What Do They Want From Me? A Gift Guide for Kids earns the CLC Seal of Approval

What Do They Want From Me? is a terrific book that has lots to offer readers, both young and old.  Author Kristina Kumar has covered every aspect of gift giving (and receiving).  -Everything from selecting the right gift, to how much to spend, and even when you should not get someone a gift.  She's covered all the bases and she's done it in a way that is interesting and entertaining.  Gift-giving craft projects, gift-giving trivia, and more are all neatly compiled in this book that is chock-full of fun photographs and illustrations.

Wondering if you should ever re-gift a gift?  She has even covered this topic in a straight-forward, common sense sort of way.   No gift giving stone has been left un-turned in this whimsical book that would, in fact, make a great gift.

LITERARY CLASSICS Book Awards & Reviews
International Book Awards • Top Honors Youth Book Awards • Seal of Approval http://www.clcawards.org

Scratch and Mouse, by Kathryn England, earns the CLC Seal of Approval

There are those occasional books that tell a powerful and emotional story to children without sounding preachy or insincere.  Scratch and Old Mouse is one of those joyously rare tales.  When Scratch, a young mouse, finds himself hungry and without a morsel to eat, he sniffs his way to Old Mouse's home where his nose leads him to a fat chunk of cheese.  Hungry and unable to resist the delectable cheese, he hoists it upon his back and returns with it to his home.  But as his conscious catches up to him, Scratch begins to think of Old Mouse and what the consequences of his own actions might mean to the aging mouse.

Author Kathryn England has written a timeless children's story that is sure to become a treasured favorite with children, parents, caregivers and teachers.  Illustrations by Kimberly Soderberg are masterfully created to enhance this delightful children's picture book.

Scratch and Old Mouse comes highly recommended and has earned the Literary Classics Seal of Approval.

LITERARY CLASSICS Book Awards & Reviews
International Book Awards • Top Honors Youth Book Awards • Seal of Approval http://www.clcawards.org

The Santa Spy, by Patrick Bates earns the CLC Seal of Approval

When young Darren questions the validity of Santa Claus, he is met with incredulous stares and audible gasps from his parents.  When he explains to his parents the improbability of a man in a sleigh delivering that many presents around the world in one night, their response is that he shouldn't question it, or Santa might not bring him any more presents.

But Darren concludes that finding answers outweighs the risks.  So being the bright and inquisitive boy that he is, he devises a master plan to get to the bottom of the situation and find out once and for all if Santa really exists.

Author Patrick Bates has written a book that is as funny as it is engaging.  Sharp-witted Darren is a remarkably likable character whose personality practically jumps off the page.  Colorful illustrations, by Kimberly Soderberg are a great addition to this picture book which will most definitely be a hit with young readers.

Bravo for The Santa Spy!  This book comes highly recommended for home and school libraries, classroom settings and for gift giving.  The Santa Spy has earned the Literary Classics Seal of Approval.


LITERARY CLASSICS Book Awards & Reviews
International Book Awards • Top Honors Youth Book Awards • Seal of Approval http://www.clcawards.org

The Raindrop Who Couldn't Fall earns the CLC Seal of Approval

The Raindrop Who Couldn't Fall is the story of Plink, a young raindrop who dreams of falling from the sky to water the flowers, and even someday to become part of a beautiful rainbow. But sadly, no matter how hard she tries, she just can't seem to fall from the clouds.  Finally, she goes to her grandmother who helps her understand that when the time is right, she will be able to achieve her dreams.

Author Kirsti Call has crafted a heartwarming story that will appeal to youngsters who all can relate to wanting to do something that is challenging.  She touches on the frustrations kids feel, along with the joy of finally achieving one's goals.  Illustrations by Lisa M. Griffin are expressive and delightfully charming.

Side notes on the science of rain are a nice addition to this book which also includes a glossary and projects in the back.  This is a book young children will want to read again and again.

LITERARY CLASSICS Book Awards & Reviews
International Book Awards • Top Honors Youth Book Awards • Seal of Approval http://www.clcawards.org

Morton Munson Built a Mansion earns the Literary Classics Seal of Approval.

Morton Munson Built a Mansion is an unexpected children's picture book with random quips and whimsical characters.   Comical and incredibly creative illustrations are the highlight of this book, but when paired with author Jeff Busch's wonderfully unpredictable witticisms, this book makes for a lighthearted read that will entertain youngsters including those with short attention spans.

