Tag Archives: middle grade fiction

Off The Itinerary Blog Tour + Giveaway!

11 Aug

Welcome to the Blog Tour for Off the Itinerary series by M. Liz Boyle, hosted by JustRead Publicity Tours!

ABOUT THE SERIES

Title: Avalanche
Series: Off the Itinerary #1
Author: M. Liz Boyle
Publisher: Independently Published
Release Date: September 26, 2019
Genre: Christian middle-grade/YA, Adventure

“Avalanche surprised me with its depth…a 5-star read…” -For the Love of Literature

Five friends. One moonlit summit. An unforgettable journey.

Excitement hangs in the air as Marlee and her sisters join their friends on a daring hike up a Colorado mountain – in the middle of the night. When Sawyer first proposes the idea of a moonlit summit during the two families’ annual backpacking trip, Marlee is terrified but also hooked. Having grown up taking trips to the mountains, they’ve learned a thing or two about hiking, and Sawyer is confident they’ll be back by sunrise. But when disaster strikes, their knowledge, faith, and stamina will be put to the test. Digging out of the cemented snow is the first of many challenges in the coming days, and now Marlee has to trust Sawyer, who, by the way, was the brain behind the dilemma. Will their faith and friendship survive, or will they cave under pressure?

This engaging journey, told by fifteen-year-old Marlee Stanley, captures a timeless sense of adventure. The five young adults strive to exhibit godly character throughout their escapade, but it will take immense strength to hike out of this mess.

“I know that if their journey inspired me, it will certainly inspire others…Boyle has brought YA fans an uplifting, adventurous novel.” -A Baker’s Perspective

PURCHASE LINKS*: Goodreads | Amazon | Barnes & Noble | BookDepository | IndieBound

EXCERPT

With a “Let’s do this!” from Marshall, we headed upward. I was about sixteen steps into the snow when I heard the roar. Before my mind even had time to register the cause of the sound, I cried out in panic. Sawyer shouted to us to run to the side of the ridge, to try to escape the path of the white monster racing toward us. Where was Lydie? What would happen to my dear baby sister? In an instant, a blur of white, I was highly aware of Sawyer and Ellie racing to get to Lydie. I heard Marshall tell me to swim to stay on top of the snow. When the mass swept under my body, I gasped in horror as I felt the powerful force of nature. The fact that snow in an avalanche settles as densely as cement terrified me as I desperately thrashed my arms and legs and gulped air before crashing down, down into darkness.

The next twenty minutes felt like watching a too-realistic movie. I was terrified, and wished it was just a scary movie that I could turn off and forget. Forget the midnight hike, forget being body-slammed by a wall of snow, forget struggling for air. Then I thought of my parents and my sisters, and I decided to use every ounce of strength to see them again. Hearing Marshall’s voice gave me even more reason to fight for life, and when we were all reunited, I felt like we were going to be okay. We had survived an avalanche. Surely we could hike to safety. 

Title: Chased
Series: Off the Itinerary #2
Author: M. Liz Boyle
Publisher: Independently Published
Release Date: June 1, 2020
Genre: Christian middle-grade/YA, Adventure

“Chased would be a great addition to a k-12 Christian school library. Middle schoolers and up will enjoy it.” – Library Lady’s Kid Lit

It’s been a year since Marlee, her sisters, and the Miles boys survived an avalanche. Sure, it was a little embarrassing for them when all the neighbors saw them on the news, but they love being outdoors, and what are the odds that another tragedy would strike this adventurous group? Has anyone calculated the statistics of being hit with two natural disasters? It has to be low, so of course the two families planned to backpack again this summer.

When the teens first meet Thad, a dehydrated hiker on the trail, they give him water and food and help him recover. He seems harmless until he tells them to hike a few extra miles at sunset. Then Lydie finds a hand-drawn map that Thad dropped, and they discover why he is so eager to get away from the Stanley girls and Miles boys. So eager that he starts chasing them.

Now they have to climb up unforgiving ridges, sneak through the night, and – is that thunder and lightning? To make matters worse, Marlee has a nagging worry that her older sister Ellie is preparing to move away from home.

What is God’s plan? How will they get away from Thad before it’s too late?

“…realistic, exciting, and suspenseful…Chased is the perfect sequel to Avalanche. It’s gripping, suspenseful, entertaining, and, best of all, Christian.” -David M., Beta Reader

PURCHASE LINKS*: Goodreads | Amazon | Barnes & Noble | BookDepository

EXCERPT

We all looked at him with surprise, and I must admit I was slightly alarmed. He shrugged and said, “Not everyone in the backcountry is good. Once in a while a person can meet up with a bad group.”

