Friday, December 26, 2014


Dreamtime Man written by Margot Finke, is a work of art from the interesting educational verse it is written in, to the magnificent illustrations by Joana Zdralea.  The colors are simply mesmerizing.   Details of the Australian Aboriginal people will not only educate children and adults, but also entertain them as well.

Even though the text may be a bit advanced for young children, the illustrations will still hold their attention and introduce them to an ancient and proud culture from the Down Under.

This is an exceptional book for children and adults; both in text and art. The author and the artist were certainly in sync on this one. Beautiful book!



This book was reviewed by Susan Hornbach, author of children’s literature



**LISTEN to Margot read Dreamtime Man: http://tinyurl.com/qham5nv
**Available from Amazon: http://tinyurl.com/bg9dtxt
**Autographed—with a FREE copy of her 
“Fairdinkum   Aussie Recipe Book.”
http://myplace.frontier.com/~mfinke/Magic%20Carpet%20Books.htm




Margot Finke.

Margot Finke is an Aussie author whose 13 books range from midgrade adventure fiction to rhyming picture books. For many years she has lived in Oregon with her husband and family. Gardening, travel, and reading fill in the cracks between her writing. 

Their three children are now grown and doing very well.  Four delightful grandchildren round out Margot’s family.

Her Manuscript Critique Service helps children’s writers polish and tighten their stories before publication.  Helping other writers succeed, and HOOKING kids on reading, are Margot’s special goals.

She didn't begin serious writing until the day their youngest left for college. This late start drives her writing, and pushes her to work at it every day. Margot says, "I really envy those who began young, and managed to slip into writing mode between kid fights, diaper changes, household disasters, and outside jobs. You are my heroes! "




Sunday, December 21, 2014

Tommy's Amigo



Tommy’s Amigo written and illustrated by Nancy Carty Lepri, is a story about a Mexican boy who desperately misses his father and also wants to fit in with his school mates.  He lives with his grandmother who has also migrated to the US.  In spite of her deep love for her grandson, his Grandmother’s pride seems to rule her judgment.   As a result, Tommy is left to desperation that could cause him his life.

Tommy is bullied, but tries to roll with the punches. He finds himself in confrontation in the lunch room at school.  His close friends back him up, but Tommy’s life begins to spiral out of control from that point on.  His father has been sent to jail for something he is not guilty of and Tommy must find a way to stay out of foster care.

Tommy’s Amigo is a pleasant surprise.  His Amigo shows him how to hang in there when all is unraveling.  Tommy finds himself in trouble a number of times throughout these pages.  The story is fast moving and will hold the attention of boys and girls to the end.

The problems in this book are true to life and would certainly help any child relate to those of other culture or those who are experiencing similar conditions.
Great Book!

This book has been reviewed by Susan Hornbach, author of children’s literature





Wednesday, December 17, 2014


Frannie who has to make many new adjustments due to her father’s job relocation becomes empowered to help another.  She finds herself juggling new problems, but somehow rises above her woes.  She is not only lonely because she now has to make new friends, and attend a new school, but she also has a twin brother who torments her very soul.

Frannie finds herself enthralled in an eerie situation.  She becomes involved in detective work, and is put in a position that calls for a life or death decision.  Frannie must find a killer, capture him and do it without anyone else knowing she is involved.

This is a story of a young girl who misses her mother and can’t figure out what has happened to her.  Her family depends heavily on her support and she is dragged into danger by an unexpected ghostly being.

The book is a page turner and holds your interest to the end of the last paragraph.  It’s filled with dilemma, drama, sibling rivalry, mystery, and many things that can concern a young girl and boy.  If you like ghosts, mystery, and waiting for the next page to suck you in further, you’re going to like his book. 

Some of the expressions used by the kids were foreign to me, but all in all it did not detract from the excitement of the story.  I very much enjoyed this book and recommend it to teens and adults alike.


Margot Finke is known for her rhyming books for children. The Revenge of Thelma Hill is a new and exciting addition to her creative collection of writing. 


This book has been reviewed by Susan Hornbach author of children's literature




Margot Finke.

Margot Finke is an Aussie author whose 13 books range from midgrade adventure fiction to rhyming picture books. For many years she has lived in Oregon with her husband and family. Gardening, travel, and reading fill in the cracks between her writing. 

Their three children are now grown and doing very well.  Four delightful grandchildren round out Margot’s family.

Her Manuscript Critique Service helps children’s writers polish and tighten their stories before publication.  Helping other writers succeed, and HOOKING kids on reading, are Margot’s special goals.

