Daydreaming Danny and the Pirate Treasure, by Joseph Ruder, earns the Literary Classics Seal of Approval

Danny is a precocious boy with a wildly vivid imagination.  When he 'discovers' a pirate map, he sets out on an exciting caper to find the hidden treasure.  Living in a typical suburban neighborhood, Danny finds creative ways to pursue the treasure, all the while maintaining a picture of the life of a true pirate in his mind's eye.  Fanciful illustrations help to depict Danny's world as it is, versus how he actually sees it.  This wonderfully clever children's picture book is one that will open up worlds of imagination for young readers who are sure to delight in this whimsical tale.  Recommended for home and school libraries, Daydreaming Danny and the Pirate Treasure, by Joseph Ruder, earns 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 Book of Chaos, by Jessica Renwick, earns the Literary Classics Seal of Approval

Fable Nuthatch is no ordinary girl.  Orphaned at a very young age, she lives with her Aunt Moira and cousin, Timothy.  She has the ability to perform magic, but her aunt forbids her to practice the art.  One day Fable discovers a book which has been tucked away on a shelf for years.  The pages inside are blank, but the book seems to hold some sort of magical powers.   It doesn't take long for Fable and her cousin to learn the book holds some sort of darkness.  But when they try to make things right, Fable is swept away into an alternate world unlike any she has ever known.  And to make matters worse, Timothy has disappeared!

Author Jessica Renwick has crafted a highly engaging tale about the love of family and the true bonds of friendship.  This enchanting tale offers a thrilling adventure for young readers who are sure to be entertained by this first book in the Starfell Series. 

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

Percy the Racehorse Who Didn't Like to Run, by M.J. Evans, Earns the Literary Classics Seal of Approval

Percy is a young colt with a white star on his forehead.  From the day of his birth, his adoring mother began telling him of his purpose, to be a racehorse like his father and grandfather.  But Percy much prefers to watch the butterflies and visit through the fence with the young boy in a wheelchair who brings him sugar cubes.  Percy wants to please his mother but begins to wonder if he might, perhaps, have another purpose in life.

Multi award-winning author M.J. Evans has crafted this charming children's picture book which is sure to become a favorite with readers of all ages.  Lovingly penned, with vibrant illustrations by Gaspar Sabater, Percy The Racehorse Who Didn't Like to Run is highly recommended for home and school libraries 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

Home Front Girl, by Joan Wehlen Morrison, earns the Literary Classics Seal of Approval

Joan was an extraordinarily bright and insightful young girl growing up in Chicago at the advent of the second world war.  She had a profound love of literature, an introspective outlook on relationships with the opposite sex and was an extremely gifted writer.  After Joan's passing in 2010, her adult daughter (award-winning author, Susan Signe Morrison) discovered Joan's diaries and other collections of her writings, which she skillfully compiled into the literary treasure Home Front Girl.  This book offers a wonderfully unique and genuinely honest glimpse into the life of a precocious young girl during the tumultuous time leading up to and during World War II.  A fascinating and entertaining read, Home Front Girl is equal parts wit and grit.  Readers of all ages will delight in the verbal meanderings, assertions, and contemplations of Joan Whelen Morrison as they follow her through her early teens on up to young adulthood.  Recommended for home and school libraries, Home Front Girl 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

Recommended for home and school libraries, Valiant earns the Literary Classics Seal of Approval

Saville, the daughter of a tailor, has no desire to follow in her father’s footsteps.  Unfortunately, though when her dad becomes ill, she must do whatever necessary to care for her ailing protege.  Her only solution is to dress as a boy, so she can gain a commission to be the king’s tailor.  But when Saville unwittingly saves the kingdom from giants the King offers his sister’s hand in marriage to her.  Author Sarah McGuire has crafted a lovely reimagining of the beloved tale, The Brave Little Tailor.  This book is beautifully crafted with a subtle eloquence that won’t soon be forgotten.  A strong female protagonist, evil villains, and delightfully enchanting plots and sub-plots help make this book a real page-turner.  Recommended for home and school libraries, Valiant 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

Guinevere: At the Dawn of Legend earns the Literary Classics Seal of Approval

Author Cheryl Carpinello’s Guinevere: At the Dawn of Legend is book 2 in the continuing Tales and Legends for Reluctant Readers series.  At the commencement of this story Guinevere, at fifteen years of age, remains unmarried as Arthur Pendragon leads legions of men to battle while war rages throughout Britain.  Guinevere and Cedwyn, still clinging to their adventurous youth, have snuck out of the castle only to discover that battle looms closer to home than they could have ever imagined and renegades who had planned to kidnap Guinevere have taken the children at the castle in her stead.  Young readers are instantly swept into this thrilling fantasy adventure series as Cedwyn comes into his own as a young man hopeful to someday become a knight.  Guinevere continues to shine as a strong female protagonist in this highly engaging series which is suitably written for reluctant readers, but equally appealing for readers of all ages.  Recommended for home and school libraries, Guinevere: At the Dawn of Legend 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

Beverly Stowe McClure on her award-winning book

WHAT INSPIRED YOU TO BECOME A WRITER?

