Little Shepherd by Cheryl C. Malandrinos

Contributor to Christian Children's Authors

2012-02-15T11:03:00.000-08:00

I am now blogging every 1st and 3rd Friday of the month at Christian Children's Authors. This is a group of Christian authors with a shared enthusiasm for reaching children and their families with our messages of faith, love, and fun. We will address many topics of interest to parents, teachers, caregivers, grandparents, relatives and neighbors who care about children. Please come back to see our progress.

Here are a few categories we plan to include:

Devotions relevant to family life or Christian children’s leaders
Family activities and fun
Family health
Grand-parenting
Book reviews

Please visit us online at http://christianchildrensauthors.com/

Guest Blogging at Strands of Thought Today!

2012-02-10T10:13:00.000-08:00

I'm guest blogging today over at Strands of Thought, a blog run by talented children's author, Kai Strand. For the month of love, I am honoring those who have helped my writing career through the years. You can find my post at http://kaistrand.blogspot.com/2012/02/where-would-i-be-without-you-industry.html I hope you'll stop by to learn of all the great people I've been blessed with.

Guest Blogging at The Steady Hand

2012-01-30T09:19:00.000-08:00

April from The Steady Hand was kind enough to ask me to be a guest blogger this month. You can find my post that includes three quick and easy recipes for busy moms at http://thesteadyhandblog.com/guest-post-quick-easy-recipes-for-busy-moms/

Little Shepherd Giveaway at Books, Products and More!

2012-01-21T13:59:00.001-08:00

I'm running a giveaway over at Books, Products and More! for three printed copies of my book, Little Shepherd. You can find the details at http://booktoursandmore.blogspot.com/2012/01/free-for-all-fridays-little-shepherd.html

Guest Blogging at Cafe of Dreams

2012-01-12T19:17:00.000-08:00

Today I am guest blogging at Cafe of Dreams. I'm talking about my fun and serious goals for 2012. You can find me at http://www.cafeofdreamsbookreviews.com/2012/01/here-i-come-by-cheryl-c-malandrinos.html

April is also running a wonderful feature this year titled, 365 Days of Great Authors and Giveaways. She plans to feature a new author every day of 2012 and there will be a giveaway each day. Don't forget to stop by her blog at http://www.cafeofdreamsbookreviews.com/ to see who she is interviewing.

Merry Christmas!

2011-12-24T19:37:00.000-08:00

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

Little Shepherd VBT Ends Today

2011-12-21T05:38:00.000-08:00

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

Little Shepherd VBT December - Day 7

2011-12-16T07:25:00.000-08:00

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

Little Shepherd VBT December - Day 6

2011-12-15T10:30:00.000-08:00

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!

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

2011-12-13T06:19:00.000-08:00

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

2011-12-13T06:14:00.000-08:00

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

Little Shepherd VBt - December Day 4

2011-12-09T07:15:00.000-08:00

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

Little Shepherd VBT - Days 2 and 3

2011-12-08T20:49:00.000-08:00

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.

Little Shepherd VBT December - Day 1

2011-12-06T09:43:00.000-08:00

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:

Amazon

Barnes and Noble

Guardian Angel Publishing

Indiebound.org

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

Little Shepherd VBT Day 17

2011-11-23T08:10:00.000-08:00

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.

Little Shepherd VBT - Day 16

2011-11-22T00:01:00.000-08:00

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

Little Shepherd VBT - Day 15

2011-11-21T06:41:00.000-08:00

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.

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

2011-11-20T19:31:00.000-08:00

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

Little Shepherd Reviewed at Christian Children's Book Review

2011-11-18T11:45:00.000-08:00

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

2011-11-18T07:13:00.000-08:00

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!

Little Shepherd VBT - Day 13

2011-11-17T19:23:00.000-08:00

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

Little Shepherd VBT - Day 12

2011-11-16T06:23:00.000-08:00

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.

Little Shepherd VBT - Day 11

2011-11-15T06:12:00.000-08:00

As I mentioned yesterday, Obed's Father is stopping by The Plot today to share his thoughts. I hope you'll check it out at http://theplotline.wordpress.com/2011/11/15/a-father%e2%80%99s-reflections-by-obed%e2%80%99s-father-from-little-shepherd-by-cheryl-malandrinos/

Little Shepherd VBT 2011 - Day 10

2011-11-14T11:34:00.000-08:00

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!

Little Shepherd VBT - Day 8 Whoops!

2011-11-11T17:10:00.000-08:00

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

2011-11-11T09:15:00.000-08:00

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.

Little Shepherd VBT 2011 - Day 8

2011-11-10T09:28:00.000-08:00

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!

Link to Stories From Unknown Authors Podcast

2011-11-07T11:39:00.000-08:00

Renee and I had a great chat today on the Stories From Unknown Authors podcast. If you missed it, you can visit http://www.blogtalkradio.com/storiesfromunknownauthors/2011/11/07/interview-for-little-shepherd-by-cheryl-malandrinos and listen to it now or click on the box below.

Listen to internet radio with storiesfromunknownauthors on Blog Talk Radio

Appearing on Stories from Unknown Authors with Renee Hand on Monday, November 7th!

2011-11-06T21:25:00.000-08:00

Hope you'll join me on Monday, November 7th starting at 1 PM Eastern, at the Stories from Unknown Authors podcast with Renee Hand.

Number to call in is: (619) 566-0945

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

Little Shepherd VBT 2011 - Day 4

2011-11-04T13:39:00.000-07:00

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.

Little Shepherd VBT 2011 - Day 2

2011-11-03T06:48:00.000-07:00

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."

Stop by http://thislittlebookofmine.wordpress.com/2011/11/03/pump-up-your-books-little-shepherd-virtual-book-tour/ to read her entire review.

Little Shepherd can be purchased at the following:

Amazon

Barnes and Noble

Guardian Angel Publishing

Indiebound.org

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

A Book and A Chat Podcast Postponed

2011-11-02T07:50:00.000-07:00

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

Little Shepherd VBT 2011 Starts Today

2011-11-01T06:22:00.000-07:00

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

Little Shepherd 2011 VBT

2011-10-31T09:05:00.000-07:00

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 1^st

Book reviewed at So Many Books..So Little Time

Wednesday, November 2^nd

Book reviewed at Splashes of Joy

Thursday, November 3^rd

Podcast interview at A Book and A Chat 6:30 PM Eastern (Lack of electricity may cause rescheduling)

Friday, November 4^th

Book reviewed and giveaway at Day By Day in Our World

Monday, November 7^th

Podcast interview at Stories from Unknown Authors 1:00 PM Eastern

Tuesday, November 8^th

Book reviewed at Unionvale Homeschool

Wednesday, November 9^th

Book reviewed at One Day at a Time

Thursday, November 10^th

Interviewed at 4 the Love of Books

Friday, November 11^th

Guest blogging at Nancy Stewart Books Blog

Monday, November 14^th

Book spotlighted at The Plot

Tuesday, November 15^th

Guest blogging at The Plot

Wednesday, November 16^th

Guest blogging at Let’s Talk Virtual Book Tours

Thursday, November 17^th

Book reviewed at Shaky Mommy

Friday, November 18^th

Guest blogging at InkyBlots

Interviewed at Examiner

Monday, November 21^st

Guest blogging at J Q Rose

Tuesday, November 22^nd

Blogging at Little Shepherd

Wednesday, November 23^rd

Book reviewed at Coffee and a Keyboard

December dates coming soon!

Internet Book Fair Blogfest - Little Shepherd

2011-10-25T05:55:00.000-07:00

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:

Amazon

Barnes and Noble

Guardian Angel Publishing

Indiebound.org

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. Leslie	2.	Le Vanity Victorienne
3.	www.lachesispublishing.com	4.	Dianne Hartsock
5.	Susan Kaye Quinn	6.	Kai Strand (The Weaver)
7.	Kate Avery Ellison	8.	Nancy Stewart Books Blog
9.	AdoraPet Children's Books to Nourish a Happy Mind	10.	William & Pamela Deen
11.	My Sister Is My Best Friend	12.	REMEMBERING NINE ELEVEN
13.	MARIE AND THE SEA TURTLE	14.	Nancy Lynn Jarvis
15.	Donna J. Shepherd	16.	1 Zany Zoo
17.	Shelley Buck Author SIte	18.	http://tinyurl.com/5rby7oc
19.	fiddleeebod	20.	Urban Mythos
21.	The Underwear Dare	22.	Ashfall
23.	A Day in Doha	24.	The Golden Pathway
25.	CLOCKWISE by Elle Strauss	26.	Jessica Bell @ The Alliterative Allomorph
27.	Signs of Trouble	28.	The Doll by J.C. Martin
29.	J.L. Campbell @ The Character Depot	30.	Once Upon a December Nightmare by Cherie Reich
31.	Nicole Zoltack	32.	Lyon's Legacy by Sandra Ulbrich Almazan
33.	The Night Watchman Express by Alison DeLuca	34.	THE LEGEND OF VICTOR STANDISH
35.	Indies are GO!	36.	The Legacy of Kilkenny
37.	Silent No More	38.	Angela Fristoe @ Turning the Pages
39.	The Once and Future Wizard by Tom Averna	40.	200 SHORTS
41.	Screwing Up Time by C.M. Keller	42.	Connection of the Minds
43.	Double the Trouble	44.	A Second Chance
45.	Ghost Dog of Roanoke Island by C.K. Volnek	46.	Stranger on the Shore
47.	May I Have this Dance	48.	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 London	52.	Hog Wild by Christine London
53.	Sunshine Boulevard	54.	The Turn of the Karmic Wheel, Monica Brinkman
55.	Spirit Stealer	56.	Guinevere: On the Eve of Legend
57.	Under the Hat	58.	Screwing Up Time by C.M. Keller (blog)
59.	The Chronicles of Caleath	60.	Larion Wills/Larriane Wills
61.	Nathan's Angel by Melissa Bradley	62.	Culloden Spirit by Anita Davison
63.	Trencarrow Secret by Anita Davison	64.	Killer Valentine Ball Chris Verstraete
65.	Stephen Tremp Breakthrough Blogs	66.	The Powers by S. Durham
67.	Madeline Sharples @Choices	68.	Hostage Heart by Chelle Cordero
69.	Rachel's Children: Surviving the Second World War	70.	Hostage Heart by Chelle Cordero
71.	Hyphema by Chelle Cordero	72.	Impeccable
73.	45 Minutes by Kristen Young	74.	Final Sin by Chelle Cordero
75.	To Be Continued by Charmaine Gordon	76.	Now What? by Charmaine Gordon
77.	One Pelican at a Time	78.	http://goo.gl/EWgYg
79.	Love's Long Shadow	80.	Patricia Lynne's Journey Through the Pages
81.	Anne Gallagher - Regency Romance Writer	82.	"I Believe"
83.	Johanna Garth, urban fantasy, Losing Beauty	84.	OnWords Blog
85.	Getaway by DD Symms	86.	Jennifer M. Hartsock

