E-Mail me YOUR WAHOO

Well mates, Wahoos are for celebrating contract signings, book publication dates, or your book winning an award etc.

Cripes, we need something fun and encouraging to make up for that closet bulging with rejections, the burnt dinners, the husband leaving, and the kids forgotten (sorry) due to a pressing deadline.

And don't forget that cretin of an editor - you all know her! "Just one more teensy rewrite, and. . ."

E-MAIL ME and I will add the details of your latest writing success.

 

So, let's get on with it. . .

January - 2006

Stacia Deutsch and Rhody Cohon's 4th book in the BLAST TO THE PAST series, "King's Courage," published by Simon & Schuster, is now OUT! In this book, Abigail, Zack, Jacob, and Bo have two special challenges. They need to convince Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. to lead the famous voting rights march from Selma, Alabama, to Montgomery, Alabama; and they've got to do it with the twins' baby brother, Gabe, in tow! A great educational series. WAHOOS to both Stacia & Rhody - keep em coming! BREAKING NEWS: These 2 ladies have just been offered three more books in this series - #7, #8 & #9.

Hey, I'm running out of WAHOOS!

Linda Joy Singleton's new book, the third in her"The Seer" Series, "Witch Ball,"came out officially in January. Published by Llewellyn. Linda loves the cover! (on her website or Amazon). There is a fun twist to the usual plot, when the psychic becomes the one to receive a prediction that foretells her death in five days. Linda is keeping her fingers crossed so that this book sells well enough for a demand for more in THE SEER series of mysteries. WAHOO to Linda. this series - may they continue on for years.

Kathryn Lay, author of the popular, "Crown Me," just sold "Scaredy-Cat Stephen," a short story, to Highlights. On top of this, Total Reader.com bought 3 of her short stories this week for a testing group (my 22nd to them since August) for children. Kathryn is on a roll, mates. WAHOO!

Robin Koontz, the RA for Oregon SCBWI, has 2 pop-up books coming out in 2006 from Little Simon: "Up All Night Counting" and "Creepy Crawly Colors." Robin writes and illustrates, and she told me that "Up All Night Counting" sat around in a bottom drawer for years, until it leaped out in 2003 and begged to become a Novelty Book. Take a sneak peek . This is a tough market, but Robin is winning! A double WAHOO goes to her.

Nathaniel Lachenmeyer's picture book"The Decoy," publisher Mitten Press/Ann Arbor Media. This is a comic adventure about a lighthouse keeper who thinks that the decoy he carved has come to life. A big WAHOO to Nathaniel!

** Nathaniel earns a DOUBLE WAHOO folks. Read below:

"Broken Beaks," by Nathaniel Lachenmeyer, and illustrated by Hans Christian Anderson Medallist, Robert Ingpen is now available in the USA. It was originally published in Australia in 2003, and has been translated and published in Korea and Brazil. "Broken Beaks" won a major Brazilian book award in 2005. Nathaniel was inspired to write it because of his late father's experiences with schizophrenia and homelessness. The bird's broken beak leads children gently down the path of understanding. Go to his website ( click on the title) to read awesome reviews, and peek at the illustrations. What can I say. . .? How about, "Don't miss reading this book!" Even my WAHOO seem a bit tame after those reviews.

Jane Bedell (Oregon SCBWI) has won an Oregon Literary Fellowship. The award was for $500.00, and the catergory was Young Readers Literature. The award isn't attached to any specific piece, although the work Jane submitted was from a middle grade novel titled, "Saving Liberty." It is to be used for the advancement of her writing. What a neat way to earn a WAHOO!

Bob McLeod's picture book, "Super Hero ABC," published by HarperCollins,
will be out later in January. This is the first book Bob wrote and illustrated himself: he's an old hand at comic book art. Check it out on his website. A big WAHOO to Bob, and may this be the first of many books from him.

Susanna Reich's mid grade, a "Biography of George Catlin" (as yet unnamed), and published by Clarion, will soon be available in stores. A big WAHOO for Susanna, and all the research involved.

Simon Rose's first three novels, The Alchemist's Portrait, The Sorcerer's Letterbox and The Clone Conspiracy are now available in the USA. They can be purchased on-line at Barnes and Noble and Amazon. Autographed copies available directly from Simon. Another of his books, The Emerald Curse, will be published in Canada in the spring, and in the US, UK, Australia and New Zealand in the fall. All are distributed by Orca Book Publishers - and originally published by Tradewind Books Check out Simon's website for great reviews. WAHOO! How's that for a 4 book line up. Way to GO mate!