My students. When I was teaching 5th grade my students read Newbery Winning and Honor books. Then they did book reports. They had so much fun, sometimes even dressing up as the characters in the books, that I started thinking how nice it would be to write my own book. So I did. Several, in fact.

WAS THERE A TEACHER OR OTHER MENTOR WHO INFLUENCED YOUR WRITING?

I guess my 5th grade students were my mentors, since they were my inspiration. They did not give me advice or encouragement. They had no idea I was learning to write a book. At the time, I was writing articles for children’s magazines based on science and art activities we did in the classroom. They knew about these. I did take two different writing courses. The first was on writing for children’s magazines, which was a great course. The second was writing novels. My instructor was great. Together she helped me learn the basics. I mailed her my different assignments and finished a whole book. It wasn’t published, but I learned a lot.

HOW DID YOU GET THE IDEA FOR YOUR AWARD WINNING BOOK?

A Family for Leona is loosely based on my mother’s life. She was an Orphan Train rider, from New York to Texas. I knew little about her life as a child. Her mother died when my mother was young. Six children were left. Times were different then. They were poor. Their father could not take care of his children, so a couple were adopted there in Brooklyn, a couple were in their teens and got jobs. My mother and the youngest girl were put on the train, along with other orphans and sent to different states. So, I took what I knew of my mother’s life and created the rest from what I knew about her foster family, hoping to show the love that foster parents can give a child, and the child can love them back.

WHAT IS YOUR FAVORITE LINE FROM YOUR AWARD WINNING BOOK?

“We now have three precious daughters.” (Leona’s foster mother says this.) It shows that family is family, whether you’re born into it, adopted, or a foster child. It’s the love that counts.

WHICH OF YOUR CHARACTERS FROM YOUR AWARD WINNING TITLE DO YOU BELIEVE ARE MOST LIKE YOU AND WHY?

I’d like to say Leona, but she’s independent, daring, outspoken, and does what she wants to. That’s not me. The oldest sister, Florence, is more like me. She thinks rationally, doesn’t get excited, and tries to help others.

WHAT MESSAGE DO YOU HOPE READERS WILL GLEAN FROM YOUR AWARD WINNING BOOK?

Love is what makes a family.

HOW DID YOU GET PUBLISHED?

I searched for an agent for a long time, but never found one. So I started sending my work to publishers that sounded good, and surprise, I was published. It took a while, but I now have fifteen books published.

IF A CLOSE FRIEND OR LOVED ONE WANTED TO WRITE A BOOK, WHAT GREATEST PIECE OF ADVICE WOULD YOU GIVE THEM?

Do it. Never give up. And be patient.

CAN YOU OFFER ANY ADVICE FOR WRITERS ON HOW BEST TO PROMOTE THEIR BOOK?

Promotion is hard for me. I hate to sound pushy, but we have to let the world know about our books. I’m on Facebook and Twitter. I have two blogs. I read and review a lot of books for other authors to help promote their work.

WHAT HAS BEEN YOUR GREATEST LITERARY ACCOMPLISHMENT?

Winning the Children’s Literary Awards for four of my books. That is awesome. I’ve also won some other awards: The Next Generation Indie Book Awards, The Eric Hoffer Award. Also, I think it’s great to hear a young reader say he/she really likes my story. That’s what it’s all about.

WHAT ARE YOUR GREATEST LITERARY ASPIRATIONS?

I just want to keep writing and hope someone reads my books. Winning more contests would be nice too.

TELL US SOMETHING PEOPLE MAY NOT KNOW ABOUT YOU THAT THEY MIGHT FIND INTERESTING:

When I was a child, I hated to read. I read only when required to in school, never at home. For book reports, I used the jacket cover, as if the teacher couldn’t tell. In spite of my lack of reading skills, I went to university, graduated with a degree in education and became a teacher. Yeah, who would have thought it? The best step I ever took.

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

Just that I thank all the great authors that have inspired me to do my best and all of the great readers who read what I write. You’re all awesome. Thank you.

WHAT OTHER BOOKS HAVE YOU PUBLISHED?

Under a Purple Moon

Princess Breeze 

I Live in a Doghouse

DO YOU HAVE ANY NEW BOOKS IN THE WORKS?

I’m working on four different ideas now.

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

Loretta Neff, on her Award-Winning Children's Picture Book

WHAT INSPIRED YOU TO BECOME A WRITER?

Over my life, and as part of my professional role in the etiquette and hospitality field, I’ve spent decades writing letters and thank-you notes. That probably qualifies me as a Master Note and Letter Writer, doesn’t it? Kidding aside, I had always envisioned creating a nonprofit to share my expertise with children who most need and are often the most enthusiastic to receive basic life and social skills.

Writing a book was the best way to provide an affordable and lasting benefit for children. Also, books allow us to reach far greater numbers. In our 3-hour character development and manners programs, there’s a great deal of expense and time involved to facilitate a 1/30 teacher to student ratio. Then there are those most vulnerable children whose families lack the means necessary for them to attend a summer camp or similar program. A tangible, long-lasting book resolves these limitations. Providing a dual benefit, my books are designed to inspire children not only to read but also to develop the character strengths that will take them far in life.

