Saturday, December 24, 2011

Merry Christmas!


May the birth of our Savior bring you much joy and peace this Christmas season.

Wednesday, December 21, 2011

Little Shepherd VBT Ends Today


I feel blessed to have so many wonderful friends. The Little Shepherd VBT ends today with this stop at Cafe of Dreams. April has been one of the greatest supporters of Pump Up Your Book and my writing. It is because of wonderful friends like her that I was able to tour for 3 1/2 months last year and for a month and a half this year. I'm excited that next year I will be touring with a new book, but I will never forget this first one that is near and dear to my heart.

Today I wrote a Letter to Santa. It's a blend of serious and funny, but I think it captures the way many writers feel, especially this time of year. I hope you'll drop by at http://www.cafeofdreamsbookreviews.com/2011/12/guest-post-letter-to-santa-by-cheryl.html

Thanks for following along during my 2011 Little Shepherd VBT. I wish you and your family a blessed Christmas season.

Cheryl

Friday, December 16, 2011

Little Shepherd VBT December - Day 7


I am so excited. I am guest blogging at this beautiful blog titled, The Christmas Spirit. What a perfect blog for a Christmas lover like me.  Michelle wrote up a lovely review of Little Shepherd to go with my guest post about Christmas Spirit. I hope you'll check it out at http://christmasspirit-truebookaddict.blogspot.com/2011/12/sharing-joy-guest-post-with-author.html

I wanted to remind everyone that today is the big Facebook party. I'll be there starting around 4 PM Eastern if you want to drop by and see if you can pick up some great prizes. Details are at http://www.pumpupyourbook.com/2011/11/20/pump-up-your-books-1st-annual-holiday-extravaganza-facebook-chat-party/

Thanks.

Cheryl

Thursday, December 15, 2011

Little Shepherd VBT December - Day 6


Talented author Pamela S. Thibodeaux hosts me today at her blog. One of the things I feel is important is for parents to teach their children how to live a life of service. This article includes some ideas on how to make that happen. Hope you'll check it out at http://pamswildroseblog.blogspot.com/2011/12/virtual-book-tour-cheryl-c-malandrinos.html

Remember, I'll be participating tomorrow in Pump Up Your Book's 1st Annual Holiday Extravaganza Facebook Chat Party. The party starts at 4 P.M. Eastern. Over 40 authors are participating and giving away great prizes. You can find the details at http://www.pumpupyourbook.com/2011/11/20/pump-up-your-books-1st-annual-holiday-extravaganza-facebook-chat-party/

Hope to see you there!

Tuesday, December 13, 2011

Win A Copy of Little Shepherd at Pump Up Your Book’s 1st Annual Holiday Extravaganza Facebook Chat Party!


This year's virtual book tour for Little Shepherd ends Friday. To celebrate another successful tour, I am participating in Pump Up Your Book’s 1st Annual Holiday Extravaganza Facebook Chat Party! I'll be one of more than 50 authors who toured with Pump Up Your Book in December. Most of them are gathering on Facebook on Friday, December 16th to chat with fans and give away great prizes. The party kicks off at 4 P.M. Eastern.

I'll be giving away two copies of Little Shepherd at the party: one printed copy to a resident of the United States and one PDF copy to an international winner.

Find the details at http://www.pumpupyourbook.com/2011/11/20/pump-up-your-books-1st-annual-holiday-extravaganza-facebook-chat-party/

Hope to see there!

Little Shepherd VBT December - Day 5


We took the girls on a short trip to New York City this weekend, but now it's back to work. Today you'll find a lovely review of Little Shepherd by Mandie at Taking Time for Mommy. Mandie runs a wonderful blog and I'm so thrilled she wanted to review my book.

You can find her review at http://takingtimeformommy.com/2011/12/little-shepard-book-tour-and-review/ Feel free to stop by and let me know you dropped in.

Thanks.

Cheryl

Friday, December 9, 2011

Little Shepherd VBt - December Day 4


Today Little Shepherd is reviewed at Mom is the Only Girl. And what a review it is! Nothing like happy dancing on a Friday. Here's a blurb:

"This is a great addition to our collection of Christmas stories, but will be kept out throughout the year, too!"

To read the entire review, please visit http://momistheonlygirl.blogspot.com/2011/12/little-shepherd-book-review.html

Thursday, December 8, 2011

Little Shepherd VBT - Days 2 and 3

It's hard to keep promoting when you're sick, but promote you must. This virtual book tour has been another great success so far. Little Shepherd has made the Amazon bestsellers list in its category two times since the tour started. I was just looking at my sales information over there and copies were sold in Utah. I don't even know anyone there. Being an author can be fun sometimes.

