Forbidden Sea

Dream Cast for Forbidden Sea

2012-01-24T18:12:00.000-08:00

I was reading about a book I love that is being made into a movie recently and I found myself wondering which actors I would choose to play the different part if Forbidden Sea was (by some miracle) ever made into a movie. That led me to wonder which actors readers think look most like the characters. So I leave it to you now, who would you choose to star in the imaginary cast of a Forbidden Sea movie? Who would play Adrianne? Denn? Or even Auntie Minnah? (I'm thinking Imelda Staunton)

What do you think? Make sure to leave the actors full names in comments so I can look up what they look like later!

A School Visit I Will Never Forget!

2011-12-02T13:30:00.001-08:00

I visited Syracuse Art Academy on Tuesday morning. I spoke to a group of over 300 students. (7th-9th grade) There were a lot of writers and illustrators in the audience so it was extra fun to talk to them about how to create a story and get it published! One girl, named Rebecca Stephen, even made a poster (pictured above) of Jendayi to advertise for the event. Isn't it beautiful? : ) I especially like all the lovely detail she put into the tiara! Click on the picture if you'd like to see it in even more up close and personal. Thanks Rebecca (and to all the Syracuse Art Academy students) who made my visit one I will never forget!

A Brand New Look

2011-11-24T15:47:00.001-08:00

I thought it was time for a change of scene for this blog. I got tired of the same old look and decided to redecorate and shake things up over Thanksgiving weekend. I might tweak it a bit more after living with it for a while--we'll see . . .

Contest! With LOTS of Prizes!

2011-11-06T13:49:00.000-08:00

Contest Now Closed

A friend of mine is currently hosting a fun contest to celebrate the release of the next Twilight film. I am one of the sponsors providing a prize to be given away between November 7th-18th.

I will be giving away a signed hardback copy of Forbidden Sea like the one pictured above.

There will be lots of other prizes available as well--so if you like the Twilight books (or just prizes in general) here's how to get entered in order to win!

Answer this Trivia Question:

What is the name of the mermaid that Adrianne meets in Forbidden Sea?

Email the answer to this question to bellasshower@gmail.com. Put my name, Sheila Nielson, in the Subject line of the email and include your mailing address, in case you win. Deadline: midnight, November 19, 2011.
Don't give away the answer to the question by posting it in comments. Send it via email to bellasshower@gmail.com. All emails with the correct answer will be automatically entered to win my book and the Grand Prize.

Click the link below for even more contest details as well as to find out what other prizes will be given away:

http://www.inksplasher.blogspot.com/

The answer to the question and the name of the winner will be posted on the Inksplasher blog on November 21st. The winner must have a shipping address within the U.S. Prizes will be shipped at the end of the contest.

Good luck to you all!

And Even MORE Book Reviews . . .

2011-11-06T13:23:00.000-08:00

Forbidden Sea got another great book review! This one is from Jennifer over at Simply Stacie. Here is the link:

http://www.simplystacie.net/2011/11/book-review-forbidden-sea/

Thanks so much for your kind words, Jennifer. So glad you liked it!

Top Ten Trends in Teen Fiction

2011-09-27T07:45:00.000-07:00

The Teen Librarian's Toolbox Blog has posted a fascinating look at the top ten current trends in teen fiction. Mermaids is listed as number six. Forbidden Sea is listed as one of the recommended titles! Woohoo! Check it out by clicking the link here.

Forbidden Sea Book Trailer

2011-09-26T05:05:00.000-07:00

This week we have begun preproduction on the Forbidden Sea book trailer. I had no idea how much work goes into making one of these things! You'd think we were actually making a movie instead of just a trailer for the book itself. I've been madly gathering costumes for the cast. When you have as small a budget as I do--you have to get a little creative at times. For example: the girl who is playing Adrianne is perfect for the part, but doesn't want to cut her hair. (Not that I blame her, she's doing this for free as a favor to me.) So we have to figure out a way around it. In a trailer, sometimes faithfulness to the book takes back seat to what looks absolutely fantastic on the screen. And the mermaid! She's the hardest part of all. But it has been a lot of fun and everyone involved is excited about how it's all shaping up. I can't wait to get started filming!

So You Want to be a Mermaid

2011-09-02T16:21:00.000-07:00

Ever wanted to be a real live mermaid? Look no further. Below are links to places you can buy real mermaid tails--for a huge price of course. Even so--I totally covet some of these tails. Especially the ones you can actually swim in! Check it out by clicking the links below.

https://themertailor.com/boutique/index.php?route=product/category&path=59

http://www.mermagica.com/store/

http://www.emilyangelfish.com/Mermaid_Tails.html

http://www.thepiratetradingco.com/mermaidswimtails.htm

The Best Books EVER!

2011-08-18T06:26:00.000-07:00

Okay, all you readers out there. Today I want to know which book you have read and re-read the very most in your lifetime? Which book do you find yourself returning to when you have a few moments to spare--or better yet--when you don't have time, but you read it anyway? Which books do you mark your favorite passages in? Which novel do you have memorized so well, you know exactly which page to turn to so you can read a favorite part again and again? I think the story I've re-read the most is the Emily of New Moon Series. I loved that series as a child. Much more than I loved Anne of Green Gables by the same author. I liked Anne a lot, but I loved Emily more. A close second would probably be Beauty by Robin McKinley.

What about you? Which are your most re-read books?

Book Review!

2011-08-15T12:54:00.000-07:00

Another great book review, this time by The Lost Entwife. (Who else just loves this delightfully whimsical name?) Every once in a while an author will find a reviewer that completely understands what it is what they were trying to communicate when writing their book. A real kindred spirit. Thanks for taking the time to write about Forbidden Sea, Lost Entwife. You actually brought tears to my eyes as I read it! Click here to read the full review.

FREE Autographed Copy of Forbidden Sea Giveaway--Don't Miss Out!

2011-07-31T18:27:00.000-07:00

She Known As Jess has posted an author interview with me on her blog! Not only is her blog completely awesome in every way, but the questions she asked me about Forbidden Sea were quite thought provoking and I enjoyed answering them a great deal. I have also donated a signed copy of Forbidden Sea for a giveaway hosted by her blog. If you are interested in learning more about the free book giveaway or in reading the interview--click here.

Interview with Adrianne Keynnman!!!

2011-07-24T18:07:00.000-07:00

SPOILER WARNING: The interview below gives away many important plot points (and even the ending) of Forbidden Sea, the novel. Do not read the interview that follows unless you have read the book. You have been fairly warned.

Seriously . . .

I mean it . . .

Are you still here? Okay then.

Author's Note: I recently wrote a letter to Adrianne Keynnman and asked her if she would be willing to answer a few questions for me and her fans. She was amazed to learn how many people had read her story and become interested in what happened to her after her experience with the merfolk. Adrianne was a little reluctant at first but eventually I persuaded her to do the interview. I sent the questions to her in a letter and she wrote back her answers. I’m posting those answers here for everyone to see.

Why didn’t Denn know you were the right girl for him from the start?

Because like all the boys on Windwaithe Island, Denn, can sometimes be a complete and utter idiot from time to time. I say that with only the greatest of respect for my dear friend, I assure you.

