Hello everyone! It’s time to reveal the answers for all 12 questions answered by 12 author participants in the January Group Author Interview, in the 12 genres, 12 authors, 12 months and 12 questions series!

I have to apologize for the delay in posting up the answers for Children’s Book interview series as we previously had two authors pulling out from the interview due to unforeseen circumstances. Nevertheless, we thank them for introducing two other authors for this interview series. But, now we now have not 12, but 14 authors participating in this group author interview.

Yes, I’m breaking the rules for this interview series! While looking for the last author to join us, I had to email a few of them at one go, just to make sure at least one of them gets back to me to complete this interview series. And guess what? I had not one, but THREE authors sending in their submissions at the same time! Can I say no to two of them? Would it be fair? No! So, yes, the more the merrier, I thought. Therefore, let’s welcome 14 authors for this interview series.

The first seven questions are from a ten-year old children’s book reviewer and BookTuber, named Neha Praveen. You can follow her on Twitter at @npstation2018

If you are an author and would like to participate in our upcoming interviews, check out this link, sign up and get your fans to ask their questions to the participating authors! The goal of this author interview is to increase the engagement between readers and authors, and to expose authors to new group of readers.

For more news, book promotion tips and offers, sign up for our newsletter to have the updates delivered right to your inbox.

So, the 12th question is “If there is one thing children’s books should focus on improving, what would that be?”

1) Author #1 : Ann Harrison-Barnes

I think Children’s books can not only educate young readers, but also encourage them to use their imaginations and learn what creative talents they have to offer to the world. Kids need to learn how to continue to use their creative imaginations long after they reach adulthood. I’ve observed the ways in which many people bury their creativity and focus on a job that is more structured than creative in nature. Allowing my creative imagination to grow with me, is what has made me the creative author I am today

2) Author #2: Samantha Hardin

I think we need to write books that make kids like reading. If kids don’t like or care about the story, they are not going to be invested in reading it or anything else.

3) Author #3: C.J. Rains

I feel that the world has moved away from the innocence of childhood. Bringing back traditional values through reading would be a great improvement.

4) Author #4: Padma Venkatraman

I have been working on promoting multicultural (or diverse books, as we now call them) for over a decade and many authors and publishers and people in the writing industry have been at it even longer than I have. I think the organization #WeNeedDiverseBooks has done remarkable work recently, and their unparalleled dedication has resulted in tremendous strides and magnificent progress – but we still have a long way to go and a lot to do to help increase diversity in the children’s book industry, everywhere in the world. 

5) Author #5: Elizabeth Gerlach

I think the trend we are seeing now is very important. Having all groups of people represented in children’s books is powerful. 

6) Author #6: Cassie Miller

At this junction, there are so many amazing titles, authors and illustrators I feel that what needs improving isn’t the books so much as the reception and delivery of the books. Television, cell phones, tablets and computers have become the norm, adapting to that is the challenge for children’s books

7) Author #7: Charlie Bee

Unless educational, (or may be even so), every page should be a page turner. 

8) Author #8: Jerry Craft

I would like to see more books featuring kids of color who are doing the same things that kids in other books are doing: eating ice cream, playing, having imaginary friends.

9) Author #9: Linda Covella

Publishers are becoming more aware of the need for diversity in children’s books, including creating an appropriate cover that reflects the character(s) in the book. Also, I’d like to see more internationally published books made available to children here in the United States. So many of our children grow up knowing very little about other countries.

10) Author #10: Tracy K

Making it clean for kids to read. Some books are too filthy and to grotesque

11) Author #11: Beffy Parkin

Children’s books definitely need to be more diverse! There’s so many cultures and backgrounds in this world that need more representation in children’s literature and picture books. The more children are exposed to diversity, the more they can understand the world around them!

12) Author #12: Lory Linn

I think some books are too immature, for example, rhyming is great for a 3-year old, but not so much for a 5-year old. I think children’s books need to concentrate more on traditional lessons and less fantasy and they should always incorporate honesty and trust.

13) Author #13: Karen Magnen

Books should be fun and entertaining and teach lessons that children of the age group it is geared towards can and should understand.  Reading a story to your child should capture their imagination and make them want to read.  Stories teaching kids that they do not have to be a girl or boy if they do not want to, or teaching a six year old about the dangers of having Trump as our President do not make any sense to me.  Those kind of books when I see them, just make me angry and I want to start screaming in the middle of the book store about what adults are trying to do to our kids.  Let kids be kids.  Let them be innocent as long as possible for goodness sake! Get back to basics, reading should be fun!

14) Author #14: Dr. Graham Clingbine

To ensure that information and storylines are set out in a format and level suitable for the age of the child readers without taking them too far ahead into the future with issues of adult themes best dealt with later on in life.

Stay tuned for the next post. Be sure to follow this website via email to get notified when new posts are being made.

Best regards,

Jasveena

Founder of International Book Promotion

Hello everyone! It’s time to reveal the answers for all 12 questions answered by 12 author participants in the January Group Author Interview, in the 12 genres, 12 authors, 12 months and 12 questions series!

I have to apologize for the delay in posting up the answers for Children’s Book interview series as we previously had two authors pulling out from the interview due to unforeseen circumstances. Nevertheless, we thank them for introducing two other authors for this interview series. But, now we now have not 12, but 14 authors participating in this group author interview.

Yes, I’m breaking the rules for this interview series! While looking for the last author to join us, I had to email a few of them at one go, just to make sure at least one of them gets back to me to complete this interview series. And guess what? I had not one, but THREE authors sending in their submissions at the same time! Can I say no to two of them? Would it be fair? No! So, yes, the more the merrier, I thought. Therefore, let’s welcome 14 authors for this interview series.

The first seven questions are from a ten-year old children’s book reviewer and BookTuber, named Neha Praveen. You can follow her on Twitter at @npstation2018

If you are an author and would like to participate in our upcoming interviews, check out this link, sign up and get your fans to ask their questions to the participating authors! The goal of this author interview is to increase the engagement between readers and authors, and to expose authors to new group of readers.

