The Dos of Promoting Your New Indie Children’s Book

The self publishing road is never easy. In the past, I noticed a note of distain in some people if I happened to mention my book was self published. At many writing conferences, mentioning you were self published would be the first step before getting a traditional publisher.

But these days, the rules are changing. What matters is that you published a good book that people want to read. The hard part is getting the word out about your book. It’s all a new frontier. Since the rules are being rewritten, I’m keeping track of my round three try at promotion, and seeing what sticks. It all could be new additions to the rulebook.

I’ve been self-publishing my books since 2005. I’ve learned a lot of dos and don’ts, and really put together a well thought out third book with a freelance editor and illustrator. With my previous book, I’d learned a lot of how to promote and where not to promote. This time around, I’m following as many dos as possible, and picking up a few new dos along the way.

Accepting the Honorable Mention Award for Children’s Books at the San Francisco Book Festival 2013

My second book didn’t win awards or get as much notice as I would like. It might have been because I was still learning. It got reviews, some mentions on reader blogs, and helped some people to continue with the fantasy series I’ve created. I think of it as a bridge to understanding in many ways. It helped lead to a greater understanding of where to promote for my next book.

With the release of my third book, The Lost Secret of Dragonfire, I decided to try some new areas to promote, awards, and target areas that welcomed self published books. I talked to local bookstores, and found a very receptive owner that immediately welcomed me into her Indie community. I felt that this new approach was starting to finally be my niche.

I entered the deadlines for Indie awards in the spring using a fellow blogger award list. I won honorable mention in the San Francisco Book Festival. In mid May, I drove to San Francisco for the weekend, and accepted my first literature award. I am since working with the promotional company to get the word out about my win, and of course, have a seal to affix to my third book.
While having a conversation with Bruce Haring, the marketing manager of the SF Book Festival, he pointed out, “Ahh, you’re the author that plays the harp.” Immediately I realized that just being an author or a teacher wasn’t making me stand out as an author. It was that I played the Gaelic Harp that was making me stand out from the crowd.

Lead into my first book signing for the third book at Booksmart in Morgan Hill, CA. I had already plastered the flyers with the fact I would play the harp, read from my new book, and answer some Q and A about the Crystal Keeper series. I was greeted by the owner warmly when I entered, with a table and all my books set up. There was a regular crowd, some of my diehard fans, and those people that had come in from the heat for ice cream.

Tiffany Turner signing her third book, The Lost Secret of Dragonfire, at Booksmart in Morgan Hill, CA.

I started with playing the harp including walking around the store to let people know about the talk going on. I did mention about how I play at Renaissance Festivals, which helped me make a connection with people that had attended.

Now, most of the people I was speaking for were children and their parents. So, I preceeded into a prior knowledge questioning strategy before my read aloud, and then read a part of the new book that fit that audience. Yes, it was a very teacher thing to do, but I find using some teaching strategies during book talks works very well during my author talks to my readers, usually ages 8-12.

The turn out sold 22 books at last count. This is considered a good turn out, and I had a lot of fun. I even had one parent ask about speaking at their school and trying to get kids interested in books. Of course, this is my middle name, wanting to get kids interested in books. I gave her my card, and said we’ll talk about how I can help with that, explaining that I was mostly available for talks in the evening.

So, what has this Indie author learned about promoting her book in this round 3 event? Pretty much, the best way to promote a book is to start with yourself. What can you give to a signing or event? You also have to start with a good book. Get that editor and illustrator to help. Then, when it comes time for promotion, don’t think in terms of just your book, but yourself as an author. Promote yourself with your new book.

The one thing I had trouble realizing was that it wasn’t the book but the author that needed promotion. You will write more books. If you get a following for yourself, then the readers will come. But they come back for you and your new book.

