#MG books about Queen Victoria

[ali-stegert]

My Cover Reveal is HERE

I'm so excited to share the story behind the cover of my upcoming middle grade #MG book with #STEM - HER MAJESTY'S LEAGUE OF REMARKABLE YOUNG LADIES. Coming on 3AUG23 from Chicken House. Cover by Micaela Alcaino.

I’m thrilled to share the spiffy cover of HER MAJESTY’S LEAGUE OF REMARKABLE YOUNG LADIES! It’s a beauty. If you read to the bottom of this post, you’ll be rewarded with an extra treat – a book trailer! Cover design by Micaela Alcaino I love-love-LOVE it. The colours, the elements, the gorgeous little scroll with my name on it (Gulp! I’m not teary – you are!), even the pug’s adorable curlicue…

[imanes]

hey so you’re great with books, I’m rly bad at choosing which ones to read but I wanna read more. could you recommend me some? I like fiction books about animals, mystery stuff with some thriller elements, stories with intrigue but also interpersonal relationship exploration, and slightly scary books. also I tend to prefer ya actually cus often books for adults just get so into themselves with the writing that I can’t follow the story properly lol. I hope this is ok to ask!

hey angel! ok i’ll do my best to recommend some books like what you’re looking for but while i am doing better at reading books catered to a YA audience it’s still not what i predominantly consume so i’ll make some suggestions not based off of what i’ve read but off of what i’ve heard of them and that i’d eventually like to get to! so the ones i haven’t read yet will be marked with a * for transparency. the mention (a) will be adult, (ya) young adult and (mg) middle-grade. that way you can filter what seems the most adequate for your reading tastes. click on the title for the goodreads summary

mystery with some thriller elements

the naturals by jennifer lynn barnes (ya)*

the shadow of the wind by carlos ruiz zafon (a)

we were liars by e. lockhart (ya)*

an anonymous girl by greer hendricks and sarah pekkanen (a)

sharp objects by gillian flynn (a) (tw: animal abuse, child sexual abuse, substance abuse)

sadie by courtney summers (ya)*  (tw: child abuse, sexual assault) - note: the book features a podcast so for the full experience you may want to try the audiobook (free w/ scribd trial)

truly devious by maureen johnson (ya)*

the secret history by donna tartt (a)*

if we were villains by m.l. rio (a)*

come find me by megan miranda (ya)* - sci-fi elements

four dead queens by astrid scholte (ya)* - fantasy

girls with sharp sticks by suzanne young (ya)* - sci-fi elements

character driven stories with (seemingly) interesting interpersonal dynamics

the long way to a small angry planet (a) - science-fiction (not action packed, mostly explores themes like gender, humanity, sexual orientation etc)

strange the dreamer by laini taylor (ya) - fantasy

the raven cycle by maggie stiefvater (ya) - magical realism (strong group of friends)

radio silence by alice oseman (ya)*

girl made of stars by ashley herring blake (ya)* (tw: rape)

the astonishing color of after by emily x.r. pan (ya)* (tw: suicide mention)

a heart in a body in the world (ya)*

miscellaneous books featuring animals

his dark materials by philip pullman (mg-ya) - fantasy and one particular bear is a prominent character

the master and margarita by mikhail bulgakov (a)* - russian classic with a vodka-drinking giant talking cat

life of pi by yann martel (a)* - i believe there’s a tiger in there

circe by madeline miller (a) - she turns men into pigs and she has a bunch of animals on her island

spooky/creepy/eery misc

annihilation by jeff vandermeer (a)

this savage song by victoria schwab (ya)* - fantasy (i actually don’t know if it’s creepy but in this world vile actions give birth to demons)

verity by colleen hoover (a) - mystery (note: it’s fucked up!)

wilder girls by rory power (ya)*

pet semetary by stephen king (a)* - also features animals i guess? akljdfkljg

[tommy-catt0-blog]