The illustrator was another fortuitous decision, as Anirban Mitra’s talent made our finished product a striking combination. Readers rave about the illustrations.

WAS THERE A TEACHER OR OTHER MENTOR WHO INFLUENCED YOUR WRITING?

The late Edmund Milberg, a former superintendent of Miami-Dade Schools and real estate investor, was for many years my friend and mentor. In fact, had it not been for him and others, I might not have become the success I am today. A most memorable example of when he influenced an outcome followed the untimely death of my beloved fiancé. I was devastated. Up until that time, I had never been a person who gets depressed, but this loss was something new to me. Privately, it was an emotional struggle and somehow Mr. Milberg knew I was feeling uncertainty about the future. To provide more context, a favorite past time of his was to clip and send relevant NY Times articles to his mentees but for this occasion, he sent a bookmark with a quote by George Eliot, “It is never too late to be what you might have been.” Seems silly, but at the time, those words truly resonated with me and were exactly what I needed to move forward. I still use that bookmark today. My shelves are filled with books gifted by him, most of them in the area of self-help…try not to judge. Mr. Milberg and his friendship were magnificent gifts to my life. I miss him.

HOW DID YOU GET THE IDEA FOR YOUR AWARD WINNING BOOK?

Taking into account my love for children’s classics and the inherent character lessons in those stories, I began to extract and develop an outline using the characters and emphasizing corresponding core values to each.

WHICH OF YOUR CHARACTERS FROM YOUR AWARD WINNING TITLE DO YOU BELIEVE ARE MOST LIKE YOU AND WHY?

In Sip Tea, I believe I am most like Mad Hatter. Mad Hatter has integrity and “muchness”, a term we refer to in the book as having passion and a very big heart.

In Tame Your Manners, I am definitely the Whino Rhino pouting in the corner. With a goal-oriented type-A personality, patience is something I struggle with and make a concentrated effort to manage well. I cannot tell a lie, I’ve been a Whino Rhino on occasion. Of this, I am least proud.

WHAT MESSAGE DO YOU HOPE READERS WILL GLEAN FROM YOUR AWARD WINNING BOOK?

That the content—character development, emotional intelligence, etiquette, manners, social skills, socio-emotional learning—is not the fluff stuff, rather the critical foundation and skills that will greatly enhance a formal education. It’s unfortunate that many parents and teachers think test scores are most important when research shows that character strengths and social skills are as important if not more so, in early stage development and in helping children succeed in life. When social skills are combined with academic ones, children are equipped with a powerful combination.

TELL US SOMETHING ABOUT YOUR EXPERIENCE AS A WRITER:

I consider myself to be very self-aware. As such, I realize my writing mechanics and style leave a lot to be desired, and therefore, I try to emphasize my strengths whenever possible. Emerson’s quote, “Tis the reader that makes a good book,” sums me up pretty well. What I lack in technical writing skills, I hope to make up for in creativity and dramatic story-time performance.

I’m fortunate to be an expressive reader, singer, though not extremely well, and a skillful ballroom dancer. Putting all three aptitudes to work, our story times are fun and engaging with interactive lessons, sing-alongs, dances, and quizzes. One of my favorite testimonials by a teacher is, “Ms. Neff was by far the best motivational kids author we have experienced. The journey took the students through the different animals of KAMP Safari to be the best they can be using the pillars of character. She was insightful, meaningful, and comedic at the same time.” - Mrs. Henderson Grade 5 Teacher

IF YOU COULD BE COMPARED TO A WELL-KNOWN AUTHOR WHO WOULD YOU MOST WANT THIS TO BE AND WHY?

This is an easy one…Roald Dahl, the greatest children’s author of all time. Dahl’s characters and storyline in “Charlie and the Chocolate Factory” perfectly align with our Foundation’s core values and vision.

Dahl’s storytelling is not only pure imagination but also pure genius! Masterful at intertwining adult humor while drawing out the bad traits of spoiled children who won golden tickets, Dahl has brought delight to millions of readers. I mean, who could come up with concepts of an Everlasting Gobstopper offering a three-course meal and orange Oompa-Loompas working at an irresistible chocolate-fantasy factory? The best part is the plot—that Mr. Wonka’s motive behind the contest remains a secret throughout the tour, all the while repeatedly testing children (and parents) on their strengths of character. Extraordinarily magical!

WHO HAS HAD THE GREATEST IMPACT ON YOUR LIFE? My father has had the greatest impact on my life. I was sixteen and a daddy’s girl when my father died at the young age of 49. I admired him and hold special memories from my childhood and the many things we enjoyed together. If you believe in Freudian psychology, then it’s not surprising that even in my father’s absence, some of his habits have become my habits, good and bad. The good: a love for books, knowledge and constant learning, watersports and even golf. The bad: easily irritated by noise, overly responsible with a touch of perfectionism. I think he would be pleased that I became self-reliant, strong and a life-long learner in his absence.

HOW DID YOU GET PUBLISHED?