Did you and Denn fall in love after you returned to Windwaithe Island?

What kind of hair-brained question is that to ask a person you’ve only just met? My feelings for Denn are my own business and nobody else’s! For your information, Miss Nielson, Denn was nosing about my personal things the other day and almost discovered your most impertinent question. I had to wrestle your letter away from him and tear it to pieces before he had the chance to see. If Denn were to get wind of such nonsense I’d never hear the end of it! So, no more silly questions about my private feelings for a certain dashingly handsome young man with red hair and freckles, if you please.

(I really hope Denn doesn't see that last part before I have a chance to send this letter off to you. I’ll hold you personally responsible, Miss Nielson, if he does.)

What happened to Auntie Minnah after you went back to Windwaithe?

Not long after my return Auntie Minnah packed up all her things and left us to go live with her friend, Laura Mills. While I must admit I like not having to deal with her griping every day—I do regret having her leave before I had a chance to try and repair our relationship in some small way first.

What happened between Cora Lynn and Denn after you returned to the island of Windwaithe?

Once Cora Lynn realized that Denn was not going to come around and make up his argument with her, she changed her tune and started hounding him. She flirts shamelessly with him at every opportunity, trying to regain his interest. He tries to avoid her whenever possible and will often hide if he sees her coming. Denn frequently stops over to visit my family’s cottage at odd hours during the day in order to escape from Cora Lynn’s clutches. She refuses to come anywhere near me or my family (especially in pursuit of Denn) which is just fine by me.

“I’m going to pay for my mistake with Cora Lynn for the rest of my life, aren’t I?” Denn once moaned to me after ducking out on the poor girl for the third time in one day.

“Very likely,” I said with an unsympathetic grin.

He has no one but himself to blame for it.

Is there going to be a movie made of Forbidden Sea?

Miss Nielson has tried to explain to me what exactly a movie is—and failed miserably in the attempt. She said it is something that hasn’t been invented in my time, thank heaven for small favors. I got a headache just trying to imagine how such a thing would work. It sounds like something mermaids might conjure up with their magic. I’ve given up trying to understand THEM, so I think I’ll pass on this question and try answering the next one.

Did you ever tell your mother and Cecily about your trip to the Mercity after you returned home?

Mama would have worried herself sick if she had ever found out the truth so I never told her about what happened to me the night I left Windwaithe. I was able to sneak back into the house without getting caught the next morning. Mama never suspected a thing about what I’d been up to. As for Cecily—I didn’t tell her what happened at first. For a long time she suspected I was hiding something from her and Mama but didn’t press me about it. One day Cecily accidentally discovered where I’d hidden the blue dress the mermaids gave me and demanded the full story from me right there and then. I told her everything and she promised never to say a word to anyone about it. My sister has faithfully kept that promise.

Do you get to see Dartemore anymore?

Since I’m the only one that can safely ride Dartemore, he has become my number one responsibility while working up at the manor stables. It is my job to exercise him every day. Denn comes along to help me sometimes. We take the horses out for long rides together. Denn is determined to ride Dartemore someday. Personally, I think he has a better chance of getting his thick skull cracked open than he does of ever convincing that horse to let him ride on his back.

Do you regret not meeting the Sea Prince?

I’ve thought about this question quite a lot since coming back from the mercity. Jendayi told me the Sea Prince would eventually fall in love with me but she never said I would fall in love with him—probably for good reason. It would have been nice at first, having my every want and wish fulfilled, but eventually I think it would have driven me mad with boredom. I would have missed my family and (truth be told) Denn something fierce. I don’t think even the devastatingly handsome Sea Prince himself could have made up for the emptiness that would have been left inside me by the absence of those most dear to me.

No, I do not regret my choice and I’m pretty certain I never will.

Did Jendayi ever come back?

Jendayi said I would never see her again—and she is rarely wrong. However, Miss Nielson says that the day might come when Jendayi will once again be an important influence in my life. Sometimes I wonder if Miss Nielson might have a touch of mermaid foresight herself. I guess we will have to see.

Author’s note: Just for the record, I think Adrianne has answered our second question without meaning to. If you will reread her answers you will see that she and Denn seem to be spending an awful lot of time together these days—don’t you think? : )

Forbidden Sea Book Giveaway

2011-07-18T13:53:00.000-07:00

For those who would love a chance to own an autographed copy of Forbidden Sea, here is your big chance! Amber Argyle, author of the upcoming young adult novel, Witch Song, is currently having a contest giveaway with a signed copy of Forbidden Sea as the prize. Click here for more details on how you could win.

Interview with Adrianne Keynnman--Coming Soon!

2011-07-17T08:23:00.000-07:00

Over the past year, I have received many emails and letters from fans asking questions about Forbidden Sea and what happened to Adrianne and her friends after the story ended. Many of these questions will be answered in the sequel, of course, but some of them were questions I wanted to know the answer for myself. So--I recently wrote a letter to Miss Adrianne Keynnman of Windwaithe Island, and (I am excited to say) she has graciously agreed to answer a few select questions for us in a personal interview.

I will be posting Adrianne's answers to my questions right here on this blog. Check back soon to get the latest on what Adrianne has to say about her experiences in Forbidden Sea--and beyond!

Exciting News for Utah Residents!

2011-07-10T13:16:00.000-07:00

For those of you living in Utah--I will be doing a Forbidden Sea book signing at the Layton Barnes and Noble this coming Wednesday on the 13th, at 6:00 pm. Not only will I be there to sign copies of my books, but so will two other fabulous lady authors from Utah. Kristen Landon, author of The Limit and Wendy Toliver, author of Lifted. I've met these wonderful women before and they are lots of fun to hang with. If you happen to be in the area, stop by and say hello to all three of us. We would love to answer any and all questions you might have--about our books or about the publishing world. It will be like a regular author party, with something for everyone. Copies of all of our books will be available for purchase. Here's a link to more info and an address for those who are interested in knowing more.

http://store-locator.barnesandnoble.com/event/3104033

Hope to see you all there!

What are YOU Reading?

2011-06-12T12:47:00.000-07:00

Okay, just for the fun of it I want to know what everyone out there in cyberspace is currently reading right now. I also want to know if it that book is good so far--or not so much. I just finished The Midnight Tunnel: A Suzanna Snow Mystery by Angie Frazier. It was a fun, light read--just what I was in the mood for. I loved the characters and am now excited to read the sequel when it comes out. Now it's your turn. What are YOU reading?

There Are Not Words to Describe . . .

2011-06-05T12:24:00.000-07:00

. . .what an amazingly talented friend I have working with me at the library. One of my co-workers made--by hand, mind you--a netted-beadwork collar necklace that looks just like the one Jendayi wears in my book. I and a few of my family members are currently working on trying to possibly make a book trailer for Forbidden Sea and we needed a necklace like this one for some of the footage we want to film. If you would like to see this amazing work of art click here to see a photo of it.

There are not words to describe my appreciation and gratitude. That must have taken her hours and HOURS to make by hand. Just beautiful.

