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Christmas Hidden Picture Puzzle/Coloring Page


























A special treat! A hidden picture puzzle by Liz Ball. To order books with her hidden picture puzzles or Topsy Turvy Land, click HERE. Enjoy!

*Click on picture to print out full size ready to be colored, or right click on the picture, and then 'save picture as...' and then you can print it out using your photo program.

Merry Christmas!

(The greeting is done by Kit Grady. She illustrated Bradybug. Aren't the characters darling?)

Be There Bedtime Stories

The Topsy Tales are available in a brand new way! Click the link to see how you can read aloud the stories and then send them to a child any where, any time!

For Immediate Release

Contact: Lynda S. Burch, Publisher
(314) 276 8482

Guardian Angel Publishing, Inc. teams with Be There Bedtime Stories’ new technology to bring families together from around the globe.

St. Louis, MO, USA: In a time where families are spread further apart than ever before ‘Be There Bedtime Stories’ is a technology that puts video of a Storyteller onto the page of a children’s book, to be displayed on a computer and read to your children. http://www.betherebedtimestories.com/

“We are very excited with this new adventure,” said GAP President and CEO Lynda Burch. “Our partnership with Be There Bedtime Stories will allow for an unprecedented availability of family sharing reading time with kids and grandkids around the globe. What a wonderful way to “Be There” for your kids whether on assignment out of the country, traveling for work, or just wanting to participate daily in your children’s reading habits; encouraging reading skills that will last a lifetime. It increases literacy awareness and wellness and strengthens family bonds.”

The Sedona International Film Festival, Tuesday night cinema film series displayed the concept, with 5 local leaders, including the Mayor of Sedona. They recorded a bedtime story for presentation that was made to the audience of nearly 500 patrons, right on the big screen of a movie theatre!



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For more information on Guardian Angel Publishing or to schedule an interview with the publisher, email Lynda S. Burch at publisher@guardianangelpublishing.com.

Autumn Trapeze - Poetry by Donna J. Shepherd

Click HERE to read "Autumn Trapeze" in the September edition of Stories for Children Magazine. Kevin Scott Collier did the fanciful illustration.

Want to download the entire magazine? Click HERE!

Coloring Page - Topsy Turvy Chizzy

Where's Chizzy? Dotty sure looks scared, doesn't she?

Chizzy is the monkey featured on the cover of Topsy Turvy Land (Hidden Pictures Publishing) written by Mama Donna and illustrated by Kevin Scott Collier. 

Dotty and Chizzy both make appearances in the other Topsy Tales, too (Chizzy's Topsy Tale, Dotty's Topsy Tale, and Sully's Topsy Tale).  

*Click on the picture, then print! It will print out full size ready to be colored. If that doesn't work with your printer, right click on the picture, and then 'save picture as...' and then you can print it out using your photo program.

A Topsy Turvy Coloring Page

Where's Chizzy? Dotty sure looks scared, doesn't she?

Chizzy is the monkey featured on the cover of Topsy Turvy Land (Hidden Pictures Publishing) written by Mama Donna and illustrated by Kevin Scott Collier. 

Dotty and Chizzy both make appearances in the other Topsy Tales, too (Chizzy's Topsy Tale, Dotty's Topsy Tale, and Sully's Topsy Tale).  

*Click on the picture, then print! It will print out full size ready to be colored. If that doesn't work with your printer, right click on the picture, and then 'save picture as...' and then you can print it out using your photo program.

Latest Review for Sully's Topsy Tale - Star Search in the Jungle!

Sully's Topsy TaleNew Review for Sully's Topsy Tale!

What’s worse than a giraffe with a sore neck? A singing snake with a sore throat! Meet Sully, the sensational star of Donna Shepherd’s new Topsy Tale. You name it, Sully sings it--solos, arias, and even scats. But what happens when the bane of all serious singers, a sore throat, silences Sully’s beautiful music? Lemon tea, honey…Sully’s well-meaning (and familiar) friends, Chizzy and Dotty, offer up home remedies. Sully’s sure the rest cure will work, but wait! The show must go on, so it’s Star Search in the jungle. Who can stand in for Sully? Will he ever sing again?