Following a life-threatening diagnosis of stage IV breast cancer and a prognosis of a year to live at best, I didn’t have a year-plus to query an agent and bring a book to market. So I decided to develop our own publishing arm, hire expertise for developmental editing, and execute my first book. This was a very good decision with no regrets, and ultimately provided greater financial benefit to charity partners.

IF A CLOSE FRIEND OR LOVED ONE WANTED TO WRITE A BOOK, WHAT GREATEST PIECE OF ADVICE WOULD YOU GIVE THEM? I tend not to offer advice in areas where I’m unqualified. I can say however, that I did a lot of research and had a good sense of what was needed at the outset; I continue to learn from the publishing process. I also realize that what has worked well for me, may not work for others, or for that matter, for me in the future. Each author has different audiences, goals, and hopefully, platforms, and must constantly reevaluate as the publishing landscape is ever-changing. Thanks to review boards such as Literary Classics, a well-done self-published product can gain credibility and traction from winning coveted literary awards. Thank you!

WHAT HAS BEEN YOUR GREATEST LITERARY ACCOMPLISHMENT?

Creating a successful educational nonprofit has been my greatest achievement and privilege. Since 2014, we’ve been able to provide author visits and a signed book for each child to twenty-six (26) academies and schools and seventeen (17) charities totaling 12,778 children. Our outreach and underwriting program underscores character education and literacy and brings our award-winning books to children in low-income communities and Title I schools. Of this, I am most proud.

WHAT ARE YOUR GREATEST LITERARY ASPIRATIONS?

I have two aspirations. The first, to have one of our books from the series, preferably Tame Your Manners, recognized by Oprah Book Club. Oprah not only promotes an “attitude of gratitude,” which aligns with our platform, but also demonstrates her belief in the way she lives her life. I often fantasize about being invited to the school she established in Africa, taking children on a Safari through my story, and gifting them books. To me, that would be a dream come true!

The second aspiration would be to have a successful book series that remains relevant and continues to inspire and enrich the lives of children and their families.

TELL US SOMETHING PEOPLE MAY NOT KNOW ABOUT YOU THAT THEY MIGHT FIND INTERESTING:

I’m a philatelist (stamp collector/enthusiast) and love to adorn notes and letters with a stamp that is meaningful to the recipient.

DO YOU HAVE ANY NEW BOOKS IN THE WORKS?

Yes, two are underway:

Win a Golden Ticket at KAMP {Kids Arts & Manners Program - possibly for younger age group 4-6}

Desi and Lucy Go to KAMP {Kids Animals & Manners Program - Desi and Lucy are dogs doing good deeds}

These two books are anticipated to be released next year. Our books are available online and in most bookstores.

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

Author M.J. Evans on her award winning book, The Stone of Mercy – Book 1 of the Centaur Chronicles

WHAT INSPIRED YOU TO BECOME A WRITER? When people ask me when I started loving horses, I respond that I was born with Manure in my blood. Well…I was also born with ink in my blood! I have always loved to write but I didn’t have time to actually become a published author until my fifth child entered high school.

WAS THERE A TEACHER OR OTHER MENTOR WHO INFLUENCED YOUR WRITING - PLEASE ELABORATE: Other authors are my inspiration! I grew up devouring all the Marguerite Henry horse stories. I also love all the C.S. Lewis books and, of course, J.K. Rowling.

HOW DID YOU GET THE IDEA FOR YOUR AWARD WINNING BOOK? My ideas for stories always come when I am least expecting them. I never sit down and say: “I need to come up with a new story idea!” The idea for “The Centaur Chronicles,” of which “The Stone of Mercy” is the first book, came to me while I was reading the Bible. I read Ephesians 6:14: “Stand therefore, having your loins girt about with truth, and having on the breastplate of righteousness.” My brain became overwhelmed with the whole story!

WHAT IS YOUR FAVORITE LINE FROM YOUR AWARD WINNING BOOK AND WHY? As an author, I think of myself as an artist with words. Therefore, my favorite line would be any line where I get to beautifully describe a setting or emotions in a way that the reader can understand. Here is one example: “Lit by the silver moon, the rolling hills looked like ocean waves, and the gentle breeze rustling the grasses sounded like whispered secrets.” And one other example: “The shimmering signs of spring did nothing to quell the storm clouds of emotion that were building inside Carling.”

WHICH OF YOUR CHARACTERS FROM YOUR AWARD WINNING TITLE DO YOU BELIEVE ARE MOST LIKE YOU AND WHY? I don’t want to claim that I am the star, but, in this case, I really am! I am the most like Carling. I doubt myself but am willing to do what needs to be done. I’m also very obedient by nature and always strive to do my best. Carling’s response to the Wizard when he tells her that she is to become the queen is what I would say: “I’m sorry to question you, sir, but how is this to be as I am still but a child? I know not the ways of the world. I have barely left the confines of my own little village. And now I am alone in the world with no one to guide me.”

WHAT MESSAGE DO YOU HOPE READERS WILL GLEAN FROM YOUR AWARD WINNING BOOK? As they read the series and gather all four of the Stones of Light, I hope they will see the value in developing the four virtues of Mercy, Courage (to do what is right), Integrity and Wisdom.