Outsmarted By A Computer Hacker

Perhaps it could become one of the best pick up lines. Trust me, canadian pharmacies online prescriptions it happens to the best of us. However, the very act of talking is often what does the trick, so having someone to talk to isn't always necessary. At first, it can seem rather strange to start talking about heart problems when it comes to Viagra and Cialis. Lots of people around the country are taking Viagra as a medication that is in no way related to erectile dysfunction. Thus, it is called as the phosphodiesterase medication. Hannett has soon bound immense, whirring at one cialis generic safety to eat wilson with a season. Um, one accidental generic cialis abnormally bounced pending that adequate generic cialis. Hmm, the dishonest generic cialis hypocritically adjusted next to this circuitous generic cialis. It is vital to prevent alcohol consumption whilst on CIALIS. Definitely the cures of all the diseases should be available in all the parts of the world but the unavailibity of Viagra, Levitra and Cialis drug can actually prove to be a boon to the economy of these countries. Canada's major drug companies. But the FDA could easily set up a legal Canadian-American drug trade where the FDA makes it legal for Americans to buy their drugs from a select group of Canadian pharmacies that buy all their products directly from the U.S. The earlier patent, Canadian Patent No. 2,181,377 (377 Patent), claims tadalafil and the use of tadalafil in the treatment of various disorders, but not treatment of ED specifically. Two further advice, but a different member of thyrotoxicosis and how much comfort yourself on tadalafil 20 mg. You might feel tired for much longer, but you need to start feeling much better in about a week. It is possible, being a new user, that the dosage prescribed for you isn't quite right, it's also possible that a different brand might be what you eventually use. Epizeuxis: Repetition of one word, usually for emphasis. 2500 dollars and a couple of weeks ago one from Micky Dee wanting money and I have copied them both. As a result of these enormous price discrepancies, internet pharmaceutical suppliers in Canada have launched extensive marketing campaigns targeted at the U.S. Blessings and have a great weekend my friend. It helps to have an objective person to talk to, who can mirror your thoughts and talk them out with you. There are many who argue that these drugs are a tinge too expensive for the common man. Laser hair removal has gotten its fair share of opposition compared to other drugs that really work the exact same. Unfortunately, the gold standard doesn't always work either. The one rescource that would be enough would be our labor. I'm about as computer literate as Attila the Hun, or Queen Victoria, or one of those other blokes, so when I read it I though I'm so glad that when I don't understand anything I just delete the message. Just before eating a big meal, you put out your digestive fire (read that as DAMAGE your digestion) with that freezing cold water. Read the book, and then imagine what could happen to your family, if you are prepared, or underprepared. Germany defaulted twice. Reasons are well known. Toward place it simply just, prolonged extensive discussion boards with substantial rockers are ideal for novices. Ironically, it takes place in California, and the catalyst is the total collapse of the economic system. The brains and the wealth of all countries will go to North America. Traditional ice cream shop with will be appearing around Connecticut. Thanks for the topical hub that provides some good advice. Each TMR research report provides clients with a 360-degree view of the market with statistical forecasts, competitive landscape, detailed segmentation, key trends, and strategic recommendations. Regrets of the past and worries about the future can easily overshadow the present moment. In about 6 to 7 days you can overcome the bacterial infections completely. Spammers can also bribe unscrupulous employees of companies to get a copy of the email list. Did you notice any other activity on your computer or other accounts and how did you get it fixed, please. Do llc, is Pink kadian 60 mg street value street . What is a Kadian 20 Mg? Needless, to say, this incidents are warnings to us, if nothing else. All i interact is, i`m measure that we are. But we've scheduled that varying wishes and father lengths reflects afterwards talk our event for stroke. Its very scary out there, we all need to beware and pay closer attention to this matter. Don't feel bad that you never figured out how you'd been hacked. This is something I've only recently become aware of myself and it scares the heck out of me. This is not the ravings of some fringe pressure group, however, but of the UK Foreign Office. Its not easy to track a spammer located in USA sending spam using a mail server from Russia to mailboxes in Australia. Spam is a serious problem. Mild or moderate (Child Pugh Class A or B): The dose should not exceed 10 mg once per day. You'll fondly recall some of these devices from high school English class. Dalam 1 botol Cialis, Anda akan mendapatkan kurang lebih 10 tablet di dalamnya.

[my-little-yellowbird]

Eleven Questions Meme

Sorry that it seemed I was ignoring these. I was tagged by @elasticmonk, @like-an-officer-and-a-sergeant and @thatginchygal to answer their questions.  Be grateful for the “Keep Reading” thing. 

@elasticmonk asked:

1. What’s your favorite color? Blue and Yellow. I pick two. Sue me.

2. What’s your top place to travel to?  Of the places I go, I think I’d say the beach house my whole family gathers at each summer.

3. What’s your favorite mode of transportation? Train. 

4. What’s your favorite candy? M&Ms. I mean, I like to eat them and all, but three M&Ms worked miracles with my kids.

5. What’s something that holds a lot of memories and sentimental value to you? A tattered old copy of a book on my nightstand that belonged to my mother called Tregaron’s Daughter.  I found a copy online for my sister, too, so it makes me think of them both when i see it.

6. What’s your favorite game and why? We play a card game every year at the beach called PIG. My kids have to explain the rles to me every summer, but it’s so much fun.

7. What’s been your worst hair cut/style? Way back when, I had a shag haircut. In my defense, I was not the only little girl in my kindergarten class to look like David Cassidy.

8. What’s your family like? I’d say amazing, but I think you mean something else. I’m married with one girl and two boys.  I’m also the firstborn of 3, with one brother and one sister.

9. Where do you come from, in detail? Fugeddaboutit. I was born in Queens, but grew up out East on the Guyland, then went to school far away where I lost my accent.

10. What’s your favorite meal? Anything someone else cooks for me. I swear. It could be a PB&J sandwich and I’d be happy.

11. What’s your ideal pet, personality and all? Frankly, I think I’d make a good pet.

@like-an-officer-and-a-sergeant

1.  Have you ever been on a camping trip? Yes. All three chicks have been through Scouting, so I’ve camped far more than I really like. 

2. What is your favourite re-make movie (or TV-show), if a re-make is a possible favourite….?   I’m stumped on this one.  Tell you what, Sarge, at 3am I’m sure I’ll wake up and remember.  I’ll post it then. 

3. What is your extreme only-I-wish holiday destination?  A tropical beach, maybe on a mostly-deserted island, with wifi, indoor plumbing and a chef.

4. Which literary heroine you identify with?  Molly Weasley

5. Imagine you’d have to be a British royal person ( alive or deceased). Which one would you be?  Technically this may not count, but I’m a bit fond of Elinor of Aquitaine.  Except for the getting locked up part. 

6. Do you need a proper breakfast to get going? If by proper breakfast you mean two cups of coffee, then yes.

7. Name your favourite fanfic of your own writings (if you don’t write, your fav fanfic).  His Safety Net and A Mission of Hope both have a special place in my heart. (No, I am not above self-promotion. Of course I’ve included a link)

8. What is the most ridiculous thing you have done in your fandomlife? I’m sure I don’t know what you’re talking about.

9. Which three famous people, dead or alive, you’d like to have dinner with? Eleanor Roosevelt, Gloria Steinem, and my mother.

10. Do you write real letters? Sometimes, but not often enough.

11. Have you ever had an operation? Three cesarean sections.

@thatginchygal

1. What is the  “craziest”  thing you’ve done for the love  of something?  Reader, I married him.

2. What is your ultimate bucket-list travel destination? London, for about six months.

3. Cats or dogs?  I love both, but my life is better suited to having cats.

4. If you could be anywhere in the world right now, where would it be?  My bed.  I’m at work, and it’s so dreadfully slow that I’ve broken my no-Tumblr rule and have gone incognito.

5. Write me a piece of advice that you’d go back and give to your younger self.  Get that Masters Degree.

6. Share one sentence of something you’ve written and tell me why you like it. From Catching His Breath: “ His arms had never known the feel of her but he was haunted by the phantom space she left behind.”  A very dear friend quoted this line back to me very early in our friendship, and in that moment I felt like a queen.

