Views, Reviews and Weird News

So what have I got to offer you in this weeks "Views, Reviews and Weird, well perhaps not so weird News?

Some fresh reviews at various blogs, a radio appearance or two and history coming back to life



VIEWS:

It was interesting to hear this week, that Amazon are charging over $2000 for a video book trailer. Just look around people there are many many many people and companies out there that will create your book video for a tenth of that. Not only that but they will "splat" (tech term lol) your video on other sites such as google, facebook and yahoo as well as Amazon for that price. Again this is just another one of the "big boys" catching unsuspecting authors and charging them up the kazoo.

I have also this week had some lovely feed back from my radio shows, with an ever increasing list of people who want to be on the shows. one thing to remember I WILL ALWAYS FIND A SPACE FOR A SHOW WITH A BLOGGER!!

So any blogger out there contact me and I'll book you either for a written blog interview of for a radio show.

REVIEWS:

It has been a great week for reviews of every kinds, these are two new ones on Amazon:

4.0 out of 5 stars Teen Memories, July 28, 2009
By Mick (Wisconsin)
Across the Pond is well written and any teenager would enjoy this book,especially the girls.

Fred comes over to America from England (across the pond) to stay with an American family. The family has a daughter, aged 14 and named "Brit" who takes a fond likeing to him. He really likes her, too. He protects her, listens to her fears and they plain like each other.

I sympathize with Fred once being a teenage boy myself as he has to 'take care of' a bully named Steve Harris. He put Brit in a horrendous spot before he got to America. Fred wants his revenge on him. If you are an adult this book will bring back a lot of memories by taking you back to your teen years.

5.0 out of 5 stars Sweet Love, July 28, 2009
By Cassie Mae (USA)
I really enjoyed this book as I like to see the differences of America through the eyes of someone from another country. Across the Pond shows the comparison of words and things with the US and England. I did not know we had so many words that were interestingly different.

Fred comes to stay with the American family who has a daughter his age. The teen romance that ensues is cute and innocent. You hope for them and anyone that tries to get in between them you disagree with.

The baseball game that Fred sees for the first time at the stadium is exciting for him as well as the American family.

This is a great read for a mother and daughter and/or female teenagers to read through the emotions these teens go through. Anyone that has been in young love will relate to this book.

NEWS:

Not weird just something I thought I'd share. A few weeks ago, the eldest man in England died and I blogged about him on my Sunday UK Blog. Remembering WWI etc.

This last Sunday the last British survivor of the World War I trenches, Harry Patch, has died at the age of 111. This just leaves one remaining soldier who fought in WWI
The sole British survivor of the war is former seaman Claude Choules, who is aged 108 and lives in Perth, Australia.

It is hard for many who know only perhaps modern war fair to understand the millions of deaths that happened over several years for a few miles forward and backwards on the trenches. The use of gas, tanks barbwire and machine guns meant the daily going "over the top" was almost suicide.

http://news.bbc.co.uk/2/hi/uk_news/8168691.stm




Author of Young Adult Romance/Fiction book
"Across the Pond"

A Laugh, a Joke and an English Accent

As I sometimes introduce my blog radio show "A Book and Chat" which by the way is becoming so popular I am now taking bookings for November. I am not really a writer, I always class myself as a Story Teller. However what I love doing is having fun, something I think we all should try and have in our lives.

So today's blog I'll give you a heads up (where did that saying come from?) about some up and coming events. Some interviews from this last week and a couple of jokes that I hope will bring a smile to your face.

THIS WEEK;

This week has been good for appearances and interviews

I was firstly one of the guests on ROBIN FALLS KIDS STORY TIME
Reading from my book and answering a couple of questions

http://www.blogtalkradio.com/RobinFalls/2009/07/22/Robin-Falls-Kids-Story-Time


I have also been appearing on several pages at Best Seller World

http://www.bestsellersworld.com/?p=732


http://www.bestsellersworld.com/?p=767

JOKES:

Just a couple of small jokes I've heard this week that i hope might bring a smale to your faces.

I was walking around a school on open day and came upon a boy sitting by himself in a classroom. I asked him why he was joining in all the fun with the rest of the school.
"I was caught stealing apples sir"
That's not fair I though missing everything just for stealing a few apples.
At that moment a teacher came past.
"Jones" he said "tell the gentleman the whole truth, it was not just apples was it?"

"No sir" the boy replied "It was Apples, Dells, Compacts and HP's"

---------------------------------------------------------------------

I was in the pub yesterday when I suddenly realized I desperately
needed to pas gas. The music was really, really loud, so I timed my
gas passing with the beat.

After a couple of songs, I started to feel better. I finished my
pint and noticed that everybody was staring at me..

Then I suddenly remembered that I was listening to my iPod.

UP AND COMING EVENTS:

http://www.blogtalkradio.com/RedRiverWritersLive - August 5th 1pm EST

THE FUNKY WRITERS SHOW - Thursday Aug. 6th at 8:30PM

http://www.blogtalkradio.com/thefunkywriter

“THE BIG E” - Mass - In the Connecticut Tent:

CAPA STAND DOING BOOK SIGNINGS

Thurs Sept 24, 1-4pm
Thurs Sept 24, 4-7pm -
Fri Sept 25, 10am-1pm,
Fri Sept 25, 1-4pm -
Fri Sept 25, 4-7pm -
Wed Sept 30, 4pm-7pm, -
Thurs Oct 1, 10am-1pm,

Barry Eva (Storyheart)
Author of "Across the Pond"

Book Site:http://across-t-pond.com
Follow my daily blog at: http://acrossthepond-storyheart.blogspot.com
Follow my Blog Talk Radio Show at :http://www.blogtalkradio.com/Across-the-Pond
Amazon Reviews: http://tinyurl.com/o7sokp

Latest Storyheart and Across the Pond News

Across the Pond is a YA, teen, romance or what ever you like to call it book for the young and young at heart.


