Giveaway Winners!!!!!

This post will celebrate a couple of giveaways that I have held recently and have just now been able to address.

and the winners are........................

1. Dreaming of Books Giveaway Hop: $10 Amazon Gift Card


Brittney House


2. Author Interview & Book Giveaway: Being Human by Patricia Lynne


Lisa Walker


3. A New Kind of Cookbook: Serving Up Faith with recipes by yours truly included:)


Karlene
&
Karen Strong


Congratulations to all the winners. Please look for an email from me :)

Author Interview and Book Giveaway: Patricia Lynne: Being Human

Hi everyone. Welcome to Thursday Author Interviews. I have moved the interviews to Thursday so that they don't clash or get overshadowed by Perfect Picture Book Fridays. Today I would like to introduce you all to Patricia Lynne. Some of you may remember, she was one of the winners of the New Author Blog Hop held last year. So without further ado.... Here is Patricia Lynne, and her debut novel, Being Human.

Summary:

For Tommy, there is only one thing he needs to do: survive.

Only surviving isn't that easy. The hunt for blood can be tricky when humans know to fear the night. Desire sits on the edge of his mind, urging him to become the monster humans think he is. Vampire Forces, a special branch of police, is determined to turn every vampire to ash. Tommy included.

The only human Tommy can trust is his twin brother. A bond connects them, and with Danny's help, Tommy starts to understand the human world he struggles to survive in. He'll learn what friendships means and feel the sting of betrayal, find that sometimes the worst monsters are very human, and come to understand that family means more than blood. 

Thank you for joining us today! Can you tell us a little bit about yourself and your book, "Being Human"?

I can tell you I never thought I'd be an author. When I was in school, I was all about art. English wasn't even my favorite subject. When I was in college, my English prof. assigned us to write a story and I got a D! Managed to bring it up to a B, but yeah, I thought writing wasn't for me. So when I started writing down some of the ideas in my head, it was just for fun. Until I got to Being Human. That one just struck me as one I wanted to share with the world. I started googling and researching writing. Needless to say, I don't think I'd get any more Ds in a college writing course.

Being Human is a story about a young vampire named Tommy who is trying to figure out how to survive in a human world he no longer remembers.

What inspired you to write this story?

Another book inspiring Being Human. I was reading Thirsty by M.T. Anderson and the ending isn't very happily ever after. It kept me thinking what would happen next. Then Tommy pretty much popped in my head and told me he knew what happened next. The kind of vampires got changed up, and neither story really connects anymore, but that was the initial spark that gave birth to Being Human.

Who is your favorite character in your book? Why?

I have to think about that because I love all the characters one way or another. I'd probably say Mackenzie. She was so fun to write when she was a toddler, and when she got older, she was so perky and innocent. I loved some of her lines. Crack me up everytime.

What was your road to publication like?

At first I was going to query agents and traditional publishers. But as I looked into it more and more, I realized going that route didn't look very appealing to me. I would be query a vampire book and those were on the way out. There was little chance I'd get picked up. Plus, I really enjoyed the idea of being in complete control and self publishing gave that.

Is there anything you know know about the publishing industry that wish you had known before starting your journey?

That promotion and marking is the root of all that is evil. LOL Kidding, but it is the toughest part. I knew it would be difficult, but it's way more tricky than I thought. It's caused me to hate my book a few times.

Who do you think influence your writing the most?

Heather Brewer, author of The Vladimir Tod series is a big inspiration to me. Not sure if she influences my writing, but I totally look up to her as one of the reasons I decided to publish my story.

Are you currently working on a project now?

Yes, I am working on the sequel to Being Human. It's called Being Vampire and it follows a boy named Drew, who is a vampire, but doesn't know it. It's not a direct sequel, as in you have to read Being Human, but they are connected and Tommy will appear in it. I also have a short werewolf story that I'm working on editing called Fixing Ben that I think will be my next published story.

When did you feel like you were an author?

When I got my paperback copy of Being Human. I was in awe. I literally was jumping for joy (which hubby did not share my same enthusiasm when I showed him. LOL)

Are there any new authors who have grasped your interest recently? Why?

I have met a bunch of new authors thanks to twitter. A few whose books I know I have to buy are M.R. Merrick, M.B. Mulhall, Vicktor Alexander, and Daniel A. Kaine. I talk to them all, and I just fell head over heels in love w/ the stories they written and constantly bug them to write faster.

Finally, do you have any advice for aspiring authors?

Relax. Sometimes, as writers, we get so stressed about getting those words down, about getting the book done, that we forget to give ourselves a moment to relax. Write as much as you can, but if you have an off day, don't feel too guilty about setting your story aside and doing something mindless like watch a movie. Your muse needs a break too and when you get back to it, you'll feel nice and refreshed.