So, this week's tour has been a challenge. Between spending time in bed, rescheduling one tour stop, and then another site being down, not as much touring is going on as usual.

On Wednesday, I visited The Hot Author Report. Here's where I realized how overwhelmed I've been since moving back home after losing power at the end of October. I thought I sent the host something, but I didn't. Luckily she posted a spotlight for me.



If you haven't read an excerpt or any review blurbs from the book, you can do so at http://www.thehotauthorreport.com/little-shepherd-virtual-book-tour-november-and-december-2011



Today, my good friend Vanessa from Coffee and a Keyboard was kind enough to ask me back to guest blog. I wrote up this silly little post about how motherhood and writing are similar. You can catch that one at http://vrleavitt.com/?p=981

Tomorrow I should be at Mom's the Only Girl.

I hope you're having fun gearing up for the holidays. I'm a bit behind in my shopping, but with Advent in full swing, we're trying to get the kids to focus on others and not so much on what Santa will place in their stockings.

Tuesday, December 6, 2011

Little Shepherd VBT December - Day 1


My Little Shepherd VBT kicks off this month with a guest post at the blog of Joylene Nowell Butler. She's a Canadian author and friend who I've come to know thanks to the WWW. I do my best to come up with  posts that reflect the hosting blog and its theme, so I'm talking about writing, nature and family. Please visit me at http://cluculzwriter.blogspot.com/2011/12/christmas-wish-from-cheryl-malandrinos.html

If you would like to purchase a copy of Little Shepherd for your little one, you can do so at:

 
Autographed copies may be ordered directly through the Books page on my website.

Wednesday, November 23, 2011

Little Shepherd VBT Day 17



The final stop of November's portion of the Little Shepherd VBT is at Coffee and a Keyboard, where Vanessa provides her thoughts on the book. This is what she starts off by saying, "Little Shepherd is an enchanting story!" You can read her entire review at http://vrleavitt.com/?p=936

My virtual book tour will pick up again on Monday, December 5th.

Wishing you and your family a blessed Thanksgiving.

Tuesday, November 22, 2011

Little Shepherd VBT - Day 16


Does it seem a bit silly to include your own blog during your virtual book tour? Probably, but I hate empty spots in a tour. They glare at me every time I glance at my schedule, taunting me to do something about it.

I've now been on tour for 16 days. Book promotion is a tough gig--even when you know what you're doing. This year, I decided to tour for two months instead of three. I'm glad I did, because we had that awful snowstorm at the end of October and I was without power for a week. By tomorrow, I think I'll finally be all caught up.

So, what's different about touring this year versus last?

  • I'm not checking my Amazon stats. Last year I tracked my stats daily until Christmas. It was fun-especially when Little Shepherd reached their bestsellers list in its category multiple times. It's not that I don't care now, it's just not something I feel is good to focus too much on. I would rather focus on writing.
  • I reached out to more reviewers that I didn't know. Luckily, the majority of the feedback on the book remains positive. It's tough to ask a totally objective person to review your work, but it's a necessary part of book promotion.
  • I'm not running huge giveaways. Last year I put together gift baskets to raffle off at the end of my tour. I think smaller prizes at the end of each month instead of two large prizes at the end of the entire tour schedule would have made more sense. I didn't find the giveaways increased the number of comments on my blog stops or greatly influenced readers to purchase the book.
I love book promotion, and I love helping spread the word about great books. I think the sheer number of blogs I run and contribute to can attest to that. I hope you enjoy following me along the tour trail. If you've purchased Little Shepherd, I would love to hear your thoughts. You can always reach me at ccmal(at)charter(dot)net.

Wishing you and your family a blessed Thanksgiving.

Cheryl

Monday, November 21, 2011

Little Shepherd VBT - Day 15



Today I am sharing my mother-in-law's recipe for Kourabiedes, which are Greek sugar cookies. Author J Q Rose has a month long feature running that offers her readers some great recipes. If you would like to read about this traditional cookie that is usually made at Christmas time, please visit at http://jqroseauthor.blogspot.com/2011/11/recipe-cheryl-malandrinos-greek-sugar.html

A wonderful thing J Q Rose did was compile all the recipes that will be featured this month into a recipe collection. This PDF contains recipes from authors such as:

  • Kathleen S. Allen
  • Roseanne Dowell
  • Dianne Hartsock
  • Heather Haven
and more! Fifteen authors are sharing their holiday traditions with you!

If you would like a FREE copy of the Good Eats, Great Reads Recipe Collection, please email me at ccmal(at)charter(dot)net.

Sunday, November 20, 2011

Interview on the 400th Episode of A Book and A Chat with Storyheart


I had the distinct honor of being a special guest on A Book and A Chat tonight. Today was Barry's 400th episode, which is very exciting. I hope you'll listen a bit to our interview--though I keep saying I am going to stop saying, "you know" every time I have one of these and when I listen in afterwards all I pick up is the millions of "you knows."