Over the past few weeks I have been lucky enough to have interviews and reviews posted at all sorts of blogs and locations, about myself and my book "Across the Pond". Many of these I have shared with you on one blog or another. This week is no exception with several blog write-ups as well as some fresh reviews on amazon (those I'll share tomorrow).

Today though I received notification from a previous guest from my "Book and a Chat" blog radio show... Cherie Burbach. Cherie and I had a really enjoyable show.

http://www.blogtalkradio.com/Across-the-Pond/2009/04/22/A-BOOK-AND-A-CHAT-with-Cherie-Burbach-internet-dating-special

So today I received notification that Cherie had posted an interview that I had with her, nice enough. Then I went to her site Working Writers and read her introduction.

I first talked to Barry Eva a few months ago, when I was a guest on his show A Book and a Chat. He made me feel immediately comfortable and as a result, the interview was one of the most fun I’ve ever done. Barry has a natural ability to put someone at ease and talk about the things that people are really interested in.

As if that wasn’t enough, he’s also an accomplished author! His book, Across the Pond, gets rave reviews on Amazon and shows just how much Barry’s fans appreciate him.

I know you’re going to love this interview.

Talk about a build up!!!

Any way here is the link, I hope like Cherie kindly states you will "love this interview"

http://workingwritersandbloggers.com/2009/07/29/interview-barry-eva/




Author of Young Adult Romance/Fiction book
"Across the Pond"

A book and a Chat with "Pat McDermott"

On tonight's "BOOK AND A CHAT" I had a really fun and enjoyable radio program chatting to Pat McDermott author of the historical/time travel book "A Band of Roses"



A Band of Roses is an alternate history adventure set in modern day Ireland. The "what if" premise of the story supposes that Irish High King Brian Boru survived the Battle of Clontarf in 1014 A.D. and founded a dynasty that rules Ireland to this day.

Check out more about her and her book at:

http://www.patmcdermott.net


So listen and enjoy tonight's fun show at

http://www.blogtalkradio.com/Across-the-Pond

or on my blog at

http://acrossthepond-storyheart.blogspot.com

So take a small break and share this fun radio program, listen and enjoy.





Author of Young Adult Romance/Fiction book
"Across the Pond"

INTERVIEW WITH - MARIAH - "READER'S ADVENTURE BLOG"

As anybody who has read me reviews interviews or heard my comments on either my own radio program or where I have been a guest, you will know I am a great believer in what I call the "Small Blogger". These are the people who read, write and live books are "The 'Sham Wow' of Teen/YA literature", soaking up everything they can read. Today's guest is fairly new to blogging, and this interview I hope will encourage her and show others how much bloggers are appreciated by us authors.

Name, (name that you blog under) Mariah

Blog spot name, A Reader’s Adventure

Blog address:http://mariah-readingadventure.blogspot.com/

How long have you been blogging?

I have been blogging for about 2 months

What books do you read?

Mostly YA books but sometimes Middle Grade books as well

What is your favorite book and author of 2009?

So far I would say Eyes like Stars by Lisa Mantchev probably because I just read it and I loved it.

What is your favorite author/book of all time?

Beauty by Robin Mckinley

How many books do you have in your library?

About 200 (I use the library and buy the ones I really like)

How many books do you read a week?

About 7

Not counting yours, what is your favorite blog to follow?

The Story Siren http://www.thestorysiren.com

When is your favorite time/location to read?

Late at night when I should be asleep Location- in my bed

If you could be a character in any book who would that be and why?

Right now probably either Katsa from Graceling or Katniss from The Hunger Games because I really like both of those books but it would be really scary and I don’t think I would be as brave!

Have you ever thought about or actually written a book yourself?

I am attempting to write a book right now.

If you had a chance to advertise your blog in any way you could, what would you chose and why?

Having a bookstore support/advertise me because I love bookstores and what better way to connect with readers?

If you had a chance to interview any one author who would that be and why?

A really famous author like Judy Blume

If you had a chance what period of history would you live in

Probably the Elizabethan Era because I am fascinated with it even though it is not as great as it sometimes sounds what with no indoor plumbing!

What is one thing about you that readers might not know?

I am very shy and quiet in real life!

What would you like to change about you if you could?

I wish I was less introverted but it gives me more time to read!

Have you ever heard of a “Tree Kangaroo?”

Yes, and they are adorable

If people are interested in being a guest on your blog or sending a book to you and your

Through my email silverbookgirl@yahoo.com

Thank you so much for being my guest I always want to help YA bloggers, specially ones perhaps just starting out on the blogging trail.
Good luck to your future blogs as well as that book your writing.





Author of Young Adult Romance/Fiction book
"Across the Pond"

STORYHEART SUNDAY UK BLOG - TICKETY-BOO

Tickety-Boo

Yesterday I was hunting around for a copy of a song I heard a while ago thinking to replace the opening music for my “Book and a Chat” radio shows which currently is set to “Tea for Two”. The reason being, the show is aimed to be a friendly chat between two friends over a cup a tea/coffee. The guests I have had so far and the show has been running since February with over forty shows so far and a waiting list for guests going into November.