Illustrator Elizabeth Dulemba's first PB, "The Prince's Diary," written by Renee Ting, illustrated by Elizabeth, and published in March 2005 (by Shen's Books), has been named the No. 1, 2006 Valentine's Day Pick by BookSense, in conjunction with the Association of American Publishers. Big WAHOO for illustrator Elizabeth and the author. She is ALSO illustrator of: "Glitter Girl and the Crazy Cheese," Mac/Adam Cage, due out spring 2006. Elizabeth is on a roll!

Bev Cooke's terrific book, Macrina the Elder, published by Conciliar Press, (it still doesn't have an official title ) and based on the life of Macrina the Elder, an early Christian saint, will be released in April of this year! Bev is off the wall with excitement. All her research and hard work has paid off. WAHOO indeed!

Maryann Schneider wrote Chapter 5 - Word Wars, of the online published The Muse on Writing Book . This is what you get when you mix 18 prolific writers from around the world in a cyber room, and ask them to share their writing wisdom and experience. WAHOO to Maryann for her part in this great project

Susan Taylor Brown's book, Robert Smalls Sails to freedom, Millbrook Press, is now on bookshelves. ALSO: her next book, Hugging the Rock, Tricycle Press, will soon be available. Try ordering through Book Sense. A two-fer for Susan. This WAHOO is well deserved.

Carmen T. Bernier-Grand's book, illustrated by David Diaz and published by Marshall Cavendish, "César: ¡Sí, Se Puede!Yes, We Can!"- their book just won the 2006 Pura Belpré (Author) Honor, AND Pura Belpré (Illustrator) Honor, honoring a Latino writer and illustrator whose children's books best portray, affirm, and celebrate the Latino cultural experience. WAHOO for Carmen T. Way to GO!!!

Susan Vaught's book, "Stormwitch, " Bloomsbury, 2005, made the ALA's Best Books for Young Adults 2006. That's a big WAHOO!

Nancy Sharp's Picture book "Effie's Image," Prairieland Press, was selected as one of their 2006 Teachers' Choice Award winners by Learning Magazine, and is being featured this month (Feb/March) in Mailbox Bookbag. It will be in Learning Magazine in April.

Shirley Smith Duke's first picture book is out. It is "No Bows!" (Peachtree), and illustrated by Jenny Mattheson. Big WAHOO to Shirley.

February 2006

Margot Finke now has 4 more books in her fun, educational series of PBs available through Writers Exchange E-Publishing. "Humdinger Hummers," "Mama Grizzly Bear," "Don't Et Platypus Stew," and "Never Say BOO to a Frilly" and other Aussie rhymes. Her BOOKS page shows covers, sample verses, and how to buy. . . . . A 4-way WAHOO indeed.

Don Tate's (illustrator) biography of former slave, Bill Traylor, "It Jes' Happened: When Bill Traylor Taught Himself to Draw," Publisher Lee & Low, has won an Honor in the Sixth Annual New Voices Award. A huge WAHOO goes to Don!

Terie Garrison has just signed contracts for the remaining books in her Fantasy Series for Llewellyn, "The DragonSpawn Cycle." The first book, 'AutumnQuest', is due out 1st. Sept., and they are currently on schedule to bring the rest of the books out in consecutive catalogs. Great news indeed. Big WAHOO for Terie.

Michelle Lord's first book, "Little Sap and Monsieur Rodin," publisher Lee
& Low, has just been released. You can purchase it from Amazon . Way to GO, Michelle!

Kevin Scott Collier's youth chapter book, "The Secret of Little Pine," is now available from Lulu Press . Also, Guardian Angel Publishing will be releasing his second "Hope The Angelfish" book this weekend. Great big WAHOO mate!

Simone Fairchild's second book in a three-book series about the Queen Bee of the Lilac Tree, "Queen Bee's Midnight Caper" is due to be come out very soon! Publisher, Abetterbewrite. See a Preview Here. Big WAHOO to Simone!

Catherine James is happy to announce that Guardian Angel Publishing has contracted another children's book from her, titled "The Sad Little Mouse." Kevin Scott Collier will again be doing the colorful artwork. Catherine has used the animal characters from the previous book ( Bobby Cottontail's Gift ), and introduced extra characters. A definite WAHOO!

Nathaniel Lachenmeyer's latest picture book, "A Haunted Picture Book,"
will be published by Atheneum: a terrifying and entertaining Halloween story
about a haunted picture book. Wow, I have shivers just reading the title! WAHOO indeed!

Deb Landry's first book, "Sticks Stones and Stumped!" is self-published with Bryson Taylor Publishing. Included with the book is a movie that Deb produced and directed. WOW! The book is directed at elementary age children and teachers on the subject of bullying in schools. This really deserves a WAHOO!

Tonia Stangherlin has just published her first children's novella, "T-Bird and the Island of Lost Cats" with Lulu. It's a mystery/adventure for 7-12 year olds and the young at heart. Big WAHOO for Tonia!