Internet Book Fair Blogfest Coming October 25th!

2011-10-13T07:10:00.000-07:00

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:

I hope you'll consider visiting them too!

Please Like My Facebook Fan Page

2011-10-06T21:18:00.000-07:00

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!

Why I Love My Library!

2011-09-28T12:21:00.000-07:00

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!

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

2011-08-21T19:04:00.000-07:00

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)

Guest Blogging Today at Cafe of Dreams

2011-08-15T20:50:00.000-07:00

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

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

2011-08-04T12:36:00.001-07:00

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

Little Shepherd Giveaway Winners!

2011-07-30T13:07:00.000-07:00

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.

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

2011-07-28T10:56:00.000-07:00

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

Interviewed at Through His Eyes on Saturday, July 23rd

2011-07-22T16:39:00.000-07:00

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

Little Shepherd VBT 2011 Coming in November and December!

2011-07-16T10:01:00.000-07:00

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!

Amazon

Barnes and Noble

Guardian Angel Publishing

Indiebound.org

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

Christmas in July at Putting Words Down on Paper!

2011-06-30T20:10:00.000-07:00

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

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

2011-06-28T13:07:00.000-07:00

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.

New Look for My Website!

2011-06-14T20:46:00.000-07:00

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

Guest Blogging at The Professional Writer's Connection

2011-05-25T06:24:00.000-07:00

A while back I started a new blog, The Professional Writer's Connection, to work alongside a FREE writer's forum I created with the same name. This month's special feature has been on first book stories. Authors across a variety of genres have shared the stories of their first books. It's been a fun month.

I decided to share the story of Little Shepherd today. You can find it at http://profwritersconnect.blogspot.com/2011/05/first-book-stories-little-shepherd-by.html

Interviewed at It Only Takes a Mustard Seed to Make a Dream Grow

2011-05-17T10:16:00.000-07:00

Stop on over at Joanne Troppello's blog, It Only Takes a Mustard Seed to Make a Dream Grow, and read our interview about Little Shepherd and my writing. I would love to hear from you.

You can find the interview at http://joannetroppello.weebly.com/1/post/2011/05/interview-with-author-cheryl-malandrinos.html

Little Shepherd is available at:

Amazon

Barnes and Noble

Guardian Angel Publishing

Indiebound.org

You can also email me at cg20pm00(at)gmail(dot)com if you would like an autographed copy of the book. The cost of an autographed copy would be $10, plus a flat $3 shipping and handling fee for anywhere in the United States. Additional shipping charges would apply outside of the United States.

Walking on a Rainbow – a Children’s Fiction Picture Book Workshop

2011-05-16T20:21:00.000-07:00

Have you ever dreamed of becoming a children’s picture book author? Perhaps you have lots of ideas sure to delight young readers, yet aren’t quite sure how to get started? Or maybe you’ve already tried your hand at it, but don’t feel confident enough to submit yet? If you’ve answered ‘Yes’ to these questions, then this is the workshop for you!

During this intense 2-week crash course, you’ll have the chance to write the complete first draft of a fiction picture book manuscript under 700 words. Why under 700 words? Because you want your story to be as marketable as possible, and that is the word count agents and publishers are after the most. You’ll be able to draft your story while learning the key elements that make a fiction picture book a success. Feedback will be provided by the instructor during each step of the workshop.

Topics to be covered include:

* What you need to know before you start writing
* Amateurish mistakes beginners must avoid like the plague
* How to grab the reader on the first page (setting, character and conflict)
* Point of view
* How to plot and develop an effective story arc (conflict, rising action and resolution)
* Understanding the “Rule of Three”
* How to add sensory detail
* How to develop a character arc
* How to think in pictures
* How to replace adverbs and adjectives with strong, precise verbs
* The surprising ending or twist
* Associations, clubs and newsletters beginners should know about
* Where to submit your picture book manuscript
* And much more

Note: This workshop will focus on stories written in prose, NOT in rhyme.

Requirements: Participants must either purchase or borrow from the library a copy of A Visitor for Bear, by Bonny Becker. The book will be used for the duration of the course.

This is an intense workshop. Lessons and assignments will be posted every day Monday through Friday (for a total of 10 lessons). There will be no lessons on Saturday and Sunday.

WHEN: May 30, 2011 - Jun 10, 2011

COST: $20 for Premium Members
$30 for Basic Members
Cancellation policy: Registrations are non-refundable except when the workshop is cancelled by Savvy Authors.

REGISTRATION: Click Here to Register (Members will not receive member rate unless logged in.)
INSTRUCTOR: Mayra Calvani writes fiction and nonfiction for children and adults. Her children’s picture books include Crash, The Magic Violin, Humberto, the Bookworm Hamster, Frederico, the Mouse Violinist, and The Doll Violinist. She’s had over 300 reviews, articles, stories and interviews published online and in print. She’s represented by Mansion Street Literary Management. Visit her website at www.mayrassecretbookcase.com.

PROMO DAY - Saturday, May 14th!

2011-05-13T18:19:00.001-07:00

THE PROMOTIONAL EVENT FOR THE WRITING INDUSTRY IS BACK!

PROMO DAY makes its return in 2011 and promises to be the best yet. Mark your calendars for Saturday 14th May 2011!

An all day, online, international event for people in the writing industry packed full of tips and advice along with a variety of opportunities for writers, publishers, editors etc to promote their work and services. Readers are also welcome to drop in and get to know the authors better in the forums, view the video trailers or read the sample chapters onsite.

Founder and Organiser of the event, Jo Linsdell, had this to say "PROMO DAY came about because I was looking for opportunities to promote my books using the internet at little or no cost. After attending the Muse Online Writers Conference back in 2006, I searched the internet for similar events aimed at what to do after you’ve written the book and found none. I decided to fill the void and so PROMO DAY was born. PROMO DAY is a great opportunity to network with other members of the industry, take part in online workshops and promote and best of all it’s FREE”.

The forums feature added last year will become even more interesting during this year's event with all day workshops and pitch sessions with publishers. There will also be special sections for Companies offering services (virtual assistants, website designers, illustrators, ghost writers etc…) let attendees know more about what they offer as well as plenty of opportunities to network and promote.
Visit the website http://www.jolinsdell.com/promoday for more details of how you can be involved.

ALL DAY PRESENTER WORKSHOPS

Joyce Anthony - Blogging

Sandy Lender - 365 days of non-stop marketing

Jo Linsdell - Twitter

Joyce Lavene - Writing series

TIMED PRESENTER WORKSHOPS

LIVE Workshops will take place in the chatroom on site between 15:00 and 21:00 (Central European Time).

15:00 TBC - TBC

16:00 Sandy Lender - There's Nothing Virtual About the Work in an Online Book Tour

17:00 Suzanne Lieurance - Show Me the Money: How to Make a Comfortable Living as a Children’s Writer

18:00 Robin Richmond - Selling through Independent Bookshops

19:00 TBC - TBC

20:00 Tannia Ortiz-Lopes - Writing Book Reviews: Lessons Learned

BE PART OF THE ACTION, BE PART OF PROMO DAY!

Children's Book Week: May 2nd - 8th!

2011-04-30T19:20:00.000-07:00

“Since 1919, Children’s Book Week has been celebrated countrywide with author & illustrator appearances, parties, storytelling, and other book-related events in schools, libraries, bookstores, clubs — anywhere where kids and books connect.”

Visit the Children’s Book Week website at www.bookweekonline.com to view events taking place across the country and to learn more about this annual celebration.

How will you celebrate Children’s Book Week?

Guest Blogging at Write What Inspires You on May 2nd!

2011-04-30T19:09:00.000-07:00

In honor of Children's Book Week, I will be interviewed at Write What Inspires You, the blog of award-winning author Donna McDine. Donna’s stories and features have been published in many print and online publications and her interest in American History resulted in writing and publishing The Golden Pathway. Donna has two more books under contract with Guardian Angel Publishing, The Hockey Agony and Powder Monkey. She writes, moms and is the Publicist Intern for The National Writing for Children Center and Children’s Writers’ Coaching Club from her home in the historical hamlet Tappan, NY. McDine is a member of the Society of Children’s Book Writers & Illustrators and Musing Our Children.

