EARTHBOUND AND UNTHINKABLE GIVEAWAY AND ASK THE EXPERT INTERVIEW

Hi Everyone! Hope you're having a great Monday. I'm off today so it's a great day.

First I have winners to announce.

The winner of THE POWER OF TWO is Mary Preston!

The winner of LET THE SKY FALL is Steph!

The winner of  EXILE is Brenda!

Congrats! E-mail me your address so I can send you your books. Please e-mail me by the end of Wednesday or I'll have to pick another winner.

Today I’m excited to have Magnolia here for an ASK THE EXPERT interview. Magnolia is a 7th grader who likes to read a lot. Her mother was my critique partner until she moved. Sob. Sob.

Hi Magnolia. Thanks so much for joining us.

1. Please tell us a little bit about yourself, your school, and what you like to read. Does your mom influence what you read?

Hi, my name is Magnolia Mugele. I am in 7th grade and I go to Westlane Middle School in Indianapolis Indiana. I am a huge reader! I read all types of genres but I have to say I normally go for YA books. I think my mom definitely influences this because her shelves are filled with these types of books. So when I'm looking for something to read, this is the biggest selection I have.

2. Yeah, I bet your mom has some great choices for you. She used to suggest books to me too when she lived here. How do you find out about the books you read? What about new books coming out?

My biggest book news resource is my mom. Being a writer she always know what is good and what isn't. She also know my taste in books very well so she knows what to suggest to me.

3. Awesome how your mom is a great resource. I tell Anna Li about books too. What are you reading now? What books are you waiting to be released?

Right now I am reading Legend by Marie Lu. I like this book a lot. I am currently waiting for the tenth book in the Night World series to come out (this is my favorite series). Once I read one book in a series I have to buy read them all.

4. So cool you’re reading Legend. I can’t wait to read Champion, the last book in her series. Do you buy most of your book or get them at the library? How often do go to a bookstore?

I'd have to say I get my books from the library. At my school reading is a required class, so I am always going down to the library to pick up new book. but we do go to the bookstore at least once a month, and every time I try to buy something.

5. I love the library! It’s a great place to find great books. Do you read any teen book blogs, author blogs, or author or publisher websites? Become a fan of an author on Facebook? Why?

I visit my favorite author's (l.J. Smith) website often. I like to check up on when she comes out with new books.

6. That’s cool you visit your favorite author’s website. Has your teacher recommended any blogs or websites to your class or to you?

My reading teacher loves the author Gary Paulsen and is always recommending anything by him or showing us contests he has.

7. That’s a great idea for teachers to share their favorite author websites with their students. Are there things your favorite authors could do that would make you more likely to visit their website, their blog, or become a fan on Facebook?

Well the main reason I visit an author’s website is to check up on books. When I read a book in a series and I know another one will come out I love to know where it's at, whether being released soon or being put off for a while.

8. That’s nice that you care enough to keep on top of their book releases. Have any authors visited your school? Who? Is there anything you’d recommend that an author do to make their presentation more interesting to you and other kids at your school?

Not that I can remember. But if an author ever did come to my school I would probably be very excited. The thing that I think would most interest kids in an author is if they were very easy to relate to. If a character in their books had the same problems as a 7th grader did, it would more interesting to read.

Hope an author comes to your school one of these days. Thanks for sharing all your advice, Magnolia.

Now onto my giveaways. These are two great ARCs I received from Penguin. I’ve heard great things about them both and want to pass them on while they’re fairly recent. I just don’t have time to read them right now.

First, there’s EARTHBOUND. I really hope I find time to read this. I just added it to my library wish list. Here’s a blurb from Goodreads:

Tavia Michaels is the sole survivor of the plane crash that killed her parents. When she starts to see strange visions of a boy she’s never spoken with in real life, she begins to suspect that there’s much about her past that she isn’t being told.

Tavia immediately searches for answers, desperate to determine why she feels so drawn to a boy she hardly knows. But when Tavia discovers that the aunt and uncle who took her in after her parents' death may have actually been responsible for the plane crash that killed them--and that she may have been the true intended victim--she flees for the safety of Camden, Maine, where the boy she sees in her visions instructs her to go.

Now, Tavia is on the run with no one to trust. No one, that is, except for her best friend and longtime crush, Benson.

Tavia feels torn between the boy who mysteriously comes to her at night and the boy who has been by her side every step of the way. But what Tavia doesn't know is that the world is literally falling apart and that to save it she will have to unite with the boy in her visions. Only problem? To do so would mean rejecting Benson's love. And that's the one thing Tavia Michaels swore she'd never do.

And I’ve added this to my list too. Here’s a blurb of UNTHINKABLE from Goodreads:

This much anticipated sequel to the New York Times Bestseller Impossible a fantasy full of suspense,

mystery, and romance will appeal to fans of Beautiful Creatures, Raven Boys, and Wicked Lovely.

Fenella was the first Scarborough girl to be cursed, hundreds of years ago, and she has been trapped in the faerie realm ever since, forced to watch generations of daughters try to break this same faerie curse that has enslaved them all. But now Fenella’s descendant, Lucy, has accomplished the impossible and broken the curse, so why is Fenella still trapped in Faerie?

In her desperation, Fenella makes a deal with the faerie queen: If she can accomplish three acts of destruction, she will be free, at last, to die. What she doesn't realize is that these acts must be aimed at her own family and if she fails, the consequences will be dire, for all of the Scarborough girls.

How can she possibly choose to hurt her own cherished family not to mention the new man whom she’s surprised to find herself falling in love with? But if she doesn’t go through with the tasks, how will she manage to save her dear ones?