Michelle Markel's book, "Dream Town," published by Heyday Books and illustrated by Rick Reese, is now hitting bookstore shelves! Way to GO Michelle!

Judy Miller's picture book, "Just Too Little," (an e-book) has been released by publisher Writer's Exchange. Check it out HERE . Nice going Judy!!

Janee Trasler has double dipped!! She has 2 board books coming out with Little, Brown and Company - "Ghost Eats it All," due out Halloween 2006, and "Ghost Gets Dressed," due out Halloween 2007. Double WAHOO for Janee!

March 2006

Elizabeth O. Dulemba now has a contract for "Paco and the Giant Chile Plant" (a bilingual adaptation of Jack and the Beanstalk) from Raven Tree Press. Big WAHOO for Elizabeth!

Sheryl Gwyther, another of our Aussie authors, has her first children's novel, "Secrets of Eromanga," due for release by Lothian Books on May 1st. WAHOO Sheryl!

Bonnie Everett Hawkes has illustrated a new PB written by Evelyn Hall. Titled, "Dontay's Dog," it has just been released by publisher Lulu. Way to GO, Bonnie!

Max Anderson latest boy's adventure (the 8th) can be ordered now. Titled, "Reckless Runaway," it is another of his books guaranteed to keep reluctant readers turning the page. Big WAHOO for Max.

Donna J. Shepherd has a 'riddle-rhyme' titled "Mystery Meal" in the March edition of Fandangle Magazine Try it yourself. Wahoo Donna!

Sally Murphy has a grand total of 3 chapter books just out."Stuck!," "Bugged!" and "R is for Rolf," all three belong in the new ZigZags series from Australia's Oxford University Press. Check them out HERE. Huge WAHOOS go to Sally!

Dotti Enderle has done it AGAIN! She has a contract for her latest book "The Fat Stock Stampede at the Houston Livestock Show and Rodeo" - publisher Pelican Press. This book continues with the characters from Dotti's "Cotton Candy" story. This is Dotti's 17th book sale. While you're at it, check out her Fortune Teller's Club series. WAHOO indeed!

Nancy Coffelt's book, "Pug in a Truck" by Houghton Mifflin will come out this fall. Nancy also has two others getting ready for the shelves in 2007. They are: "Fred Stays With Me," Little Brown, and "Big, Bigger, Biggest" with Henry Holt. This is a 3-way WAHOO!

Judy Caughron Byers and Kevin Scott Collier (illustrator) have combined their talents to release their latest PB, "TURBO-KITTY - The Ultimate Race Cat." Your FREE download is available HERE - (click on the cover to purchase) WAHOOS to Judy & Kevin.!

Randy Mortenson's second in the Landon Snow series will be released later this month. Titled, "Landon Snow and the Shadows of Malus Quidam," it is published by Barbour Books. Read a Review. WAHOO Randy!
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Dave Smith's book , The Door in the Sky, for readers 9-12, is due to be released in May, 2006. The publisher is Publish America. Dave seems happy with the deal he got from his publisher. Good luck, mate, and a big WAHOO as well.

Darcy Pattison's book, "19 Girls and Me" (June 15 release from Philomel), has sold Taiwan and German translation rights. Taking into consideration all Darcy's books, this makes her sixth language: Swedish, Danish, Norwegian, Spanish, Chinese and German. Way cool. A definite WAHOO moment!

Kimberlie Clark wrote "Barnaby Gets Lost" & Kevin Scott Collier did the illustrations. Published by Lulu. You can take a look HERE Great teamwork mates. Congratulations & WAHOO!

Dori Chaconas has done it again! She has just sold her PB, "Quite by Accident"- a Mousey Love Story, to Bloomsbury USA. This is Dori's 17th book sale. WOW! Dori's is the Queen of delightful rhyming stories for kids. This deserves more than a WAHOO. . .

 

April 2006

Julie M. Park's non-fiction book "Leonardo da Vinci, Inventor," is an intermediate reader, published by ProQuest Information and Learning. Big WAHOO for Julie.

Linda Joy Singleton has just sold her midgrade novel, "Into The Mirror," to Blooming Tree Press. Release date 2008. This is about a foster girl who runs away to a mysterious community where she uncovers a huge secret about her past. Can someone earn too many WAHOOS? Linda is really trying!

Jen Funk Weber's book, "Clueless in Alaska: Know More," publisher is Sasquatch Books. Jen's book is a photo-illustrated Alaska natural history
puzzle book chock-full of fun facts and jokes. Tested and approved by 4th
graders in Ohio. And we don't argue with 4th graders - right! Big WAHOO for Jen.

Stephanie Ray Brown's story, "All That Glitters" is included in Chicken Soup for the Preschool Mom's Soul. Published March 21st. A WAHOO plus for
Stephanie.