I hope you'll visit me on May 2nd at http://donna-mcdine.blogspot.com/.

Why God Matters Receives Christian Small Publisher Book of the Year Award!

2011-04-28T20:55:00.000-07:00

I'm thrilled to pass along the following information that I received today from Nicole Langan, owner of Tribute Books:

ARCHBALD, PENNSYLVANIA – Tribute Books is proud to announce that our title Why God Matters: How to Recognize Him in Daily Life has received the 2011 Christian Small Publisher Book of the Year Award in the Nonfiction/Christian Living category.

All readers of Christian books and all retailers selling Christian products were invited to vote for the Book of the Year. Over 3,600 votes were received for 72 books nominated by 48 publishers. The Christian Small Publisher Book of the Year Award honors books produced by small publishers for outstanding contribution to Christian life.

Readers and retailers were invited to vote for one book in each category online at http://www.christianbookaward.com/. The award is offered in eight categories: Fiction, Biography, Christian Living, Relationships/Family, Bible Study/Theology, Children's Book (4-8 years), Children's Book (8-12 years), and Young Adult (12+ years). The winners of this award are determined solely by Christian retailers and readers' votes.

This is the fourth year the Christian Small Publisher Book of the Year Award has been presented. This year the award has a new website at http://www.christianbookaward.com/.

About Christian Small Publishers Association:

The Christian Small Publisher Book of the Year Award is sponsored by Christian Small Publishers Association (CSPA). CSPA was established to represent and promote small publishers in the Christian marketplace. CSPA is a supplier member of CBA. Christian Small Publishers Association can be found online at http://www.christianpublishers.net/.

About Why God Matters:

Many times one sees Roman Catholicism explained using either closely reasoned theology or an appeal to ancient writers of the Church. While both are legitimate approaches, the average reader looking to explore the faith is often left cold. In their collaboration, Why God Matters, Deacon Steven Lumbert and his daughter, Karina Lumbert Fabian, delineate the Catholic Faith as experienced by a pair of average, everyday people like the great majority who make up the 24 percent of Americans who share this religion.

In the stories of this pair, one see both ways people come to Catholicism, by birth (“cradle Catholics”) and by conversion. Their descriptions of their separate paths thankfully lack the religiosity of the all too common "and then a miracle takes place" school of religious experience. Rather than blasts of light, fiery swords, spiritual fistfights, and angelic choirs, theirs is the long religious slog of the everyday. The effort that one must put out each day in the long trek to Heaven.

What is Catholicism really like? One would be hard-put to find a better verbal painting of the faith so many call their own.

Visit the book’s web site at: http://www.whygodmatters.com/.

$15.95, hardcover

$2.99-$4.99 eBook

ISBN: 9780982256534

5.5" x 8.5"
114 pp

2010

About Karina Lumbert Fabian

Karina Lumbert Fabian was born into the Catholic faith, but truly grew to love it as an adult. As a busy mother of four, she finds some of her strongest encounters with God's love happen in the ordinary events of the day-to-day. Karina started her writing career with diocesan newspapers but has settled into writing fun-filled fantasy and science fiction that nonetheless incorporates the principles of faith-filled living. Visit Karina’s web site at http://www.fabianspace.com/.

About Deacon Steven Lumbert

Deacon Steven Lumbert officially converted to Catholicism in 1988, but had been a "practicing" Catholic long before that. He met his lovely and loving wife, Socorro, while serving in Roosevelt Roads Naval Base in Puerto Rico, in 1966. They raised their daughters, Karina and Regina, in the faith. Steve spent 30 years as a Colorado State Trooper, but retired when God called him to the diaconate. Currently, he serves the Diocese of Pueblo as the Associate Director of Deacon Formation.

Published by Tribute Books: http://www.tribute-books.com/. Please contact Tribute Books for author interviews, review copies, book artwork and any other requests at info@tribute-books.com.

To order 10 or more copies at a 40% discount, contact Tribute Books at info@tribute-books.com or phone (570) 876-2416.

We congratulate the authors and Tribute Books for winning this award. To read my review of the book, please visit http://thebookconnectionccm.blogspot.com/2010/06/why-god-matters-by-karina-lumbert.html

Book Review: Why Do We Celebrate Easter? by Mark Sutherland

2011-04-18T21:18:00.000-07:00

Looking for a way to explain Easter to your child? Then consider picking up a copy of Why Do We Celebrate Easter? by Mark Sutherland.

In this beautifully illustrated story, children learn that God had planned Easter a long, long time ago--even before the world was created. The book swiftly moves along from creation and the Fall of Man, to the birth of Jesus, His ministry, the Last Supper, Jesus' death and his glorious Resurrection.

Sutherland did an excellent job of providing young readers with a book that explains the Easter story in greater depth than many books do. While it is a large picture book (30 PDF pages/28 printed pages) the explanations provided by the author will be helpful in assisting readers to grasp the full message.

The book opens by asking the reader, "Do you ever wonder what Easter is all about?" Immediately the author works to engage the reader. This is a nice style, and one I think young readers will enjoy.

Julie Hammond's artwork is lovely. The soft, warm colors keep with the peaceful tone of the book.

My only slight criticism is that I felt the book would end on a more powerful note without the last page. The second to the last page talks about how we become Jesus' friends by believing He is God and that He died and rose again as payment for our sins. The final page acts like a summary of the entire book, and ends with the words, "And that's why we celebrate Easter." I truly felt that last page deflated the strong words of the page before it.

That aside, Why Do We Celebrate Easter? by Mark Sutherland is a great way to share the Easter story with the child in your life.

Paperback: 28 pages

Publisher: Dunrobin Publishing (January 21, 2011)

Language: English

ISBN-10: 0983236305

ISBN-13: 978-0983236306

SRP: $9.99

Book Review: One Little Blueberry by Tammi Salzano

2011-04-15T07:10:00.000-07:00

Who knew one little blueberry could cause so much trouble? When one little blueberry falls to the ground, all the hungry insects are eager to have it for themselves. Who will end up with this tasty treat?

Counting has never been so much fun as with One Little Blueberry by Tammi Salzano. Coupled with the charming artwork of Kat Whelan, this hardcover with spot laminated cardstock pages, will be a popular read in your house. I found the spot lamination to be quite an intriguing feature, as the glossy spots immediately capture the reader's eye.

I truly loved this story. It takes a great deal of imagination to create a simple book that teaches counting, but Salzano makes it seem easy. Whelan's bright and colorful illustrations in some ways matched the simplicity of the text: the angular lines of the ants' faces, the insects' dot eyes, the wispy lines of the antenna. Yet, there is so much going on in these zany pictures of insects chasing after the coveted blueberry, that you're captivated by them as much as you are by the story.

This might just be my favorite book of the spring season!

Reading level: Ages 4-8

Hardcover: 24 pages

Publisher: Tiger Tales (March 1, 2011)

Language: English

ISBN-10: 1589258592

ISBN-13: 978-1589258594

SRP: $12.95

Book Review: Roly-Poly Egg by Kali Stileman

2011-04-15T06:45:00.000-07:00

What would spring time be without a new life story? In this charming book by Kali Stileman, Splotch the bird lives high up in a tree. One day she lays a very spotty egg that is perfect in every way. Splotch jumps with excitement, which shakes the branch and sends the egg rolling down onto a variety of animals. Readers follow the dotted line to see where the egg will land next.

Filled with Stileman's vibrant illustrations, Roly-Poly Egg is a delightful story. As a true mother, Splotch knows her spotty egg is perfect in every way. A giraffe, two zebras, a crocodile, an elephant, and some monkeys get a chance to see the roly-poly egg, while readers follow the dotted line marking the egg's journey.

A fun book to read or read aloud, the last page includes a flap that readers can lift for a colorful surprise. Geared toward kids ages 3 to 7 (4 - 8 on Amazon), Roly-Poly Egg will enchant your youngster. I can see this book being read many times over. And at a suggested retail price of only $12.95, it's a great value.

This book would make a great addition to your child's Easter basket.

Reading level: Ages 4-8

Hardcover: 32 pages

Publisher: Tiger Tales (March 1, 2011)

Language: English

ISBN-10: 1589258525

ISBN-13: 978-1589258525

SRP: $12.95

Book Review: One Rainy Day by Tammi Salzano

2011-04-15T05:30:00.000-07:00

When it's time to learn colors, there's nothing cuter than this great new release from tiger tales. One Rainy Day finds Duck happy for a springtime shower. A journey outside shows Duck discovering a green frog, blue puddles, and more.

Ever since I picked up my first tiger tales book, I've been in love with this publisher. Like all the titles I've read from tiger tales, One Rainy Day blends a great story with wonderful illustrations to come up with a winner. This is a simple story to relay simple concepts, but with the stunning artwork of Hannah Wood, Duck's rainy day jaunt comes alive.

I'm going to pass this book along to my nephew. He'll be needing it before too long. This board book is geared toward kids ages 2 to 5. It's sturdy and will hold up to many readings.

Come enjoy a colorful spring time story in One Rainy Day by Tammi Salzano!