What is he talking about? Backpackers are generally harmless people. Usually we’re stinky, and some hikers are a bit eccentric, but not dangerous. I studied Thad’s face, trying to make sense of his last statement. Did he think we’re a bad group? Or was he making some unusual joke? Sneaking a peek toward Sawyer, I saw that he too was staring at Thad, no doubt having the same thoughts as me. I was struck with a terrifying thought that shocked my mind like a bolt of lightning: could Thad be a threat to us?

Title: Ablaze
Series: Off the Itinerary #3
Author: M. Liz Boyle
Publisher: Independently Published
Release Date: February 25, 2021
Genre: Christian middle-grade/YA, Adventure

“M. Liz Boyle tackles the topic of showering difficult people with grace and forgiveness, making this a must-read for Christian teens. Adventure seekers who loved Avalanche and Chased will fall head-over-heels for the adventure that heats up in Ablaze!” – Author Allyson Kennedy

This summer the Stanley sisters and the Miles boys are excited to hike together again, and now they have the unique opportunity to help two of their ranger friends with an outdoor program in the beautiful Montana mountains.

Marlee has always considered herself a willing follower. Give her a direction and she’s happy to help. Her older sister Ellie is a natural leader, and Marlee is content in her role as assistant.

Marlee and her sisters have been assigned to help with Ranger Rose’s team, and they are savoring the adventure. But in a heartbeat while the group is divided by a few hundred feet, fire breaks out between Ranger Rose and Marlee’s group. In this enthralling finale to the Off the Itinerary series, Marlee must face her fears with courage that only God can provide.

PURCHASE LINKS*: Goodreads | Amazon | Barnes & Noble

EXCERPT

I had never given much thought to the well-known fact that heat rises. But as I gaped at the flames racing uphill toward us, greedily devouring the meadow grass, I realized that the rising heat factoid is a really big deal. Braelynn’s slashing words again clouded my thoughts. Sorry to disappoint you, Mrs. Gunderson. I should never have signed up for this leadership role!

“Marlee, do something!” Reeny shrieked. Sure, let me just unroll the fire hose stashed conveniently in the top of my pack. 


ABOUT THE AUTHOR

M. Liz Boyle is an author, the wife of a professional tree climber and the mom of three energetic and laundry-producing children. She received her Associate’s of Arts at the University of Sioux Falls, where she received the LAR Writing Award for her essay entitled, “My Real Life Mufasa.” Liz once spent a summer in Colorado teaching rock climbing, which she believes was a fantastic way to make money and memories. She resides with her family in Wisconsin, where they enjoy hiking and rock climbing. Liz and her husband have also backpacked in Colorado and the Grand Canyon, which have provided inspiration for her writing. She likes making adventurous stories to encourage others to find adventures and expand their comfort zones (though admittedly, she still needs lots of practice expanding her own comfort zone). She has thoroughly enjoyed working on the Off the Itinerary series.

Connect with Liz by visiting mlizboyle.com to follow her on social media or subscribe to email newsletter updates.


TOUR GIVEAWAY

(3) winners will receive one Off the Itinerary series book (winner’s choice), book swag, and $15 Amazon gift card!

Be sure to check out each stop on the tour for more chances to win. Full tour schedule linked below. Giveaway began at midnight August 9, 2022 and lasts through 11:59 PM EST on August 16, 2022. US only. Items may vary from image. Winner will be notified within 2 weeks of close of the giveaway and given 48 hours to respond or risk forfeiture of prize. Void where prohibited by law or logistics.

Giveaway is subject to the policies found here.

ENTER GIVEAWAY HERE


Follow along at JustRead Tours for a full list of stops!

JustRead Publicity Tours

*NOTE: This post contains affiliate links.

Book Spotlight + Giveaway! — The Baker’s Legacy

2 Mar

The Baker's Legacy JustRead Blog Tour

Welcome to the Blog Tour for The Baker’s Legacy by D. P. Cornelius, hosted by JustRead Publicity Tours!

ABOUT THE BOOK

The Baker's Legacy

Title: The Baker’s Legacy
Author: D. P. Cornelius
Publisher: independently published
Release Date: March 1, 2022
Genre: Middle Grade / Young Adult Historical Fiction

Teen-aged Resistance fighter Liddy has persevered, going toe-to-toe with Nazi officer Keppler. Living out her faith has helped save the Mittendorf family bakery in Berlin.

But now, as WW II is winding down, the city is under siege by the Russians, and the family’s very survival lies in the balance.

The final invasion brings with it an unthinkable atrocity forced upon Liddy. With mounting misfortunes, she questions not only the viability of an unwanted pregnancy, but also her once strong faith.

Meanwhile, Liddy’s sweetheart and fellow Resistance warrior, Marek, who was snatched away from her by the Nazis, has been longing to reunite. Escaping from a gruesome work camp, he strives mightily to find Liddy, but time and again is re-buffed.

The end of the war brings hardship to all. But out of nowhere, the redeemed Keppler, imprisoned in a POW camp, comes back in a most startling way.