Forbidden Sea Review

2011-06-02T10:21:00.000-07:00

A fantastic review has been posted by She Known as Jess. (Love the name!) I'm always so tickled when I hear people say they wanted there to be more of the story or that it ended too quickly. It means they loved the story enough that they didn't want it to end. I especially get excited when people say they wanted to learn more about the younger Sea Prince. He is indeed a very fascinating character--one we will learn much more about in the sequel if it gets published. Trust me--you are going to love him!

Click here to read Jess' review of Forbidden Sea.

Jess also wrote an amazing poem inspired by Forbidden Sea. Click here to read it!

I'm Not One of Those Fanatic Pet Owners--Okay, Maybe I Am

2011-06-02T09:48:00.000-07:00

Isn't she ADORABLE?

Bobbie Pyron, author of A Dog's Way Home, has posted a blog spotlight about me and my dog over at her blog. Click here to read more about it. Bobbie is a fellow Utahan as well as a great author. You'll have to check out her blog for some of the past spotlights she has done with other authors and their fantastic pets. Thanks Bobbie, for letting me and my puppy dog join in the fun. The parrot is completely jealous. : )

Mermaids are Back in Fashion

2011-05-24T09:08:00.000-07:00

According to USA Today, mermaids are the new popular paranormal topic. Even Stephanie Meyer is getting into the act by writing a new mermaid novel. I personally am only too happy to hear it. As far as I am concerned there can never be too many mermaid novels. : ) I hope this bodes well for Forbidden Sea's sequel which is currently under consideration. Fingers crossed.

For those who can't get enough of mermaid stories I'm posting a link here to the list of mermaid books I collected a while back. If you know of any that are not included on the list, feel free to add the titles in comments. Happy reading!

Children's Book Festival!

2011-05-05T09:57:00.000-07:00

For any of you who happen to be hanging out in the Utah County area this next weekend, I'm going to be doing a Forbidden Sea book signing at Provo City Library on Saturday, May 7th from 12:00 to 1:00 a.m. in the ballroom on the third floor. I'm one of the authors taking part in the Children's Book Festival that will be going on that day. From 2:00 to 4:00 p.m. I'll be stationed at the Caldecott Table helping out as well. There will be all kinds of fun activities for kids of all ages to participate in. Everything is free so come on by and join in the fun! And if you do, make sure to stop by my table and say hello. : )

Forbidden Sea on Twitter!

2011-04-26T09:04:00.000-07:00

I now have a Twitter account! Check out the link below:

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

Become a follower and be the first to learn any new updates about Forbidden Sea and other future books I'm working on.

Deseret News Book Review

2011-04-23T16:38:00.000-07:00

Forbidden Sea has received yet another great review--this time from the Deseret News! Check it out at the link below.

http://www.deseretnews.com/article/705371257/Book-review-Forbidden-Sea-is-an-exciting-read.html

Forbidden Sea Book Report!

2011-04-23T08:57:00.001-07:00

What amazingly creative ideas young readers come up with!

Recently, an extremely talented ten-year-old named Kess decided to read Forbidden Sea for her book report at school. She had to create a diorama to go along with the report, depicting a scene from the story. Kess was nice enough to send me some photos of the finished piece. As you can see, she chose to recreate the part in the story where Jendayi tries to grab Adrianne's wrist and pull her into the ocean in the first chapter. What an attention to detail, Kess. The Rumble Stones are right there behind them. Jendayi is also wearing her golden crown. I LOVE it!

If you have read Forbidden Sea and it has inspired you to be creative--just like Kess--send me a photo of your project and I'll a post a copy of it here on my blog for everyone to see!

Great job, Kess! Thanks for sharing!

Real Mermaids--Or the Next Closest Thing

2011-03-01T18:48:00.000-08:00

I stumbled onto this video about a woman who is probably the closest thing to a real mermaid there will ever be. I wish I could hold my breath like that! Watch the video and be amazed--but don't try this at home.

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=7KV_jRjkAVo

What Do Readers Want?

2011-02-25T05:23:00.001-08:00

I presented at a science-fiction and fantasy writer's conference last weekend. I had such a great experience talking to all the up and coming authors. One of the presentations I gave covered some of the subjects in fiction that I see more of a need for. I wrote Forbidden Sea about a mermaid because several years ago there were very few mermaid books and lots of little girls asking for them at their local library. Since most of you who follow this blog are avid readers--I thought I would extend these questions to you.

What kinds of middle grade and young adult books do you wish there were more of? (example: mysteries, adventure stories, contemporary fiction, historical, etc.)

Are there any certain subjects (example: unicorns, giant evil robots, superheroes, pigs with wings, etc.) that you wish more children's authors would write books about?

This is your chance to speak to the authors of the world. What would you like to see more of? If you leave suggestions in comments, I might just pass them along in my next presentation to authors. Feel free to leave as many suggestions as you want!

Forbidden Sea Discussion Guide for Book Clubs

2011-01-28T10:02:00.000-08:00

One of the things I have enjoyed most about being an author is that I am often invited to speak at local book groups. Book clubs are the best! I love to hear the discussions readers have after reading my book and see what insights they gain from Adrianne's story. Forbidden Sea is definitely the kind of book that sparks interesting, in-depth discussions. I even tried out the first chapter of Forbidden Sea's sequel on the last group I visited with. They loved it!

I was recently asked to create a discussion guide for one group I visited with. I thought it might be fun to share the questions I came up with here on my blog, just in case anyone out there in cyberspace decides to use Forbidden Sea for their own local book club. I'm including the questions below. Feel free to copy or modify these for use in your particular group or come up with some new ones of your own.

*SPOILER WARNING* This discussion guide is intended for those who have already read Forbidden Sea in its entirety.

1) Auntie Minnah hated Adrianne because she reminded her so much of herself when she was young. Why do you think that is? Why would Auntie Minnah favor Cecily who was nothing like her?

2) Denn thought he was in love with Cora Lynn because she was so pretty and flirtatious. But when Cora Lynn got angry with Adrianne for calling her a monster, he takes Adrianne’s side of the argument. What does this say about his relationship with Cora Lynn versus his relationship with Adrianne? Why would he choose Adrianne’s side even though he thought he loved Cora Lynn?

3) Adrianne could not bring herself to look Cora Lynn in the eye in the beginning of the story—but when she finds out Cora Lynn is happy that she caused the poor tide drifter woman and her sick children to be kicked off the island, Adrianne doesn’t have this problem anymore. Why not?

4) When Adrianne doesn’t want to stay in the merworld, Jendayi grows angry and refuses to let her go back to the surface. Why does the mermaid feel she is justified in doing this even though she had already made it clear that she felt Lady Lauretta’s father had no right to do something like that to his own daughter a hundred years before?

5) Adrianne thinks she is ugly through most of the story, but the reader can see she is not as bad looking as she believes. What are some clues that Adrianne might not see herself clearly? Why is she convinced she is so ugly? What is it that makes people cling to mistaken thinking? What does it take to convince them they might be wrong?

6) Why did Adrianne choose to return to her difficult life on the surface rather than stay and marry the Sea Prince? Was this the best choice? Would you have stayed or gone back? Why?

If your book group comes up with any extra good questions, feel free to share them in comments below so others can use them in future discussions!

