WAHOO Archives

Big WAHOO to talented Fiona Bayrock for getting a contract for her non/fiction "Bubble Homes & Fish Farts" - and the book's not even completed! Hey, with a title like that what editor could resist. Her website is pretty cool too! EDITOR NOTE: Seems WAHOO jumped the gun a bit with the contract news. The cat (or in this case, the "farts"), are now out of the bag. Sorry Fiona.

Linda Joy Singleton earns a WAHOO for her latest book, "Strange Encounters, Shamrocked." Read about the others in this series of terrific midgrades on her website. She also has a BLOG, mates. This woman is HOT!

Margot Finke's just heard from publisher, Writers Exchange in Australia, that her next two rhyming e-Books will soon be out. "Don't Eat Platypus Stew" is illustrated by Rebecca Holdsworth. "Humdinger Hummers" is illustrated by Amy Morano. These talented artists captured the spirit and energy of both books.

Bill Kirk earns a WAHOO for his "Crystal Rainbows," a short rhyme in January's Saplings Magazine. Way to go Bill!

Judy Cox wows us this month with multiple good news - what is this woman eating for breakfast that makes her so published? Two new books coming out this spring: First, there's That Crazy Eddie and the Science Project of Doom (a chapter book), and Don't Be Silly, Mrs. Millie! (a picture book).

AND, a publishing company from Thailand is negotiating Thai rights for one of
her books. Ya gotta love this! No details though, until the contract is in Judy's hot little hand. Go to Sleep, Groundhog! (picture book) is available in the Scholastic Book order for January. (This will probably be more thrilling to those of you who are teachers)

Judy also sold a new PB manuscript, tentatively titled, One is a Feast for Mouse. WAHOO indeed!

Sybilla (Billy) Cook First, "Byline" will bring out Billy's essay, "Be Prepared for Book Signings," in its spring issue. (This piece was inspired by a conversation with Judy Cox at a book signing last June--thanks, Judy)
Billy also has a personal essay coming out for Horizon Air, on how computers behave like teenagers. Finally; Interchange (the Oregon Ed. Media Association's newsletter) put my book review of Bob Welch's American Nightingale in its current issue. Billy, you are on a roll!

1/17/04 - Janice Levy was thrilled her book, "Finding The Right Spot:When Kids Can't Live With Their Parents," was on "Reading Rainbow" today. On TV no less! You can check their website to see when the show will be repeated in your particular state.

Vijaya Bodach gets a huge WAHOO for winning the ICL YA writig contest. WOW! Titled "Driving Lessons," the word is that Vijaya's voice is authentic - funny, moving and painful, also happy. A chunk of real life WAY TO GO!

Kathryn Lay finally received her contract from Cricket on the short story they accepted months ago, "The Day Grandpa's Teeth Flew" - another "gripping" title, mates! Kathryn was excited to snag a 3rd fiction contract with the Cricket group. This lady is great WAHOO material!

Tia Leschke just got the news that her first children's piece ever will be appearing in Learning Through History Magazine in March 2004. It's called, A New World Garden and Feast. The theme for the issue is European Exploration. Tia is HOT!

Eric Luper was interviewed by his local 24-hour news station regarding his
January 2005 article in Highlight for Children, entitle Turtlecise! They interviewed him at their studio, 1/17/2005, and it aired all day. The segment is posted HERE and Eric is now flying HIGH!

Alison Dellenbaugh's article about the day she won the Oscar Mayer Wienermobile competition appears in the January-February 2005 SCBWI Bulletin! - this is fresh good news in today's mail. The article is called "Oh, I Wished I Were an Oscar Mayer Winner," and you can link to it from my website . . . Hey - 2 x WAHOOs for Alison - one for the article, and one for winning the Weinermobile for herself!!

Barbara Skalak's Wednesday mail brought an advance copy of her book, Waddle, Waddle, Quack, Quack, Quack! - it's delightfully illustrated by Sylvia
Long. This rhyming picture book is about a duckling's adventure finding his family after he becomes lost on a lake in a thunderstorm. After 3 1/2 years with the manuscript at the publisher's, and multiple revisions, Barbara is thrilled to finally see the finished book. If you'd like to see the cover, type the title into Chronicle's website. This is genuine WAHOO material, mates.

Kim Ramsey was excited to learn that her series of two phonics-based readers, and three comprehension worksheet book, are on the Colorado Dept. of Education's Reading First Initiative approved materials list (Kim lives in Maine), and that one University of Maine campus uses them as texts in an education class. Now, when I find opposition against using my books in schools where I work, I can tell them, "But they're approved in Colorado!" Now that is a WAHOO moment!

Debby G's first Internet publication is up. It's called Library Mom. It's not a children's piece, but it does concern a terrifying experience she had when acting as a children's librarian. Debbie is thrilled to have an article on the Web. She says, "Writing a 500 word funny article about my life sure is a lot easier than slaving away at my 50,000 word YA manuscript." This WAHOO article can be read HERE This author of STORKY (Putnam, April 2005) is no slouch!

