There have been many wonderful posts this last couple of weeks by those in our writing community and I would like to share with you a very small selecton I have enjoyed.
Jennie Fitzkee shares the second part of her Teaching Lightbulb Moment and it is so inspiring to read about the teaching blocks that she created from art exhibitions to the circus..wonderful post
Traci Kenworth accompanies her blog posts with a selection of links to other posts from the writing community. Always a wonderful selection and here is just one of her pre-Christmas posts about eye lashes.
Cheryl Oreglia explores Advent and wonders how we should best use this time of year, from a spiritual perspective and as an opportunity to refine the type of person we are or choose to be.
Head over to read Cheryl’s thoughts on Advent and enjoy her take on life:What are we waiting for?
Robbie Cheadle writing on Writing to be Read with a moving tribute to author and poet Sue Vincent who sadly died in 2021. Still very much missed within the writing community.
Even if you are not taking a blogging break it is always a good idea to spend time on housekeeping your blog and archive files. As always Hugh Robertsoffers some great tips on how to do this effectively.
Staci Troilo has a wonderful virtual cookie exchange with participants from around the world sharing their Christmas Cookie recipes… you can find links to these recipes in her post.. something to save for future holidays.
Judith Barrow has a new book out in January ‘Sisters’ that I am really looking forward to reading, and in this post Judith tells the story of two sisters who both in their way became famous in the 18th and 19th century writer Ann Hattonand actress Sarah Siddon.
A small selection of posts I have enjoyed over the last week or so and I hope you will head over to enjoy in full.
Pete Springer shares the amazing Humboldt County Children’s Author Festival which he is a volunteer for. Every two years the festival brings 25 authors to give talks in the schools in the area, meet the children and share their writing. Logistically challenging but as you will see it was an incredible success again this year.
Jane Risdon joins Judith Barrow to share her memories of her childhood and her grandfather’s house of treasures…Jane comes from an army background with connections to India and Singapore and it is fascinating to learn more about the history and travels of her family.
Robbie Cheadle is not just a master baker who creates wonderul figures in fondant icing, she is also a dab hand with savoury dishes and here is her recipe for curried mince.
I do wonder how the electric car will develop, particularly with the battery technology to ensure better mileage and sustainability. John Howell shares an interesting development .A breakthrough in electric vehicle fast-charging battery design from Penn State has enabled a 10-minute charge time for a typical EV battery.
A small selection of post I have enjoyed in the last week or so and I hope you will head over to read in full and also explore the archives of these amazing bloggers.
Today the media is focused on what is wrong with the world and it is difficult to remember that there is also a great deal of beauty, usually associated with nature, who despite mankind’s best efforts continue to astonish and amaze. Here are some incredible people who share those special images with us.
Tofino Photography – Wayne Barnes – Tofino, BC, Canada
In 1913 Tofino was an established settlement for Europeans who joined the First Nations peoples looking to living in this beautiful environment. Now people from all over the world come to Tofino to live, vacation and experience the super natural world of rainforests, ocean and wildlife.
Wayne has stunning photographs of all the resident wildlife including bears, whales, eagles, sea otters, sea lions, wolves and many other local residents.
The next photographer who has travelled the world to share stunning images is Cindy Knoke, who also has an amazing setting in her own backyard to inspire and delight.
In this post an amazing flower that I have never seen before. Huge poppies that bloom in The Holler where Cindy lives in rural California…
Head over to enjoy the other images of this amazing flower: Romneya 8th May
The next post I suggest you head over to enjoy is from Robbie Cheadle, who manages to combine working full-time, being a mum, writing novels and poetry, and making the most incredible cakes, with travelling in her home of South Africa and sharing wonderful photographs with us. This photo of lion cubs are one of the images taken on a recent trip to the Ukutula Conservation Centre
Apart from images there is plenty of inspiration to be found around the writing community and Jennie Fitzkee who celebrated her birthday this week, gifts her young students the opportunity to explore the world through the love of books and reading.
Today was one of those ‘moments’ in teaching, the ones that turn something small into something big. It was a simple question, yet it opened a whole new world for children.
It happened like this…
Every day we have the ‘Question of the Day’ posted for children when they arrive in the classroom. The question is written on the easel, and there are two trays alongside- one for ‘yes’ and one for ‘no’. Children find their name on a big craft stick and place it on the ‘yes’ or the ‘no’ tray. Today’s question was, “Do dinosaurs still live?”
After snack we tally the votes. This is terrific, because children watch as we mark the tally votes- four lines and a cross line. That’s five. They’re now able to recognize five without counting the lines. That’s subitizing.
Christopher Graham, The Story Reading Ape, has purposed his blog to be the launch pad for many an author and blogger starting out and was an amazing help to me back in the early days of my blog and still is. Since we have been exploring the world in this post his latest guest photographer and author Baer Charlton is a perfect example of how travel and experiences of the world can be captured in photographs and also between the pages of a book.
Why a Writer?
The same question could apply to my being a picture framer off and on since 1966. Or driving big trucks, riding motorcycles, surfing, traveling to distant places, and even getting sprayed on top of a volcano in Rwanda by a teenage female gorilla.