Sequel to The Baker’s Daughter, Illumination Award Winner.

PURCHASE LINKS*: Goodreads | Amazon

ALSO AVAILABLE

EXCERPT

“Herr Keppler, I’m ashamed to say it, but I’m so mad at God right now.”

Keppler jolted and stared into her eyes, extending the tips of his fingers again through the barbed wire. His fingertips were so warm. She lingered to maintain contact.

“That’s not all,” she whispered.

“Don’t tell me—can there be something else?”

“I might as well come right out and say it. I’m pregnant.” Her gaze darted to Willy, whose eyes bulged. “It all happened the night the Russians took over Berlin.”

“That despicable Red Army.” Keppler’s grip tightened on the fence, his head wagging in slow motion back and forth.”


ABOUT THE AUTHOR

Douglas Cornelius

Illumination and Moonbeam award-winning author Doug Cornelius hails from the Twin Cities, MN. He began writing after careers at Target, Ameriprise, and 3M. A Cornell University graduate, his hope is to reveal the lives of impactful Christian figures through story, rather than biography. Doug has been married for 45 years and has two children, three grandchildren, cat Selah, and new puppy Scout.

CONNECT WITH DOUG: Website | Twitter


TOUR GIVEAWAY

(1) winner will receive a $25 Amazon gift card plus the winner’s choice of a signed book written by the author
(1) winner will receive their choice of a free signed book

The Baker's Legacy JustRead Giveaway

Be sure to check out each stop on the tour for more chances to win. Full tour schedule linked below. Giveaway began at midnight March 1, 2022 and lasts through 11:59 PM EST on March 8, 2022. Winner will be notified within 2 weeks of close of the giveaway and given 48 hours to respond or risk forfeiture of prize. US/CAN only. Void where prohibited by law or logistics.

Giveaway is subject to the policies found here.

ENTER GIVEAWAY HERE


Follow along at JustRead Tours for a full list of stops!

JustRead Publicity Tours

*NOTE: This post contains affiliate links.

Blog Tour + Giveaway — Finding Uncle Newton And His Nemesis

5 May

Finding Uncle Newton JustRead Blog Tour
Welcome to the Blog Tour for Finding Uncle Newton and his Nemesis by Douglas P. Cornelius, hosted by JustRead Publicity Tours!

ABOUT THE BOOK

Finding Uncle NewtonTitle: Finding Uncle Newton and his Nemesis
Author: Douglas P. Cornelius
Publisher: Gatekeeper Press
Release Date: March 15, 2021
Genre: Middle Grade/Teen Historical Fiction (age 13-17)

She is outgoing, but orphaned. He is introverted, but a world-renowned scientist. Would moving in with Uncle Isaac Newton work? When his head was always in a book or the Bible?

Teen-aged Catherine Barton tries desperately to connect, so seeks a match for her energy in the London coffeehouses. That women were not welcome there in the late 1690’s would not stop her, and she does find promising boyfriend John.

Meanwhile, Uncle Isaac, as new Warden of the Mint, has his own challenges—nabbing counterfeiters, including the notorious, William Chaloner. He enlists Catherine to spy at the coffeehouse, and she welcomes the bond—all until boyfriend John gets implicated in a counterfeiting scheme.

Then a case of smallpox, a pandemic scourge that had killed millions just decades earlier, sends her off to dreaded isolation in the countryside.

And Uncle Isaac’s battle to nab the devious Chaloner turns into a challenging chess match. Will famous scientist Newton be embarrassed by a scofflaw from the street? Will Catherine ever find her true connection?

Based on actual historical events and people. Author is a prior recipient of Moonbeam and Illumination Awards for books for faith-driven teens.

PURCHASE LINKS*: Goodreads | Amazon | Barnes & Noble | Book Depository | IndieBound

EXCERPT

She slumped into a chair at the kitchen table, a plate of raw potatoes her only company. What were they doing there? Oh, that’s right — she’d set them out earlier to prepare for dinner. She stared blankly at those brown harvests of the earth. And now the eyes of a large potato were staring right back at her. Eyes — that’s what they called them, didn’t they? At least back on the farm, she did, but that was the life she was trying to escape, was it not? And now these were the kind of eyes trying to engage hers? How unfair! How dare they? She so craved a different set of eyes looking at hers with much more — eyes that would connect, locking on hers with a sparkling admiration. Yes, locking even with love — at least she could hope for that, couldn’t she?

Summoning the small bit of energy still buried within her, Catherine jumped to her feet and fumbled for a paring knife in the drawer. She grasped the biggest potato — the one so intent on staring at her — firmly in her hand, and after a few determined strokes of the knife, the potato eyes were gone. She took in a deep satisfying breath. Any trace of her former life must be removed.