Reading level: Baby-Preschool

Board book: 24 pages

Publisher: Tiger Tales; Brdbk edition (March 1, 2011)

Language: English

ISBN-10: 1589258606

ISBN-13: 978-1589258600

SRP: $8.95

Little Shepherd Featured Today at Educationtipster

2011-04-14T19:48:00.000-07:00

My fellow Guardian Angel Kathy Stemke is participating in the April 2011 A to Z Blogging Challenge, just like I am at Books, Products and More! For the letter "L" she is featuring Little Shepherd and the wonderful rhyming book, Lightning Strikes, by Kevin McNamme. Coincidentally, Eugene Ruble illustrated both books.

I hope you'll visit Kathy's Educationtipster blog at http://educationtipster.blogspot.com/2011/04/l-is-for-little-shepherd-and-lightning.html and leave a comment.

Little Shepherd is available at:

Amazon

Barnes and Noble

Guardian Angel Publishing
Indiebound.org

Can Picture Books be Used to Introduce Young Readers to Sensitive Topics?

2011-04-08T13:51:00.000-07:00

That's the topic that Amy M. O'Quinn discusses today at The National Writing Center for Children blog. She happens to mention as a good example, Donna McDine's The Golden Pathway.

O'Quinn makes a good argument that picture books can be an "excellent resource to introduce and discuss such topics as the death of a family member or pet, sickness, family problems, handicaps and disabilities, different kinds of abuse, peer pressure, self-esteem, etc."

You can read the full article at http://writingforchildrencenter.com/2011/04/08/using-picture-books-to-introduce-sensitive-topics-to-children/

Books & Such Literary Agency Launches Library Insider!

2011-03-29T13:05:00.000-07:00

As an author, it's important for me to reach every potential reader I can. One area I didn't know how to approach was libraries. I can't say I've always had pleasant experiences when visiting local libraries. Most have been great, but there is that occasional moment when you wonder why some people are working with the public. It's those times that have made me hesitant to approach libraries about carrying my book.

I subscribe to a great blog, which is run by Books & Such Literary Agency. They launched this exciting new product today that I signed up for. It's called Library Insider. I'm not going to give you all the details, as I feel their website at http://libraryinsider.com/ will explain it much better and more accurately than I can, but why I decided to subscribe is because I felt my fears of dealing with libraries were leading me to miss out on a great opportunity for Little Shepherd.

As they explained today at their blog, there are two parts to Library Insider:

"1) Library Locator, which enables you to connect with 2,500 acquisitions librarians in public libraries and library systems around the country;

2) Behind the Stacks, which is individual training offered by librarian and library market expert Judy Gann."

I subscribed to the former. What this did was provide me with a database of contact information for the states I selected. I chose my home state and one other I felt would be a good fit for the book. I've already downloaded the information into an Excel spreadsheet, which will allow me to make quick work of mailings.

I'm excited about Library Insider and I wanted to share it with you so that you can decide if you're interested. Books & Such doesn't know I am talking about it at my blog. I hope you'll check out their website and let me know what you think.

Spring Titles for Your Young Reader

2011-03-18T13:29:00.000-07:00

Here are a few books I've had the chance to review at my kid's book blog that will make excellent Easter reading.

Stubby’s Destiny is an inspirational story about a defeated donkey, Stubby, who feels he was born wrong. He was just about to give up when divine destiny tapped him on the shoulder. He was chosen to carry the King of Kings upon his back. Stubby’s Destiny will bring hope to hurting children who feel their situation is hopeless.

This book is great to read this time of year because it tells the story of how a donkey who feels he will never amount to anything ends up carrying Jesus into Jerusalem on his back, where palms are laid on the ground as they pass by.

You can read my full review at The Children's and Teens' Book Connection.

Purchase Stubby's Destiny by Dixie Phillips at the Guardian Angel Publishing website.

This is a heartwarming adventure of two cherubs, Kennedy and Tristan. They help children understand what the angels might have felt when Jesus came to Earth and was crucified.

This book covers a lot of ground. It starts with the cherubs being upset that Emmaunuel is leaving them. They hear about His baptism and soon turn sad over news of His death. Luckily their sorrow only lasts three days, as Emmanuel's Resurrection means all the people can live in Heaven one day.

You can read my full review here.

Purchase Angel Eyes by Dixie Phillips at the Guardian Angel Publishing website.

Jordan's Guest is the latest book in Davy Liu's Invisible Tails series. The author tells the story of Jesus’ return to Jerusalem and his arrest and crucifixion from the perspective of the animals living in the stable.

I've read all the books in this series, and I highly recommend them. You can read my review of Jordan's Guest at my kid's book blog.

Purchase Jordan's Guest from Amazon.com.

Here are a few books I found online that I thought looked cute. I haven't read them:

The importance of both family and sharing are emphasized in this board book with simple descriptions about Easter celebrations. Sparkling glitter and velvety flocking highlight Tomie dePaola’s bright illustrations, while his easy-to-follow text explains the special traditions associated with the holiday.

Features of Every Day of Lent and Easter:
48-page booklet packed with colorful illustrations
Games, puzzles, mazes, and activities
Explanation of themes and traditions of the season
Lenten calendar
Helps children focus on the meaning of Lent and Easter in their lives
For children in grades 1, 2, & 3

This book retells the events of Palm Sunday through Easter day (Matthew 21:1-28:10; Mark 11:1-16-8; Luke 19:29-24:12; John 12:12-20:10). The Arch(R) Book series tells popular Bible stories through fun-to-read rhymes and bright illustrations. This well-loved series captures the attention of children, telling scripturally sound stories that are enjoyable and easy to remember. This product is part of the Accelerated Reader(TM) program and carries a point value of .5.

These and more spring titles are available at Amazon.com!

Guest Blogging at Cynthia's Attic

2011-03-09T17:31:00.000-08:00

My friend, Mary Cunningham, author of the Cynthia's Attic series invited me to be a guest blogger this week. You can find my post on inspiration from others at http://cynthiasattic.blogspot.com/2011/03/inspiration-from-others-cheryl-c.html

Have you picked up a copy of Little Shepherd yet? If you have, I would love to hear your thoughts on it. My email address is cg20pm00(at)gmail(dot)com.

If you don't have a copy yet, you can purchase Little Shepherd from:

Amazon

Barnes and Noble

Guardian Angel Publishing
Indiebound.org

Judging Your Virtual Book Tour's Success

2011-03-04T19:26:00.000-08:00

As a virtual book tour coordinator, I often hear from clients or potential clients, "How can I judge my virtual book tour's success?"

One might say, "If I don't sell books, then my VBT was a waste of money." While one of the goals of a VBT is to increase sales, there's a lot more to consider than that.

I wrote an article in October 2010 titled, "Why Virtual Book Tours Work." I discussed the impact my virtual book tour, which was about 4 weeks in when I penned the article, had on my search engine rankings. As I mentioned in that article, a successful VBT will increase your online exposure.

Now, keep in mind that my second VBT ended on January 26, 2011. Yet, when I type "Little Shepherd" into Google, the first result is my book at Amazon.

I also had two results further down on Page 1 and two results on Page 2.

When I type "Little Shepherd" into Bing, the other search engine I use regularly, the 6th result is the book's Amazon page, and there are 2 other results further down the page. The second page also comes up with 1 hit. We directed buyers to Amazon for sales, which sure made a difference. My book hit the Amazon bestsellers list in its category 7 times between September and December 2010. Most of that time, I was on a virtual book tour.

When I type "Cheryl Malandrinos" into Google, the 4th and 6th results are from my VBT and there are 5 hits on the second page.

In Bing, the last 6 results on Page 1 are from my tours and 6 more results appear on Page 2.

If I type "Little Shepherd by Cheryl Malandrinos" into Google or Bing most of the results are also from my VBTs.

All these results will help me reach potential readers, and I have my VBTs to thank for it.

While I had several contacts prior to coordinating my own VBT, I've meet several new bloggers as a result of touring with my book. Some have become hosts of Pump Up Your Book because they toured my book first, and others now follow my blogs and I follow theirs.

Networking is an important aspect of a VBT that can't be ignored. The more people you know online, the more people you have the potential to reach online. When your next book comes out, you'll also be able to get in touch with these bloggers again, and maybe get some help promoting that book.

Another way to judge the success of your VBT is whether you come away with a few review blurbs that can be used on your website or added to promotional materials. If you can say, "yes", then you had a good tour.

Virtual book tours, just like any promotional tool, can't guarantee sales. They provide the exposure, the networking, and reviews that you need to get your name and the title of your book noticed.

What I Learned about Virtual Book Tours from My Own VBTs

2011-03-04T16:40:00.000-08:00

This post is long overdue. I've been wanting to sit down and share my thoughts on virtual book tours (VBTs) after I went on mine to promote Little Shepherd. The first tour with Pump Up Your Book! ran from October 1, 2010 through December 17, 2010. There were some days off, but pretty much for those two and a half months I was appearing somewhere online. My second VBT with World of Ink ran through the month of January.

I handled both tours pretty much the same: I announced my tours and posted the schedules before they started; once they started I blogged here each day, or when I missed a day, I doubled up so that readers could find my tour stops; I used Facebook, Twitter, and several other social networks to promote my tour stops; I visited each blog and left comments; and I held giveaways.

Yes, it was a tremendous amount of work, but one thing you'll learn about me if you hang around long enough is that I never go half way, it's all or nothing. I guess that's a good thing, because the book hit the Amazon bestsellers list in its category (Large Print Children's Books) 7 times between September and December 2010. I doubt my first VBT would have been so effective without me blogging and using social media during that time.

