Meet Dani P. Spinelli #kidlit #mystery #iartg

Wow, here I am again on another blog hop! I love participating in blog tours because it allows me the opportunity to show you who I am as a writer. This particular article excites me because I get to introduce you, in depth, to my sweet and sassy, little protagonist. 

Before I move on, let me take a moment to introduce you to the children's author that invited me on to this particular blog hop. Her name is Kimberly Sentek, and she is the author of Oh Brother!: A Nico and Tugger Tale, which is available on Amazon in paperback or Kindle. Aside from the two of us sharing a passion for children's literature, we have another commonality: We both love the group Bon Jovi! 

Kimberly has spent her entire life telling stories--so much so that her parents swear she was born talking. A lifelong resident of New Jersey, Kimberly is owned by two cockapoos, Nico and Tugger. Her first book was inspired by them, and she is currently working on a second book featuring her two furry children.

To learn more about Kim and her pups, please hop on over to her blog at: Kimberly Sentek.

Your can also connect with her at:www.kimberlysentek.com
@kimberlysentek on TwitterOn Facebook

Buy the book at:
Amazon
Barnes and Noble
iTunes Interactive App of the Book

Meet Dani P. Spinelli: The Best Almost-Eight-Year-Old Detective in the World

What is the name of your character?

My main character's full name is Danielle Pippi Spinelli, however everyone calls her Dani. When she's in trouble, which is a lot of the time, her parents and friends will call her Dani P. 

When and where is the story set?

My story takes place in the sleepy, tourist town of Shady Hollow. It is a small, quaint town that hosts antique stores and sidewalk cafes in the heart of the community, while still maintaining a mall and amusement park on the outskirt of its borders. It is a mix of modern day times and a throwback to days gone by. 

What should we know about her?

Dani loves to solve mysteries. She's earned the reputation of being "the best almost-eight-year-old detective in the world" according to her uncle, Sheriff Spinelli, and she has become the youngest deputy in the history of Shady Hollow, and probably everywhere else, too!

Dani doesn't fit into any particular mold, and she doesn't want to! She's quirky, sassy, and sweet all rolled up into one. She's not afraid to stand up for herself or for her friends. You'll never find someone as loyal as her in a time of need. She can run the gamut emotionally. There's definitely no hiding when she's mad or happy; her face says it all. She is fearless and determined, which leads her into more mischief than she bargains for most of the time. Does that sometimes place her into dangerous situations? Absolutely! But with a smart head on her shoulder, she always manages to find a way out of trouble. Well, until she get home and then she finds herself in a different kind of trouble! 

What messes up her life?

The two biggest obstacle Dani faces are her own rash decisions at times and being grounded by her parents. Although she tries her best to come up with intelligent, well thought out plans, they always seem to go a little awry---leading her, and her best friend, into a heap of misfortune. But, what can you expect? She's only seven. Of course, that puts her in the predicament of having to explain to her parents why she was caught in a burning, haunted house or being captured by jewels thieves. 

What is the personal goal of your character?

This is one of the easiest questions yet: To fight injustice! Dani wants to solve crime and make sure all is right with the world. She wants to prove to everyone that age shouldn't matter when it comes to doing the right thing. She may be small, but she's mighty! If she can make difference, she'll stop at nothing to prove her cause. 

Is there a working title for this novel, and can we read more about it? 

Dani P. Mystery is the name of the series. To date, two books have been published and they have both earned Readers' Favorite 5-star ratings. The first book released in December 2013 on Amazon and has become a best seller in Children's Detectives. The second book, Dani and the Mall Caper was released in May 2013. There are several places you can find out more about the series. You can visit the Dani P. Mystery website, her official Facebook page, Twitter, my Amazon author page, or peruse the articles on my blog!