Dara Lehner earns the WAHOO of the month for sheer guts and survival!! She is overcoming huge physical problems, to shine bright again on the CW list, and in the eyes of certain editors. Read on:
* Today is turning out to be Dara's day. Her mail brought two answers to query letters she sent - both requested to see the magazine pieces she wrote. AND, she returned three calls from potential agents. Her children took messages from them late yesterday afternoon. Two of them requested writing samples. WAHOO! She intends "floating" off to her treadmill rehab today. Yes....persistence is the key. DARA ROCKS! **Dara's latest WAHOO

Tina Musial - Yee ha! Tina gets to write a kids column in 4 regional newspapers in Michigan...and it pays!! The publisher called and said he liked my cover letter - which offered to clean the office and bring the donuts should I need to be onsite. WAHOO! She's off to work!

Coleen Paratore's midgrade book, "The Wedding Planner's Daughter," has just been published by Simon & Schuster. Colleen is a memger of Lois's critique group here in Albany, NY. Her book was well reviewed by Kirkus. WAHOO! The producer who did the movie Tuck Everlasting read the book on a plane on his way to the Sundance Festival. He has already called Coleen's agent about the movie rights. Coleen has 2 picture books that have done well. This is her first middle-grade, something she didn't think she could do. And she did. The sequel is already in the works, since the publisher "knew" this book was going to fly. Lois from Albany.

Julia DeVillers is a jewel. With Roxyann Young's permission, she will sponsor an "entry fee" scholarship raffle. It's a RANDOM drawing, and she will pay the W.I.N. entry fee for two winners (one submission each person). to enter Roxyanne Young's SmartWriters.com 2005 Writing Competition W.I.N.- Just E-Mail Julia your name and e-mail address in the body of a post, between now and Saturday, February 5. - SUBJECT LINE - TWIN WIN Scholarship. All the names will be printed out and go separately into a hat. Julia's eight year old will randomly choose 2 winners from the hat this coming Sunday, Feb 6th.

NOTE:Julia will pay the two winner's fees directly to SmartWriters.com, or if they have already paid and submitted, she will reimburse them. Julia will announce the winners, unless they prefer to be anonymous: and that's OK too.

NOW, here's the scoop behind Julia's generous offer:
Julia writes: As an author who convinced her own twin sister to enter the contest (and she became one of last year's winners)...I feel like I should give a nudge to participants to enter! My sister was thrilled to win, and her manuscript will be a book with Marshall Cavendish next year (with no help from my connections!)

There were a few recent posts that made me think, hmmm... These were the
ones where people were concerned about the entry fee. I know we all have a lot
on our plates. I am fortunate to now be making a living from writing, and I
thought, maybe here's my chance to honor my sister's win last year by helping
out in a small way.

COMMENT FROM MARGOT: A big WAHOO to Julia DeVillers. Writers don't come any more special than this generous lady. And let me add; this is a terrific writing competition from Roxyanne Young, a lady we all admire and respect. Her SmartWriters .com is an icon among websites for children's writers.

WINNER'S NAMES! - as of Feb 5th.

Kelly Milner Hall's terrific book "Albino Animals"- (Darby Creek, 2004) was named an Orbis Pictus recommended title by the NCTE. It's a recommended book, not the winner, but Kelly is over-the-moon about it. And this is not her only WAHOO for this amazing book: GO KELLY!!

** ALA Quick Pick for 2005 . . . .Scholastic Book Fair Selection
Orbis Pictus Recommended 2005 . . . . . Junior Library Guild Selection
* Read Kelly's latest WAHOO

Carmen has a terrific book out titled, "CESAR: ¡Sí, Se Puede! Yes, We Can!" - published in 2004 by Marshall Cavendish Children's Books. It is a biography in poems about the farm worker César Chávez. Carmen's book received two "Notables" - one from the American Library Association, and another from
the National Council for Social Studies. Big WAHOOS for both notables, mate.

UPDATE: Just recently, the Oregonian Newspaper ran a terrific piece about Carmen and her "CESAR." Great review too!!

Agy Wilson received a scholarship to Chautauqua! I hear Agy feels like those athletes yelling "I'm going to Disney!" at the camera - Well she's going to Chautauqua! WAHOO! She has also opened a Cafe Press shop with Kid writer/illustrator friendly agy-stuff - take a peek and let her know what you think.

Debby G. Debby is all fired up and dancing n the ceiling, because Children's author Ellen Jackson interviewed her this month, for the "Secrets of Success" part of Ellen's website.. And the secret is: drumroll, please... 42. (Or was that the secret to life?) Actually, the secret for Debby was mostly revising her tail off. Click HERE for the interview link. Debby is the author of "STORKY: How I Lost My Nickname and Won the Girl" - Putnam, April 2005. Big WAHOO mate!

Varsha has emerged from the shadows to share that her book,"How Many Kisses Do You Want Tonight?" made it to the Texas Library Association
2x2 reading list for 2005. WAHOO! Click to view the full list .. . . . . . . UPDATE: Varsha's book is now available in Australia (Koala books), and has been translated into Korean! It is in its 3rd printing!! WAHOO! Varsha wants volunteers to come visit and pinch her - any takers?

Barbara Skalak's book, "Waddle, Waddle, Quack, Quack, Quack," Chronicle Books 2005, is not only OUT, but is in its SECOND printing. Now that's a WAHOO!

Diane Robert's book, "Made You Look," has been chosen for the
Master Reading List for the Nutmeg award in CT. I am thrilled. Then, Kathryn
Lay sent her an e-mail saying it had been put on the Master List in KY,
too. Diane is stunned but so very thrilled.

