Interview with Brianna Reshae

BriAnna Reshae is the author of “Beautiful Black Butterfly“.

Welcome to a New Year and decade on the Indie Children’s Authors Connection. I’ve been running this blog since I started self-publishing children’s books way back around 2008. So, I’m proud to say I’ve been running this meeting place for authors and readers for over 10 years now. I’m proud to continue this tradition of introducing you to fabulous Indie authors and their books with my first interview of 2020.

BriAnna Reshae is an author that has been following her passion for writing since she was a child and has written a book called Beautiful Black Butterfly. Her books deal with obstacles children face and how they can learn to face and over come them. I had a chance to talk to Brianna about her childhood reading memories, favorite authors, what influences her, and what writing means to her.

• What is your favorite memory from reading as a child?

BriAnna Reshae: Being inspired to use my imagination and dream big is my favorite memory as a child.

• Who was your favorite author and how did they influence you?

BriAnna Reshae: My favorite author was Barbara Park who wrote Junie B. Jones, she influences me by being able to connect to children and still be able to entertain middle grade students as well.

• Do you have a writing routine? Share what works for you.

BriAnna Reshae: I don’t have a particular writing routine, I just write mostly when I’m inspired to do it.

• What subjects would you like to write about in future projects?

BriAnna Reshae: I write children’s books aimed towards obstacles that children face but I would like to write stories about obstacles that teenagers and young adults face as well.

• What is writing to you in one sentence?

BriAnna Reshae: Creativity.

 Beautiful Black Butterfly is a book about overcoming bullies and excepting who you are. Jai’Da encounters kids that make fun of her. The bullies target her because of the dark color of her skin. But then a black butterfly comes into her life that inspires her to express her natural beauty within and overcome the hatred directed at her. This is a wonderful book to help children understand that differences are actually what make us unique and beautiful, and we can look towards these differences for our own self-confidence and inner beauty.

Beautiful Black Butterfly is available at Amazon.com.

For more information on BriAnna Reshae, visit her social media links here:

Instagram: booksbybree
Facebook: BriAnna Reshae Woodard (booksbybree)
Twitter: books_by_bree

 

 

Interview with Charity S. Nyirenda

With Christmas just a few weeks away, I’ve been looking high and low for fabulous Christmas books for kids. This is a great time to get read alouds for your home library or for your classroom. I’ve found the perfect gift for this time of year, and had the chance to interview the author. Charity S. Nyirenda writes spiritual books to help motivate and empower through nature. She has written the book, A Dose of Kindness, as part of the “Adventures of Zaan” series. It focuses on this time of year being a giving and caring season. Charity I had the chance to ask Charity about childhood reading memories, the writing process, and what other projects she has in mind.

• What is your favorite memory from reading as a child?

Charity S. Nyirenda: I always loved it when my grandmother read to my siblings and I. I always looked forward to “story time” as she called it.

• Who was your favorite author and how did they influence you?

Charity S. Nyirenda: Luvvie Ajayi is my favorite author at the moment. She has influenced me greatly because of how authentic she is and how she always encourages a writer to WRITE.

• Do you have a writing routine? Share what works for you.

Charity S. Nyirenda: I usually write bits and pieces throughout the day whenever I get inspired or have some random thought. I put them all together and voila! A chapter is made.

• What subjects would you like to write about in future projects?

Charity S. Nyirenda: Empowerment, inspiration, positivity, motivation. Anything in those lines.

• What is writing to you in one sentence?

Charity S. Nyirenda: Freedom!

A Dose of Kindness is a Christmas story that focuses on helping you find the meaning of Christmas. For Zaan, it is more than receiving gifts, it’s celebrating Jesus’s birthday. This beautiful story follows Zaan’s journey to find something kind and caring to help celebrate Jesus’s birthday.

A Dose of Kindness is available at Amazon.com.

This is a Kindle Unlimited title.

 

 

 

 

Book Review: Siarra Jones Skating Into Trouble (Middle Grade Novel)

Paul Breau is the author of the new middle grade book, Siarra Jones Skating Into Trouble.

