Back to School Coloring Page - Dotty from Dotty's Topsy Tale

Do you think Dotty's friend, Violet, from Topsy Turvy Land looks happy about being in school again? Why do you think her name is Violet?

(You'll know if you've read Dotty'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.

Ava's Tea Party on a Boat!

I LOVE it when I get pics of children reading "Ava's Secret Tea Party." This one has all the elements of a tea party on a boat - pearls, pink shoes, cool shades with bling (of course!) and ruffles. Precious!

Coloring Page for Spring

A coloring page by Kevin Scott Collier, illustrator of the book, Topsy Turvy Land. Chizzy (star of Chizzy's Topsy Tale) peeks out of the flower garden, happy that spring has finally sprung in Topsy Turvy Land! 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.

Christmas Coloring Page - Sully from Sully's Topsy Tale

Illustrator of Topsy Turvy Land (Hidden Pictures Publishing), Kevin Scott Collier, sent this delightful coloring page of Sully, the Singing Snake who is the star of 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.
 

Mother's Day Hidden Picture Puzzle/Coloring Page

A special treat! A hidden picture puzzle and coloring page for Mother'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.

Coloring Page and Hidden Picture Puzzle for Easter

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 written by Mama Donna) 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.

St. Patrick's Day Activity Sheet

A special treat! A hidden picture puzzle for St. Patrick'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.

Would you like to know more about St. Patrick? Click HERE to visit History.com to read all about him.

A Rainbow of Birds by Janet Halfman, Illustrated by Jack Foster

Birds have their legends just like people do, and baby birds love to hear the stories. Papa Cardinal, whose job it is to pass down bird ways to his chicks, tells them the story of how birds gave the world the rainbow.  A Rainbow of Birds (Guardian Angel Publishing) by Janet Halfmann is one of the most colorful books I've seen from Jack Foster. He went all out bringing the colors of the rainbow to life. 

Janet's story is a delight and bonus activities in the back of the book teach about rainbows. Other recent titles by Janet include Eggs 1, 2,3: Who Will the Babies Be?, Home in the Cave, Star of the Sea, A Day in the Life of a Starfish, Good Night, Little Sea Otter, and Seven Miles to Freedom: The Robert Smalls Story. Janet has written thirty-five fiction and nonfiction books for children.

For more information about Janet, visit http://www.janethalfmann.com
More fun with Jack can be found here: http://jacktoon.blogspot.com

Topsy Turvy Downton Abbey

My Writing Processes Blog Tour

Margot Finke tagged me to join the "My Writing Processes Blog Tour." Each week, authors post answers to four Writing Process questions, then tag friends to play along the following week. Read Margot's post, and learn what she's working on here. 

What am I working on?

I just received a sneak peek at the cover of a new book from Guardian Angel Publishing coming soon called "Miss Emma Ant." Emma is the head designer of the ant hills, but some of the other ants are jealous, thinking they can do a better job. Jack Foster is illustrating and with the fun text and his funny illustrations, I think it will make children laugh and help them to see that everyone has gifts and talents unique to them. 

Jack and I have also completed another book soon to be released on Kindle. And of course, I always have a few others simmering on the stove. 

On the grownup writing front, I'm finishing up a novella - something different and challenging, but I love it. 

How does my work differ from others of its genre?

I write across multiple genres. I've written adult fiction, non-fiction, and for children. I've also written workshops, songs, and many magazine articles and reviews. both print and online.

Why do I write what I do?

I write picture books because I'm four years old inside. I love to go back to a simpler time and see the world through a child's eyes.

How does my writing process work? 

I usually see the end of a story, then a path to get there. The beginning is the last to get written. I'm left-handed so maybe that explains why I seem to work in a backward manner! 

WHO'S UP NEXT MONDAY? 

JENNIFER GLADDEN: Jennifer is a children’s author, mother of three, and a teacher who lives and writes in Pennsylvania. She is the author of three children’s books: A Star in the Night, Teresa’s Shadow, and Angel Donor through Guardian Angel Publishing. She also has written several children’s stories, poems and articles, and started her own Catholic e-zine titled My Light Magazine. Blog: http://www.jgladen.blogspot.com/

Hidden Picture - Can You Find the Animal in this Picture?

The dome on top of the bird feeder is supposed to be able to keep out critters. Did it?

Connie Wilson, Author, Visits Topsy Turvy Land

It's December and the start of the December showcase at the National Writing for Children Center. Today my guest is Connie Wilson. Day 2 of Connie's virtual book tour sponsored by the National Writing for Children Center. 