ABOUT THE AUTHOR

Douglas Cornelius

Illumination and Moonbeam award-winning author Douglas P. Cornelius hails from the Twin Cities, MN. He began writing after careers at Target, Ameriprise, and 3M. A Cornell University graduate, his hope is to reveal the lives of impactful Christian figures through story, rather than biography. Doug has been married for 45 years and has two children, three grandchildren, cat Selah, and new puppy Scout.

CONNECT WITH DOUGLAS: Website | Twitter


TOUR GIVEAWAY

(1) winner will receive a print copy of Finding Uncle Newton and his Nemesis, winner’s choice of another book by the author, and a $25 Amazon gift card!

Finding Uncle Newton JustRead Giveaway

Full tour schedule linked below. Giveaway began at midnight May 4, 2021 and will last through 11:59 PM EST on May 11, 2021. Winner will be notified within 2 weeks of close of the giveaway and given 48 hours to respond or risk forfeiture of prize. US only. Void where prohibited by law or logistics.

Giveaway is subject to the policies found here.

ENTER GIVEAWAY HERE


Follow along at JustRead Tours for a full list of stops!

JustRead Publicity Tours

*NOTE: This post contains affiliate links.

Blog Tour — Freedom’s Call

28 Sep

Freedom's Call JustRead Blog Tour
Welcome to the Blog Tour & Giveaway for Freedom’s Call by Douglas Cornelius, hosted by JustRead Publicity Tours!

ABOUT THE BOOK

Freedom's Call by Douglas CorneliusTitle: Freedom’s Call
Author: Douglas Cornelius
Publisher: Crosslink Publishing
Release Date:
October 1, 2020
Genre: Middle Grade/Young Adult Christian Historical Fiction

Just moments earlier, the steamboat at Brady’s command had rounded the Mississippi river-bend effortlessly. But then a sudden explosion causes fourteen-year-old Brady to fail his cub-pilot test, shattering his dream. What’s more, the explosion takes the life of a family member, and now revenge grabs hold of Brady’s heart. He blames a black deck hand, William Wells Brown, who flees and becomes a fugitive slave.

Brady reluctantly takes an apprentice job for abolitionist newspaperman Elijah Lovejoy. Would Lovejoy’s Christian message soften Brady’s heart? Or would his fondness for mixed-race office mate Charlotte? Brady remains conflicted, and spirals to a new low.But when an angry mob seizes Lovejoy’s printing press and dumps it in the river, Brady is called to escort a new press via steamboat along the river that Mark Twain would make famous. Danger lurks around every bend, whether from river pirates or pro-slavery thugs.

When Lovejoy’s fate is in the hands of an enraged mob, will Brady become more than a champion of freedom of the press? Will he ever meet up with Brown again? What role will Charlotte play?

Based on true stories featuring the lives of two noted figures of the pre-Civil War era: Elijah Lovejoy, Christian newspaper abolitionist, whom Lincoln knew, and William Wells Brown, a fugitive slave who became a famous author documenting the plight of the slaves.

PURCHASE LINKS*: Goodreads | Amazon | Barnes & Noble | Book Depository | Christianbook

 

EXCERPT

Several minutes later, Brady heard the command. “Larboard, son, strong larboard. Lively now . . . lively. Snatch it. Don’t dillydally.”

The pilot’s breathing grew heavier.

As he cranked hard left on the wheel, Brady felt a rush when the huge wayward whale at his command responded. But it seemed in slow motion. When will that tail ever come around? Ah,here she comes. Here she comes.

“All right now,” Pilot Avery said firmly. “You’ve got to start straightening her out. Come on back starboard with that wheel. Easy now . . . easy. You were a little late with that, but we’re OK.” Brady took a quick glance back. Pilot Avery rubbed his bushy eyebrows and lifted his hat, running a hand through his short graying hair.


ABOUT THE AUTHOR

Douglas Cornelius

Douglas Cornelius is retired from business careers at Target, Amex, and 3M. Except for two short years teaching in Alabama, he is a life-long resident of the Twin Cities, where winters are far more tolerable than common folklore dictates. His love of writing historical fiction came late in life—no doubt from creative urges fostered early by his inventive father, and now unbound from the shackles of the business world.

With his writing, Doug gravitates to story that reveals history, as that is the most interesting way to comprehend it. A fast-paced tale with strong characters revealing a loving and gracious God triumphs any day. Hence, Doug tries to provide quick reads with meaningful glimpses of times past—stories of faith and life that transcend their historical timelines. Hopefully, they will linger in minds longer than the time it takes to read them, as therein lies success.

A graduate of Cornell University, Doug currently serves on the Board of the Minnesota Inventors’ Hall of Fame, and when not writing, may be found in middle-school classrooms, inspiring kids to become inventors, or speaking on behalf of Feed My Starving Children. He has been married over 44 years to wife Leslie, with children Brian and Cristina, and three grandchildren.