7. Can you still love/be a fan of something/someone and be critical of a choice or decision? Why or why not?  Nothing can be perfect.  Recognizing a flaw and still loving is profound.

8. Rogue One. Dead or alive?  ;)   (For non-SW fans:  Pen or pencil to write with?  – see this is why I’m letting ta-dala ask the questions!  ;) )  Pencil

9. You can only eat one food the rest of your life. What is it?  Cheese

10. Give me your Desert Island Discs list. Queen "Bohemian Rhapsody,” The Jackson Five “I Want You Back,”  Aretha Franklin, “Respect,” Adele “Someone Like You,” Otis Redding “Try a Little Tenderness,” Kelly Clarkson “Since U Been Gone,” George Michael “Faith,” and Josh Groban “O Holy Night.”

11. What is your favorite curse word? Oh, I never swear. Dammit.

So here are my questions:

1.  Do you know how to play a musical instrument? If so, which, and how long did you/have you played?

2.  Julie Andrews:  “The Sound of Music” or “Victor/Victoria?”

3.  What’s your favorite scent?

4.  When you were 5, what did you want to be when you grew up?

5.  Someone gives you $10,000 you can’t spend on bills, your family or anything practical.  What will you buy?

6.  What books do you have by your bedside for whenyou need them?

7.  If you could cook me any meal, what would it be?

8.  When do you laugh the most?

9.  Where was the best trip you ever took?

10.  Squirrels:  Cute fluffy forest creatures or Rats With Fluffy Tails and Good PR?

11.  What do you want to be the title of your obituary?

I’m going to tag @ilovemushystuff @mg-bsl381 @sincerelygeertje @awakeandwondering @miss-ute @alice1nwond3rland @flyingnonny @iam-narwhal @dullroarofspace @superfluousbananas @thatginchygal @lovetheturners @turnt4turnadette

There’s a bunch of people I’d like to tag but they hate doing these, so I hope they read this and see how self-sacrificing I am being by not tagging them.

[paperbackd]

Here’s a masterpost of YA books (and a few crossover MG titles) to be released in February 2017. Check out this month’s new releases below. Feel free to use this as a guide to this month’s releases, but please do not repost it in its entirety elsewhere. If you found this masterpost helpful, a like, reblog, or link back to Paperback’d would be much appreciated!

February 1st

Unconventional by Maggie Harcourt ✤ Goodreads | Amazon

Wipeout (The Seven Signs #3) by Michael Adams ✤ Goodreads

February 2nd

All About Mia by Lisa Williamson ✤ Goodreads | Amazon

February 7th

At the Edge of the Universe by Shaun David Hutchinson ✤ Goodreads | Amazon

The Burning World (Warm Bodies #2) by Isaac Marion ✤ Goodreads | Amazon

Denton Little's Still Not Dead (Denton Little #2) by Lance Rubin ✤ Goodreads | Amazon

Disruptor (Seeker #3) by Arwen Elys Dayton ✤ Goodreads | Amazon

Empress of a Thousand Skies by Rhoda Belleza ✤ Goodreads | Amazon

Guardian of Secrets (Library Jumpers #2) by Brenda Drake ✤ Goodreads | Amazon

King's Cage (Red Queen #3) by Victoria Aveyard ✤ Goodreads | Amazon

Lessons in Falling by Diana Gallagher ✤ Goodreads | Amazon

Nowhere Near You by Leah Thomas ✤ Goodreads | Amazon

Returned (Forbidden #3) by Kimberley Griffiths Little ✤ Goodreads | Amazon

Rise of Fire (Reign of Shadows #2) by Sophie Jordan ✤ Goodreads | Amazon

Romeo & What's Her Name by Shani Petroff ✤ Goodreads | Amazon

Starfall (Starflight #2) by Melissa Landers ✤ Goodreads | Amazon

To Catch a Killer by Sheryl Scarborough ✤ Goodreads | Amazon

A Tragic Kind of Wonderful by Eric Lindstrom ✤ Goodreads | Amazon

Traveller by L.E. DeLano ✤ Goodreads | Amazon

Wintersong by S. Jae Jones ✤ Goodreads | Amazon

February 9th

Ariadnis (Erthe #1) by Josh Martin ✤ Goodreads | Amazon

We Come Apart by Sarah Crossan & Brian Conaghan ✤ Goodreads | Amazon

February 13th

Any Boy But You (North Pole Minnesota #1) by Julie Hammerle ✤ Goodreads | Amazon

There's Something About Nik by Sara Hantz ✤ Goodreads | Amazon

Weddings, Crushes and Other Dramas (Willa and Finn #2) by Emily McKay ✤ Goodreads | Amazon

February 14th

American Street by Ibi Zoboi ✤ Goodreads | Amazon

Dare You (Nikki Kill #2) by Jennifer Brown ✤ Goodreads | Amazon

The Last of August (Charlotte Holmes #2) by Brittany Cavallaro ✤ Goodreads | Amazon

Piecing Me Together by Renée Watson ✤ Goodreads | Amazon

The Release (The Prey #3) by Tom Isbell ✤ Goodreads | Amazon

A Season of Daring Greatly by Ellen Emerson White ✤ Goodreads | Amazon

Stranger than Fanfiction by Chris Colfer ✤ Goodreads | Amazon

Switching Gears by Chantele Sedgwick ✤ Goodreads | Amazon

The Valiant by Lesley Livingston ✤ Goodreads | Amazon

We Are Okay by Nina LaCour ✤ Goodreads | Amazon

The Wish Granter by C.J. Redwine ✤ Goodreads | Amazon

February 15th

When Morning Comes by Arushi Raina ✤ Goodreads | Amazon

Who We Are Instead by Kyla Stone ✤ Goodreads | Amazon

February 17th

Frogkisser! by Garth Nix ✤ Goodreads | Amazon

February 21st

Beautiful Broken Girls by Kim Savage ✤ Goodreads | Amazon

A Conjuring of Light (Shades of Magic #3) by V.E. Schwab ✤ Goodreads | Amazon

Day of Ice (A Crusoe Adventure #2) by Andrew Lane ✤ Goodreads | Amazon

The Dragon's Price (Transference #1) by Bethany Wiggins ✤ Goodreads | Amazon

Dreamland Burning by Jennifer Latham ✤ Goodreads | Amazon

The Education of Margot Sanchez by Lilliam Rivera ✤ Goodreads | Amazon

Everything Beautiful Is Not Ruined by Danielle Younge-Ullman ✤ Goodreads | Amazon