Mary Cunningham's first book in her Cynthia's Attic series, "The Missing Locket" was published in December by Echelon Press. The second book in this series, "The Magic Medallion" will be released in Dec 2006. Way to go Mary, and a big WAHOO!

Dori Chaconas just found out that her book, "Cork and Fuzz," (Viking) was selected for Chicago Public Library's Best of the Best list for 2005! In reading through the list, you can see that Dori is rubbing elbows with some impressive company! WAHOO indeed, mate! AND. . ."Cork and Fuzz: short and Tall," the second book in the series, received a glowing review from Horn Book. If you'd like, you can read it on her website

Gabriele Goldstone's book "The Kulak's Daughter" will be released by

Blooming Tree Press in 2008. She says that Blooming Tree Press is proving to be a wonderful, approachable and supportive publishing house. WAHOO for Gabriele.

Leda Schubertt's picture book "Ballet of the Elephants," illustrated by Robert Andrew Parker, has just been published by Roaring Brook Press. Great news mate. WAHOO for Leda!!

Jan Fields isn't here for a book. Jan just had her wonderful online magazine, Kid MagazineWriter listed by Writer's Digest as as one of the Top 4 Online Magazines for kids. A huge, well deserved WAHOO for our Jan!!

Mark Peter Hughe's YA novel, "I Am The Wallpaper," was selected as one of the New York Public Library's Best Books for the Teen Age 2006. Cool!
AND. . . YABooksCentral.com interviewed Mark. You can link to it via his Website YAHOO indeed!

Bonnie Everett Hawkes has just illustrated "Old Nene's Book of Hawaiian Nursery Rhymes." Written by By Nalani Scharsch, this is a 53 page full color Hapa-Haole/English version, available in both hardcover and paperback. Publisher is Lulu - you can now review the first 15 pages online at Lulu. Available at Amazon, and soon to be published by WritersExchange. Huge WAHOO to both author and illustrator!!

Donna Shepherd and Kevin Scott Collier have added their writing and illustrating talents to a new poetry anthology compiled by Christine Tricarico. Donna donated a poem called "A New Game" and Kevin illustrated the cover for a story entitled "Itty Bits of Bliss." $2.00 per book is being donated to Love Our Children USA, in honor of National Child Abuse Prevention Month. Click HERE for purchase information.

Susette William's Christian/midgrade book, "Life with Stef" - Publisher Writer's Exchange E-Publishing: Author Page - Book Page . Big WAHOO for Birthday Girl, Susette.

Susanna Reich's first novel, "Penelope Bailey Takes the Stage" (Marshall Cavendish) is now in stores. This first time novelist has already lined up a launch party, with a theater theme, at a local bookstore, and a one hour interview (with live call-ins) on a local cable TV station. WOW! WAHOO indeed!

Margot Finke's 6th book, "Prairie Dog's Play Day and Other Rhymes" is now available - publisher WritersExchange. Her educational series of picture books tells about animals from the US and Australia. Written in rhyme, with fun illustrations by Kathy Iler, this e-Book will delight children of all ages.
A big WAHOO to ME!!

Hear the pages flip over in a Flip Book Reader
** An e-book a day helps your kid learn and play! **

Paul H. Wagner's new YA mystery, "The Houseboat Murders" Publisher
i-Universe, is now available at Amazon and other stores. Check out the great review at LongStoryShort WAHOO to Paul!

David Davis has his book, "Texas Zeke and the Longhorn" available in stores. Published by Pelican. This Texas picture book sounds like a winner. A big WAHOO for David.

Cynthia Lord's midgrade novel "Rules" is now OUT! - published by Scholastic Press. School Library Journal writes: "A lovely, warm read, and a great discussion starter." AND, her book was named The Washington Post's KidPost Book of the Week. WAHOO indeed for Cynthia!

Kevin Scott Collier's newest book, "The Esther Chronicles," published by
Lulu , is now available. It is the collected stories of Esther the painted turtle, which appeared on the Internet from 2004-2006. If Kevin sells any more books he will need a WAHOO page all to himself!! YEA!!

Dori Butler's book, "Tank Talbott's Guide to Girls" - published by Albert Whitman. The two main characters (Tank & Molly) each have a Blog in the book, and Dori has actually set up two blogs for kids to visit and interact with.
Check them out: Tank - Molly Way cool. This is WAHOO material for sure!

Ted Butler's book, "Secret Fleets," is the third in his Belt Republic series - published by Windstorm Creative/Blueworks imprint. The next to come (#4) is in the pipeline. Big WAHOO for Ted!!

Kathryn Lay had a nice surprise regarding her much acclaimed book,
"Crown Me." An assistant editor's phone call let her know that Scholastic has bought the paperback rights to Crown Me! This is for the book club and book fairs! However, they will change the title to "How to Rule the School." Bummer! Kathryn, Can we petition them to keep the original title? WAHOO anyway, mate - changed title and all!!