Plus, don’t go down the roads that deny self-published books. If you book is a good book, you will be read and accepted as the good book it is. A lot of websites or awards will specialize in self-published books. There is a community forming on the new frontier, the internet. Figure something to promote yourself, some tie in or skill you might have to go with your book, you’ll get noticed out of the tidal wave of new books released. Getting yourself noticed is hard, but having the tools and reliance in yourself will get the work done for you. Remember, if you’re self published, there is the Indie book store and self published community that has grown over the years to help. Come find us. We’ll play!

Here are some links to start:

Groups for Independent Authors

1)Association of Independent Authors-Authors Group

http://www.independent-authors.org/

2)Indie ReCon-Great Online Resource and Writing Conference

http://www.indierecon.org/

Indie Award Links

3) Independent Publisher Book Awards (Ippy Awards)

https://secure.independentpublisher.com/ipland/IPAwards.php

4) Indie Excellence Awards

http://www.indieexcellence.com/

5) San Francisco Book Festival

http://www.sanfranciscobookfestival.com/

In the end, there is a lot out there to promote with, awards, book reviewers, and book bloggers. But targeting to specific reviewers and awards that except Indie and self published books has really helped set myself apart. Plus, just getting to know how I can help sell myself as an author has made all the difference.

I’m still working on getting books out for review, but now I have editors I know from review sites already. I’m targeting my review copies to them. Plus, getting ideas from my writing boards, such as kboards.com, always is a way to get new ideas. I might have to add “To Be Continued” for this part of the story. Round 3 will continue.

**This post is part of the monthly
“Indie Life” posts linked on the Indelibles Blog.

The Lost Secret of Dragonfire is available at Amazon and Barnes & Noble.

***Tiffany Turner has just released her third book, The Lost Secret of Dragonfire, in her Crystal Keeper series. She continues to teach fourth graders in California while writing fantasy adventure middle grade novels. She actively plays the Gaelic Harp at Renaissance festivals throughout Northern California.

The Lost Secret of Dragonfire Wins Honorable Mention In The San Francisco Book Festival

The Lost Secret of Dragonfire is available at Amazon and Barnes & Noble.

I am happy to announce that The Lost Secret of Dragonfire has won honorable mention in The San Francisco Book Festival on May 18. I was privileged to go to the awards ceremony and accept the award. It was my first walk up to a podium. After over 7 years of trying, I’ve finally gotten recognized for creating a great work of fiction. There can only be more.

I enjoyed meeting everyone at the book festival during the day. I met Patti Ptak Kogutek, the author of “A Change of Habit”. She has an outgoing personality, and I wanted to find out the story of her journey from Sister Mary Kateri to Sister Mary Vodka. So, I bought and enjoyed reading her book.

Accepting the Honorable Mention Award for Children’s Books at the San Francisco Book Festival 2013

I also enjoyed listening to the informative panels of authors through out the day. There was a panel on marketing and promotions, children’s authors, and ebooks. I even met up with an author, Lloyd Lofthouse, that is on one of my yahoo writing groups. It was awesome to finally meet one of the people I’ve talked to through the internet for so long.

Plus, I learned that having some way for you to get noticed helps to break free from the crowd. I finally got to meet Bruce Haring, managing director of the SF Book Festival. One of the first things he mentioned was, “Hey, you’re the author that plays the harp.” For some reason, I’m guessing not many authors may pluck and write in their spare time as I do. So, pretty much, I’ve discovered a marketing break through. My harp playing as a hook. Really, so many legends connect harps and fairies. Harps are supposedly the way to call fairies to you. Combined with my new award win and harp playing, I feel the carving of a niche in the Indie book world.

Overall, it was a great experience for any writer. I accepted an award, met and exchanged information from others in publishing, and had a great time. Truly, there is something to be said about entering as many awards as possible. You might win one of them. So, keep trying, keep writing.

The Lost Secret of Dragonfire Has Been Released

The Lost Secret of Dragonfire is available at Amazon and Barnes & Noble.

Hear ye, hear ye! I am proud to announce the release of the third book in the Crystal Keeper Chronicles, The Lost Secret of Dragonfire. It has been a long time in making. After three long years of work, I’d like to thank my editor, Shelley Holloway. She helped me navigate the twisty paths of narrative verb agreement. Plus, a big thank you to Rich Wallace, the talented artist that does my cover and interior illustrations.