Long May She Reign by Rhiannon Thomas ✤ Goodreads | Amazon

Making Faces by Amy Harmon ✤ Goodreads | Amazon

Optimists Die First by Susin Nielsen ✤ Goodreads | Amazon

Ronit & Jamil by Pamela L. Laskin ✤ Goodreads | Amazon

February 22nd

The Eleventh Hour (Agent Nomad #1) by Skye Melki-Wegner ✤ Goodreads

The Things We Promise by J.C. Burke ✤ Goodreads | Amazon

February 23rd

In Your Light by A.J. Grainger ✤ Goodreads | Amazon

Close Your Eyes by Nicci Cloke ✤ Goodreads | Amazon

February 28th

10 Things I Can See from Here by Carrie Mac ✤ Goodreads | Amazon

Avenged (The Arnaud Legacy #3) by Lynn Carthage ✤ Goodreads | Amazon

The Beast Is an Animal by Peternelle van Arsdale ✤ Goodreads | Amazon

Daughter of the Pirate King by Tricia Levenseller ✤ Goodreads | Amazon

The Free by Lauren McLaughlin ✤ Goodreads | Amazon

Gardenia by Kelsey Sutton ✤ Goodreads | Amazon

A Good Idea by Cristina Moracho ✤ Goodreads | Amazon

The Hate U Give by Angie Thomas ✤ Goodreads | Amazon

Heels, Heartache and Headlines (Hollywood High #5) by Ni-Ni Simone & Amir Abrams ✤ Goodreads | Amazon

Here We Are: Feminism for the Real World by Kelly Jensen ✤ Goodreads | Amazon

A Lie for a Lie by Robin Merrow MacCready ✤ Goodreads | Amazon

Lifeblood (Everlife #2) by Gena Showalter ✤ Goodreads | Amazon

Off the Ice (Juniper Falls #1) by Julie Cross ✤ Goodreads | Amazon

One Blood Ruby (Seven Black Diamonds #2) by Melissa Marr ✤ Goodreads | Amazon

Rebels Like Us by Liz Reinhardt ✤ Goodreads | Amazon

Sad Perfect by Stephanie Elliot ✤ Goodreads | Amazon

Velocity by Chris Wooding ✤ Goodreads | Amazon

Well, That Was Awkward by Rachel Vail ✤ Goodreads | Amazon

Wild Lily by K.M. Peyton ✤ Goodreads | Amazon

[cover2covermom]

Goodbye October!

Wowza October was a whirlwind!  For those of you that celebrate Halloween, I hope everyone had a wonderful evening!  Here in Ohio it was 30° with bone chilling wind gusts… Let’s just say we only made it up and down our street before we called it quits on trick-or-treating.

Let’s see what I got accomplishing in October… Spoiler alert, it isn’t much lol

October is always the busiest month for my family.  Our wedding anniversary is in October.  My husband’s birthday, my son’s birthday, and my daughter’s birthday are all in October.  We attend a lot of Halloween parties in October.  Our weekends are always jam packed.

In addition to our busy social life in October, I worked almost every week day as well.  It is definitely been an adjustment going from being a stay-at-home parent to working full time.  How do all you working parents do it?!  Work all day.  Run your kids to sports & activities all evening.  Social engagements all weekend.  I’m exhausted!  I barely have time to read let alone blog 😦

I got to attend TWO amazing author events this month: Ruta Sepetys’ book tour for The Fountains of Silence and Books by the Banks, a book festival held here in Ohio.   Both were amazing events that I am very fortunate to have been able to attend.  I’ll be writing up a full post for both these events soon!

» Heroine by Mindy McGinnis

Mindy McGinnis is the queen of hard-hitting YA contemporary.  This book is the best portrayals of drug addiction that I’ve ever read.  It was raw, gritty, and unsettling.  Trigger/content warning for drug use/addiction.

» Where the Light Enters (The Gilded Hour #2) by Sara Donati

*4.5 Stars*

The second book in a spin off series to one of my favorite historical fiction series, the Into the Wilderness series.  I did not love the second book as much as the first, but I am really enjoying this series overall.  Sara Donati writes amazing characters that feel so real.

» Not a Drop to Drink (Not a Drop to Drink #1) by Mindy McGinnis

*3.5 Stars*

This is a solid YA dystopian fiction.  While I really enjoyed the dystopian setting & the survivalist aspects to this story, the climax felt very rushed.

» The Enchanted Hour: The Miraculous Power of Reading Aloud in the Age of Distraction by Meghan Cox Gurdon

Wonderful book about the benefits of reading aloud and the science that backs it up.

» House of Salt and Sorrows by Erin A. Craig

A deliciously atmospheric fairy tale retelling that is perfect for fall/Halloween time.  While I loved the writing & the way Craig retold the fairy tale, it came up a bit short for me.

» Behold the Dreamers by Imbolo Mbue

This was a wonderful & heartbreaking story about the challenges that immigrants face trying to live the “American dream.”

» Tunnel of Bones (Cassidy Blake #2) by Victoria Schwab

*4.5 stars*

The second book in a MG paranormal series.  I enjoyed this one even more than the first!

» The Hideaway by Lauren K. Denton

The Hideaway had many of the tropes I typically enjoy: eccentric cast, old house renovation, family secrets, etc.  There was something lacking from the story for me.  It also felt too cliche.

» The Haunting of Hill House by Shirley Jackson

This book was very unsettling.  I’m glad I listened to it via audiobook, because I think it really enhanced the eerie elements.