The Writer's Life with Children's Author Constance (Corcoran) Wilson

I am a "streak" writer, and proud of it. It was music to my ears to learn at ITW (International Thriller Writers) conference last July in New York City that Anne Rice (Interview with a Vampire) is a streak writer, as well.

I do like to focus when I'm "in the zone". I cannot have distractions, or I procrastinate. My best (and longest) streak on one of my 4 novels (the first was a science fiction novel from Lachesis) took place when I couldn't leave the condo because of a blizzard---if that tells you anything.

After retirement, I purchased a 2-bedroom, 2 bathroom "Writer's Lair" in Chicago, where I  hole up to write when I really need to meet a deadline. Since 2003, I have written 15 books  and contributed to a couple of anthologies, as well as continuing to "write short."

That means that I still do such fun things for online blogs as cover the 2008 DNC and RNC and the Chicago Film Festivals, for Yahoo and other online clients. (I was named Content Producer of the Year for Yahoo in 2009 and just yesterday I went out to photograph a tugboat that is sinking in the Mississippi River near LeClaire, Iowa, and spilling fuel oil into the water.) Google Connie Wilson and sign up to follow my articles on Yahoo or on my own blog, www.WeeklyWilson.com, where I review film and books and write about interesting things.

It is true to say that I also bought the Chicago condominium because my son and his wife and granddaughters live in Chicago, and I thought my daughter was going to attend college at DePaul (she ended up in Nashville, TN!), but I do force myself to go to Chicago and isolate myself to finish projects that are "on deadline." Otherwise, I live on the border with Iowa in the Illinois Quad Cities (350,000 people).

I have 3 ongoing series (plus some random titles). The Christmas Cats books (www.TheXmasCats.com) are for my granddaughters and the girls are integral to helping me plot new books. They can't write yet at only 4, but, this way, I know that they will learn how to write well, by assisting me.

Another series I write is a novel series for adults and YA readers entitled The Color of Evil, with the second book (Red Is for Rage) named a Pinnacle Thriller winner in spring, 2013 by NABE (National Association of Book Entrepreneurs) and soon to be featured (December, 2013) on Shelf Unbound online magazine as a Page-turner Winner. Khaki = Killer will be out in February.

I was named  Midwest Writing Center Writer of the Year (March 20, 2010) and Illinois Women's Press Association Silver Feather Winner (June 6, 2012) by the Chicago chapter. I've written for 5 newspapers and 11 blogs.

Since 2003, I have averaged 4 books a year. I have an agent, and I've had 6 small publishers, but, with the advent of POD printing and self-publishing, I'm enjoying publishing my own works as Quad Cities' Learning, Inc.,  doing business as Quad Cities' Press (www.quadcitieslearning.com).

You can read more about my adult works at www.ConnieCWilson.com. 


Be sure to learn how to follow the rest of this tour by going to www.writingforchildrencenter.com

Oodles of Fun Thanksgiving

Liz Ball shares a Hidden Picture Puzzle for Thanksgiving. Hidden Pictures Publishing released the first book in Mama Donna's Topsy Tales Series, Topsy Turvy Land. 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.

Coloring Page: Trick or Treat from Poodle and Doodle!

Jack Foster, illustrator of Poodle and Doodle, shares this wonderful coloring page. 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.

Coloring Page of Chizzy for Trick or Treat

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

*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.

I Won a Book! - "The Spy Game" by J.D. Holiday

You know the contests you see on blogs all the time? Be sure to enter when you have time (and of course - if you're a child, ask your parents first!). I won a book by J.D. Holiday called "The Spy Game." It's a lovely story about a little boy who wants a puppy, but instead gets an older dog. As he feeds and walks the dog, he gets to know and appreciate the uniqueness of his new friend - and he gets involved in a mystery, too! I hope you'll check out "The Spy Game."

Review for Ava's Secret Tea Party - Susan J. Berger

From Susan J. Berger:

I read this lovely fairytale to my six year old granddaughter. She loved it. Ava invites The Tooth Fairy, The Sandman, The Easter Bunny and Santa to a tea party. The illustrations by Bella Sinclair are a perfect match for the whimsical text. This is a great read for the younger set. Can't wait til my 17 month old granddaughter is old enough to join in the fun.

Visit Susan on The Pen and Ink Blog: http://thepenandinkblog.blogspot.com/

A Kid's Review of Topsy Turvy Land

For a book report, Darrion chose to write about Topsy Turvy Land. His mother sent me a copy of his report and granted me permission to post it. Isn't this a glowing review? I love it! Thanks, Darrion!!