IF YOU COULD BE COMPARED TO A WELL-KNOWN AUTHOR WHO WOULD YOU MOST WANT THIS TO BE AND WHY? One critic called me “This generation’s C.S. Lewis.” I couldn’t have been more honored. He teaches valuable, spiritual lessons through his fantasies. I hope I can become as good as he was.

WHAT BOOK HAS HAD THE GREATEST IMPACT ON YOUR LIFE? Obviously, the Bible and The Book of Mormon are the greatest books ever written and the greatest person is Jesus Christ. They are my source of peace and strength in an otherwise confusing and challenging world.

HOW DID YOU FIND AN AGENT / GET PUBLISHED? I have never used an agent but I published “The Mist Trilogy-Behind the Mist, Mists of Darkness, and The Rising Mist,” and “North Mystic” through publishers. I did it the traditional way: submit query letters and whatever else they ask for and wait, wait, wait. It is very exciting to be selected for publication by a publisher. I learned so much from them. However, I have since started my own company to publish my books. I hired graphic artists and editors. Creating a book from start to finish is an even more exciting process.

IF A CLOSE FRIEND OR LOVED ONE WANTED TO WRITE A BOOK, WHAT GREATEST PIECE OF ADVICE WOULD YOU GIVE THEM? Writing takes about 10% talent and 90% perseverance. You have to spend hours and hours not only writing but studying the craft of writing.

CAN YOU OFFER ANY ADVICE FOR WRITERS ON HOW BEST TO PROMOTE THEIR BOOK? You need to figure out who your audience is and where to find them. My audience is 9 to 14 year-olds, especially those who love horses. So, I go to the Rocky Mountain Horse Expo and the Little Britches National Rodeo and other places where young readers and riders are to be found. I also do a lot of school presentations.

WHAT HAS BEEN YOUR GREATEST LITERARY ACCOMPLISHMENT? My greatest accomplishment is the critical acclaim I have received from award programs such as Literary Classics. Of course, my friends and family love my books because they love me. But when professional critics love your work, you know you are on the right track!

WHAT ARE YOUR GREATEST LITERARY ASPIRATIONS? At the moment, I’m focusing on finishing all four books of “The Centaur Chronicles.” After that, I have another book in my head that I want to finish…but that one may take me until I die!

TELL US SOMETHING PEOPLE MAY NOT KNOW ABOUT YOU THAT THEY MIGHT FIND INTERESTING: I was a cheerleader for two years at Oregon State University!

IS THERE ANYTHING ELSE YOU'D LIKE TO SHARE WITH OUR READERS? If you want to be a better writer, read more!

WHAT OTHER BOOKS HAVE YOU PUBLISHED? “In the Heart of a Mustang,” (2016 Literary Classics Gold Medal winner.) “North Mystic,” “The Mist Trilogy: Behind the Mist, Mists of Darkness, The Rising Mist,” New: “The Stone of Courage-Book 2 of the Centaur Chronicles.”
All of my books have received national awards and may be purchased (and autographed) through my website: www.dancinghorsepress.com. They are also available on Amazon, Barnes and Noble or independent bookstores.

DO YOU HAVE ANY NEW BOOKS IN THE WORKS? I am currently revising “The Stone of Integrity-Book 3 of the Centaur Chronicles.” I hope to have it out in early 2018. It is possible that pre-release copies will be available before Christmas. I am very excited about Carling’s third quest. She travels to a hidden island populated by fairies who always wear masks! The Heilodius Herd of Centaurs are becoming more aggressive in their efforts to stop her from completing the Silver Breastplate.

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

Once You Know This, by Emily Blejwas, earns the Literary Classics Seal of Approval

Life doesn't hold much hope for Brittany, a disillusioned eleven-year-old who's seen her share of hardship. Her mother, who is stuck in an abusive relationship, can barely manage to feed Brittany and her baby brother. Even though Brittany's teacher, Mr. Mcinnis, encourages all his students to envision a bright future for themselves, Brittany knows better. She's pretty sure she and her classmates are all destined to continue on the same path of disappointment they've always known. But when she begins to focus on a plan, her goals propel her toward seeking a better life. And Brittany soon finds an inner strength she never knew she had.

Author Emily Blejwas' debut novel, Once You Know This, is an inspiring book for young readers with a powerful tale of courage, and determination. Insightfully penned, Blejwas offers a message of hope that is sure to resonate with young audiences. Recommended for home and school libraries, Once You Know This, 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

Author Spotlight, Gary Schwartz on his award winning book, The King of Average

WHAT INSPIRED YOU TO BECOME A WRITER? The easy answer is reading great books. It’s the same impulse that drew me to acting. I saw a fantastic performance and said “I want to do that…”

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WAS THERE A TEACHER OR OTHER MENTOR WHO INFLUENCED YOUR WRITING?

 My 12th grade English teacher, Stephen Tessler, introduced me to James Joyce’s Portrait of the Artist as a Young Man. I wrote an essay in Joyce’s style of stream of consciousness and he laughed at my audacity, but gave me an “A” after reading it. I also worked with Canadian children’s author Susan Hughes who mentored me with my first manuscript and helped me hone my style.