Busy, Busy, Busy

2011-01-11T07:40:00.000-08:00

You can always tell when I've been working like crazy because this blog doesn't get updated much when I am. I've just signed on with a new literary agent (which is very exciting) but it also means I now have to work on my writing more than ever. I've turned in my most recent manuscript to her and am now waiting to hear back on what needs reworking. In the meantime, I'm trying to finish the first draft of my next novel so it is ready to go to her when we finish working on the one she has in hand. A writer's work is never done. *sigh*

Then again, a writer's work is never dull either. : )

Amazingly Talented Young Fans

2010-12-23T18:28:00.000-08:00

I received the most wonderful Christmas gift from a young fan named Anastasia who read and loved Forbidden Sea this year. Pictured above is the front and back view of a necklace she made for me. Isn't it stunning? Now I can carry Adrianne with me everywhere I go. Thank you so much, Anastasia, for such a beautiful and rare gift!

S0 many of Forbidden Sea's young readers are overflowing with talent. Another gift I received this year was a book of poems written by the Pickwick Society, a group of talented young writers ages 7 to 12. They read Forbidden Sea together and then decided to each write a poem about it. Afterward they presented me with a beautifully finished scrapbook of their work. I've scanned each poem and included them here so the rest of you can read and enjoy them as well.

*SPOILER WARNING* The poems are about the Forbidden Sea and sometimes give away small parts of the plot. Read at you own risk. : )

Thanks for all your hard work, Pickwick Society. I will never forget you!

And if there are any other young fans out there who have been inspired by Forbidden Sea--send me a scan of your fan art or pictures of your unique creations and I'll post some of them on this blog for everyone to enjoy.

Storybook Nook Book Signing

2010-12-11T15:47:00.001-08:00

I had so much fun at my book signing today! The Storybook Nook is a darling little independent bookstore full of fun books and toys. I was introduced to screaming flying monkey toys and let me tell you--I so want one for Christmas now. I also got to meet lots of readers and book lovers while I was there. One teenage girl had not only read Forbidden Sea and loved it, but she had created the most beautiful necklace featuring Adrianne, the main character. She offered to make one for me. If she does I'll post a picture of it on this blog. It was just amazing. The Storybook Nook had only one copy of Forbidden Sea left by the end. I'd say the event was a huge success. A big thank you to all of you who came out to meet me today.

Forbidden Sea Book Signing

2010-12-03T11:19:00.001-08:00

For those who might be interested, I will be visiting the Storybook Nook at Gardener Village to have a book signing on December 11th. I will be there 1:00pm - 3:00pm. Those who visit with me can get their name in a drawing to win a one-of-a-kind handmade miniature mermaid necklace. I will also be handing out adorable sea creature shaped lollipops to anyone brave enough to come up and talk to me while I'm out there. Books will be available for purchase, but even if you don't buy the book, come on by and just say hello.

The Storybook Nook's address is:

100 W. 7800 S.
Jordan, UT 84088

Hope to see you all there.

This is for All You Scott Westerfeld Fans!

2010-11-19T09:00:00.001-08:00

I was invited as an author to attend the Teen Book Fest for Provo City Library this year. The keynote speaker was Scott Westerfeld.

(Can I just say here how much I LOVED his Leviathan series!)

His speech was not just informative but it was hilarious as well. For those of you who love Scott Westerfeld and his books as much as I do, click the link below to see a video of his keynote speech that day. The introduction at the beginning has her introducing the other authors at the event. Listen carefully and you will hear my name called out!

http://provout.swagit.com/play/11182010-90/0/

Dixon Middle School Visit

2010-11-07T08:40:00.000-08:00

I was invited to attend a Fall Reading Festival at a local middle school on Wednesday. Three other authors besides myself were invited to participate and I must say, it was SO much fun!

We started off the day with two school assemblies. The students had written down some questions and we authors had to give our answers before an auditorium that was filled with students. We then were invited to eat lunch with a select group of students, all of whom were interested in becoming writers themselves someday. Cafe Rio was served--yummy! Each table was dedicated to the author who was eating there and was decorated accordingly.

The mermaid table was for Forbidden Sea.

The tennis shoe and money table was for Kristen Landon, author of The Limit.

The wolf table was for Kristen Chandler, author of Wolves, Boys, and Other Things that Might Kill Me.

The dragon table was for Clint Johnson, author of the Dragon Codex series.

After lunch we broke out into four smaller groups and discussed with the kids our writing process and how you go about getting published. The kids were then allowed to ask us authors questions one on one. The picture below is of one of these sessions.

Below is a picture of the lovely lady, Leann Moody, who put this whole event together and three of the authors who attended this year. (left to right: Kristen Chandler, Kristen Landon, Leann Moody, and Sheila Nielson.)

Just in case you were wondering why our fourth author is not in the picture, Clint Johnson doesn't like to have his photograph taken. Photographs of him are rare. The kids were starting to speculate that maybe he was a vampire and he just doesn't show up in photographs if they are taken of him. : )

This is a picture of one of the two assemblies. The auditorium was packed!

Teen Book Fest 2010

2010-10-31T05:57:00.000-07:00

Yesterday my library put on its first annual Teen Book Festival. Scott Westerfeld was the keynote speaker. If you haven't heard Mr. Westerfeld speak in public before--he is a RIOT! I especially loved hearing about how he came up with the idea for writing his Levianthan trilogy (which I love) and how he and the artist, Keith Thompson worked together to create such an interesting world. There were many local authors invited to speak and do book signings as well. I was one of them. Some of the other authors that came to present were: Ally Condie, Brandon Sanderson, Carol Lynch Williams, Brandon Mull (who I sat next to during Mr. Westerfeld's speech), Sara Zarr, Jessica Day George, Bree Despain, Kristin Chandler, and many more than I could possibly list here. Hundreds and hundreds of teens and their parents came to the Teen Book Fest. You should have seen some of the lines for the author book signings. Scott Westerfeld's line went on forever. The building was so packed you could barely get around from place to place. My favorite part of the evening was getting to talk to the teens in the question and answer sessions. My favorite question was "Don't you get rich when you get a book published?" I quickly explained that unless you are J. K. Rowling or Stephanie Meyer--most authors definitely have to keep their day job. They seemed a little disappointed by my answer. : ) Because it was the day before Halloween, all the kids and authors came dressed in costumes so they could take part in the costume contest and win some prizes. I was a steampunk Victorian lady in honor of Scott Westerfeld's visit. (See picture above) The whole event was such a success I think the library will be putting on another one next year.

Hope I'm invited again!

Cybil Awards Nomination for Forbidden Sea!

2010-10-05T18:15:00.001-07:00

Forbidden Sea has been nominated for the Cybil awards! This is an award given out each year by book bloggers for the best books of the year. Click the link below to see all the nominations for this year. A special thank you to Rebecca since she was the blogger who liked my book enough to nominate it. I don't know Rebecca personally, but I do know her fantastic blog--check it out by clicking here.

Here is the list of Cybils where you will find Forbidden Sea:
http://www.cybils.com/2010/10/nominations-reminders-of-critical-importance.html

A lot of those titles I haven't read yet. Guess I'd better get cracking.