Enjoy!


Listen to internet radio with A Book and a Chat on Blog Talk Radio

Friday, November 18, 2011

Little Shepherd Reviewed at Christian Children's Book Review


A few months ago I sent a copy of Little Shepherd to Christian Children's Book Review. They were kind enough to write up a review on November 10th. Here is some of what their reviewer had to say:

"I like the author showing Obed at work. He hears the wolves howl, scans the hills for danger, shivers in the cold, and warms himself by a fire. That sets the mood for the reader. The shepherds show great faith by leaving everything behind and immediately heading to Bethlehem. I also liked the description of the manger scene and Mary and Joseph."

You can read the entire review at: http://ccbreview.blogspot.com/2011/11/little-shepherd.html

Little Shepherd VBT - Day 14


Inkyblots is a blog that talks about writing--something you know I love to chat about. You can find my article on setting goals that work for you there today at http://www.inkyblots.com/set-goals-that-work-for-you-by-cheryl-c-malandrinos/


I'm also interviewed today by Dorothy Thompson at Examiner, talking about another one of my favorite things: Christmas! Our interview appears at http://www.examiner.com/publishing-in-virginia-beach/decking-the-halls-with-children-s-fiction-author-cheryl-malandrinos

Hope to see you there!

Thursday, November 17, 2011

Little Shepherd VBT - Day 13


Today I had the pleasure of having Little Shepherd reviewed by a blogger I met through a networking site. Here's part of what she had to say:

"The Little Shepherd is a sweet Christmas book about Obed, a very young shepherd whose father has just given him a flock of sheep to guard. But Obed's first night guarding sheep is not an ordinary night."

Hope you'll stop by Shaky Mommy and read the entire review at http://shakymommy.blogspot.com/2011/11/little-shepherd-childrens-book-review.html

Wednesday, November 16, 2011

Little Shepherd VBT - Day 12

Stopping at three places today. Gee, I guess my friends are right--I am all over the Internet.



First, you can find me at Jennifer's wonderful blog, One Day at a Time, where she offers a review of Little Shepherd. Here's a tiny bit of what she had to say:

"I thought the retelling of Luke 2:8-16 was commendable in its approach.  The tale is delightful and faith affirming."

You can read the entire review at http://www.creatingchildhoodmemories.com/2011/11/little-shephard-by-cheryl-malandrinos.html

Next, I stop by Let's Talk Virtual Book Tours, where I am interviewed on one of my favorite topics.


You can find this interview at http://letstalkvirtualbooktours.wordpress.com/2011/11/16/talking-virtual-book-tours-with-cheryl-malandrinos/

Finally, my friend talented author JoAnn Carter, is hosting me today. I share my article titled, "Help Your Family Make the Holidays Meaningful." This post is at http://home.comcast.net/~jo.glenncarter/site/?/blog/view/221/

Please stop by and leave a comment. I would love to chat with you.

Monday, November 14, 2011

Little Shepherd VBT 2011 - Day 10



Today I am stopping by one of my favorite character blogs, The Plot. Today there is a blurb about Little Shepherd, an excerpt, review blurbs, and information about me. You can find it all at: http://theplotline.wordpress.com/2011/11/14/little-shepherd-by-cheryl-malandrinos/

Hope you'll stop back tomorrow, where Obed's father is interviewed.

Thanks!

Friday, November 11, 2011

Little Shepherd VBT - Day 8 Whoops!


You're probably sick of hearing me using the storm as an excuse lately, but it really messed up my schedule in all kinds of ways. Being without power for a week and having to live somewhere else was not fun.

My good friend, Nicole Langan, founder of Tribute Books, was kind enough to interview me on Thursday at her Tribute Books Reviews and Giveaways blog, but I totally forgot about it. How bad am I?

So, I hope you'll stop by and see what we talked about. You can find our interview at http://tributebooksreviews.blogspot.com/2011/11/cheryl-malandrinos-little-shepherd.html

Thanks!

Cheryl

Little Shepherd VBT - Day 9


I'm visiting the blog of fellow GAP author Nancy Stewart today at http://nancystewartbooks.blogspot.com/2011/11/books-can-educate-and-entertain-by.html where I'm talking about books that educate and entertain. I felt this blog post was a perfect match for her site, since her Bella and Brit books help young readers learn the importance of protecting our marine wildlife and how they can help.

I hope you'll stop by and leave us a comment.