For more news, book promotion tips and offers, sign up for our newsletter to have the updates delivered right to your inbox.

So, the 11th question is “What are your aspirations, as a children’s book author?”

1) Author #1 : Ann Harrison-Barnes

I want to entertain children and give them a message of encouragement and a takeaway that they can remember for the rest of their lives.

2) Author #2: Samantha Hardin

My aspirations are to put out books that children enjoy and help them enjoy the art of reading.

3) Author #3: C.J. Rains

I am so far a self-published author, so I would say to be published traditionally is something we all strive for. If that never happens, I will continue to write for the pure joy of the craft. I am blessed each time I see a child smile when reading one of my books.

4) Author #4: Padma Venkatraman

I’ve already heard from some readers of THE BRIDGE HOME who experienced homelessness and who want to change the world. My aspiration is that my work will promote compassion and understanding and help fuel change for the better in our world.

5) Author #5: Elizabeth Gerlach

I hope to create more books within the Ben’s Adventures book series – I hope that Ben can take many fun adventures.

6) Author #6: Cassie Miller

My son has a special book, if he doesn’t have it at bed time he cries  and cannot sleep, he takes it everywhere with him. I want to make a book that a child loves that much

7) Author #7: Charlie Bee

To have as many children as possible listen to, or read our stories, to make them laugh and smile.

8) Author #8: Jerry Craft

To create the books that I wish I had as a kid. I was not a reader, and I think it was largely due to not having books with characters that I could relate to. I would love for the characters in “New Kid” to one day join the ranks of iconic middle grade characters.

9) Author #9: Linda Covella

I hope to share my stories with as many children as possible.

I love writing for children, having them as my audience. Kids and teens have such unique perspectives on life. I absolutely love hearing what’s on a kid’s mind—at any age.

The youngsters are always fun to watch as they show their amazement and delight with each new discovery—discoveries that we have long since taken for granted.

During the middle-school years, kids are starting to come into their own, learning who they are and flexing their maturity muscles. Their independence is beginning to flourish as they start to question things and form their own ideas and opinions.

I have a great respect for teens. By that age, they’ve developed their own one-of-a-kind personalities and strong viewpoints on all sorts of topics. They rightfully question things and begin to test and stretch the limits that are attempting to rein them in. Believe it or not, I can still remember those feelings from my own teen years, and it’s an exhilarating time of life.

I think writing for kids keeps me in touch with the feelings from my childhood. It also encourages me to keep an open mind when I’m with kids, to remind me they are unique individuals, and to give them that respect.

10) Author #10: Tracy K

To inspire children to grow up into decent and caring young adults. 

11) Author #11: Beffy Parkin

I very much enjoy writing and seeing little ones reading my work – I first started making stories when working in a pre-school, so making up wonderfully weird stories always made the children smile, which helped spark an interest in books – win win!

12) Author #12: Lory Linn

I believe in educating in ways that are fun without the child realizing they are learning. I want to see physical books in the hands of children so that they can continue to read and learn in a traditional way. It warms my heart when I see children sitting down reading actual books. I wanted to create a new character that will be remembered for generations to come.

13) Author #13: Karen Magnen

I would like children to use their imagination, have fun reading, teach lessons that they should learn.  Parents should read to their children and encourage the child to read with them.  It should be family time.  My fondest memories are of reading to my children and laughing with them over what we were reading, or talking to them about the lessons they may learn.  I found out my child was bullied through reading. That is important. Reading is supposed to be fun and entertaining, especially for young children.  There is getting to be too much violence and sex in movies, television and games and videos.  We need to do a better job at policing what our children see. 

14) Author #14: Dr. Graham Clingbine

To stimulate the imagination of children and take them to a place where their dreams feel like reality.

Stay tuned for the next post. Be sure to follow this website via email to get notified when new posts are being made.

Best regards,

Jasveena

Founder of International Book Promotion

Hello everyone! It’s time to reveal the answers for all 12 questions answered by 12 author participants in the January Group Author Interview, in the 12 genres, 12 authors, 12 months and 12 questions series!

I have to apologize for the delay in posting up the answers for Children’s Book interview series as we previously had two authors pulling out from the interview due to unforeseen circumstances. Nevertheless, we thank them for introducing two other authors for this interview series. But, now we now have not 12, but 14 authors participating in this group author interview.

Yes, I’m breaking the rules for this interview series! While looking for the last author to join us, I had to email a few of them at one go, just to make sure at least one of them gets back to me to complete this interview series. And guess what? I had not one, but THREE authors sending in their submissions at the same time! Can I say no to two of them? Would it be fair? No! So, yes, the more the merrier, I thought. Therefore, let’s welcome 14 authors for this interview series.

The first seven questions are from a ten-year old children’s book reviewer and BookTuber, named Neha Praveen. You can follow her on Twitter at @npstation2018

If you are an author and would like to participate in our upcoming interviews, check out this link, sign up and get your fans to ask their questions to the participating authors! The goal of this author interview is to increase the engagement between readers and authors, and to expose authors to new group of readers.

For more news, book promotion tips and offers, sign up for our newsletter to have the updates delivered right to your inbox.

So, the 10th question is “Name one children’s book you would totally recommend to parents and kids, and why?”

1) Author #1 : Ann Harrison-Barnes

There are so many good classic children’s stories in the world that kids aren’t given the opportunity to read in this day and age, so I can’t name just one book. For example, I remember stories like “Stone Soup”, “The Little Engine that Could”, “Thumper’s big Race”, and so many more that have valuable lessons that parents can teach their children .

2) Author #2: Samantha Hardin

I would recommend the book “The Day the Crayons Quit” by Drew Daywalt. This is a fun book that explores different colors and emotions. Great read.

3) Author #3: C.J. Rains

Charlotte’s Web” was always a favorite of mine and my children. It teaches kindness, and that is a biggie for me.