New Update! Forbidden Sea Deleted Scenes and Changes

2010-10-03T16:47:00.000-07:00

Now that many of you out there have actually read Forbidden Sea, I thought it might be fun to post a few behind the scenes facts and deleted scenes that were changed or taken out of the book during the revisions process.

*Spoiler Warning* Do not click the links below unless you have read the book!

Click here to learn more about changes that were made to Forbidden Sea during the revisions process.

Click here to read deleted scene Part I.

Click here to read deleted scene Part II

Click here to read deleted scene Part III

Click here to read deleted scene Part IV

Click here to read deleted scene Part V

Keep your eye on this post--I will be adding more links to deleted scenes from Forbidden Sea as the weeks pass.

Fantastic Book Review Guest Post

2010-09-26T19:24:00.000-07:00

I was invited to do a guest post for Tina over at the Fantastic Book Review. For those who haven't had a chance to check out Tina's fabulous blog click the link below and take a peek. I was asked to write about why we find mermaids so fascinating.

http://www.fantasticbookreview.com/2010/09/guest-post-sheila-nielson-author-of.html

Daily Herald News Article

2010-09-12T04:52:00.000-07:00

Just taking a quick moment away from my exciting vacation to post this news article about Forbidden Sea that was run today in the Daily Herald. Click here to read the article. I'll write more when I return from London!

Taking a Much Deserved Vacation

2010-09-07T05:25:00.000-07:00

I'm off to London for the next few weeks! I can't tell you how much I am looking forward to this trip. Things have been pretty crazy for the last couple months as I've been working like crazy to promote Forbidden Sea. It has been a long time since I've taken a REAL vacation where I can just enjoy myself. Unfortunately, I will have only limited access to the Internet while out of the country and I will not be able to update this blog or answer my emails regularly until I return. So if I'm slow to answer you in the next few weeks, please be patient. I'll catch up when I get back.

Wish me luck!

School Library Journal Review!

2010-09-01T14:29:00.001-07:00

I just got my first peek at School Library Journal's review of Forbidden Sea in their September issue. They loved it! School Library Journal is one of the biggest tools youth services librarians use when purchasing materials for their libraries. It means a lot to an author to get a good review in their magazine. I've read SLJ's reviews for years as a librarian myself, but I never imagined that one day MY book would receive such a great review there! Click here if you'd like to read the review for yourself. There are quite a few reviews so you'll have to scroll down the page a bit to the find the Forbidden Sea review. The list is in alphabetical order by last name of the author. Look under "Nielson" to find it.

Book Signing At Mockingjay Midnight Release

2010-08-21T17:10:00.000-07:00

I will be one of several authors who will be hanging out and signing copies of their books at the Borders Store in Riverwoods mall in Provo this Monday, August the 23rd. Borders is going to have a midnight release of Mockingjay for all those who are dying to get their hands on a copy of Suzanne Collins third novel in the Hunger Games series. So if your going to be out that way, come on in and stop by my table to say hello. I'll be there from 9:00pm to midnight.

See you there!

The Mysterious Blog

2010-08-17T12:13:00.000-07:00

Someone else found the Mysterious Blog today. What is the Mysterious Blog, you ask? Don't you wish you knew? It's not hard to find if you know where to look.

Good luck!

Mother Daughter Book Club

2010-08-14T09:36:00.001-07:00

I was invited to come as a guest speaker to a local mother daughter book club last week. They chose Forbidden Sea to be their book this month. It was one of the loveliest experiences of my life. When I came into the hostess’ house, her daughter was in the living room playing Under the Sea from the little mermaid on her very own harp. It was beautiful! What a talented young lady. My favorite part of the evening was when the moms and their daughters went around and told me their favorite part of the story. This was my first chance to really talk to actual readers in my target audience and find out what they felt as they read my book. The girls were adorable and the mom’s were amazing. I got much more out of the experience than they did, I’m sure. What an honor.

Interview Over at 21 Pages

2010-07-29T18:45:00.000-07:00

I was asked to do an interview over on the 21 Pages YA Review Blog. They have a Beach Read Summer Reading Challenge going on over there that sounds like a lot of fun. It will continue until August 30th, so it isn't too late to start if you'd like to join in. If you would like to read my interview click here to check it out.

Thanks for letting me be a part of your challenge, Ladies! Love the blog, by the way, and those fabulous questions were lots of fun to answer. You made me miss Califorina and the beaches of my youth. Now I'm going to have to read a beach read to make myself feel better. : )

Reviews Abound

2010-07-20T16:28:00.000-07:00

Rebecca's over at Rebecca's Book Blog has posted her review of Forbidden Sea. Click here to read it. Rebecca is the first blogger to contact me about Forbidden Sea. Its publication hadn't even been officially announced when she emailed me to find out more about the book. Talk about doing your homework. If you have never visited Rebecca's Book Blog before, you should head over and take a peek right away. This is one woman who is on top of all the newest titles as well as a few hidden gems you might have missed. Thanks for the great review, Rebecca. So glad you liked Forbidden Sea. If they ever decided to publish the sequel, you'll be one of the first ones I send out an ARC to!

Rock Canyon Writing for Charity Event in Utah

2010-07-19T14:03:00.000-07:00

If you live in Utah and love to write children's books, this post is for you.

Every year all the children's authors and illustrators who call Utah home get together and put on a charity event. This is my first year participating! The event is being held at the Waterford School in Sandy on August 21st. There will be LOTS of authors and illustrators there to present workshops, speak on panels and answer all your questions, as well as critique your manuscripts. Lunch is included in the price of registration. All proceeds from registration costs go toward buying books for underprivileged children.

If you are a children's writer or illustrator, do not miss this unforgettable event! Click the button located in the right column of this page to find out more.

This is One for All You Teachers Out There

2010-07-16T11:46:00.000-07:00

A friend (who is a teacher back in my old neighborhood in San Jose) recently wrote to me, asking if I remembered any of my elementary school teachers encouraging me in my drawing and writing when I was young. The answer to this question is most certainly a yes. In fact, I still remember that one special teacher's name.

Mrs. Corbett, my first grade teacher, was more than just a teacher, she was my friend and champion. This woman had the patience of a saint. I was not an easy child for a teacher to have in her class. I couldn't sit still two seconds together, I couldn't stop talking, and half of the time my mind was off wandering through the many worlds of my own creating. Getting me to focus was like like trying to hold down a bank of fog. As for getting me to remember to bring back my homework from the day before--forget it. And when I did manage to finish a paper, it was usually covered with so many doodles and sketches it couldn't be read without great difficulty.

Mrs. Corbett not only liked me, she liked having me in her class. This angelic woman actually arranged for me to be put into her class for second grade the following year. And when I moved on to third grade she sat my new teacher down ahead of time and explained to them how to get the best performance out of me. She told them that if they were patient with me I would work my heart out for them in time.

And she was right.