Thank you so much for taking the time to visit with us Patricia. But we are not done yet! Fill in the form below for a chance to win a copy of Patricia's first novel, Being Human.

Introducing a New Kind of Cookbook & Book Giveaway

Good morning to everyone on this snowed in day! Yep, Seattle is getting her fair share of the snow dump to my dismay. I have a wedding to get to this evening and I am on set duty around noon, not sure if I will even be able to make it :(

But that is not what I am here to talk about on this snow covered day. As the pic above says, there is a new cookbook in town!!!! And, yours truly has a couple of family recipes and food related stories included! :D I'm so excited to share some of my mom's fun cooking with the world and some of the stories that lead to said recipes. For example, you will find out why for a good 10+ years my family became vegetarians and tuna became the main meat staple in the house :D Try out a variety of recipes from various cultures around the world.

Serving Up Faith is on sale now but I am giving away two copies! Fill out the form below for a chance to win a print copy of Serving Up Faith!

Serving Up Faith
Islamic Writers Alliance
ISBN: 978-0-9819770-7-2
Paperback
242 pages
Price: $14.95




Buy direct from the publisher here or from Amazon here

Ellen's Broom Blog Tour Winner!

The winner of Kelly Starling Lyons' Ellen's Broom is................

Olivia Mitchell

Congratulations Olivia!!!!

Teaser Tuesday (9)

Time for another teaser Tuesday from my story: The Protected Bloodlines :) Enjoy!

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Batu opened the door and the lights came on. A man sat in the center of the room on a crate with his back to the door. He continued to sing, his hands and arms moving slowly around an object. Batu could not see what it was nor did he recognize the person, so, he approached him slowly. When Batu got close enough to reach out and grab the unsuspecting man's shoulder, he turned around and stared Batu straight in the face. It was Zanthar, one of the people Shayhu rescued from the dark void. In his hands he held a piece of metal. The metal was almost like a ball of hot, red clay, assuming forms of his choice. Zanthar smiled at Batu and continued shaping his metal and singing, his eyes completely white. He finally finished and handed the object to Batu. Batu passed the object around in his hands and even tried to bend and mash it in his massive hands, but it was solid and shiny as metal and cold as the room they sat in, nothing like what he saw only seconds ago.

“How did you do that?” Batu asked his eyes lit up as they peered into Zanthar’s face. But Zanthar looked passed him, his eyes wandering, never locking with Batu's. He was blind. Zanthar grinned and leaned toward Batu.
“I will tell you my secret if you do me a favor first,” he said. Zanthar reached his hand out in front of him, searching for Batu’s hand. Batu grabbed hold of him and helped him down off of the container.

“Sure, what do you need help with?” Batu asked. He could not possibly need help getting down off the container, after all, he got up there on his on.

“Will you take me to see my sister?” he asked, “I have been confined for far too long now and have lost my sight.”

Batu had to restrain a chuckle. Lucky for him, Zanthar could not see his amused  and shocked expression. He had never heard of a person losing his sight because he was confined. But he agreed to help Zanthar find his sister, Zuri. 

Tuesday Tunes: Phineas and Ferb

This week's Tuesday Tunes will cater to my inner child! :D I will admit that I still love to watch cartoons :D One of my all time favorites is Phineas and Ferb. Here are my favorite clips from the show :D Enjoy!!!

Monday Muse: Monday Morning Sparks and No Snow Days!

Hello everyone! Welcome to another fabulous Monday!!! Over at Susanna's blog she is doing a fun Monday Morning Spark where the writer chooses five words to create a piece. Here are my five words, a pic from yesterday and my short piece using the five words. :) 

snow

white

cold

work

play

I woke up this morning to a white covered world. Snow blanketed the roads, trees, pathways and rooftops. As cold as it was, I jumped out of bed to check and see if school would be closed for snow-day. But would you know, no snow day. Instead we were opening up late but not so late that I get a few extra hours. No, we opened at 8:30 just when my shift started. Well, I got to work, ready to play (and learn) with my toddler classroom, all of them! That's right, we were open on MLK day and while many of the parent's had the day off, kids still arrived on time. So, the day went on as usual. We had breakfast, read books, played with musical instruments, learned and matched cut out felt shapes. Outside time was a blast. The little ones had a ball playing out in the white snow despite the cold. Even brought some snow inside to put in our sensory table to play with later. So, even though it was a cold, no snow day, full classroom, kind of work day, I had an awesome day with my toddlers!