4) Author #4: Padma Venkatraman

One children’s book that isn’t mine and that I would totally recommend to parents and kids is DRUM DREAM GIRL by Margarita Engle. Why? I love everything about it – plot, character, and language; and I think it helps increase every reader’s empathy and understanding. It’s poetry, story, and biography in way. I’ll admit I love everything Engle writes and can’t wait to read her latest book, SOARING EARTH.

5) Author #5: Elizabeth Gerlach

I personally love Giraffes Can’t Dance by Giles Andreae. The rhyme is great, the story is sweet and touching, and you really feel for Gerald (the giraffe) by the end. And it has such a great message.

6) Author #6: Cassie Miller

Jonathan James and the What If Monster by Michelle Nelson-schmidt. It is such a lovely book, and it’s all about ignoring  the what-it’s and just doing it. I think that’s a lesson even adults need

7) Author #7: Charlie Bee

Mr. Sandmans Amazing World of Dreams. Available as a YouTube read-aloud, via our channel and also available as an Amazon ebook. This story is perfect for helping young children settle down to sleep… perfect for children and parents! 

8) Author #8: Jerry Craft

Schomburg: The Man Who Built a Library by Carole Boston Weatherford and illustrated by Eric Velásquez. It’s beautiful to look at, and inspirational to read.

9) Author #9: Linda Covella

To Kill a Mockingbird by Harper Lee because it has so many aspects to it, such as lessons on the evils of racism, family relations (parents and children, siblings), kindness, and a good mystery.

10) Author #10: Tracy K

Alice in Wonderland.  Its very imaginative and clean. 

11) Author #11: Beffy Parkin

It’ll have to be Dr. Seuss’ The Lorax – it has a wonderful meaning behind it, and the story is fabulous. I love Dr. Seuss myself, my favourite is Cat In The Hat!

12) Author #12: Lory Linn

The Llama Llama series because it’s colorful and it also teaches valuable lessons.

13) Author #13: Karen Magnen

My children are long since grown, but we had every Beatrix Potter and Dr. Seuss book in our home when they were growing up.  As they got older we found we loved Alice in Wonderland, A Wrinkle in Time. 

14) Author #14: Dr. Graham Clingbine

I would recommend without hesitation Times Tables Fun with Naughty Katie by Lorraine Reed. This book combines the learning of Times Tables and the fun of a story in poetic form. Since this book was published in 2016, its effective learning technique has become popular among primary school teachers and is being used as a learning aid in a growing number of schools. The main character Naughty Katie gets up to lots of mischief as she takes you on a journey throughout the Times Tables all the way up to 12×12. The story ends on a positive note as Katie learns that being well behaved is much more fun! The moral of the story promotes positive behaviour and each chapter teaches another Times Tables. The end of each story-line rhymes with the answer to the next Times Table, so that the child will be sure that the number in their head is correct allowing them to answer with confidence. Throughout this book as you shall see, Because 3 x 1 is 3. The girls will teach you so much more! Because 4 x 1 is 4. This book is suitable for children of all ages who struggle with traditional learning methods. For children from 3 years old it can be read as a bedtime story as an introduction to the number patterns of the Times Tables. Enjoy Katie and? Misty’s adventures whilst learning Time Tables in a fun way, with repetition speeding up the learning process.

Link https://www.amazon.co.uk/Times-Tables-Fun-Naughty-Katie/dp/0995620261/ref=sr_1_1_twi_pap_2?s=books&ie=UTF8&qid=1535312218&sr=1-1&keywords=lorraine+reed+times+table

Stay tuned for the next post. Be sure to follow this website via email to get notified when new posts are being made.

Best regards,

Jasveena

Founder of International Book Promotion

Hello everyone! It’s time to reveal the answers for all 12 questions answered by 12 author participants in the January Group Author Interview, in the 12 genres, 12 authors, 12 months and 12 questions series!

I have to apologize for the delay in posting up the answers for Children’s Book interview series as we previously had two authors pulling out from the interview due to unforeseen circumstances. Nevertheless, we thank them for introducing two other authors for this interview series. But, now we now have not 12, but 14 authors participating in this group author interview.

Yes, I’m breaking the rules for this interview series! While looking for the last author to join us, I had to email a few of them at one go, just to make sure at least one of them gets back to me to complete this interview series. And guess what? I had not one, but THREE authors sending in their submissions at the same time! Can I say no to two of them? Would it be fair? No! So, yes, the more the merrier, I thought. Therefore, let’s welcome 14 authors for this interview series.

The first seven questions are from a ten-year old children’s book reviewer and BookTuber, named Neha Praveen. You can follow her on Twitter at @npstation2018

If you are an author and would like to participate in our upcoming interviews, check out this link, sign up and get your fans to ask their questions to the participating authors! The goal of this author interview is to increase the engagement between readers and authors, and to expose authors to new group of readers.

For more news, book promotion tips and offers, sign up for our newsletter to have the updates delivered right to your inbox.

So, the 9th question is “How do you think your work is different from the other children’s books?”

1) Author #1 : Ann Harrison-Barnes

Unlike some children’s book authors, who focus on a faery tale or an adventure alone, I weave the faery tale in with an adventure and a bit of mystery, to leave children and their parents hanging on the edge of their seats.

2) Author #2: Samantha Hardin

In Zertle the Crime-Fighting Turtle: The Pumpkin Patch Snatch, the readers gets to interact with the story and help Zertle solve the mystery. The reader also gets to draw in their own pictures.

3) Author #3: C.J. Rains

Coming back to the previous question, I have been seeing more and more children’s books focusing on serious subjects such as cancer and sexual orientation, etc. I think my books may be different because they don’t focus on the serious, but the joy of childhood. I want my books to be an open door, an open door, if you will, an escape from all that is wrong with the world today.