Mrs. Corbett took the time to get to know me. She would ask to see my drawings, even when she'd just caught me doodling one in class when I should have been studying. Instead of getting mad, she would hold the picture in her hands, looking down at it as if it were a fantastic treasure. She'd put up my work and praise it in front of others. She would listen to my stories and ask me questions about them, sincerely interested. She never tired of my childish rambling. She made me feel like my creative side was something wonderful and special--not something that was useless and annoying. She used to tell me that someday I would do amazing things with my talents.

I wish with all my heart that could meet Mrs. Corbett again now that I am grown. I wish I could hug her tight and thank her, with tears in my eyes, for all she did for me. For making me believe I could do anything if I put my mind to it. She will probably never know how much of an influence she made on one small doodler in the back of the room. Or that this doodler now has a book published which is dedicated to all those who encouraged this author in her starry-eyed dreams. Mrs. Corbett, wherever you are, you are definitely one of those most important people.

Forbidden Sea is lovingly dedicated to you.

A Couple Wild Weeks!

2010-07-13T06:38:00.000-07:00

Wow! What a couple of amazing weeks this has been. I've been doing a flurry of promotional visits and book signings around Utah and it has been so much fun. The pictures above were taken at my very first book launch at the King's English Bookshop. They had starfish cookies with teal green icing. Too bad I didn't have a chance to taste one. I was too busy signing and they went real fast. Last night I had another book event at the Provo City Library. I loved meeting all the wonderful people who came to support me. The seats were full to capacity and some people even stood up in the back to listen. I loved sharing Forbidden Sea and talking about how it was created. Afterward I got to sign books and talk to each visitor first hand. To me that was the best part of the whole evening. They sold out of copies of Forbidden Sea there were so many people there. The Mayor of Provo came. He even bought a copy of my book! Talk about an honor!

And it's not over yet. I've got more events scheduled for this month and I can't wait.

Today is Forbidden Sea's official Book Launch!

2010-07-10T06:41:00.000-07:00

For all those who live in Utah, today King's English Bookshop is holding a book launch to celebrate Forbidden Sea's release. I will be doing a reading from Forbidden Sea, answering questions, and signing books for all those who are interested in attending. The launch starts at 2:00 pm. Click here for more info and a map of how to get to the bookshop. See you there!

Samples of the Forbidden Sea Soundtrack

2010-07-01T20:47:00.000-07:00

This post is especially for Alex over at Tales of a Teenage Book Lover who wanted me to put together a list of some of the songs I listened to while writing Forbidden Sea in order to create the right mood for the story.

SPOILER WARNING: There are some spoilers involved with the explanation of each song so just click the links and listen to the music by itself if you have not yet read the book.

A lot of the songs I listened to while writing Forbidden Sea came from the movie, The Time Machine. (Hated the movie, but LOVED the soundtrack.) Here are just a couple examples:

Eloi from The Time Machine soundtrack was the song I played as I wrote about Adrianne seeing the mercity for the first time. I felt it caught the magic and wonder of a new and alien world.

Click here to listen.

Godspeed from Time Machine soundtrack was the song I would often listened to while writing about Adrianne herself. I felt it captured the sweet sadness of her life and the hidden strength inside her.

Click here to listen.

I felt Reflections by Tim Janis spoke of Windwaithe's Island's endless ocean and untamed beauty.

Click here to listen.

The Promise by Tim Janis was how I pictured the moment when Adrianne enters into the great hall of the underwater palace.

Click here to listen.

Return to Innocence by Enigma was Jendayi's theme song. The irresistible call and primitive power fit her perfectly. You can even hear the whale if you listen closely.

Click here to listen.

Denn and Adrianne's theme song was Teardrops on my Guitar by Taylor Swift. Though it is a modern song, I felt it spoke of Adrianne's feelings for her dearest best friend perfectly. Replace the name Drew with Denn in your mind and you've got the idea.

Click here to listen.

This is only a small sample of some of the many songs I used. So now I'm curious. If you were to create a soundtrack for Forbidden Sea--what songs would you include?

Forbidden Sea is Out in Stores Today!

2010-07-01T08:35:00.001-07:00

Forbidden Sea was officially released today. In the spirit of celebration, I have two links to brand new reviews of Forbidden Sea.

Alex over at Tales of a Teenage Book Lover has his review of the book up now. Click here to view it. I was stunned and amazed when I discovered Alex is fourteen years old. He writes so well, I would not be surprised if he becomes an author one day himself someday. He even has a a video of himself reviewing Forbidden Sea on YouTube. Click here to see it.

And Juju at Tales of Whimsy has her review up as well. Click here to see it. I adore Juju's blog. It just has a cozy feeling about it. The same feeling you get when you curl up on a rainy day with your favorite Jane Austen book.

In the months to come, I will be posting some fun inside information about Forbidden Sea--including deleted scenes and fun facts that never made it into the final write up of the story. An author always knows so much more about her characters and their backgrounds then can ever be told in just one book. I also know what happens to Adrianne and the gang in the future.

But that is another book entirely! : )

Now everybody run down to your nearest library or bookstore and request they buy Forbidden Sea as soon as possible! : )

The Winner is!

2010-07-01T05:34:00.000-07:00

The Forbidden Sea ARC contest is now CLOSED.

I wanted to thank all of you who responded to this contest! Especially those of you who took the time to post, tweet and otherwise help to pass the word along. All those who did got their names in the drawing twice. One thing having a book published has taught me is that the book blogging community on line is filled with warm and friendly people who all share a deep love of books. It has been wonderful getting to know some of you. Even though I have never met you in person--I consider you to be my friends. Because of this, I have a hard time just wanting to pick one of you to win whenever I have a contest. I wish I had enough ARCs to share one with everyone. But Alas, it is not to be.

So without further ado, the winner of the Forbidden Sea signed ARC is:

Bookaholic!

Looks like that second entree paid off for you this time, Bookaholic. : ) Congratulations and I hope you like Forbidden Sea!

And for those who didn't win this time around, it is your lucky day. Juju of Tales of Whimsy is now holding a contest to give away one gently used ARC copy of Forbidden Sea on her blog. Click here to find out more.

Thanks Juju for your lovely review! I knew you had to be a kindred spirit the minute I saw your gorgeous blog.

Sneak Preview

2010-06-29T13:05:00.001-07:00

Amazon has now posted pictures of the first few pages of Forbidden Sea on their website. If you want to read just a little bit of the prologue and first chapter, you can go there now by clicking here.Make sure to click on the "Look Inside" tab above the picture of the cover.

Forbidden Sea Signed ARC Giveaway!

2010-06-25T06:56:00.000-07:00

Now Closed.

With less than a week left before Forbidden Sea hits the store shelves, I thought it was time for me to hold one last ARC giveaway. By hook and by crook I've managed to get my hands on one more advanced reader copy and I'm now going to give it away here on this blog. I will be holding a random drawing on July 1st, the day Forbidden Sea comes out. This ARC will be a signed copy. Because this is a special giveaway to commemorate the coming out of my book, I've decided to open this drawing internationally. My pocket book may hate me, but I want everyone who wants to enter to get a chance. So how do you enter? Just leave your name and an email contact in the comments below.

Good luck to all!