Cynthia Leitich Smith is a lady of many writing talents, a website and a blog - all worth a visit. Her tentativly titled "Tantalize" (Candlewick, fall 2006 - ages 14-up). It's a contemporary upper-level YA gothic fantasy, set in Austin. Sort of a multi-monster-verse with a southwest twist. Anyone interested in her process (and lack thereof) is welcome to read about it at spookycyn . Cynthis says: "This book has been a project of great fun and great solace, a world I could crawl into and just be for a while. I'm about to receive the "marked-up" copy (so my fear factor is in high gear). At the moment, I can talk around it but not about it--neurotic beast that I am." WAHOO! This woman is smokin' HOT!

Jessica's story, "The Day of the Tornado." is in the February edition of Saplings magazine. Big WAHOO for Jessica. This is her first published piece and she is thrilled.

Pnina Moed Kass's book, "Real Time" (Clarion) has just won the Association of Jewish Libraries, Sydney Taylor Award, for best new book for older children, exemplifying "The highest literary standards while authentically portraying
the Jewish experience." A WAHOO indeed! This is a subject that needs writing about more often.

Kathryn Lay, author of the mid-grade humor novel "Crown Me," (Holiday House) received a contract from Writer's Digest for an article, tentatively titled, "Make Them Laugh: Writing Humor for Children." This is for an upcoming issue on Writing for Children. Interviews include: Cynthia Kadohata (Newbery winner), SCBWI's first Sid Fleishman award winner for humor novel, Bruce Coville, Dotti Enderle, Steve Young, and many others. If this isn't a WAHOO I don't know what is!!

Stacia Deutsch was taped for CSPAN BOOK TV while speaking to Murch Elementary School, at the Politics and Prose bookstore in Washington DC. Stacia and her writing partner, Rhody Cohon, are writing a series of historical fiction books titled, "Blast to the Past." At this event, Stacia was using the first book in their series, "Blast to the Past: Lincoln's Legacy." The book features time travel, and asks the question: What would the world be like if Abraham Lincoln quit the presidency, never issuing the Emancipation Proclamation? Their "Blast to the Past" series is published by Simon and Schuster. The series is geared to 2-4th grade. Check out Stacia's and Rhody's website for all the fun details. Watch CSPAN-BOOK TV on these dates to see Stacia strut her stuff -
3:30 pm - 2/21/05 - ET OR 3:30 am - 2/22/05 - ET

Jennifer Margulis got a call from Willow Creek Press inviting her to do a book that is called WHY BABIES DO THAT: 40 Quirky Baby Behaviors Explained (or something like that). It will be a gift book in hard cover and includes gorgeous color photos: everything from why babies drool to why babies say "no" before they say yes. Jennifer is looking forward to writing it. This is her first hardcover single author book and, although it is a writing-for-hire gig she is very excited about it. WAHOO #2 - Jennifer also just started writing a parenting column called "Tales From the Crib" for the Ashland Daily Tidings. Click here to read her latest column. Jennifer earns a DOUBLE WHAMMY WAHOO!!

Kathryn Lay has received her first "fan" e-mail from a kid, a total stranger in Washington state, who read and loved Crown Me! The kid asked Kathryn all those fun questions that kids ask. Such as:

What is it like to be an author? Is it fun? Is it pressured? Is it easy?
Do you have any kids or pets? Kathryn admits that for a first time author it's a big big thrill. She says. "I almost feel like a real author now."

Hey Kathryn, we always KNEW you were a real author - Get used to it, mate! Click here to go back further for this book.

Paula Obering sold a poem to Ladybug some time ago. It is now officially slated to be in their June 2005 issue! It's called "Pass the Salad." Paula can hardly wait to see how they illustrate it. Great going Mmate!

Ted Butler won't be allowed to moan and groan anymore to his online friends about his publisher and the long delays. Things ARE happening! His e-mail delivered the proofs for two YA SF books. And the US Mail delivered an official signed copy of Ted's third contract ( for the third series book.) So he is retracting his moaning and groaning about not hearing anything. Ted states, "I'm so pleased I'm just about able to reach the asteroid belt on Euphoria!"

Ted says that the following three titles, from publisherWindstorm Creative , will be out at the end of March 2005:
* "2176 : Birth of the Belt Republic" - ISBN 1-59092-234-4 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . * "Menace Beyond the Moon" - ISBN 1-59092-235-2 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . * "Secret Fleets." Is his newly contracted third book. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . * A fourth book, "Royal Threat," is nearly completed. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

All three of Ted's books are part of a YA/Science Fiction.Series. BRIEF SYNOPSIS: "Gil Klanz is a sixteen year old who has moved to the asteroid belt. There he becomes disgraced for his part in a school prank involving a swimming pool of Jell-O. He moves into belter society and becomes involved in righting the wrongs of the all powerful Belt Corporation."

Jen is alone in the middle of nowhere with very little cell phone reception and desperately needs to share her GREAT NEWS! She has just sold her second book ( title not yet decided) to Random House. And since her first book for them, titled "Golden," won't come out until the summer of 2006, the fact that they have already bought another of her books is definitely a WAHOO in the making. Jen asks all of you to celebrate with her.

Elizabeth Dulemba can now hold a copy of a new book, "The Prince's Diary," by Renee Ting. The Publisher is Shen's Books. The big WAHOO is that Elizabeth illustrated this book! How's that for cool!! These are preview copies, so the book isn't commercially available for about another week or so. Elizabeth has been checking the place-holder on Amazon every day. Her name is on the cover! It's official! She has been trying to break into this field for about 3 1/2 years now - full time . . . working her bum off. The publisher found Elizabeth from illustration mailers she sent out months before. So, the old adage IS true . . . there is no such thing as an overnight success!