I don't want this blog post to become a novel, so here are a few things I learned from my first VBT:

No Matter How Prepared You Are Something Could Go Wrong

This is something I know from coordinating tours for others, but for those with less experience, I can tell you that it's rare a VBT runs perfectly smooth. Someone doesn't receive their review copy, a blog experiences technological issues, a family emergency arises and a post doesn't appear on time; these are all things you can't control. It's not the end of the world. Occasionally you get a blogger who asks for a review copy and then disappears off the face of the planet, never to respond to any of your follow up emails. Even when that happens now, my blood pressure only rises a few points.

Working in the online world is fun because it allows you to reach more readers than you ever could with an in-store event. It's also frustrating because you have so little control over what ultimately happens. Just know going in that there will be a few hiccups along they way.

A Less Than Positive Review Isn't Worth Losing Sleep Over

I've had to say this to clients once or twice in my time, but it's a bit different when it's your book. I feel blessed that the majority of reviewers loved Little Shepherd and only had wonderful things to say. I still remember, however, the few bits of criticism the book received. At first, I felt defensive, but then I realized that a few less than positive reviews aren't that big of a deal. Reading is subjective. I've read books that I thought were less than great, but discovered many 5- and 4-star reviews on Amazon for them. The reverse also holds true.

As long as the reviewer was professional in his/her criticism say, "Thanks for the review," and move on. Personal attacks on the blogger aren't going to change his/her opinion, and make it sound like you can't handle criticism.

Remember, anything you post online is visible to tons of people. Make sure what you say is the impression you want to give them.

Comments Don't Buy Books, Readers Do

This was very hard for me to cope with during my VBT because I was running what I thought were some fabulous giveaways. I've told clients not to count on a ton of comments while they were on tour. My own blogging experience has shown that you can have hundreds of visitors a week and only a handful of comments. Why I expected it to be different for me, I can't explain. I knew, however, that I had spent over $150 to put together two wonderful Christmas themed gift baskets, plus I gave away a few copies of Little Shepherd. All readers had to do was a leave a comment with their email address so I could contact them if they won Gift Basket #1. For Gift Basket #2, they had to email or fax me a copy of their proof of purchase for Little Shepherd.

Despite my promoting each blog stop, Pump Up Your Book! promoting each blog stop, and both of us using social media to draw attention to these blog stops, some blogs had few comments. While I didn't think the giveaways required a lot of effort, I believe a few things stood in the way of the success of this part of my VBT:

1) Perhaps readers thought I was creating a contact database using their email addresses. I wrote a blog post stating that wasn't why I needed them, but people act contrary to their words all the time.
2) My tour ran for two and a half months. Maybe running two large giveaways and selecting winners at the end of the tour had a negative impact on participation. Perhaps I would have been better off having 5 or 6 smaller giveaways, and selecting winners throughout the tour.
3) In a society where identity theft is a real scare, perhaps people weren't too crazy about providing copies of their receipts; even though full credit card numbers are no longer printed on them.

Tracking Your Amazon Stats Can Be Addicting

Before my own book came out, I didn't get why many authors were so into their stats on Amazon. Yes, you want your book to sell, but what was the big deal if your book dropped in the rankings?

I began tracking my rankings on September 1st. Creating a spreadsheet, I checked my stats once a day and logged them in. I was okay when it was in the hundreds of thousands, but as soon as my book crossed the million mark, my heart sank. In case you didn't know it, Amazon rankings are like golf scores--the lower the better.

By this time, I was pretty much convinced that I never should have published a book and that no matter what I did the book wasn't going to sell. What business did I have in writing a book anyway?

On September 21st, Little Shepherd hit the Amazon bestsellers list in its category for the first time. Away went all the doubts, I suddenly knew I was born to write, and there was nothing stopping me now.

What can I say? I'm fickle.

It took about a month for the book to appear as a bestseller again. Every day I would check my stats, hoping and praying that they would go down, not up. For months I rode this roller coaster of emotions. I didn't stop tracking my stats until January 14, 2011. By that time I had accepted my seasonal title wasn't going to sell much more until we got closer to Christmas again. I knew that going in, and I don't believe any VBT could change that. The book is for sale at a local church bookstore, so some local sales might be what will carry me through until this fall.

I've already made some decisions about what I'll do differently when I tour again in the fall. First off, I'll only tour in November and December. Granted, since I am coordinating my own tour I don't have to pay for it, but they are still time consuming to put together.

Second, I won't run huge giveaways. I'll run a few smaller ones. Third, despite the fact that I sent out over 30 books to reviewers, only 12 reviews made it onto Amazon. I might run a significant giveaway to encourage bloggers to post reviews there.

Lastly, I'm only going to track my stats three times during the tour: the day before my tour starts, at the mid-way point, and within a week after the tour's end. I need to focus some time on writing my next book, not be so tied up with Amazon rankings.

I hope you found this information helpful. Feel free to share your thoughts about your own VBT or ask questions about them. I'll answer whatever I can.

New Manuscript off to a Publisher

2011-02-20T01:22:00.000-08:00

My latest manuscript, A Christmas Kindness, is off to the publisher who expressed interest in it when I pitched the idea during the 2010 Muse Online Writers Conference. Now starts the waiting, one of the frustrating sides of publishing.

I would appreciate your prayers on this submission.

Children's Authors and Illustrators Week

2011-02-01T13:30:00.000-08:00

Children's Authors and Illustrators Week is celebrated the first week of February. "During this week, members of the Children's Authors Network visit schools, libraries, and children's shelters all over the country."

For more information, please visit:

Children's Authors Network! (CAN!)
23291 Mobile St.
West Hills, CA 90307

Phone: (818) 615-0857

E-mail: caiw@childrensauthorsnetwork.com
Web: http://www.childrensauthorsnetwork.com/

Little Shepherd World of Ink VBT - Day 17

2011-01-26T06:27:00.000-08:00

Well, it's the end of the VBT trail for me--at least for now. The LITTLE SHEPHERD WORLD OF INK VIRTUAL BOOK TOUR ends today with this lovely review from Health, Beauty, Children & Family.

Here's a blurb from the review:

"The simpleness and innocence displayed is appealing for children as well as magical. I would recommend this book anytime of the year even though Christmas would be ideal."
You can read the full review at http://www.healthbeautychildrenandfamily.com/2011/01/little-shepherd-boy.html

I hope you have enjoyed following me along the virtual book tour trail. I'll still be guest blogging from time to time--my first post-VBT stop will be at Turning the Clock Back on February 3rd.

In the meantime, I will use this blog to promote other Christian and Christmas children's books, talk about other events I have planned that tie into my book, and share any other book news or topics that might be of interest to my readers.

You can purchase a copy of Little Shepherd from:

Amazon

Barnes and Noble

Guardian Angel Publishing
Indiebound.org

If you didn't catch my article on how you and your family can celebrate Christmas all year round, you can find it at http://littleshepherdchildrensbook.blogspot.com/2011/01/celebrating-christmas-all-year-round.html

Thanks so much for your support. I feel truly blessed.

Little Shepherd World of Ink Virtual Book Tour - Day 16

2011-01-24T17:44:00.000-08:00

Nicole over at Bless Their Hearts Mom posted a lovely review of Little Shepherd today. Here's a part of that review:

"I think this will be a great book to start off the holiday season with this year. It will definitely be on my list to buy for my daughter's preschool and all the friends and cousins for Christmas, not to mention for our own Sunday school class!"

Read the full review at http://blesstheirheartsmom.blogspot.com/2011/01/book-review-little-shepherd-boy-by.html.

Thanks for your support!

World of Ink Virtual Book Tour - Day 15

2011-01-21T06:12:00.000-08:00

Susanne from Putting Words Down on Paper put together a nice spotlight that mentions her review of Little Shepherd and our earlier interview. You can find it at http://susannedrazic.blogspot.com/2011/01/author-spotlight-cheryl-malandrinos.html

World of Ink Virtual Book Tour - Day 14

2011-01-19T08:53:00.000-08:00

Today the LITTLE SHEPHERD WORLD OF INK VIRTUAL BOOK TOUR makes a stop at Home School Book Review. You'll find a lovely review from Wayne if you stop by at http://homeschoolblogger.com/homeschoolbookreview/786139/

Thanks for your support!

Celebrating Christmas All Year Round

2011-01-18T08:00:00.000-08:00

Isn't it amazing how much time we take to prepare for Christmas, all to have it over within a few measley hours? It's easy to forgot all that we've concentrated on during the season of Advent once the decorations are all safely hidden under the cellar stairs.

But it doesn't need to be that way. Who says we need to put a cap on the joy and peace of the season as soon as we tuck the stockings away?

Be Thankful

Why is it so easy to concentrate on the obstacles in our way, but not feel blessed with the many things we have? I know I sure struggle with it. Complaining comes easier than saying, "Thank you, Lord, for all You've given me."

Wake up each morning and think of one thing you are thankful for. Take a moment to say, "Thank you, Lord, for ____________________."

This will start your day off right and help you focus on the positives.

Be Joyful

Have the grumble bunnies moved into your heart and set up house? It seems they sure have around here. There's so much to do and only so much time to do it. The kids need my attention, I need to promote my book, the house is a mess, and so on and so forth. Just thinking of it all makes me tired.

Not only that, it's contagious. My hubby is grumbling about working too much. The kids are grumbling over having to run errands with me. Where does it end?