Two of Doug’s previous books are Award-winners:

  • 2018 Illuminate – Juvenile/YA Fiction – Silver Award for The Baker’s Daughter: Braving Evil in WW II Berlin (LPC Publishing).
  • 2017 Moonbeam Children’s – YA Fiction-Religion – Silver Award for Da Vinci’s Disciples.

CONNECT WITH DOUGLAS: Website


TOUR GIVEAWAY

(1) winner will receive a $25 Amazon gift card and a print copy of Freedom’s Call!

Freedom's Call JustRead Giveaway

Be sure to check out each stop on the tour for more chances to win. Full tour schedule linked below. Giveaway will begin at midnight September 28, 2020 and last through 11:59 PM EST on October 5, 2020. Winner will be notified within 2 weeks of close of the giveaway and given 48 hours to respond or risk forfeiture of prize. US only. Void where prohibited by law or logistics.

Giveaway is subject to the policies found here.

ENTER GIVEAWAY HERE
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Follow along at JustRead Tours for a full list of stops!

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*NOTE: This post contains affiliate links.

The Cracking of Monday Egg Blog Tour

25 Nov

The Cracking of Monday Egg JR Blog Tour
Welcome to the Blog Tour & Giveaway for The Cracking of Monday Egg by B.T. Higgins, hosted by JustRead Publicity Tours!

ABOUT THE BOOK

The Cracking of Monday Egg by B.T. HigginsTitle: The Cracking of Monday Egg
Author: B.T. Higgins
Genre: Middle Grade Fiction
Release Date: November 21, 2019

An Egg World Allegory

The Maker created Monday Egg for a very important reason. Monday just doesn’t understand it yet. Being an egg with arms and legs has its advantages. Monday can run like the wind and climb trees easily, but he is an egg. What happens when he cracks?

The Cracking of Monday Egg is the story of a cranky crow, a sick little girl, a kind squirrel, and Monday’s struggle to deal with his own crackability.

PURCHASE LINKS*: Goodreads | Amazon | B&N | Book Depository | Christianbook

 

EXCERPT

A rush of wind pressed the new spring grass against the ground, and in that moment Monday Egg dropped. The bump woke him up. He’d never felt before, so the non-violent drop really caught his attention. 

“I don’t like that,” Monday Egg decided. “I don’t like it at all.” 

Then the wind pulled back and the young grass rose up around him. Monday watched the green sprigs sway in the natural wind and he decided he liked the green grass and big blue above it. 

“This. I am sure that I like this.” 

As the morning sun rose Monday Egg listened to the sounds of the world. Birds chirping, bugs crawling, leaves whispering, and one more thing. A distant thing. It sounded like a voice, low and calm. 

“I like that sound.” Monday Egg confirmed. 

“Good Morning,” said the voice. 

Monday Egg looked around and saw no Body, but the voice was clearly some Body. 

“Hello,” whispered Monday, “I like the green grass and big blue.”

“Sky. The big blue Sky.”

 “Yes. It is wonderful.”

“You have excellent taste. The sky is one of my favorite things too,” said the low voice.

“When I look at it closely, it seems to swallow me up completely.” Monday Egg thought about it for a moment. “Is that normal?”

“That is what the sky is designed to do. Swallowing you up. Taking your breath away. Calming your yolk,” said the voice.

“What is a yolk?” 

“It is your inner part. The part that can feel the big, blue sky. Your yolk is especially big, so you can feel the sky more than others. Don’t forget to enjoy the sky, Monday Egg.”

“Oh. How could I forget,” said Monday Egg, and then fell softly into a mid-day nap.  


ABOUT THE AUTHOR

B.T. Higgins

 

B.T. Higgins lives in the wild urban jungles of Alaska with his wife and four children. As you might expect, he is an avid fan of long naps and noise-canceling headphones. He has been a garbageman, a propane technician, a teacher, a tutor, a musician and an exotic-bird-cage scrubber, but writing stories is, by far, his favorite job.

CONNECT WITH B.T.: Facebook


TOUR GIVEAWAY

(1) winner will receive a $10 Amazon gift card & free collection of short stories by the author!

The Cracking of Monday Egg JustRead Giveaway

Be sure to check out each stop on the tour for more chances to win. Full tour schedule shown below. Giveaway will begin at midnight November 22, 2019 and last through 11:59 PM EST on November 29, 2019. US only. Winner will be notified within 2 weeks of close of the giveaway and given 48 hours to respond or risk forfeiture of prize.

Giveaway is subject to the policies found here.

ENTER THE GIVEAWAY HERE


 

Follow along at JustRead Tours for a full list of stops!

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*NOTE: This post contains affiliate links.

Children’s Corner — The Heart Changer

11 Jul

I get along with a whole lot of help from my friends! One of my best book buddies helps me out with guest reviews from time to time. Carrie is a great elementary school teacher who takes reading very seriously. If I had had her in school, she would have been my favorite teacher! She recently read Jarm del Boccio’s MG historical novel, The Heart Changer. Thanks, Carrie, for helping me and my readers today!