4) Author #4: Padma Venkatraman

I don’t shy away from including something about my characters’ religious, philosophical and spiritual backgrounds – and I think that’s unusual in children’s books today. It’s not the focus of my books, but it is an integral part of all of them, in a natural way. I also think I push myself to explore different forms as an author: Climbing the Stairs is lush, evocative prose; A Time to Dance is lean, spare verse; The Bridge Home is written in the second person to provide the feel of an epistolary novel.

5) Author #5: Elizabeth Gerlach

All authors hope to create a story that has a special meaning and message and one that will resonate with children and families.

6) Author #6: Cassie Miller

Every person on this planet is unique, and approaches things in their own way. If you give 100 authors the same topic, you will get 100 different books, it’s the most beautiful part of writing

7) Author #7: Charlie Bee

We read our stories aloud and set them to music…awesome! Not only are we Authors, but we write, illustrate, narrate, sing, edit and produce our own work, which sets us apart from other children’s books.  We have great content, if you’re looking for a safe entertainment Youtube channel for children, we’re a great find!  We’d be delighted if you checked us out and supported us by subscribing and sharing our channel, thank you!

8) Author #8: Jerry Craft

I think that one of the main differences with my books is my use of humor. I also try very hard to stay away from stereotypes and address nuances as opposed to generalities.

9) Author #9: Linda Covella

My books typically combine a strong theme of friendship and self-discovery with an exciting story such as one with adventure, mystery, or paranormal aspects.

10) Author #10: Tracy K

I try to write clean, educational and inspiring stories. 

11) Author #11: Beffy Parkin

I feel my books are different as they include some weird and wonderful characters, they are unique and it’s good to be different!

12) Author #12: Lory Linn

I think that many children can relate to the character because in real-life they encounter some of the same situations my character faces. It’s more realistic than some, although the stuffed cat does come to life when the grown-ups are not around. Most children do have an imaginary friend or stuffie, so that is still part of the reality in a child’s mind. There are no fairies, princesses, wizards, or any other fantasies in the book, just a little girl who is mischievous and full of questions. Also, the bow in the character’s hair matches the collar on the cat and in every book the colors are different and intended to be used as a learning tool to help children learn colors.

13) Author #13: Karen Magnen

I am not sure my work is different. If I was to pick out anything, I guess I try to really capture the innocence and the way a child would behave or act in my stories, and I can really see myself as a child. I can hear myself think and even speak as a child.  I bring that inner child out in my stories. The first Rosie story “The Dragon Who Got the Fairy Godmother to Like Vegetables,” does not have an actual child in it, the only story I wrote that did not actually, but I still created the book with children in mind.  The animal realm has lollipop trees, gumball bushes, chocolate chip cookies that grow on trees.  They are for the animals in the book, who really do not like vegetables either.  

14) Author #14: Dr. Graham Clingbine

My book has several short stories rather than one long story. It is mainly based on events that actually happened to me in real life or to places I have personally visited either as a child or adult.

Stay tuned for the next post. Be sure to follow this website via email to get notified when new posts are being made.

Best regards,

Jasveena

Founder of International Book Promotion

Hello everyone! It’s time to reveal the answers for all 12 questions answered by 12 author participants in the January Group Author Interview, in the 12 genres, 12 authors, 12 months and 12 questions series!

I have to apologize for the delay in posting up the answers for Children’s Book interview series as we previously had two authors pulling out from the interview due to unforeseen circumstances. Nevertheless, we thank them for introducing two other authors for this interview series. But, now we now have not 12, but 14 authors participating in this group author interview.

Yes, I’m breaking the rules for this interview series! While looking for the last author to join us, I had to email a few of them at one go, just to make sure at least one of them gets back to me to complete this interview series. And guess what? I had not one, but THREE authors sending in their submissions at the same time! Can I say no to two of them? Would it be fair? No! So, yes, the more the merrier, I thought. Therefore, let’s welcome 14 authors for this interview series.

The first seven questions are from a ten-year old children’s book reviewer and BookTuber, named Neha Praveen. You can follow her on Twitter at @npstation2018

If you are an author and would like to participate in our upcoming interviews, check out this link, sign up and get your fans to ask their questions to the participating authors! The goal of this author interview is to increase the engagement between readers and authors, and to expose authors to new group of readers.

For more news, book promotion tips and offers, sign up for our newsletter to have the updates delivered right to your inbox.

So, the 8th question is “Children’s books have improved over the years and there are books that discuss sexual education, cancer awareness and gender equality. Do you think these topics are too much for children to learn?”

1) Author #1 : Ann Harrison-Barnes

As with any type of medium, the topics you choose to discuss with children, depends upon their age group. For example, children who are in preschool up until they reach the forth or fifth grade may not understand the topics mentioned above. However, children and teenagers in middle grades up through high school need to be educated on these and other subjects of importance.

2) Author #2: Samantha Hardin

I don’t think so. I think the topics have to be handled in a delicate way, but kids should be exposed to these topics early on in life.

3) Author #3: C.J. Rains

I think anything can be carried too far and take the joy out of reading. I prefer to use fun topics that will stimulate the child’s imagination.

4) Author #4: Padma Venkatraman

I think it’s very important for children to understand the world around them. A lot of misery can result from a lack of knowledge. When we don’t bother to provide children with honest and open sexual education, or when we act like they can’t understand debilitating diseases like cancer, we run the risk that children will suffer more than if we discuss them in a kind and straightforward manner. As for gender inequality and other kinds of inequity, I think children already experience these things – to see them in books validates the experience. 

5) Author #5: Elizabeth Gerlach

I think it depends on the age of the child. Some will be too young to really relate and be able to understand more sensitive topics. The main character of my book uses a wheelchair so it can introduce special needs concepts to kids and parents can address simple age-appropriate questions such as ‘why is that child not like me?’ or ‘why can’t that child walk?’ or ‘Can he still play with me?’ These types of questions are also important but less sensitive and easier to understand than some other topics that are trending right now.