Dara Lehner's special and poignant story about her father has found a home. It is titled "Last Flight." The anthology it appears in is called Our Fathers Who Art In Heaven....And What They Continue To Teach Us. It is scheduled for release in June 2005. The Publisher is the Our Fathers Who Art in Heaven Foundation. A gentle and heartfelt WAHOO to Dara and her dad. This is a short story that needed the right time, the right place, and Dara's heart finally ready to "let it go!" **Dara's previous WAHOO

Dotti Enderle announced the acceptance for this picture book a few months ago, but she has finally signed the contract for, "Granny Gert and the Bunion Brothers" with Pelican Publishing. It's to be illustrated by Joe Kulka. Dotti is a powerhouse of a writer with many WAHOOS to her credit. Check out her great list of books here or visit her Fortune Tellers Club

Kelly Milner Halls just signed a contract for a new book for Boyds Mills Press titled "Dino Builders." And on top of that, she also got word that Roaring Brook Press will publish her orphaned anthology, "Girl Meets Boy." Kelly is a dynamo: one of the few writers that supports herself and her two daughters by writing - articles, interviews and books. This is a well deserved WAHOO! Read Kelly's previous YAHOO

Paeony Lewis want us all to celebrate with her. Three years after the original acceptance, her new picture book is out in both the UK and the USA. In the US it's called "No More Cookies!" and is published by Scholastic (under The Chicken House imprint). It's illustrated by Brita Branstrom. The UK edition is titled "No More Biscuits!"

There's also a difference in typefaces between the two editions. The US edition has a shiny jacket. The UK edition doesn't and instead has a matt cover with spot varnish. Paeony says,"Sadly it'll be a struggle to get British people to part with their money until the paperback comes out. The Kirkus and Bulletin US reviews have been fine, but publishing is such a fickle business, and this is meant to be a series, but won't be if the first doesn't sell. I'm a born worrier."
Paeony's book is on Amazon, so take a look! BIG WAHOO to you mate!

Lynne Hansen has won the 2005 Eppie Award for young adult books with "Heritage of Horror Book 2: The Change" - Hard Shell Word Factory. Not only did she win, but she had TWO of her books in the finals!! That is definitely a WAHOO moment! Lynne says, "The award is gorgeous. I've wanted to win an Eppie for ages. Two years ago The Return finaled but didn't win. I mean, how cool is it to have a historical werewolf novel win for best YA novel?
You can view all the Eppie winners here.

Katrina Martin Davenport first book, an illustrated early reader titled "Denise's Mold," is coming out April 1st. 2005. There should be a copy ready for her by the end of the month! The book combines science and a curious young girl. It's based on adventures Katrina's mom had when she was young. Katrina is excited, and plans book tours in the SF Bay Area and Denver. She says, "If you live in either of those places, maybe I'll see you at a signing!"
Visit her website for more details

Cynthia Leitich Smith is one of the contributing authors for Moccasin Thunder: American Indian Stories For Today, edited by Lori Marie Carlson (HarperCollins Children's Books, fall 2005). This is an anthology collection of short stories about contemporary Native American teenagers. Ages 12-up.

Features "A Real-Live Blond Cherokee And His Equally Annoyed Soul-mate"
by Cynthia Leitich Smith; other contributing authors: Joy Harjo; Sherman
Alexie; Richard Van Camp; Linda Hogan; Joseph Bruchac; Louise Erdrich;
Susan Power; Greg Sarris; and Lee Francis. This has got to be a multiple WAHOO! Visit Cynthia's Website and BLOG for a real treat plus great writing information.

Read Cynthia's previous WAHOO

Debbie Roppolo anthology"Some Snowballs Don't Melt," has been accepted by Chicken Soup for the Soul, for their upcoming Chicken Soup for the Dog Lover's Soul. It's scheduled to be released Oct. 2005. Not sure whether Debbie needs a big WOOF or a BIG WAHOO - let's give her both!

Linda Joy Singleton says, that at an SCBWI event in Davis, CA on March 19th, editor Joy Peskin from Viking used CW member Dori Chaconis's books as an example of GREAT rhyme. She read aloud from Dori's books "Mommy Will You" and "On a Wintery Morn." Joy likes funny, repetitive books. And she said that Dori's words were "graceful and eloquent." Big WAHOO for the talented Dori, and to Linda also, for letting us know about this good news.

Ps-s-st! Linda Joy has some neat series books of her own out now. Check them out HERE

Judy Byers wants to let all of you know that she has just released her new E-book, "Claude Henry Learns to Gobble" in Adobe 5 format. It is available TODAY, on her new website. Illustrator Kevin Collier did a marvelous job with the cover art and the title page. He also designed the website. Judy says he is truly a talented gift from God, and wants to thank Kevin from the bottom of her heart. This calls for WAHOOS for both Judy & Kevin!! Gobble! Gobble!

Lara Lakshmi's book, titled "A Friend By Any Other Name," is being published by Putti Press. Her picture book will be out in the Fall of 2005. For more details visit Lara's Website . This is a small press, but Lara said they treated her very well. WAHOOS to both Lara and her publisher!

Susanna Reich's book, "Jose! Born to Dance" will be published by Simon & Schuster in August 2005. Big WAHOO Susanna! Her website is being constructed - URL to come later.