An excellent book for reluctant readers, Morton Munson Built a Mansion is an early readers' delight.

This book has earned the Literary Classics Seal of Approval.

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Divided Against Yourselves earns the CLC Seal of Approval

16 year old Tal tries to lead a normal high school life, he plays on the school soccer team and is a talented singer.  But life for him is anything but normal.  For starters, the fact that he is a reincarnation of Taliesin, King Arthur's bard, and has a personal army of warriors, makes it difficult for him to maintain a low profile.  Not to mention his magical powers, possession of a magical sword, mind reading and ability to fly, all of which are a part of everyday life for Taliesen.  

He and his warriors are constantly battling evil characters and traveling between worlds.  But in this, the second book in Bill Hiatt's fantasy fiction series, we are introduced to a different side of Taliesen Weaver, a young man who is pushed to the edge of his ability to control a darkness buried deep within him.

Divided Against Yourselves is an enthralling novel filled with romance, adventure, excitement and suspense.  The story will connect with young readers who are sure to get caught up in the world of fantasy fiction as crafted by author Bill Hiatt, a high school English teacher who is clearly in sync with what appeals to his audience.

LITERARY CLASSICS Book Reviews & Awards
http://www.literaryclassicsreviews.com
http://www.clcawards.org

Firelight of Heaven earns the Literary Classics Seal of Approval

Robbie and his brother Dougray are orphaned brothers who are being raised by their grandfather, Faolan.  They live in the land of Bethloria, which has been under the evil dynasty of King Morgran for nearly seventeen years.  Bethloria, a world populated with dwarves, rock trolls, dragons, and soldiers with enchanted cloaks, is a wildly fantastic place where black magic and powerful jewels are commonplace.

When the boys are forced to leave home, they travel to a forbidden mountain to search for seven lost crystals which they will need in order to put an end to King Morgran's tyranny.  There, they are joined in their quest by a charmingly quirky elf girl named Belle.

Author, Lizbeth Klein, has done a terrific job creating a highly engaging story with well-developed characters in an action packed read that is sure to be a hit with young readers.  Fans of Firelight of Heaven will most definitely be on the edge of their seats waiting for the release of the next book in the Firelight Series.

Firelight of Heaven is an exciting adventure for both boys and girls.  This is a delightful fantasy that comes highly recommended and has earned the Literary Classics Seal of Approval.



LITERARY CLASSICS Book Reviews & Awards
http://literaryclassicsreviews.com
www.clcawards.org

Author Spotlight - W. Nikola-Lisa on his award winning book, Dear Frank: Babe Ruth, the Red Sox, and the Great War

HOW LONG HAVE YOU BEEN WRITING? 25 years.

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WHAT INSPIRED YOU TO BEGIN WRITING? I began writing books for young readers as a young father and a second grade teacher.

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WHAT WAS THE INSPIRATION BEHIND YOUR AWARD WINNING TITLE?

I was stuck on a historical piece about Babe Ruth when he was with the Yankees. As I did more research I became fascinated with Ruth's time in Boston pitching for the Red Sox.

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IS THIS YOUR FIRST BOOK? Nope, it's my 24th book.

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Here are a few of my best-selling books:

Bein' With You This Way (Lee & Low, 1994)

Shake Dem Halloween Bones (Houghton Mifflin, 1997)

The Year With Grandma Moses (Henry Holt, 2000)

How We Are Smart (Lee & Low, 2006) 

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DO YOU HAVE ANY NEW BOOKS IN THE WORKS?

My next book takes me back to the New York Yankees. It is a piece of historical nonfiction titled "The Men Who Made the Yankees." It tells the story of the origin of the American League and how the Yankees came to Manhattan. 

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TELL US SOMETHING INTERESTING THAT OUR READERS MAY NOT KNOW ABOUT YOU:

I'm a left-handed, double Gemini, that can't sit still.  

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WHAT DO YOU MOST ENJOY DOING IN YOUR SPARE TIME?

Ride my bicycle. I go out everyday for several miles. It's how I split my day in half: morning for writing; afternoon for guitar studies.

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WHAT'S YOUR FAVORITE TV SHOW/MOVIE?

PBS News Hour (it's the only thing I can stand to watch on TV) 

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WHAT CHALLENGES DO YOU FACE AS AN AUTHOR?

Right now, it's the changing and quite turbulent publishing industry. Quite hard to navigate at the moment.