There’s a nice message on patience tucked away in this story, and also true friendship. Need to brush up on your musical terms? See the glossary on the back cover, along with a recommendation from a licensed and certified speech-language pathologist. Seems Sully can help children say their ‘s’ sounds! If you’re looking for a warm, bright book that kids will love, Sully’s waiting patiently for a new home.

-- Stephanie Reed, author of The Light Across the River

Sully's Topsy Tale - Reviews

Charmed by a Snake!, June 14, 2010

Donna Shepherd has created another delightful character! Sully the snake is full of personality -- and musical talent! Unfortunately, he must give up singing when he develops a sore throat. It's a good thing he had lots of cute animal friends to help him through his difficulties. By the time he's ready to sing again, he's learned a wonderful lesson about friendship.

Children will love this charming character and relate to his rhyming story. The colorful and lively illustrations add to the fun. They even include hidden hearts for kids to search out! - Diana R. Jenkins, children's author

Sore Throat Silences Snake!, June 10, 2010

Sully's Topsy Tale is a wonderful rhyming story about a solo singing snake with laryngitis. Children will be thrilled as Sully's friends all try to help him with his problem. In the end Sully recovers and discovers in the process that it is good to have friends as they make beautiful music together.

Donna J. Shepherd's rhymes are delightful and have a wonderful message about friendship. Kevin Collier's illustrations are colorful and humorous, and will definitely make children giggle. Donna and Kevin are a winning partnership. I received the book free for review, but it doesn't affect my opinion of the book. I don't recommend books that I don't like.

The back cover includes definitions of musical terms used in the book. I always love a book with an educational element. - Shari Lyle-Soffe, children's author

Now Available - Sully's Topsy Tale


Aren't their expressions adorable? It's almost like you can hear them singing. Sully's Topsy Tale is now available every place books are sold from Guardian Angel Publishing.

The final picture book in the Topsy Tales trilogy features a jazz loving, bebopping, singing snake suffering with laryngitis. What’s an independent snake that only sings solos to do? While waiting for his voice to return, Sully learns to appreciate the talents of others and the value of friendship.



Another Topsy Turvy Tale



Not by me though! This one is by John Ewing. Two snails, Rennie and Bodger, race to save their friend J.D. from nasty crow Teak! A delightful tale of frienship overflowing with humor, action, and vibrant illustrations. Illustrated and written by notable Disney Animator, John Ewing, who helped craft classics including Jungle Book, Sleeping Beauty, and Winnie the Pooh.

Click HERE more information.

Dotty's Topsy Tale - Audio!

Would you like to hear me read the book "Dotty's Topsy Tale"? You can! This month in Guardian Angel Kids Magazine, I'm reading the entire book to you.

Click HERE to listen!

Bradybug - Coloring Page from New Book!


*Click on the picture, then print! It will print out full size ready to be colored. If that doesn't work with your printer, right click on the picture, and then 'save picture as...' and then you can print it out using your photo program.

Easter Hidden Picture Puzzle and Coloring Page


A special treat! A hidden picture puzzle and coloring page for Easter by Liz Ball. To order books with her hidden picture puzzles or other books (like Topsy Turvy Land) from Hidden Pictures Publishing, click HERE. Enjoy!

*Click on the picture, then print! It will print out full size ready to be colored. If that doesn't work with your printer, right click on the picture, and then 'save picture as...' and then you can print it out using your photo program.

New Magazine for Children - GAK - Guardian Angel Kids



I have a poem in a new magazine for children - GAK! Or Guardian Angel Kids. My poem is called "Baby Sister" and is based on my real life experience when Mom brought home my younger sis. Hope you like it! While you're there, be sure to listen to the recorded stories and play the games. Lots to do!

Guardian Angel Kids - an Online Interactive eZine for Kids!