Ruth Musgrave's National Geographic Kids article, "The Great Koala Rescue" (March 2005), won the SCBWI (2005) Magazine Merit Honor Award for Nonfiction. Check it out @ National Geographic Online. Now that's a nifty honor. WAHOO indeed!

May 2006

Jonathan (Seth) Roppolo, a 6th grader in Hill Country grade school ( and the eldest son of Deb Roppolo), won his 6th grade essay contest. You can read his essay HERE . A good title would be "Fun Last Summer." Congratulations Jonathan. Terrific essay. A big WAHOO for a writer in the making!!

David Davis has three of his picture books due for release by Pelican Press next next September. Understandably, David is jumping for joy. The titles are:
"Rock 'N' Roll Dogs" - "The Texas Mother Goose" & "The Librarian's Night Before Christmas." Some writers just do it in threes - so here's 3 more to celebrate. WAHOO! WAHOO! WAHOO!

Eileen Kennedy-Moore, PhD has won the Dr Toy Smart Play Award for 2006, for her book "What About Me? Twelve Ways to Get Your Parents' Attention Without Hitting Your Sister." Published by Parenting Press. Check it out HERE. Big WAHOO for Eileen.

Sheryl Gwyther's fiction novel, "Secrets of Eromanga" (released in Australia on April 28, 2006), has sold out of its first print run, and Lothian are reprinting the book. They'll have the Teachers' Notes for the book up on their website soon . WAHOO indeed!

Kim Norman has sold her second book, a rhyming picture book titled
"The Crocodaddy," to Sterling. Bring out the champagne! A well deserved WAHOO.

Elizabeth Kann's book, "Pinkalicious," illustrated by her sister and published by HarperCollins, is now in the bookstores. Elizabeth has lots of promotions lined up. Definitely WAHOO time.

June 2006

Barbara Anne Skalak just got word from her editor that Scholastic will be producing an audio version (probably a cassette tape) of her picture book, "Waddle, Waddle, Quack, Quack, Quack," to be packaged with the book club edition, and available through schools. Teachers will be able to buy it separately and it will be unabridged. Huge WAHOO, mate!!

Susanna Reich is thrilled to announce that "José! Born to Dance" (Paula Wiseman/Simon & Schuster 2005) has won the International Latino Book Award in the category of Best Educational Children's Book - English. The award is given by Latino Literacy Now, a nonprofit organization that supports
and promotes literacy and literary excellence within the Latino
community. Visit the organization's website HERE WAHOO indeed!!

Ann Herrick's book, "Walk Softly and Watch Out for Bigfoot," a YA for Hard Shell Word Factory, is now out. The great title alone will sell this one. WAHOO, mate!!

Bev Cooke's new book, "Keeper of the Light," publisher Conciliar Press, is on the shelves. Check it out on the publisher's website here . Bev is the Queen of religious historical research, and she deserves this WAHOO royally!!

Debby Garfinkle just sold a humorous chapter book series to Wizards of the Coast books. The first book in her six-book, "Supernatural Rubber Chicken" series should be out in 2008. Big WAHOO for this.

Bev Cooke has another book contract. This time for a Princess turned Saint. Working title:"Royal Monastic." It is about the life of Princess Ileana of Romania, also known as Mother Alexandra, Orthodox nun. Publisher is
Conciliar Press. Out some time in 2008 - if Bev is lucky. WAHOO indeed!

Tom Perry (a fellow Aussie) has a book out for grade schoolers, titled, "Catty Bimbar and the New Age Pirates." It is published by MacMillan Education Australia, for their Springboard series (illustrated in color by Jenny Cooper). Tom is simply thrilled to hold his first published book. WAHOO to you Tom!!

Kerry Cohen Hoffmann's YA novel "Easy," publisher Simon & Schuster, was on store bookshelves June 1st. Great job Kerry. WAHOO to you!!

Jan Peck's book, "Way Far Away on a Wild Safari," came out in May 2006 - published by Simon & Schuster & Illustrated by Valeria Petrone. This is the third in Jan's WAY OUT series of science books for young children, and written in rhyme. Big WAHOO for Jan!!

Carol Nevius Jones's picture book, "Building With Dad" will be published in Sept. 2006 by Marshall Cavendish. A second picture book of hers, titled "Baseball Hour," is due out in the Spring of 2008. Way to GO Carol!

NOTE: Carol is the *star* of our Rhymers critique group!!