Perfect Picture Book Friday: My First Ramadan by Karen Katz

Title: My First Ramadan

Author: Karen Katz

Suitable for ages: 3-8 years

Publisher: Henry Holt and Co. August 7^th 2007

Theme/Topic: Culture, Muslim Holiday, Ramadan, Muslim Festival, Family

Opening:

         

Look! There is the new moon in the sky. Now we        will begin our holiday called Ramadan……

Synopsis: It is time for Ramadan. Follow along with one young boy as he observes the Muslim holiday with his family. This year, he wants to try to fast like the grown-ups do, and even the youngest readers will be interested as he shares his experiences of this special holiday.

Resources:

A Ramadan Collage: http://amuslimchildisborn.blogspot.com/2010/08/ramadan-collage.html

Ramadan themed stamps: http://amuslimchildisborn.blogspot.com/2009/08/ramadan-craft-5-easy-ramadan-stamps.html

Information about Ramadan: http://www.bbc.co.uk/schools/religion/islam/ramadan.shtml

Phases of the Moon Project: http://www.dltk-teach.com/rhymes/moon/mphases.htm

Online Word Search: http://www.islamicplayground.com/Scripts/prodView.asp?idproduct=60

More books about Ramadan for children: http://islam.about.com/od/ramadan/tp/ramadanbooks-kids.htm

Ramadan Preparations and Children’s Activities: http://www.happymuslimah.com/2009/08/ramadan-preparation-and-activities-for.html

More Ramadan Resources:

http://tj-ramadan.tripod.com/ramadanlearning.htm

http://tjramadan.blogspot.com/

http://www.firstschoolyears.com/re/islam/ramadan.htm

Online Games and Activities: http://primarygames.com/holidays/ramadan/ramadan.htm

A Ramadan Alphabet: http://tj-ramadan.tripod.com/aramadanalphabet.htm

Why I like this book:

My First Ramadan is meant to introduce young children to the month of Ramadan, the fasting month for Muslims worldwide and many practices and traditions that happen through out the month. Karen Katz does a wonderful job illustrating and creating a super cute Muslim boy to share his excitement of the month and coming holiday, Eid-ul-Fitr. With all of her books, I just love her illustrations! Little bodies and big round heads. They remind me of a few of my little ones I care for in my toddler classroom! J The text is simple and straightforward. She includes a pronunciation guide for Arabic words through out the book. Like every holiday, Ramadan celebrates traditions, family, friends and the community. It encourages good deeds and virtues, prayer and charity. 

Dreaming of Books Giveaway Hop

Once again, I thank the lovely Kathy at I Am A Reader, Not A Writer for co-hosting this fun giveaway with Martha's Bookshelf.

I have long list of books I am DYING to get my hands on! I dream about them all the time hoping I can either buy them or at least find them in my local library during these tough economic times. So, I thought, instead of picking a book to giveaway, why not let my fabulous followers pick their own book from their wish list! So, up for grabs is a ten dollar gift card from Amazon :D that way you can get the book you've been dreaming of. There is only one rule, fill out the form below then hop on to the next blog for a chance to win more fun prizes! :D  Happy Hopping and Dreaming!! :D

Ellen's Broom Blog Tour

Welcome to day 8 of Ellen's Broom Blog tour. 


I have the honor today to welcome Kelly Starling Lyons back to Of Thoughts and Words to share with us her latest picture book released just this month. Check out my review of Ellen's Broom here. Kelly is an amazing author and I feel blessed to be able to share in her excitement of her newest book! This book is about a young girl who braves a new future without losing her love and pride in her family's heritage. The story is set in the reconstruction era and Ellen teaches us all that some traditions are worth preserving! :)


As part of the blog tour, anyone who leaves a comment on any of Kelly's tour stops will be entered in a drawing for the grand prize - a signed poster of the Ellen's Broom cover and a decorated wedding broom from Stuart's Creations (www.stuartscreations.com). The winner will be drawn on January 16. So make a comment!!! Win that broom! 


Now on to the interview!!! Kelly gives us insight into how her book, Ellen's Broom!!! 


So Kelly, what inspired you to write Ellen’s Broom?


While researching family history in a North Carolina library, I came across a record that opened a new world to me. That document was the 1866 Cohabitation Register of Henry County, VA. In it, formerly enslaved couples listed their antebellum marriages and the names and ages of their children. I was moved deeply.


So many families were torn apart by slavery. Slave holders sold enslaved people - husbands and wives, parents and children -- away from each at will. After slavery ended, some people searched heartbroken for loved ones. But some, like the families in the register, finally saw the law reflect what they knew in their hearts: Their marriages mattered too.