6) Author #6: Cassie Miller

No, I think that children’s books are the perfect format for a child to learn these things. If done well they can become amazing tools. Children are so astute and inquisitive, as a parent it canbe challenging to explain something that was overheard from an adult conversation

7) Author #7: Charlie Bee

Not at all, in the right way. We believe children ought to know about difficult and sensitive subjects, but only at an age, and in a manner that is appropriate for them. As each child is different, we believe that their introduction to these subjects be determined by their care givers. 

8) Author #8: Jerry Craft

I don’t think they’re too much for kids if they’re done well and offer hope, but it’s all in the way it’s handled. One of my favorite books that I’ve ever illustrated is called “What’s Below Your Tummy Tum?” It was written by Michelle R. Britto who is a Licensed Social Worker who has dedicated so much of her life to helping kids. This particular book is designed to empower kids and give them the language that they may need in order to prevent sexual abuse. I have heard stories of how it has done just that. I wish EVERY kid could get a copy.

And one of the first books I ever did is called “Looking to the Clouds For Daddy,” by Margo Candelario, and is about three sisters who are dealing with the loss of their dad. That book proved to be a great way for kids to grieve on their own time and to teach them that they are not alone. Meanwhile, “Khalil’s Way,” which I illustrated for David Miller, and “The Offenders: Saving the World While Serving Detention!” which I wrote with my sons, dealt with bullying.

9) Author #9: Linda Covella

Not at all. I personally don’t tend to tackle these issues in my books, but I’m grateful there are authors and publishers who do. I was lucky: My mother was always honest and straightforward with us about issues that many parents are either too embarrassed to discuss with their children, or believe they’re too young. We shouldn’t shy away from these discussions. Children naturally have questions; they’re exposed to the issues in the regular and social media. Books help parents and educators open discussions with children. Of course, the book must be appropriately written and chosen for the age group it’s targeting.

10) Author #10: Tracy K

They can help some.

11) Author #11: Beffy Parkin

Yes I do. I think they need to be at least in their teens to learn of these topics. 

12) Author #12: Lory Linn

I don’t think so. I think it’s good to have a learning tool such as a book with characters that children can relate to when it comes to educating them on serious issues. I think that it’s also good for the parents and other adults who might have a problem beginning the discussion with the children. It could open the window for them to easily talk to the child. As a parent and grandmother, I would rather the children learn from me than from a stranger, even if it is through a book.

13) Author #13: Karen Magnen

Children need to be children and not get caught up in adult politics of race, sex, drugs, gender identity etc. I can see stories about different people or sickness and disease, but getting into topics of sexual nature, or gender politics, do not belong in a story for children.  Those topics should be discussed with an adult the child trusts, and not some author pushing an agenda, in my opinion.  Teens can handle these topics, not children under 10 or 11.

14) Author #14: Dr. Graham Clingbine

Any written work in this area should have age-related suitable content as I think children should be allowed to enjoy their childhood. I think sexual education is important but it should be pitched at an appropriate level and not go beyond a child’s natural basic curiosity. I have in fact written a book on human sexual behavior and it has been recommended for use by students in USA high schools by Mid-West Book Reviewers based in Oregon, USA.

Stay tuned for the next post. Be sure to follow this website via email to get notified when new posts are being made.

Best regards,

Jasveena

Founder of International Book Promotion

Hello everyone! It’s time to reveal the answers for all 12 questions answered by 12 author participants in the January Group Author Interview, in the 12 genres, 12 authors, 12 months and 12 questions series!

I have to apologize for the delay in posting up the answers for Children’s Book interview series as we previously had two authors pulling out from the interview due to unforeseen circumstances. Nevertheless, we thank them for introducing two other authors for this interview series. But, now we now have not 12, but 14 authors participating in this group author interview.

Yes, I’m breaking the rules for this interview series! While looking for the last author to join us, I had to email a few of them at one go, just to make sure at least one of them gets back to me to complete this interview series. And guess what? I had not one, but THREE authors sending in their submissions at the same time! Can I say no to two of them? Would it be fair? No! So, yes, the more the merrier, I thought. Therefore, let’s welcome 14 authors for this interview series.

The first seven questions are from a ten-year old children’s book reviewer and BookTuber, named Neha Praveen. You can follow her on Twitter at @npstation2018

If you are an author and would like to participate in our upcoming interviews, check out this link, sign up and get your fans to ask their questions to the participating authors! The goal of this author interview is to increase the engagement between readers and authors, and to expose authors to new group of readers.

For more news, book promotion tips and offers, sign up for our newsletter to have the updates delivered right to your inbox.

So, the 6th question is “What do you think of video bloggers or You Tubers who promote books? ”

1) Author #1 : Ann Harrison-Barnes

I think that if you have the talent and desire to promote your favorite authors, then I congratulate you. YouTubers and bloggers who promote authors and their work are great promotional outlets, in my opinion.

2) Author #2: Samantha Hardin

I think they are awesome. Indie authors especially need a lot of exposure to get books sold. I would love for someone to talk about my book.

3) Author #3: C.J. Rains

I think that is a very good idea, although I’ve not done it myself yet.

4) Author #4: Padma Venkatraman

Thanks for celebrating reading and books – that’s wonderful and I appreciate you all deeply.

5) Author #5: Elizabeth Gerlach

I think it’s a great idea and just another channel that can help with book awareness with new audiences. It also allows some interactivity, showing video and pages of the book during a reading.

6) Author #6: Cassie Miller

I think they are wonderful. I can’t think of anything better than someone sharing something they a passionate about with others especially when that thing is literature

7) Author #7: Charlie Bee

We’re all for it! We’re happy for our work to be promoted in this way.

8) Author #8: Jerry Craft

I love them. I’ve done some that have turned out great. And with my schedule, it’s nice to do it online so that I don’t have to travel to a studio to record.

9) Author #9: Linda Covella

I know YouTube popularity is skyrocketing, so I think authors need to get involved in YouTube promotion.

10) Author #10: Tracy K

They can help some.

11) Author #11: Beffy Parkin

I think video bloggers and book vloggers are amazing at expressing their passion for literature! It’s lovely to see people are excited about books and are wanting to talk about them.