She didn't begin serious writing until the day their youngest left for college. This late start drives her writing, and pushes her to work at it every day. Margot says, "I really envy those who began young, and managed to slip into writing mode between kid fights, diaper changes, household disasters, and outside jobs. You are my heroes! "


Purchase Books Here







Wednesday, December 10, 2014



See all 5 customer reviews (newest first)

Amazon link to the print version:

Amazon link to the Kindle version:

Barnes & Noble link:



After a partially-covered body displaying unusual physical characteristics was found in the backwoods of Virginia, FBI agent Jack Stanwick is once again summoned. This was the third victim to be discovered in this condition, and with most of the brotherhood on another high-profile case, he needed some outside help. Jack knew just where to go. He hires three former police officers who work for the Davenport Detective Agency. During the initial investigation, the detectives focus their attention on the militia group, M.A.G.O.C. (Men Against Government Overtaking Control), only to find that several members and a high-ranking official in the White House are involved in a governmental conspiracy. Digging further, the detectives come upon Prescott Chemicals, where an elixir that was discovered in the Amazon Rain forest by the Mayapo natives years before, is now being transformed into a formula with irreversible consequences. While investigating a lead, the detectives accidentally come into contact with the elixir and experience a change to their bodies and minds causing some amusing, yet permanent issues. With the assistance of a beautiful journalist and a bitter French physicist, the detectives come upon the location of the perpetrators and uncover a plot which culminates into the betrayal and a secret that affects one of detectives, changing his life.  

Saturday, November 22, 2014



A heartwarming story of a boy who over comes his fears by applying his efforts and following the path of Jesus. Ben has to prove to his family he is responsible enough to take on summer camp and look in the face of everything that scares him.  In the process he proves to be a hero with his handicapped friend Mary who has lost her service dog and also his new found homeless friend Jeremy.

This is a book that will hold the interest of children, but also the reader will be able to identify with Ben’s fears and sibling rivalry. Janet Ann Collins has written a story that teaches compassion, alerts a child to the hardships of others in life. 

The story awakens children to the troubles some people have in their lives, and shows them how God interacts through all of us in ways we never expect.

The characters Ben and Tom develop personal growth both in daily life and in spiritual being.  Great story and inspiring book for kids.   Lots of stars for this one.

This book has been reviewed by Susan Hornbach, author of children's literature


Tuesday, November 11, 2014




Buzzing about, kitty cat prowls, and storing the nuts for the winter, is what this book is touting. If you like rhymes and cats that purr and climb, bumbles that buzz and pollinate, this would be a great selection for you or any child’s library.

Children will love the magnificent vivid, pop off the page illustrations by Elizabeth Koenig. Each picture is more inviting than the last.  Children will delight in these full color pages that are sure to entertain.

Margot Finke has written yet another book of rhythmic verse for children. She is well known for her rhyming books and her ability to delight and amuse children with her entertaining and educational stories and facts of not only the down under, but also other parts of the world.

Squirrels can’t Help Being Nuts offers vocabulary words at the end of each page.  Great book, fun for kids, excellent read!

This book has been reviewed by Susan Hornbach, author of children’s literature.





Friday, October 3, 2014

Guardian Angel Kids Magazine


October Issue is filled with features, stories, and animals from Down Under. Not only is  this issue educational, but is sure to delight kids with it's photography and beautiful illustrations. For other issues: Click Here

Tuesday, September 30, 2014

October, National Domestic Abuse Month, Promote Awareness

For Immediate Release

Erin Ireland


erinirelandwrites@yahoo.com
    www.erinirelandwrites.com

The assaulting truth about abuse! Local author Erin Ireland lays it out for you… In a book titled: A Voice in the Night: Silent Abuse, The Early Warning Signs That Could Save Your Life.  

West Chester Pennsylvania –Oct 1, 2014 - From a woman who endured what most don't dream in a nightmare. This is the loneliness of abuse. Let there be awareness that spouses do poison their mates, and authorities do not put enough stock in the fact that it does happen every day to people who are being silently abused. Many die without anyone knowing what killed them. Poisonings and gassings are silent abuse that need to be expressed, and exposed. So many never realize how much abuse they do submit to, thinking they are merely sucking it up for the betterment of the relationship. An abusive life can be replaced, and fulfilled with happiness. Abuse is a conditioning that can be unlearned. If one can find the strength to believe in them self, they can find their way out!