Anyway I was looking for a song called “Tickety-Boo” by one of my favorite singers Ralph McTell, who sang the song along with Billy Connolly with the launch in October 18th 1999, Tickety-Boo is tea. The sales of this tea in eighteen months after the launch, Tickety-Boo had already raised over £50,000 to help children in India, China, Romania and Tibet.



The song not only starts with a whistling kettle coming to the boil but has such wonderful lines as…


“A little cup and saucery is magic in the morning.”
And…
“Tickety-Boo, isn't that nice? The only cup of tea that makes you feel good twice. “

Needless to say I could not find my copy (old cassette) nor find a place on line to purchase or down load the music.

Today I did find the old cassette, and also why I had not played the music as the cassette due I would guess to little fingers was broken.

So while I hunt the internet for another copy I though I’d check up on the meaning of
"tickety-boo"

This is the best I have found…

There are a number of theories regarding the origin of the expression "tickety-boo" (also sometimes spelt "ticketty-boo", tiggity-boo") meaning "all in order, satisfactory, as it should be." or " Everything is going fine"."Things are proceeding smoothly or quickly".
It appeared in the early 1920s, well before World War II, and was in general use by the 1940s. It is still used in UK by people of "a certain age" and therefore has become rather old fashioned.
There is the theory that it is a relic of the British colonial presence in India and it may have originated in the British military. One of the most accepted and common theories about "tickety-boo" connects it to the Hindi expression "tikai babu" or "tickee babu" meaning "Everything's alright, sir".

So this week when people ask how you are feeling,just tell them.

“I’m tickety-boo”






Author of Young Adult Romance/Fiction book
Across the Pond
http://acrossthepond-storyheart.blogspot.com/
http://across-t-pond.com


OTHER SUNDAY UK BLOGSABOUT

THE GRAND NATIONAL
WHY UK DRIVES ON THE LEFT
MOTHERS DAY ACROSS THE POND
ABOUT THE UNION JACK
ENGLISHMANS VIEW ON BASEBALL
WHAT IS BOXING DAY
BRITISH TV TRANSPLANTS
WHO WAS SAINT GEORGE?
BOBS YOUR UNCLE
SWEET FANNY ADAMS
EUROPE'S GOT TALENT - WELL PERHAPS
GOBSMACKED, BOBBIES AND AN ARM AND A LEG
BIG BEN... OR IS IT?
THE USA NEEDS A CITIZENS CHARTER
FROM CHARIOTS TO NASCAR
WHAT IS FATHERS DAY?

A Book and a Chat with Jill Jepson

On today's "Book and a Chat" my very special guest is... "Jill Jepson."

Today on my blog radio show "A Book and a Chat" my special guest is traveler, professor, and transformational life coach, and the author of three books Jill Jepson.

Listen to the show an hear from Jill about traveling the world and finding that that writing and spirituality are closely tied, that writing is actually a form of spirituality. Her thoughts and inspirations are shared in her book. "Writing as a Sacred Path" Follow her as she explains that this wonderful book is a guide and help for writers of all kinds from poets to master writers, from those just starting out on the literary trail to help in just writing a school essay.

Join Barry (Storyheart) and Jill for thirty minutes as they discuss her life and her book.

You can listen to the show (as I am now) at

http://www.blogtalkradio.com/Across-the-Pond

or at

http://acrossthepond-storyheart.blogspot.com

"Writing as a Sacred Path" is a must read for all would be writers.


Thank you
Barry (Storyheart)




Author of Young Adult Romance/Fiction book
"Across the Pond"

Every so often there comes along a MUST SEE video... this is one of them

Like the hits when Boyle the voice first hit the scene, and a few other time people can think off, every so often there is something on youtube the sweeps the world providing enjoyment for all. This is one of those moments.

Please spare a few moments to check out this fantastic wedding.


http://www.youtube.com
/watch?v=4-94JhLEiN0

My eldest son is getting married this October, but I doubt if the wedding will be like the one in the video

Tomorrow Saturday on my BOOK AND A CHAT Show my special guest is JILL JEPSON





Author of Young Adult Romance/Fiction book
"Across the Pond"

Latest Across the Pond and Storyheart News

Across the Pond a book for the young and young at heart. YA, teen, romance what ever you like to call it.


With the book now being available in book stores I have started to receive some new reviews from the book launch, including this one which is my first at AMAZON UK.

http://www.amazon.co.uk/Across-Pond-Storyheart/dp/1436371767/ref=sr_1_1?ie=UTF8&s=books&qid=1248385667&sr=1-1

I also have been asked and produced a guest interview at another blog

http://mariah-readingadventure.blogspot.com/2009/07/here-is-interview-with-storyheart-what.html

And the third and final good news for today is that my blog has received the :Humane Award"



According to this award's description, it is to honor certain bloggers who I feel are kindhearted individuals. They regularly take part in my blog and always leave the sweetest comments. If it wasn't for them, my site would just be an ordinary blog. Their blogs are also amazing and are tastefully done on a regular basis. I thank them and look forward to our growing friendships through the blog world.





Author of Young Adult Romance/Fiction book
"Across the Pond"

Views, Reviews and Weird News

So what have I got to offer you in this weeks "Views, Reviews and Weird News?