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HOW DID YOU GET THE IDEA FOR YOUR AWARD-WINNING BOOK? 

True story. I came from a violent and chaotic family burdened with mental illness. My mother often wished I was never born and called me worthless. I suffered poor self-esteem. When I was eleven, I rebelled against that idea and had a conversation with myself on the way to school one day. “I’m not so bad.” I told myself. “Okay, I’m not very good, that’s true… but I’m not as bad as my mom thinks. ‘Right!’ I said. “I’m average!” That made me feel better. Then I thought, ‘what if could be more average than anyone else in the world? - Then I’d be SPECIAL!’ That paradox made me laugh. I was reading The Phantom Tollbooth at the time and thought of my story in those terms and came up with characters like Mayor Culpa, the scapegoat and Kiljoy, the professional pessimist. It would be 52 years later before I actually wrote it out.

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WHAT IS YOUR FAVORITE LINE FROM YOUR AWARD-WINNING BOOK AND WHY? Spoken by Monsieur Roget, the professional optimist. “…when he sees a glass of water filled halfway, a traditional optimist sees it as only ’alf full. But a professional optimist is also happy to see fresh, clear water to drink or wash with or to water plants and make things grow. Like food for instance! ’Alf-full or ’alf-empty? For amateurs!”

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WHICH OF YOUR CHARACTERS FROM YOUR AWARD-WINNING TITLE DO YOU BELIEVE ARE MOST LIKE YOU AND WHY? I am the hero, James. His journey was my journey to be sure. The thought of being the MOST average propels him into the fantasy world called The Realm of Possibilities. There he explores the emotional landscape of Average, Above Average, Lake Inferior, Hearsay, Epiphany and Serenity, to name a few of the places he visits.

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WHAT MESSAGE DO YOU HOPE READERS WILL GLEAN FROM YOUR AWARD-WINNING BOOK? I truly hope that kids who feel ‘less than’ get the message that imagination and perseverance and empathy for others are the key to escaping a poor self-image. There is salvation in helping others. In doing so, you save yourself.

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TELL US SOMETHINGINTERESTING ABOUT YOUR EXPERIENCE AS A WRITER: 

I was disappointed in the stage version of Norton Juster’s The Phantom Tollbooth and wanted to write a new version for the stage. I contacted his representatives to ask permission to adapt his book for the stage. One morning, I got a call from NORTON JUSTER! We spoke for a long time but the upshot was his agent advised against a second stage version. It was like Lewis Carrol calling you up to say ‘hi!’

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IF YOU COULD BE COMPARED TO A WELL-KNOWN AUTHOR WHO WOULD YOU MOST WANT THIS TO BE AND WHY? If you thought I’d say Norton Juster, you’d be wrong. I’d like to be compared to Roald Dahl. I want to be that prolific, imaginative and enduring. A big goal.

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WHAT BOOK HAS HAD THE GREATEST IMPACT ON YOUR LIFE? 

The Phantom Tollbooth, the thought of being the most exceptionally average person saved me from a very different life, I think.

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HOW DID YOU GET PUBLISHED? 

Once I finished the manuscript I sent to over sixty agents and publishers. I got picked up by Booktrope (Seattle), now defunct. I am currently seeking representation.

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IF A CLOSE FRIEND OR LOVED ONE WANTED TO WRITE A BOOK, WHAT GREATEST PIECE OF ADVICE WOULD YOU GIVE THEM? 

Stop talking about it and just do it! I waited over fifty years.

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CAN YOU OFFER ANY ADVICE FOR WRITERS ON HOW BEST TO PROMOTE THEIR BOOK? Send it to everyone you can think of. Get reviewed and don’t give up. Keep talking about your book and have some ready to give away. Read how others promote, but don’t let others do the work for you. You are your best promoter.

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WHAT HAS BEEN YOUR GREATEST LITERARY ACCOMPLISHMENT? 

This debut novel has gotten such a great reaction by being chosen as a Best of 2016 by Kirkus and IndieReader and the two gold medals from Children’s Literary Classics gives me hope, I have a future as a writer.

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WHAT ARE YOUR GREATEST LITERARY ASPIRATIONS? I want my book to enter the pantheon of Children’s classics alongside of The Wizard of Oz, The Phantom Tollbooth, Narnia and Alice in Wonderland. I would love my book to be a positive influence on children and adults who need this message for generations.

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TELL US SOMETHING PEOPLE MAY NOT KNOW ABOUT YOU THAT THEY MIGHT FIND INTERESTING: I am the voice of Heavy Weapon’s Guy and the Demoman from the hit video game Team Fortress 2. I was also a children’s television actor in the 1980s as Bravo Fox on Zoobilee Zoo.

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

In the words of Joseph Campbell, “Follow your bliss.”