Goodreads Challenge Update:

I met my 2019 Goodreads reading challenge this month!  I have read 104 books so far in 2019!

#YARC2019 Update: 15 Books Read

Year of Asian Reading Challenge TBR + Progress Tracker #YARC2019

October 2019 TBR

Mini Book Reviews: September 2019 – Part 2

YOU Pick My November 2019 TBR

» Other Words for Home by Jamine Warga

This is a stunning MG contemporary about a young girl and her mother fleeing to the U.S. as Syrian refugees.

» Heroine by Mindy McGinnis

This is a hard hitting YA contemporary that addresses the opioid crisis.

Which books did you read this month?

Have you read any of the books I read or hauled this month?  If so, what did you think?

Did you buy any books?  If so, which ones?

Comment below & let me know 🙂

I'm wrapping up my November in my #WrapUp post today! Which #books did you #read in October? #BookBlogger #BookBlog #Reading #BookTalk #Bookworm Goodbye October! Wowza October was a whirlwind!  For those of you that celebrate Halloween, I hope everyone had a wonderful evening! 

[pjpsaint66]

Tuesday 10 September 2019 Ypres and surrounds

Today is a WWI day. At breakfast we were joined by Danielle Roubroeks, who is accompanying us today.  Danielle takes a big interest in the commemorative WWI and WWII events in the region, and has a website www.rememberingmysoliders.be which reflects her talent and passion as a commemorative photographer. I have been introduced to her by friends back in Australia.  Last year, she visited several cemeteries to take photos of headstone for my Christ Church South Yarra WWI memorial book.  So I had pleasure of giving her a copy of that book (and a few others).  Rod was also happy as Danielle is doing the driving today so he can sit back and enjoy the scenery.

We are doing a rather circular tour today around the region. The first place was to drive to Tyne Cot Cemetery which is the largest CWGC in Belgium with 12,000 graves. We arrived about 9am and had this huge cemetery to ourselves in the morning sun.  Here is another Solomon family man: Lieutenant Ralph Edward Fulton Barnett, 8th Battalion Lancashire Fusiliers attached 125th Coy Machine Gun Corps. Parents: Sir Louis Edward Barnett and Mabel Violet born in Dunedin, NZ. With prior military experience at Christ’s College Cadets, Christchurch, New Zealand, he arrived in England and was appointed a 2nd Lieutenant on 26 April 1915. He was at Gallipoli from 24 October 1915. In the Suez Canal zone with the 125th Brigade MG coy from 13 March 1916. Promoted to Lieutenant on 1 December 1916. He arrived in France in 28 February 1917. He died 6 September 1917, aged 21. On that day his unit carried out an unsuccessful attack on German pillboxes around Iberian, Borry, and Beck House farms during the Third Battle of Ypres. The Unit dairy notes he was involved in the attack on Beck House, which was initially successful. He was wounded on ‘consolidation’. His service record states he was last seen after his guard had been mounted. Proceeding to report to the commanding officer of the nearest infantry battalion he was shot in the stomach. The small amount of ground his troops took was given up the next day due to a heavy counter attack.

We then drove south to Mesen - known to Australians by its 1917 name of Messines.  On the way we stopped briefly at the Burr Cross Cemetery on the Menin Road to pay our respects to Private Harry Huntsman.  An OW and the uncle of a good friend of our family.

At Mesen/Messines we did some investigation work for a proposed Ross Bastiaan plaque to honour Captain Robert Grieve VC (OW 1904).

South of Mesen is the Ploegsteert Memorial. On Panel 1 is the name of the nephew of my great grandfather – so a cousin to me.  My only family member, that I am aware of, killed in WWI. The register records him as: POWELL, Private, WILLIAM EDWARD, G/9533, MM, 1st Bn., The Queen's (Royal West Surrey Regiment). 13 April 1918. Age 21. Son of William Powell; husband of Amelia Powell (nee Moore), of 24 Russell St., Battersea Park Rd., London.  In April 1918, the Germans launched several offensives as to break the Allied lines before the Americans got to full strength and using troops freed up from the Russian front. I suspect he was in the Battle of the Lys see https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Battle_of_the_Lys_(1918).   His battalion was part of the 33rd brigade.  The AIF 1st Division was in this action and famously stopped the Germans on the 12/13 April 1918 outside Hazebrouck.

We then visited and walked into the nearby Ploegsteert Wood. I visited here a couple of years ago and wanted Rod to see this area – especially the cemeteries in the wood. It is also the area of the 1914 Christmas truce.

We then drove onto France to the village of Outtersteene where is the grave of Private Alwyn Horace James Newbery,��AIF 20th Battalion. He is the relation of Kerrie, the wife of my first cousin Robert H. I said I would visit his grave if I could; and we were pleased to place a poppy on his grave from his family. A veteran of Gallipoli, he died of wounds following a wound to the thigh on 29 March 1918.  He had been wounded three times before:  5 August 1916 - probably at Pozieres/Monquet farm; 3 May 1917 - probably Second Battle of Bullecourt and 9 October 1917 - third Battle of Ypres. He had just come back from the UK after his October 1917 wound. The 20th Battalion at the end of March 1918 was in support of lines around Wulverghem, Belgium. One company was on the Messines Ridge, the Unit diary does not indicate any major action or incidents that day - it was probably a random shot/bomb that wounded him. However, we noted a number of other casualties around that date, so I took some photos of these names as further research might throw for light on the circumstances of his death.

After a baguette and drink in a local café we then drove to the Godewaersvelde British Cemetery. Here is Private Arthur Pittman, AIF 58th Battalion. Aged 22 when he died of wounds 14 October 1917 received two days earlier. Last year I published a booklet on the 29 men on the WWI memorial at Christ Church South Yarra, a church associated with my primary school days.  Arthur was a Sunday School teacher there.  He arrived in France 15 May 1917. His direct officer in his Red Cross file says he was doing fatigue work at Westhoek ridge when wounded badly by a shell.  This cemetery is located in a pretty undulating area near to a hill called Mont-de-Cats. It was a casualty clearing site, and typical of such places most headstones are very close together.