Do you want to know a little more more about the Editorial Review done by Readers' Favorite? Here's what they had to say:

• "The friendship between the two girls and their different personalities add more vigor to the plot and their realistic portrayal lends credibility to the events."
• "The story is well crafted from the beginning to the end."
• "The interactive questions at the end of the story will interest kids."
• "It is a good book for children and perfect to be kept in school libraries."
• "The plot is intelligent and creative and makes for a fun read."

Inkspoke.com recently published a stellar Editorial Review on their online site stating:

• Dani and the Mall Caper is a book that should be shared with young kids. It’s one of those books for early grades that one comes across only once in a long while, something that is not only a well-crafted and well-written story but a story that instills important values about grit, determination and friendship. The warm and likeable characters, dialogue and plot-line will inspire young readers to read (and perhaps write). The book is also a fun one for a parent, teacher or caretaker to share with a younger child. It’s a gem within the rich tradition of kids’ detective books.

When can we expect new books to be published?

I am concurrently working on the next two books in the series. Dani and the Rocking Horse Ranch, Book 3, is currently being illustrated while I do the final rewrites before submitting to my Editor for final review. I am also working on Dani and the Hidden Treasure, Book 4. I am excited to bring these new books to Dani's readers. However, I do not yet have a firm release date. Please be sure to follow my website or Facebook for more up-to-date information. I will let you in on a little secret:  Dani's Facebook page always hears the news first! She'd love it if you'd like her page and follow along! 

Thanks for "hopping" on over and learning more about Dani P. Spinelli. She may be a handful, but her charming smile and goofy antics will melt your heart every time.

Before you leave, I'd love to introduce you to some additional authors who are passionate about writing and their characters. I'm sure you'll enjoy meeting them as much as I have.

Wishing you all a little mystery & adventure,

K. Lamb

CAT MICHAELS:

Is a writer, small-space gardener, devoted auntie, and digital dabbler who started writing stories in fourth grade and hasn’t stopped since. 

She spins tales of everyday life, with a twist of magic or mayhem, that open young minds to new ways of looking at the world.  She spent more than two decades helping students from kindergarten to college overcome the challenges of learning disabilities and Asperger’s syndrome.  Her books encourage students to use their imagination and problem-solving skills while enjoying and interacting with a story.

Watercolor artist Irene A. Jahns illustrates Cat's Sweet T tales, a series of chapter books for early readers about the adventures of three sisters.  Book 1, Sweet T and the North Wind, is available in print and will debut as an e-book in winter 2014. Book 2, Finding Fuzzy, a You-Decide Tale of a Lost Friend,  where children write or draw the story’s ending, earned second place honors in the Purple Dragonfly Book Award.  Both books received the Readers’ Favorite five-star review and are available on Amazon @http://goo.gl/vF2kcn 

website: www.catmichaelswriter.com
twitter: @CatMichaelsBook      

Marko Kitti:

Is a Finnish-born author who currently lives in East Sussex, England. He has been writing fiction since 2001 and his Finnish publications include two collections of short stories, two novels for adult readers, and one novel for young adult readers. 

In May 2014 Marko released his first children's book written in the English language. Jesper Jinx is the first of the series of books to feature an eleven-year-old Jesper; a determined, action-seeker and probably the unluckiest person in all of Puffington Hill. 

Find out more about Marko Kitti and his literary works on his website, Amazon author page, or Twitter account. His blog will be available to read on September 29th.

...and my dear friend, Laura Lee Scott:

Born and raised in Edina, Minnesota, Laura Lee Scott checks in with over 20 years of experience as a professional writer. Although The Santa Switch isn't the first children's book she's written, it's her first "solo" project as a children's author. Says Laura, who now lives in West Linn, Oregon with her family: "My hope is that this unique book -- and the subsequent series that's currently in the works -- will bring a modern Jessica Claus to life, and, in so doing, create a strong, positive female role model for children. I think the time is long overdue that Santa's wife be thought of as an icon to admire, know, and love, alongside her world-famous husband. Fortunately, I was lucky enough to find Cheryl to help me bring her to life. I can't imagine doing this book series without her!"