Thursday, November 10, 2011

Little Shepherd VBT 2011 - Day 8


It's been an interesting week for the Little Shepherd VBT 2011. On Monday, I had a great talk with Renee Hand at Stories From Unknown Authors. If you didn't catch our interview live, you can still listen to it at http://www.blogtalkradio.com/storiesfromunknownauthors/2011/11/07/interview-for-little-shepherd-by-cheryl-malandrinos 

My stops for Tuesday and Wednesday had to be rearranged, so here it is Thursday and for a second there I couldn't remember what day it was. It's been hectic here since the power has returned.

I'm visiting the blog today of one of my special online friends, Abi from 4 the Love of Books. She hosted me last year when Little Shepherd came out. She asked me to return this fall for an interview. Talk about dedication, this poor woman is having computer issues at home and has been using whatever computer she can find--her kid's, the library's, etc.--to keep her blog moving along. So, please let her know you appreciate her hard work by stopping by and leaving a comment on our interview at http://myheartbelongs2books.blogspot.com/2011/11/little-shepherd-by-cheryl-malandrinos.html We're running a giveaway for a copy of Little Shepherd, so your comment could get you a FREE copy of the book to put under the tree this year. The drawing will be held the Monday after Thanksgiving, so make sure you stop by right away, before you forget.

Good luck to all who enter!

Friday, November 4, 2011

Little Shepherd VBT 2011 - Day 4


Wow! What a week it has been. Our hometown is still without power and so are many areas of Western Mass and Connecticut. Still, the Little Shepherd VBT 2011 goes on.

I felt blessed to read this wonderful review from Laura at Day By Day in Our World. Here is a quick blurb:

"This is the first children’s book by Cheryl C. Malandrinos and she has done a lovely job of taking the Scripture of Christ’s birth and woven a story featuring a young shepherd who bears witness to this pivotal point in history."

You can read the rest of the review at http://daybydayinourworld.com/2011/11/little-shepherd-review-and-author-qa/

In addition, we are running a giveaway at Day By Day in Our World. A free copy of Little Shepherd would make a lovely gift for your little reader. Details on how to enter can be found at http://daybydayinourworld.com/2011/11/little-shepherd-giveaway-ends-1118/

Good luck to all who participate in our giveaway.

Thursday, November 3, 2011

Little Shepherd VBT 2011 - Day 2


I'm paying a visit to This Little Book of Mine today, where Joy had provided a lovely review of Little Shepherd.

Here's a bit of what she had to say:

"Little Shepherd is an adorable version of the Christmas story written just for children. I love that Cheryl told the story through a small shepherd boy, so even a child can understand what it must have been like on that wonderful special night that Jesus was born. And having the child go with his dad to see the baby Jesus makes this book so very special. And it is simple enough that even my 2 ½ year old niece can understand it."


Little Shepherd can be purchased at the following:

Autographed copies may be ordered directly through the Books page on my website.

Wednesday, November 2, 2011

A Book and A Chat Podcast Postponed


My podcast interview scheduled for Friday, November 4th has been postponed due to continued lack of electricity from the recent snowstorm. I'll let you know when it is rescheduled, as soon as Storyheart and I settle on a new date.

I am still scheduled to appear at Stories from Unknown Authors on Monday, November 7th starting at 1 PM Eastern. Here are the details for that one:

Number you need to call is: (619) 566-0945

Location: http://www.blogtalkradio.com/storiesfromunknownauthors

Thanks for your patience. I hope some of you will call into the show on Monday.

Cheryl

Tuesday, November 1, 2011

Little Shepherd VBT 2011 Starts Today


I'm still working from  my makeshift office after the storm. The good news is we might have power restored earlier than expected. Praying hard.

The Little Shepherd VBT 2011 starts today with this lovely review from Melanie at So Many Books..So Little Time. I hope you'll stop by at http://melanieski.blogspot.com/2011/10/little-shepherd-cheryl-cmalandrinos.html

I'll check in here and there for comments throughout the day, but I'm not online as much as I usually am because I'm still going back and forth between home and here to work on clean up.

All my best,

Cheryl

Monday, October 31, 2011

Little Shepherd 2011 VBT


The Little Shepherd 2011 Virtual Book Tour starts tomorrow. Right now, I am sitting at my in-laws' house, since a freak October snowstorm has left us without power. I'll still be checking it at my stops and traveling around the Internet. Hopefully I'll be back home and things will be a bit more normal by Friday.

Hope to see you around the blogosphere!