The Holiday Season is kicking off right now, and you may be in search for a reading present for the child in your life. So, I’ll be highlighting some awesome books and authors that I find over the next few weeks. The first I’d like to tell you about is a great new series from a Canadian author, Paul Breau. He has put together a great middle grade novel as the first in his Step By Step series. The book is called Siarra Jones Skating Into Trouble.

Siarra is so excited about her new skating class. She’s starting the highest level class, and just needs it to be complete all that is needed to go to skating camp. But on her first day, a bully starts to get in her way. Every new session of class, she runs into problems with the bully. One thing after another happens. She suddenly sees bullies everywhere, especially at school. A run in with the class bully and watching someone else be a hero gives her the strength to stand up to her bully. Will she be able to face him in the final test of the class? Will she find out what makes him so mean?

I really enjoyed Siarra as a character. It was good to see a strong girl, excited and having a good relationship with her parents. The bully incidents are realistic, and she learns more about being bullied first hand. It gives her empathy for others around her she notices are bullied. She goes through a beautiful change to start standing up for others, and uses this knowledge to stand up to her bully. But I was really hoping that the bully character himself would have some insight and we’d see more of his change. There is a little bit at the end of the book, but I wish there were more background revealed for the bully himself.

Overall, I really enjoyed this book and hope it will make it into classrooms and libraries. It would make a great read aloud for a class to have discussions about bullying and what to do in different situations presented in the story. Plus, for any child that is being bullied, it will be an empowering read.

Siarra Jones Skating Into Trouble is available at Amazon.com. This is a Kindle Unlimited title.

For more information on the author Paul Breau, please visit his website at: PaulBreau.com.

Interview with L.M. Dunn

With all the hoopla of Halloween over, you might be looking for a sweet book to read to your little one at night. I’ve found a nice, cuddly dog picture book for you called George Loves A Stick. I had a chance to interview the author L.M. Dunn about her childhood memories, writing process, and what she has in story for us.

• What is your favorite memory from reading as a child?

L.M. Dunn: How To Eat Fried Worms was my favorite book as a kid.

• Do you have a writing routine? Share what works for you.

L.M. Dunn: I write by hand on paper, then type the first draft on the computer, print and edit by hand. Then do it again until it’s right.

• What subjects would you like to write about in future projects?

L.M. Dunn: I’ll be writing more children’s books as well as adult sci fi, thriller, spiritual, et al. Writing is my passion.

George Loves A Stick is a darling picture book involving a dog and his stick. It takes you on an adventure of what a dog will experience in a day as he roams around, plays with other dogs, explores, and makes friend with his favorite stick. But when he gets in a tug of war with his brother over the stick, which will win?

This delightful picture book will make a great addition to any child’s library that loves dogs.

George Loves A Stick is available at Amazon.com and Amazon.com.br.

Back In The Day, Mrs. Turner Was A DJ In College…in the 80s.

So, many years ago in another century, I worked at the college radio where I got my degree. And it happened to be the 1980s. I played a lot of the alternative music at the time, and I even ended up working at a dance club for a few years. Good times.

Later, a little website called Live365 came along, making it possible for people to program internet radio stations. So, I did an 80s music themed radio station for awhile, until around 2015, when I got sick, all sorts of things about licensing, and how internet radio was going to go went to congress, and the whole website got taken down for awhile. All the music I’d uploaded, cute little playlists for Halloween and Christmas New Wave music went down with the ship.

Until tonight. Live 365 rose from the ashes, and now is fee based with some ads, but it allows it to function again because it licenses it’s users now which is paid in the fee. I’d been toying around the idea of trying to get the 80s music internet radio station back up, but it was hard being sick and money was tight.

But finally, it all clicked tonight. They have an ads based option which will lower the cost if I run ads on the station, and I can use my already fabulous cloud music. My, times change. But I still love the 80s music I grew up with and played in college. And since I finished a story that takes place in the 80s, I thought I’d share my love for that decade with you.

It’s called the 80s Music Connection. Yes, similar to the name of this site. Just for 80s Music as opposed to Indie Authors. 😉 But it’s fabulous feeling back in my element again. The station is still in its infant stages. So, give it time. It will grow. I’ve got a basic playlist in rotation right now. Maybe it will bring back memories, or if you weren’t there for the 80s (Believe me, I know. The 50s music was big back then, because all the adults were reliving their youth. SO, I’ve seen this on the kid’s side of things already.)