P.S. If you have a blog, I'd really appreciate your posting this contest on it to help get the word out and get everyone excited for Forbidden Sea's release! For those who are willing to do so, I will put your name in the drawing for the signed ARC twice. Just make sure to post a link to your blog in comments along with your email so I will know who to enter twice. Thanks in advance!

I Guess It Must Be Good

2010-06-24T14:54:00.000-07:00

Today I was working on my newest story on my lunch break and one of my coworkers sat down and wanted to hear some of what I was writing. I read just one little part of my ghost story (a rather creepy part actually) to her. This was the first time I let anyone see this story so I was a little worried what she would think. While I was reading, one of my other co-workers came over and started to listen. Before I knew what was happening, they had set up an appointment to come over to my house on Saturday so they could hear more of the story. I warned them that it doesn't have an ending yet--but that doesn't seem to matter much to them. So I guess the story must be half way decent after all if two library employees can't get enough of it. It not like they don't have access to real published books or anything! : ) It was rather satisfying all the same.

And Even More Buzz Around the Internet

2010-06-17T06:13:00.000-07:00

Liyana at Liyanaland has posted her review of Forbidden Sea. Since Liyana has never read a mermaid book before, I feel this positive review is a particular triumph for my novel. : ) Thanks for the great review Liyana!

Click here to read her review in full.

Two Book Signings in the Future

2010-06-11T22:06:00.000-07:00

Only two and a half weeks to go before the release of Forbidden Sea. I've got two book signings already lined up. If you happen to live in the Utah area, feel free to stop by for an evening to fun. I'll be meeting with the public, talking about my inspiration for Forbidden Sea, and answering questions. There will be a book signing afterward for those who are interested. Books will be available for purchase both days while supplies last.

Click here for more information on the Provo City Library book signing on July 12th 7:00pm-8:00pm.

Or if you live closer to Orem Public Library, click here for more information about the book signing that will take place there on July 20th at 2:00pm. Make sure to click on the "authors" link to get the information.

Mark your calendars and I hope to see you there!

I've Been a Busy Girl

2010-06-05T15:12:00.000-07:00

Click on the pictures to get a closer look.

I finally finished the sculpture of the mermaid in my story.

First off, I have to say that she photographs funny because of her unusual skin color. The dark green skin looks a lot cooler in real life than it does in these photos and I can't figure out why. You can't see her makeup too well in these pictures. (The clay has a sort of shimmer to it that reflects the light weird, I think.)

Every one of those green braids was hand braided by myself. Each and every one has a gold bead attached to the end of it. It took me longer to do the hair than all the rest of her combine. You can't see it in the photo, but she has gorgeous variations of color threaded subtly through the braids.

She is currently on display at the Orem Public Library. If you live in the area, feel free to pop by and take a look in person.

You might have noticed that the way she looks doesn't exactly match the cover of the book. All I can say is, she looks the way I described her in the story. Authors don't get a say in what their book's cover looks like. They don't even get to talk to the artist. If you like the way the mermaid looks on the cover better, feel free to imagine her any way you want when reading the book.

I won't be the least bit offended. : )

I Love A Good Challenge

2010-05-30T07:31:00.000-07:00

A debut author's best friend is "google alerts". That is how I know when ever someone writes anything about Forbidden Sea on the internet. Without it I couldn't keep on top of who is saying what about my book.

Today I found this fun Summer reading challenge on the Life After Jane book blog. The one thing I miss most about living in California (where I grew up) is not having the beaches around, especially during the Summer. When you read Forbidden Sea you will find my life long love affair with the ocean in my discriptions of the sea. The wonder and beauty of the ocean lingers in my heart even though I live far away from it now. The beach always held a magic and romance for me that has never left. So here is a Summer reading challenge that takes after my own heart. You have to read ten books that have a water theme before the end of the Summer! Since I will not be able to get down and visit California's beaches this year--I guess this is the next best thing. If you are feeling up for a challenge, feel free to click on the link above and join in the fun!

P.S. Forbidden Sea counts!

More Reviews

2010-05-27T07:12:00.000-07:00

Only one month left until Forbidden Sea is released to the public. It's getting down to the line and more and more reviews are surfacing. I've been pleasantly surprised by the good buzz surrounding Forbidden Sea. Here are a few new reviews I discovered online lately:

SWON Library Review - To read this review click here.

Kids World Review - To read this review click here.

Random Buzzers - To read this review click here.

Thanks to all you great reviewers out there! For those heading down to BEA this week, don't forget to drop by the Scholastic booth and ask for an ARC of Forbidden Sea. As for those who are still waiting to get your chance to read Forbidden Sea, it won't be long now.

UK Cover--Let's Take a Vote

2010-05-14T16:25:00.000-07:00

The final UK Cover for Forbidden Sea can now be seen on Amazon UK. Click here to see what it looks like! So let's take a vote. Which one do you like best? The US cover (the one showing on this page) or the UK cover? Make sure to list where you are from with your vote--I'm curious if where a person lives really does affect what style of cover they like. Let me know what you think. Be honest now. You won't hurt my feelings. I had no say what so ever on either cover.

They Way it SHOULD Have Ended

2010-05-05T16:01:00.000-07:00

Have you ever read a book that after finishing it, you wished you could rewrite the ending? I have. More times than I can count. I’ve often wondered if this is because I’m a writer or if this is something that happens to a lot of people when they read books.

Take the Wren series by Sherwood Smith for instance. I loved this fabulous series when I was younger, but I always felt that Wren and Prince Conner would have been a perfect match. I read the whole series just waiting for the moment when they would finally “discover” each other. It never happened, and I was left feeling just a little bit cheated because of it. Still loved the series though.

Then there was the Emily of New Moon series--my absolute favorite series of books when I was young. However, you wait so long through that series to see Teddy and Emily fall in love and get together that when they finally do--the story ends so fast you don't even get to see the wedding. Come on, we readers should at least get the pay off of attending the wedding and basking in the glow for one chapter! After all, Teddy had put so much time and effort into his engagement with Ilse before it was broken, he should have done even more for Emily, his true love. Am I right? What can I say, I'm a die hard, hopeless romantic.

The Girl with the Silver Eyes by Willo Davis Roberts was another book I loved growing up. I wanted that book to have a sequel so bad, as a kid, I could almost taste it. What happened to the four kids after they went away to school to learn how to use their powers? What adventures did the four of them have growing up together? The world will never know.

So what about all of you? What are the books you wish had ended differently? How would you have liked them to end instead? I want to hear all about it in comments.

And Even More Reviews

2010-04-28T08:18:00.000-07:00

Another review has turned up, this one from Kiss the book. The reviewer this time is a middle school student. It's extra fun to see what my target audience has to say about Forbidden Sea. Check it out by clicking the link above.

Scholastic must be handing out the ARCs left and right these days because reviews of Forbidden Sea are popping up all over the internet. Here is one from Ellie over at Ellz Readz. Thanks for your kind words Ellie--so glad you liked it. And if anyone else liked the book and is planning to write a review in the near future, send me an email when you do and I'll be sure to put a link to it here.

The mermaid sculpture doll I've been working on is almost complete. She has turned out beautifully, even if I do say so myself. : ) I'll post pictures of her as soon as she is finished.