It ends with you! The awesome thing about God is that He can help us to change. This past Sunday, I committed to making a change in our house. It's not easy to convince the grumble bunnies it's time to pack their bags, but daily prayer will definitely make it easier. Every morning, whether it be while serving breakfast or washing my hair, I take a moment to ask God to help bring about change in me. My girls are with me more than they are with their father. If I create a joyful environment, the kids will be happier. When my husband comes home from work and sees his happy family, he'll be happier too.

Be at Peace

The Christmas season often seems less than peaceful. But considering that Jesus is the Prince of Peace, we strive to find those moments of peaceful reflection during Advent to contemplate His birth and the ultimate sacrifice Jesus made for us. Then once Christmas is over, it's back to the hustle and bustle of our lives, worrying over ever little thing, despite knowing what we learned in Matthew 6:26-34):

"Look at the birds of the air, for they neither sow nor reap nor gather into barns; yet your heavenly Father feeds them. Are you not of more value than they? Which of you by worrying can add one cubit to his stature?

“So why do you worry about clothing? Consider the lilies of the field, how they grow: they neither toil nor spin; and yet I say to you that even Solomon in all his glory was not arrayed like one of these. Now if God so clothes the grass of the field, which today is, and tomorrow is thrown into the oven, will He not much more clothe you, O you of little faith?

“Therefore do not worry, saying, ‘What shall we eat?’ or ‘What shall we drink?’ or ‘What shall we wear?’ For after all these things the Gentiles seek. For your heavenly Father knows that you need all these things. But seek first the kingdom of God and His righteousness, and all these things shall be added to you. Therefore do not worry about tomorrow, for tomorrow will worry about its own things. Sufficient for the day is its own trouble." (NKJV)

For a control freak like me who feels she must have a plan of action for every movement, these verses are very tough. I am the one Jesus is speaking of when He says, "O you of little faith." This year, I am more determined than ever to step out in faith and bring my worries and cares to God and leave them with Him to handle.

Be Thoughtful

Did you ever notice as you walk around during the Christmas season that people are usually more pleasant? More people hold the door for you. Someone will pick up an item that you dropped. Smiles seem to come easier during the month of December.

Striving to capture that feeling and use it all year long will not only impact others around you, it will make you feel better too.

Be Generous

God has given us talents that He wishes us to use for His glory. Don't be afraid to share them with others. Volunteer your time and talents when you can. Even my daughters at the ages of 9 and 7 spend many hours each year volunteering at church or in our community. Even one hour a month can make a huge difference.

This year I am challenging myself and you to hold onto the spirit of Christmas every day. We can do it together with God's help. Won't you join me in helping to change the world...one day at a time!

World of Ink Virtual Book Tour - Days 12 and 13

2011-01-18T07:55:00.000-08:00

So much snow and having the kids home more days than they are in school has put me a bit behind. The LITTLE SHEPHERD WORLD OF INK VIRTUAL BOOK TOUR continues this week with stops at two blogs.

On Monday I visited The Maggie Project, which offered a lovely review of Little Shepherd. You can read that review at http://themaggieproject.blogspot.com/2011/01/review-of-little-shepherd.html

Today, I am the featured guest at the Stories for Children Magazine website. You'll find our interview at http://storiesforchildrenmagazine.org/CherylMalandrinos.aspx

I hope you're enjoying learning more about me and my work. I am always eager to hear from my readers so feel free to leave comments at my blog stops or here on the Little Shepherd Blog.

Thanks for your support!

World of Ink Virtual Book Tour - Day 11

2011-01-14T06:42:00.000-08:00

I end the week at a wonderful blog run by Terri Forehand. Writing and other ways into the heart of the matter...for kids had some lovely things to say about me and Little Shepherd. I'm still blushing.

I hope you'll stop by at http://terri-forehand.blogspot.com/2011/01/read-paragraph-from-cheryl-malandrinos.html and check out the review. I would also appreciate you becoming a follower of my blog hosts.

Thanks. See you on the 17th when I'll be back on the tour trail.

World of Ink Virtual Book Tour - Day 10

2011-01-13T08:09:00.000-08:00

Is it possible I have been on tour for ten days? It sure doesn't feel like it.

You can find me at VBT Writers on the Move where I am talking about the importance of editing. I hope you'll stop by at http://vbt-writersonthemove.blogspot.com/2011/01/editingit-makes-all-difference.html and say hi.

Thanks for your support!

World of Ink Virtual Book Tour - Day 9

2011-01-12T10:42:00.000-08:00

The LITTLE SHEPHERD WORLD OF INK VIRTUAL BOOK TOUR continues today with this interview at Roth's Inspiring Books & Products for Kids. I hope you'll stop by and leave a comment at http://rothsinspiringbooksandproducts.wordpress.com/2011/01/12/meet-author-cheryl-malindrinos/

World of Ink Tour - Day 8

2011-01-11T10:04:00.000-08:00

Well, today is definitely a great day. Little Shepherd received two amazing reviews.

I started out the morning at One Zillion Books, where Jason and his kids gave the book a double thumbs up and a 9 out of 10 ranking. You can read this review at http://www.onezillionbooks.com/2011/01/little-shepherd.html.

You have a chance to win a free copy of Little Shepherd from One Zillion Books, so make sure you fill out the entry form before January 25th.

Then I returned to the SFC Blog: Families Matter, where Irene said the book would be a, "...wonderful addition to every family's library." You can read her full review at http://familiesmatter2us.blogspot.com/2011/01/book-review-little-shepherd.html

I also happened to run into a woman at the school library where we both volunteer. She had purchased two copies of Little Shepherd right after Christmas for her children. She told me they both loved them. Then her son popped into the library to renew a book and I was introduced to him. He thought it was cool to meet the author of a book, so I had my five seconds of fame.

Thanks to everyone for their support. It is greatly appreciated.

World of Ink Blog Tour - Days 6 and 7

2011-01-10T14:47:00.000-08:00

Over the weekend I stopped off at a neat children's writers blog that I didn't even know about until my World of Ink VBT. On Sunday, I visited Utah Children's Writers. They featured my article titled, "The Two Most Powerful Words."

Want to know what those words are? Check out my post at http://utahchildrenswriters.blogspot.com/2011/01/two-most-powerful-words.html

Today there is a nice spotlight at Book Marketing: The Authors Marketing Powerhouse. You can find it at http://www.theauthorsmarketingpowerhouse.com/profiles/blogs/author-spotlightcheryl

This was a late addition, as my stop at One Zillion Books was moved out to tomorrow. This will be a review and a chance to win a free copy of Little Shepherd! My book will also be reviewed tomorrow at SFC Blog: Families Matter.

I hope you are enjoying this tour. Keep your eye out for more chances to win free books!

World of Ink Virtual Book Tour - Day 5

2011-01-07T10:14:00.000-08:00

The LITTLE SHEPHERD WORLD OF INK VIRTUAL BOOK TOUR stops today at The Writing Mama, a neat blog by children's author, VS Grenier. VS is one of my former clients and a good friend. I am thrilled to be stopping off at her blog.

I get some of my sillies out with my post titled, " The Juggler -- The World's Next Superhero!" While I'm a bit zany, we're discussing the serious topic of time management, something every writer needs to address.

I hope you'll stop by at http://thewritingmama.blogspot.com/2011/01/worlds-next-superhero.html and leave a comment or question. As you might know, I am a regular contributor for Writer2Writer in the areas of time management and organization. I've also held two workshops at writers conferences on these topics, so perhaps my ideas can be helpful to you.

Thanks for your continued support!

World of Ink Virtual Book Tour - Day 4

2011-01-06T09:05:00.000-08:00

Today the Little Shepherd World of Ink VBT is stopping off at Book Marketing Network. Today's post shares something I learned from publishing my first book--patience.

You can find the article at http://thebookmarketingnetwork.com/profiles/blogs/publishing-requires-patience.

I hope you enjoy my ramblings.

World of Ink Virtual Book Tour - Day 3

2011-01-05T06:30:00.000-08:00

The Little Shepherd World of Ink Virtual Book Tour continues today with a stop off at The Product Review Place. They did a nice spotlight on the book. You can find it at http://productreviewplace.ning.com/profiles/blog/list?user=0lnk96wyqr6ya.

I hope you'll stop by and check it out.

World of Ink Virtual Book Tour - Day 2

2011-01-04T05:49:00.000-08:00

Today's stop on my World of Ink Virtual Book Tour takes place at the SFC Blog: Families Matter. I visited this blog during my first virtual book tour. It's great to be back. There is so much wonderful information on this site for writers, educators, and parents.

You can find my interview at http://familiesmatter2us.blogspot.com/2011/01/interview-with-childrens-author-c.html

Some of the blogs will be hosting giveaways during this tour, so be sure to check the stops, leave comments, and increase your chances of winning.

You can order a copy of Little Shepherd at:

Amazon

Barnes and Noble

Guardian Angel Publishing
Indiebound.org

You can also email me at cg20pm00(at)gmail(dot)com if you would like an autographed copy of the book. The cost of an authographed copy would be $10, plus a flat $3 shipping and handling fee for anywhere in the United States. Additional shipping charges would apply outside of the United States.

Cheryl Malandrions Guest on RRRadio-RFK: Stories for Children –January 3rd

2011-01-03T05:55:00.000-08:00

Stories for Children Publishing, LLC

Website: http://storiesforchildrenpublishing.com/

M E D I A R E L E A S E
CONTACT: VS Grenier
Owner & Founder, Stories for Children Publishing, LLC
Email: VSGrenier@storiesforchildrenpublishing.com
Phone: 435-625-1743

For Immediate Release

Cheryl Malandrions Guest on RRRadio-RFK: Stories for Children –January 3rd

Come listen to Blog Talk Radio’s Robin Falls Kids Show: Stories for Children! The hosts (VS Grenier, D.M. Cunningham and Tiffany Strelitz Haber) will chat with author Cheryl Malandrions about her book “Little Shepherd.” They’ll also discuss writing, the publishing industry, and Cheryl’s experiences with virtual tours.