Back then, I didn't know that document contained the seed of a picture book. But later, I shared that story with an editor at the Writers Workshop at Chautauqua. He told me I had a children's book in there. I went back to my room that evening and started imagining a girl growing up at that time.


I saw Ellen, a child whose parents jumped the broom to become husband and wife during slavery and then finally got a chance to celebrate that marriage being legally recognized during Reconstruction. I asked myself what that would mean to Ellen and her family. That's how Ellen's Broom came to be.


How important is keeping or passing on history and traditions?


It's essential. Without passing on history and traditions, they can be forgotten.


How exactly did you research the topic for your picture book?


After finding the cohabitation register and beginning the story, I realized I had a lot of work to do. I needed to learn more about the historical period in which the registration took place and the families living then. I read Freedmen's Bureau letters where officers described the way freedmen and women responded to the news that their marriages would be registered. I read slave narratives, especially those that referenced marriage. I also read a wonderful article by African American geneaology specialist, Reginald Washington, that talked about cohabitation registers. You can check it out here: http://www.archives.gov/publications/prologue/2005/spring/freedman-marriage-recs.html?template


Finally, after my story was completed, I shared the draft with historians to make sure it hit the mark.


What is the most important thing you would like your readers to gain from reading Ellen’s Broom?


I would like them to gain an appreciation for the love and faith that carried families like Ellen's through slavery and into the future. Daniel Minter did a beautiful job interpreting the story through his illustrations. You can see in their faces what having the opportunity to register their marriages meant to the couples and their children. I want readers to leave feeling inspired.


If Ellen were here with us today, what encouraging advice would she share?


She would say, "Never forget where you came from. That's part of what makes us who we are." You can't appreciate what you have without knowing what you came through to get it. She would encourage us to learn our history and pass it on.
*************************


Isn't Kelly just amaaaaaaaaaaazing!!?? And isn't Ellen just adorable!? :D I bet you all thought that was the end of the post :D
Well, guess what! There is a book giveaway to giveaway :D enter to win a copy of "Ellen's Broom," from Of Thoughts and Words!!! 

Tuesday Tunes: Child of the Library

Are you a child of the library? I was practically raised in the library. It was literally my second home. I was there so much, the head librarian use to let me check in/out books for other patrons. I was officially an unofficial assistant librarian (since I was too young to be one officially :D) Please enjoy this song and the message it gives shares. It certainly brought up some wonderful memories of my own childhood library days!

Keep libraries open!! Support your local library.

Teaser Tuesday (8) Dark Life by Kat Falls

Here is one of the latest books I am reading. It is a middle grade novel that caught my eye because of the striking book cover! I should never stroll through a bookstore while I'm still reading. *shakes head* At the time, I was reading Medusa by Clive Cussler and had a stack of other books to be read that all included sea life/ocean themes and as I walked down the aisles to kill my one hour lunch break, this jumped out at me.  The very title, Dark Life, and subtitle, BEWARE THE DEEP (not seen on this pic), pulled me over to the display like a moth to a flame! Well, I finally got done with my to be read stack and pulled this off my bookshelf.

***************************

I should have seen them coming, even this deep. I should have known the squid had squirted its radiant goo to divert a predator. And now my helmet's crown lights served as an even brighter beacon. With a jab to my wrist screen, I snapped them off, but it was too late - I couldn't unring that dinner bell.

***************************

Monday Muse: A quote to start the week!

Is this true or is this true! All the books (and I have a ton of them!) and writing tips in the world will not get me published unless I learn the craft and implement everything I learn. But there is so much out there, it feels daunting, and at times, confusing. Especially when sometimes those tips contradict other instruction, tips and techniques. Not to mention all the technological advances in the publishing industry. So, instead of ripping my hair out, I'm taking every resource I have, books, web links, author and blogger friends, writing buddies, critique partners and writing conferences and I'm starting at the beginning. I am going to build my foundations first. Get the craft, write, write, write, read, read, read, revise, revise, revise and write some. And one day, I will turn those sticks of resources into a strong and sturdy ladder that will get me over the hurdles and into the world of publishing AND keep my sanity and sense of humor. :D

How about you writer friends, how do you make your resources work for you, not overwhelm you?

Perfect Picture Book Friday: Ellen's Broom by Kelly Starling Lyons

I know this is late but please bear with me :/ been one of those weeks!

Title: Ellen’s Broom

Author: Kelly Starling Lyons

Publisher: G.P. Putnam Jan 5, 2011

Ages: 5-8 Grades: K and up

Theme/Topic: family, traditions, history, slavery, reconstruction era

Opening and Synopsis:

…..Sunday morning, Ellen sat on the front pew with her family. She wiggled on the wooden seat, trying to get comfortable. But she knew not to say a word. Her people no longer had to worship at the back of the master’s church or sneak to the woods for prayer meetings. Slavery days were over….