When I was four, I asked my mother to teach me how to type. I had noticed that when she was setting type or printing, none of my siblings were around. I would have hours of access with no interruptions. And as we stood laboring away at the mind-numbing business of printing, we talked. And in our way, we verbally wrote stories.
And last but certainly not least… Marcia Meara offers authors several opportunities to share their work on her welcoming blog. One of these is her series Ten Things You May Not Know About Me, which I enjoyed participating in. This week author Jan Sikes took up the challenge and there are hippies and Harleys on offer.
Good Morning, Everybody. Today, I’d like you to welcome author Jan Sikes to The Write Stuff. Jan is part of the wonderful team of writers over on the Story Empire blog, and she’s going to share a very interesting #TenThings list with us today. I know you’ll enjoy learning all these goodies about her! Jan, the floor is yours!
***
Thanks for having me here today, Marcia!
Ten Things You May Not Know About Me by Jan Sikes
1. My maiden name is Smith. Growing up my sister and I were always referred to as those Smith girls. Smith is ranked as #1 when it comes to common last names.
A small selection of posts I have enjoyed over the last few days and I hope you will head over to enjoy in full..Slightly different format going forward with a twice weekly post..
The first post is from Pat Furstenbergwith a fascinating post sharing the very familiar idioms we use often, little realising their common usage across a number of languages including Afrikaans, German, Romanian and English..head over to enjoy
6 Idioms Linguistically Identical in Afrikaans, German, English and Romanian
Because idioms can be fun, here are 6 phrases linguistically identical in Afrikaans, German, English and Romanian, with a little historical background too. How else? 🙂
1. Hit the nail on the head – as old as the Bronze Age
Darlene Foster shares some wonderful photos from her recent get away to the Isle of Arran… head over to see the heather covered hillsides, standing stones and photogenic sheep…
The Incredible Isle of Arran
I finally got away for a few days! I was fortunate to visit the Isle of Arran, in Scotland. The island is a magical place with lovely beaches, manor houses, castles, old churches, standing stones, charming coffee shops, art galleries and lots of sheep. There is a story around every corner. I went to meet writer friends, do some writing and chill. I did all of that and more. I expected rain and got sunshine. Here are a few pictures to give you an idea of how wonderful Arran Island is.
Roberta Eaton Cheadle (Robbie) shares her thoughts on the dystopian novel Brave New World by Aldous Huxleyon the blog of Charles French.
Another Entry For The U. L. S., The Underground Library Society, by Roberta Eaton Cheadle: Brave New World by Aldous Huxley
Overview
A colleague of mine who is a philosopher recommended I read Brave New World, a book written in 1931 by English author Aldous Huxley.
I have read several dystopian novels including 1984 by George Orwell, Anthem by Ayn Rand, The Time Machine by H.G. Wells and Fahrenheit 451 by Ray Bradbury, but this one disturbed me the most.
In all other dystopian novels I’ve read, compliance with the despotic authoritarian regimes that demand the surrender of knowledge, creativity, and individuality are enforced by strict control over the behaviour and actions of all people and the maintenance of power through force, intimidation, and torture.
Head over to read the rest of Robbie’s thoughts on this book written 90 years ago with a disturbing vision of the future:Roberta Eaton Cheadle – Brave New World
Rebecca Budd shares a wonderful reading of a poem written by Frances Ellen Watkins
Frances Ellen Watkins Harper lived an extraordinary life during extraordinary times. Born in Baltimore in September 24, 1824 and orphaned at an early age, she was destined to become a prominent abolitionist, temperance and women’s suffrage activist. She used poetry to advocate for a compassionate society.
“Songs for the People” speaks of embracing a spirit of kindness and hope for others when we face seemingly overwhelming challenges. Her words are not spoken with sentimentality, but with power and authority that resonate in our current reality.
If you are looking for some new television series to stream or perhaps to buy older popular shows in boxed sets, Terry Tylershares some recommended viewing..including The Shield, Betrayed, Romper Stomper, No Man of God, The North Water, The Walking Dead and Stillwater.. some I have seen but others I will explore further..
Lately I’ve Been Watching….
The latest in my series of mini TV and film reviews, with trailers and ‘where to watch’. If you have trouble finding where any show/film is available in your country, this is a good site: Justwatch. Just put the name of the show into the search, and choose your country further down, from the drop-down menu. It shows where you can stream, buy or rent. Or you can put ‘where can I watch ***’ into whichever search engine you use, or go to the programme’s own site, if it has one.
If you would like to see more posts, please click here: Lately I’ve Been Watching. If you get as far as the bottom, ‘Older Posts’ will take you to more.
And last but not least… Jan Sikes shares her August reading so if you are looking for your next book to enjoy…something for everyone. Including books by Mae Clair, Jacquie Biggar, Willie Nelson, Lisa Wells, Sasha Summersand Teagan Geneviene.
A small selection of posts I have enjoyed in the last few days and I hope you will head over to enjoy in full… thanks Sally.
The first post is from Diana Wallace Peach with some of her book reviews from April.. so if you are looking for your next book…head over.
Happy May! Time for some reading!