Learn more about Laura on her website, Amazon author page, or on Twitter. Her blog will be available on September 29th. 

Blogging from the Heart Tour

I am extremely excited to be participating in the Blogging from the Heart Tour. When a friend and colleague announced she was looking for some of her "writerly" friends to participate in a blog tour with her, I of course, jumped on the opportunity. I have been so busy of late she responded with a bit of surprise. However, what is a writer to do if not write? 

First I would like to tell you a little about my friend, Cat Michaels. She is a talented children's author who started writing in fourth grade and she hasn't stopped since. After earning an M.S. degree in special education from the University of Kansas, she spent two decades helping students from kindergarten to college reach their potential.  She also worked in the private sector and managed communication and staff development programs for an international high-tech firm.  However, she returned to her educational roots, serving at a community college as a writing coach for students with Asperger’s syndrome and learning disabilities. 

Cat builds on her teaching experiences to write illustrated chapter books for young readers of all abilities to develop imagination and critical thinking skills.  Watercolor illustrations by Irene A. Jahns help bring the stories to life.  Cat's books, Sweet T and the North Wind and Finding Fuzzy: a You-Decide Tale of a Lost Friend, can be found on Amazon and ordered from local bookstores.

I encourage you to reach out and connect with Cat on her website: catmichaelswriter.com

We were all given the same four questions to answer so if you have been following the tour, you will already be familiar with them. However, I am looking forward to sharing my own experiences and giving you a deeper look into who I am as a writer.  

1.  What am I working on?  

It has been full-speed ahead as I sometimes find myself holding on to the thrilling roller coaster ride that has become my life. With its ups and downs, twists and turns, I sometimes don't know if I am coming or going. Suffice to say, it has definitely not been boring! 

Since the release of my first children's book Dani and the Haunted House was released in December 2013, it has become an Amazon Best Seller in Children's Detectives, keeping company with my childhood favorites: Nancy Drew and the Hardy Boys. It has been an awe inspiring journey and humbling experience, all rolled into one. 

In May, I released Dani and the Mall Caper, which is the second book in the series. At the moment I am working on the re-writes of my third book, Dani and the Rocking Horse Ranch. Soon I will begin the task of formatting the Kindle and paperback. The fourth book is already well underway, and the fifth book is currently on my storyboard.

Aside from preparing my third book for release, I am also working with a new illustrator to completely re-design my sweet & sassy protagonist, Dani P. Spinelli. It has been an amazing experience to see the "re-birth" of Dani. My illustrator, Katrina Glidewell, has been an absolute joy as we work hand-in-hand creating the new look. I love each piece of concept art I receive and I think as an author when you find someone who is willing to commit to your project and understands that your "character" is more than just mere words on a page, it truly helps the creative process.  

I have not yet begun the marketing phase of my books as I wanted to wait until I had three books in the series before attempting that next step. I am eagerly looking forward to that process. In the meantime, I have enjoyed connecting with readers and building Dani's reader base. 

*Breaking News:  As of this morning, September 5th, Reader's Favorite has rated Dani and the Haunted House 5 Stars, stating, "The friendship between the two girls and their different personalities add more vigor to the plot and their realistic portrayal lends credibility to the events...The plot is intelligent and creative and makes for a fun read."

Reader's Favorite has also granted Dani and the Mall Caper 5 stars as well, stating, "The writing style is so fluid that the plot moves smoothly. It is educational in that kids are introduced to new words which will help them improve their vocabulary. The best part in both the volumes is the friendship between Dani and her friend Chloe. Both of them are different personalities but the bond they share is strong. The combination of mystery, humor and fun works well here. The story is well crafted from the beginning to the end. It gives proper messages to kids and is also about a friendship in which both girls complement each other very well."