12) Author #12: Lory Linn

I think it’s a wonderful idea! Many people, myself included, are quick to turn to video blogs and YouTube to find reviews on products, so, I think it’s an excellent way to get the books into the hands of people.

13) Author #13: Karen Magnen

I have no problem with video bloggers or you tubers promoting books.  I have reached out to one woman who will be reading stories to children via You Tube, and she said she will gladly look at my stories for this purpose when they are released.

14) Author #14: Dr. Graham Clingbine

I do not have too much experience in this area but of the little I tried it was somewhat disappointing.

Stay tuned for the next post. Be sure to follow this website via email to get notified when new posts are being made.

Best regards,

Jasveena

Founder of International Book Promotion

Hello everyone! It’s time to reveal the answers for all 12 questions answered by 12 author participants in the January Group Author Interview, in the 12 genres, 12 authors, 12 months and 12 questions series!

I have to apologize for the delay in posting up the answers for Children’s Book interview series as we previously had two authors pulling out from the interview due to unforeseen circumstances. Nevertheless, we thank them for introducing two other authors for this interview series. But, now we now have not 12, but 14 authors participating in this group author interview.

Yes, I’m breaking the rules for this interview series! While looking for the last author to join us, I had to email a few of them at one go, just to make sure at least one of them gets back to me to complete this interview series. And guess what? I had not one, but THREE authors sending in their submissions at the same time! Can I say no to two of them? Would it be fair? No! So, yes, the more the merrier, I thought. Therefore, let’s welcome 14 authors for this interview series.

The first seven questions are from a ten-year old children’s book reviewer and BookTuber, named Neha Praveen. You can follow her on Twitter at @npstation2018

If you are an author and would like to participate in our upcoming interviews, check out this link, sign up and get your fans to ask their questions to the participating authors! The goal of this author interview is to increase the engagement between readers and authors, and to expose authors to new group of readers.

For more news, book promotion tips and offers, sign up for our newsletter to have the updates delivered right to your inbox.

So, the 6th question is “How do you promote your books?”

1) Author #1 : Ann Harrison-Barnes

I often use social media to engage with readers. From there, I share links to my books when people ask for them. I have also started doing interviews for blogs like this one, being interviewed on a YouTube channel and a couple of podcasts. I plan to start a podcast of my own in the near future to help me promote my books as well as the work of others.

2) Author #2: Samantha Hardin

I have an author twitter account @shardinauthor that I use to talk about my book at times. I also have a Facebook page called The Adventures of Zertle the Crime-Fighting Turtle. I also have business cards that I leave in various places.

3) Author #3: C.J. Rains

I have a website and an author page on Facebook where I promote my work, and I have done a few book signings. I also spread the word to friends and family who tell their friends.

4) Author #4: Padma Venkatraman

I welcome any opportunity that comes my way – like this wonderful interview. Thank you!

5) Author #5: Elizabeth Gerlach

Primarily social media channels and connections/followers. I’ve also done some media outreach. I also promote on Amazon to get parents when they are in shopping mode. 

6) Author #6: Cassie Miller

Social media, mainly Instagram and FB

7) Author #7: Charlie Bee

We decided to do something different! We publish our own books as read-alouds via our YouTube Channel, Storyvision Studios UK.

Storyvision Studios UK, was formed by myself and my wonderful mother, who has been writing for decades. I myself have always loved writing, and wrote my first Children’s creation, for my children, five years ago.

We absolutely love what we do! We illustrate our own drawings, and set our stories to music. We’ve also created original educational nursery rhymes. 

8) Author #8: Jerry Craft

Social media is huge. Facebook is more about keeping people I know in the loop, but Twitter is where the real promotion is. Instagram is somewhere in between. Plus, New Kid is the first book that I’ve ever done that has a real PR team behind it. The folks from HarperCollins have been amazing.

9) Author #9: Linda Covella

On social media—mostly Facebook and Twitter, but also Instagram and Pinterest, and I have book trailers on YouTube. I also occasionally attend book fairs and book store appearances.

10) Author #10: Tracy K

Through social media

11) Author #11: Beffy Parkin

I have no pennies to make lovely big billboards, although that would be nice! I have to promote the books by going into local schools to talk to children, or write about the books on my social media accounts. It would be amazing if word-of-mouth promoted the books better, as I have had a lot of lovely verbal feedback from parents in person!

12) Author #12: Lory Linn

A lot of social media and word of mouth! A lot of my work day involves marketing.

13) Author #13: Karen Magnen

Book promotion I will get into more when the first book is published.  Right now I am reaching out on Facebook to my friends and on different groups and social media platforms I am in.  I have spoken to local libraries about reading my stories to children there, and they are welcoming to the idea.  My publisher, of course will do a lot of the promoting, also.

14) Author #14: Dr. Graham Clingbine

There are numerous ways and I think my book website is important. I have also used Facebook and Twitter and guested at various book signing events. On occasions I have used flyers, business cards, posters and newspaper advertising plus some professional book marketers. Some of my books have YouTube video book trailers too. Simple word of mouth and referrals is also a simple way of passing on book information.

Stay tuned for the next post. Be sure to follow this website via email to get notified when new posts are being made.

Best regards,

Jasveena

Founder of International Book Promotion

Hello everyone! It’s time to reveal the answers for all 12 questions answered by 12 author participants in the January Group Author Interview, in the 12 genres, 12 authors, 12 months and 12 questions series!

I have to apologize for the delay in posting up the answers for Children’s Book interview series as we previously had two authors pulling out from the interview due to unforeseen circumstances. Nevertheless, we thank them for introducing two other authors for this interview series. But, now we now have not 12, but 14 authors participating in this group author interview.

Yes, I’m breaking the rules for this interview series! While looking for the last author to join us, I had to email a few of them at one go, just to make sure at least one of them gets back to me to complete this interview series. And guess what? I had not one, but THREE authors sending in their submissions at the same time! Can I say no to two of them? Would it be fair? No! So, yes, the more the merrier, I thought. Therefore, let’s welcome 14 authors for this interview series.