Cheryl

Tuesday, November 1st
Wednesday, November 2nd
Book reviewed at Splashes of Joy
Thursday, November 3rd
Podcast interview at A Book and A Chat 6:30 PM Eastern (Lack of electricity may cause rescheduling)
Friday, November 4th
Book reviewed and giveaway at Day By Day in Our World
Monday, November 7th
Podcast interview at Stories from Unknown Authors 1:00 PM Eastern
Tuesday, November 8th
Book reviewed at Unionvale Homeschool
Wednesday, November 9th
Book reviewed at One Day at a Time
Thursday, November 10th
Interviewed at 4 the Love of Books
Friday, November 11th
Guest blogging at Nancy Stewart Books Blog
Monday, November 14th
Book spotlighted at The Plot
Tuesday, November 15th
Guest blogging at The Plot
Wednesday, November 16th
Thursday, November 17th
Book reviewed at Shaky Mommy
Friday, November 18th
Guest blogging at InkyBlots
Interviewed at Examiner
Monday, November 21st
Guest blogging at J Q Rose
Tuesday, November 22nd
Blogging at Little Shepherd
Wednesday, November 23rd
Book reviewed at Coffee and a Keyboard
December dates coming soon!





Tuesday, October 25, 2011

Internet Book Fair Blogfest - Little Shepherd


I am participating in today's Internet Book Fair Blogfest. Let me tell you something about my first children's book, Little Shepherd.

This is the story of five-year-old Obed, who is in the fields watching his first flock. When the angel appears to announce the Savior's birth, all the shepherds are very afraid. After the angels disappear, Obed is relieved to feel the comfort of father's arm around him. That is until father suggests leaving their sheep behind to visit the newborn King. Obed is conflicted. Surely his father wouldn't suggest leaving the sheep unattended, especially with hungry wolves howling in the distance.

Little Shepherd retells the story of the first Christmas from a child's point of view. Obed, like our modern-day kids, must take a risk and step out in faith. And like us, when we step out in faith, Obed is greatly rewarded.

I hope you'll consider Little Shepherd for your young reader this year. The book is geared toward readers ages 4 - 8. You can purchase the book online at:

Autographed copies may be ordered directly through the Books page on my website.

Here is a list of others who are participating in the Internet Book Fair Blogfest. I hope you'll pay them a visit.


1.M.A. Leslie2.Le Vanity Victorienne
3.www.lachesispublishing.com4.Dianne Hartsock
5.Susan Kaye Quinn6.Kai Strand (The Weaver)
7.Kate Avery Ellison8.Nancy Stewart Books Blog
9.AdoraPet Children's Books to Nourish a Happy Mind10.William & Pamela Deen
11.My Sister Is My Best Friend12.REMEMBERING NINE ELEVEN
13.MARIE AND THE SEA TURTLE14.Nancy Lynn Jarvis
15.Donna J. Shepherd16.1 Zany Zoo
17.Shelley Buck Author SIte18.http://tinyurl.com/5rby7oc
19.fiddleeebod20.Urban Mythos
21.The Underwear Dare22.Ashfall
23.A Day in Doha24.The Golden Pathway
25.CLOCKWISE by Elle Strauss26.Jessica Bell @ The Alliterative Allomorph
27.Signs of Trouble28.The Doll by J.C. Martin
29.J.L. Campbell @ The Character Depot30.Once Upon a December Nightmare by Cherie Reich
31.Nicole Zoltack32.Lyon's Legacy by Sandra Ulbrich Almazan
33.The Night Watchman Express by Alison DeLuca34.THE LEGEND OF VICTOR STANDISH
35.Indies are GO!36.The Legacy of Kilkenny
37.Silent No More38.Angela Fristoe @ Turning the Pages
39.The Once and Future Wizard by Tom Averna40.200 SHORTS
41.Screwing Up Time by C.M. Keller42.Connection of the Minds
43.Double the Trouble 44.A Second Chance
45.Ghost Dog of Roanoke Island by C.K. Volnek46.Stranger on the Shore
47.May I Have this Dance48.If I Could Be Like Jennifer Taylor
49.Erotic Deception (Romantic Suspense) by Karen Cote'50.Shadows Steal The Light
51.Reluctant Companions by Christine London52.Hog Wild by Christine London
53.Sunshine Boulevard54.The Turn of the Karmic Wheel, Monica Brinkman
55.Spirit Stealer56.Guinevere: On the Eve of Legend
57.Under the Hat58.Screwing Up Time by C.M. Keller (blog)
59.The Chronicles of Caleath60.Larion Wills/Larriane Wills
61.Nathan's Angel by Melissa Bradley62.Culloden Spirit by Anita Davison
63.Trencarrow Secret by Anita Davison64.Killer Valentine Ball Chris Verstraete
65.Stephen Tremp Breakthrough Blogs 66.The Powers by S. Durham
67.Madeline Sharples @Choices68.Hostage Heart by Chelle Cordero
69.Rachel's Children: Surviving the Second World War70.Hostage Heart by Chelle Cordero
71.Hyphema by Chelle Cordero72.Impeccable
73.45 Minutes by Kristen Young74.Final Sin by Chelle Cordero
75.To Be Continued by Charmaine Gordon76.Now What? by Charmaine Gordon
77.One Pelican at a Time78.http://goo.gl/EWgYg
79.Love's Long Shadow80.Patricia Lynne's Journey Through the Pages
81.Anne Gallagher - Regency Romance Writer82."I Believe"
83.Johanna Garth, urban fantasy, Losing Beauty84.OnWords Blog
85.Getaway by DD Symms86.Jennifer M. Hartsock

Thursday, October 13, 2011

Internet Book Fair Blogfest Coming October 25th!