April was a month of catch up on my to-do list, which included resuming my Jane Fonda workouts from 1985 (before some of you were born!) That means I’m not reading on the treadmill anymore, but I still made time for some great books!
April book reviews include my 4 and 5 star reads of a western romance, a military romance, an afterlife time travel fantasy, a serial fantasy, and a horror anthology.
Another book post, this time from John Howellwho introduces us to Robert Hookey and his new book.
Into The Dark by Robert Hookey #newbook
Today I am delighted to welcome Robert Hookey (known in some circles as The Hook) to Fiction Favorites. I am happy for a couple of reasons. The first is I’ve been following Robert on his blog, and he has given me many hours of enjoyment with his humor. Second, Robert has a new book, and I’m excited to have him here to talk about it.
So, with that, welcome Robert. I hope you are comfortable. I would offer you a margarita, but I know that drinking alcohol is not one of your vices. I don’t do virgin drinks very well either. How about a cup of tea, eh?
First off, thank you for making this Canadian boy feel at home with the “eh?”, John. I’m currently enjoying some milk from a bag that I‘m using to wash down my Canadian back bacon. (It’s tastier than it sounds.)
Thank you, Robert. The bacon smells delicious. Now let’s get to the first question. I know you have written another book about your life in the service industry, but I’m curious about what caused you to venture into fiction?
The final post today is from Robbie Cheadlewho is combining her usual excellent reviews with an audio version to enjoy as well.
#Bookreview #Audioreview – The Seal’s Temptation by Jacquie Biggar – The SEAL’s Temptation: Wounded Hearts- Book 7 Kindle Edition
What Amazon says
DEA Agent Maggie Holt knows about Hell…
After eighteen months undercover in a Mexican cartel, Maggie is broken. The kickass agent she once was, is gone, leaving her riddled with guilt and nightmares. Forced to take paid leave, Maggie accepts the offer of a vacation on the ranch of the man who’d rescued her from an almost certain death.
Frank Stein knows the signs of PTSD, he’d suffered the symptoms himself as Chief Petty Officer of SEAL Team Five. Honorably retired from duty, Frank has found peace at the family ranch and hopes it will do the same for Magdalena. Ever since he’d first met her when she was interrogating his buddy, Jared, Frank has been fascinated by the raven-haired beauty and wants the chance to see where their relationship could go.
As we contemplate the leftovers from Christmas Dinner… some blog posts in the last few days that reflect the wonderful spirit that keeps us all going through the tough times…
Ani and Sue Vincent have been share a wonderful Advent party all through December and on Christmas Eve we were treated to a poem and a miracle that made one little black dog very happy.
Ani’s Advent 2020! When Magic Happens
Dear Santa, remember that ball that I’ve had? For several years now…it was getting quite bad… And all that was left was some chewed rubber stuff, A vague hint of curve and some once-yellow fluff… * I’ve taken good care to be so gentle with it Not tugged it or torn, so the ball would forgive it, But age takes its toll and there’s naught that can stop it Especially when I must ‘fetch it’ and ‘drop it’.
And on the subject of creativity, prolific author and master baker Robbie Cheadle has been working on a fabulous project… I don’t know where she finds the time…
Gingerbread and chocolate Christmas diorama
I have finally reached the end of my gingerbread and chocolate Christmas diorama creation. My, what a job its been, but so much fun too. This is the final display!
On Christmas Eve Miriam Hurdle shared the background to one of our most popular Carols..Silent Night.
Silent Night – The Composition, The Story of WWI, and The Choir
The Silent Night Chapel is located in Oberndorf dei Salzburg, Austria, where the song was first performed
“Silent Night” (German: Stille Nacht, heilige Nacht) is a popular Christmas Carol. The lyrics were written by Joseph Mohr in Salzburg, Austria. The melody was composed by Franz Xaver Gruber, schoolmaster and organist in the nearby village of Arnsdorf.
Before Christmas Eve, Mohr brought the words to Gruber and asked him to compose a melody and guitar accompaniment. The first performance of the carol was on December 24, 1818, in the Christmas Eve mass.
Over the years, because the original manuscript had been lost, Mohr’s name was forgotten and although Gruber was known to be the composer, many people assumed the melody was composed by a famous composer, and it was variously attributed to Haydn, Mozart, or Beethoven. However, a manuscript was discovered in 1995 in Mohr’s handwriting and dated by researchers as c. 1820. It states that Mohr wrote the words in 1816 when he was assigned to a pilgrim church in Mariapfarr, Austria, and shows that the music was composed by Gruber in 1818. This is the earliest manuscript that exists and the only one in Mohr’s handwriting. (Source)
And to end today something spicy especially for those of you with snow on the ground and in need of warming up … courtesy of Dorothy of The New Vintage Kitchenwhere you will find a fabulous range of recipes..
Snow Day Ginger Spice Cookies
The good news is that we’ll certainly have a white Christmas. The bad news is I can’t find my patio…
They don’t look like much, but this is our family’s favorite cookie. They are humble in appearance, will never be placed in the top of the fancy cookie box, but they are also memorable with their intense flavor, crisp outside and chewy interior.