Anyway, here you go. Click the link below, and a player through the website will pop up. I hope you enjoy it. Please let me know in the comments.

-Mrs. Turner (Former awesome college DJ)

http://player.live365.com/a22448

 

Interview with Tom Murdoch

Before all the scary, spooky stories start to take over your child’s brain, I’d like to introduce you to Tom Murdoch. He’s a fun, adventurous author that writes soothing bedtime stories. He has written “Where will you go, Ricky Jo?”, a sweet, adventure story about an outgoing Chihuahua that loves to explore. I got a chance to ask author Tom Murdoch about his childhood reading memories, writing and what he is thinking of accomplishing next.

• What is your favorite memory from reading as a child?

Tom Murdoch: My dad read to me, sometimes scary stories! As a child, I read all the Hardy Boy books.

• Do you have a writing routine? Share what works for you.

Tom Murdoch: I write all day as a copywriter, so for my book projects I try to squeeze it in as I can.

• What subjects would you like to write about in future projects?

Tom Murdoch: I hope to continue a series about puppies.

“Where Will You Go, Ricky Jo?” is a classic bedtime story certain to inspire imagination as well as sleepy time adventures. Featuring vibrant illustrations, journey with Ricky Jo, a loveable Chihuahua, chasing after fire engines, soaring high on airplanes, riding on horses and visiting a farm. His journey ends with bedtime where he starts his dream adventures. This charming picture book will make a great addition to any family’s home library.

 

“Where will you go, Ricky Jo?” is available at Amazon.com.

This is a Kindle Unlimited title.

 

 

 

 

Interview with Carey Azzara

Carey Azzara is the author of the children’s book, The Sick Puppy. 

I have an extra treat for you. A new book from the author, Carey Azzara is coming out in this week. Carey is one of those authors that just have to write and get his message out to the world. His upcoming book, The Sick Puppy, is due out for release on [release date inserted]. I had a chance to talk to Carey about his influences as an author, his writing routine, and what he would like to write about in the future.

Who was your favorite author and how did they influence you?
Carey Azzara: I’m a fan of Mark Twain (who isn’t right?). His stories flow with ease and they all make sense. He teaches as well as entertains (something I aspire to). We learn something of true value from his writing, like the concept of a good lie in the book Huck Finn.

Do you have a writing routine? Share what works for you.
Carey Azzara: I am not overly disciplined in my routine. I typically do my best work in the morning and late in the evening. However, when an idea strikes, I try hard to get it down on paper no matter when the muse is being helpful.

What subjects would you like to write about in future projects?
Carey Azzara: My next project is a series of books written for the YA audience. It features a fifteen-year-old girl living in New Mexico who is part Apache. Along with her Apache mentor, an elder in the local Native American community, she discovers she has extraordinary powers. The working title is Gila Wilderness Warrior.

The Sick Puppy is the story of a seven-year-old girl that has enjoyed living in her home in Cumberland, Maine. But when her Dad receives special news, her life is turned upside down to adjust to a new home. Heidi learns to adjust to her new town by a friend that puts the meaning into rescue. A sweet, little puppy.

The Sick Puppy is available on Amazon.com in ebook edition or paperback. It is also available at the publisher’s website at Glass Spider Publishing.

For more information on Carey Azzara, please visit his website at:

https://careyazzara.com/.

 

 

 

 

Interview with Cody L Clark

Fall is a beautiful time of year to read a book with your young one, or enjoy some quality time at bedtime. Here is a newly discovered children’s author I’d like to introduce you to for these longer night reads. Cody L Clark grew up in a small North Carolina town. His imagination was active as a child, and it just never stopped. It helped him create a story about his two dogs that were adopted from the Atlanta Humane Society.

Lucky Dogs Shake Paws is based on the meeting of two dogs from different backgrounds. Cody L Clark tells a story of two dogs learning to get along in a new home. I had a chance to talk to him about his writing, inspirations, and what he has in store for us.

1) Why do you enjoy writing?
Cody L Clark: Writing allows me to create my own adventure by using my imagination. Writing also allows me to share the adventure with others. To sum it up, I enjoy writing because it gives me the freedom to create a story with my imagination and share it with people.