Can an Israelite captive, wrenched from all she loves, serve the very man who destroyed her village?

Miriam is asked to do the impossible: serve the wife of Naaman, commander of the Syrian army. Clinging to treasured memories of home and faith, Miriam faces captivity with worry and bitterness. Little does she know the Heart Changer is wooing and preparing her for a greater mission far beyond what she could imagine.

This middle-grade historical novel reflects the heartache and angst of a young refugee in a foreign land where all hope seems lost.

Jarm  Del Boccio (‘J’ pronounced as a ‘Y’) finds her inspiration in everyday life, but in particular, when she travels the globe, observing the quirky things that happen along the way. Focusing on lives of characters from the past, Jarm is devoted to breathing new life into the pages of history.

Jarm has a background in elementary and high school education, and served for seven years as a school librarian. Grateful for the opportunity, she taught three missionary kids in an isolated area of Papua New Guinea. She is part of SCBWI and American Christian Fiction Writers, and has published articles in “The Old Schoolhouse” magazine.

The Heart Changer, her debut MG historical/biblical fiction, released with Ambassador International April 26th 2019. Jarm is content with the journey God has placed her on, and lives with her husband and adult son and daughter (when they are not away) in a tree-lined suburb of Chicago.

CONNECT WITH JARM: Website | Facebook | Twitter

Carrie’s Thoughts:

The Heart Changer is a Biblical fiction book based on an unnamed girl from 2 Kings. Jarm Del Boccio adds names to create a story of the young girl taken from her home and made to serve Naaman’s wife. As she tries to adjust to her new life she struggles with the God she has always served — but has she truly trusted in Him? Through the fears and unknowns in a new land without family and friends to support her, Miriam learns to trust in Jehovah completely and tells of His miracles to her mistress. Through these conversations her faith is renewed and strengthened and she not only learns to trust but helps Naaman in a powerful way, both physically and spiritually.  Miriam faces many questions and struggles that people in present times face, not only religion, but dealing with people and helping others, making this book relatable in numerous ways. The Heart Changer will challenge its readers to go back to several Old Testament places to reread stories and see just how powerful our God truly is.

Audience: middle grade readers.

To purchase, click HERE. (It is currently 99 cents on Kindle!)

(Thanks to the author for a complimentary copy. All opinions expressed are mine alone.)

 

Book Spotlight (+Giveaway!) — The Heart Changer

21 May

 

Welcome to the Blog Tour & Giveaway for Heart Changer by Jarm Del Boccio with JustRead Publicity Tours!

ABOUT THE BOOK

Title: The Heart Changer
Author: Jarm Del Boccio
Publisher: Ambassador International
Release Date: April 26, 2019
Genre: Middle Grade Biblical Fiction

Can an Israelite captive, wrenched from all she loves, serve the very man who destroyed her village? Miriam is asked to do the impossible: serve the wife of Naaman, commander of the Syrian army. Clinging to treasured memories of home and faith, Miriam faces captivity with worry and bitterness. Little does she know the Heart Changer is wooing and preparing her for a greater mission far beyond what she could imagine.

This middle-grade historical novel reflects the heartache and angst of a young refugee in a foreign land where all hope seems lost.

PURCHASE LINKS*: Goodreads | Amazon | B&N | Book Depository | Christian Book

 

EXCERPT

“RUN! RUN, MY DAUGHTER! DON’T let them see you!” Miriam’s mother cried in alarm, shielding baby Zacchaeus in her long robes. She watched, helpless, as her precious child ran to escape the oncoming invasion.

Picking up her skirts, the young girl fled down the center of the Shunem town market, following the frantic path of others, terror- stricken by the billowing clouds of dust gathering in the distance. As the villagers ran for their lives, baskets of fruits and vegetables, nuts and spices were carelessly scattered on the parched ground. Carts of fish and goat’s cheese were upset, the sound of splintering and cracking adding to the mayhem as striped awnings ripped from their doorframes. Goats and sheep scattered, and those who could not be freed from their leads bleated in fear. Shouts of the Syrian army, and the sound of clomping horse’s hooves on the stone pavement signaled the enemy’s advance. Cries and screams escaped from the villagers as they dropped a trail of precious belongings in their flight. A keepsake and a fresh loaf of bread meant nothing. Only their lives mattered now.

Miriam eyed another overturned cart, its sweets scattered in the dust, and swiftly darted behind it to evade the soldiers’ haunting advances. She covered her face with the cloth from her head covering, tucking it in to hide her maturing face. Heart pounding, she took a deep breath, pressing her head against the rugged wood, praying no one had seen her. At twelve, who knew what the enemy would do if they caught her? Miriam shuddered as she heard the screams of women and children running past. She wiped her palms and forehead with the hem of her skirts, and shut her eyes tightly, trying to block out the horrifying scene.


