Raising Independent Young Women and Men

This has been a prevalent thought on my mind today as I have chatted with friends over the internet who are like-minded in the belief that it is important to inspire young girls into becoming strong and independent women who refuse to be labeled or put into a "box."

There are so many shining examples (such as the video link below) of how we need to change our way of thinking if we are to help further the education and mindset from yesterday's thoughts to today's new standards of forward thinking. No longer can we afford to have our children believe that boys are better in math and science than girls or that girls are better in English courses. Girls are just as capable as boys in pursuing their educational goals and vice versa. Girls should not be made to think they are a decoration, but that they are valued for their insight and keen minds.

To the right is a prime example. The picture shows my daughter building a ballista several years ago for her 11th grade Honors Physics class. Although she chose to major in English and Communications, she had the mental fortitude to take Honors and AP math and science courses throughout high school. Had she listened to the old adage of days gone by, she would not have followed through with her desire to pursue this advanced curriculum. Don't limit your child! If you believe in them, they will believe in themselves!

What does your daughter believe?  (Video)

We also can't afford to have young men believe they cannot pursue the art of literature through the written word! Who among us has the right to say that women are better in this scholarly endeavor than men? Is it because society has always dictated it as such? I'm glad that young Christopher Paolini, who began writing Eragon at the age of 15, did not fall prey to this old way of thinking.

As parents, and educators, we have to encourage children to pursue their passion. It is up to them to decide what those ambitions are and not for us to mold them around our own ideas. Inspire a child to be who they are and watch as they blossom into an amazing individual full of potential and confidence.

Whatever path your child chooses--support them! It is also important to encourage them to begin reading at an early age, despite the direction they may head in the future, so that they have the tools they need to succeed. Do not let their potential go untapped. It is our challenge to help bring out the best in our child and see that they reach their highest aspirations!

Free Today - June 26, 2014!

Please help me to promote children's literacy by spreading the news! Today, until midnight, you can download a free Kindle copy of my #1 Amazon Best selling children's mystery book, Dani and the Haunted House!

Dani and the Haunted House has made the #1 position on Amazon's Children's Mysteries & Detectives several times now, and the response from children has been amazing, as has the feedback from parents, grandparents, and teachers! Check out our reviews for yourself!

Why not help support children's literacy by downloading your FREE Kindle copy today? Wouldn't you like to watch your child read a new adventure and share that experience with them? It's easy! All it takes is a few minutes each day, a chapter or two, to help them become avid readers--plus, you get the added benefit of creating lasting memories!

Wishing you all a touch a little adventure,

K. Lamb

Inkspokes: Author Interview

Recently I was asked to give an author interview. I could act nonchalant and tell you it is all in a day's work, but I would rather be honest with you--I was beyond giddy! It was the first time I had been asked to do an interview and  I found the whole experience to be quite exciting from start to finish.

First, a little about my Interviewer. Nelson Suit is one of the Editors at Inkspokes, a website committed to bringing together Indie Authors, Illustrators, and Readers. Nelson is quite the Renaissance Man; he studied History and Literature at Yale, is a practicing attorney, and is an author and illustrator himself. I couldn't believe it when he asked me, a recently published children's author, to give an interview. I was incredibly honored--and grateful--because I realize that opportunities like this don't come along every day!

I hope you will take a moment to read my interview, and to also peruse Inkspokes. They have put together a wonderful collection of articles on the latest happenings in the literary world whether you are someone who is in the industry or just a passionate reader and staunch supporter of the written word. There is something for everyone! I hope you will take the time to find out for yourself.

Wishing you all a little adventure,

K. Lamb

Blessings

Today during a conversation with a friend, which brought a smile to my face and tears to my eyes in the very best of ways, I was reminded of the importance of counting ones blessings. It is something that I try to do on a regular basis as I find that it truly helps put life in perspective and gives one a sense of inner peace.

When was the last time your life felt like it was in balance? I know there was a certain point in my life where it seemed life was managing me, instead of me running my life. I wonder how many of you might be feeling that same way? I understand that it can be a difficult task to balance everything, and I am not saying it is easy--at all--but with a few adjustments you will find that it can be accomplished.

Stop for a moment and take a deep breath. Reflect. What is most important to you? What can you let go of? That is your starting point. Perhaps your priorities might even be changing. Life is constantly evolving, you can't expect the same routine to keep up with this process. Once you take stock of the overall picture you can slowly begin to modify your day-to-day life to meet your new expectations.

You also need to find time for yourself, even if it is only for a few minutes each day. Perhaps it taking time to go to the gym, to get your nails done, or a long walk along the beachfront. Or, one of my favorite things to advocate, reading to your child over a treasured storybook. Find a few calming moments each day to focus on you so that you can clear your mind.

It doesn't happen in a day--trust me--I know. However, if you start looking at your life from a different perspective, making changes as necessary, you will one day find your life in balance. You will be able to see the blessings in your life and find the negativity building up within you subsiding. You will find your inner peace.