Thanks to Penguin for ARCs of EARTHBOUND and UNTHINKABLE for my giveaways. To enter, all you need to do is be a follower (just click the follow button if you’re not a follower) and leave a comment telling me what book you’d like through November 23th. I’ll announce the winner on November 25th. If your e-mail is not on your Google Profile, please leave it in the comments.

If you mention this contest on Twitter, Facebook, or your blog, mention this in the comments and I'll give you an extra entry. You must be 13 or older to enter. This is for US/Canada residents only.

Here’s what’s coming up:

On Wednesday I have a big Indie giveaway. I'll have lots of great book choices by our followers. I'll also be announcing a new feature to help all of my followers on their writing journey and will be asking for some advice on promoting our Indie authors.

On Friday I'll be doing a Gratitude Giveaway Hop. I'll have lots of great choices of YA books I've either read or am dying to read.

Next Monday I’m interviewing debut author and follower Crystal Collier and giving away a copy of MOONLESS,, her fantasy she describes as “Jane Eyre meets supernatural.”

Then next Wednesday I’m interviewing Jean Alicia Elster and giving away a copy of THE COLORED CAR, a historical novel about an African American girl’s journey from the North to the South one summer in the Depression era. It sounds like a fantastic story.

And don't forget our Tuesday Tips and Casey's Thursday agent spotlights.

Hope to see you on Wednesday!

Pre-Order Campaign for Miranda Kenneally’s RACING SAVANNAH!

If you follow me on Twitter, you know I’ve been dying for Miranda Kenneally’s new book, RACING SAVANNAH. Since the release of CATCHING JORDAN in 2011, Miranda has quickly become one of my favorite authors of contemporary YA. So naturally, I’m thrilled to share this fun campaign from Sourcebooks and hope you’ll join me in pre-ordering what’s sure to be a fantastic read.

From Sourcebooks....

They’re from two different worlds, but Savannah isn’t exactly one to follow the rules. . . get the next contemporary novel from blockbuster YA novelist Miranda Kenneally: RACING SAVANNAH!

Right before her senior year, Savannah’s father whisks the family off to Tennessee to work as head groom at fancy Cedar Hill Farms. Savannah finally sees it as the perfect opportunity to earn extra money as an exercise rider—no matter how many others don’t want a girl around the barn. But she’s also caught the eye of Jack Goodwin, the owner’s son. She knows the rules: no mixing between the staff and the Goodwin family. But Jack has no such boundaries. With her dream of becoming a jockey, Savannah is not going to let someone tell her a girl isn’t tough enough to race. Sure, it’s dangerous. Then again, so is dating Jack.

We’ve put together a fun campaign to thank readers for pre-ordering: send us your proof of pre-order and we’ll send you this fabulous horseshoe key chain!

A Gift for You, for Pre-Ordering RACING SAVANNAH by Miranda Kenneally

We have a special offer for U.S. and Canada YA fans for the release of RACING SAVANNAH by Miranda Kenneally in stores in a little over three weeks! If you pre-order the book, we will send you an exclusive horseshoe key chain—perfect for any busy teen on the go! You have until December 2 or until quantities run out.

Here’s how to get your charm:

1. Pre-order the book (print or eBook) through any retailer (Barnes & Noble, Amazon, your local independent bookseller/Indiebound, Books-A-Million, Hastings, etc.)

2. Email your proof of purchase (receipt or picture of the receipt) to teenfire@sourcebooks.com. Put “Racing Savannah Pre-Order” in the subject line. Don’t forget to include your home address (US & Canada only please) so we can send you the horseshoe key chain! If you’ve already pre-ordered this book—not a problem! Send us your receipt!

3. You will get an email back confirming when the items have been sent out.

4. Enjoy Racing Savannah when it comes out in December!

Optional: take a pic of you and your horseshoe key chain and share it with Miranda Kenneally or Sourcebooks Fire on Twitter! You can find Miranda @mirandakennealy and Sourcebooks Fire @sourcebooksfire.

Agent Spotlight: Erica Rand Silverman

This week's Agent Spotlight features Erica Rand Silverman of Stimola Literary Studio.
Status: Closed to submissions except for referrals submissions through conferences.