Dotti Enderle wanted to let you all know that The Ghost of Shady Lane, the 8th and FINAL book of her Fortune Tellers Club series is now in. Her editor at Llewellyn over-nighted two copies to Dotti, so she didn't have to wait for a shipment of contributor copies. This editor has been great to work with, even though Dotti had to hang tough at times. Here is a link to Amazon. This final book is about Anne and is an old-fashioned ghost story. A huge WAHOO to Dotti for a marathon effort. Our Promo Ho is riding high!

Donna J. Shepherd has her poem, Concrete Map, in the brand new bimonthly children's e-zine The Inspiration Station. This is the magazine's first edition, and Donna is happy to be a part of its debut. Visit Donna's Website WAHOO to you and congratulations!

Diana J. Smith's wants everyone to know that after years of blood sweat and
tears, her first children's book, Plight of Queen Bee, will be coming out in September. It is in verse for children 3-8. Diana's pen name is"Simone Fairchild," and the publisher is the Better Be Write Pulblishing Company. This book is part of a series with more to come in the future. Characters: Ellery Brown the detective, Queen Bee, and Hector Huitt the thief. Congratulations on a well deserved WAHOO.

Dorothy Francis wants to warn her writing friends. Do not throw any manuscripts away, and DO keep a couple of extra copies of your published books. During the past 5 years, Thorndike has republished 10 of her young adult books from the 1970s., doing them in large print. Dorothy is thrilled to have them back in libraries again. The 2 most recent titles : Hwaiian Interlude and Studio Affair. Also, she has signed a contract for The Ghost of Graydon Place. This was originally published by Scholastic, and some of you older readers may remember having seen it. Click Here to see other titles.

Debbie G. Her first novel finally comes out on 4/21/2005. "Storky: How I Lost My Nickname and Won the Girl" (Putnam). Debbie is doing a book signing
at the L.A. Times Festival of Books on Sunday, April 24, between 12:00 and 1:00, in Mrs. Nelson's Bookstore booth #839 in the children's area. Another signing happens with YA author Marlene Perez in Orange County, CA
on May 7th, and one with YA authors Mary Pearson and Melissa Lion in La Jolla on May 26. Check her Website for details. HUGE WAHOO mate. Way to go!

Kathie has a story in a book called "God Answers Mom Prayers" The editor/author is Allison Bottke. The title of my short story is "Pray the Impossible" The book is a compilation of different stories- about 20-25. Allison is an author of many books, and wrote the preface for this one: the rest are from other contributing authors. This is Kathie's first paid published work! She is thrilled to see her story in print, and see her bio in such illustrious company. Amazon.com has it, plus Barnes and Noble and Christian Book stores. WAHOO Kathie. You did a terrific job!

Kevin Collier - Baker Trittin Press, of Indiana, print publsiher of Tweener Books, is coming out with their first little e-book! And Kevin got the spot! "The
Adventures of Tommy Tweener" is supposed to come out May 1. Kinda
fun... Kevin also has 2 print books out via them. However, this e-book was a
challenge. They asked him to create an adventure based on their company mascot. Kevin also illustrated the cover of the e-book. Check his website for other books. That's a double WAHOO for you mate!!

Janice Levy - "Alley Oops," Janice's latest picture book, is out in the stores. The book is about bullying, told from the bully's perspective. Info can be found on her website . Direct questions, and requests for orders, autographed copies, etc. can be forwarded to Janice. WAHOO indeed!

Lisa Schroeder's picture book "Baby Can't Sleep," will be published by Sterling Publishing. You can see the cover art on her WebSite

NOTE: Below, in Lisa's own words, is the saga of how her PB became published. It stresses the importance of networking and being in tune with what different houses are looking for. Lisa earns a BIG WAHOO for sharing her learning experience

In the fall of 2003, I heard that Sterling Publishing was starting to develop a picture book line. One of my on-line friends, who I met through the message boards at write4kids.com and verlakay.com, sold a PB story to them. I got excited and sent off a picture book story I was especially fond of at the time. I received one of the nicest personal rejection letters I've ever gotten. I knew this was an editor I wanted to submit to again. I e-mailed the on-line friend and asked her, what kind of book did you sell? Looking back, I should have asked that question the first time, but live and learn. She told me it was a rhyming bedtime story for the younger child. I sent the editor a rhyming bedtime story I had received personal rejections on, and three months later, she called me and told me they wanted to buy it.

Sherry Rogers is a writer/illustrator. . . Her first illustrated book is listed on Barnes and Noble. "Counting Little Geckoes" is a board book written by Charline Profiri, & illustrated by Sherry Rogers. Publisher is the RGU Group. B & N listed her as Sheryl, but it should be Sherry. If you click on the book you see a really big version. Her book should also be on Amazon soon. Sherry is thrilled! Big WAHOO to you mate.

Linda Joy Singleton has her latest book, "The Seer #2 Last Dance" in bookstores everywhere. Publisher is Llewellyn Publications. Linda is the series queen! She is also a very nice lady. If your local store doesn't have it, just ask them to order it. Or check Amazon and Barnes and Noble online. Huge WAHOO to Linda - she deserves it. Linda is the poster girl for Sticking With it!

"Book Marketing from A-Z," by Francine Silverman, was published in mid-March by Infinity Publishing. Subscribers are entitled to a 20% discount. Contact Francine for the code. You can also subscribe to Francine's monthly e-Zine, the "Book Promotion Newsletter."