The first seven questions are from a ten-year old children’s book reviewer and BookTuber, named Neha Praveen. You can follow her on Twitter at @npstation2018

If you are an author and would like to participate in our upcoming interviews, check out this link, sign up and get your fans to ask their questions to the participating authors! The goal of this author interview is to increase the engagement between readers and authors, and to expose authors to new group of readers.

For more news, book promotion tips and offers, sign up for our newsletter to have the updates delivered right to your inbox.

So, the 5th question is “What age group do you target?”

1) Author #1 : Ann Harrison-Barnes

For Maggie’s Gravy Train Adventure, I targeted ages eight through eleven, though I don’t exclude anyone from reading my books.

2) Author #2: Samantha Hardin

My Zertle books are targeted at the 2-7 age range. The middle-grade novel I’m working on will be targeted to 4th-8th graders. Of course, anyone is welcome to read them at any age.

3) Author #3: C.J. Rains

I don’t have a particular age group. When I have an idea and begin a story is when I decide what age category it will fir best

4) Author #4: Padma Venkatraman

The Bridge Home is my first middle grade novel, and my previous novels, A Time To Dance, Island’s End and Climbing the Stairs were considered young adult.

5) Author #5: Elizabeth Gerlach

Children, preschool-second grade, 2-8 year olds .

6) Author #6: Cassie Miller

2 – 7 year olds

7) Author #7: Charlie Bee

Preschool to app. 12 years of age.

8) Author #8: Jerry Craft

Although I have illustrated a lot of picture books for beginning readers, the books I’ve written have all been for the middle grade market.

9) Author #9: Linda Covella

Mostly middle grade and younger teens, maybe eight to sixteen year olds. Though older teens and adults have enjoyed Yakimali’s Gift and even some of my other novels. My latest publication is a picture book, The Power of a Dream: Maria Feliciana Arballo, Latina Pioneer, but it’s targeted at kids five to ten years old. And I believe because of the historical aspect, the book could be used by teachers and parents as a teaching tool. It’s a narrative nonfiction, which means the book is written in story format rather than straight nonfiction factual style.

10) Author #10: Tracy K

children and young adult

11) Author #11: Beffy Parkin

My Charlie Cheese Books are aimed at 2 – 7 year olds, as the rhyming story and colourful and wacky images appeal to the younger children, and the older children are exposed to more complex vocabulary as well as a fun story. I am releasing a book in the very near future called The Macroodelzig, it contains an exciting rhyming story which again gives children exposure and the opportunity to learn new words.

12) Author #12: Lory Linn

The series I’m working on now is targeted for children from about 3 to 6 years old.

13) Author #13: Karen Magnen

So far I find I enjoy writing for young children up into the teen group.  I do have ideas for adult themed stories, which I may work on soon.

14) Author #14: Dr. Graham Clingbine

For readers who are children I would say between 6-14 years old. I think for the younger ones a parent could read the stories out loud (say at bedtime) to the child.

Stay tuned for the next post. Be sure to follow this website via email to get notified when new posts are being made.

Best regards,

Jasveena

Founder of International Book Promotion

Hello everyone! It’s time to reveal the answers for all 12 questions answered by 12 author participants in the January Group Author Interview, in the 12 genres, 12 authors, 12 months and 12 questions series!

I have to apologize for the delay in posting up the answers for Children’s Book interview series as we previously had two authors pulling out from the interview due to unforeseen circumstances. Nevertheless, we thank them for introducing two other authors for this interview series. But, now we now have not 12, but 14 authors participating in this group author interview.

Yes, I’m breaking the rules for this interview series! While looking for the last author to join us, I had to email a few of them at one go, just to make sure at least one of them gets back to me to complete this interview series. And guess what? I had not one, but THREE authors sending in their submissions at the same time! Can I say no to two of them? Would it be fair? No! So, yes, the more the merrier, I thought. Therefore, let’s welcome 14 authors for this interview series.

The first seven questions are from a ten-year old children’s book reviewer and BookTuber, named Neha Praveen. You can follow her on Twitter at @npstation2018

If you are an author and would like to participate in our upcoming interviews, check out this link, sign up and get your fans to ask their questions to the participating authors! The goal of this author interview is to increase the engagement between readers and authors, and to expose authors to new group of readers.

For more news, book promotion tips and offers, sign up for our newsletter to have the updates delivered right to your inbox.

So, the 4th question is “Is there a lot of material that you have written that never gets published?”

1) Author #1 : Ann Harrison-Barnes

There are a few short stories that never got published in magazines, but I can’t say that they are never published, because I published them in a short story collection, which I will be rebranding in a few weeks.

2) Author #2: Samantha Hardin

At this point, the only thing I’ve tried to publish is Zertle the Crime-fighting Turtle and that went great. I am working on a middle-grade historical time travel series that I hope to traditionally publish eventually.

3) Author #3: C.J. Rains

I have a lot of material lying about as do most writers. I have future plans for just about all of it.

4) Author #4: Padma Venkatraman

It varies. I’m a mom first and foremost, and that takes precedence. I write as much and as often as I can – sometimes just in my head at night after a hectic day when I’m too tired to type.

5) Author #5: Elizabeth Gerlach

Children’s books… no. I have written various articles and blog posts that I publish on my own social channels and websites. A couple have been picked up by larger sites.

6) Author #6: Cassie Miller

Oh yes, the majority of my writing will go unpublished

7) Author #7: Charlie Bee

Rejections are part and parcel of becoming a published Author. There’s a lot of competition out there!

8) Author #8: Jerry Craft

I have maybe three manuscripts that are nearly complete that I never finished. And with New Kid, I probably cut 50 pages from the original draft, plus one or two characters in their entirety.

9) Author #9: Linda Covella

Yes! I’ve written several picture books that I’ve queried to agents and publishers, which were never accepted for publication. I don’t want to self-publish those since I need illustrations. I’ve learned picture books are so much more difficult to write than people realize. So mostly I stick with novels, which I do love to write.