2.  How does your work differ from others?

We all have our different styles, viewpoints, and ideas when it comes to creativity so I believe we all do ourselves an injustice when we start to compare. I feel it is more important to support one another and celebrate each person's individuality and style. As I love to say, Books are like ice cream; there is a flavor for everyone. We need diversity to satisfy the many different readers searching for their idea of the perfect book.

I can tell you the key points I find important when I write. I want my characters to be believable; they have real emotion and feelings. They are not perfect and they are allowed to be quirky. In other words, they have their faults and eccentricities. Dani is often accused of being "weird" by her friends because of her off-the-wall remarks. My characters are also allowed to run the gamut from happiness to anger. I am trying to show that we don't all have to come from the same perfect world. I think it is important for kids to recognize that it is okay to be a little different, love who they are as individuals, and embrace it. 

Another key point is that I always try and provide some kind of lesson in what I hope to be an innocuous manner. Now I have read material where they say this is taboo. Oh, well! Again, it is my concept of writing and who I want to be as an indie child's writer when it comes to this series. I believe it is important to instill lessons into a child and if we can present that to our children in a fun, entertaining way it will hopefully resonate within them and they will learn how to deal with possible real-world situations. 

Finally, I love placing challenge words into the series! Children are so much brighter than we sometimes give them credit for and I believe they have the capacity to learn and expand their vocabulary at a much faster rate than we push them to achieve. Children have a natural curiosity and it is up to us to provide content that stimulates their minds.

3. Why do I write?

I have always enjoyed the process of putting words to paper or clacking on the keyboard. Over the years I have written for my own personal enjoyment. I like creating young adult works. The reason I write for children is simple—it is a gift of love. It all started with a quirky, honey-brown haired girl with a smile that charmed and whose laughter rang out generously. This old soul who always thought of others became my protagonist. To be honest, despite my strong belief in children's literacy, I never thought to release a children's book. It just happened. I always thought I would publish one of my young adult books. When the challenge was put to me to step out of my comfort zone and realize my dream, my first instinct was to turn to my daughter and the story I had specifically written for her. It struck me that I had the opportunity to promote children's literacy and publish one of my stories. 

It is my hope that other children will enjoy the Dani P. Mystery series. I want it to reach their adventurous side as they cheer Dani on and relate to what she is going through whether they be good times or rocky ones. I want them to know her as a friend who will be there, hidden within the pages of a book, when they need her. I have not been disappointed. Each time I receive a photo or letter from a child (via their parents or teacher) it touches my heart in a way that is hard to explain. It is profound. Their letters can bring a tear to my eye, a chuckle, or outright laugh. They make all of the hard work worth it. And trust me, being an indie author is not a simple task especially when it is not your primary occupation. Bringing a book from concept to completion is a huge time vortex and working into the wee hours of the morning is a regular occurrence.

As I think most children's authors would tell you, writing for children is not about making money.The picture/early chapter book market is a small niche that is extremely hard to capitalize on. Therefore, any author going into this market cannot realistically bank on making a living out of selling their books.I'm not saying it is impossible, but the facts do present a more negative outlook. This reasoning leads to only one conclusion: Children's authors write because they love what they do. They want to share the gift of literature with children. What better legacy can you give a child than to take them on a magical journey? Plus, the skill sets they learn by reading will last them a lifetime.

One of my proudest accomplishments to date is the number of free Kindle downloads I have been able to offer in an effort to help promote children's literacy. Since December 2013, I have donated over 2,200 copies of Dani and the Haunted House. I have also forged relationships with teachers and I have "adopted" and donated paperback books for their classrooms as well. When students write to me, or any child, I will respond to their letters. I believe that if a child is invested enough in an author's book to write, then the least we can do is offer them a response. 