Ellen always knew the broom resting above the hearth was special. But after it’s announced in church that the marriages of former slaves will be registered, she hears more about why it matters so much. For her mama and papa, who could be sold away at a master's whim and whose union had no legal protection, jumping the broom was to a way show their commitment to being husband and wife. Now, as the whole family travels to the courthouse dressed in their best, Ellen carries the broom with them. With love, ingenuity and pride, she finds a way to celebrate her parents' right to be legally married and remember their past.

Resources: Companion Craft and Discussion Guide ( http://www.kellystarlinglyons.com/books/onemillion/documents/EllensBroomDiscussionActivityGuide.pdf ) Jumping the Broom Coloring Page ( http://www.kellystarlinglyons.com/books/onemillion/documents/jumping.pdf ) Parade Coloring Page  ( http://www.kellystarlinglyons.com/books/onemillion/documents/parade.pdf )  Word Search ( http://www.kellystarlinglyons.com/books/onemillion/documents/EllensBroomwordsearch.pdf ) and more ( http://www.kellystarlinglyons.com/books/onemillion/EllensBroom.html )

Why I like this book: This is a wonderful story about family and the meaning of freedom. Ellen’s Broom is told through the voice of Ellen, a young girl, as she witnesses her parents become legally husband and wife. She has always heard the story about the broom above her fireplace but when she realizes the importance as she watches married ex-slave couples get marriage certificates, including her mother and father, she decides it is only right that her parents jump the broom again to celebrate. But her father thinks the tradition is from the past and that it should stay there now that they are free. But Ellen reminds him how important the broom is and vows she will “jump the broom” when she grows up and gets married too. Kelly did an amazing job creating the lovable character Ellen, a character children can easily connect with. With Ellen, children and their parents are taken on a historical journey through a page in our history. The artwork in the book is very striking. The illustrator, Daniel Minter, used block-printing method for his illustrations. It is the first time I have seen such a technique and it is simply beautiful. 

Monday Muse: 2012, I'm Ready for You!!

Happy New Years from Seattle, Wa!!!
Here is wishing everyone peace, happiness, joy and prosperity in 2012 :)

Happy New Year everyone!! I am so pumped for this new year. God-willing, 2012 will be a good year for us all. I have a lot on my plate for this year and I am looking forward to trying my best to accomplish it ALL.  What is in store for this year?

Well for starters, a new cookbook will be released this month and I have a few family recipes and stories that are included in it!!!! :D This cookbook includes traditional and family recipes from around the world. It also has cooking tips, inspirational stories and healthy cooking and eating articles.

Last year (so odd saying that when it has only been two days! :D) I participated in the PiBoIdMo and came up with some wonderful picture book ideas. This year, it is my goal to turn those ideas into picture book manuscripts (first drafts of course) So far to date, I have one completed draft!!!  One down and 11 more to go!!! :D

I will continue to participate in Susanna L. Hill's wonderful project of collecting picture books that not only entertain children's imagination but engage and educate as well. This list of picture books is unique in that it provides educational resources and activities parents, home schoolers and teachers can use in the classroom and at home. You may find the complete list here at Just Right Books

I have a feeling 2012 will see the emergence of some really awesome new book titles, self and traditionally published. I hope to continue to offer interviews of newly published authors to help support the cause of introducing new books and authors to the reading community. If you are a new author or have a new book releasing this year, send me your contact info and I will get back to you to set up an interview to publish here on Of Thoughts and Words. :)

Also coming this way are book reviews, writing prompts, giveaways, teasers and more!! 

Here is to a fabulous new year!!!!

God bless each and everyone of us

 and keep us all happy and healthy!!

Superstar Blogger Award!!

I would like to give this award to the following bloggers that I have come to enjoy following. 2011 has been an amazing year for me. I have met so many fellow writers that have really inspired me and pushed my work forward. Thank you all and I hope you accept this award. The only rule, should you choose to accept this award, it pay it forward. Find at least five blogs that you have found over the past year and show them some love! :)

and the winners of this award goes to........ drum roll please ...........

1. Susanna L Hill
2. The Write Soil
3. Something to Write About
4. Juliana Brandt
5. Muslim Spirit by Fida

Mid-Winters Eve Blog Hop Winner!!!!!!

I would like to announce the winner of the Mid-Winters Eve Blog Hop Giveaway!!! 

And the $10 Barnes & Noble Gift Card goes to.......

Drum Roll Please.........