About: “Erica has always been committed to the social and emotional well being of children. First, as a high school teacher and dean, then as a consultant for the Inner Resilience Program, and now as a literary agent in children’s publishing. In her 10+ years in publishing, Erica has worked with some of the most exciting new talent and treasured mainstays in the industry as well as the estates of our favorite classics. She is currently focused on representing authors and illustrators of illustrated books for children and the occasional adult nonfiction project in parenting and wellness. She received her degree in Secondary English Education from the University of Wisconsin – Madison, and a Master of Arts degree in Theater from Hunter College. Erica is a tireless advocate for her clients and proud to be a part of an industry that is so thoughtfully shaping young hearts and minds.” (Link)
About the Agency:
“The Stimola Literary Studio is a boutique literary agency founded in 1997. Through the years, it has established a stellar reputation in children’s publishing, respected for the contributions it has made to the body of literature for young people of all ages, cultures and ethnicities, across all genres and formats. Eclectic in taste but not in standards, we have helped to build careers for writers and artists from picture books through young adult novels with crossover appeal into the adult market. We are proud to count many NYT Bestselling and award-winning authors and illustrators among our clients, including the National Book Award, the Edgar Award, the Caldecott Medal, the Caldecott Honor Medal, the Coretta Scott King Author Medal, the Sibert Medal, two Newbery Honor Medals, and the Pura Belpre Honor Medal.
**
"And now, expanding our own horizons, our client list has now grown to include graphic novels for both young and adult readers, and projects in parenting, lifestyle, food culture, cookbooks, health and wellness, and green and sustainable eating.
"At the Studio, no matter the project, our goal is not just to sell that first book, but to build careers and strategize how, hand-in-hand, to walk a path of successful publication in the long term and achieve success in the marketplace. Our representation is based not only on a professional skill set, but on a personal passion and a relationship of mutual respect and compatibility. Whether it is a debut or the next in a long line of successes, we work to tap and stretch the talents of each author and illustrator, bringing out the best each has to offer with a sense of timing, publisher insights and market awareness that will serve them well.
"Always seeking licensing opportunities, we are proud to work as part of a very successful wider team of co-agents and subagents around the world, to license film, foreign and other subsidiary rights.” (Link)
Web Presence:
Stimola Literary Studio website.
Stimola YouTube
Stimola Live
Twitter @ericarsilverman
#mswl on Twitter
Instagram @ericarsilverman.
Facebook.  
QueryTracker.
What She's Looking For:
Genres / Specialties:
Children’s picture books, chapter books, middle grade, young adult, illustrators; non-fiction about DIY, children, parenting, and education. Currently, she is interested in authors and illustrators of illustrated books for children and the occasional adult nonfiction project in parenting and wellness.
Via E-Mail (11/2013):
“Thoughtful stories with emotional resonance. I’d love something that is quirky and joyful.”
From an Interview (07/2012):
“A good mystery novel. Conspiracy theories. I’d like to find an author/artist who is writing middle grade or YA and interspersing text and image.” (Link)
“I have been working with some amazing bloggers. For example, check out two projects—Mariah Bruehl’s Playful Learning and Rachelle Dooreley’s Tinkerlab. I would love to work on more projects like these—parents, educators, artists, chefs, professors who are already out there sharing their experiences, ideas, suggestions.
What She Isn't Looking For:
We are NOT interested in:
Picture book texts of 1000 words or more
Fables, folklore or traditional fairytales
"Mood pieces"
Stories for "all ages"
Educational workbooks/activity books
Nonfiction for institutional markets (Link)Editorial Agent?
“Very, though I prefer not to have to be. There are projects I work on for months, even a year before submission.” (Link)
Clients:
Joyce Hesselberth, Chris Gall, Robin Rosenthal, Jashar Awan, K-Fai Steele, Adam Auerbach, Aram Kim, Shanda McCloskey, Doug Salati; comic author-illustrators like: Mika Song and Dan & Jason; authors like: Susan Verde, Matthew Burgess, Annabeth Bondor-Stone and Connor White, Scott Rothman and Jenn Bailey, among others.
Query Methods:
E-mail: No.
Snail-Mail: No..
Online-Form: Yes.
Submission Guidelines (always verify): N/A as Ms. Silverman is closed to submissions
“Please submit a query letter, a synopsis of the work, a brief proposal or the first three chapters of the manuscript, a brief bio or resume, and a stamped self-addressed envelope for reply. Original artwork is not accepted. Enclose sufficient postage if you wish to have your materials returned to you.
“We do not respond to unsolicited e-mail inquiries.”
See the Stimola Literary Studio website for complete, up-to-date submission guidelines.  
Response Times:
Unknown.
Worth Your Time:
Interviews and Posts:
Authors Connect with Kids Stuck at Home at Books Around the Table (04/2020)
Co-Agenting with Kirsten Hall and Erica Rand Silverman at SCBWI Insight (Date Unknown)
Interview at SCBWI Insight (04/2018)
Agents Looking for Clients: Erica Rand Silverman at Writing and Illustrating (11/2017)
I Met My Agent . . . on Twitter?? by Shonda McClosky at Epic 18 Reads (11/2017)
Agent Erica Rand Silverman at 12 x 12 (08/2017)
Interview with Erica Rand Silverman at SCBWI (07/2016)
Literary Agent Interview: Erica Rand Silverman of Sterling Lord Literistic, Inc. at Guide to Literary Agents (07/2012).
What Make a Children’s Book Great? We Have Some Answers at Publishing Perspectives (06.01.2012)
How to Navigate a Changing Business? Children's Agents Shed Some Light at PW (02/2012).
Contact:
Please see the Stimola Literary Studio website for additional contact and query information.
Profile Details:
Last Updated: 5/22/2020.
Agent Contacted for Review? Yes
Last Reviewed By Agent? 5/28/2020.
***
Have any experience with this agent? See something that needs updating? Please leave a comment or e-mail me at natalieiaguirre7(at)gmail(dot)com
Note: These agent profiles presently focus on agents who accept children's/teen fiction. They are not interviews. Please take the time to verify anything you might use here before querying. The information found herein is subject to change.

TIP TUESDAY #174 S.J. LOMAS ON IMPRESSING LIBRARIANS WITH YOUR BOOK AND DREAM GIRL GIVEAWAY

Tip Tuesday features writers' tips on craft, research, querying, blogging, marketing, inspiration, and more. If you'd like to send in a tip, please e-mail me at agentspotlight(at)gmail(dot)com.

Natalie here. Today I’ve got a great tip on how to impress librarians with your book by S.J. Lomas. I’ll admit that this is a burning question for me. S.J. has a debut YA book, DREAM GIRL, releasing this month. Details of the giveaway are at the end of the post.

So here’s S.J.