10) Author #10: Tracy K

Not really, once I finish a book, I get it published, one way or another.

11) Author #11: Beffy Parkin

I do have a fair amount of material that is just scribbly notes! Too much! Sometimes I leave notes and come back to them at a later date, and sometimes I feel that those ideas are no longer relevant and can be left out of publishing.

12) Author #12: Lory Linn

Yes, but that is by my choice. As humans, I think we are our own worse critics and a lot of my work is put on the shelf because I’m not happy with it. When that happens, I consider it a rest period and I will go back and polish it up later.

13) Author #13: Karen Magnen

I had some trouble breaking into the publishing industry because I was a new author.  It is a shame that new authors really are pushed aside for older tried and true authors.  My publisher, Bob Scott,  specifically calls upon new authors to reach out to him.  I heard about him on a Facebook group for children’s book writers.   I sent him the first Rosie story, and the first Milton story.  He got back to me within two days with a contract, loving both of them.   He did not ask for money up front either.  I kept getting responses from publishing companies that wanted thousands of dollars for each book.  Yeah right! .

14) Author #14: Dr. Graham Clingbine

No, not really… but sometimes I write something and when I re-read it I do not like it and so I delete that part of the story. I then make changes to what I had originally written.

Stay tuned for the next post. Be sure to follow this website via email to get notified when new posts are being made.

Best regards,

Jasveena

Founder of International Book Promotion

Hello everyone! It’s time to reveal the answers for all 12 questions answered by 12 author participants in the January Group Author Interview, in the 12 genres, 12 authors, 12 months and 12 questions series!

I have to apologize for the delay in posting up the answers for Children’s Book interview series as we previously had two authors pulling out from the interview due to unforeseen circumstances. Nevertheless, we thank them for introducing two other authors for this interview series. But, now we now have not 12, but 14 authors participating in this group author interview.

Yes, I’m breaking the rules for this interview series! While looking for the last author to join us, I had to email a few of them at one go, just to make sure at least one of them gets back to me to complete this interview series. And guess what? I had not one, but THREE authors sending in their submissions at the same time! Can I say no to two of them? Would it be fair? No! So, yes, the more the merrier, I thought. Therefore, let’s welcome 14 authors for this interview series.

The first seven questions are from a ten-year old children’s book reviewer and BookTuber, named Neha Praveen. You can follow her on Twitter at @npstation2018

If you are an author and would like to participate in our upcoming interviews, check out this link, sign up and get your fans to ask their questions to the participating authors! The goal of this author interview is to increase the engagement between readers and authors, and to expose authors to new group of readers.

For more news, book promotion tips and offers, sign up for our newsletter to have the updates delivered right to your inbox.

So, the 3rd question is “How much time do you write in a day? ”

1) Author #1 : Ann Harrison-Barnes

My writing time varies from project to project. Sometimes I may write for a few minutes while riding down the road to pick up my daughter. Yet, there are other days or nights, where I can write for two or three hours without realizing it. It all depends on when the muse hits and I get into my creative zone.

2) Author #2: Samantha Hardin

Completely depends on the day. I work full time as a teacher so I’m often exhausted when I get home. On those nights, I often will be lucky to get thirty minutes in. On weekends, I might spend a few hours working.

3) Author #3: C.J. Rains

I try to write a little bit each day, but that doesn’t always happen, unfortunately. It depends my mood most of the time, and whether my muse shows up on that particular day. lol!

4) Author #4: Padma Venkatraman

It varies. I’m a mom first and foremost, and that takes precedence. I write as much and as often as I can – sometimes just in my head at night after a hectic day when I’m too tired to type.

5) Author #5: Elizabeth Gerlach

I probably write 2-3 times a week – I find I work on one manuscript at a time to finalize it. If I need to do a rewrite, I will take a 2-3 day break and come back to it just to be able to refresh my ideas and disconnect from it for a bit. 

6) Author #6: Cassie Miller

It varies, some days it can be upwards of six hours, but when inspiration eludes me I can go weeks without picking up a pen.

7) Author #7: Charlie Bee

This too depends on children, home, life, work balancing act really! As much as we can.

8) Author #8: Jerry Craft

I also did all of the illustrations for New Kid, so I wrote and sketched simultaneously. There were many days where I started at 8 or 9 AM and finished at 3 AM, stopping only for lunch and dinner and MAYBE a trip to the gym. I’m always writing AND drawing, even if it’s just doing page layouts or thumbnails, so it’s hard for me to separate the two.

9) Author #9: Linda Covella

That varies. It depends on what else I have to do that day. I have a small business with my husband, and I volunteer as a mentor for the local Young Writers Program. So I can spend anywhere from zero to maybe five hours a day writing.

10) Author #10: Tracy K

Depends! I like to write mainly at night when it is quite.

11) Author #11: Beffy Parkin

I put at least five hours aside each day to write, but as I said, ideas can come from anywhere, so I may be making notes in the middle of the night when I’ve got a busy brain!

12) Author #12: Lory Linn

Writing is my full-time job. Sometimes I write pieces for other people also, so it all depends on what I’m working on that day. I usually write at least four hours a day though.

13) Author #13: Karen Magnen

I do not write every day.  I would, but my publisher is overwhelmed trying to get the first seven stories I wrote him illustrated and published, and I promised him I would slow down! A typical children’s story geared for younger kids takes me only about two hours to write.  I did a larger chapter book for 8 – 10 year old children which should be published later this year, and I am currently editing a larger novel for young adults.

14) Author #14: Dr. Graham Clingbine

This is very variable. Sometimes I like to have a break and write nothing at all to refresh my thoughts and ideas. Other times I may write for 5 hours with a few short breaks in-between for a drink or to eat.

Stay tuned for the next post. Be sure to follow this website via email to get notified when new posts are being made.

Best regards,

Jasveena

Founder of International Book Promotion