An author friend referred me to this link at M.A. Leslie's blog. On October 25th we'll be participating in an Internet Book Fair Blogfest. This is right up my alley, as it combines two of my favorite things: book fairs and online book promotion. 

Come back here on October 25th for a special post. I'll be giving away a PDF copy of Little Shepherd to celebrate the event.

Here are other authors who are participating:

1.M.A. Leslie2.Le Vanity Victorienne
3.www.lachesispublishing.com4.Dianne Hartsock
5.Susan Kaye Quinn6.Kai Strand (The Weaver)
7.Kate Avery Ellison8.Nancy Stewart Books Blog
9.AdoraPet Children's Books to Nourish a Happy Mind10.William & Pamela Deen
11.My Sister Is My Best Friend12.REMEMBERING NINE ELEVEN
13.MARIE AND THE SEA TURTLE14.Nancy Lynn Jarvis
15.Donna J. Shepherd16.1 Zany Zoo
17.Shelley Buck Author SIte18.http://tinyurl.com/5rby7oc
19.fiddleeebod20.Urban Mythos


I hope you'll consider visiting them too!

Friday, October 7, 2011

Please Like My Facebook Fan Page



I'm trying to get better about branding and segregating my business information from my author information. To that end, I started a Fan Page. I would appreciate it if you would consider liking my new page at  https://www.facebook.com/#!/pages/Cheryl-C-Malandrinos/170542359697682

Thanks!

Wednesday, September 28, 2011

Why I Love My Library!


There's a lot of talk these days about budget cuts having negative impacts on libraries. As an avid reader since childhood, the public library has been a part of my life since I turned six and applied for my first library card.

My husband and I find ourselves on opposing sides when it comes to libraries. He feels that computers and e-Reading devices have made libraries obsolete. My writing, however, has depended upon libraries in some ways. When I first began exploring writing as a career, I visited the library to browse through magazines I might want to write for. I've borrowed books to supplement online research or for times when I couldn't find the right information online.

Today, I snuck into the library for help with three of my current writing projects. Next month, I'll be pitching a couple of manuscripts at two different conferences. I searched the agencies online and wrote down some of their titles to read. Then I spent time browsing the Internet to find books that might compare to the ones I'll be pitching. I found most of the titles I was looking for, but had to request some assistance from our children's librarian, Elaine.

Not only did she help me find the books I didn't see on the shelf; she went down to the basement to find seasonal titles that were in storage, and when I shared my book ideas with her, she came up with other books that might be comparable. I left the library with a dozen books to browse through that will help me shape my pitches.

And that's why this writer loves her library!

Sunday, August 21, 2011

Book Review: Not Fat Because I Wanna Be by LaNiyah Bailey


A book that shares a powerful message is what you’ll find in Not Fat Because I Wanna Be by LaNiyah Bailey.

Six-year-old LaNiyah is tired of being picked on by her classmates just because she’s different. Even though she eats a healthy diet, she’s still a big girl. She doesn’t know why until her new doctor runs some tests. With the love and support of her family, LaNiyah is able to share her story with her classmates, so they understand the “inside her.”

I’m not sure what amazes me more about this book: that a child of this age is selfless enough to want to be an advocate for others or that she has the courage to write her story and share it with the world. Not Fat Because I Wanna Be is a truly inspiring story that captures the importance of family love and support in tackling the issue of bullying and helping bullied kids to feel good about themselves. As someone who was teased through her school years, I’m very sensitive to this issue. Now, it seems even more dangerous than it was back then. In our local communities we have had two young people in the past three years commit suicide after being subjected to extensive bullying and cyber-bullying.

Six-year-old Bailey tells her story in the first person, which helps the reader connect with her and feel the emotions she feels as the book moves along. Your heart aches when you read the names she is called; just as much as it leaps for joy when her new doctor helps her understand what is going on with her body.  You cheer for her when she courageously answers a mean classmate who asks why she is so fat. And you can’t help but smile when the same girl becomes her best friend.