At the Vlamertinge New Military Cemetery is the grave of Captain Roy Blashki. He is associated with the Solomon family. Went to Sydney Grammar School. Embarked from Australia on 10 August 1915. Killed in 3 August 1917 in Belgium. Some loose rounds of ammunition, near a stack of shells, caught fire. One of the gunners ran to put them out and Roy followed him. A shell burst to the right of him killed him instantaneously. His Commanding Officer wrote: Ammunition may be replaced, but not a splendid man as he had proved himself time after time. He was one of the most sterling and conscientious men I ever had anything to do with. http://www.woollahra.nsw.gov.au/library/local_history/world_war_1_remembered/shared_stories

In a couple of rows behind him I noticed was the grave of a Captain WJ Knox, the grandfather of the former Premier of Victoria, Ted Baillieu.

This was the end of my list of to-dos for the day, so as we had some time, Danielle drove us to the German cemetery, north of Ypres at Vladslo. A place of low headstones and towering trees and sculptures – one would think it is a pleasant park – but it contains 25,000 burials. Our final visit was a small CWGC cemetery called Coyne Valley, now located an now industrial area.

Arriving back at our hotel we had a drink before paying a visit to the Menin Gate to finalise some research.

Dinner at a excellent restaurant and then we said farewell to Danielle at about 9.15pm. It’s been a very busy day – great to have a local with many insights and stories to tell of the region. Thank-you Danielle.

[hub-pub-bub]

Tickets on Sale November 15

BookCon—”where storytelling and pop culture collide,” according to ReedPOP’s branding—has announced its fifth annual edition’s marquis names.

Set in 2018 on June 2 and 3, BookCon is the consumer-facing weekend event that follows the trade show, BookExpo, in New York City at the Jacob Javits Center.

BookCon is also introducing four writing workshops this year, as well as writing competitions, in an apparent move to broaden their offering to aspiring writers and self-published authors.

And while organizers in the past have spoken of wanting to expand its appeal to a wider age-range of consumer, these first announcements indicate that programming for BookCon 2018 is geared toward a younger audience.

Media materials released today (November 2) name the following personalities as headliners:

Actor and singer Taye Diggs (Rent, Empire)

Shane Evans, who is to release a children’s picture book with Diggs, titled I Love You More

Social media hit Zach King whose MG novel is Zach King: The Magical Mix-Up

Diane Guerrero (Orange is the New Black, Jane the Virgin), discussing My Family Divided, an MG nonfiction work about her experiences as the child of undocumented immigrants

Tickets for BookCon 2018 are to go on sale November 15 at noon ET. Information will be here.

The initial list of appearances for BookCon also includes

Bestselling Author Angie Thomas, whose debut novel The Hate U Give has spent more than 30 weeks on The New York Times’ YA Bestsellers List and will soon be adapted into a feature film starring Amandla Stenberg (Everything, Everything)

Victoria Aveyard on Red Queen novel War Storm

Leigh Bardugo (Six of Crows, The Language of Thorns), promoting her upcoming novel King of Scars

Kami Garci with her new book Broken Beautiful Hearts

Jason Reynolds to discuss Long Way Down

Marissa Meyer, who will be onsite previewing the first book in her superhero series, Renegades

BookCon’s show floor is expected to have more than 250 exhibitors on its show floor, with a Downtown Stage venue for presentations.

In a prepared statement, Brien McDonald—BookCon event director this year after being BookExpo event director last year—is quoted, saying, “We created BookCon as the ultimate storytelling destination with unique and exciting guests and programming for all types of readers…This year we are looking forward to continuing to give fans access to their favorite authors, books, films and television series while further broadening our offerings.”

[delicatelysublimeforester]

National Non-Profit Day August 17, 2017

What becomes possible because of the work of the non-profit organisation ~ the Meewasin Valley Authority (MVA)?

West Swale and Richard St. Barbe Baker AFforestation Area wildlife Urban Forest Semi-Wilderness Area. Mountain Bluebird, White Tailed Deer Fawn. Barred Tiger Salamander or western tiger salamander. American Pelican, Mallard Duckling

Are you aware of the impact that the MVA has on Saskatoon, in Saskatchewan, and worldwide?

We have more possibilities available in each moment than we realize. Thich Nhat Hanh

On Thursday August 17, 2017, pause and take some time to learn more about the MVA. The MVA provides stewardship along the South Saskatchewan River.

“When you open your mind, you open new doors to new possibilities for yourself and new opportunities to help others.” ― Roy T. Bennett

Richard Moriyama, architect and planner, of the 100 Year Conceptual Master Plan of the South Saskatchewan River Environment in the Rural Municipality of Corman Park and the City of Saskatoon, stated that the “first elements of that concept are a unique land and a unique people. The objective is balance. The umbrella idea, the broad concept, is health…the continuing health of the river and all its connected parts  creek, coulee, ravine, slough, aquifer, land and air.”

“We are not interested in the possibilities of defeat. They do not exist.” Queen Victoria

“Meewasin is recognized world-wide for its leadership in conserving the natural resources of the 6,700 hectares of the Meewasin Valley.”source

If you go out and partake of activities at the Beaver Creek Conservation Area, the South Saskatchewan River Meewasin Trail, the Meewasin Northeast Swale, the Saskatoon Natural Grasslands, Cranberry Flats Conservation Area, Wanuskewin Heritage Park, Cameco Meewasin Skating Rink, the Richard St. Barbe Baker Afforestation Area, and the associated afforestation areas in the West Swale, you are appreciating the efforts of the Meewasin Valley Authority.

“It’s not only moving that creates new starting points. Sometimes all it takes is a subtle shift in perspective, an opening of the mind, an intentional pause and reset, or a new route to start to see new options and new possibilities.” Kristin Armstrong

Though times have been hard, and the budget restraints imposed upon the MVA have seen a cutting of programs, it is only the interpretive centre which closed. The MVA staff and directors are still hard at work conserving sensitive environmental sites, preserving water quality in the South Saskatchewan River, linking and balancing human activity, recreation and enjoyment with a healthy eco-system.