To celebrate, I will be doing a book signing at Booksmart in Morgan Hill on June 1 from 3pm to 5pm. Come hear me play the Gaelic harp, read an excerpt of the book, and chat with me about the series. I’ll be happy to sign any other books in the series as well. Booksmart is located at 80 East 2nd St. in Morgan Hill, CA. It is near the corner of 2nd St. and Depot St. Their phone number is: 408-778-6467.

Here is a little about the new book:
Fairies are still real. Don’t have doubts. Their world can be dangerous as well. Wanda is too familiar with this. As a Crystal Keeper, she helps the fairies of her realm. But the evil sorcerer Balkazaar has other plans. He’s kidnapped her friend and fellow Crystal Keeper Edina. Wanda is faced with the mystery of her disappearance while trying to figure out Balkazaar’s next move. Haunted by dreams of dragons, Wanda must find a way to save her friend. But problems don’t end with just one path. Will she find the right one to save the Fairy World? Or will Balkazaar have other plans? Join her in the third book of the Crystal Keeper Chronicles.

An excerpt as Wanda faces Balkazaar again:
“‘You always have great timing, Balkazaar.’ Really. I was mad. I didn’t even think to be scared. I was sick of this guy ruining my day, my life, and for taking my friend. ‘So, what have you been up to? Sick of Eddie yet? Can you bring her back like a good villain, or do I have to get rough?’

He gave a chuckle at that. ‘Really, Wanda. Of all the Keepers, I seem to like you best. I think it’s because you seem to watch so much of that contraption in your world. What is it called, a television? I think it gives you too many ideas. Really, you should study more of the books Castrotomas and Brewford give you.’ He twists his mustache. ‘I’m not your average villain, you see. I have plans for you.’”

***The Lost Secret of Dragonfire can be purchased at Amazon.com and Barnes and Noble.com. It is available for the Nook and for the Kobo Ereader.

Standing At The Finish Line

Runners at a Sydney Marathon at the finish line.

Sydney, July 2012. I’m standing in one of my favorite places as a tourist. My husband and I are visiting for our second trip, and we are lucky enough to come across a local marathon with the finish line in The Rocks, an area of Sydney, Australia. Looking around, I take a picture of the runners transfixed by their moment of triumph. I almost can’t pull away. I’m sucked into the moment.

But I’m not a runner. If anything, I’d have to walk a marathon. But I have the fullest respect for these people that take on a challenge such as this. Plus, I have friends back home that would appreciate seeing a marathon in Sydney. It’s for these friends, mostly work colleagues back in the United States, that I post pictures on Facebook of the event. I know they would enjoy watching these runners cross the finish line.

The Finish Line of the race spotted in the Rocks, Sydney.

Today, April 15, 2013, in Boston. Two bombs are set off near the finish line of the Boston Marathon. I’m at a loss for words. I think of the people harmlessly watching the event, cheering on the runners that are still finishing after over 4 hours. I don’t think I can possibly imagine the rest. It’s too horrific.

But I know more has happened then this tragic event. Every time something like this happens, something is lost. The freedom to stand near the finish line of a race, or a sports event, at a concert, could this fear be passed on? Should fear take the place of the pure joy of experiencing? No. I will not be terrorized from the inside.

Security may change at events. Airports have proven this worldwide. But I do not feel that, even though my heart aches for the people in Boston, this harmful event will stop the freedom of people enjoying the simple act of experiencing the triumph of others. I will continue to sightsee, stand in a crowd, and cheer the winning or losing team. There is one person that said something that keeps repeating in my mind today. It was said by Anne Frank.

“In spite of everything, I still believe that people are really good at heart.” -Anne Frank

Why is Self-Publishing Working?