If it were financially possible, I would give away the entire Dani P. Mystery series. Alas, it is not. Except for the classes I adopt, the first book is the only one I have been able to donate on a regular basis as the series does need to be viable and sustain itself in the future in order for it to continue.  With that said, I will continue to lend my support to as many teachers as possible. In addition, I will have regularly scheduled Kindle giveaways of the first book in the series. As the to the remaining books in the series, although impossible for me to give them all away, I will keep them at the lowest possible price-point in my effort to be a part of promoting children's literacy and helping to create the next generation of voracious readers! 

4.  How does my writing process work? 

I could go on and on about this topic—oh, wait—I already have! This is a question that delves far more deeply into an author's work than can be answered in a paragraph or two. It is why when I was asked in the past about this subject, I started an entire series entitled An Inside Look at a Working Indie Author that can be found here on my blog. I'd like to invite you all to read about my experiences as an author. The series is not yet concluded, because I am still on my journey. I will be continuing to blog on this topic as I move forward. I can tell you the past two years have been a string of lessons, filled with highs and lows, and many challenges. All of which I would not change. I would do every bit of it again without hesitation. The reward far exceeds any obstacle thrown my way. It is all about perspective and what you want out of life. When faced with adversity and I find myself two steps backwards, I choose to put a smile on my face and take the next step forward. In truth, in my mind I have already succeeded in my goals. What transpires from here is truly a gift that I shall embrace. 

Before signing off, Dani wanted me to be sure to give all of her readers a great big "thank you!" She thinks her readers are "awesupendous!"

I would also like to thank you for joining me on my portion of the Blogging from the Heart Tour. I'd also like to offer everyone a free download of Dani and the Haunted House on Tuesday, September 9th, on Amazon. 


Wishing you all a little mystery & adventure,

K. Lamb

If you would like to learn more about the Dani P. Mystery series or purchase one of Dani's adventures on Kindle or in paperback, you can find us at:

Dani P. Mystery's website
Dani P. Mystery Official Facebook Page
Dani and the Haunted House on Amazon
Dani and the Mall Caper on Amazon


Next up on the tour is:

Faith Cotter is an award-winning writer and editor whose background includes reporting for one of Pennsylvania’s premiere newspapers, the Pittsburgh Post-Gazette; sleuthing through boxes of legal documents while writing for The Innocence Institute of Point Park University; authoring a thesis on Harry Potter; and a job as an editor for Technology Publishing Company, where she learned more than she ever thought she would about the intricacies of applying paint to incredibly large structures. She is currently working as a freelance editor, and will graduate with a Master of Arts in Professional Writing from Chatham University in 2015. 

She has a lot of experience helping other people tell their stories. Now she's telling her own. Clara is the very first piece of fiction she’s published, and the narrative essay Paper Dragons followed shortly after.

Faith’s stories explore the connection of relics to the past and the future, as well as the ephemeral nature of memory, ideology, and emotion—with what she hopes are an endearing cast of characters tossed into the mix. Two more short stories, titled The Bone Daughter and Communion, will be out within the year.

She’s been teaching archery for five years and is pretty good with a bow when she has her glasses on. She has a recurve named The Everdeen and eventually wants to combine her love of archery with her love of horseback riding—if she can find a riding instructor who will let her.

Websites: 

Author Page: Wordpress: www.faithcotter.wordpress.com (On tour 09/12/14)

Portfolio: http://faithc3865.wix.com/faithcotter

Editing Services: http://selfpublishersshowcase.com/author-resources/inkspill-editing/

Twitter: @FaiththeWriter

Willy Robbins is aspiring to write children's books. Each of her books will support children in their quest to solve problems they may face when their imaginations run wild. Her love for reading began at a young age, and as a teacher she continues to spread the joys of reading to her students. After hearing the true encounter of a young man who thought there was a troll in his closet, she was compelled to write In My Closet.  Visit her blog at: Willyrobbins34.blogspot.com (On tour 09/19/14)