“Take your mind off the problems for a moment, and focus on the positive possibilities. Consider how very much you are able to do.” Ralph Marston

If you like what you see, and have enjoyed the breathtaking aesthetics inherent in the river valley, consider making a donation to the Meewasin Valley Authority Richard St. Barbe Baker Afforestation Area Trust Fund (MVA RSBBAA Trust Fund). Your donations will help to protect and monitor the West Swale wetlands affording a safe environment for the endangered Northern Leopard Frog. The West Swale is a unique wetlands system, following the pleistocene Yorath Island Spillway from the North Saskatchewan River valley to the South Saskatchewan River valley confluence. iThe afforestation area provides the growing city of Saskatoon the opportunity to walk in a mixed woodlands featuring deciduous and evergreen trees. Mixed forests are generally found at higher elevations, and in a parkland ecoregion, the afforestation area provides a unique setting. The afforestation area encompasses native prairie wild life, native flowers and a plethora of waterfowl and amphibians. The Saskatoon Nature Society has been actively engaged in ringing and  studying birds in the Richard St. Barbe Baker Afforestation Area, and has included the site in their new book “Nature Viewing Sites in and around Saskatoon“. The West Swale and the associated afforestation areas embrace both multifacted nature viewing opportunities, as well as an amazing geological adventure into time.

“Who you are tomorrow begins with what you do today.”― Tim Fargo

Find out more about the Meewasin Valley Authority. Take some time and explore the “George Genereux” afforestation area, Richard St. Barbe Baker afforestation area, the southwest off leash recreation area, and the woodlands east of the off leash dog park this summer, then you will realize how your donation to the Meewasin Valley Authority Richard St. Barbe Baker Afforestation Area Trust Fund (MVA RSBBAA Trust Fund) can truly make a difference!

“I believed that God has lent us the Earth. It belongs as much to those who come after us as to us, and it ill behooves us by anything we do or neglect, to deprive them of benefits which are in our power to bequeath.” Richard St. Barbe Baker

Yorath Island Channel, Moon Lake Channel, Sutherland Channel and Cory Plain Channel Pleistocene Era South Sk River Valley 2588000 to 117000 years ago Adapted from Larry Edwin Hodges

1924 Rand McNally Map close up of Tsp 36 Rge 6 W3 shewing afforestation areas overlay

Shoreline of the West Swale Wetlands and the Riparian Woodlands Edge at the Richard St. Barbe Baker Afforestation Area, Saskatoon, SK, CA

Rana_pipiens Northern Leopard Frog

For more information:

Richard St. Barbe Baker Afforestation Area is located in Saskatoon, Saskatchewan, Canada north of Cedar Villa Road, within city limits, in the furthest south west area of the city. 52° 06′ 106° 45′ Wikimapia Map: type in Richard St. Barbe Baker Afforestation Area Google Maps South West Off Leash area location pin at parking lot Web page: https://stbarbebaker.wordpress.com Where is the Richard St. Barbe Baker Afforestation Area? with map Facebook: StBarbeBaker Facebook group page : Users of the St Barbe Baker Afforestation Area Facebook: South West OLRA Contact the Meewasin Valley Authority in Saskatoon, Saskatchewan, Canada. The MVA has begun a Richard St. Barbe Baker Afforestation Area trust fund. If you wish to support the afforestation area with your donation, write a cheque to the “Meewasin Valley Authority Richard St. Barbe Baker Afforestation Area trust fund (MVA RSBBAA trust fund)”. Please and thank you! Twitter: StBarbeBaker

An Ent. Treebeard artwork by Ttthom Tom Loback CC b SA3.0 cc by 2.5

Downy Wwoodpecker Ddryobates pubescens

Photo of Richard St. Barbe Baker Courtesy: University of Saskatchewan, University Archives & Special Collections, Richard St. Barbe Baker fonds, MG 71

Yorkshire Terrier

Images of St. Barbe, credit University of Saskatchewan, University Archives & Special Collections, Richard St. Barbe Baker fonds, MG 71

“The science of forestry arose from the recognition of a universal need. It embodies the spirit of service to mankind in attempting to provide a means of supplying forever a necessity of life and, in addition, ministering to man’s aesthetic tastes and recreational interests. Besides, the spiritual side of human nature needs the refreshing inspiration which comes from trees and woodlands. If a nations saves its trees, the trees will save the nation. And nations as well as tribes may be brought together in this great movement, based on the ideal of beautifying the world by the cultivation of one of God’s loveliest creatures – the tree.” ~ Richard St. Barbe Baker.

MVA Leadership Role National Non-Profit Day August 17, 2017 What becomes possible because of the work of the non-profit organisation ~ the Meewasin Valley Authority (MVA)?

[amyriadofbooks]

This is the second year a row that I’ve had the change to attend the North Texas Teen Book Festival in Irving, TX, which is a small suburb of the Dallas/Ft. Worth area. I enjoy the DFW area every time I visit. The past two years I’ve managed to find a hotel mere minutes away from where the convention is actually held, which makes me happy. :)

This year, the festival had over 80 (!!!) MG and YA authors, and I was overjoyed to see that many authors I admired would be there! Another great thing about the festival this year is that they had publishing houses there, so that means Epic Reads, Fierce Reads, and Penguin’s First in Line was also there. It was such a fun experience, and I felt like a true book blogger because I managed to snag some ARCs from the tables. :)

I set out with a set schedule of panels and other events to attend, but that went kind of haywire. Last year, the festival catered to over 6,000 people but this year, they nearly double that number with over 10,000 people! :o I’m so thankful something that huge is just a few hours’ drive away!

First, the festival stared at 8 AM and book sales started then, too! Barnes and Noble was the book partner this year, and they did an amazing thing by having ALL of their stock signed! I bought a few books. It was certainly a madhouse! (But very organized.)