There is a revolution going on in publishing right now. Self-publishing is taking off in different directions. At the forefront of this revolution are the innovative authors that share their ideas, articles, and experiences at a certain writing board that is popular for the Bohemians of this revolution. The writing board, KBoards.com, known before as Kindleboards.com, is a gathering place for a lot of the cutting edge Indie authors with ebooks listed on Amazon.com. Many problems are solved, innovations discussed, and ideas abound in a modern day Bohemian life search for getting ones book out and noticed. Four years ago, another self published author directed me to this board to get advice. And it has been a blessing in disguise. I am grateful for this writing board’s help and attention, and I’d like to share some of the advice I’ve found there, and how I’ve made self-publishing work for me.

As usual, there are voices always out there trying to share experiences of self-publishing. One such voice has been humbly sharing all of his processes including his recent signing with Simon & Schuster. His name is Hugh Howey. His book, Wool, is currently on the new release table at Barnes and Noble. His book, Wool(Omnibus edition) was voted runner up in the 2012 Goodreads Book of the Year for the Best Sci-Fiction category. Basically, he started with a good book and self-published. In the end, he’s kept his digital rights pioneering a new frontier for all authors. But then I digress. This is what happened this last week.

Hugh, being tired of seeing such negative comments about self-published authors, presented an article to Salon.com using the Kboard.com thread to research his article, Self Publishing is the Future-And Great for Writers. Basically, he wanted to point out that there are people out there making a living at self-publishing, mostly what would be considered mid-list authors. His basic point was that there are people making a living, or paying the basics such as rent, bills, and other critical things that help you launch as a writer.

There were the normal, negative comments. But there was a surprising amount of support from other self-published authors. Really, it proved to me that there is an underground community, a sense of realness and artist survival shared by many. There were many other stories shared, or even just income per month, on the success of being an Indie Author. It made me think; you just can’t sit around and wait at the drugstore counter to be discovered like everyone else. You have to go out and make self-publishing work for you.

Why is it working for many of us? It has to do with the royalty percentage. Ebooks are still relatively new. Most royalty percentage for self-published companies are 50-60%. My current publisher, Trafford Publishing, gives 50% of the ebook net sales. I have no agent to share this percentage. My average sales is about 10 ebooks a month. Now, this is not terribly impressive compared to some of the other numbers I’ve seen. I also know that children’s ebooks sales are slowly growing. Plus, I am selling books. This is better than collecting dust on a shelf. Most of the 5-6 figures of income of self-publishing authors are Romance and Mystery. Throw in sometimes Sci-Fi, and it is working for many people. It is working better than some people can imagine.

There are some advantages to self-publishing my book. In 2007, I published my first book, The Lost Secret of Fairies. In 2009, I published the second book in the series, The Lost Secret of the Green Man. As the third book, The Lost Secret of Dragonfire, releases this spring, all my previous books are available on the virtual shelf. Readers can go back and buy the earlier books at a listing price of $1.99 or $2.99. But that leads to the next point.

Being successful also depends on your selling price of the book. I saw indie author experiments with pricing influence the price of books. I tried my own with my Amazon Price Matching Experiment last year, and posted on my blog about it. In October 2012, Amazon had a settlement with the US State Attorney to reimburse customers for price fixing with three different publishers. Prices were no longer fixed at $9.99 for ebooks.

In fact, the price points started to drop, you guessed it, to $0.99 to $3.99. In April 2012, Mike Coker did a post on his blog showing what price points worked on his website, Smashwords.com, $0.99 and $3.99. He had all the Indie Author data of experimentation to back him up. That’s when others started to listen. Data is starting to show self-publishing can work. It’s not hard to connect the dots that self-publishing is not only working, but having it’s data and experiences used by other publishers.

Being tuned into all of this uprising is like a front row seat to some of the biggest change happening in publishing. Those of us who have nothing to loose, no overhead, and no corporate structure to answer to can try new things on a whim. I tried the Amazon price matching idea and watched my first book, The Lost Secret of Fairies, be downloaded for free over 9,000 times to build a whole new reader base. Three months later, Amazon switched to two separate buying lists so free downloads wouldn’t top their best seller lists. But it worked for me, because I was an indie author that had control of my pricing and distribution. This is a whole new concept for authors, and exciting to be at the forefront.