Helping Haiti - Poodle and Doodle

I received an email from Jack Foster who illustrated Poode and Doodle. He has found a way to help the people of Haiti where ALL the proceeds will go to charity. He and I are donating a copy of the book signed by both of us along with original sketches done while working on the book. The website is http://heroes4haiti.com/ if you'd like to check it out.

Would you take a moment to look over the auctions? By bidding on our book, you'll even get free shipping, so it's a win-win for all concerned and a small way in which we can help the thousands of people hurting in Haiti.

BID HERE!

Reviews for Donna's Newest Book - Poodle & Doodle



It's almost time for the book to come out, and excitement is building! Reviewers are looking at it. It's a very short picture book, so it takes very little time to read, but I know it takes a while to formulate a well-worded review. Jack Foster did the sweetest illustrations. The reason it's so simple is that it's also being released as an app for iKids Play, so Angel (poodle) and Sadie (Doodle - 'Scruffy' in the book) will not only be book and blog stars, but star on iTunes! Each page has 4 lines of text with a very simple illustration. It also has hidden bones in some of the illustrations.

The publisher has a page for Poodle and Doodle with a sneak peek inside! Click HERE.

What readers are saying...

"This charming children’s story in delightful rhyme will amuse every reader as it shows there IS room for more than one dog." - Nancy Carty Lepri, author of Tiny Angel

"Poodle and Doodle is adorable! Donna Shepherd's books are perfect for kids (and moms!) of all ages!" - Jill Hart, co-author of So You Want to Be a Work-At-Home Mom: A Christian's Guide to Starting a Home-Based Business,CWAHM.com

"Can a poodle with a diva attitude and a Labradoodle without a pedigree really get along? Poodle and Doodle by Donna Shepherd is a perfectly blended tale mixed with just the right touch of humor. The poodle’s discovery that she does not always have to be “top dog” and that being a friend is important, make this book not only a delightful read, but also teaches children valuable life lessons.

This lovely book, adorned with charming illustrations by Jack Foster, is “pawsitively wonderful” and is sure to be enjoyed by both young and old alike." - Dayna Hilton, (Firefighter Dayna) author of Sparkles the Fire Safety Dog (saddle stitched)

"With its delightful language and charming illustrations, Poodle and Doodle is a picture book that can be read and enjoyed again and again. The story of how Angel, the "perfect" poodle, adjusts to the intrusion of Scruffy, the Labradoodle, will make both children and adults laugh. Donna Shepherd's clever rhymes bring Angel's personality to life, and Jack Foster's artwork adds to the humor. Hidden bones in many of the illustrations keep things fun for multiple readings. The story entertains while teaching good lessons about friendship and change. Great for both home and school libraries!" - Diana R. Jenkins, author of Stepping Stones: The Comic Collection (Diana's blog: DJ's Thoughts)

"In this heartwarming story from a dog’s point of view, children learn it may be hard to accept a newcomer who’s different—but opposites can become best friends. A delightful read-aloud for any kid who loves dogs." - Liz Ball, author/illustrator of Friends Hidden Treasures: Hidden Picture Puzzles

"Poodle and Doodle by Donna J Shepherd is an adorable picture book about a tiny poodle who is upset when her humans bring home a gigantic labradoodle named Scruffy. At first the dainty little dog is upset by the new dog's clumsiness and lack of manners, but eventually she realizes living with Scruffy has advantages.

The book is told in rhyme that's comfortable and not artificially forced, unlike some rhyming picture books I've seen. The colorful illustrations by Jack Foster are perfect portrayals of the cute and amusing story. Poodle and Doodle would appeal to most young kids but it would be especially appropriate for those who love dogs and children coping with sibling rivalry." - Janet Ann Collins, author of Secret Service Saint

"When Scruffy- part Poodle, part Labrador Retriever joins the family, he is snubbed by the family’s dog, a full breed Poodle. Everything Scruffy does is “rude and rough” from eating his food, to eating a sandwich off the kitchen counter. But, the pretty little Poodle soon discovers that having Scruffy around can come in handy, AND that he is actually a good friend. Well written rhyme and colorful illustrations show the dichotomy between these two silly dogs and encourage children to never judge a book a by its cover!"Jennifer Reed, children’s author