ABOUT THE AUTHOR

Jarm  Del Boccio (‘J’ pronounced as a ‘Y’) finds her inspiration in everyday life, but in particular, when she travels the globe, observing the quirky things that happen along the way. Focusing on lives of characters from the past, Jarm is devoted to breathing new life into the pages of history.

Jarm has a background in elementary and high school education, and served for seven years as a school librarian. Grateful for the opportunity, she taught three missionary kids in an isolated area of Papua New Guinea. She is part of SCBWI and American Christian Fiction Writers, and has published articles in “The Old Schoolhouse” magazine.

“The Heart Changer,” her debut MG historical/biblical fiction, released with Ambassador International April 26th 2019. Jarm is content with the journey God has placed her on, and lives with her husband and adult son and daughter (when they are not away) in a tree-lined suburb of Chicago.

CONNECT WITH JARM: Website | Facebook | Twitter


TOUR GIVEAWAY

(1) winner will receive 1 print (US only)
AND
(1) winner will receive 1 ebook (open internationally except where prohibited by law)

Enter via the Rafflecopter giveaway below. Giveaway will begin at midnight May 20, 2019 and last through 11:59 pm May 27, 2019. US only. Winners will be notified within 2 weeks of close of the giveaway and given 48 hours to respond or a new winner will be chosen.

Giveaway is subject to the policies found here.

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Follow along at JustRead Tours for a full list of stops!

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Res-Q Tyler Stop Blog Tour (+Giveaway!)

24 Apr

 

Welcome to the Blog Tour & Giveaway for RES-Q Tyler Stop by June McCrary Jacobs with JustRead Publicity Tours!

ABOUT THE BOOK

Title: RES-Q Tyler Stop
Series: Tyler Stop, Book 1
Author: June McCrary Jacobs
Publisher: JMJ Story Stitcher Books
Release Date: April 22, 2019
Genre: Middle Grade Historical Fiction

It’s the summer of 1968 in Sonoma County, California, and eleven-year-old Weston Gregg and his nine-year-old sister, Wendy, are looking for fun things to do during their summer break from school. When they discover some abandoned rabbits, they hatch an idea to make a positive difference for animals and people in their small town of Tyler Stop.

They decide to form ‘Rescue Each Species-Quickly’, or RES-Q Tyler Stop.

There are challenges to face as they move forward into their new venture, including standing up to someone who is targeting Weston’s friends for being different and a painfully bad decision.

Will Weston have to handle these issues on his own or will he learn to accept the advice and wisdom shared by some important people in his life? Join Weston and his family and friends as they share some adventures and learn and grow together in RES-Q Tyler Stop.

 

PRAISE FOR THE BOOK:

“Adventure has no end in this tale, where a heart for animals inspires and surprises await around every bend. . . . The characters and the situations they face come across realistic, and the scenes develop naturally. Not only does the author keep a nice paced plot rolling along but adds interesting and practical information about animals and ways to handle certain situations along the way. It makes for a fun mix of fiction and fact.

This appears to be the first book in the series, and I’m eager to see where the RES-Q Tyler Stop adventures will head to next.” ~ Tonja Drecker, Author of Music Boxes

PURCHASE LINKS*: Goodreads | AmazonBook Depository

 

EXCERPT:

CHAPTER FOUR

The Rescuers

Weston and Wendy took care of the foster rabbits and their own pets for the next two days. The rabbits didn’t overheat again. On the third morning, Weston and Wendy were out weeding the family’s garden when they heard a car turn into the gravel driveway. 

“I wonder who they are?” Wendy asked.

Weston shrugged his shoulders and ran over to the car. “Hi. Are you lost?” he asked the driver when the man pulled to a stop.

“Is this the Gregg family property?”

“Yes. Who are you?”

The man opened his car door and stepped out of the car. Weston peeked inside and saw three children in the backseat and a woman in the front seat. None of them looked familiar. The man stepped forward and held out his hand to Weston.

“I’m Preston McIntire. My wife is Delores and my children are Patty, Sally, and Johnny. I heard from Mrs. Fletcher at the fairgrounds that you’ve been taking care of my kids’ rabbits since we were unable to pick them up from the fairgrounds on time.”

Weston shook the man’s hand and smiled. He leaned down and waved at the rest of the family sitting in the car. “I’m Weston. I’m eleven. We’ve been taking really good care of your rabbits for you. They’re doing fine.” Wendy ran over to the car to see what was going on. “This is my little sister, Wendy. She’s nine. She’s been helping with the rabbits, too.”

“Thank you both for all you’ve done. My kids would be devastated if anything happened to their bunnies. We’re ready to take them back home to their hutches. If you’ll show me where they are, we’ll load them in the back of the station wagon and be on our way.”