We were hoping for a white Christmas, and that will be the case this year with cold weather predicted through the holiday and almost three feet of delicious new snow on the ground.
Welcome to the Smorgasbord Christmas Party, with the focus on the fur members of the family who also love this time of year, over this weekend and next I will be sharing the photographs of some much loved pets, and of course a little promo for their human companions.
I have prepared some treats that hopefully my guests both two-legged and four-legged will enjoy.. Joiningyesterday’s guestsare some delightful felines and canines and their humans.
My first guest today is Robbie Cheadle who has invited along her cat Push-Push.. who may not be as big a fan of Robbie’s baking we we all are.
I thought Push-Push might like to help me with my giant gingerbread project this year. I offered her a piece of the cut off gingerbread [I always back first and then cut out, so the shapes don’t lose their form during the cooking process]. Sadly, gingerbread did not seem to appeal to her, so she isn’t offering to be my helper. I have the feeling she’ll be a lot keener on helping to carve the turkey on the big day.
A selection of books by Robbie and Michael Cheadle and as Roberta Eaton Cheadle.
About Robbie Cheadle
Robbie, short for Roberta, is an author with five published children’s picture books in the Sir Chocolate books series for children aged 2 to 9 years old (co-authored with her son, Michael Cheadle), one published middle grade book in the Silly Willy series and one published preteen/young adult fictionalised biography about her mother’s life as a young girl growing up in an English town in Suffolk during World War II called While the Bombs Fell (co-authored with her mother, Elsie Hancy Eaton). All of Robbie’s children’s book are written under Robbie Cheadle and are published by TSL Publications.
Robbie has recently branched into adult horror and supernatural writing and, in order to clearly differential her children’s books from her adult writing, these will be published under Roberta Eaton Cheadle. Robbie has two short stories in the horror/supernatural genre included in Dark Visions, a collection of 34 short stories by 27 different authors and edited by award winning author, Dan Alatorre. These short stories are published under Robbie Cheadle.
Something now for cat owners who wish to protect their Christmas tree this year.. thanks toCole and Marmalade
My next guest needs no introduction.. it is The Small Black Dog herself… Aniauthor of numerous popular books. Today she has brought along her human, Sue Vincentas Ani has been banned from driving! A story for another time.
Ani is currently hosting a massive all star Advent Party over on her blog and you will find some wonderful guests and their humansAdvent 2020 – Who Wants to Come and Play
A small selection of books by Sue Vincent and Ani
Sue Vincent is a Yorkshire born writer, esoteric teacher and Director of The Silent Eye. She has been immersed in the Mysteries all her life. Sue maintains a popular blog and is co-author of The Mystical Hexagram with Dr G.M.Vasey. Sue lives in Buckinghamshire, having been stranded there some years ago due to an accident with a blindfold, a pin and a map. She has a lasting love-affair with the landscape of Albion, the hidden country of the heart. She is currently owned by a small dog who also writes at S.C. Vincent
I know that Ani is partial to cheese so better get in there and help yourself before she sniffs it out.
My next guest is Aurora Jean Alexander whose beautiful black cat Tjara is extremely festive..and
This a picture that I took a few years back when I took my new addition to the cat-herd to my mother’s house first time. My Mom had a mini-Christmas tree on her table and Tjara, of course, was fascinated by the ‘shiny balls’ and was sitting next to the tree for a moment, just long enough for me to take the picture.
Books by A.J. Alexander
I’m a fantasy author working on a paranormal romance series. The first book of ‘The Council Of Twelve’ series, ‘Soul Taker’ was published December 15, 2018.
I have written short stories and poetry in the past. Some of my poems can be read on my blog ‘Writer’s Treasure Chest.
My rare free time I’m spending in extreme reading, excessive pool swimming and playing monster-monopoly. My strongest support system are my sister, most of my family, my friends and my three cats.
More shenanigans from Cole and Marmalade as they get ready for Christmas courtesy of their long suffering human Cole and Marmalade
And now Ann Chiappettajoins us with her wonderful fur family Bailey and May
Yellow lab Bailey and shepherd mix May (and me behind them). Bailey is the dog on the cover of my memoir, Follow Your Dog, 7 years old bred and trained by Guiding Eyes for the Blind in NY. May was adopted last June from our local Humane Society and just turned 2. They are best friends and love to play tug and mouth wars.
Books by Ann Chiappetta
About Ann Chiappetta
Ann is an artist and often refers to her love of words as a natural compensation after losing her vision in 1993. Once a designer of acrylic displays and furniture, Ann trained her creative senses to flow over from the visual to the literary arts. Years later, she has become a poet and author, honing her talent in various mediums, including web content for nonprofits, regular bylines for online literary publications, poetry, anthologies and guest editing in online literary journals, just to name a few projects of which she
has contributed.
Ann possesses a master of science in Marriage and family therapy from Iona College and an undergraduate degree from the College of New Rochelle, both located in Westchester County, New York. She is currently employed as a readjustment and trauma counselor for combat veterans and their families. A guide dog handler and advocate, Ann volunteers her time representing people with visual impairments and guide dog users on various National, State and local boards of directors. A consultant and guest presenter, Ann visits schools promoting awareness and equality for people with disabilities. She is the 2015 recipient of the WDOM Spirit of Independence award.