How to Impress Librarians with your Book

1. Although it goes against the “don’t judge a book by its cover” platitude, your book should have a professional and appealing cover. A good way to figure out if your cover measures up, look at the books in the library. Does your cover resemble the quality and graphic trends of those on the shelves or could you play a game of “one of these things is not like the others”?

2. Librarians often need reviews to fall back on in the event that a book is challenged. Also, with the limited financial resources in the collection budgets these days, librarians can’t justify buying a book that comes with no reputable recommendations. Of course, we can’t all get a write up in Publisher’s Weekly or the New York Times, but if you can get your local paper, or an author blurb from someone with credibility to write a review or blurb, it can help your case.

3. Have a quality product. It’s true, all of us are the next great American novelist, but even they needed a good proofreader and editor. Make sure your work is clean and professional. Poor writing will keep your book off the shelf for sure.

4. Don’t act like your book is a precious gift direct from your golden pen to the librarian. They get a lot of solicitations from local authors. Remember the three Ps: be professional, polite, and pleasant.

5. Do your homework. Publishers expect you to be knowledgeable about the market for your work, use that knowledge when you approach a librarian. Clearly indicate the genre, audience and appeal of your book. Think about why your book would be of interest to the specific community that library serves. Once you have that knowledge, ask for the appropriate librarian for your book. Librarians are in charge of different collections. The librarian who orders cookbooks may be different from the one who orders travel books.

6. Be clear. Are you outright donating your book to the collection, regardless of what the library chooses to do with it? If the library doesn’t decide to add it to the collection, do you expect it returned?

7. Don’t burn any bridges. If the librarian doesn’t add your book, don’t be rude. Librarians work in a highly cooperative industry. You don’t want to make a name for yourself as the local author who’s obnoxiously pushy or mean. They’ll remember that when you come around with your next book. Similarly, they’ll remember if you were polite and professional. And that goes a long way.

S.J. Lomas is a cheerful Michigan girl who likes to write strange and somewhat dark YA fiction. She has also been a librarian for eight years but has worked in libraries for seventeen years. Her debut novel, Dream Girl, is forthcoming from Scribe Publishing this November. Find out more at www.sjlomas.com

Here’s a blurb of DREAM GIRL from Goodreads:

For Christine, dreams have never meant much. Until she meets Gabriel. Everyone thinks Christine should stay away from her new coworker at the library—thanks to his bad reputation—but when her dreams grow more vivid and she becomes entangled in a dangerous dream world with Gabriel every night, she can’t stay away. Soon it’s clear there is far more to dreams than Christine ever imagined, and now she’s on the path to making the biggest, and strangest, decision of her life.

S.J. has generously offered a copy of DREAM GIRL for a giveaway. To enter, all you need to do is be a follower (just click the follow button if you’re not a follower) and leave a comment by November 16th. I’ll announce the winner on November 18th. If your e-mail is not on your Google Profile, please leave it in the comments.

If you mention this contest on Twitter, Facebook, or your blog, mention this in the comments and I'll give you an extra entry. You must be 13 or older to enter. International entries are welcome.

Hope to see you next Monday when I have an interview with a 9th grader for my ASK THE EXPERT series and EARTHBOUND and UNTHINKABLE giveaways.

MEAGAN SPOONER & AMIE KAUFMAN INTERVIEW AND THESE BROKEN STARS GIVEAWAY

Happy Monday Everyone! For those of you doing NaNo, hope you’re getting off to a great start. Sadly, NaNo doesn’t work with working full-time and swim championships this week and then the state swim meet in two weeks for my daughter so I’m not doing it. But this is going to be a good month. With the holidays and days I need to take off at work or lose them, I’m not going to be at work more than 4 days every week in November. Yay!

First I have a few winners to announce:

The winner of the Spooktacular Giveaway is Erica who picked ALL OUR YESTERDAYS!

The winner of KEEPING THE PEACE is Christina Rains!

The winner of THE DISTANCE BETWEEN US is Holly Leston!

The winner of THE HERO’S GUIDE TO STORMING THE CASTLE is Martha Ramirez!

Congrats! E-mail me your address so I can send you your book. Please e-mail me by the end of Wednesday or I’ll have to pick another winner.

Today I’m thrilled to have Meagan Spooner and debut author Amie Kaufman here to share about their new book, THESE BROKEN STARS, which releases December 10, 2013. Meagan is also the author of SKYLARK and the recently released second book in the series, SHADOWLARK, a YA fantasy/dystopian series.

I loved THESE BROKEN STARS! It really put me in touch with how the world building for sci-fi can be so much like fantasy world building. And you know I love fantasy. Meagan & Amie create a fantastic world both on the spaceship Icarus and the planet it crashes on. And OMG, they keep dishing out more and more bad things for Lilac and Tarver to deal with that kept the plot fast paced with twists I wasn’t expecting.

Here’s a blurb from Goodreads:

It's a night like any other on board the Icarus. Then, catastrophe strikes: the massive luxury spaceliner is yanked out of hyperspace and plummets into the nearest planet. Lilac LaRoux and Tarver Merendsen survive. And they seem to be alone.

Lilac is the daughter of the richest man in the universe. Tarver comes from nothing, a young war hero who learned long ago that girls like Lilac are more trouble than they’re worth. But with only each other to rely on, Lilac and Tarver must work together, making a tortuous journey across the eerie, deserted terrain to seek help.

Then, against all odds, Lilac and Tarver find a strange blessing in the tragedy that has thrown them into each other’s arms. Without the hope of a future together in their own world, they begin to wonder—would they be better off staying here forever?