Nelson Suit is the author of the Tilley Pond Mouse adventure series for middle grade readers. The series currently comprises of three books: Els Oot and the Mapmaker, Els Oot and the Baby Dragon and recently released Els Oot and the Lost City (all available on Amazon). Nelson’s children’s books chronicle the adventures of Els the mouse as he journeys into the wilderness beyond Tilley Pond and discovers some unlikely friendships, danger and, most of all, wonder. The stories are in the tradition of classic animal stories such as Kenneth Grahame’s The Wind in the Willows or George Seldon’s The Cricket in Time Square. They revolve around imaginative play and the wonder of wild spaces. More about Nelson Suit and his writing may be found on his author website at Wordcaper.com.
(On tour 09/19/14)

The Chocolate Book Tour

How do you choose six books in which to speak of out of a lifetime?  Sometimes you just have to break the rules and go one step farther...

If you think it is easy, you might be surprised!  I found it to be a truly difficult task. I knew I wanted to focus on children's books since promoting children's literacy is such an important cause in my life. All of the books listed are ones I read as a child, with the exception of The Giver. There is also an adult book I wanted to share. You might be surprised by that choice, but it is one that still remains in my dresser today.  

Before I delve into my choices of chocolates and books, I first want to thank author and illustrator, Nelson Suit, for asking me to join him on the tour. I am honored he wanted to include me.  Nelson is the author of Els Oot and the Mapmaker and Els Oot and the Baby Dragon.  Nelson also pens the blog On Tilley Pond and is an editor at Inkspoke.com. When he is not busy writing and expanding the minds of today's youth, he is busy practicing law. I am sure you will enjoy the literary offerings and sites of this talented artist and writer.

Now on to my tasty tidbits of chocolate and literary delights...

NANCY DREW MYSTERY SERIES - CAROLYN KEENE

There probably isn't any series that I enjoyed more as a youngster than the Nancy Drew mysteries. Nancy was a strong, independent force to be reckoned with and wasn't about to let anyone stand in her way or push her aside. If there was a problem, she had the solution! She was a wonderful role model for young girls, despite her knack for getting herself into dangerous situations. 

Considering all the intrigue she found herself mixed up in, there is only one chocolate that could possibly represent her:  Ghiradelli's Midnight Reverie.  It is vibrant and intense, just like like our daring sleuth! 

THE DIARY OF ANNE FRANK - ANNE FRANK

I would be remiss if I did not include Anne Frank: The Diary of a Young Girl. This incredibly sad story was written by a young girl who was forced to hide in an attic annex for two years in the 1940s when Germans invaded the Netherlands.  Her words will touch your very soul as you read the loneliness she endured in her young life. Caught up in a world of chaos with only a small window to give her comfort in an otherwise dismal existence, she wrote in her diary and forever left her legacy to the world.  

I chose a dark chocolate mousse with a chocolate graham cracker crumble. The dark chocolate is to represent the bitterness of the times, the silkiness of the mousse in honor of her spirit, and the crumbliness of the graham crackers to reflect how her life slipped away.    


RED BADGE OF COURAGE - STEPHEN CRANE

Stephen Crane's The Red Badge of Courage definitely had to make my list of books for children, and adults, to read.  I'm not so sure it is a popular choice in today's world, but it is one that deserves to be read. 

I liked this book because it was gritty and talked about subjects that weren't routinely discussed with children. Bravery and courage are something that need to be encouraged and nurtured. We all wonder how we will respond in a time of crisis. This book is the perfect opportunity for parents and children to discuss the inner turmoil building up in their young lives and to help create an open dialog.  

The perfect accompaniment to this book would be a Hershey's Krackle.  Just the name reminds me of the crack of gunfire that surrounded young Henry Fleming.  Again, the grittiness of the crisped rice seems appropriate because all does not go effortlessly with his inner conflict, until he takes the flag in hand and comes to terms with the true meaning of the word "courage," at which point the chocolate blends in with the roughness of the bar to bring about a smooth conclusion.  