And last but certainly not least.. D.G.Kaye who so badly wanted to join the party she went out and borrowed a cat, not just any cat but Tequila Cat!
Are we surprised!! We know how much she loves her Margaritas.. as I do. Debby brought me a gift which I am off install immediately so we can all enjoy a cocktail.. Sorry four-legged guests this is just for us hoomans.
Debby Gies is a Canadian nonfiction/memoir author who writes under the pen name of D.G. Kaye. She was born, raised, and resides in Toronto, Canada. Kaye writes about her life experiences, matters of the heart and women’s issues.
D.G. writes to inspire others. Her writing encompasses stories taken from events she encountered in her own life, and she shares the lessons taken from them. Her sunny outlook on life developed from learning to overcome challenges in her life, and finding the upside from those situations, while practicing gratitude for all the positives.
When Kaye isn’t writing intimate memoirs, she brings her natural sense of humor into her other works. She loves to laugh and self- medicate with a daily dose of humor.
I love to tell stories that have lessons in them, and hope to empower others by sharing my own experiences. I write raw and honest about my own experiences, hoping through my writing, that others can relate and find that there is always a choice to move from a negative space, and look for the positive.
Thank you for joining us today. Have a wonderful Christmas and I shall be around from time to time with the odd post or two over the holidays if you are around.. stay safe.
Welcome to the second Smorgasbord Blog Magazine Easter Parade this weekend with music, guests and some Easter food…If you missed yesterday’s post here is the link: Easter Parade 11th April
This is also an opportunity for you to introduce yourself in the comment section along with your blog URL and one for Amazon for your books. I hope you will enjoy the next couple of days and for a brief moment it lightens the separation we are all experiencing from our normal lives, away from family and friends.
The theme for the parade is ‘Flashback’ and my guests have all sent in a photograph from the 1960s through to the 1980s, along with a music request. There will be singing along and dancing, and I hope you will join in.
Please help yourself to coffee and macaroons…
My first guest is non-fiction author and regular contributor to the blog, D.G. Kaye.. Debby Gieswho has informed and entertained with her Travel Column and now is guiding us through the complexities of Relationships.
Debby is sharing a photograph before becoming the vibrant redhead that we know and love today.. .she clearly rocked being blonde too…
About D.G. Kaye
Debby Gies is a Canadian nonfiction/memoir author who writes under the pen name of D.G. Kaye. She was born, raised, and resides in Toronto, Canada. Kaye writes about her life experiences, matters of the heart and women’s issues.
D.G. writes to inspire others. Her writing encompasses stories taken from events she encountered in her own life, and she shares the lessons taken from them. Her sunny outlook on life developed from learning to overcome challenges in her life, and finding the upside from those situations, while practicing gratitude for all the positives.
When Kaye isn’t writing intimate memoirs, she brings her natural sense of humor into her other works. She loves to laugh and self- medicate with a daily dose of humor.
I love to tell stories that have lessons in them, and hope to empower others by sharing my own experiences. I write raw and honest about my own experiences, hoping through my writing, that others can relate and find that there is always a choice to move from a negative space, and look for the positive.
Quotes: “Live Laugh Love . . . And Don’t Forget to Breathe!”
“For every kindness, there should be kindness in return. Wouldn’t that just make the world right?”
When I’m not writing, I’m reading or quite possibly looking after some mundane thing in life. It’s also possible I may be on a secret getaway trip, as that is my passion—traveling.
Debby’s music choice from the 1960s through to the 1980s is Holiday by Madonna.
The next guest this morning is author and poet Robbie Cheadle who writes children’s books with her son Michael and also writes as Robert Eaton Cheadle.
Robbie shares a wonderful photograph taken with her sister when she was 20 years old and her sister 16. She certainly has changed very little..
About Robbie Cheadle
Robbie, short for Roberta, is an author with five published children’s picture books in the Sir Chocolate books series for children aged 2 to 9 years old (co-authored with her son, Michael Cheadle), one published middle grade book in the Silly Willy series and one published preteen/young adult fictionalised biography about her mother’s life as a young girl growing up in an English town in Suffolk during World War II called While the Bombs Fell (co-authored with her mother, Elsie Hancy Eaton). All of Robbie’s children’s book are written under Robbie Cheadle and are published by TSL Publications. Robbie has recently branched into adult horror and supernatural writing and, in order to clearly differential her children’s books from her adult writing, these will be published under Roberta Eaton Cheadle. Robbie has two short stories in the horror/supernatural genre included in Dark Visions, a collection of 34 short stories by 27 different authors and edited by award winning author, Dan Alatorre. These short stories are published under Robbie Cheadle.
I have been drawn to the horror and supernatural genres of books all my life. At the age of ten years old I embarked on reading Stephen King’s books including The Shining and Salem’s Lot. These books scared me so much I had to put them aside by 6P.M. in the evening in order to get a good night’s sleep but they also fascinated me. I subsequently worked my way through all of Stephen King’s earlier books as well as those of Dean R. Koontz.
I have read a large number of classics, in particular, I enjoy Chaucer’s Canterbury Tales, Charles Dickens and the works of the Bronte sisters.