Everything changes when they uncover the truth behind the chilling whispers that haunt their every step. Lilac and Tarver may find a way off this planet. But they won’t be the same people who landed on it.

A timeless love story, THESE BROKEN STARS sets into motion a sweeping science fiction series of companion novels. The Starbound Trilogy: Three worlds. Three love stories. One enemy.

Hi Meagan and Amie. Thanks so much for joining us.

Thank you! It’s lovely to be here, Natalie—thanks for having us!

1. Tell us how you became writers and how you began writing together.

Meg: We’ve always loved books, and like many book-lovers, always harbored dreams of one day writing them, too. But we actually began writing together through a collaborative role-playing game, rather like a round-robin writing group where one person writes a paragraph from one character, then hands it on to the next. Amie and I clicked right away, and continued to “play” together in that way long after we’d stopped playing the games.

Amie: We came across the idea of These Broken Stars when we were looking for something to write about next. I wanted to write something around a shipwreck, and Meg was interested in space, and…voila! These Broken Stars started out as a project just for fun, and it was a while before we realized it could be a book.

2. That’s an amazing way to come up with a story idea. I’ve always been curious about how authors collaborate on a book and make it seem like it’s written by one person. And you have the challenge of Meagan living in the U.S. and Amie living in Australia. Share about your collaboration process and any tips for other writers thinking of co-writing a book.

Meg: It helps to be extremely familiar with the other person’s writing and creative process before

beginning. Amie and I had been writing together for fun for six years before we ever tried to write a novel together, so we know each others’ writing almost as well as we know our own.

Amie: There are definitely advantages, too! Being in different time zones, we can hand off the manuscript before bed. When you wake up, it’s like elves worked on it overnight! In terms of tips, we’d say you need to communicate extremely well, and set out your expectations clearly in terms of timeframes, contributions and everything else you can think of. Make sure you’re on the same page, so you don’t get tripped up later!

3. I don’t think many writers would be as dedicated as you two to write for fun together for so long before starting a project like this. And it’s even more amazing that you live in different countries and write together. What was your world building process like? And Meagan, did you find the world building different than your fantasy series?

Amie: At first our world-building was pretty organic (no pun intended), as we got to know the characters and the world all at once. Then the research began, and by the end of our revisions, our editor had us putting together what we call the Starbound Encyclopedia (Starbound is the series title), dozens of pages of everything from government to ecosystems to social boundaries, terraforming and education. It’s proving truly valuable for the sequels!

Meg: In some ways, world-building for TBS was very different from SKYLARK, but in other ways it was exactly the same. For SKYLARK, I used a lot of real-world tools like Google Maps and botany textbooks and so forth to make sure the wilderness felt like a real place. For TBS, we had to be a little more creative and think about what the universe would be like in the future. But we still had to make the planet feel like a real place, despite all its mysteries, so there was a lot of geography and other sciences that went into making it accurate and real.

4. That’s a great idea to write out an encyclopedia-like document about the important aspects of your world. I loved both Tarver and Lilac. Lilac especially goes through so much and changes tremendously as a character. And the story is mostly focused on only them with no other characters, which is hard to pull off to keep interesting like you did. How did you plot out the character arcs for Tarver and Lilac?

Meg: Thank you for saying we pulled it off! I mainly wrote Lilac, while Amie mainly wrote Tarver. With Lilac, I always knew I wanted to write this spoiled, bratty girl, because it’d be fun, and be so different from my other series. But I also knew that the brattiness was only one layer to a much more complicated character, because two-dimensional characters are not interesting over the long haul. I definitely believe that times of intense challenge peel back the superficial layers and reveal a person’s true character, and that’s definitely what happens to Lilac in THESE BROKEN STARS.

Amie: Meg’s right about intense challenges revealing who someone really is, and distilling them down to their essence. I spent a lot of time thinking about who Tarver was, and about his past experiences—over the course of the book you learn about his family, and we already know he’s been to war, fighting in the border planet rebellions. I thought about what those experiences would do to him, and how that would reveal itself at each stage of the book.

5. You did a great job making both Lilac and Tarver complicated characters that grow through the story. Share a writing challenge you faced in writing THESE BROKEN STARS and how you overcame it.

Amie: In between each chapter, we get a snippet of a scene in which Tarver is being interrogated—though we don’t know why. We soon realize he’s not telling the truth, but as his story and the facts diverge, the mystery of what he’s trying to hide grows deeper and deeper. Writing those was definitely a challenge, but absolutely worth it!

Meg: As you already mentioned, there are really only two characters in this book. It was definitely a challenge to put so much weight on their shoulders. There was no one to come in and impart information, for example—they had to learn everything themselves. There was no one for them to talk to about their feelings for each other, so we had to show their relationship with actions and thoughts. It was a challenge, certainly, but it’s also why this book is unique, and I’m so glad we kept it as is!

6. I did like all those interrogation scenes. Tell us how Tracey Adams became your agent, Amie. And Meagan, how did Josh Adams become your agent? I’d love to have either of them as my agent.

Meg: My agent story is pretty straightforward. I studied for quite a while how to write a good query letter, based on success stories and advice from other writers, and I compiled a list of agents who I felt, based on their clients and whatever interviews I could find, would be a good match for me and my work. I did a ton of work before querying, so once I finally sent the letters out, I got responses right away. Josh was one of several agents to offer, but I chose him because of his business savvy and his obvious enthusiasm for my book. You want your agent to be competent and well-connected, but above all, you want them passionate!