To add to this, I know where my ebooks have sold. I can log on and see how many sales I’ve had in the US, UK, and Canada. I’ve even had a few books sell in Japan. This is using listings for Kindle Direct Publishing and Smashwords.com. Smashwords distributes to Barnes and Noble, Kobo, Apple, and several other ebook retailers. These are just the ones that I use. Other avenues are available too.

In a way, I’ve been trying to make self-publishing work for me. My new book, The Lost Secret of Dragonfire, took three years to write. I spent the last year editing with a fabulous freelance editor named Shelley Holloway. I’ve hired an artist, Rich Wallace, to do the cover and inside illustrations for the last three books. In the end, I learned it really doesn’t matter to your reader how your book gets to them, but that it does. Whether your book is self published or traditionally published, a reader will want your book if they like it. So, the most important thing is to write a good book. That is what any successful author does. Write a good book that people will want. If your book is good and available, people will want it, no matter how it is published.

**This post is part of the monthly
“Indie Life” posts linked on the Indelibles Blog.

Tiffany Turner is a self-published author the children’s fantasy adventure series called The Crystal Keeper Chronicles. Her current release, The Lost Secret of Dragonfire, is the third book in the series. She has been an elementary teacher in California for 16 years.

Read an Ebook Week March 3-9 on Smashwords

Available at Smashwords for 50% off this week in celebration of “Read an Ebook Week”.

It’s that time of year again. No, not for wearing green, but to head over to Smashwords and pick up those free and hugely discounted ebooks. This is probably the biggest promo that Smashwords does all year round, and it is a great tradition to be a part of. If you are a children’s author and have your books distributed on Smashwords, please leave a comment of where your book can be found. If you’re a fan of ebooks, or just want to see what they are all about, check out the many deals going on this week.

Smashwords has several formats that you can download for an ebook. If you want to pick up some bargains in children’s ebooks, Smashwords is the place to shop this week.

Plus, I’ve just received an official release date for my third book. The Lost Secret of Dragonfire is due for release in May this year. So, both books in the Crystal Keeper Chronicles are 50% in support of Ebook Week. Pick up the first two books in the series at an extra discount, and you’ll be ready for the third book in May.

Happy “Read an Ebook Week”. It’s a great way to celebrate literature in the digital age.

*The Lost Secret of Fairies and The Lost Secret of the Green Man are available this week only at Smashwords for 50% off.

A Special Way to Say “I Love You”

I Love You! by Calee M. Lee

When searching for the perfect Valentine’s Gift for your child, try sharing your love over and over again through a unique picture book. I Love You! by Calee M. Lee is a wonderful way to tell your youngster those special words for Valentine’s Day. The book is unique in that it repeats all the different ways love can be expressed. From a secret pillow fort to a birthday crown, the pages flow through kid friendly events to share over and over.

I really loved the illustrations and layout for this book. The text looks as if it is written on mini-notebook paper, and the pictures are adorable.The illustrator, Tricia Tharp, captures the whimsical charm of every kid event with cartoon style images. You’ll want to read this book over and over. It’s a great way to tuck your little one into bed this week. It’s a great Valentine’s Day gift that can be enjoyed all year long.

***** 5 Stars
Available as a paperback and ebook at Amazon.com Also available at Barnes and Noble as a paperback edition.

To Hobbiton and Back: My Visit to the Set of Hobbiton for the movie, The Hobbit

View of The Hobbiton Set as you walk onto the grounds, July 3, 2011.

New Zealand is considered “The Middle Earth”. At least, that’s how I viewed the countryside as I traveled around in a camper van in July 2011. I had come half way across the world. My husband and I were visiting relatives and seeing the beautiful countryside of New Zealand. And I had convinced him to stop at the famous sheep ranch that was used as the set of Hobbiton.