Wishing you all a lifetime of serenity,

K. Lamb


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Photo Sources:
http://newhealthalert.net/wp-content/uploads/2013/03/meditation-courses1.jpg
http://i.telegraph.co.uk/multimedia/archive/01356/bedtimestories_1356045c.jpg

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

Your Child's Choices

This may seem like a redundant post, but it is because I get asked quite often the same question:  How can I get my child to love reading?

There is no one answer as each child differs. I can tell you that you have to make the experience about the child, and not about yourself. You may want to steer them to a certain book or genre, but if you really want them to love to read--see what they like without any interference. There will be plenty of times in the years ahead to direct them towards the classics, the Newbery Award winners, or your childhood treasures. Right now, it is about finding out what piques their interest.

Take your child to the library--or better yet--a bookstore! Let them loose, figuratively speaking, and see where they go. Follow close behind, but let them explore. Make going to a bookstore as fun as going to a toy store! When you go to Toys-R-Us, do you tell them what toys to like? Or do you let their natural curiosity lead them to the right toy? It is the same process with books! Tell your child they can pick out one or two of their favorite books to take home and watch as their enthusiasm grows.

It doesn't matter if your child picks up a comic, board book, early chapter book, or recipe book! They have made their decision, which means they are more apt to read the book you purchased. Now don't expect them to read it all on their own. Take a vested interest! Become a part of the process. Discuss the book with them. Answer any questions your child may have, and ask a few of your own! Make reading a bonding experience.

Be sure to create a quiet place to read without distractions. This can be a delightful reading nook just for them, or merely a comfy overstuffed chair like the one in our home. The idea is to have an atmosphere conducive to reading without all the external noise. In time they will learn to tune out the world when they are reading, but in the beginning they need a little help with that.

Continue with this process. As time goes by and your child becomes an avid reader on their own, begin introducing some of the books you would like them to read.  However, never force them to read your choices--that will go down like the Titanic! All you need to do is make them available. They may pick one up right away or it may take months. Eventually, the chances of them reading one of your selections is pretty good.

Believe it or not, if you show interest in what your child is reading they will want to share their adventure with you. They'll even talk to you!  Once a pattern is established it will continue on into their--gasp--teenage years!  All it took was a simple trip to the library or book store as a small child.  It is amazing the doors that books can open up...

Wishing you all a little adventure,

K. Lamb


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Credits:

First Photo: http://www.theguardian.com
Second Photo: http://www.delightfulchildrensbook.com (great source for reading nook ideas!)

Think back to your childhood...

I'd like to ask you to stop for a moment. Relax. Forget about all the thoughts racing through your mind, your busy to-do list, and the kids screaming in the background. Take a moment just for yourself and remember what it was like to be young--a child.

What did you love to do as a kid? Did books play a role in that in any way? How? Did they open up your mind to a world of imagination? I know they did for me.

I learned to love reading as a small child. I never really stood a chance. My grandmother was an avid reader who was passionate about sharing that gift with me. While my dad was busy trying to force me to read Time Magazine--love you, Dad--it was my grandmother who opened up the world of literature for me. I had every book imaginable that could hold my interest. She had a favorite old bookstore where she would buy and trade used books to her heart's content. For me, she was my own personal library!

I was a strange tot.  I loved a mixture of gothic tales and mysteries: of monsters and who-dun-its.  I definitely read books that were not age appropriate at times. I dare say my parents probably would have shuddered if they had known some of the gothic tales my grandmother smuggled me as contraband. Oh, I loved her!

Now, I want you to take it one step further---how did those books influence you? Did they make a difference to you? Did they open up a new world? Did they put your imagination into overdrive?

I spent many an hour reading of vampires and ogres, my cherished contraband, in the peacefulness of my grandparents' home. Aside from these mysterious creatures, I was enamored by Nancy Drew. a much more age appropriate choice. She was an awesome female detective who always found herself in dangerous situations and in a pinch.  I wanted to be her--to solve mysteries of my own. It wasn't surprising when I took on the role of becoming an FBI agent.
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Yes, as a tyke I would run around with a black leather, flip notebook interrogating everyone with my questions. I had my nose into everything. I'm sure at times I was a bit annoying, yet everyone listened patiently to my questions as I set about my quest.  I was out and about to solve whatever mystery I had created in my mind.

Fast forward several decades, where did books take me? Well, I am now a children's author writing about an almost-eight-year old detective named, Dani. Would I have been here today without my childhood adventures? What if I hadn't shared those adventures with my own daughter? Would I have ever written my first book for her?

As you sit and think back---where did your imagination and books take you? How have they changed your life? Are you smiling? I hope so. I hope as you take a look back into yesteryear you are remembering a childhood blessed with adventures.

Now, back to reality. Your child is screaming in the background. Perhaps they want a little attention. Perhaps they are bored. Here is a novel idea--no pun intended--how about reading with them? Share the gift you discovered long ago through the power of books. Help them to find their imagination and the path to their future. Who knows, perhaps they will become part of the next great generation of writers--or an astronaut floating through space discovering unknown worlds.

Wishing you all a little adventure,

K. Lamb

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CREDITS
Dracula Photo Source:  www.blackgate.com
Girl Detective Photo Source: http://strathmorelibrary.ca/