Cheryl Malandrions will also be sharing writing tips and trials and tribulations of the writer’s life.

The show will be live, January 3, 2011 at 1pm EST (12pm Central, 11am MST, and 10am PST). You can tune in at the RRRadio’s site at http://www.blogtalkradio.com/rrradio or you can listen/call in at (646) 595-4478. (Note: if you can’t make the show, you can listen on demand at the same link.)

In addition, Stories for Children Publishing will be touring Cheryl Malandrions’ book, “Little Shepherd” all month long. You can find her World of Ink Author/Book Tour schedule at http://storiesforchildrenpublishing.com/CherylMalandrinos.aspx. Make sure to stop by and interact with Cheryl and each host at the different stops by leaving a comment and/or question. Cheryl Malandrions will be checking in throughout the tour.

Cheryl Malandrinos is a freelance writer and editor. A regular contributor for Writer2Writer, her articles focus on increasing productivity through time management and organization. A founding member of Musing Our Children, she is also Editor in Chief of the group’s quarterly newsletter, Pages & Pens.

Cheryl is a Tour Coordinator for Pump Up Your Book, a book reviewer, and blogger. Little Shepherd is her first children’s book. She lives in Western Massachusetts with her husband and two young daughters. She also has a son who is married.

You can visit Cheryl online at http://ccmalandrinos.com/ or the Little Shepherd blog at http://littleshepherdchildrensbook.blogspot.com/.

Not only will you have the opportunity to meet Cheryl, but this will be the perfect time to meet and learn about the hosts VS Grenier, D.M. Cunningham and Tiffany Strelitz Haber, and their show on Blog Talk Radio-RFK: Stories for Children. You can learn about their exciting writing careers, along with Stories for Children Publishing and its many divisions.

To learn more about Cheryl Malandrions visit http://storiesforchildrenpublishing.com/CherylMalandrions.aspx

Learn more about Stories for Children Publishing, LLC at: http://storiesforchildrenpublishing.com/
###

Full Media Kit, Photos and more are available upon request electronically.

World of Ink Little Shepherd Virtual Book Tour Schedule for January 2011!

2010-12-29T13:09:00.000-08:00

Just in case you thought I would take too much of a vacation from promoting Little Shepherd, I am following the LITTLE SHEPHERD VIRTUAL BOOK TOUR '10 up with a new month-long virtual book tour from World of Ink.

January 2011 will be a month full of interviews, guest posts, reviews, and giveaways. Here is my current schedule:

January 3rd

RRRadio-Stories for Children with hosts: VS Grenier, D.M. Cunningham and Tiffany Strelitz Haber.

Live Radio Interview at 11am MST (10am PST, Noon Central and 1pm EST) http://www.blogtalkradio.com/rrradio/2011/01/03/rfk-stories-for-children

Call in number (646) 595-4478

January 4^th

Families Matter Blog Interview

http://familiesmatter2us.blogspot.com

January 5th

The Product Review Place – Author Spotlight

http://productreviewplace.ning.com/profiles/blog/list?user=0lnk96wyqr6ya

January 6th

Book Marketing Network – Guest Post

http://thebookmarketingnetwork.com/profiles/blog/list?user=VSGrenier&xgs=1&xg_source=msg_share_url

January 7th

The Writing Mama – Guest Post

http://thewritingmama.blogspot.com

January 9^th

Utah Children's Writer Blog – Guest Post

http://utahchildrenswriters.blogspot.com/

January 10^th

One Zillion Books – Review/Giveaway

http://www.onezillionbooks.com

January 11^th

Families Matter Blog - Book Review

http://familiesmatter2us.blogspot.com

January 12^th

Roth’s Inspiring Books & Products

http://rothsinspiringbooksandproducts.wordpress.com

January 13^th

VBT-Writers On The Move – Guest Post

http://vbt-writersonthemove.blogspot.com/

January 14^th

Writing to the Hearts of Children

http://terri-forehand.blogspot.com

January 17^th

The Maggie Project

http://www.themaggieproject.blogspot.com

January 18^th

Stories for Children Magazine FG Interview

http://storiesforchildrenmagazine.org/pastfeaturedguests.aspx

January 19^th

Home School Blogger - Book Review/Giveaway http://homeschoolblogger.com/homeschoolbookreview/

January 20^th

Putting Words Down on Paper - Review

http://susannedrazic.blogspot.com/

January 21st

Quadruple Z – Review/Giveaway

http://www.quadruplez.com

January 24^th

Bless Their Hearts Mom – Review

http://blesstheirheartsmom.blogspot.com

January 25^th

Sweeps 4 Bloggers – Review

http://sweeps4bloggers.com

January 26^th

Health, Beauty, Children and Family – Review

http://healthbeautychildrenandfamily.com

Thanks to the World of Ink group and all the bloggers who are putting together a great virtual book tour for Little Shepherd. I can't wait to get started!

Stay plugged into this blog for more virtual book tour updates. I'll be using Facebook and Twitter to help me promote these stops, so feel free to friend and follow me at:

http://www.facebook.com/#!/profile.php?id=1110037692

http://twitter.com/#!/ccmalandrinos

Little Shepherd Virtual Book Tour Giveaway Winners!

2010-12-29T11:59:00.000-08:00

This might just be the most exciting post of the entire LITTLE SHEPHERD VIRTUAL BOOK TOUR '10. These are the announcements for the winners of both giveaways I ran during my virtual book tour.

The winner of Giveaway #1 is: Cathy W!

Here is what Cathy has won:

An autographed copy of Little Shepherd
Angel figurine printed with the Serenity Prayer
A Little Shepherd sticky note pad
Little Drummer Boy 2010 Hallmark Keepsake Ornament
Gift of Peace 2003 Hallmark Keepsake Ornament

Retail value of Giveaway #1 is $65

The winner of Giveaway #2 is Pat C!

Here is what Pat has won:

A "Sparkling Angel" scented jar candle from Yankee Candle
An angel gold and silver lid topper for the candle
An angel tea light holder from Yankee Candle
A Little Shepherd sticky note pad
A Jim Shore Nativity Star hanging ornament
A Jim Shore Holy Family hanging ornament
A $25 Amazon.com gift card

Retail Value of Giveaway #2 is $97

Congratulations to our winners! They have 72 hours to respond to my email. If I haven't heard from them within that time frame, I will select new winners.

My thanks go out to everyone who supported me during my virtual book tour: family, friends, bloggers, readers, and more!

I will be going on another virtual book tour in January, so look for the details of that coming soon.

You can purchase a copy of Little Shepherd at:

Amazon

Barnes and Noble

Guardian Angel Publishing
Indiebound.org

Happy New Year everyone!

Merry Christmas!

2010-12-24T08:13:00.000-08:00

Orkut Scraps

"Behold, the virgin shall be with child, and bear a Son, and they shall call His name Immanuel," which is translated, "God with us."

--Matthew 1:23

Wishing you and your family a blessed Christmas.

Little Shepherd Returns to the Amazon Bestsellers List for the Seventh Time!

2010-12-21T10:37:00.000-08:00

I promise you won't have to hear about this again after Christmas, but I was excited to find that Little Shepherd returned to the Amazon bestsellers list in the Large Print Children's Books category. This is the seventh time since the book came out that it has appeared on the list. Right now it is ranked 26th out of 100. Not bad.

Amazon only lists one copy in stock, so pick it up while you can. The book is also available at Barnes and Noble, but according to their shipping schedule, the book won't make it in time for Christmas. :(

I still have copies I can mail out from here. Email me at cg20pm00(at)gmail(dot)com if you're interested in an autographed copy.

Thanks for all your support with my first book. It is greatly appreciated.

Little Shepherd Virtual Book Tour - Day 49

2010-12-17T09:04:00.000-08:00

Today is a busy day for me with four stops, which means four final chances for you to enter and win. Here's where you'll find me today.

I return to Putting Words Down on Paper for a 10-question interview with Susanne Drazic. You can find this post at http://susannedrazic.blogspot.com/2010/12/ten-questions-with-cheryl-c-malandrinos.html.

Next up is a great review at The Elliot Review. I wasn't able to leave a comment there earlier. Maybe it's just me. You can find this post at http://elliottreview.blogspot.com/2010/12/blog-tour-review-little-shepherd-by.html.

Then you can drop on in at Becky at Paperback Writer. She composed a wonderful review. Here's a blurb:

"This is a book that brings back the calmness of the Christmas spirit. Sometimes, in the midst of all Santa’s Ho Ho Ho’s and the kids saying “I want this and I want that” one just needs some time to reflect on what we are really celebrating; certainly not the man in the red suit, but the baby Jesus born in a stable amongst the sheep and the cows, who became the “Savior” of all mankind."

Read the full review at http://rebecca2007.wordpress.com/2010/12/17/paperback-writer-reviews-the-little-shepherd-by-author-cheryl-c-malandrinos/.

Finally, Pump Up Your Book's Dorothy Thompson delivers a great review of Little Shepherd. You can read it at http://www.pumpupyourbook.com/2010/12/16/book-review-little-shepherd-by-cheryl-malandrinos/.