The artwork is provided by Laura Perez Ricaud. She did a superb job in telling LaNiyah’s story in a visual way. From the cover to the very last page, her illustrations will captivate young readers and encourage questions and discussion points.

Not Fat Because I Wanna Be by LaNiyah Bailey needs to be in all our elementary schools and shared often.  This book can help parents and educators open the door for discussions on tolerance and diversity. I highly recommend Not Fat Because I Wanna Be by LaNiyah Bailey!

  • Paperback: 42 pages

  • Publisher: CreateSpace (March 2, 2011)

  • Language: English

  • ISBN-10: 1461006767

  • ISBN-13: 978-1461006763

  • SRP:  $13.99 paperback (also available in eformats)

  • Monday, August 15, 2011

    Guest Blogging Today at Cafe of Dreams



    My friend, April over at Cafe of Dreams is running a special Summer Memories feature this month. You can find my post at http://www.cafeofdreamsbookreviews.com/2011/08/cheryl-malandrinos-summer-memories.html where I talk about a special vacation my family took when I was only 8. I hope you like it.

    Cheryl

    Thursday, August 4, 2011

    Being Interviewed at One Writer's Journey on August 5th!


    I'm being interviewed at Penny Lockwood Ehrenkranz's blog tomorrow, where I'll be talking about my children's picture book, Little Shepherd.

    Obed is in the hills outside Bethlehem when the angels appear to announce the Savior’s birth. Can he trust that the miracle of the first Christmas will keep his flock safe while he visits the newborn King?

    Here is what early reviews had to say about Little Shepherd:

    “Your first reaction may be, oh goodness another story on the birth of Christ. Toss those thoughts away and immerse yourself and your children into the magical arrival of Christ the Lord. Children’s author, Cheryl C. Malandrinos has re-explored and created a beautiful re-enactment of Christ the Lord’s birth in a unique and awe inspiring rendition which surely will become classical reading in Christian religious school studies and home libraries.


    The old time illustrations expertly created by illustrator, Eugene Ruble will leave you feeling that you journeyed through the countryside with Obed and his fellow shepherds.”

    --Donna McDine, award-winning author of The Golden Pathway

    “Little Shepherd by Cheryl C. Malandrinos is a fresh rendition of the familiar story of the angels appearing to the shepherds in the field and announcing the birth of the Savior. The unique slant to this particular retelling of the scriptural story is that the reader sees the event through the eyes of a little shepherd boy, tending his first-ever flock of sheep. As a grandmother, I would be delighted to read this story to my grandchildren. As such, I recommend it to parents/grandparents/teachers everywhere who wish to bring this passage of scripture to life for impressionable young hearts to understand”.

    –Kathi Macias, radio host and award-winning author of more than 30 books, including the Extreme Devotion series and Valeria’s Cross


    Little Shepherd is available for purchase from:

    Amazon


    Barnes and Noble

    Guardian Angel Publishing

    Indiebound.org

    Autographed copies may be ordered directly through the Books page on my website.
     
    I hope to see you at Penny's blog tomorrow at http://pennylockwoodehrenkranz.blogspot.com/
     
    Thanks!
     
    Cheryl

    Saturday, July 30, 2011

    Little Shepherd Giveaway Winners!


    Congratulations to Donea Lee, who picked up a paperback copy of Little Shepherd during the Christmas in July Giveaway at Putting Words Down on Paper.

    Congratulations also go out to Lynda R. Young who picked up an electronic copy of the book from the same giveaway.

    Look for more chances to win copies of Little Shepherd coming over the next few months. Reminder, I will be going on a virtual book tour in November and December to promote Little Shepherd. You can email me at cg20pm00(at)gmail(dot)com if you are interested in hosting me during my tour with Pump Up Your Book.

    Thursday, July 28, 2011

    Promoting Your Seasonal Book All Year Round--Guest Blogging Today




    I'm visiting Susanne Drazic's Putting Words Down on Paper today at http://susannedrazic.blogspot.com/2011/07/christmas-in-july-with-cheryl-c.html.  This article talks about promoting your seasonal title all year round.

    Leave a comment to win one of two copies of Little Shepherd. Get a head start on your Christmas shopping for the kids!

    Thanks.

    Cheryl

    Friday, July 22, 2011

    Interviewed at Through His Eyes on Saturday, July 23rd


    Dear Friends,

    I wanted to let you know that I'll be interviewed tomorrow at Salena Stormo's lovely blog, Through His Eyes. I'm so thrilled to be there. I hope you'll join me while I spend the weekend at this wonderful blog.

    I'm sure she would appreciate some followers too.

    Blessings to all,

    Cheryl

    Saturday, July 16, 2011

    Little Shepherd VBT 2011 Coming in November and December!