Kevin Scott Collier (illustrator) and Kristen Halter (writer), that dynamic writing and illustrating duo, have another notch on their writing belts. Out today is "Heaven Quest," their inter galactic book featuring Izzy Warp and his pet, and published through their new Tangerine Sky Productions. Besides the print book, Izzy has a "StarBlog" where new online stories will appear. In addition, Writer's Exchange has agreed to publish an e-book (new) titled "Izzy Warp and the Lights of Bulbalon" in the fall of 2006.

** A WAHOO doesn't seem quite enough praise for Kevin and Kristen - fairdincum mates, they're "bustin'" out all over!!

July - 2006

Betsy Haynes is on a roll! "The Dearly Departed," is published by Windstorm Creative. Susannah Colby, age eleven, tries to contain the family's boistrous ghosts, a.k.a. The Dearly Departed, and fend off a pair of ghost-hunting sisters. *"The Santa Diaries," also Windstorm Creative is three books dedicated to showing what a tough time Santa has sometimes pulling off Christmas without a hitch. *Book #1 -"Newfangled Christmas": Santa can't use a computer, so how can he read kids wishes sent by e-mail? And how can he learn to make the electronic toys they are requesting? *Book #2, "North Pole Virus:" Can Santa find an alternative method for delivering toys when the reindeer get sick? *Book #3, "Santa's Stowaway:" What's the jolly elf to do when a boy stows away in his sleigh and breaks toys faster than he can deliver them? *"My Adventure Panning for Gold," again Windstorm Creative. This is an addition to their interactive "My Adventure" series for children 5 to 8 years old.

My fingers are numb from typing all her books. Wow, is Betsy HOTor what. WAHOO indeed!!!

Celise Down's YA book, "Draven Atreides, Teenage FBI: A Royale Pain" (Book One) Publisher: Gemini Mojo Press. Release Date: July 28, 2006. Synopsis: Abandoned by her biological parents as a baby, she spent years in the foster care system. Graduated high school at age thirteen. Now sixteen and an FBI recruit. She will bring you down, and expose you for what you are - and you will never even see her coming. Really COOL Celise. Huge WAHOOS to you.

Shirley Duke's book "No Bows!" published by Peachtree, is nominated for one of Child Magazine's best kids books of 2006. Shirley is thrilled. WAHOO indeed!

Susanna Reich's picture book, "Jose! Born to Dance," illustrated by Raul Colon - (Paula Wiseman/Simon & Schuster publisher, 2005) has won the Tomas Rivera Mexican American Children's Book Award. Ole! The award was established in 1995 by the College of Education at Texas State University-San Marcos to encourage authors, illustrators and publishers of books that authentically reflect the lives of Mexican American children, and young adults in the United States. This deserves a huge WAHOO!

Candie Moonshower's "The Legend of Zoey," hit the bookshelves on July 11! It is published by Delacorte. Candie is over the moon with happiness.
Big WAHOO mate.

Simon Rose has another book in his great series out. "The Emerald Curse," is the fourth novel for young readers. See the cover art, plus a description of The Emerald Curse, by visiting his website . Contact Simon by e mail to obtain personally autographed copies of The Emerald Curse. You can also order books through the on-line order form . Other books in this series are: The Clone Conspiracy 2005, The Sorcerer's Letterbox 2004 and The Alchemist's Portrait 2003. WAHOO indeed!

Linda Fox has her first book out, co-written by Kristine Byrnside, and titled "Why is He Different." Lulu (print & download) publisher. This book deals in a helpful and gently way with autism and ADHD. Buy it HERE .
A WAHOO to you!!

August - 2006

Catherine James has a second flip book, "The Sad Little House," out with Guardian Angel Publishing. In this story, Bobby Cottontail and his friends help a house find a family. Kevin Scott Collier did the marvelous illustrations. A WAHOO to both of you.

Shannon Rigg's first picture book, "Not in Room 204," publisher Albert Whitman & Co, will be out soon. Big WAHOO for Shannon.

Gerry O'Brien's book, "Bubba Begonia, You'll Be Sorry!" Acorn Press PEI, will be out in Sept., 2006. It is a midgrade chapter book. This book had a long gestation period, but it will pop out in September! WAHOO indeed.

Mary Cunningham's book # 2 in her Cynthia's Attic Series, titled " The Magic Medallion," should be out in NOV. 2006. Publisher Echelon Press. This is a companion to the "The Missing Locket," the first book in her series. Double WAHOO, mate!

Dotti Enderle has a contract for a 4th book in her Fortune Tellers Club Series - this one is titled "Hidden," publisher is Pelican. A preteen girl finds a mysterious note from her dead grandfather in an attic, and uncovers more family secrets than she bargained for. Dotti has a magic touch where series books are concerned. WAHOO to you - again!!