Some fresh reviews at various blogs, a radio appearance or two and history coming back to life



VIEWS and REVIEWS:

GOODREADS ****

I do not typically read books that are geared towards younger readers or young adults, but I am very glad that I decided to try this book. It is very well written and kept me engaged to continue reading and finish it in one sitting. It is a heartwarming story of teenage life, love, and angst, as seen by characters that live in different settings. Yet, it is universal in its story, where anyone that reads it, will be able to relate to it. It did not have the quality of being a book that was "too young" for me to read and I believe it will reach readers on every level. I highly recommend this selection.

LIBRARY THING ****

I do not typically read books that are geared towards younger readers or young adults, but I am very glad that I decided to try this book. It is very well written and kept me engaged to continue reading and finish it in one sitting. It is a heartwarming story of teenage life, love, and angst, as seen by characters that live in different settings. Yet, it is universal in its story, where anyone that reads it, will be able to relate to it. It did not have the quality of being a book that was "too young" for me to read and I believe it will reach readers on every level. I highly recommend this selection.


THE KIDS BOOK CONNECTION

I enjoyed Across the Pond. A strong cast of characters, an interesting plot, some great baseball, and a deep secret all come together for an engaging and fun read.

WEIRD NEWS:

Medieval battle records go online

The detailed service records of 250,000 medieval soldiers - including archers who served with Henry V at the Battle of Agincourt - have gone online.

The database of those who fought in the Hundred Years War reveals salaries, sickness records and who was knighted.

The full profiles of soldiers from 1369 to 1453 will allow researchers to piece together details of their lives.

Thomas, Lord Despenser is the youngest soldier on the database, whose career began when he was aged just 12 in 1385.

Elsewhere, the career of Thomas Gloucestre, who fought at Agincourt, can be traced over 43 years and includes campaigns in Prussia and Jerusalem.

'Remarkable survival'

The website is the product of a research project by Professor Anne Curry of the University of Southampton and Dr Adrian Bell of the University of Reading.

Dr Bell said: "The service records survive because the English exchequer had a very modern obsession with wanting to be sure that the government's money was being spent as intended.

"Therefore we have the remarkable survival of indentures for service detailing the forces to be raised, muster rolls showing this service and naming every soldier from duke to archer."

He said accounts from captains showing how funds were spent and entries detailing when the exchequer requested the payments can be found.

The free-to-use website, funded by the Arts and Humanities Research Council, also shows which soldiers rode the furthest.




Author of Young Adult Romance/Fiction book
"Across the Pond"

A Book and a Chat with "Barbara Bonfigli"

On tonight's "BOOK AND A CHAT" I had a really fun and enjoyable radio program chatting to Barbara Bonfigli lyricist, theatrical producer and author of

"Café Tempest: Adventures on a Small Greek Island."



The book is a kind of "A Year in Provence" meets "Zorba the Greek". I invite you to my mythical island of Pharos, to laugh and dance in the hammock, not the cradle of Western civilization.

Listen to the show and imagine yourself sitting on a Greek Island sipping Barbara's own concoction "The Tempestini"

Check out more about her and her book at of course the cocktail at:

http://barbarabonfigli.com

So listen and enjoy tonight's fun show at

http://www.blogtalkradio.com/Across-the-Pond

or on my blog at

http://acrossthepond-storyheart.blogspot.com

So take a small break and share this fun radio program, listen and enjoy.





Author of Young Adult Romance/Fiction book
"Across the Pond"

Interview With - Arianna - FroggieReviews Blogspot

As anybody who has read me reviews interviews or heard my comments on either my own radio program or where I have been a guest, you will know I am a great believer in what I call the "Small Blogger". These are the people who read, write and live books are "The 'Sham Wow' of Teen/YA literature", soaking up everything they can read. Today's guest is fairly new to blogging, and this interview I hope will encourage her and show others how much bloggers are appreciated by us authors.


Todays Guest: Arianna
blog spot: FroggieReviews
blog address: FroggieReviews.blogspot.com


How long have you been blogging?

Actually this is the first Book that I blogged about! That is kind of special then

What books do you read?

I read mostly mysteries, some romance, and some young adult. I also love fantasy. And retelling of the classic fairy tales

What is your favorite book and author of 2009?

Ah tough question because 2009 isn’t over yet! But I definitely enjoyed Across the Pond and probably Ridley Pearson’s Killer Summer! I also loved Poison Study, Magic Study and Fire Study by Maria Snyder.

What is your favorite author/book of all time?

Of all time? I have to choose…there are so many. I love James Patterson, Ridley Pearson, Dave Barry, Maggie Sefton, Joanna Carl, Cleo Coyle/Alice Kimberly, Laura Childs. As I said there are too many to choose!

How many books do you have in your library?

I have no idea but I have a library in my house…maybe 1500-3000…I’m not good at estimating.

How many books do you read a week?

Somewhere between 2-4.

Not counting yours, what is your favorite blog to follow?

readergirlreviews.blogspot.com she's one of my really good friends and I’m new to this whole blogging thing!

When is your favorite time/location to read?

Favorite time is after school and on the weekends ALL the time. And Location-the couch or anywhere I can get comfortable.

If you could be a character in any book who would that be and why?

Probably Hermione from Harry Potter. I know that is cliché but, I’m a lot like her with her showing the teachers up so that’s the most obvious choice.

Have you ever thought about or actually written a book yourself?

I’m currently writing my own book and I’m going to try to be done with it by October.

If you had a chance to advertise your blog in any way you could, what would you chose and why?

Make a little flyer and ask my friend who works at a bookstore to distribute it to the customers!

If you had a chance to interview any one author who would that be and why?