Katie W

Congratulations Katie!!!!!! :)

Teaser Tuesday (7) short story

Hi everyone, another Teaser Tuesday here. Today I decided to post one of my short Nano stories I drafted during the month. It is part of a collection of stories about a ship and its inhabitants on a journey through space on their way to a new home.

10) The Runaway

He sat in the tightest and darkest corner of the belly drinking synthesized tea from an old woman’s shop. The belly was the term the lottery population gave to the central pavilion designated for their eating area, market place, entertaining, and other activities. Surrounding the ‘belly’ the population were allowed to have essential shops like tailors, tea makers, tutors, and etc. The center of the pavilion was considerably lower than the leveled terraces that held tables and benches. The center had a stage where poets, speakers, singers, storytellers and other entertainers stood and gave performances or speeches. 

A woman and child walked pass him. Her face was pale, and covered with a dark blue bruise. The child she carried was pale and lifeless and red scar going down his face. He gasped in horror. The woman stopped and stared at him. “Is something wrong?” she asked him. He looked at her again to find it was only an illusion. Her tan skin and frightened olive eyes stared at him. She held her fidgeting baby who did not like the look of him. “Sorry,” he said dropping his head. A man walked onto the stage and began reciting poetry. “The man without a past, is a man with an unknown future,” the poet said in a far-east country dialect. The man sat with his eyes down and ears alert. He was a man without a past. At least, it was a past he desperately wanted no one to know about. 

He boarded the Najad under the name of Ali Makhtoom. He was careful to avoid the identification scanners. Passing through one would have given him away immediately to the guards posted to check each passenger. Ali Makhtoom had been a loner ever since he stepped out of his ASE pod. The only contact he made was with the teashop owner, an older woman and her grandson. She was kind and did not ask him questions, unlike the others who seemed to be forming friendships and allies. He knew some of these people; in fact, he knew most of them. Some directly and others only in passing. Ali Makhtoom could not afford to expose himself, especially to these unfortunate souls.  Neither could he expose himself to the elite class in the upper levels of the Najad. His life depended on his careful preservation of his past. He took a final sip from his tea just as the man left the stage to a soft applause. 

Ali Makhtoom walked up the steps of the ‘belly’ his eyes lowered avoiding eye contact with anyone. He walked with a stealth and quick determination. I need to get to my pod. I will be safe in my pod. A stranger walked by brushing his shoulder and knocking his hood from his head exposing it. Ali Makhtoom snatched it back up and over his head, shielding his eyes. Ali Makhtoom had very unique eyes. One hazel and one gray. He tried everything to change them but nothing worked. Not even contact lenses worked to even the color. They were deep in color, rich and vibrant. And large. The stranger looked at Ali Makhtoom. “I am so sorry,” he said touching Ali’s shoulder. Ali jerked away. “Never mind,” he said in a soft hoarse voice. The stranger raised his eyebrow. Something was very familiar about him but he continued on his way looking over his shoulder at Ali Makhtoom. Ali exhaled deeply and continued on to his automated sleeping environment pod. His five-minute journey felt like hours passing by neighbors and strangers alike, each time pulling his hood over his head more. 

He made it to his pod. Ali usually convulsed whenever he saw series of numbers and letters. But 268AMK6d never looked so better. The ASE pod quarter was empty. His quarter had six pods. He shared the sleeping quarter with five other men, all single and traveling alone to the new world. Some raised as orphans, others who lost their entire families in the wars, droughts and famines in the poorest cities and villages Earth Alliance nations. Ali Makhtoom took another breath. His quarter neighbors were very nosy. They asked more question than an elderly woman with nothing to do. They all wanted to know about his eyes, why they were so different but yet seemed so familiar, why he was traveling alone, what happened to his family, was he Alliance or Opposition. All these questions he could not answer. Once he did and immediately regretted it. Ali could never lie with out giving himself away. Something always slipped and his lie would fall apart. He vowed to keep quiet to protect his secret. Ali jumped into his pod, laid down and watched the glass dome close over him. He heard the hiss of the pod environment turn on and soon his worries stopped. But his rest was only momentary. 

A loud scream penetrated his sleep and caused his heart monitor to jump. It was so erratic; the pod automatically sent a message to the ship’s doctor on call that evening, Dr. Shuaib. Ali’s body jerked in the pod. It was their faces again, those horrifying images of his past. Images that haunted his dreams and caused him to hallucinate when he was awake. He heard a hiss again and was soon rescued from his nightmare. Ali Makhtoom opened his eyes. Dr. Shuaib stared down at him. “As Salaamu Alaikum,” he said, helping him sit up in the pod. “How long has this been happening?” he asked Ali. Ali shrugged his shoulder. “Not for a while,” he lied. No sooner had he spoke, Dr. Shuaib checked the computer screen then raised his eyebrows then looked back at Ali. “That is not what your sleep history says,” he said sternly. “Why have you not come to see a doctor sooner,” he asked taking out a stethoscope and light tool to check his eyes. His heart rate was back to normal but Dr. Shuaib stood in front of him a very long time staring him in the eyes. 