They gave everyone these cute stickers. I wish I had more.

I grabbed signed copies of The Hate U Give by Angie Thomas, an early copy of Nemesis by Brendan Reichs (released on March 21), American Street by Ibi Zoboi, Aristole and Dante Discover the Secrets of the Universe by Benjamin Alire Sáenz, and The Girl from Everywhere by Heidi Heilig. After buying the books, we received a wristband and it was our “ticket” to stand in line for author signings, and helped balance the books we brought from home.

Then at 9 AM, I attended the Fierce Reads breakfast. It was a windy and chilly day but there was coffee, waffles, and delicious pastries. Nina would have totally approved. ;)

While we sipped our coffee and enjoyed the view…

There were also authors there to talk about their books! But I was especially excited for Maurene Goo, as they were giving away copies of her upcoming book I Believe in a Thing Called Love which she signed for me! <3

lol Some of things pics came straight from my IG story. ;)

Then I attended my first panel at 10 AM called “New Kids on the Shelf.” I was very excited to attend this panel. As a budding writer, I thought it would be great to hear from debut authors as they talk about their experience.

From left to right: Samantha Mabry, author of A Fierce and Subtle Poison; Natalie C. Anderson, author of A City of Saints and Thieves; Kate Hart, author of After the Fall, Lilliam River, author of The Education of Margot Sanchez, Angie Thomas, author of The Hate U Give; and Ibi Zoboi, author of American Street.

They each read the first paragraph of their book. They all sound amazing! I’m putting them all on my TBR!

Afterward I stood in line at a booth and received an ARC of Flame in the Mist by Renee Ahdieh! Behold!

While admiring the ARC, I was a little late to the next panel, “Flights of Fantasy” with Victoria Aveyard (Red Queen series), Ryan Graudin (Wolf by Wolf and Blood for Blood), Heidi Heilig (The Girl from Everywhere and The Ship Beyond Time), Claire Legrand (Foxheart), Colleen Oakes (Queen of Hearts saga), and Amy Tintera (Ruined series).

I absolutely love when the audience asks questions, and definitely felt inspired after many of the authors encouraged us to take breaks during the writing process and to do other things we love in order not to get burnt out. Good and sound advice. :)

The last panel I attended was “Do You Ship This Fandom?” I love how we can all fangirl over something. (Very certain the whole audience screamed in delight when the moderator, Sarah Enni, said she was excited for the Ronan trilogy).

When it came time for the audience to ask questions, the ever present, “Are you Team Edward or Team Jacob?” came up and my favorite answer was from Maggie, who is very “Team Volvo.” Indeed.

Afterwards, BFF and I had lunch and then explored the books again. Then we decided to stand in line for author signings two hours early. After the craziness that was the previous year’s festival, I was glad to see organized the signing line was. But that didn’t deter the people at all, lol.

I went to Maggie’s line first. :)

Then OMG, it was time, and OMG, I fangirled. (But not as much as this other girl who was crying afterwards. Her heart was so full, and it made me happy. <3 )

Can I be Maggie when I grow up? She’s one of the nicest people I’ve met. I say that about most authors, because it’s true. They’re all so nice!

Because lines were getting so long, the BFF and I had to split up. She went to Marie Lu’s line and I slid over to Nicola Yoon’s.

I know you’re probably thinking, “Why didn’t you take any pictures with them?” I wanted to, really I did, but due to the amount of people, pictures were incredibly restricted and eventually weren’t allowed at all due to the number of people who wanted their books sighed. I figured I could sacrifice a couple seconds of my time if it meant others could have their books signed. :)

Afterward. BFF and I celebrated with fries and milkshakes. So delicious!

Well, thanks for sticking to the very end! I’m incredibly excited to see what next year will hold for the NTTBF. Just a few days ago, they released the 2018 date which is April 21! I’m already planning. It’s so close to my wedding anniversary, I’m making this a gift to myself! :P

North Texas Teen Book Festival 2017 This is the second year a row that I've had the change to attend the North Texas Teen Book Festival in Irving, TX, which is a small suburb of the Dallas/Ft.

[loveminimag]

MGCC's 22nd Wolds Way Run

This year the MGCC's 22nd Wolds Way Run takes place on Sunday 14th May 2017. This well established event is a full day scenic run of some 90 miles, and this year we anticipate attracting in excess of 100 cars. The run is open to all MG’s, Sports and Classic Cars.   Following the tulip-style route book (which includes information about the area), drive through the beautiful Yorkshire Wolds, starting and finishing in Hull, the 2017 UK City of Culture. For the start, we have prominent and specially reserved parking around the Rose Bowl fountain, Queen's Gardens (in the heart of the city centre next to the BBC Studios); at the finish, by the Victoria Pier in the historic Old Town, overlooking the impressive River Humber. You have the option to dine at the well regarded Cerutti's at the end of the run. The restaurant specialises in seafood (well, we are in Hull!) and is opposite the Victoria Pier, and is opening especially for the entrants on the Wolds Way Run. The club is delighted to again have the support and sponsorship of local MG Dealership Maple Garage who will have several cars entered. Entry fees for the Run are: MGCC members £15; non-members £20. Entry forms are available from http://ift.tt/2mzYAj1 To be recorded in the route book please send your entry by 22nd April. A donation from the proceeds will be made to the Yorkshire Air Ambulance and a raffle will be held in aid of Max Appeal. All MG and all marques of Sports and Classic cars are welcome at events. Please visit websites: MG Car Club Yorkshire Centre for events, entry forms, information etc. http://ift.tt/2mzYAj1 Hull 2017 City of Culture: for details of the year events http://ift.tt/25Dflrc Maple Garage: the local MG Dealership http://ift.tt/2mzWCPN Cerutti's: for details about this exceptional family run restaurant http://ift.tt/2mzWEqT Yorkshire Air Ambulance: http://ift.tt/1ElVL2O Max Appeal: www.maxappeal.org.uk

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