Well I have already did a short review with you, and I’m doing a short one with Ridley Pearson but I’d love to interview Laura Childs because her books are set in New Orleans and ever since going there, I’ve been fascinated with the culture and the ghost stories.

If you had a chance what period of history would you live in?

The Medieval times because I just love the thought of running around in a big huge castle in Europe

What is one thing about you that readers might not know?

I love watching sports on TV.

What would you like to change about you if you could?

This probably sounds really arrogant, but I love everything about me. I’ve learned to love my imperfections


Have you ever heard of a “Tree Kangaroo?”

No! What is it?

That I can help you with.... http://www.americazoo.com/goto/index/mammals/30.htm





Arianna, thank you for being my guest, good luck with your blog and with your writing.




Author of Young Adult Romance/Fiction book
"Across the Pond"

STORYHEART"S SUNDAY UK BLOG

Oldest WWI veteran dies aged 113

Henry Allingham, the world's oldest man and one of the last surviving World War I servicemen, died at the age of 113 in England.
Though we still talk about World War I as indeed we should this now leaves just two British survivors from what is sometimes called "The Great War" not that any war is great.

Mr Allingham, the last survivor of the Battle of Jutland was very active right up to his final days. or decades, he buried his war memories, avoiding reunions and refusing to discuss the events with his family.

But, in 2005, he was persuaded to unveil an RAF memorial in France and decided it would have been disrespectful to his former comrades to refuse.

This was followed by numerous honors and accolades.

Second jogger attacked by buzzard

A buzzard has attacked another holidaymaker in Cornwall - the second such incident in a matter of days.

Eleanor Dennis, 19, was jogging near the Helford River on Saturday evening when the bird of prey attacked.

The teenager from Hertfordshire, who is on holiday with her family, was not hurt, but was badly frightened.

Last week Stuart Urquhart from Bristol needed hospital treatment after a buzzard slashed his head while he was out jogging near the Helford River.

Mr Urquhart suffered three 6cm (2in) long gashes on his scalp from the bird's talons.

Bond's Lotus bought for £105,000

James Bond's Lotus Esprit from the film For Your Eyes Only has been sold to a Middle Eastern buyer for £105,000 at an auction in Oxfordshire.

Reply to Yesterdays Blog Question

I have had several replies to yesterdays blog question about Christian Literature. To me this is the best explanation, and I totally agree with what it should now really be called.

If you want to try and apply the term Christian Literature to mainstream literature, then perhaps we need to change the term to "Christian Friendly." Meaning, Christian values are respected and sensitively dealt with - perhaps not in individual characters or the words used (blaspheming and such should be okay if the purpose is to create/motivate/ drive a character and not to just shock the reader). Christian Friendly literature would then, presumably, leave the reader with some kind of lesson or message or theme or or or... the list is quite endless... and the Christians to offend almost as endless. As you say Christian isn't an easy term to define in literature. Interesting point!

Thank you to everybody for their comments. I hope you continue to enjoy my scribblings.






Author of Young Adult Romance/Fiction book
Across the Pond
http://acrossthepond-storyheart.blogspot.com/
http://across-t-pond.com


OTHER SUNDAY UK BLOGSABOUT

THE GRAND NATIONAL
WHY UK DRIVES ON THE LEFT
MOTHERS DAY ACROSS THE POND
ABOUT THE UNION JACK
ENGLISHMANS VIEW ON BASEBALL
WHAT IS BOXING DAY
BRITISH TV TRANSPLANTS
WHO WAS SAINT GEORGE?
BOBS YOUR UNCLE
SWEET FANNY ADAMS
EUROPE'S GOT TALENT - WELL PERHAPS
GOBSMACKED, BOBBIES AND AN ARM AND A LEG
BIG BEN... OR IS IT?
THE USA NEEDS A CITIZENS CHARTER
FROM CHARIOTS TO NASCAR
WHAT IS FATHERS DAY?

Literary Saturday - what is "Christian Literature"?

Normally I blog on a Saturday about that days radio guest, however today I did not have a radio show. The reason being this morning I was a guest speaker/panelist at a Connecticut Authors and Publishers (CAPA) event.

As stated on the program...

"During the first several minutes of the program, each panelist will share a brief story of an appearance to promote their book. Following this first segment, a Question & Answer period will follow, where each panelist can attempt to provide his or her "best answer" to the questions posed by the audience, based on their experience. The venues may include libraries, bookstores, other book sale venues, television and radio."

My chat and answers went down really well with promoting as I always do the use of the internet for publicity and just getting your name out there. Of course I mentioned my favorite subject the fantastic YA Bloggers that are out there, or as I call them the "Sham Wow" of YA literature.

One question I was asked, and it has been asked before is if my book is a "Christian Book?"

What are Christian books, Christian Authors etc, what does it mean?

I mean to say.. ones mans Christianity is another mans Judaism. Words like bloody and hell are in the Bible, yet used as "Bloody Hell" which is a common saying in England, might be classed as bad langauge.

Some reviewers/readers have said great for teens teen and good "Christian Book" others have said some bad language...(not sure where unless we are talking about "bloody hell")

Basically I'm lost. I mean what about all the "begating" in the bible, and after all were not Adam and Eve were the first sex experts?

Any way I think the book might be classed as a good Christian book, but then I could have just been agreeing to sell copies and possibly be a guest speaker at an event or two.

So if anybody could explain what "Christian Literature" is, not counting the monthly news letter from your local church (at least in England), I'd be very glad.