He once knew a research doctor who had unique eyes just like Ali Makhtoom. This doctor worked in the field of Germ and Biological Warfare in the Alliance. The doctor helped other scientists create diseases that would attack their enemies and take down cities and armies in a manner of days. The Earth Alliance turned a blind eye when the doctor and other scientists used enemy combatants from other nations and the opposition rebels within the Earth Alliance nations. Sometimes, they even used poor unfortunate souls of the impoverished city slums as their subjects while testing their different military grade agents. Dr. Shuaib shook his head. This could not be the same person. That doctor was a woman. Dr. Muna Rashid went missing. Some say the doctor had killed so many innocent poor women, elderly and children, Dr. Muna went crazy, turned on the other scientists and the Alliance guards protecting the lab. Then the doctor disappeared. “Come with me to the medical lab,” Dr. Shuaib, “I will need to do some blood work on you and perhaps keep you over….,” “No. I am fine,” Ali Makhtoom said jumping down from his sleeping pod. “I am okay, really. It was just a bad dream.” It took a minute for the doctor to regain his composure but finally found his voice. “I really should see you in my lab. This could be very serious.” Ali looked down, “Please doctor, let me be. I am fine. Truly I am.” 

The doctor knew all about secrets. This man was hiding something, something he wanted to leave back on their dying world. He was looking for a new start a new future. Dr. Shuaib knew a lot about new starts and how it saved his future. He nodded his head; picked up his things and left. Ali Makhtoom shuddered. Close, much too close. A blood test would have ruined him! Ali could not sleep, he feared his nightmares would return with the hiss of the ASE pod. So, he went back to the ‘belly’. Most of the shops were closed but the teashop was still open. The belly was ghostly empty tonight. He went to get a cup of tea from the kind old lady. She was not there; her grandson was there clearing away for the night. But Ali was a loyal customer, so he made a cup of tea for him to sip on quietly in the empty ‘belly’. 

Ali sat for a while then the old woman came and sat by him with a cup of tea. She smiled sympathetically at him. Wide eyed he stared at her. Even a woman of her age would never come sit with a strange man. His heart began to pound as she looked at him with a knowing gaze. She slowly pulled up her sleeve and showed him an old, bruised scar. Just above the scar was something burned into her skin. Letters and numbers. She smiled but her eyes hid a sadness that he could never wash away. “It is okay, Dr. Muna,” she said covering her arms again. “Because of you, my grandson and I along with many other children escaped that awful research lab. I will forever keep your secret.”

Mid-Winters Eve Blog Hop

Thank you I Am A Reader, Not A Writer and Oasis For YA for hosting this blog hop!!! Up for grabs is a $10 dollar Barnes and Noble gift card. Fill out the form below then check out the over two hundred + blogs who are participating in this hop.

Happy Hopping!!!

Tuesday Tunes: What are Words- Chris Medina

As some of you may know, I LOVE Ahmir and the variety of covers they do of different songs. I happened to hear a song they did of Chris Medina's "What are Words." AWESOME! They told a little bit about his story but not much so I googled it. Oh. My. Goodness! What a touching story it was. Chris Medina's fiance was injured in a car accident but he stood by her side and sang this really nice song. I started to post their video but when I found this one of Chris Medina singing it, I teared up. :) I think you all will enjoy it! :)




If you would like to listen to Ahmir's cover and tribute, go here.

Donate to the Juliana Recovery Fund here:
http://www.laurusfoundation.org/help-juliana-ramos.php

Purchase Chris Medina's "What Are Words" on iTunes to help support Juliana too! Produced and written by Rodney Jerkins:
http://itunes.apple.com/us/album/what-are-words-single/id422369478 

Monday Muse: Winner of the Spruce Knoll for Endangered Species Giveaway!!

Last week, Heather McCorkle took her special edition of The Secret of Spruce Knoll, a Channeler novel on tour. Along with an added chapter and deleted scenes, what makes the book so special is that proceeds from the sales of the book will go to a charity that protects and preserves endangered species. If you visited my blog while she was here, you would have seen that I chose the polar bear (which we are learning about this week in my toddler classroom :D Tune in later this week for some toddler polar bear art :D) You would also know that I hosted a book giveaway in honor of this fabulous and talented author and her wonderful book. Well, today I announce the winner of the book giveaway!!!!!!!!! [sorry it took so long :( ]

And the winner is ......................... 