This is a book to serve many. A book that will enlighten you on how the treatment you accept from others is a huge factor to whether or not you will be happy in your life. There are those mates who view their partner as a possession. Possessions are discarded when no longer needed. A Voice in the Night will provide hope for young people to find a safe ground to stand on; to give them the warning signs early on when beginning to date. It is a book for all ages to take notice of the treatment they allow from others. Erin Ireland has hopes for you to find your peace and to know your rights as a human being. The message truly is "A Voice in the Night" for all who wish to be happier in their relationships or simply happier without their abusive relationship.
Are you not sure whether your mate is actually abusive? Erin Ireland has laid it out for you. When you finish reading these pages you will know the ingredients for a solid relationship and the specifics of when your mate has crossed the abusive line. "A Voice in the Night, Silent Abuse, The Early Warning Signs That Could Save Your Life" Now available at www.erinirelandwrites.com

Read Reviews and Purchase  here at Amazon


See all 7 customer reviews (newest first)


Erin's Website  

This is a Self Help Book to bring awareness to those who may not recognize abuse; for those who do, and need help; and for those who are afraid to admit they have a right to something better for themselves. Erin Ireland is a woman who has spent many years observing the abuse of others as well as herself. Her experiences have been many in the direction of others who suffer in silence with isolation, controlled obsessions, verbal abuse, Superior attitudes, deceit, jealousy, physical, and sexual assaults, and many more indignities suffered everyday by beautiful people.

Erin Ireland is a nom de plume, in order to protect the innocent. She will always speak her mind and the truth for the betterment of all those who seek answers and comfort. She has written a book Titled, "A Voice in the Night, Silent Abuse, The Early Warning Signs That Could Save Your Life". This is a book to help others bypass the long suffering that can be eliminated when learning to view the traits of an abuser early on. Erin Ireland wishes to touch the lives of all who wish to live and enjoy an abuse free life.
  

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Monday, September 29, 2014

Bedtime Kisses



A beautiful little interpretation of a child who savors the bed time ritual.   When waiting for Mommy, kisses are given to all who wait in the play area.  In the end furry friends and child are tucked in bed after learning to count to ten.

The adorable illustrations by Ginger Nielson pop from the page, are soft, bright, enticing and are sure to be a child pleaser.  Bedtime Kisses written by Karin Larson is a resource book for toddlers learning to count to ten and also for Young children beginning to read.

I think this would be a perfect end of the day story with a soft and soothing feel that helps a child experience the bedtime tuck-in with security and contentment. 

Loved this book for its overall pleasing feel and affect

Stars and treats for this one!




Author




Karin Larson is a children’s author, freelance writer and speech/language pathologist living in Mitchell, SD, with her husband and three children. Larson is the author of Bedtime Kisses, published by 4RV Publishing, and The Little Bug (under contract – Guardian Angel Publishing). She enjoys reading and traveling with family. Larson is a member of SCBWI and a graduate of the Institute of Children’s Literature. Visit Karin at www.karinlarson.com



Illustrator of:
 Bedtime Kisses
Ginger Nielson began her artist career early in life when she created a misty morning fog in the upstairs hallway of her parents Victorian home .She used her older sister's dusting powder and powder mitt as the catalyst. It was in the days when people still believed in spanking, but she talked her way out that one. Coming to the world of children's illustration a bit later in life, Ginger was an elementary school teacher and art teacher before becoming a travel agent. Both of those careers enabled her to connect deeply with many children and many different cultures. Visit Ginger at http://www.gingernielson.com












Wednesday, September 17, 2014

Maddi's Fridge



Sofi and Maddie are best friends.  They play every day together. The playground is their favorite place to climb, run, and have fun.  Maddi and Sofi are pretty much like most kids, except that Maddi has a problem that is all too familiar these days.  She is hungry.

The story depicts some childhood difficulties, children trying to help children, secrets that can’t be kept, siblings that care about each other, and friends that show their compassion with generosity.

Maddi’s Fridge is a wonderful book for Kids.  It teaches children to share, to be companionate, and to know that sometimes it’s not good to keep a secret.  While this delightful little book brings hunger awareness to children, its pages are also filled with fun.

The Author Lois Brandt, has shown children that they too can help those in need.  The illustrations by Vin Vogel are filled with whimsy that are certain to delight young readers.

The life lessons in this book will live on in a child’s mind. I give it five bags of goodies for great content.


This book was reviewed by Susan Hornbach, author of children’s literature





About The Author Of


Maddi’s Fridge


Lois Brandt is the author of Maddi's Fridge, illustrated by Vin Vogel.

Years ago Lois peeked into her best friend’s refrigerator and found empty shelves and
one small carton of milk. Her best friend’s family didn’t have enough money to buy
food. Maddi’s Fridge is the result of that moment.