This by the way is my church from back home in England. St Marys (East Barnet) built in 1080... yes that old, and still has many parts (walls doors, arches etc) from the original Norman building. I was christened, sang in the choir and had one wedding ceremony there.

Barry




Author of Young Adult Romance/Fiction book
"Across the Pond"

Radio Guest Show Trials

THE MANY SIDES OT BARRY EVA (STORYHEART)

Some of the issues one comes up against in doing blog radio programs happened to me yesterday. I don't normally do a show on a Thursday night, however owing to being part of a panel at a writers group meeting on Saturday I had booked an author for last night. The show as normal for my mid-week show was due to start at 6:30pm EST.
Just before 6pm I was checking my guest blog and web site to glean some useful information to use for chatting, when I noticed they had posted that the show was at 6:30 CST not EST. I contacted the agent of the author, and received confirmation that the guest now knew it was 6:30EST. This fact was confirmed by an update on the authors site.

Show time came and not sign of my guest, they had written about always being late for events, so I started the show and chatted about the guest. Five minutes went by still no sign. So as in past "no show" shows I carried on talking about various issues for the remaining thirty minutes.

I had a weird feeling that despite correcting the blog and the time, that my guest would still show up at 7:30 my time. So I opened a small 5min show and low and behold turn up they did.

Needles to say I have since received an apology for what the author sates her "blond" moment. Believe me it actually worse than that. When I cam to check out my thirty minute solo show I found that one of the kids gad used or played with my headphones and turned of the microphone, so I had thirty minutes of dead air. Which needless to say has since been deleted.

Just a little issue one sometimes has with radio shows.


Thank you
Barry (Storyheart)




Author of Young Adult Romance/Fiction book
"Across the Pond"

Views, Reviews and Weird News

So what have I got to offer you in this weeks "Views, Reviews and Weird News?

Firstly my book is now available at Book Stores!

I've received some heartwarming views and reviews from readers and have some classic weird news to share.

VIEWS:

"Across the Pond was an amazing book that I imagine all teens would want to read. I was wondering if you would consider writing a second part all about Brits journey to England. I would almost bet that if you continued on with this as a series you could have the same effect as the Sisterhood of the Traveling Pants series. Also I was wondering what your radio show is about. Thanks for letting me review your book."

"Teenagers will adore this little gem which promises to hold your attention throughout. It is light-hearted yet with undertones of passion."

REVIEWS:

I have not only reached the grand total of "NINETY" reviews at Amazon during this last week, but also have several fantastic reviews on other sites.

http://thebooktree.blogspot.com/2009/07/across-pond-by-storyheart.html

http://www.tcm-ca.com/reviews/3088.html

http://gardenofbooksa.blogspot.com/2009/07/across-pond-by-storyheart.html

http://irecommendgreatreads.blogspot.com/2009/07/across-pond.html

http://abookloversdiary.blogspot.com/2009/07/review-across-pond-by-barry-eva-aka.html


WEIRD NEWS:

This weeks we have some classic weird news

Bride's bouquet brings down plane

The traditional throwing of a bride's bouquet for luck ended in disaster at an Italian wedding when the flowers caused a plane to crash.

The bride and groom had hired a small plane to fly past and throw the bouquet to a line of women guests, Corriere della Sera reported.
However, the flowers were sucked into the plane's engine causing it to catch fire and explode.
The aircraft plunged into a hostel. One passenger on the plane was badly hurt.
But about 50 people who had been in the hostel escaped unscathed, as did the pilot.

Entangled

The incident happened at Montioni park in Suvereto, near Livorno, where the wedding reception was being held, Corriere della Sera said.
A passenger on the aircraft, named as Isidoro Pensieri, 44, had the job of throwing the bouquet as pilot Luciano Nannelli flew past.
It is believed the bunch of flowers became entangled as it was thrown, and was sucked into one of the engines.
Ms Pensieri suffered multiple fractures and a head injury. She was taken to hospital in Grosseto by helicopter and then transferred to another in Pisa, Italian media reported.

LEG CUTTING FUNERAL HOME TO CLOSE

US SMOKERS $23,148,855,308,184,500 HABIT




Author of Young Adult Romance/Fiction book
"Across the Pond"

A Book and a Chat with "Susan Chodakiewitz"

On today's "Book and a Chat" my very special guest Susan Chodakiewitz. Writer, composer and producer, Susan is the founder of Booksicals Children´s Books- Encouraging the love of reading through the arts.




Through her company Booksicals she has created the Booksicals on Stage literacy program which is currently presenting musical performances of the picture book Too Many Visitors for One Little House at schools, libraries, and special events. Too Many Visitors for One Little House is Susan´s debut book made even more interesting by some wonderful illustrations from Veronica Walsh.

Listen to 30 minutes of learning and laughter as Storyheart and Susan discuss her book, animals, having a house full of people and anything else they can think about chatting in an enjoyable recording of "A Book and a Chat"

You can visit Susan website at www.booksicals.com.


Take a small break and share this fun radio program, listen and enjoy.


You can listen to the show at.


http://www.blogtalkradio.com/Across-the-Pond

or

http://acrossthepond-storyheart.blogspot.com





Author of Young Adult Romance/Fiction book
"Across the Pond"

Interview with Jenni - falling off the shelf blogspot

As anybody who has read me reviews interviews or heard my comments on either my own radio program or where I have been a guest, you will know I am a great believer in what I call the "Small Blogger". These are the people who read, write and live books are "The 'sham wow' of Teen/YA literature".