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DO YOU HAVE ANY ADVICE FOR OTHER ASPIRING AUTHORS?

Read, read, read,...and then write, write, write. There's no magic to it; just a lot of hard work that you can't avoid.  

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CAN YOU OFFER ANY TIPS ON GETTING PUBLISHED?

Have a strategy and follow it. I work the trade and self-publishing angles at the same time. While I'm trying to sell my books to established publishers (20 to date), I'm always working on 1-2 self-publishing projects at the same time. 

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IS THERE ANYTHING ELSE YOU'D LIKE TO SHARE WITH OUR READERS?

Regarding self-publishing, although it's more accessible and more affordable, it is not necessarily easier. In fact, it's more difficult because the author bears more of the responsibility to produce not only an accurate, but a beautifully crafted book. Knowing this, I take great care in producing my self-published works, which is reflected in my website's name:

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Gyroscope Books: Beautiful Books for Curious People

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http://gyroscopebooks.com

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LITERARY CLASSICS Book Reviews & Awards http://literaryclassicsreviews.com

The Red Sheet earns the Literary Classics Seal of Approval

Seventeen year old Bryan is the big man on campus... literally and figuratively.  Standing at 6 foot, 4 inches tall, he's the high school basketball star and part of the elite "super-jock crowd."

When Bryan starts to develop a friendship with a gay boy named Scott he keeps it a secret from all his "jock" buddies.  But then one ill-fated Saturday night he experiences a life-changing event that is so traumatic his memory entirely blanks out what happened.  As Bryan tries to piece together the fragments of what took place that evening he begins seeing things from a fresh perspective, and he doesn't like what he sees.

As Bryan comes to terms with who he is and who he is not, he learns to embrace a new life in which he allows himself and others to be true to themselves.

Author Mia Kerick has written a powerful coming of age, coming-out novel that is well written and deeply profound in its sincerity.

Young Adult Audience - This book contains some graphic content which may not be appropriate for a younger audience, but the overall context is well written and tastefully represented.


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Annie the Scientist earns the CLC Seal of Approval

Annie the Scientist is the delightful story of an inquisitive and precocious young girl who finds wonder in ordinary things others take for granted.  Above all, she loves science and enjoys experimenting.

Annie introduces her friends to the concept of observing everyday things in new ways.  She shows them how magnets attract and repel objects, and explains how birds are like modern dinosaurs.  She even introduces math concepts in a fun and kid-friendly manner.

Annie the Scientist makes science fun and interesting for kids.  New ideas and famous quotes are scattered throughout the book which is a great read for growing minds!  Annie helps kids find the extraordinary in the ordinary... and we can all use a little of that.

This book comes highly recommended for home and school libraries, and for use in classroom settings.

LITERARY CLASSICS Book Reviews & Awards http://literaryclassicsreviews.com

The Charelton Locket earns the Literary Classics Seal of Approval

While working at summer camp Missey, a gregarious young girl, meets shy, sad-eyed Zoe.  The two share adventures and misadventures at camp.  So when the camp session is over Missey is surprised when Zoe refuses to exchange contact information with her.

When school starts at the end of summer, Missey is shocked to find that Zoe will be attending her school.  Still, Missey and her best friend Willow go out of their way to make Zoe feel welcome and try to help bring her out of her shell.  But when a series of strange things start happening to Zoe she finds herself the target of one of the more popular girls' bullying.

When a theft occurs the police get involved and the three girls work together to solve a major mystery. With time they come to realize that no one is who they seem to be.

Author Ann Morgan Taylor has written a suspenseful and engaging novel to which teens and tweens can relate.  The concept of these young girls overcoming problems despite great odds will appeal to young readers who are sure to enjoy this pre-teen mystery.

The Charelton Locket has earned the Literary Classics Seal of Approval.

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The Curse of the Crystal Kuatzin earns the Literary Classics Seal of Approval

When fifteen year old Jason inherits a document that has been sealed for 125 years, he learns that his legacy is none other than a family curse which threatens to wipe out all of humanity.  This ancient document lays out, in no uncertain terms, the history of one of his ancestors who stole a crystal bird from the Amazon.   And now it is up to Jason to set things straight and save the world.  For starters, he needs to search his 17th century family home for a hidden room and a trunk that will set him on the path to restoring the order of the Kuatzin and make things right before the human race becomes extinct.

The Curse of the Crystal Kuatzin is an enthralling work of fiction. The author's voice is expressive and young readers are sure to get swept away as they become engrossed in this fantastic story which will most assuredly resonate with a young adult audience.