Children’s Ezine Guardian Angel Kids: Math Concepts – February 2012 Issue

CONTACT: Donna McDine, Editor-in-Chief, Guardian Angel Kids Ezine
Email: submissions@guardian-angel-kids.com.
Website: http://guardian-angel-kids.com/  

Children’s Ezine Guardian Angel Kids: Math Concepts – February 2012 Issue

 

Teaching math concepts beyond traditional number problems opens up creative opportunities for both teachers and students. Different strategies include the use of poetry, stories, engaging articles, and activities that get the body and mind working in unison. 

Come explore the world of "Math Concepts" in the Guardian Angel Kids February 2012 issue and learn how to tell time, add, subtract, and divide, rap to numbers through poetry, learn the history of pennies, how powerful zero truly is, and hands on math activities. Make it a family learning experience and fun will surely be had by one and all.

 

Letter from the EDITOR-IN-CHIEF: Donna M. McDine 

 

Featured Books: 

Learn to Count 1-10 flip book by Eugene Ruble

Sparkie: A Star Afraid of the Dark book video by Susann Batson

 

Children’s poetry, SHORT STORIES, and articles: 

• “Can You Tell Time?” quiz by Marion Tickner – explores the different timepieces before the technology explosion.  
• “How Many Are Half?” poetry by Donna J. Shepherd – Grandma’s delicious chocolate chip cookie treat and how the cookies are shared. 
• “Numbers Rap,” poetry by Bill Kirk – the wonder of numbers all around us. 
• “Cookies with Sprinkles,” by Shari L. Klase and illustrated by Julie Hammond – a whimsical adventure to Grandma’s house. 
• “The Value of Pennies,” by Gina Napoli – discover the history and significance of pennies. 
• “The All Powerful Nothing,” by Mary Reina – learn about the power of zero and how it turns nothing into something.  
• “Hands on Math Activities for Home or School,” by Kathy Stemke – get moving and grooving with enjoyable Math activities. 
• “Hopscotch Math,” by Karen Robuck – teach and reinforce basic Math skills with the fun of hopscotch. 

Visit Guardian Angel Kid today and http://www.guardian-angel-kids.com/ and enjoy a child safe and ad free Ezine.

We also invite you to stay connected with Guardian Angel Kids through our Facebook Fan Page http://www.facebook.com/pages/Guardian-Angel-Kids-Ezine/163785080346247.

Guardian Angel Kids: Siblings – January 2012 Issue

The Guardian Angel Kids January 2012 theme for the month is all about siblings. Come along and reminisce about your childhood through the delightful poetry and stories in this month's issue and don't forget to share your memories with your children.

LETTER FROM THE EDITOR-IN-CHIEF: Donna M. McDine

FEATURED BOOKS:

• My Sister is My Best Friend - a TRILINGUAL Flip Book by Nicole Weaver, illustrated by Clara Batton Smith 
• My Brother, the Frog by Kevin McNamee, illustrated by Alexander Morris  

CHILDREN’S POETRY, SHORT STORIES, AND ARTICLES:

• “My Little Brother” by Katie (age 10) – the antics of a little brother and his big sister’s frustration. 
• “Hailey’s Homework” by Juliana Jones and illustrated by Jack Foster – Young Hailey is too little for homework and makes up her own assignment with unhappy results.
• “Monsters and Brothers” by Judy L. Forney and illustrated by Samantha Bell – The roller coaster ride of brothers and how they tease one another. 
• "Keys to Help Your Child Score Well on Standardized Tests” by Nicole Weaver - Tips to help you prepare your child for standardized tests beyond the studying. 

FEATURED DRAWING, GAMES and ACTIVITIES:

• Draw and paint your brothers and sisters with Painting Board
• Featured Games from Guardian Angel Publishing Books  

Visit Guardian Angel Kids today at http://www.guardian-angel-kids.com/ and enjoy a child-safe and ad free Ezine.

We also invite you to stay connected with Guardian Angel Kids through our Facebook Fan Page https://www.facebook.com/pages/Guardian-Angel-Kids-Ezine#!/pages/Guardian-Angel-Kids-Ezine/163785080346247.

Please feel free to drop Editor-in-Chief, Donna McDine, an email at submissions@guardian-angel-kids.com and let her know what you think of Guardian Angel Kids and what you'd like to see in the future. The Guardian Angel Kids Ezine staff and contributors look forward to your visit.