Name: Jenni
Blogname: Falling Off The Shelf
Blog Address: http://fallingofftheshelf.blogspot.com


How long have you been blogging?

Going on 2 months now, I’m fairly new to the blogging community.

What books do you read?

I’m a huge fan of paranomal books, but I also enjoy reading young adult, romance, mystery, chick lit, and horror.

What is your favorite book and author of 2009?

Wow this is a hard one, I’ve read so many great books this year. I’d honestly have to say Moon Called by Patricia Briggs. I’m loving her Mercy Thompson Series.

What is your favorite author/book of all time?

The Notebook by Nicholas Sparks, by far, it was the first romance I ever read and I’ll never forget how it made me feel. (Plus I cried my eyes out!)

How many books do you have in your library?

Wow, uh, around 600? No, I’m not kidding either, my fiance thinks I’m crazy.

How many books do you read a week?

Well, I do work a full time job, so sometimes 1 and sometimes 3, it all depends.

Not counting yours, what is your favorite blog to follow?

I honestly don’t have a favorite, but I do frequently visit Wendy’s Minding Spot, Chick With Books, So Many Books So Little Time, and Smexy Books.

When is your favorite time/location to read?

In my room early in the morning. It’s so quiet in the house, and my fiance isn’t home to bug me. I usually will just sit and read, and before I know it I’ve read through whole books.

If you could be a character in any book who would that be and why?

I’d honestly want to be a vampire, a spunky vampire (not an evil killing machine). I love reading about vamps, and I work overnight so sometimes I feel like a vampire because of my sleep habits.

Have you ever thought about or actually written a book yourself?

I’ve thought about it, but I can never seem to get it into words. I should really try before just giving up.

If you had a chance to advertise your blog in any way you could, what would you chose and why?

Oh, I’d have one of those message planes fly around my town. Haha, only because that would be completely ridiculous, but it would probably generate a lot of new readers.

If you had a chance to interview any one author who would that be and why?

I’d have to say Jeanine Frost. She seems like a really sweet person, and I absolutely love her writing. I buy her books religiously as soon as they hit the shelves.

What is one thing about you that readers might not know?

I absolutely hate picking up a new book. I know, it sounds odd, but each book to me is like a project until I actually start reading it. Once I get into the first couple of pages, it’s no longer a project, but something I want to do and can’t help but finish.

What would you like to change about you if you could?

I would say my job, but that’s not really me, that’s something I do. I would have to say I’d change my personal appearance, nothing major, a tuck here maybe a tan, lol.

Have you ever heard of a “Tree Kangaroo?”

No I have not, sounds cute though. I love animals.

If people are interested in being a guest on your blog or sending a book to you and your blog what is the best way to contact you?

Emailing me. I check my email EVERY day, and never leave a message unanswered. I’m always looking to communicate with other bloggers, so guest posts are wonderful. As for sending me a book, I love to read all sorts of things, just send a short description of your book.


Thank you for having me here! This was the first time anyone wanted to interview ME, and it was fun.


Thank you for being my guest Jenni and sharing your blog with the readers.




Author of Young Adult Romance/Fiction book
"Across the Pond"

STORYHEART SUNDAY UK BLOG - MORE OLD ENGLISH SAYINGS

I have been asked to share some more old English Phrases and origins of them. So that will be today's blog.

GOLF

Many years ago in Scotland, a new game was invented. It was ruled “Gentlemen only… Ladies Forbidden” …and thus the word GOLF entered into the language.

SAVED BY THE BELL/DEAD RINGER

England is old and small and the local folks started running out of places to bury people. So they would dig up coffins and would take the bones to a "bone-house" and reuse the grave. When reopening these coffins, 1 out of 25 coffins were found to have scratch marks on the inside and they realized they had been burying people alive. So they would tie a string on the wrist of the corpse, lead it through the coffin and up through the ground and tie it to a bell. Someone would have to sit out in the graveyard all night (the "graveyard shift") to listen for the bell; thus, someone could be "saved by the bell" or was considered a "dead ringer."

CAT LET OUT OF THE BAG

In the Royal Navy the punishment prescribed for most serious crimes was flogging. This was administered by the Boatswain's Mate using a whip called a cat o' nine tails. The "cat" was kept in a leather or baize bag. It was considered bad news indeed when the "cat was let out of the bag. " Other sources attribute the expression to the old English market scam of selling someone a pig in a poke (bag) when the pig turned out to be a cat instead.


NO ROOM TO SWING A CAT

The entire ship's company was required to witness flogging at close hand. The crew might crowd around so that the Boatswain's Mate might not have enough room to swing his cat o' nine tails, hence "No Room to Swing a Cat"


CUT THROUGH THE RED TAPE

Solicitors kept their clients papers in a file folder tied with red ribbon to prevent the papers from falling out. Of course, when they wanted to get at the papers, they would have to cut through the red tape.

GETTING A SQUARE MEAL

Your dinner plate was a square piece of wood with a "bowl" carved out to hold your serving of the perpetual stew that was always cooking over the fire. The kettle was never actually emptied and cleaned out. New ingredients were simply added to the muck. You always took your "square" with you when you went traveling.

UPPER CRUST

Visitors to the Anne Hathaway's cottage (near Stratford upon Avon) are given this explanation while looking at the bread oven beside the fireplace in the kitchen: "The bread was put, as a raw lump of dough, straight into the bread oven. No bread tin, it just sits on the floor of the oven. The oven is heated by the fire and is very hot at the bottom. When the bed is done baking and taken out to cool, the base of the loaf is overcooked black and also dirty. The top of the loaf is done just right, and still clean. The bottom of the loaf is for the servants to eat, while the upper crust is for the master of the house.