"Donna Shepherd knows that being different from one another can be oodles of fun! Poodle and Doodle's antics will leave you begging for more, and I love the illustrations, too!" - Stephanie Reed, author of The Light Across the River

Poodle and Doodle will charm most any little guy or girl, with the antics of pets sharing space. Donna’s rocking rhymes tell a believable story with plenty of ‘cute’. The art is especially appealing with simple, bright lines. What a sweet example of how changes in families call for an attitude adjustment. That slightly jealous poodle shows us how she came around to understanding the new Doodle arrival, and accepting what he had to offer! The story is a wonderful character lesson, in doggy disguise.” - April Boyer, author and editor of Seeds in Season Writing Resources

"When prissy meets mangy, a story of friendship and acceptance unfolds. Poodle and Doodle will snuggle their way into your hearts, just like they did with each other. A fun, lyrical story of two very different dogs who share a special friendship. Young children will love Poodle and Doodle."- Cheryl Malandrinos, The Children’s and Teens’ Book Connection

"Poodle and Doodle is a fun, cute story that will delight children of all ages, especially those who love dogs. The artwork, done in the computer in bright, happy colors, complements the book perfectly. It has an important underlying message: nobody's perfect and one must always look at the positive side of people--or dogs! My 12-year old daughter also read it and loved it, and although she’s old now for this type of book, she said: “If I were 5 I would ask you to read it to me every night.” Coming from a child, I think that says a lot." - Mayra CalvaniMayra's Secret Bookcase

"The balance of friendship can be a difficult one to understand. At times one may feel they are overshadowed by a friend and become frustrated. Poodle and Doodle by Donna J. Shepherd explores an unexpected friendship in this delightful rhyming story of two distinctly different dogs.

What comes forth through the eyes of one fancy poodle pup, Angel, is her own insecurities of having another dog around. When Scruffy, a cross between Poodle and Labrador is brought home by their owner, Leah, havoc ensues wherever Scruffy goes. His less than stellar manners appall Angel until the “ah-ha” moment that Scruffy is not so bad and is actually fun to have around.

Shepherd wonderfully brings to life real life issues all humans contend with in finding their place with friends. Most of all, we are all individuals whether canine or human and should appreciate the positives in all we meet. \

Illustrator, Jack Foster brings the canine characters to life with their young owner, Leah, making it an adventure to read over and over again." - Donna M. McDine, Children's Author - http://www.donna-mcdine.blogspot.com/

Valentine's Day Hidden Picture Puzzle


A special treat! A hidden picture puzzle for Valentine's Day by Liz Ball. To order books with her hidden picture puzzles or other books (like Topsy Turvy Land!) from Hidden Pictures Publishing, click HERE. Enjoy!

*Click on the picture, then print! It will print out full size ready to be colored. If that doesn't work with your printer, right click on the picture, and then 'save picture as...' and then you can print it out using your photo program.

Fan Club Drawing for "A Talent for Quiet" by Kim Chatel




The next book I'll be drawing for is "A Talent for Quiet." Illustrated with Kim Chatel's stunning photography, this is more than a story. It is a journey with Reanie as she finds her voice and her artistic talent. The back of the book includes five non-fiction pages about photography: a glossary of terms, tips on taking better pictures and historical tidbits about photography. To be eligible for the drawing, click "Join Donna's Fan Club" at the top of this blog. A print book will ship to Canada or US. and eBook anywhere else.

Available in several different formats. Click HERE to vist the book page on Guardian Angel Publishing.



No More Gunk!


Parents, are you having a difficult time getting your children to brush their teeth?

In No More Gunk short, playful rhymes and Kevin Scott Collier’s humorous illustrations help children learn in a fun way the importance of proper dental hygiene. Tooth Tips in the back of the book encourage children to take care of their teeth.

Available as an eBook or print book. Visit Guardian Angel Publishing for more information.



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