I had read the Lord of the Rings Series at age 13. The Fellowship of the Ring is still my favorite book of the three. But I didn’t know that filming had started for the next two films of The Hobbit. They were filming the prequel in two parts, but all at the same time. I was in for one of the biggest surprises of my life.

Hobbiton: Movie Set and Farm Tours is near Matamata, New Zealand. It is the Alexander Family Farm that was used as the Hobbiton Set for The Lord of the Rings movies. After the original three films were made, the facings for a lot of the hobbit holes were taken down. When my husband Keith and I arrived, the set had been reconstructed again for The Hobbit. We had to sign waiver forms to not post or share pictures of our visit until Dec. 14, 2012, the release date of the movie, The Hobbit.

So, I’ve been waiting about a year and a half to share this story. It has been worth the wait. I’m happy to bring photos of my visit to celebrate the opening of the movie today.

On the day we visited, it was winter in New Zealand. The set had been closed for shooting until spring and better weather for outside shots. The farm was allowed to bring in visitors, if they signed a waiver. It was overcast most of the day, but luckily it didn’t rain. The hobbit holes had green plastic fencing around them to keep the sheep out. Plus, many holes were covered with plastic sheets to protect them from the elements. My pictures of Bag End show the plastic sheets draped over large parts of the outside.

This is the Party Tree. The swing is at the far bottom for scale.

My first picture above is when you enter the tour. This is the area where Gandalf enters the shire at the beginning of Fellowship of the Ring. The current set for The Hobbit recreated the shire so it would look as it did when Bilbo was younger. Everything has been recreated for The Hobbit. But I believe, with less hobbit holes. To the right is the Party Tree.

Myself standing in front of Sam’s House.

This is Sam’s house below. All the set is build for people 5′ 2″ and shorter. That was the height limit for being a hobbit. I’m 5’4″. I miss the mark for the hobbit casting, but the set effect still works for me. I look hobbit size in the picture.

Inside of a Hobbit Hole set

To the right is one of the Hobbit Holes that was open for us to see inside during the tour. You can see how when the door opens, the actor steps inside with just enough space to walk a step or two. The hillside is dug out enough to allow them to step as if entering the home, closing the door if needed. Then, they would wait until the shot is done. Sorry, all the inside shots of the hobbit holes, including Bag End, is a set on a sound stage. But I thought it was very cool to see how it was all done.

The outside of Bag End

This is Bag End. You can most recognize it by the door to the Hobbit Hole. Here is probably where the most plastic sheets were used to cover the set. Of course, I needed my picture next to this famous Hobbit Hole.

View of the Shire from near Bag End, top of the hill.

Here is the view while standing on the path directly in front of Bag End. You can see the lake, the Party Tree, Samwise’s hobbit hole, the mill, bridge, and “The Green Dragon” pub. At this point, I felt I was in Hobbiton. You cannot see anything that reminds you of modern life. With this view, you can tell why they picked the Alexander farm to be the shire.

The Shire as a backdrop.

Here I am at the end of the row of Bag End. It’s at the top of the hill and path. It’s amazing how the feeling of a small village is captured. The paths feel cozy.

As you come down the hill, you can get a sense of how much detail is worked into everything. The paths, the fencing, and landscaping all gives you the feel it’s being lived in. The plants are mostly real. There was some disguising of trees and reworking of some greenery. But a lot of the plants and gardens are the real thing. Jasmine grows hanging down by the door at Bag End. Even though it was winter, some of the plants have flowers on them. It was great to see it all up close.

Keith Turner standing by a Hobbit Hole on the Hobbiton Set.

Here is my husband, Keith, next to another one of the amazing hobbit holes. I love the attention to detail in the fencing, the roses in front of the door, and the home like effect. It is to note, he is 6’4″. He really ducked down to fit this picture.

To the right, is a Hobbit Hole that demonstrates the attention to detail on the set. I love this hobbit hole. It looks so warm and friendly. I want to move in, and sit by the fire. I love the footpath leading up.