Author of Young Adult Romance/Fiction book
Across the Pond
http://acrossthepond-storyheart.blogspot.com/
http://across-t-pond.com


OTHER SUNDAY UK BLOGSABOUT

THE GRAND NATIONAL
WHY UK DRIVES ON THE LEFT
MOTHERS DAY ACROSS THE POND
ABOUT THE UNION JACK
ENGLISHMANS VIEW ON BASEBALL
WHAT IS BOXING DAY
BRITISH TV TRANSPLANTS
WHO WAS SAINT GEORGE?
BOBS YOUR UNCLE
SWEET FANNY ADAMS
EUROPE'S GOT TALENT - WELL PERHAPS
GOBSMACKED, BOBBIES AND AN ARM AND A LEG
BIG BEN... OR IS IT?
THE USA NEEDS A CITIZENS CHARTER
FROM CHARIOTS TO NASCAR
WHAT IS FATHERS DAY?

A Book and a Chat with... ME!

THE MANY SIDES OT BARRY EVA (STORYHEART)



On today's "Book and a Chat" my very special guest is... "well ME."

Unfortunately my planned guest David Liss was not able to make today's show, so I chatted on my own for thirty minutes about books, selling, marketing, future guests, reviews, new pets and anything else I could think to chat about.

Check out today's program and see how I did.

http://www.blogtalkradio.com/Across-the-Pond

or

http://acrossthepond-storyheart.blogspot.com

After the show I was checking a few locations and found a fresh "FIVE STAR" review at Amazon.

One of those items that keeps us authors going.

5 stars The Epitome of a Sweet and Modern Teenage Relationship, July 10, 2009

Young Adult/Romance is one of my favorite genres, just because I love to fantasize and dream of something like "Across the Pond" by Storyheart. I found it hilarious within the first few pages, upon discovering the nickname "Brit," and my chest tightened when I neared the end of this book (which i won't reveal because I know that I hate spoilers... and it's not exactly unexpected, either)
This book is a short, sweet read with an almost modern-fairy tale like romance. I would be able to read it over and over again without tiring of it (i've read it twice already)and I believe that Brit and Fred (Brittany and Frederick) are a lovely couple and the epitome of teen romance.
As an American, it was entertaining when I read about Fred's troubles with the food. Who would've thought that I would laugh out loud just because of someone's British reaction to "beagles (bagels)" and blueberries?
I recommend this book to anybody who is a fan of young romance and a sweet tale.

Thank you
Barry (Storyheart)




Author of Young Adult Romance/Fiction book
"Across the Pond"

Across the Pond by Storyheart - New Reviews

Across the Pond a book for the young and young at heart. YA, teen, romance what ever you like to call it.


With the book now being available in book stores I have started to receive some new reviews from the book launch.

Here is what a couple of readers have said about the book today...

ReviewTheBook.com

Reviewed by Angela Simmon

With characters so lively you can find each one in your own hometown, Storyheart has written a tale that all teens will fall in love with. A definite homerun, with short chapters, quick-wit and believable situations that teens can relate to. With a brilliant blend of American and English this is a spot on book.

With hilarious language translation problems and a repeat performance by the garlic lady, you cannot go wrong with this book. Although it has mild language it is a perfect read for any young adult. Chocked full of teenage drama, new love, and tons of sports, this is a book for boys or girls.

TCM Reviews for Book,

Reviewed by Kate Greenwood

Storyheart’s British heritage reveals itself as he highlights the differences and similarities between life in England and the U.S. while keenly showing that teenagers are virtually the same everywhere.

It is a short story but full of fun and sure to propel your teenager into summer reading!



Author of Young Adult Romance/Fiction book
"Across the Pond"

Views, Reviews and Weird News

VIEWS:



I am now officially part of the "BIG BOYS NETWORK" that means my book is no longer classed as POD, but is now in the Ingram’s Database as being part of a "Bookstore Returnability Service"

This means that where as up to now book stores have not really stocked my book, as most will not stock POD (print on demand) as they want credits back for unsold books. They can stock the book, and you can order the book from them.

Before this takes place I am also looking to correct a few errors and get a fresh version of the book available.

REVIEWS:

Following the fresh release of Across the Pond, now that it is in Ingram's several more reviews are starting to appear, more about that next week.

Here's part of one I received today

"Across the Pond coaxed smiles from me as I read about how Fred handled the many situations he found himself in--especially his often humorous struggle with the differences in language."

WEIRD NEWS:

Bear Mugged Me For Italian Sandwich
A northwestern New Jersey man said he was mugged in his driveway by a sandwich-craving bear.

Henry Rouwendal said he was packing his car last Friday when he was hit from behind and knocked to the ground. He said the culprit was a black bear who took his Italian sandwich.

Rouwendal said he kicked the bear in the snout and throat.

He said the bruin made off with the bread, salami and other meats but left behind the lettuce, onions and tomatoes.

Vernon Township police said it's the first time a bear has attacked a person in the rural community in more than 25 years.

(So much for the $5 foot long)

The witch job that pays £50,000

A job center is advertising a "witch" vacancy with tourist site Wookey Hole, in Somerset,(England) for £50,000 a year.

http://news.bbc.co.uk/2/hi/business/8138665.stm





Author of Young Adult Romance/Fiction book
"Across the Pond"