In addition to all the wonderful news these blog posts share, Little Shepherd remains on the Amazon bestsellers list in the Large Print Children's Books category for the second day in a row. The book has hit this list six times since it was released. A true blessing indeed.

It's not too late to purchase a copy in time for Christmas. You can find the book at:

It's not too late to order a copy of Little Shepherd for your little one. You'll find it at:

Amazon

Barnes and Noble
Guardian Angel Publishing
Indiebound.org

You can also email me at cg20pm00(at)gmail(dot)com if you would like an autographed copy of the book. Amazon's stock is getting low, so if you're planning to order from them, do it soon.

Thanks for following along the tour trail with me these past two-and-a-half months. I hope if you purchased Little Shepherd, you will take advantage of the giveaway and email me proof of purchase by December 19th to be eligible for the giveaway.

Details on both giveaways, which run through the end of today, can be found at http://littleshepherdchildrensbook.blogspot.com/2010/09/giveaways-announced-for-little-shepherd.html

Wishing everyone a blessed Christmas and a happy, healthy, and prosperous New Year!

Short Video for Little Shepherd

2010-12-16T10:06:00.000-08:00

My friend, Jo Linsdell, created a promotional video for her books using animoto.com. I didn't find it all that easy to figure out, but my technology skills can be a bit lacking at times. I was able to add images without an issue and add a title, but I couldn't get a text box to appear later in the video or at the end. Unlike Windows Movie Maker, it doesn't seem like you can easily switch images between windows either.

You can set up a free account and create a short 30 second video. If you would like more options and longer videoes, you need to pay for them. Let me know what you think.

Create your own video slideshow at animoto.com.

Little Shepherd is Listed as an Amazon Bestseller for Sixth Time Since its Release

2010-12-16T07:03:00.000-08:00

I check my Amazon rankings every day. This is a way for me to judge how the book is selling--or not, as the case may be. I went out to Amazon today to take a look and found that Little Shepherd is listed as number 32 in the Top 100 books in the Large Print Children's Books category. This is the sixth time since the book's release that it has been listed as an Amazon bestseller. I feel truly blessed.

Thanks to everyone who has purchased a copy of Little Shepherd. I hope you remember to email me your proof of purchase by this Sunday so that you can be entered into my drawing for a Christmas gift basket retailing for $97. Full details on both giveawways can be found at http://littleshepherdchildrensbook.blogspot.com/2010/09/giveaways-announced-for-little-shepherd.html.

Amazon added a new feature to Author Central that allows authors to check Sales by Week and Sales by Geography. It's a neat feature. It also states right now that Little Shepherd is ranked as 173,860 out of over 8,000,000 books. Now, that's very cool!

Little Shepherd Virtual Book Tour - Day 48

2010-12-16T06:54:00.000-08:00

Today the LITTLE SHEPHERD VIRTUAL BOOK TOUR '10 makes a stop at Authors & Appetizers, a blog run by my good friend and social media expert, Angela Wilson. I think I was feeling a bit silly when I wrote some of these December guest posts because the title of this one is, "Help! I’m a Little French Girl Trapped in a Greek Household."

I talk a bit about growing up, my grandparents, and my children. There's also a great recipe for Kourambiethes, which is a Greek sugar cookie. You can find this post at http://authorsandappetizers.com/2010/12/help-im-little-french-girl-trapped-greek-household-by-cheryl-malandrinos/.

It's not too late to order a copy of Little Shepherd for your little one. You'll find it at:

Amazon

Barnes and Noble
Guardian Angel Publishing
Indiebound.org

You can also email me at cg20pm00(at)gmail(dot)com if you would like an autographed copy of the book.

Thanks for your support.

Little Shepherd Virtual Book Tour - Day 46

2010-12-15T06:26:00.000-08:00

Only two more days left in the LITTLE SHEPHERD VIRTUAL BOOK TOUR '10, which means you only have two more days after today to leave a comment at one of my blog stops to be entered in a drawing for your chance at that beautiful gift basket.

Today a review of Little Shepherd has been posted at Putting Words Down on Paper, a blog run by a fellow writer and friend, Susanne Drazic. Susanne is very supportive of me and my work, which always means a lot in this world. Here is a blurb from her review:

"Cheryl did a wonderful job of conveying Obed's concern about leaving the sheep unattended, the wonder and joy of the shepherds seeing the newborn baby, and then again in sharing Obed's relief when he found not a single sheep missing or hurt."

You can read the full review at http://susannedrazic.blogspot.com/2010/12/review-of-little-shepherd.html.

You can purchase Little Shepherd at:

Amazon

Barnes and Noble
Guardian Angel Publishing
Indiebound.org

You can also email me at cg20pm00(at)gmail(dot)com if you would like an autographed copy of the book.

Thanks for your support.

Little Shepherd Ranks As an Amazon Besteller in its Category Fifth Time Since its Release

2010-12-14T12:46:00.000-08:00

I was excited to check my Amazon rankings this morning and discover that Little Shepherd was once again listed as an Amazon bestseller in the Large Print Children's Books category. Sales had slacked off a bit and I was getting kind of nervous because it is a seasonal title.

A combination of my virtual book tour picking up again after a week away, a press release I submitted online, and a local news article look like they have had some effect.

Thanks to all who purchased a copy of Little Shepherd. Remember, if you email me your proof of purchase, you'll be entered to win a Christmas gift basket retailing for $97.

Details on both giveaways I am running during my virtual book tour can be found at http://littleshepherdchildrensbook.blogspot.com/2010/09/giveaways-announced-for-little-shepherd.html.

Little Shepherd Virtual Book Tour - Days 44 & 45

2010-12-14T12:06:00.000-08:00

Yes, it's getting close to Christmas, so the busy blogger has been busy doing other things. I couldn't wait, however, to come here and tell you about the great stops I've already been on this week.

I started Monday with an interview at Cafe of Dreams. April is a friend and supporter of my writing, so it's always good to find a nice spot on her terrific blog. You can find our interview at http://www.cafeofdreamsbookreviews.com/2010/12/interview-cheryl-malandrinos-author-of.html.

Then I was treated to a review at Tribute Books Reviews and Giveaways that left me momentarily speechless. Here's a tiny blurb:

"Malandrinos' touch is similar to the style of the classic Rankin/Bass animated TV specials from the 1960s and 1970s such as Rudolph the Red-Nosed Reindeer, The Little Drummer Boy and The Year Without a Santa Claus. It is in league with the timeless, quality children's entertainment that endures through generations."

You can read the full review at http://tributebooksreviews.blogspot.com/2010/12/christmas-books-giveaway-little.html.

Today I got the chance to show off my weird sense of humor with a guest post at my friend, Beverly Stowe McClure's blog. You can find, "My Story is Boring. Read about These Other Writers Instead" at http://beverlystowemcclure.blogspot.com/2010/12/visit-today-with-cheryl-malandrinos.html. Beverly also posted a lovely review. Here is a short blurb:

"Little Shepherd could be read in Sunday school classes and day care centers, and children might also enjoy acting out the story."

To have two such wonderful reviews two days in a row, is almost too much for an author to ask. I feel truly blessed.

Little Shepherd Virtual Book Tour - Final Week Schedule

2010-12-13T11:42:00.000-08:00

It's hard to believe, but the LITTLE SHEPHERD VIRTUAL BOOK TOUR '10 is in its final week. After Friday, I am going to hang up my virtual book tour hat for a tiny bit so that I can enjoy the holidays with my family.

I'll still be blogging and talking about Little Shepherd, so I hope you'll continue to check in here from time to tim. I also hope to add other things like short articles center on Christmas.

Here is where you can find me this week:

Monday, December 13
Interviewed at Café of Dreams
Book reviewed at Tribute Books Reviews & Giveaways
Tuesday, December 14
Book reviewed and guest blogging at The Story of A Writer
Wednesday, December 15
Book reviewed at J. Aday Kennedy’s Writing Playground (I don't think this will happen, but I'll let you know.)
Book reviewed at Putting Words Down on Paper
Thursday, December 16
Guest blogging at Authors & Appetizers
Friday, December 17
Interviewed at Putting Words Down on Paper
Book reviewed at The Elliott Review

Little Shepherd Virtual Book Tour - Week Nine Recap

2010-12-13T11:19:00.000-08:00

Well, last week was a strange week. Some stops were late; I missed writing one guest post, but my chum, Tracee, took care of that; and my poor friend J. Aday, whose blog I was supposed to be at on Friday was in the hospital battling pneumonia. Thankfully she is home and trying to relax.

So that you know where I was last week, here is a short recap. You can add comments at any of these tour stops up until December 17th, which is when the tour ends. Leave a comment will enter you into my drawing to win a free Christmas gift basket.

Monday, December 6
Book spotlighted at The Hot Author Report
Book reviewed at A Mom After God’s Own Heart
Tuesday, December 7
Interviewed at The Hot Author Report
Guest blogging at Blogher
Wednesday, December 8
Guest blogging at The Hot Author Report
Book reviewed at Lynn’s Corner
Thursday, December 9
Guest blogging at The Hot Author Report
Guest blogging at Lynn’s Corner
Friday, December 10
Book reviewed at 4 the Love of Books

You can purchase Little Shepherd at:

Amazon

Barnes and Noble
Guardian Angel Publishing
Indiebound.org

You can also email me at cg20pm00(at)gmail(dot)com if you would like an autographed copy of the book.

Thanks for your support.