** Francine's Book Marketing from A-Z marks its 20th Rave Review!! This deserves a double WAHOO!! I have listed just a few of those raves below:

"Everything a new (or even experienced) author needs to begin marketing,"
Jeremy Hoover, Hoover Reviews

"Read it cover to cover, and keep it at hand to refer to often."
Bob Spear, Heartland Reviews (four stars)

". . .fresh ideas and success strategies in quick snippets that are easily
digested." Michael Meanwell, Enterprising Writer

". . . so many great ideas that it's hard not to get your imagination going."
Heather Grove, Burning Void Reviews

".these valuable tips should improve the sales of books in any genre"
Joyce Handzo, In the Library Reviews

"What a variety of creative ideas!" Patricia Fry, SPAWN (Small Publishers,
Artists and Writers Network).

"...before you spend thousands of dollars on a marketing campaign, invest
about twenty bucks and get this book! Graciela Sholander, Amazon

"Want to grasp what it means to market that masterpiece? This book tells
you." Carolyn Scheidies, Author's Choice Reviews - (Click "Non-Fiction"

"With 12 published books, I have acquired a lot of experience...And
yet...I discovered promotional ideas that were new to me." Bob Rich. (Will
appear in his newsletter next month).

Paula Obering, an old friend and past critique partner, has her poem"Please Pass the Salad" in the June edition of Ladybug magazine - Big WAHOO mate!!

Stacia Deutsch and Rhody Cohon newest in their Blast to the Past series, published by Simon & Schuster, "Disney's Dream," was released June ist. The first book, "Lincoln's Legacy," has already gone into a THIRD printing. Both are thrilled! This indeed calls for a big WAHOO! Visit their website for more information.

Ann Herrick's Young Adult novel, "The Perfect Guy," originally published by
Bantam, has been re-issued by Hard Shell Word Factory. It received the International Reading Association/Children's Book Council "Children's Choice"award, and the American Library Association "Recommended Book for Reluctant Readers" award. A free Teacher Activity Kit for use with The Perfect Guy is also available on request. Please E-Mail Ann for it. Congratulations and WAHOOS are in order.

Bonnie M. Schram's "Verbs to Go," a thesaurus of verbs, is now available on CD. This is a must have book for all writers who want active and powerful verbs in their writing. Cost is $20.00 including postage & shipping. Click on Bonnie's name, and check out her website for information about the extra goodies that are offered with this CD. Big WAHOO for a job well done!

Miriam Hees publisher of Blooming Tree Press, wants to congratulations two CW'ers, Susan A. Meyers (Author) and Rose Gauss (Illustrator) on the publication of "Callie and the Stepmother." This is their first Chapter Book from Blooming Tree Press. New Associate Editor Judy Gregerson did a great job. WAHOOS all around for this one!!

Donna Shepherd has a poem in the June-July issue of KidVisions. It is titled "Buggy Brain." Kevin Scott Collier did an illustration to go with it that's hilarious! Donna has received lots of great feedback about this one. Check it out HERE . A big WAHOO to Donna.

Verlie Hutchens has a bunch of stuff to crow about. January's Highlights featured her article on "Frozen Bubbles," while their June issue has her article, "Turning Sounds Around." AND Boyds Mills Press has published her "Craft Builder" segment in their "Fun-to-Make Crafts for Halloween, Christmas, Easter, and Every Day." That's 3 WAHOOS for Verlie. Way to go mate!!

Carol Nevius Jones's book " Karate Hour" has been named a "Notable New Book" by the International Reading Association. This is something like being named runner up to their big award winners. There were only a dozen or so books on the list. Carol's reading specialist friend says it's a big deal. I have read her book, and it's GREAT! Definitely a big YAHOO!!

Laura Bowers tells me she has just received a contract for her young adult novel, "Beauty Shop for Rent." Will be published spring of 2007 with Harcourt, Inc. This is about a fourteen-year-old girl determined to never walk in her mother’s footsteps after being abandoned to a world of unique women, manicures and gossip. Big WAHOO indeed Laura.

Kathryn Lay just discovered that her terrific book "Crown Me," is on the 2006/2007 Nomination Suggested Reading list for the Texas Bluebonnet Award. On top of that, "Crown Me" is also on the list for the Hawaii Nene Award for 2006/2007, and was also nominated for the 2005/2006 New York Charlotte Award. Kathryn is thrilled! Click to go back and read more. Let me shout WAHOO for her!

Susanna Reich's book "Jose! Born to Dance: The Story of Jose Limon," illustrated by Raul Colon, will be published in August by Paula Wiseman Books, an imprint of Simon & Schuster. Age range 5-8. This is Susanna's second book and first picture book. Definitely a WAHOO moment.

Marty Jones/MJ Arts has just finished illustrating her 5th children's book project; a biography titled, "Audrey Hepburn." This is a Korean language picture book for Glenndoman, Korea. "Why Audrey?" I asked Marty. "Ms. Hepburn is idolized as strongly in Asia as she is here [typically, the "Audrey" of the fifties and early sixties]. One of her greatest attractions as Unicef's Goodwill Amabassador was the perception in Asia and third world countries that, 'she is just like us.' Which means, skinny, quiet, indifferent to her celebrity. Audrey Hepburn lived a similar childhood to that of Anne Frank, but with a better outcome. She was always a refugee in her heart." This picture book will be printed in Korean, and won't be distributed in America.