“Let me get my Dad,” Weston said as he headed toward the house.

In a couple of minutes, Weston emerged with Glen Gregg following close behind.

“Hello, I’m Glen Gregg. Nice to meet you.” 

“I’m Preston McIntire. It’s a pleasure to meet you, too. Sounds like you’ve got some fine children here.”

The two men shook hands, and then Mr. McIntire opened the swing gate at the back of the station wagon so they could unload the pet carriers for the trip home. Within fifteen minutes, the rabbits were loaded into their own carriers and were reunited with their family.

The McIntire children jumped up and down with excitement as they counted the rabbits and made sure everyone looked happy and healthy. Johnny stood in front of the carriers and spoke in a quiet voice. “You’re all going to get an extra carrot for a treat when we get home.” 

Everyone chuckled, and Mr. McIntire grinned at the Greggs. “We’d like to repay you for your kindness in some way. Mrs. Fletcher told us about your pets, so we brought along some bags of dog, cat, and rabbit food as a token of our appreciation. We know from experience feeding six rabbits is not cheap.”

“Thanks,” Wendy and Weston said in unison.


ABOUT THE AUTHOR

‘RES-Q Tyler Stop’ is June McCrary Jacobs‘s first middle-grade book. June is a retired elementary school teacher and literacy mentor who is fond of California history and children’s literature. She especially loves to write, read, and blog about middle-grade fiction and non-fiction on her ‘Reading, Writing & Stitch-Metic’ blog.

In addition to writing inspirational romance books and stories for adults {A Holiday Miracle in Apple Blossom, 2013; Robin’s Reward, 2015; Handmade Hearts, 2019}, June’s original sewing, quilting, and stitchery designs have been published in over one hundred books, magazines, and on sewing industry blogs in the past decade.

When she’s not writing, reading, blogging, or sewing, June enjoys cooking, walking, visiting art and history museums, and touring historic homes and gardens.

One of her most memorable and thrilling childhood adventures was her ride in the Goodyear blimp as it floated over Long Beach, California. She can still remember the people on the beach waving to her as she zoomed past them.

LOOK FOR MORE TYLER STOP BOOKS COMING SOON!

 

CONNECT WITH JUNE: Blog | Facebook | Goodreads | Goodreads Blog | Amazon


TOUR GIVEAWAY

(1) winner will win

  • $20 Amazon gift card (US/International)
  • Signed Paperback Copy of RES-Q Tyler Stop (US only) or Digital Copy (International)

Enter via the Rafflecopter giveaway below. Giveaway will begin at midnight April 22, 2019 and last through 11:59 pm April 29, 2019. US only. Winners will be notified within 2 weeks of close of the giveaway and given 48 hours to respond or a new winner will be chosen.

Giveaway is subject to the policies found here.

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Follow along at JustRead Tours for a full list of stops!

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Book Spotlight: A Plague of Unicorns

18 Sep

Here’s a middle reader I think you might be interested in. I have not read it, but it looks quite interesting. I will be giving it to a my friend and 4th grade teacher, Carrie, to see what she thinks. (Per the press release it meets Common Core standards.) In the meantime, have a look at A Plague of Unicorns.

746485Young James, an earl’s son, is a bit bothersome and always asking the oddest questions. In despair—the last of James’ tutors having quit—his mother sends him off to be educated at Cranford Abbey. She feels the strict regimen will do him a world of good. But Cranford Abbey has its own problems. It has been falling into disrepair. The newly appointed Abbot Aelian takes it upon himself to save the abbey with the use of his secret weapon: a recipe for golden apple cider passed down in his family for many generations. He believes that by making and selling the cider, the monks will raise necessary funds to restore the abbey to its former glory. Abbot Aelian has everything he needs—almost. One obstacle stands in his way, unicorns that happen to feast specifically on the golden apples. Abbot Aelian and his men must fight off the unicorns to make the cider. He and the monks try to form a battalion to fight off the beasts; next they import heroes to fight for them. But the heroes run off, monks are injured, and a herd of ravenous unicorns continue munching. After no success, the abbot finally calls upon the most unlikely of heroes, one suggested by no other than young James. That hero is small and unprepossessing but possesses the skill to tame the beasts. Though wildly skeptical, Abbot Aelian must risk everything and believe in this recommended stranger or risk the fall of Cranford Abbey.

 

frontpage2Jane Yolen is an author of children’s books, fantasy, and science fiction, including Owl Moon, The Devil’s Arithmetic, and How Do Dinosaurs Say Goodnight? She is also a poet, a teacher of writing and literature, and a reviewer of children’s literature. She has been called the Hans Christian Andersen of America and the Aesop of the twentieth century.

 

(Thanks to Zondervan for a copy of A Plague of Unicorns.)

To purchase this book, click on the image below.