I am hugely interested in the history of the United Kingdom as well as the mythology and tales of the paranormal that are abundant on this intriguing European island.
Robbie has selected An Angel by the Kelly Family from the 1980s as her music today.
Time for a sandwich….
Now time for thriller writer John Howellto unveil his photograph and I think you will agree it is fabulous.
About John Howell.
John began his writing as a full-time occupation after an extensive business career. His specialty is thriller fiction novels, but John also writes poetry and short stories. His first book, My GRL, introduces the exciting adventures of the book’s central character, John J. Cannon. The second Cannon novel, His Revenge, continues the tension. The final book in the trilogy, Our Justice, launched in September 2016 concludes the thriller series. John’s fourth book Circumstances of Childhood, launched in October of 2017 tells a different thriller story of riches to rags, football, Wall Street, brotherly love, redemption, and inspiration with a touch of paranormal to keep you riveted. The fifth book is a collaboration with the award-winning author, Gwen Plano titled The Contract. Heavenly bodies become concerned about the stability of the Earth and send two of their own to risk eternal salvation in order to save the planet. The Contract achieved number one status in its genre. All books are available on Amazon in paperback and Kindle editions.
John lives in Lakeway, Texas with his wife and their spoiled rescue pets.
And John’s music choice is “Only the Lonely” by Roy Orbison. It was a hit in 1960 and the version he has selected is from Roy Orbison’s Black and White Night special seen originally in October 23, 1989
The next guest is poet Miriam Hurdle who shares a wonderful photograph from the late 1970s, singing at a Christmas party.
About Miriam Hurdle
Miriam Hurdle is a multi-genre writer. She writes poetry, flash fiction, and short stories. Her poems are included in Letters to Gaia, Whispers and Echoes Issue 2, Whispers and Echoes Issue 3, and Outcast and More Words.
Music has rooted in her life. Being a soloist as a teenager led her to taking voice lessons and to have ongoing singing engagements. She continues to sing soprano in choral groups. Lyrics have a major influence in the natural flow of her melodic writing. She writes memoir in the form of poetry.
Along with her brother, she took photos when the films were black and white. Photography is still her enjoyable hobby. Drawing and painting were fun activities as a child. Her favorite was to draw a Japanese girl with big eyes, long hair, small lips and chin. She resumed drawing and watercolor painting several years ago. In her poetry collection, photos and paintings are included to illustrate the poems.
She earned a Doctorate of Education from the University of La Verne in California. After two years of rehabilitation counseling, fifteen years of public school teaching and ten years in school district administration, she retired and enjoys life with her husband in southern California.
The song Miriam has chosen is a favourite of mine from The Carpenters – We’ve Only Just Begun.
And my final guest today is author and poet Mary Smithwith a photograph taken when perms were making their mark, and Mary’s looks very much better than mine ever did…
About Mary Smith
Mary Smith has always loved writing. As a child she wrote stories in homemade books made from wallpaper trimmings – but she never thought people could grow up and become real writers. She spent a year working in a bank, which she hated – all numbers, very few words – ten years with Oxfam in the UK, followed by ten years working in Pakistan and Afghanistan.
She wanted others to share her amazing, life-changing experiences so she wrote about them – fiction, non-fiction, poetry and journalism. And she discovered the little girl who wrote stories had become a real writer after all.
Drunk Chickens and Burnt Macaroni: Real Stories of Afghan Women is an account of her time in Afghanistan and her debut novel No More Mulberries is also set in Afghanistan.
And the last piece of music from the Easter Parade today chosen by Mary is by Queen, Don’t Stop Me Now.. and we certainly won’t Mary.
My thanks to my guests for sharing their photographs and music and to you for dropping in. As always love to hear from you and don’t forget to drop your links in the comments.
Delighted to share a brand new feature which is a collaboration between Kaye Lynne Booth of Writing to be Read and Robbie Cheadle. I was very honoured to be the first guest of the series and it was wonderful to be invited to share pieces of my favourite poetry.
Today is the start of a new poetry appreciation series here on Writing to be Read where I will be introducing you to a number of wonderful poets in our blogging community, discussing well known poets and their poetry and reviewing poetry books. I hope you will participate in the discussions and enjoy meeting and greeting the poets, both new and known to you, and discovering new books of poetry.
My first guest is accomplished poet and writer, Sally Cronin, of Smorgasbord Blog Magazine blog. Sally has recently published a new book of poetry, 99-word flash fiction and short stories called, Life’s Rich Tapestry: Woven in words which I have reviewed below. Before we get there, however, Sally is going to share her thoughts about her favourite poem, The Law of the Jungle by Rudyard Kipling.
Over to Sally
What is your favourite poem?
That is an extremely tough question and had me stumped for a couple of days as I wanted to revisit the poems that I have loved since childhood to make sure that this really would qualify as my favourite poem.
The Law of the Jungle by Rudyard Kipling
(From The Jungle Book)
Now this is the Law of the Jungle — as old and as true as the sky; And the Wolf that shall keep it may prosper, but the Wolf that shall break it must die. As the creeper that girdles the tree-trunk the Law runneth forward and back — For the strength of the Pack is the Wolf, and the strength of the Wolf is the Pack.
