book formats at:
* Amazon:

https://www.amazon.com/Christmas-Mouse-Spencer-Mark-ebook/dp/B01LYWC8W4/ref=sr_1_5?s=books&ie=UTF8&qid=1474928874&sr=1-5&keywords=mark+spencer

* Barnes and Noble
http://www.barnesandnoble.com/w/the-christmas-mouse-mark-spencer/1124662359?ean=9781612444888

About Mark Spencer:
Mark Spencer is currently a Project Director with SEE Inc. with a background in engineering and architectural design. He enjoys foremost his boys, along with firefighting, skiing, snowboarding, and also has an interest in fiction and technical writing. The Christmas Mouse is his 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
http://www.halopublishing.com

Santa’s Secret Wish Offers Message of Gratitude

“K” Stone has done it again. Taking inspiration from her grandchild, Charlotte, Stone has created a new twist on a classic holiday legend; Santa Claus.

San Antonio, TX (USA), September 29th, 2016 — “K” Stone has done it again. Taking inspiration from her grandchild, Charlotte, Stone has created a new twist on a classic holiday legend; Santa Claus. Have you ever wondered what Santa wishes for each year? Santa’s most loyal elf CB and Charlotte discover that Santa’s greatest wish is to receive as many letters after Christmas as he does before.

“I was inspired to write this story after my youngest grandchild, Charlotte, designed a colorful glitter and jewel bedecked thank you card for Santa,” said author “K” Stone. “She showed me her lovely creation filled with gratitude for all of the wonderful presents she had received and wanted to make sure that it was mailed directly to the North Pole. Her pure and grateful heart inspired this story that will hopefully encourage families to create a similar tradition in their home each holiday.”

Santa’s Secret Wish” is the second children’s story written by author and retired school teacher “K” Stone. Her first book, “’The Beach Fairy” was inspired by another true event, this one starring her oldest grand-daughter Georgia and their many treks to the beach.

Ms. Stone is a great believer in families and family traditions. She believes that literature should imitate life and wants to create wonderful memories for her grandchildren. “Santa’s Secret Wish” is a living legacy for her granddaughter and she plans to create a series of children’s stories steeped in family joy and love.

The message of being grateful is universal. “K” Stone’s story “Santa’s Secret Wish” is a great way of reminding children that, while it is fine to ask for what you want, it is just as important to be thankful and let the giver know just how much you appreciate his thoughtfulness. “Santa’s Secret Wish” is sure to become a classic holiday tale that families read to their children every Christmas.

To learn more about “K” Stone and her books, visit her on Facebook at http://www.Facebook.com/TheBeachFairybook.

“Santa’s Secret Wish” is available at:
Halo Publishing:
http://halopublishing.com/6r-s/k-stone.html

Amazon:
https://www.amazon.com/Santas-Secret-Wish-K-Stone-ebook/dp/B01LOES3N6/ref=sr_1_2?ie=UTF8&qid=1473358068&sr=8-2&keywords=santa%27s+secret+wish#nav-subnav

Barnes and Noble:
http://www.barnesandnoble.com/w/santas-secret-wish-k-stone/1124547124?ean=9781612444680

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