Amie: When it came time for me to hunt, Meg and I were already working on These Broken Stars together, so it was a natural choice for me to check in with Josh and Tracey. They knew the book was in the works and they were interested to see it. Fun fact: I got Tracey’s email offering representation in a hotel room in Madrid while my husband and I were on holiday. I was so excited I cried—and since I was also so sick I had literally NO voice, my husband thought something terrible had happened!

7. That’s a funny story, Amie. Sorry you were sick though. I know you’re going on a blog tour. How was that set up and how are you splitting up the marketing of your book? Do you have any tips on marketing for the rest of us?

Amie: The amazing Wendy Darling over at The Midnight Garden is running our blog tour, and our fab publicist Jamie Baker has been heaps of help as well. There’ll also be an Aussie blog tour coming up – keep your eyes on our Twitter feeds or subscribe to our newsletter for lots more details!
Link: http://www.themidnightgarden.net

Meg: When it comes to divvying up the marketing tasks, we tend to go each by our strengths. I’m a bit more visual and introverted, so I tend to handle things like designing swag, compiling our monthly newsletter, creating banners for our websites, etc. Amie, on the other hand, is a champion extrovert, and super charismatic! So she’ll often do a lot of the outreach to bloggers and industry professionals, all the stuff that makes me want to hide under my desk. It works out pretty well! As far as advice is concerned, I’d tell people to do what they enjoy doing. The possibilities for marketing are limitless, and it’s hard to tell what works and what doesn’t, so you should concentrate on the stuff you like. That passion and enthusiasm will come through, and attract your readers!

8. That’s great you balance each other so well. What are you working on now?

Meg: Well, we’re just finishing up revisions on the second book in the Starbound trilogy, and working on the first draft of book three. We’ve each got other projects in the works, too, but right now, they’re all top secret!

Thanks for sharing all your advice, Meagan and Amie. You can find them at:

Amie:Website | Twitter | Facebook | Pinterest

Meagan:Website | Twitter | Facebook | Pinterest

Sign up for their newsletter here,  and get the latest dish before anyone else!

Meagan and Amie’s publisher Disney Hyperion generously provided an ARC of THESE BROKEN STARS for a giveaway. To enter, all you need to do is be a follower (just click the follow button if you’re not a follower) and leave a comment through November 16th. I’ll announce the winner on November 18th. If your e-mail is not on your Google Profile, please leave it in the comments.

If you mention this contest on Twitter, Facebook, or your blog, mention this in the comments and I'll give you an extra entry. You must be 13 or older to enter. This is for US/Canada residents only.

Here’s what’s coming up:

Tomorrow I have a Tip Tuesday by S.J. Lomas and a giveaway of her YA novel, DREAM GIRL.

Next Monday I have an interview with a 9th grader for my ASK THE EXPERT series and EARTHBOUND and UNTHINKABLE giveaways.

Next Wednesday I have a big Indie giveaway. I'll have lots of great book choices by our followers. I'll also be announcing a new feature to help all of my followers on their writing journey and will be asking for some advice on promoting our Indie authors.

Next Friday I'll be doing a Gratitude Giveaway Hop. I'll have lots of great choices of YA books I've either read or am dying to read.

The following Monday, I’m interviewing debut author and follower Crystal Collier and giving away a copy of MOONLESS, , her fantasy she describes as “Jane Eyre meets supernatural.”

And don't forget our Tuesday Tips and Casey's Thursday agent spotlights.

Hope to see you on Monday!

KIT GRINDSTAFF ON MARKETING FOR NEWBIES AND FLAME IN THE MIST GIVEAWAY

Happy Halloween Everyone! Today I've got debut author Kit Grindstaff here with tips on marketing. I'm definitely one of the nervous--okay terrified--ones who really appreciates Kit's advice. And she's offering a copy of her fantastic creepy fantasy book, THE FLAME IN THE MIST.

So here's Kit.


PROMOTING A DEBUT KIDLIT NOVEL: Tips for Nervous (and not-nervous) Newbies, and a giveaway.

Halloween is the time when spirits can supposedly cross freely from their world into ours. But to me, the prospect doing in-person events for my debut middle grade novel was far more scary. Public speaking? Lifetime terror # 1! Give me zombies swarming my house or werewolves howling beneath the full moon any day. They, after all, aren’t real—but presentations are.

Two things helped me a lot with my fear. First was something called Speaking Circles. These are groups that exist all over the U.S., where you can practice speaking in front of a small group of people. With its supportive environment and expert guidance, my all-out quake reduced to inner tremble in just two sessions.

Also, there’s safety in numbers. So as well as being part of an online group of debut 2013 authors called the Lucky 13s, I joined a local group of published kidlit authors who do events together. The company of more seasoned authors definitely eased my newbie nerves. Additional benefit: each member of the group is responsible for bringing in a few events a year, which increases visibility.

If there’s just one piece of advice I’d give on the nerves front, it’s this: Let your book speak for itself! People want to hear about it. Communicate your passion for it and its themes and meaning to you when you talk—whether to groups or individuals—and listeners will be all ears. Think of it as telling its story, with you in the support role. That made it easier for me. As I began to do events, my confidence increased, and anxiety lessened. Some ‘firsts’ were capital-‘S’ Scare-reee, but remembering what’s important—getting the book out there, and connecting with readers— helped me keep it in perspective. Nerves began to take a back seat. Now, I look forward to events.

So, fear factor notwithstanding, what events can authors do? What works, and what doesn’t? Here’s my list, and a bit about my experience with each.