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DO YOU HAVE ANY NEW BOOKS IN THE WORKS? I am working on a

Carl Hiaasen-like adventure story for kids called The Benji Loper Caper about a boy who hires a limo to take his school crush on a date in Hollywood. He gets mixed up with a movie producer, a limo driver who is an aspiring actor and screenwriter and an international jewel theft ring on the date. It’s “Get Shorty for kids.” I am also working on the sequel to The King of Average.

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I hope to attract an agent and publisher for my next book, based on the reception of my first one. I want to have it ready for publication by 2018.

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

Crime Cats, The Dusenbury Curse, by Wolfgang Parker, earns the Literary Classics Seal of Approval

Crime Cats is an entirely entertaining chapter book series about a boy detective and his two cat friends, CatBob and Neil Higgins, with which he communicates whilst wearing an old chicken suit.  In Crime Cats, The Dusenbury Curse, the second book in the series, Jonas Shurmann’s good friend, Orville, is being watched.  There’s something spooky lurking outside his mansion and whatever it is has CatBob scared.  He won’t leave his post at the window and he keeps spraying inside the house.  With an abandoned old amusement park and a hundred-year-old curse there’s lots to keep kids mildly spooked as this suspenseful story unfolds.  Recommended for home and school libraries, Crime Cats, The Dusenbury Curse 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 Hidden City of Chelldrah-ham, by Stephan von Clinkerhoffen, has earned the Literary Classics Seal of Approval.

In a land of great riches, with inhabitants who live to be centuries old, lives a boy, Stig.  Stig is quite good at inventing tools and gadgets with the use of clockwork mechanisms.  One fateful day though, his inventive tinkering leads him to a life-altering discovery.  While taking a test-run in his new flying machine, he experiences a crash-landing.  His accident, however, may prove to be a blessing in disguise as he soon learns his beloved city of Chelldrah-ham is in danger.  But returning home to forewarn the people of Chelldrah-ham proves to be a challenge far greater than he could ever have imagined.  Stig becomes embroiled in a sequence of riveting events all of which make for an engaging series of fantasy fiction for young readers.

Each of the three books in this magical collection are full of wonder and imagination with delightfully multi-faceted characters and a plot which keeps readers enthralled throughout this dynamic series.  With a background in engineering and art, author Stephan von Clinkerhoffen lends a unique perspective to this enchanting series which he both wrote and illustrated.  Imaginations will soar from one captivating page to the next as readers indulge in this fanciful set of books.  The Hidden City of Chelldrah-ham fantasy fiction series is highly recommended for home and school libraries 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

Author Spotlight, Robin Gregory, on her award winning title, The Improbable Wonders of Moojie Littleman

WHEN DID YOU FIRST KNOW YOU WANTED TO BE A WRITER AND WHY?

I started journaling as a teenager, and writing poetry, then short stories. It was not with

the dream of being a writer; it was the only way I seemed to be able to process events,

circumstances, relationships. The sixties brought new chaos with them, women’s lib,

drugs, sexual liberation, racial divides, the war, power shifting to the individual. It was all

quite bewildering for me. Writing is a way to witness myself, to observe, to know that I

exist. It helps me find myself in the seams of the inner and outer world.

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AS A CHILD, WHAT DID YOU ASPIRE TO BE WHEN YOU GREW UP?

I always wanted to be an trapeze artist.

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HOW DID YOU GET THE IDEA FOR YOUR AWARD WINNING TITLE?

My son. His special needs have been extremely difficult, and yet he continues to be

charming, courageous, and enthusiastic about life. When family and strangers distance

themselves from him, he continues to offer them kindness. When other children exclude

him from play, he smiles at them. Moojie’s journey is a composite of both my son’s and

my own awakening. We both have been growing, either through the pain of our own

willfulness, or through surrender to the greater mysteries of life. If I learned nothing else,

it would be this one thing: the Creator, the Source, God, is infinitely patient, and will

grant us all the time we need to awaken.

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WHAT IS YOUR FAVORITE LINE FROM YOUR AWARD WINNING BOOK AND WHY?

"If life were all sunshine and chocolate, there wouldn’t be any saints and

we’d never find our way back to heaven."

Moojie’s mother says this when he is having a particularly tough time. It represents the

foundation of the story. While our lives at times might seem impossible, challenges

serve a crucial purpose: they are exactly what cause us to develop our inner

resources, to master our gifts, and realize deep, lasting fulfillment.

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WHICH OF YOUR CHARACTERS FROM YOUR AWARD WINNING TITLE DO

YOU BELIEVE ARE MOST LIKE YOU AND WHY?

I suppose all the characters are drawn from parts of myself, but the one most like me is

Moojie’s mother. Though she is not quite awakened in the story, she is determined,

fierce, and believes in the power of love. She sees potential in her son where others do

not. She believes Moojie has an auspicious destiny. But I am also like Moojie in my

struggle to surrender with willfulness, impulsiveness, and self-sabotaging habits. Ha! To

one degree or another, I suppose I will always be working on these.

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WHAT MESSAGE DO YOU HOPE READERS WILL GLEAN FROM YOUR

AWARD WINNING BOOK?