Lisa Hark's MG book, "Airball - My Life in Briefs" pub. by Roaring Brook Press. It is one of three finalists for the Thorpe Menn Award. This award is given each year, by the American Association of University Women, to a Kansas City area writer. ALSO: The director of the Kansas Center for the Book at the state library contacted Lisa. "Airball" has been named as one of 15 Kansas Notable Books this year. Double whammy WAHOO!!

Sue Reichard's bio on "Philip Pullman," for Enslow, will be out Sept 1st 2006. Sue says its been a long haul, but everything is finally taking shape. Big WAHOO mate!!

Tabatha Jean D'Agata's picture book, Marvin Monster's Teacher Jitters - Moo Press - Illustrator: Ed Newmann. Her book will be launched with a big party at the SEE Science Center in Manchester, NH, on Aug 9th. Well done, mate, and a Big WAHOO to you!!

Catherine James's picture book, "The Sad Little House," publisher Guardian Angel Publishing. Kevin Scott Collier illustrator. Catherine is thrilled. WAHOO!!

Shannon Rigg's book, "Not in Room 204," publisher Albert Whitman & Co, is on the way to publication. WAHOO Shannon!!

September - 2006

Audrey Rodriguez has a picture book out called "Theodore Da Baer II, A New Beginning" - published by Publish America. It is available online, from her web site, and at many local book stores. Children can leave messages for Theodore on Audrey's website, and he will send them an email. WAHOO to you!!

Shelly Becker , is author of picture book, "Mine! Mine! Mine," illustrated by the fabulous Hideko Takahashi - Sterling Publishers. It's available at online bookstores, and soon in brick and mortar stores.

Deborah Lynn Jacobs YA book "Powers," publisher Roaring Brook Press, is now in online bookstores, with brick-and-morter stores soon to follow. Her second book with this publisher, "Choices," will be released in the fall of 2007. Debbie is a one time member of our OPUS group, so I KNOW this is a terrific story! Double WAHOO for Debbie!!

Max Anderson has done it again! Two of his kid's adventure books include 9/11 themes. Titles are: "Secret of Abbott's Cave" and "Mountain Cabin Mystery." WAHOO indeed!

Marjorie Blain Parker's book, "Your Kind of Mommy" will be published in March of 2007. Publisher, Dutton Children's Books. It's been a long wait - but worthwhile. WAHOO indeed.

Bonnie Everett-Hawkes has written and illustrated "Myrtle and Maude 2 Happy Cows"- Publisher Lulu. Bonnie also illustrated "The Adventures of Ratty Rat - Ratty Rat You're A-Okay." Publisher: North Dallas Digital Design Press. Double WAHOO for Bonnie.

Sherry Rogers has illustrated 3 books: "Counting Little Geckos" - Publisher RGU Group, Summer 2005. "If You Were A Parrot" - Sylvan Dell Publishing, Summer 2006. "Burro's Tortillas" - Sylvan Dell Publishing, Summer 2007. Triple WAHOO, mate!

Jeanne Kraus Her picture book, "Annie's Plan: Taking Charge of Schoolwork and Homework", publisher Magination Press, is now in bookstores. A disorganized little girl is helped by parents, teachers, and her guidance counselor to develop a unique plan for home and school. WAHOO indeed!

Lila Guzman, Ph.D. 2nd and 3rd grade biographies are now available on amazon.com. These biographies are: Cesar Chavez - Roberto Clemente - Frida Kahlo - Diego Rivera - Ellen Ochoa & George Lopez. The publisher is Enslow. The English-language versions are out now. The Spanish-language versions will follow in approximately six months. Look for details and covers on her website later - when Lila has time to catch up. A huge WAHOO for talent and effort!!

Kathryn Lay has just sold a picture book, "Josh's Magic Pumpkin" to Pelican Books. And, on top of that. . . "Crown Me"! is now being sold through Scholastic Book Clubs and Fairs in paperback as, "How to rule the School". It has a wonderful new cover, and was chosen as one of 3 editors picks for the September Scholastic Arrow Newsletter. A well deserved WAHOO twofer!

Susan Taylor Brown's mid grade verse novel, "Hugging the Rock" was released by Tricycle Press on September 1st. Big WAHOO, mate!

Stacia Deutsch and Rhody Cohon's Series, "Blast to the Past," has just won Learning Magazine’s Teachers’ Choice Award! for 2007. They will receive the actual award in January. Check out their series HERE. Super WAHOO mates!

Jo Ellen Bogart has a new Big Tree Gang book out. This one is titled, "Out and About with the Big Tree Gang," publisher Orca Books. Check it out on Amazon. Big WAHOO, mate!

October 2006

Eileen Kennedy-Moore, PhD - Her picture book "What About Me? - Twelve Ways to Get Your Parents' Attention Without Hitting Your Sister," has just won a Pre/K Honors Award from the National Parenting Publications Awards (NAPPA). Big WAHOO!