BOOK STORES

1. Book Launch
Celebrate the triumph of your book’s release! The support of friends and family is a great way to get over First Event anxiety. It’s motivating. Exciting. And hard to feel nervous with all that positive energy around.

Check with your local store early; some book a couple of months out. Make the event go with a bang—it’s your book’s birthday party! I had balloons, food (friends were happy to help), a raffle, swag. I spoke for maybe 10 minutes, with just a flutter of anxiety. If not for Speaking Circles, I know I’d have been a wreck. But all went fabulously…and I was on my way.

2. Group Signings
Avoid very large in-store events! Research shows that given too much choice, people don’t choose. My experience agrees. At two multi-author events with upwards of 20 authors, few of us sold many, if any, books. However, an event of nine authors, with just three of us in the store’s kidlit department, was terrific. We knew each other, so talked up each other’s books. That kind of mutual support is wonderful, and can make group events way more fun than solo ones.

3. Solo Signings
The four I’ve done have been my best events. The downside is that unless you’re already a known author, at some point you’ll experience people walking right past your table of books as though you’re invisible. And you can feel very lemon-like sitting there with a “Hi! I’m me and feel totally comfortable right now!” smile plastered on your face.

Here’s a tip, though: people often don’t know that you’re the author of that lovely pile of books. Even with a poster of you/your book cover right there!! I realized that when someone asked me, “Where’s the Sci-fi section?” So write a sign saying something like, “Yes! I’m the author!” More people stop. They’re curious. Some have never met an author. For many, that’s a thrill.

Also, doing presentations is definitely better than just sitting with your books. Stores publicise them more, and even a handful of expectant listeners makes all the difference.

4. Educator presentations for teachers and librarians
These are organized by stores—though not all do them—so let their events organizers know you’re

available. Once on their radar, you’ll be on their list of possible presenters. Usually it’s a panel format where authors either to talk about their books or about some aspect of writing.

Like any event, they’re hit and miss. Best case scenario: In some states (e.g. NJ), educators can gain continuing education credits by attending. That motivates them to go, giving you a captive audience. Make sure you take whatever educator materials you have to hand out—school visit information, etc. You never know who’ll pick one up and book you for an event down the line.

5. Book Fairs
Usually held at the store, kids go to in droves with their parents to buy the books on their school’s reading list. Being invited to attend as a signing author is great (the store needs to get the Ok from the particular school, of course). Kids are excited to have an author there. And their enthusiasm is the icing on any event cake.

CONFERENCES
In June, I attended the NJ SCBWI’s (Society of Children’s Book Authors and Illustrators) ace conference—my first from the author side of the fence! I co-presented two workshops with YA author and Jennifer Hubbard  (she’s a fellow member of the local kidlit group), which made it way more fun and nerve-managable than doing it on my own. Once you’re published, check with your local SCBWI chapter what the possibilities are.

Thanks to another local author friend, I was also invited to be on a panel at the PA Library Association conference this month, where I met loads of lovely librarians. A fabulous opportunity!

BOOK FESTIVALS
Though some are huge book-biz or commercail affairs, there are many that authors can apply to themselves. I’ve attended three so far, all great, in very different venues (schools, street, etc.) Check here for upcoming ones, and apply early!


SCHOOL VISITS
Generally, there are two kinds: assembly presentations (Power Point or similar), or writing workshops. I haven’t tackled writing workshops yet (coming in 2014!), but assembly presentations were a Big Dread for me. When it came to it, though, I had enough smaller events under my belt to make my fear manageable—and my first school visit turns out to be one of my favorite events to date. (For a full account, read about it on my blog.) 

BOOK TOURS
They’re very rarely organized by publishers these days, especially for newbies. So a few of us MG authors from the Lucky 13s banded together and organized a mini tour of our own, coming up soon! Each of us approached stores in our area, and we’re hitting 6 venues on the east coast. (For full details, check The Lucky 13s blog on 11/11) Not something I could have pulled off on my own—so chalk up another for groups.

If all that seems a lot, just remember: This didn’t happen all at once. As you get out there and connect with other authors, you get to hear about events through them, and one thing leads to another. You help each other. Kidlit authors are notoriously friendly and helpful—just as are the wonderful bloggers on the online side, like Natalie here at Literary Rambles. You’re part of a community, online and offline. The trick (and treat) is to take it one step at a time. Push the envelope just a little. Then, none of it is so scary.

To wind up, here are some random closing extras:

Keep expectations realistic! Don’t expect to sell/sign a zillion books at every event. You won’t, at least till you’re already a best seller. (In which case, you can sign them all in the limo.)

Publicise events on social media. Twitter, Tumblr—whatever your favorite is. For local events, create a Facebook event and invite people. If you belong to local writer groups, make announcements on their forums.

Leave time for Q&A at the end of presentations: It’s easy on you, and audiences love it.

Don’t lose heart! Remember, you never know what can happen. For example:
~ An author friend spoke at a conference. She sold one book at the event. One! But her book was nominated for her state’s reading list because of her presentation. That is huge.

Smell the roses: Promoting a book isn’t life or death! So remember to breathe, and live a little in the between (just a little).

Remember the kids you’re writing for. They are the BEST! Their enthusiasm makes it all worthwhile.

Enjoy them, and the process. And remember to live the rest of life too!

Thank you, Natalie, for hosting me. And Happy Halloween, everyone!

Thanks for all the great advice, Kit. It really is helping me feel less nervous and I'm terrified of this promotion stuff.

You can find Kit at:

Kit’s website: www.kitgrindstaff.com
To check out the trailer for The Flame in the Mist, click here.

