Why Books Matter
Celebrating three years in print!
I've shared with you the trials and tribulations of my path to indie publication -- getting the agent, losing the agent, and reinventing myself by owning my "authorship." Now, I'm thrilled to share a few of the accomplishments and setbacks of my first three years in...
The Ukrainian Identity
When I began writing the Old Rus series, I knew only that I wanted to work with what I thought of as Russian folklore. Vasilisa drew largely on the folk canon of Russian lore, but with Elena the Brave, I dipped into another canon altogether -- the byliny, oral ballads...
Through the Looking Glass: Why “Kid’s Lit” is for Adults
I discovered Through the Looking Glass Book Reviews when I first founded my author imprint and was poking around online, looking for the top children's book blogs. It seemed that Marya Jansen-Gruber's blog showed up on every list. It also invariably showed up on lists...
Ms. Yingling: Getting the Right Book into Kids’ Hands
""Ms. Yingling is the librarian at Blendon Middle School. Her daily mission is to find the right book for the right student at the right time." So states the Blendon Middle School website, and there is no better way to introduce this librarian and book reviewer whose...
Outsider DNA
This is how it begins. You’ve just gotten the call – your dream agent loves your book. After years of steady effort, you are on your way! The two of you get down to work – reviewing, revising, refining – until you both love the product, and it’s time to go live. The...
Sneak Peek! First Draft of Chapter 1: Elena the Brave
The sequel to Vasilisa is coming next fall! Elena the Brave picks up the story with Vasilisa and Ivan's daughter, Elena, who is destined for more adventure. Spoiler -- if you like dragons, this book is for you! This is a first draft of chapter one, but I like it, so...
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