The Curse of the Crystal Kuatzin comes highly recommended and has earned the Literary Classics Seal of Approval.


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Someone's Trapped earns the CLC Seal of Approval

Someone's Trapped, by Maureen Grenier, is the engaging sequel of three friends who are reunited in their efforts to solve a mystery and save the day!  When Rebecca is under suspicion of having committed a crime, this trio joins forces to trap the real thief.  Rebecca' s friends, two fellow soccer enthusiasts Chris and Jaylon, vow to help clear Rebecca's good name.

Someone's Trapped is the second part to a series involving the Viking Club agency, three mystery solving kids. This book enforces positive values including teamwork, both on and off the playing field, as they work together to solve the mystery and also resolve a few personal problems that come into play as this entertaining story unfolds.  Author, Maureen Grenier has created an age appropriate book with lots of fun and interesting twists.  The book is written such that one can easily pick up with the second book in the series without any prior knowledge.

Someone's Trapped comes highly recommended and has earned the Literary Classics Seal of Approval.

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The Magician's Doll, by M.L. Roble, earns the Literary Classics Seal of Approval

Having a psychic for a mother is not really something twelve year old Natalie wishes to advertise.  The neighbor ruffians tease her, and close friends are few and far between.  As uncomfortable as Natalie is with her mother’s unconventional behavior, it’s only natural that she would find it vexing when she begins “seeing” things herself.

Natalie’s life takes an interesting turn when Phillip, the shy neighbor boy, starts hanging around.  When they find themselves at a magician’s performance at the circus, Natalie and Phillip get the opportunity to go on stage to assist the magician in his show.  Natalie meets the magician’s doll and is drawn into a powerful world of magic and mystery.  She quickly learns that she has abilities she never imagined were possible.  Natalie resists her special powers, but Phillip wants to put them to use for their benefit and he pushes her to experiment and try new ways to exploit her gifts.

Author, M.L. Roble has created a well written and suspenseful mystery in The Magician’s Doll.  This unique story-line captures the reader, as well-developed characters become embroiled in a battle between good and evil.  Lots of unique plot twists, interspersed with a bit of  humor, help make this book an exciting and engaging read.  Subtle references to life messages that teach positive values to young readers are an added bonus to this book which comes highly recommended.


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Benton Believes earns the CLC Seal of Approval

Benton is an average boy, really no different than most boys his age.  He describes himself as short, boring, untalented and a little crazy.  But when he surmises it's better to appear tough than to have others view him as a wimp, the things that once brought him joy no longer seem to have the same affect.  He finds himself hating everything and begins to wonder what's gone wrong with him.

But all that changes when he enters an enchanted garden and meets a talking chameleon who shares some very special tools with him.  When Benton starts using these magical tools he learns to be grateful and have a positive outlook, as once again he finds happiness in his life.

The book introduces a glossary for words children might find unfamiliar.  Fun facts are scattered throughout the book.  And a magic pen is hidden inside each illustration.

Benton Believes would be an excellent book for home and school libraries and for use in classroom and behavioral management settings. This book has earned the Literary Classics Seal of Approval.

LITERARY CLASSICS Book Reviews & Awards http://literaryclassicsreviews.com

Literary Classics Book Awards, helping authors gain recognition for their Children's & YA Books

Literary Classics Executive Director presents Author Kevin Janison with 

the Literary Classics Gold Award for his children's picture book, 

Deputy Dorkface, How Mannerland Got its Manners Back.

We had the distinct pleasure of meeting author, Kevin Janison, this week at Chicago's Lit Fest where he deputized young and old alike while spreading the word about his award winning children's book series, Deputy Dorkface.  His books were a huge hit with Lit Fest attendees, so it's no surprise to us that another book in his Deputy Dorkface series recently earned the CLC Seal of Approval and is in the running for an award in the 2014 Book Awards.

Literary Classics Book Awards & Reviews, 

promoting excellence in literature for Children and Young Adults.

www.clcawards.org

LITERARY CLASSICS Book Reviews & Awards http://literaryclassicsreviews.com

And you thought writing your book would be the hard part

Ever feel like resorting to this technique to try and sell your books?  Well you've got to appreciate these authors' sense of humor.  But seriously... do you remember when you believed writing your book was going to be your greatest challenge?  We've all lived in the fantasy world of what it might be like to have your book published... it usually includes a leisurely lifestyle where we sit back and wait for our royalty checks to come rolling in.  As authors, we've all had that dream.  But the reality is that even if you write your book and get it published, there's still the never-ending challenge of getting your books into the hands of readers.