LITTLE WOMEN - LOUISA MAY ALCOTT

Growing up I always loved reading about this time period. It was a harsh time in history, yet romantic to a young girl. The dynamic between the sisters kept the story captivating, and there is some relationship between the characters that everyone can relate to. I'm sure it is not a stretch of anyone's imagination to know that I found myself akin to Joe.  I loved her spirit and sass, her desire to become a writer, and her love story. 

To me, Little Women, is most like a Snickers bar.  It has the caramel goodness of joyful times, the peanuts to represent their arduous journey over symbolic rough roads, and then the creamy nougat of the homecoming that awaits them all as they come together in the end. 

THE GIVER - LOIS LOWRY

I truly enjoyed reading this book when my daughter was in grammar school. For her, it was a school assignment. For me, it was just following a pattern we had gotten into. I liked reading the same books as my daughter so we could discuss them. It helped her to really think about the books and what she was reading, and I loved the insight she could provide in how she interpreted the stories from a child's perspective. 

This book is about a society where memories are forgotten--put away, and only seen and felt by one individual, "The Giver." The members of society feel no joy, nor pain. They live a life without options or choice.  Young Jonas has followed suit up until his twelfth birthday when he is set to become the new Giver. Once he starts receiving memories he realizes their world is not all that it seems, but envisions what could be.

I paired this book with Ethel M's raspberry creme in dark chocolate because it is symbolic to young Jonas' discovery that life can hold amazing richness and color when the outer protective shell is broken. 

CHARLOTTE'S WEB - E.B. WHITE

I grew up as a rough and tumble "barn rat."  It was a term of endearment that was bestowed upon all the little kids by the adults at the stables where my pony was kept. I have so many wonderful memories of hanging out with my best friend, Maple City Man of the Hour, or just Maple for short.  I felt an instant connection and familiarity when reading Charlotte's Web. It is a timeless storybook of friendship, and ultimately, loss.  Besides, it had a talking pig and a spider that can spell! What kid wouldn't love that? I know I sure did! 

I'm not quite sure why I chose Mounds as a representation for this book. I think it is because the dark chocolate and coconut go together so well, like Wilbur and Charlotte. It just seems like a natural combination of goodness. 

LITTLE GOLDEN BOOKS DUMBO - WALT DISNEY

Anyone that has ever read my blog will probably guess what the #1 book on my list will be.  It goes back to my early childhood and is one of my absolute favorites. You may at first wonder why until you learn the reason behind it. It is the Little Golden Book's Dumbo.

The reason this book tops my list, despite its simplicity, is because it evokes such strong emotion in me.  I was lucky enough to grow up living next to my grandmother who bestowed her love of literature onto me.  This is the first book I can recall from my early childhood, besides my big red book of nursery rhymes that weighed as much as me. Each time I spent the night at my grandparents I could count on the same bedtime routine. My grandmother would lovingly ask me what book I wanted her to read, which was always Dumbo, and afterwards as she tucked the covers snugly around me she would sing Mr. Bluebird On Your Shoulder and give me a kiss goodnight.  I ask you, how could this not be the number one book on my list?  

I would definitely say this book defines the very essence of a Reese's Peanut Butter Cup. The way the chocolate wraps around the peanut butter as a blanket does a small child, keeping everything safe inside.  Yes, a peanut butter cup is definitely my choice for this delightful children's book that holds so many endearing memories for me. Plus, Dumbo loves peanuts! 

ADDITIONAL MUST-READ CHILDREN & YOUNG ADULT BOOKS:

As I concluded the children's section I found myself wanting to add book after book, but then this blog would never end. Even as I posted my additional must-reads above, there were so many books that I had wished I had added to it! There is such a plethora of wonderful literary options available today from timeless classics to new treasured tales. I hope that with everything that is available in today's marketplace that you will help your child find a book that is their "perfect fit" and read with them today! 

THE ULTIMATE GIFT - JIM STOVALL

Let's shake things up a bit and talk about an adult book, although I firmly believe that children's books aren't just for children! I want to set the record straight on that one. 