Marty has also begun another picture book for the same publisher, titled, Arthur Conan Doyle's, "A Scandal in Bohemia," also for Glenndoman Korea. Both these books will be published this year. Wonderful Marty - a double WAHOO!!

Anne Marie Pace feels really weird about this good news - because it's been a while folks. . . Tada! Anne Marie is a winner in the SmartWriters.com W.I.N.NERS writing competition. Go HERE and scroll down to the mid grade category. The opening of her Historical Fiction MG won first place. WAHOO to you Anne Marie!!

Bob Griggs has sold a number of stories about his boyhood to Good Old Days
Magazine. Now, the story about his friendship with Jim Faubion has been accepted. It will be published by the House of White Birches, as a part of an anthology titled "The Best Years of Our Lives," revolving around the aftermath of WWII. Bob says, "Jim Faubion was an exceptional person. He took me under his wing as a sort of kid brother in the several years before he died from his war wounds and I couldn't be more proud of seeing my story about him appear in print." Congratulations! This is indeed a big WAHOO for Bob.

Carolyn Conahan's new book "The Twelve Days of Christmas Dogs," and will be published by Dutton Books (Penguin Putnam Group) It's due out this fall - officially available on Sept. 2005. Big WAHOO for this.

Kelly Terwilliger - her first book, "Bubbe Isabella and the Sukkot Cake," is finally out. Published by Karben, an imprint of Lerner. Kelly needed patience, because it took 3 years! Big WAHOO to Kelly!

Michael J. Davies - his book, "Mashu And The Mystery Of The Missing Image," is out - Published by Wings-e-Press. Michael's book has already received several rave reviews. Huge WAHOOS are well deserved.

Yvonne Ventresca book, "Publishing," was recently published by Lucent Books. It contains information on five careers in book publishing: writers, editors, agents, book designers, and salespeople. It's meant for a middle grade audience, but Yvonne thinks anyone learning about the field would find it interesting. (It features quotes from several CW writers, for one thing!) Check out her website if you need more information. A WAHOO moment indeed!

Linda Joy Singleton's third (and last) STRANGE ENCOUNTERS book, "Sea Switch," will be released in September. Linda is rightly proud of this twisted mermaid tale. Lots of funny moments, like when Cassie has to clean up prehistoric sea monster poop, and when she had to babysit mer-kids. There's also an evil magician, and you guessed it - Cassie becomes a mermaid herself? She had fun writing this book, totally letting her imagination go wild. Check out "Sea Switch" by clicking on Linda's name. WAHOO for Linda! A nice lady who deserves all the praise she receives. See other books etc., by linda

Michelle Markel's picture book, "Dreamer From the Villiage: The Story of Marc Chagall," illustrated by Emily Lisker, and published by Henry Holt, is now out. It is a bio of Chagall for ages 5 and up. WAHOO Michelle. Sounds great.

Belinda Mooney has been working hard. She has three books coming out in August, all by Warner Press. They are as follows: New Testament Activity Book for Intermediates, Old Testament Activity Book for Intermediates, and Joseph - a Preschool Activity Book. Three WAHOOS for Belinda - she has earned them!!

Kim Grossman Finkel's book, "Billie's World," My Journey Books publisher, has received terrific reviews. If you'd like to check it out, you can read excerpts on her publisher's website, plus a fabulous review from Midwest Books. The target audience is girls age 9-14. WAHOO Kim!!

Sybilla Cook tells me that "Elementary Battle of the Books," a joint effort by Sybilla, Frances Corcoran, Beverley Fonnesbeck, and Roz Goodman, has been published by Upstart Books, a division of Highsmith Publishing. This is for teachers and librarians who are involved, or may be thinking about beginning a Battle of the Books program. It also includes a large number of activities to make reading fun, and includes questions on over 300 books for grades K-5. WOW! This is indeed a WAHOO occasion. Congratulations to all of you. Check Billie's other book sales.

Nancy Wagner's picture book, "Effie's Imag," (publisher Prairieland Press), has been selected as one of the winners of the Learning Magazine's 2006 Teachers' Choice Award for Children's Books. It will be featured in the February / March issue of The Mailbox Bookbag and the April issue of Learning Magazine! WAHOO indeed for Nancy.

Susan Vaught's YA novel, "Storm Witch," has been nominated for the ALA's Best Books for Young Readers list. Bloomsberry US is the publisher - 1/3/2005. Susan, you were outed by Laraine Anne Barker. This is indeed a WAHOO moment.

Dotti Enderle's book, "The Cotton Candy Catastrophe at the Texas Fair"
has been nominated for the 2005-2006 Golden Spur Award, sponsored by the Texas Reading Association. WAHOO Dotti -you've done it again, mate! See other book sales of Dotti's

Carol Nevius Jones just got word that "Karate Hour" won the 20O5 National Parenting Publications Award. Marshall Cavendish is the publisher. You have a winner, Carol. WAHOO! See earlier news of Karate Hour

Randy Mortenson just had a box containing copies of his first book, "Landon Snow and the Auctor's Riddle," delivered to his doorstep from Barbour Publishing. After 11 years of blood, sweat and tears, Randy has made it. This is WAHOO material for sure. Congratulations, and may your book's October launch be a terrific success!

Rose Zediker - received an acceptance in today's mail from Gryphon House for her craft activity, "Star Spangled Banner Napkin Rings." It will be included in their Giant Encyclopedia of Monthly Activities, with a publication date of June 2006. Rose wants to thank the CW list and Dotti Enderle, for letting her know when Gryphon House were taking submissions. Big WAHOO to Rose, CW and Dotti. . . Talk about a team effort!!