It's a proven fact that a book award from a credible organization is one of the greatest endorsements your book can receive.  And award seals open doors to schools, libraries, bookstores, speaking engagements and more.

So you can scrounge up a cardboard box and a sharpie, or you can check out the Literary Classics Book Awards website to take the first step towards earning recognition for your book.  - You choose.  Either way, keep on doing what you love!

The CLC Team


LITERARY CLASSICS Book Reviews & Awards http://literaryclassicsreviews.com

We love promoting our Award Winning Authors!

Literary Classics Book Awards & Reviews took it to the streets of Chicago for the Printers Row Lit Fest where we showcased the works of our award winning authors.  Check out these great pictures from the two day festival that was attended by nearly 150,000 book-lovers.

Literary Classics Book Awards & Reviews... promoting excellence in literature for children and young adults. www.clcawards.org


LITERARY CLASSICS Book Reviews & Awards http://literaryclassicsreviews.com

Dew Angels, by Melanie Schwapp, earns the Literary Classics Seal of Approval

Dew Angels, by Melanie Schwapp, is the deeply moving and powerful story of Nola Chambers, a young Jamaican girl born with black skin into a fair-skinned family.  Because of the color of Nola's skin she is subjected to cruel treatment by those within her family and the village in which she lives.  Even Nola's father physically and verbally abuses the young girl who has been exposed to prejudice and bigotry her entire life.

Author, Melanie Schwapp, cleverly masters the use of imagery in this heartfelt and genuine work of fiction which paints a vivid picture full of the sights, sounds and scents of Jamaica along with the sweet innocence of young Nola on her path of self-discovery.  - Nola's compelling journey is a heart-breaking triumph!

Dew Angels comes highly recommended and has earned the Literary Classics Seal of Approval.


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Unveiling the Wizards' Shroud earns the CLC Seal of Approval

Unveiling the Wizards' Shroud is the tale of Owen, a boy who is the likely heir to his father's throne.  But Owen has no desire to become king and dreads the moment when, on his fifteenth birthday,  King Kendrick will most likely announce that he is to be his father's successor.  But when the king becomes ill, Owen's only hope is to turn to Cedric, the wizard who may have been responsible for his mother's death.

Author, Eric Price has crafted a gripping story, full of imagery, that draws the reader into Owen's quest which takes place in a fanciful world of magic and mystery.

Unveiling the Wizards' Shroud is an enjoyable read that would make a great movie for teens.  This book has earned the Literary Classics Seal of Approval.

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The Heir, by Lynne Stringer, Earns the Literary Classics Seal of Approval

The Heir, by Lynne Stringer, is an intriguing work of fiction that is sure to keep young adult readers thoroughly engaged.  Well developed characters combined with an original and fascinating plot help make this book a real page-turner.  Part science-fiction, part romance, The Heir is the story of Sarah, a high-school student who is deeply infatuated with her best friend's boyfriend, Dan.  When tragedy strikes and her world is turned upside down, Dan is there to help make sense of it all.  Only, now Sarah can't shake the nagging sensation that there's something a bit "off" about Dan.

The Heir is part one in the Verindon series of books by Lynne Stringer.  With an ending that leaves readers craving more, the second book in this series is certain to fly off bookshelves as young adult fans anxiously await the sequel to The Heir.

The Heir comes highly recommended and has earned the Literary Classics Seal of Approval.


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Not a Doctor Logan's Divorce Book earns the Literary Classics Seal of Approval

When 11 year-old Logan's parents first announce they are getting divorced, she is in denial.  She can't bring herself to accept their decision to split up.  And to make matters worse, her mom insists upon posting quotes from Dr. Donna's Divorce book all over their house.  Initially Logan tries everything she can think of to reunite her parents, even a magical spell.  But eventually, as she comes to the realization that her parents are not going to change their minds, she begins to acknowledge the situation for what it is as she learns to move beyond her grief towards acceptance... and even happiness.

Not a Doctor Logan's Divorce Book is well written and will speak on many levels to youngsters about coping with divorce.  Author Sydney Salter has created a book that kids can relate to on this important topic.  Not a Doctor Logan's Divorce Book comes highly recommended and has earned the Literary Classics Seal of Approval.

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