Connecting the Dots

My thoughts on art, books & life.

Princess April Morning Glory by Letitia Fairbanks

Princess April Morning-Glory by Letitia Fairbanks is full of beautiful hand calligraphy and watercolor illustrations. It’s like an illuminated manuscript resurrected from the Hollywood vaults. It is clear to see why it remained unprintable for so many years- especially since the original is produced on hand made paper with silver and gold leaf!

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Books for Kids Who Lose Someone by Holly Papa

Many of you know this already, but my Grandpa passed away at the end of January. We expected him to go, and were glad that he no longer suffered the effects of age and illness. However, it was still hard. We only live a few miles away, so we saw him on a regular basis. This was my kids first close experience with human loss- we've had pets pass before, and they lost some other great grandparents...

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Ungifted by Gordon Korman

Donovan Curtis is a magnet for trouble. He can't seem to avoid it no matter where he goes. So when he destroys his middle school gym, he needs a place to hide. When some paperwork gets mixed up in the disaster, Donovan gets the best hideout handed to him on a silver platter. The Academy of Scholastic Distinction- or the gifted school. He knows he's in major trouble if he's discovered, so Donovan...

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Penelope Crumb & Penelope Crumb Never Forgets by Shawn K. Stout

Penelope is a recent discovery for me- she can be your newest discovery too! I've read books 1 & 2 in this brand new series that promises lots of fun and adventure. Penelope's spunky and annoying and downright adorable. She has parts to her that all of us can identify with and although most of would be happy to be her friend, we might want a break or two once in a while. Penelope Crumb's the...

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J. Scott Savage is in Boise!

J. Scott Savage, author of the Far World Series is coming to do a book signing in Boise and Meridian! What? You’ve never been to a book signing? Book signings are so fun people! You want to know how I know Mr. Savage is cool? Okay, I’ll tell you: He’s teaching a class at WIFYR this summer. You know, that amazing writer’s conference Cari and I keep telling you guys about every summer? Well, they only let cool authors come there. That’s how I know.

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What do you do when you have too many books?

This isn't a book review. It's a question. I'd like to know what you do when you have too many books? Or, does your world match the poster in my kid's room by David Shannon which says Never Enough Books? I enjoyed this article today on Houzz and thought I would share it with you all. It has some great ideas and tips. And it also made me feel more okay with my decision to park a big bookshelf in...

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We Go Together! A Curious Selection of Affectionate verse by Calef Brown

This is the perfect universal valentine gift! It is so quirky and unusual that it has something for everyone. We Go Together A Curious Selection of Affectionate Verse leaves lots of room for wondering just which poem best applies, and at the same time ensures that each recipient knows they are loved and appreciated- platonically or otherwise. With so many verses to choose from, there is sure to be a favorite for everyone. What’s your favorite valentine verse?

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Book ideas for Boys for Christmas Gifts

Book ideas for Boys for Christmas, Holidays or Birthday Gifts. This post is a copy of an adaptation of an email I sent to a friend in response to her request for help to find good books for her Nephew this Christmas. It is by no means comprehensive, but hopefully there is something here you haven’t heard before. I hope you find success in sharing reading with the boys you love!

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Wrapped by Jennifer Bradbury audio book read by Elissa Steele

Wrapped is a great audio book for teen girl. Agnes Wilkins is a beautiful young woman about to make her debut on London’s high society. She is invited to a mummy unwrapping party and discovers that she has stumbled upon a mystery when she is chosen to cut into the ancient mummy wrappings. Of course, in keeping with Jane Austen’s most famous decree that every single, wealthy man is in want of a wife, Agnes is expected to be snatched up by her wealthy bachelor neighbor, the dry arrogant Lord Showalter who loves to flaunt his wealth and knowledge (he’s also the host of the unwrapping party)

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After Hello Author Interview with Lisa Mangum!

Today I am featuring an interview with author Lisa Mangum here at Bookscoops. Lisa has written my top favorite time travel series, the Hourglass Door Trilogy. Please join us in celebrating her most recent novel, After Hello. Be sure to check out the links at the end of the interview for some fun opportunities!

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After Hello by Lisa Mangum Review by Holly Papa

After Hello covers such a short period of time that it is amazing the depth and character development taking place. Sara and Sam are both in very different places by the end of the book. A 24-ish hour difference. I was left hanging at the end of the book and would love a sequel even though that’s not in the plans. You can read all about it in my author interview with Lisa Mangum where she tells us her upcoming plans here.

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Poopendous! by Artie Bennett

I have to admit I was excited to get this book to review courtesy of Author Artie Bennett. I know it sounds rather odd that a book like this would excite me so much. But not really, when you consider that I am the mother to four boys. We once spent a whole dinner discussing the finer points of passing gas- yes, everyone- well actually, everything that has a digestive tract does this (we had to...

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Canadian Souvenir

Canadian Souvenir

I found this adorable little bear in the bathroom of my hotel room on our family vacation to Cardston, Canada in June. He was stuck inside one of the tiles, so sad and lonely. My husband couldn't see anything in there, but humored me by taking our boys on a little walk so I could sit on the toilet (lid down) with my sketch book and help him escape. Now I just need to help him tell his story. I...

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Princess Grace Cover Sketch

Princess Grace Cover Sketch

This is a cover sketch for a book Dummy I've been working on. Grace is a cat princess who has a puppy named Wiff. Grace is a princess who has plans- plans for a prince, and a happily ever after. When Grace gets glasses, her plans are turned upside down. Princesses in fairytales don’t wear glasses! So Grace sets out to find a prince without her glasses. Her adventures in looking for prince...

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