    I will be taking Little Shepherd on a virtual book tour with Pump Up Your Book in November and December. I am looking for appropriate blogs to host me during my tour. Christian fiction bloggers, Mommy bloggers, and those blogs run by churches or Christian schools are of high interest. If you're interested, please leave a comment on this blog post or email me from the Contact page on my website.

    Little Shepherd is available for review in PDF or printed format. Bloggers outside of the United States will receive PDF copies.

    This book is availabe for purchase from:



    Thanks!
    Autographed copies may be ordered directly through the Books page on my website.

    Thursday, June 30, 2011

    Christmas in July at Putting Words Down on Paper!


    Susanne Drazic at Putting Words Down on Paper is running a Christmas in July special feature at her blog. I, along with several other writers, will be participating in this event. Look for interesting articles and great giveaways all month long!

    1ST
    HOST – Susanne Drazic
    2ND
    GUEST – Karina Fabian
    3RD
    GUEST – Barbara Ehrentreu
    4TH
    GUEST – Susan Hornbach
    5TH
    GUEST – Beverly Stowe McClure
    GIVEAWAYS – (1) copy of Just Breeze and (1) copy of Caves, Cannons, and Crinolines (2 WINNERS)
    6TH
    GUEST – Kathy Stemke
    GIVEAWAY – (1) copy of Sh Sh Sh Let the Baby Sleep
    7TH
    GUEST – Shannon Mawhiney
    8TH
    GUEST – J Q Rose
    GIVEAWAY – (1) eBook copy of Sunshine Boulevard
    9TH
    GUEST – Rochelle Weber
    GIVEAWAY – (1) selenite stone and (1) coupon for Rock Bound (whatever format winner chooses)
    10TH
    GUEST – Kim Baccellia
    GIVEAWAY – (1) signed book
    11TH
    GUEST – Paige M. Cummings
    GIVEAWAY – (1) copy of Under The Liberty Oak
    12TH
    GUEST – Dac Crossley
    13TH
    GUEST – Stephen Tremp
    14TH
    GUEST – Chelle Cordero
    GIVEAWAY – (1) .pdf copy of Hyphema
    15TH
    GUEST – Roseanne Dowell
    GIVEAWAY – (1) copy of May I Have This Dance
    16TH
    GUEST – Ann Best
    GIVEAWAY – (1) copy of In the Mirror, A Memoir of Shattered Secrets
    17TH
    GUEST – Sally Royer-Derr
    18TH
    GUEST – Devon Ellington
    GIVEAWAY – 10 page fiction critique
    19TH
    GUEST – Grace DeLuca
    20TH
    GUEST – Dianne Sagan
    GIVEAWAY – (1) copy of one of her books
    21ST
    GUEST – Karen Cioffi
    22ND
    GUEST – Kim Baccellia
    GIVEAWAY – Bookmarkers & cross tats
    23RD
    GUEST – Susan Hornbach
    24TH
    GUEST – Kristin Johnson
    GIVEAWAY -
    25TH
    GUEST – Gail Branan
    GIVEAWAY -
    26TH
    GUEST – Viviane Brentanos
    GIVEAWAY -
    27TH
    GUEST – Karen Cioffi
    GIVEAWAY -
    28TH
    GUEST – Cheryl Malandrinos
    GIVEAWAY – (1) print copy of Little Shepherd and (1) ebook copy of Little Shepherd (2 WINNERS)
    29TH
    GUEST – Charlotte Volnek
    30TH
    GUEST – Billi Wagner
    GIVEAWAY – some type of butterfly jewelry
    31ST
    GUEST – Jennifer Gladen
    GIVEAWAY – (1) autographed copy of A Star in the Night

    Tuesday, June 28, 2011

    Reviews of Children's Books by Clavis Publishing at TC&TBC


    As many of you know, I also run The Children's and Teens' Book Connection. I received a box of books from Clavis Publishing that I reviewed on June 27th at that blog. What I loved about these books is the way that they truly celebrated families and youngsters.

    You can find my reviews at http://childrensandteensbookconnection.wordpress.com/. The titles are:


    Bathing
    Going to the Beach with Lily and Milo
    Going to the Zoo with Lily and Milo
    My Daddy
    Playing
    Ricky is Brave
    Thankyouplease
    The Big Baby Book

    I'll definitely be on the lookout for more titles from this publisher.

    Tuesday, June 14, 2011

    New Look for My Website!


    I'm so excited that I just have to let everyone know. Staci from Blogging Bella Designs created a new look for my website. I had hoped this new look would be ready last year, but I had problems finding someone to tackle the job.

    Staci did a wonderful job and I love the new look. Please visit http://ccmalandrinos.com/ and check it out. I would love to hear your thoughts.

    Thanks!

    Cheryl