Here's a blurb of THE FLAME IN THE MIST from Goodreads:

 Set in an imagined past, this dark fantasy-adventure is for fans of Philip Pullman's The Golden Compass. Features  Jemma, a fiery-headed heroine held captive in Agromond Castle, yet destined to save mist-shrouded Anglavia.
Fiery-headed Jemma Agromond is not who she thinks she is, and when the secrets and lies behind her life at mist-shrouded Agromond Castle begin to unravel, she finds herself in a chilling race for her life. Ghosts and misfits, a stone and crystals, a mysterious book, an ancient prophecy—all these reveal the truth about Jemma's past and a destiny far greater and more dangerous than she could have imagined in her wildest fantasies. With her telepathic golden rats, Noodle and Pie, and her trusted friend, Digby, Jemma navigates increasingly dark forces, as helpers both seen and unseen, gather. But in the end, it is her own powers that she must bring to light, for only she has the key to defeating the evil ones and fulfilling the prophecy that will bring back the sun and restore peace in Anglavia. 

Kit is generously offering a signed hardback copy of her book for US/Canada or an e-book for International winners. Fill out the Rafflecopter form below to enter.


a Rafflecopter giveaway

Here's what's coming up:

Next  Monday I’ll be interviewing Meagan Spooner and Amie Kaufman and giving away an ARC of THESE BROKEN STARS. It’s a fantastic sci-fi story which really got me in touch with how similar sci-fi world building can be to fantasy, my favorite genre.

The following Monday I have an interview with a 9th grader for my ASK THE EXPERT series and EARTHBOUND and UNTHINKABLE giveaways.

Wednesday that week I have a big Indie giveaway. I'll have lots of great book choices by our followers. I'll also be announcing a new feature to help all of my followers on their writing journey and will be asking for some advice on promoting our Indie authors.

Friday that week, I'll be doing a Gratitude Giveaway Hop. I'll have lots of great choices of YA books I've either read or am dying to read. 

And don't forget our Tuesday Tips and Casey's Thursday agent spotlights.

Hope to see you Monday!

TIP TUESDAY #173 MARIA DISMONDY ON GIVING BACK TO YOUR FANS

Tip Tuesday features writers' tips on craft, research, querying, blogging, marketing, inspiration, and more. If you'd like to send in a tip, please e-mail me at agentspotlight(at)gmail(dot)com.

Natalie here. Today I’ve got a great tip on giving back to your fans by Maria Dismondy, who has shared several other great tips with us. Maria is the author of THE POTATO CHIP CHAMP: DISCOVERING WHY KINDESS COUNTS

So here’s Maria.

Giving Back to Your Fans

As authors, we write books to share a story with our audience. Our fans purchase our books, which makes it possible for us to keep writing. It’s a wonderful cycle of doing what we love, and being rewarded in return. But have you ever stopped to give back to your fans? Here are some simple ways I like to show readers my appreciation. 

Prizes Galore

Everyone loves a prize! So I like to give away trinkets at my book signing events. The Oriental Trading website is my go-to for inexpensive items that I can buy in bulk. To pick the item, I find an object that relates to my book’s theme. Things like baseballs, stars, cookies, etc. work great. Bookmarks are always nice, too. And even though candy is easy (and delicious!), I like to stick to ‘things’ vs. anything edible. Whatever you choose, include purchasing information and book images for an added special touch.  

“Can I Have Your Autograph?”

Readers love having a book signed by the author. Even I have waited in long lines just to christen my book with my favorite authors’ John Hancock! Giving fans a chance to meet you in person is an exciting opportunity. Bookplates are also a nice option – simply sign and mail to any fans that request an autograph but can’t make it to your event. To set up a book signing and let the fun begin, simply contact your local bookstores – they’ll know the drill!

Sign, Sealed, Delivered -- Fan Mail!

As a former teacher, we studied a different author each month. We spent time reading their books and learning about their writing styles. At the end of each study, we would write a letter to the author. It was always a treat to receive something back in the mail. We didn’t always get a hand written note, which is completely understandable, but the handwritten ones were treasures we held onto! Open the door to receiving fan mail by setting up a P.O. Box in your pen name. Then post the address on your website and watch the letters roll in!

Review Rewards

When a blogger reviews one of my books, I like to say, “thanks” by sending a free, signed book their way. Then they can give it away to their own fans and keep the circle of gratitude going! Coffee gift cards are another one of my go-to gifts. 

Free, Fun Downloads

With each book I write, I offer a free download on my website. For teachers/parents, this includes lesson plans and activities that correlate to my book. (I’ve written Reader’s Guides myself but, more recently, I’ve hired teachers to create the lessons.) For the kids, I offer coloring pages designed by the illustrators of my books. It’s added touches like these that go a long way in the eyes of your fans – young and old!

Maria Dismondy, mother of two (with one on the way), reading specialist, fitness instructor and bestselling children’s author living in Southeast Michigan. You can find Maria at:

Website

Blog

Twitter

Pinterest

Here’s a blurb of THE POTATO CHIP CHAMP from Goodreads:

Champ and Walter Norbert Whipplemoore are about as different as two kids can bewell, except for their love of baseball and potato chips. Champ had everything, but always wanted more. Walter had very little, but was never seen without a smile on his face. In the end, it is Walter and some crunchy potato chips that teach Champ a lesson about character that can't be taught in school.

  

Hope to see you tomorrow when I have a guest post by debut author Kit Grindstaff and a giveaway of THE FLAME IN THE MIST, a MG creepy fantasy.