A teacher by trade, Lois weaves together diverse images and events to create stories
for children. She lives near Seattle, WA, with her husband, assorted kids, two dogs,
and a fluffy cat who thinks he’s a dog. This is her first picture book.



Sunday, September 14, 2014

My Brother Is My Best Friend





Come spend a day with Blake and Drake.  Twin brothers who do everything together.  They play till their heart’s content, sharing in the activities that will delight young children. 

There are rainbows and sunshine, pretending and snowballs, hot chocolate and toasty snuggles, trees and ponds, birds and fish, and the fun continues on. The whimsical illustrations by Clara Batton Smith, have captured the essence of the story, and are sure to delight little tykes. 

The award winning author of My Brother is My Best Friend, Nicole Weaver, has written another book, My Sister is My Best Friend; all books are written in three languages.  They are both fun and entertaining books for small children. 

I found this book to be cute, cute, cute! I give it lollipops and stars for content filled with fun.

This book has been reviewed by Susan Hornbach, author of children’s literature



Purchase Book



About the Author


Nicole weaver is an award-winning author. Her first trilingual book Marie and Her Friend the Sea Turtle was published in 2009.

Her love for languages and other cultures resulted in publishing the award-winning book, My Sister Is My Best Friend which was published in 2011 by Guardian Angel Publishing Inc.

My Sister Is My Best Friend has won the following awards: 2012 Creative Child Awards Program consisting of moms and educators has awarded this book the 2012 PREFERRED CHOICE AWARD Kids Picture Storybooks category. 2012 Children's Literary Classics Seal of Approval 2012 Children's Literary Classics Gold Award Readers' Favorite 5 Star Review

Her newest book, My Brother Is My Best Friend; also published by Guardian Angel Publishing Inc., January 2014.






Thursday, September 11, 2014


Maggie Mae Detective Extraordinaire

The Case of the Missing Cookies



What do whistles, crumbs, strands of hair and grandpa’s chair have to do with this detective story?  You’ll just have to open this book and ruffle the pages a bit to find out!  Maggie Mae is hard at work.  She’s got the tools and the know how to track down a thief. No one gets in her way.  She is relentless.

This is a delightful story about a little girl who puts her detective talents to work.  Her Grandma has a problem that needs immediate attention.  Maggie Mae is there on the job to help. Grandpa, well, not so much.

I think young children will love the story of Grandparents, cookies, a brother, and a dog, along with a story of mystery solving.  These pages illustrated by Jack Foster, who by the way never disappoints with his larger than life illustrations, is a fun and entertaining read for young boys and girls.  

Margo Dill, author of Finding My Place, has now written Maggie Mae Detective Extraordinaire, The Case of the Missing Cookies, a delightful detective story to engage children in the track down of a thief.  The story moves along. It’s fun, entertaining, and sure to hold a child’s attention. I give it five whole bag of yummy cookies.


Loved the story, and so will kids!

Purchase Book Here




About Margo L. Dill

Me with short hair!


Margo L. Dill is the author of the young adult novel Caught Between Two Curses (March 18, 2014 from Rocking Horse Publishing) and the middle-grade historical fiction novel, Finding My Place: One Girl’s Strength at Vicksburg (October 2012, White Mane Kids).  She also has a picture book accepted by High Hill Press.


If you are looking for information on Margo’s editing business, Editor 911, please go here: http://www.margodill.com/Editor911.html OR e-mail her at margo (at) margodill.com with Editor 911 in the subject line.
Besides writing books, she is a freelance writer, editor, and teacher, living in St. Louis, Missouri. Her work has appeared in publications such as Grit, Pockets, Missouri Life, By Line Magazine, The Chicago Tribune, True Love, On the Line, Fun for Kidz, and The News-Gazette. She is a columnist, instructor, and contributing editor for WOW! Women On Writing. She writes weekly book reviews for The News-Gazette (Champaign, IL).  She is also the memoir and children’s/YA novel editor for High Hill Press.
She is a former elementary classroom teacher, writing teacher, and TITLE I teacher, who believes in using books to teach children reading, writing, social studies, science, health, and math. She believes books can start conversations that children otherwise might not want to have.
She is happy to come speak to your writing group, do a workshop for teachers on writing or reading, work with children and teens to improve their writing skills and creativity, or do a program for your community group. She absolutely LOVES going to schools and visiting with children and teens. For more information on her workshops, please click on the tab on this blog that says, “Speaking and Teaching,” or contact her at margo(at)margodill.com.

This book was reviewed by Susan Hornbach, Author of children’s literature