This is the garden that the hobbits are seen working in during Fellowship of the Ring. The “Green Dragon” Pub is directly at the top of the picture in the background. I believe there are sheep or cows in the background. During a day of shooting, all the farm animals would be moved. On the day I visited, the animals were out in pasture. So, some can be seen in the previous pictures as well.

I hope you enjoyed my pictures of visiting Hobbiton. I can’t wait to see the movie, The Hobbit. Since I have visited, I’ve waited a year and a half to share these with you. Plus, there was more shooting to be done after my visit. I’m excited to see what and how everything was used in the upcoming film. Here’s to the release of the Hobbit Part 1. It’s time for a celebration under the Party Tree.

Resources:

The Lord of the Rings Location Guidebook (Extended Edition) by Ian Brodie
Harper Collins Publishers, Auckland, New Zealand 2004.

Hobbiton Movie Set and Farm Tours
Matamata, New Zealand
http://www.hobbitontours.com

A Gift of Old School Adventure

The Treasure of Devil’s Hole by Jody M. Mabry

What do caves, boys on adventure, and gold all have in common? They are combined into a wildly good historical adventure that is hard to put down. The Treasure at Devil’s Hole by Jody M. Mabry is a combination of a Hardy Boy’s adventure and home cooked apple pie. It’s an old school recipe for some good reading. I ate it right up.

A young boy growing up in 1945 goes on an adventure looking for treasure with his two younger brothers. There is a legend told about bandits that hid their treasure in the nearby cavern of Devil’s Hole. One afternoon, they all decide to find out if it’s true. They get more than they bargain for. A mysterious old man tries to nab them as they escape the dangers of the cave.

Bug, also known as Francis, is convinced it must be there. But having been whooped and grounded for trying to find the treasure in the first place, he must find an excuse to outwit his mother to lead another trip down into the cave. With his best friend Billy, Bug runs into more of a mystery than planned. Trapped into a conflict with the local bully, Bug must solve the riddle of the treasure as well as save the local miner that faces the ultimate punishment.

This is a great mystery adventure to get lost in for the coming Holiday break. It’s got a fast pace, keeping you gripped in the story. I couldn’t put it down. It takes place in a small town in Possum Flats, Arkansas. Mabry sprinkles real stories from his grandmother raising her rowdy boys with a mix of traditional mystery storytelling. He was inspired by stories of the “Old Dutchman Mine” as a kid, and uses the classic lost treasure plot with a lot of fun, new twists. There is a nice set up for a sequel in the ending. I am hoping for Bugs to have further adventures with his brothers. Hopefully, Mr. Mabry’s grandmother told enough tales to fill more books. I’m looking forward to them.

***** 5 Stars
The Treasure of Devil’s Hole is available in paperback and ebook at Amazon.com and Barnes and Nobles.com. Plus, it is also available as an ebook at Ibooks.com, the Apple Store, and Lulu.com.

Charming Picture Book For Trick-o-Treaters

A Ghost Went Trick or Treating by A. J. Cosmo

There is nothing better than a good story to set the mood for Halloween. A picture ebook called “A Ghost Went Trick or Treating” is a charming story about the lessons learned on Halloween Night. If you are looking for a nonviolent, friendly and safe story for Halloween, this is a great book for your little Trick or Treater.

A mysterious ghost Trick or Treater is adopted into a group of children. Figuring he needs some help, they take him around with them. But when one of them gets into trouble, bullied by the local teens, the ghost comes to the rescue. Plus, there is a surprise twist to the plot. I’m not including spoilers. But if your child likes cute monsters, they will enjoy the surprise.

This is a great story to begin Halloween week. It can be read again and again as a lead up to the big event on the 31st. I highly recommend this for younger Trick or Treaters, but for older siblings as well. The author, A.J. Cosmo, teaches compassion in situations where sometimes, just a nice gesture can be returned in kind.

***** 5 Star Rating
Available on the Kindle only.
This is a Kindle Select book and only available on Amazon.
For your copy of “A Ghost Went Trick Or Treating” click here.