Lea Wait's historical MG "Finest Kind" - publisher Simon & Schuster -McElderry. It is set in Main, 1838. This is Lea's 8th book, and it's OUT today! WAHOO indeed!

Ann Herrick's YA book, "Walk Softly and Watch Out for Bigfoot," publisher, Hard Shell Word Factory is now on bookshelves everywhere. WAHOO Ann!!

Shari Lyle-Soffe

Shari Lyle-Soffe has just signed a contract for her picture book, "The Misadventures of Rooter and Snuffle" - publisher, Guardian Angel Publishing, Inc. WAHOO to you, Shari!

Nancy Wagner's picture book, "Effie's Image" is on Nebraska's State
Children's Choice Award list for the 2007-2008 school year. Big WAHOO!

Roxyanne Young, in conjunction with Rick Spears and Kelly Milner Halls, wrote "Tales of the Cryptids" - Darby Creek publisher. Great reviews from Kirkus & Atlanta Journal Constitution & nominated for a YALSA Quick Pick for Reluctant Readers honor. WAHOO indeed! Check their website for information on Bigfoot and the rest. ALSO, free Crypt-O-Lantern patterns!
Dang if that doesn't earn them another WAHOO!!!

Dori Chaconas has the 4th in her Cork and Fuzz series accepted by Viking. "Cork & Fuzz - Good Sports," will be released in Spring of 2007. This classic deserves every accolade it gets. Big WAHOO Dori.

November

Alma Fullerton's book, "In the Garage," publisher Red Deer Press, has been released to book stores everywhere! Alma is thrilled. It has been a long wait, but worth the WAHOO!

Andrew Martonyi's long awaited book, "The Little Man In the Map," publisher
Schoolside Press , has been accepted by the PMA Ingram Wholesale Acceptance Program. What a thrill for Andrew. WAHOO indeed.

Lila & Rick Guzman's "Lorenzo and the Turncoat," Arte Publico Press, won the 2006 Arizona Book Award. This YA novel tells the story of the 1779 New Orleans hurricane and the Battle of Baton Rouge a month later. And to almost top that, "Kichi in Jungle Jeopardy" received an honorable mention!! YAHOO indeed.

Brenda Reeves Sturgis's book, "Anastasia's New Angel Wings," illustrated by Kevin Scott Collier, and published by Lulu, is now for sale at LULU. WAHOO!

Dorothy Francis's Five Star Mystery, "Cold-Case Killer," publisher Thorndike Press, is due for release in April 2007. WAHOO! I hear the cover illustration, by Alan M. Clark, is terrific!

Donna Shepherd's PB, "Topsy Turvy Land," publisher Hidden Pictures, illustrated by Kevin Scott Collier, has been included in World Magazine's list of Reader's Favorite Picture Books and Chapter Books for Children. Keeping company with "Charlotte's Web" and "Wind in the Willows," among other classics, is WAY cool, mates. WAHOO in SPADES!!

December

Judy Cox's book, "Crazy Eddie and the Science Project of Doom " publisher Holiday House, is a Blue Crab Honor Book. WAHOO indeed!

Cynthia Leitich Smith, and husband Greg's picture book, "Santa Knows" publisher Dutton, is out this Christmas season, and they are promoting to beat the band! They hired a publicist, and had a professional website set up for their book - take a peek. They are now back from a whirlwind tour of events, interviews, and "sell" that book events! WAHOO to both of them.

Jody Feldman's first MG novel, "The Gollywhopper Games," will be published by Greenwillow early in 2008. Big WAHOO for Jody!

Bonnie Everett Hawkes illustrated "Rodney Raises A Family"for author, Judy Caughron Byers. Publisher, Tangerine Sky Productions/Lulu Enterprises. This cute adventure tells about a lonely little gray squirrel living in a hollow tree. WAHOO to both Bonnie & Judy.

** Below is a double WAHOO whammy for Bev Cook -
FIRST: "Street Kid, Subway Cat," her young adult novel, was accepted by Orca Press: publication in the spring of 2008. Bev is a member of OPUS, and the other members always knew this was a winner, with its neat, out-of-the-box plot, and quirky characters. SECOND: Bev has signed a contract with Conciliar Press for "Royal Monastic" (working title). This is another young adult historical fiction book, this time about Princess Ileana of Romania.
Double WAHOO for BEV!!

Kim Baccellia's YA book, "Earrings of Ixtumea" is now available in
ebook format - publisher: Virtual Tales. There are also neat gifts at Cafe Press that feature the book's cover. WAHOO for Kim!

Elizabeth O. Dulemba has illustrated a new book, " Haley and the Big Blast," written by A.E. Scotland: publisher Amy Elise Press. Check out the publisher's website to see the dolls available with each book. Another WAHOO for Elizabeth!!

 

 

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