Wash daily from nose-tip to tail-tip; drink deeply, but never too deep; And remember the night is for hunting, and forget not the day is for sleep. The Jackal may follow the Tiger, but, Cub, when thy whiskers are grown, Remember the Wolf is a Hunter — go forth and get food of thine own. Keep peace with Lords of the Jungle — the Tiger, the Panther, and Bear. And trouble not Hathi the Silent, and mock not the Boar in his lair. When Pack meets with Pack in the Jungle, and neither will go from the trail, Lie down till the leaders have spoken — it may be fair words shall prevail. When ye fight with a Wolf of the Pack, ye must fight him alone and afar, Lest others take part in the quarrel, and the Pack be diminished by war. The Lair of the Wolf is his refuge, and where he has made him his home, Not even the Head Wolf may enter, not even the Council may come. The Lair of the Wolf is his refuge, but where he has digged it too plain, The Council shall send him a message, and so he shall change it again. If ye kill before midnight, be silent, and wake not the woods with your bay, Lest ye frighten the deer from the crop, and your brothers go empty away. Ye may kill for yourselves, and your mates, and your cubs as they need, and ye can; But kill not for pleasure of killing, and seven times never kill Man! If ye plunder his Kill from a weaker, devour not all in thy pride; Pack-Right is the right of the meanest; so leave him the head and the hide. The Kill of the Pack is the meat of the Pack. Ye must eat where it lies; And no one may carry away of that meat to his lair, or he dies. The Kill of the Wolf is the meat of the Wolf. He may do what he will; But, till he has given permission, the Pack may not eat of that Kill. Cub-Right is the right of the Yearling. From all of his Pack he may claim Full-gorge when the killer has eaten; and none may refuse him the same. Lair-Right is the right of the Mother. From all of her year she may claim One haunch of each kill for her litter, and none may deny her the same. Cave-Right is the right of the Father — to hunt by himself for his own: He is freed of all calls to the Pack; he is judged by the Council alone. Because of his age and his cunning, because of his gripe and his paw, In all that the Law leaveth open, the word of your Head Wolf is Law.
Now these are the Laws of the Jungle, and many and mighty are they; But the head and the hoof of the Law and the haunch and the hump is — Obey!
Robbie:This is a wonderful choice of poem, Sally. I also love it. Interestingly enough my favourite poem is also by Rudyard Kipling and I will share it later in this series.
What is your interpretation of this poem?
And to find that out you will need to head over to the post…where you will find some great questions about poetry and another of my favourites as well as Robbie’s review for my latest collection:Treasuring Poetry with Writing to be Read and Robbie Cheadle
About Kaye Lynne Booth
Kaye Lynne Booth is a freelance writer, editor, and novelist. SKaye Lynne Boothhe writes poetry, short fiction, and children’s books, as well as literary and gardening articles. She recently completed all the requirements for her dual MFA in Creative Writing and Screenwriting.
Her thesis novel, The Great Primordial Battle, is a science fantasy novel, to be the first in a four book series titled Playground for the Gods. You can follow its progress right here,(Just click the PfG tab), as well as her western novel, Delilah, (Click the My Westerns tab). You can also follow her screenwriting page on Facebook. Also, be sure to sign up for my monthly newsletter in the sidebar pop-up, and recieve a free e-copy of my paranormal mystery novelette, Hidden Secrets, as a token of my gratitude.
Her short story Last Call, and her western novel, Delilah, are both available for sale on Amazon. Her short fiction was published by Zetetic: A Record of Unusual Inquiry, and Across the Margin. Her short fiction stories “If You’re Happy and You Know It” is featured in The Collapsar Directive (August 1, 2017) & “The Devil Made Her Do It” is featured in Relationship Add Vice (December 15, 2017), both published by Zombie Pirates Publishing. She also has poetry published in Manifest West #5: Serenity and Severity (2016), and Colorado Life Magazine (September/October 2016).
Kaye is available to hire for editing, proofreading, ghostwriting, and critiquing services through email. Put the service you’re inquiring about on the subject line. Also if you wish to contact for an interview or to review your book on her blog, feel free to contact her at: Email: KayeBooth(at)yahoo(dot)com
Robbie, short for Roberta, is an author with five published children’s picture books in the Sir Chocolate books series for children aged 2 to 9 years old (co-authored with her son, Michael Cheadle), one published middle grade book in the Silly Willy series and one published preteen/young adult fictionalised biography about her mother’s life as a young girl growing up in an English town in Suffolk during World War II called While the Bombs Fell (co-authored with her mother, Elsie Hancy Eaton). All of Robbie’s children’s book are written under Robbie Cheadle and are published by TSL Publications. Robbie has recently branched into adult horror and supernatural writing and, in order to clearly differential her children’s books from her adult writing, these will be published under Roberta Eaton Cheadle. Robbie has two short stories in the horror/supernatural genre included in Dark Visions, a collection of 34 short stories by 27 different authors and edited by award winning author, Dan Alatorre. These short stories are published under Robbie Cheadle.