I received this book as a gift. I guess I should explain. I work as an office manager for a busy commercial real estate office. One day, years ago, a client came in carrying three books. Typically this client was all-business with a "lets get to it" mentality. Although always pleasant, he was a busy man with a hectic schedule. So his composure that day took me a little by surprise. He had dropped his business facade and stood before me almost humbled. He then held out a book to me, The Ultimate Gift, by Jim Stovall. He explained that he had received it as a gift himself, and after reading it, he promptly bought copies for all of his employees and business associates because it had greatly moved him. I remember thinking to myself, "Wow, this book must be awesome."  That night I sat down and read it cover-to-cover. I have to say, I agreed with him. There was something about this book that moved me as well. I loved the morality of it, the message it contained, and the heart within this book.  I will admit, I bought a dozen copies of the book myself and handed them out that year to loved ones.

The premise of the book is about a young man, Jason Stevens, who expects to inherit millions of dollars from a deceased relative. Unfortunately for him, or so he thinks, before he can collect those funds he must learn several "Life Lessons." The book goes on to teach these lessons in story form. It is very well crafted so that you don't feel like you are being preached at while you read the book.

I knew instantaneously what I would pair with this book because it seemed so obvious: This book could only be a cup of soul-soothing, hot chocolate.  It warms you from the inside out. This is a book to be read by all, in my humble opinion.  You may be surprised at what you learn from it, and about yourself. 

COMING UP ON THE TOUR - JUNE 21ST:

C.L. Murphy is an award winning author and illustrator of the children's picture book series THE ADVENTURES OF LOVABLE LOBO. She says she's having the time of her life creating, sharing and being apart of the kid lit world. What a PACK of peeps they are, where everyday is an adventure! blog link: http://lovablelobo.wordpress.com

Jamie Stevens is an author, illustrator and developer of Peep’s Spring Surprise, an interactive preschool storybook app. Peep is a bird of few words. Actually just one word, “Peep.” That doesn’t stop Peep, along with his friends, Piper and Penny, as they jump with the rabbits, hug huge fluffy sheep and find hidden eggs. Jamie is currently working on the second storybook app in her Peep and Friends series and also plans on offering the preschool series in print.  Jamie can most often be found on her Facebook account, so you can find her Chocolate Book Blog post at: http://www.facebook.com/PeepandFriends

Cat Michaels started writing stories in fourth grade and hasn’t stopped since.  After earning an M.S. degree in special education from the University of Kansas, she spent two decades helping students from kindergarten to college reach their potential.  She also worked in the private sector and managed communication and staff development programs for an international high-tech firm.  However, she returned to her education roots, serving at a community college as a writing coach for students with Asperger’s syndrome and learning disabilities. 

Cat builds on her teaching experiences to write illustrated chapter books for young readers of all abilities to develop imagination and critical thinking skills.  Watercolor illustrations by Irene A. Jahns help bring the stories to life.  Cat's books, Sweet T and the North Wind and Finding Fuzzy: a You-Decide Tale of a Lost Friend, can be found on Amazon and ordered from local bookstores.

To connect with Cat, please visit her website:  http://goo.gl/9ROOAQ

Last, but certainly not least, is my friend Geena Bean. Geena graduated from Rutgers University in 2003 with a degree in English. Over the past ten years, she has been working within the nanny industry while trying to fulfill her dream of becoming a full-time children's author. Her first picture book, Come Back Dear Sun, was published in January, 2013. Since then, she has been writing other children's literature stories, visiting elementary schools and independent bookstores throughout New Jersey, and further establishing herself with the children's book industry. Her second picture book will be released in the winter of 2015. Please visit Geena's blog at:  Geena Bean, Children's Book Author.

Thank you for joining me on the tour.  Before I go, I would like to encourage you to be a mentor--read to a child and make a difference in their life!  

Wishing you all a little adventure,

K.  Lamb