Patricia J O'Brien

Congratulations Patricia!! Thank you for your participation and support. Polar Bears everywhere thank you too :)

Perfect Picture Book Friday: In the Garden with Dr. Carver

Title: In the Garden with Dr. Carver 

Author: Susan Grigsby

Publisher: Albert Whitman & Company; Sept 1, 2010

Suitable for: 7-9, Grades: 2-4

Theme/Topics: non-fiction, history, biography, botany, science.

Summary: Sally is a young girl living in rural Alabama in the early 1900s, a time when people were struggling to grow food in soil that had been depleted by years of cotton production. One day, Dr. George Washington Carver shows up to help the grownups with their farms and the children with their school garden. He teaches them how to restore the soil and respect the balance of nature. He even prepares a delicious lunch made of plants, including "chicken" made from peanuts. And Sally never forgets the lessons this wise man leaves in her heart and mind. Susan Grigsby's warm story shines new light on an African American scientist who was ahead of his time.

Links to resources:

In the Garden with Dr. Carver Coloring Pages; 

In the Garden with Dr. Carver Teaching Guide. 

Why I like this book: Engaging, entertaining and education. I love the watercolor illustrations and the abundant depiction of nature in the story. The illustrations also tell a story of their own that are great for discussions after story time. The story is great to teach children the importance of how we treat and care for nature. It promotes love for science and botany. “Listen to the plants, they will tell you what they need.”

Find more perfect picture books here.

Gift Card Giveaway Winner

I am pleased to announce the winner of the Gift Card Giveaway Winner

Throuthehaze

Congratulations!!!!!!

Teaser Tuesday (6)

Happy Tuesday!! I am here again with another teaser from the story, "The Protected Bloodlines." Enjoy!

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The Mat’hool beasts shape-shifted into humanoid form, all except for Batu’s guardian, he dropped to the ground breathing heavily.

“What is wrong with him?” Batu asked jumping to his feet and rushing to his guardian’s side.

“He is badly injured,” Unis said, “to change into a humanoid form now would kill him. 

Batu fell to his knees and wrapped his arms around his guardian’s massive neck. He knew there was nothing in his medicine bag that could help his Mat’hool.

“Allah give you strength; I will not leave you here to die.”

Everyone was quiet for a moment, only the short, heavy breathing of Batu’s guarding echoed in the silent cold cavern. 

Siham stood up, “On the Taharan home world, I told you that I was not convinced of you and your people, but that is not the case now. You have all proven yourselves worthy by devoting your lives to your mission and to each other.” 

Siham walked over to the largest of the cave beasts, he passed his hand over its large bent head then called into the tunnel. Another cave beast came out. The Mat’hool stood up. Something about this beast was different. Nusa sensed it too. In fact, she could not sense this beast’s hakana at all. The feeling vaguely reminded her of another creature whom she could not sense. The cave beast walked over to Batu’s guarding. It sniffed Batu’s hand then touched his guardian. Immediately, it turned into a white luminescent fluid. It absorbed Batu’s guardian. The two beasts that joined the attack late also joined the fluidic ball growing in size. Aidil, Tajeej and Unis stepped up to the ball then turned into their liquid state and joined as well.

“They are Mat’hool?” Yuli asked.

Siham smiled, “Yes. They are. But these,” he said patting the beast beside him, ”are the cave beasts of Senora." 

Tuesday Tunes: I Believe Maher Zain and Irfan Makki

I love Maher Zain!! He came to Seattle and did a little concert for our local mosque. It was really nice. He sang all my favorite songs. While searching for one his newest songs he sang for us that night, I found this one and found another really nice artist, Irfan Makki. This song does have a more religious tone to it but I think the words and theme of the song are very uplifting. :) Should you decide to listen to it, I hope you enjoy it. It's really pretty.

Monday Muse: Cavalia!!!

Coming in January to Seattle! I so want to see this. With the tickets so expensive (for my current budget) I am actually saving up for a nice close seat :D I love horses. I had one growing up and I miss riding and caring for them.

Cavalia at a glance: Cavalia is a mix of equestrian and performing arts, multimedia and special effects. It is often labeled an equestrian ballet, Cavalia is a spectacular and moving tribute to the relationship between men and horses throughout history, a dream of freedom, cooperation and harmony. In a fairy tale setting filled with poetry and emotion, the show innovatively integrates acrobatics, dance, aerial stunts, live music and equestrian arts. 

I am really looking forward to it. I'm curious, has anyone seen the show? What did you think about it? Was it as magical as it looked like in the commercials? :D