Kathryn Lay - Her terrific book "Crown Me" is up for even MORE awards. Texas State Reading Association's Golden Spur Award for 2005, in the Intermediate Reader category. It's also on the Missouri State Teacher's Association's suggeted reading list for their Reading Circle program for students. And on the Battle of the Books list for the Birdville, Texas school district for 2005/2006. Click here to go back to June, and read about this book's other achievements. Mega WAHOO to you Kathryn!

Jennifer Margulis' book, "Why Babies Do That" will be in stores September, beginning the week of the 19th. Jennifer Margulis is fluent in infantese. She has translated our babies’ love of bouncy balls, their funny faces and other quirks for all parents who have wondered why babies do what they do. Jennifer is a widely published freelance writer whose articles have appeared in Ms Magazine, The New York Times, The Christian Science Monitor, Pregnancy Magazine and more. Click here to see an earlier WAHOO for her book.

Dori Chaconas' newest book, "Christmas Mouseling," published by Penguin, is another gem. Read about this talented lady, and all her books, on Penguin's Website If you want to read a great article on rhyming by Dori, there's a link to it on the Secrets page of my website. A big WAHOO to you Dori!

Miriam Hees of Blooming Tree Press has done it again. "Callie and the Stepmother" is a wonderful story by Susan Meyers, and illustrated by Rose Gauss. Both CW members!! Released in September, the book received "5 Stars!" from the Mid West Book Review by reviewer Molly Martin - "Absorbing Read . . . Recommended for school use. . . Click Here to read the review. Triple WAHOOS go to all concerned!

Roxyanne Young, Editorial DirectorSmartWriters.com was interviewed for the current 2006 CWIM. - page 364, along with Kathryn Lay and Jane Yolen. There are also other familiar names gracing the CWIM pages: Kelly Milner Halls, Lisa Rondinelli Albert, Barb Odanaka, and Greg Fishbone, plus a lovely Editor's Note from Alice Pope. Fiona Bayrock has a byline, and Sue Bradford Edwards has an article on selling reprints. A multiple WAHOO to all these great writers as well as CWIM and the terrific CW list.

Kathryn Lay has a story in Chicken Soup for the Girl's Soul. It is titled "Lost and Found Dream." Kathryn is realy rollin' these days. Check here, here & here for her previous WAHOOS.

Eric Luper's young adult book, "Big Slick,"will be published by Farrar, Strauss & Giroux. in the fall of 2007. It is about a boy who begins by stealing from his father's business to play poker, and then digs himself into a deeper pit with every step he takes. Now, here's the amazing part - revision was not necessary! And this for a first book. A WAHOO in spades! Congratulations Eric.

Carmen Bernier Grand's book of poetry, "César: ¡Sí, Se Puede! Yes, We Can!" published by Marshall Cavendish, 2004, has been nominated for the Oregon Book award. The sponsering organization for the Oregon Book award is Oregon Litererary Arts. Every year they give away fellowships (yes! free money!) to Oregon writers. A big WAHOO goes to Carmen!

Leda Schubert's book, "Ballet of the Elephants," illustrated by Robert Andrew Parker, Roaring Brook Press, is due out in the spring of 2006. On top of this, Leda also has another book, "Here Comes Darrel" (Houghton), illustrated by Mary Azarian, out right now! How's that for a double WAHOO!

Ruth McNally Barshaw's book, "Ellie McNoodle," will be published in May 2007 by Bloomsbury US. Ruth both wrote and did the art work for this highly illustrated book. The grapevine has it, that Ruth's unique sketchbook style art captivated everyone who saw it. Way to GO girl, and big WAHOOS too!!

Donna J. Shepherd's book, "The Lonely Lightning Bug," is available as a CD or as a zippered download. Illustrated by Kevin Scott Collier & cover by Andy Cooke - publisher Guardian Angel Publishing. Proceeds from this book go to the StarShine Hospice, the Hospice of Cincinnati Children’s Hospital Medical Center: Order here. Big WAHOO mate!

Judy Cox's "Don't Be Silly, Mrs. Millie," publisher Marshall Cavendish, and illustrated by Joe Mathieu. This is now out on educational video from Nutmeg Media. Way to go, Judy! WAHOO'S to you mate. Check back for more good news.

Kathryn Lay's "Crown Me" has won the Texas State Reading Association's Golden Spur Award for Intermediate Novel. Kathryn was shocked - wasn't even at the award ceremony when it was announced! However, anyone who has read this terrific novel will not be one bit shocked - just happy for our Kathryn. Another well deserved WAHOO! Click HERE to read earlier details.

Jennifer Macaire's YA book, "Horse Passages," published by Medallion Press,
will be out in December - available in most book stores. Check out Jennifer's Website for all the details. This is science fiction about horses who can travel through outer space - a horse lover's dream come true. Maybe I should give her a WHINNY instead of a WAHOO?

Judy Cox's book, Don't Be Silly, Mrs. Millie! illustrated by Joe Mathieu, and published in 2005 by Marshall Cavendish, was named one of the Ten Best Children's Books of 2005 by TIME magazine, December 2005. The Oregon chapter of SCBWI is extremely proud of Judy. WAHOO mate! Way to GO! Check out this book's past accomplishments.