I have been drawn to the horror and supernatural genres of books all my life. At the age of ten years old I embarked on reading Stephen King’s books including The Shining and Salem’s Lot. These books scared me so much I had to put them aside by 6P.M. in the evening in order to get a good night’s sleep but they also fascinated me. I subsequently worked my way through all of Stephen King’s earlier books as well as those of Dean R. Koontz.
I have read a large number of classics, in particular, I enjoy Chaucer’s Canterbury Tales, Charles Dickens and the works of the Bronte sisters.
I am hugely interested in the history of the United Kingdom as well as the mythology and tales of the paranormal that are abundant on this intriguing European island.
A small selection of other Sir Chocolate stories co-written with Michael Cheadle and other work by Roberta Eaton Cheadle
Thank you for dropping in and I hope you will head over to read the post in full… also a wonderful new feature to share your love of poetry. Thanks Sally.
Welcome to the last cafe update of 2019… from Friday it will move to Smorgasbord Cafe and Bookstore…and over the coming weeks, a new look.
The first author with a recent review is Roberta Eaton Cheadle for Through the Nethergate.
About the book
Margaret, a girl born with second sight, has the unique ability to bring ghosts trapped between Heaven and Hell back to life. When her parents die suddenly, she goes to live with her beloved grandfather, but the cellar of her grandfather’s ancient inn is haunted by an evil spirit of its own. In the town of Bungay, a black dog wanders the streets, enslaving the ghosts of those who have died unnatural deaths. When Margaret arrives, these phantoms congregate at the inn, hoping she can free them from the clutches of Hugh Bigod, the 12th century ghost who has drawn them away from Heaven’s White Light in his canine guise. With the help of her grandfather and the spirits she has befriended, Margaret sets out to defeat Hugh Bigod, only to discover he wants to use her for his own ends – to take over Hell itself.
Margaret is a girl with a special gift that allows her to see ghosts who are trapped in an overworld between Heaven and Hell. She’s able to help them regain life, then help them move on in the hereafter. When she moves in with her grandfather after the death of her parents, Margaret encounters a number of ghosts, and a particularly nasty black dog that is actually the embodiment of Hugh Bigod, an evil spirit who has held the ghosts trapped for centuries. Hugh has his own ideas how Margaret’s gifts can be used to his benefit.
This is a YA horror novel that will also appeal to adults, especially with the deep research the author layers into the historical aspects of the book. I found those the strongest and was enthralled by how skillfully Cheadle brought the past to life. There are a few POV issues and a good deal of internal thought, the latter which occasionally bogs things down, but for the most part this is a quick and easy read. Margaret’s grandfather is also a strong character, and the background of many of the ghosts adds a fascinating aspect. Most of the spirits are based on historic figures. I don’t usually read books that employ Lucifer as a character, and admit to skimming some of those chapters, but overall, I found this a compelling story on multiple levels.
A selection of other Sir Chocolate stories co-written with Michael Cheadle and other books by Robbie Cheadle
Now for a recent review for C.S. Boyack and Viral Blues (The Hat Book 2)
About the book
Someone knows about the hat. The creature from another dimension that helps Lizzie fight against the creatures of darkness.
They are summoned to a cryptic meeting with a secret society, where they meet other people with enhanced skills. It turns out someone, or something, has been tampering with the world’s vaccine supply. The goal doesn’t appear to be political or financial, but biblical pestilence.
Can this group of loners come together in time to make a difference when even the proper authorities are obstacles?
Check out Viral Blues, for your dose of paranormal adventure, with a strong sample of dark humor. And in recent superhero style, don’t miss the secret last chapter after the back material.
Okay – maybe they’re not the real Avengers, but these characters are still a talented team fighting for the same cause, each bringing a different skill set to the table. Although I wasn’t as familiar with a couple of characters, I’d had such fun reading about Lizzie and the Hat in the first book, knew Lisa (one of my favs) from the author’s blog, and adored Clovis (love his style) and his dog from The Playground. With such a stellar collection of characters, I had high expectations for this novel – and Boyack didn’t disappoint. The addition of zombies (I’m a big fan) to the story just made it even better.
With a touch of the paranormal, witty and amusing dialogue, thrilling action scenes, and a cast of lively characters, Viral Blues is a rousing adventure I highly recommend. Once you’ve finished, you’ll be anxious to check out each character in their previous books.
A recent review for the latest children’s book by Eloise de Sousa.. Space Dust
About Space Dust
We’re going on a trip in Big Ox’s canoe. Watch the fire bears roar on Venus as pepper pot trees grow on the moon. As Big Ox steers us to the planets, Litte One wonders if Mum will come home soon.
A very cute picture book that will make both the adult and the child smile. Lovely simple illustrations by the author which are colourful and fun. A recommendation for parents, carers and grandparents to read to their little ones.
Received a copy of the book from the author but my opinions are my own and unbiased.
#Recommended for young children, parents, grandparents, carers.
A small selection of other books by Eloise de Sousa
Christina Strigas is a Montreal, Greek-Canadian, who has self-published three novels. a trilogy based upon the real life of Zaharoula Sarakinis, a spiritual healer.
Smorgasbord Blog Magazine 