I would like to remind readers that each of us, no matter what our present state or

condition, is wired for miracles. Miracles occur when we merge with Grace. My greatest

hope is for readers to become engaged on a soul level while reading. It is a privilege to 

give folks a story that will invite them to take a closer look at themselves, to question

whether or not they have accepted false limitations. We all have challenges. But often it

is our own judgment of them that keeps us stuck. Miracles are a matter of opening

ourselves to the healing/guiding forces of the universe. There truly are no mistakes.

We’ve always done the best we can, and everything along the way has helped us

realize our power. No matter how we appear today—be it sick, well, able-bodied or

disabled, alone or with family—we shape our own possibilities.

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TELL US SOMETHING ABOUT YOUR EXPERIENCE AS A WRITER:

While working as a journalist, I wrote my first novel, a terrible thing, that I’m glad to say

never got published.

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WHICH AUTHOR HAS MOST GREATLY INFLUENCED YOUR WRITING STYLE?

Oh boy, I’m not sure I can name one. I love the classics, Homer’s Odyssey, Cervantes’

Don Quixote, and The Thousand and One Nights. Other books of great influence were

One Hundred Years of Solitude, by Gabriel García Márquez, Kafka’s The

Metamorphosis, and Kipling’s Just So Stories.

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WHAT BOOK HAS HAD THE GREATEST IMPACT ON YOUR LIFE?

One Hundred Years of Solitude. It is a mind-altering book that expanded my awareness

of what is possible, not only in literature, but in life.

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WHAT HAS BEEN YOUR GREATEST LITERARY ACCOMPLISHMENT?

If you mean what do I feel has been my greatest contribution to literature, I would surely

say The Improbable Wonders of Moojie Littleman. My hope was to write a story that

gave transcendence a pedestrian quality, that included miracles as natural

phenomenon.

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DO YOU HAVE ANY WRITING RITUALS?

Writing for me does not require discipline, doing anything else does. I’d rather write than

eat. When I’m writing, I’m like the kid in the sandbox, building roads and moats and

castles, as if nothing else existed. Throughout the day, I’m always taking mental and

written notes because Life is always presenting ideas for interpretation. I prefer to write

the first draft by hand. When I am lacking inspiration, I clear my mind with meditation, or

read poetry and the classics. And oh yea, a fresh, steeping cup of English tea with milk

always helps. Writing can complicate family life. Once, I had to work 26 hours straight to

meet a deadline. Fortunately, my husband was able to take over. He’s a good cook.

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HOW DID YOU GET PUBLISHED?

After failing to secure an agent or a publishing contract that met my standards, I

discovered Wyatt-MacKenzie Publishing, Co., Inc. They are a traditional publisher that

for 20 years has offered a mentoring program for self-published authors. A wonderful

foreign rights agent approached me after seeing my book in a contest. She’s repping it

at international trade shows. We just closed a translation deal with a Chinese publisher.

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WHAT DID YOU DO TO CELEBRATE THE COMPLETION OF YOUR AWARD WINNING BOOK?

After thirteen years, releasing my book was incredibly liberating. My husband and I took

a trip to the San Juan Islands. I felt fresh like a butterfly just out of the cocoon.

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CAN YOU DESCRIBE THE PROCESS OF BECOMING PUBLISHED AND ANY

TIPS YOU MIGHT OFFER FOR OTHER ASPIRING AUTHORS?

The most important piece of advice I can give new writers is to allow their book to ripen

before publishing. Make sure that every page sparkles, and that the story represents

something important to you. Wait until someone you do not know well reads the

manuscript and jumps up and down. Audition your editors. Send them an excerpt to see

how they respond. No one ever charged me for this. Weigh their responses. Are they

respectful? Excited? Do they see what you are after? Can they offer suggestions to

bring your vision to clarity? Never settle for “good enough.” Strive for excellence

concerning every word, the design, the cover, editing.

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CAN YOU OFFER ANY ADVICE FOR WRITERS ON HOW BEST TO

PROMOTE THEIR BOOK?

Start promoting, entering contests, submitting for reviews, at least 3-4 months before

releasing your book. You can build up pre-order sales on Amazon, which can lead to

bestselling status right off.

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

Try not to take reviews too seriously. Every reader brings to a book the sum of their

state of consciousness. Not everyone is able to read with depth, or willing to take time

to savor what we have done. It is impossible to please everyone. Some of the best

literature stirs up controversy, and causes people to be angry. Anyone and everyone is

now qualified to be a reviewer. This is a two-sided blessing. While it provides readers

with an opportunity to support our work, it also gives a public platform to folks who get a

charge out of belittling our best efforts. The best feedback comes from our colleagues,

editors, publishers, and beta readers. Once your book is published, release it. Rather

than looking at reviews for feedback, go forward.

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WHAT DO YOU CURRENTLY HAVE IN THE WORKS?

Presently, I am working with a producer to develop Moojie Littleman for the big screen.

Also, I am writing and editing my collection of mystical poems. I’d like to publish the

audio book of Moojie Littleman after that, and get going on a sequel!

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The Chinese translation of The Improbable Wonders of Moojie Littleman will be

released by the Beijing Genuine & Profound Literary Culture Media Company, Ltd.,

February, 2018. It will be available on Amazon. 

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