2) What inspiration sparked the story Lucky Dogs: Shake Paws?
Cody L Clark: My two dogs are the inspiration behind the story; Ruby and Juliet. When the dogs first moved in together, uncertainty was clear, but over time they have become best friends.

3) What is the moral of the story?
Cody L Clark: Acceptance. The story is about accepting others and their differences.

4) Why did you choose to name the town Dogwood?
Cody L Clark: Being from North Carolina, I decided Dogwood was fitting since that is the state tree.

5) Will Lucky Dogs be a standalone book or do you see this become a series?
Cody L Clark: I plan to make it a series. The characters are a lot of fun.

Mayor Ruby has a problem in Dogwood. It’s the quietest and most peaceful place on Earth. But when a new dog arrives into town, the new hound, Wiley, creates uproar. Will Mayor Ruby find a way to keep the peace in Dogwood without upsetting the new resident?

Lucky Dogs Shake Paws is available at Amazon.com and Barnes and Nobles.com.

 

 

Interview with Nasser Abuhamda

Nasser Abuhamda is the author of the book Backyard Adventures. 

I’ve got a wonderful author to introduce you to in time for all of your fall reading. Nasser Abuhamda grew up in Michigan having kid adventures that have inspired his stories. He currently has many books that can appeal to the wild child at heart. I had a chance to talk to Nasser about his memories of reading, authors that have inspired him, and what he plans to write about in the future.

1) What is your favorite memory from reading as a child?

Nasser Abuhamda: As a child I liked reading about dinosaurs in the backyard laying on the grass on a sunny day. My mother would always come to read with me and explain the book I was reading. Reading certain stories would inspire me to write the stories I have today.

2) Who was your favorite author and how did they influence you?

Nasser Abuhamda: Steven King inspired me from reading his books. I’ve watched his movies. He inspired me to use my imagination to write my own books and stories.

3) What subjects would you like to write about in future projects?
Nasser Abuhamda: I would like to write about fictional subjects as well as science fiction.

Backyard Adventures is Nasser Abuhamda’s most recent book. It is a book about a young boy that likes to delve into his imagination in his backyard. One day, he’s a cowboy. The next day, he’s a pirate. But then one day, his adventures turn into a situation where he has to make a decision like the real heroes in his backyard adventures. This delightful book is a fun bedtime story to help kids engage their imagination. It will make a wonderful addition to any child’s home library.

For more information on Nasser Abuhamda and his books, visit his author page.

Interview with Kevin Hindriks

As the weather starts to turn, it’s a great time to start looking for books to read for your little ones. More time indoors means more time to read books. I found a wonderful author that creates charming stories with a little girl, dapper cat, and quests of adventure. Meet Kevin Hindriks. He is the author of the picture book Tasha & Pierre. Kevin is a self-published author living in the Philippines. When not writing children’s books, he is working in film as a director for documentaries and music videos. I had the chance to talk to Kevin Hindriks about his childhood reading memories, writing routine, and future projects.

1) What is your favorite memory from reading as a child?

Kevin Hindriks: My favorite memory from reading as a child was reading “The Cat in the Hat” by Dr. Seuss. I must have read that book hundreds of times – in those days we only had a few books in the house. Those illustrations will always be etched in my mind, and the moral value at the end will always stay with me.

2) Do you have a writing routine? Share what works for you.

Kevin Hindriks: My writing routine is basically just trying to put in a few hours everyday. I have a full time job as a filmmaker, so I can only dedicate a couple of hours a day. I don’t force myself to the point of frustration. I feel that it’s better to be relaxed and take things as they come. When it comes to illustration, I sketch everything myself then pass it to my illustrator, who then makes nice versions of my sketches.

3) What subjects would you like to write about in future projects?

Kevin Hindriks: In the future I would like to make more children’s book related to parenting. I am a new parent, and so it would be enjoyable for me to share some of my experiences. I also love Brazilian jiu jitsu, and I’d love to make a baby book about that, targeted to jiu jitsu parents.

Tasha & Pierre is a delightful picture book that tells the story of a charming girl and her dapper cat as they go on a journey to discover the world. Beautiful illustrations their page-turning adventures creating valuable together time for toddlers and their parents.

 

Tasha & Pierre is available at Amazon.com.