Dreaming of Books ARC Giveaway

2010-04-27T11:17:00.000-07:00

Jenny over at Dreaming of Books is currently hosting a giveaway of a Forbidden Sea ARC! If you’ve been dying to get your hands on a copy of Forbidden Sea before the release date in July, this is your chance! Jenny has also posted an in depth review of Forbidden Sea as well as an interview with me. Click here to head on over to Dreaming of Books to enter the ARC contest and read her review. By the way, Jenny, love your new blog layout!

I Need Some Title Suggestions for Great Middle Grade Novels

2010-04-12T19:20:00.001-07:00

I'm going to be putting on a library program for middle grade girls in the near future and I need some suggestions for titles of GREAT girl books. These can't just be good books, these have to be the best! Something that any girl in 4th to 5th grade would absolutely adore. The titles have to be found in the children's section of the library not the teen section, so things like Twilight are out this time around. If any of you fantastic book bloggers and readers out there have any suggestions for me--I'd love to have you add them to comments below. And list as many as you want, I'm desperate here. : )

Thanks in advance for all your help.

Library Patrons and Book Buyers Rule the World!

2010-04-09T15:45:00.000-07:00

Novelist's recent comment about going in and requesting her library to purchase Forbidden Sea got me thinking. As a librarian, I have seen first hand the power library patrons have if they take the time to actually go into their local library and put in a formal request for a book to be purchased. When someone takes the time to ask for a book, the librarians in my library do everything they can to try and fulfill the person's request. Heaven and earth moves and the book is bought. It's like magic.

I'll tell you a library secret, I've often wished more people would place requests for books, that way we librarians would know what it is that people in our city are interested in reading. The other reason I wish they would is because we often don't have a certain book I want to read--but when I put in a request as a librarian--they tend to ignore it. After all, I'm just one of their coworkers. What do I know about what people really want to read? :) But if a patron puts in a request for the same book, we usually have it within a few weeks! So here is your chance to stand up and use your library patron power--go into your local library and put in a request for that book you've really been wanting to read! What can they do but say no? And odds are real good they will buy the book if they possibly can. Then you finally get to read that fantastic, to-die-for book you've been wanting to read for months.

Sounds good to me.

Reviews of Forbidden Sea

2010-03-20T10:00:00.000-07:00

There is nothing more exciting (and frightening) to an author than reviews of their book. Reviews are the feedback you've been waiting for--a sign that someone has actually read your book and that all your hard work has finally paid off. Not all reviews are good, of course. Some are down right vicious at times, but then you can't please everyone. (One of my all time favorite books is To Kill a Mockingbird, and it is one of the most banned books around.) I've included some links to reviews of Forbidden Sea below. I'm only going to link to the good reviews, because, hey, this is my blog and I choose to focus on the good not the bad. : )

Most of these reviews do not have spoilers, but a few do--so read at your own risk.

Ossining Public Library - My first real teenage reviewer! How exciting!

Goodreads Reviews - Thank you to all the readers who took time to write down what they thought of my book on Goodreads. You guys actually brought tears to my eyes as I read these awesome reviews. Being a librarian I've often used Goodreads for my work, but I never thought that I'd be reading reviews of my own book on there someday!

Cinjoella's Review - Librarian's are the best! Not that I'm prejudice or anything. : )

Two and a Half Book Lovers - Raspberry and Trackgeek of Two and a Half Book Lovers also asked me to do an interview which you can read about here.

La Femme Reader Review - Thanks Eleni, the book may not have been your cup of tea, but your review of it was completely honest and fair, which makes me value your opinion all the more.

More coming soon . . .

Great News! Gotta Share

2010-03-16T16:15:00.000-07:00

I have exciting news I've been wanting to share here on this blog, and now I officially can. Forbidden Sea is about to go international. Scholastic UK has picked up the book and it will be published in the UK in August 2010. They even made a new cover. I'm not allowed to post it on this blog yet, but when I can, we'll all have to take a vote and see which cover everyone likes the most. The best part of all is that I was already planning my very first trip to London for later this year. Talk about fantastic coincidences. I could not have planned it better if I tried.

Mermaid Sightings (Believe it or Not)

2010-02-22T16:37:00.000-08:00

Looks like the real mermaids are stirring in Israel. I wonder if one of them is the mermaid from my story? Click the link below to learn more about this bizarre phenomena.

http://www.livescience.com/strangenews/090813-bad-mermaid.html

A one million dollar reward is nothing to sneeze at. Quick, everyone grab your best mermaid costumes and cameras and head to the beach! It's mermaid season.

How Do You Buy Books?

2010-02-17T14:14:00.000-08:00

It has finally happened. Forbidden Sea is offically featured in the summer 2010 Scholastic catalog our library just recieved. It makes it seem more real, somehow, seeing my book in a catalog.

As the day of my book's release draws ever near, I find myself very interested in how people purchase their books. Recently a friend of mine took the time to explain the strange mystery that is Amazon rankings and I discovered that they pretty much don't tell you a whole lot when it comes right down to it. So I've decided to ask all of you expert book purchasers out there how do you buy your books? Online? Which sites? Or do you like going into a bookstore personally to pick up your copies? Which stores do you prefer? At the library I work for, most of our books are ordered from Baker and Taylor. But we do use other providers as well. The other thing I'd like to know is how early in advance do you like to purchase your books? Really early or right after they come out? Or do you like to wait and see reviews of books or check them out of a library first before making a purchase?

Inquiring minds want to know.

Obsessions of a Book Addict

2010-02-07T07:28:00.000-08:00

Since most of you following this blog are voracious readers, just like me, I had a question I wanted to throw out there. I find myself obsessed with certain types of books--mainly young adult and middle grade. But I also find myself drawn to the same subjects and topics over and over as I pick the books I want to read. Not that I don't love to break out once in a while and try something new, but certain subjects will definitely make me take a second look at a book every time. I guess you could call this obsessions, since I never seem to grow tired of them. I'm curious what YOUR obsessions are. What kinds of stories always grab your attention? My obsessions include--historical books with magical realism, fairy tale retellings, anything set in the Jane Austen period, good old fashioned ghost stories, any story with a doll in it, and non-fiction involving archeology in any way. I also love non-fiction books about unusual but fascinating subjects. (Ever read The Cosmic Joker by Brian Innes?)

Now it is your turn. What are your obsessions? What subjects have an undeniable pull on you? Leave your answers in comments and if you have any great books to recommend add them as well. I'm always on the look out for more great books to read!

Forbidden Sea is Now on Facebook

2010-02-05T10:27:00.000-08:00

For you Facebook fans there is now an official Forbidden Sea Facebook page. Feel free to visit it, participate in discussions, and catch up on the latest Forbidden Sea news. There is currently a discussion on favorite mermaid books going on. Feel free to add your two cents and see what others have been reading. You can start your own mermaid discussion as well.

http://www.facebook.com/pages/edit/?id=300689349440#!/pages/Forbidden-Sea/300689349440

One Lovely Blog Award

2010-01-25T15:50:00.000-08:00

My dear friend Karlene at Inksplasher has kindly given my blog a lovely award. Karlene has been one of my writer's group friends for years and is quite an author and blogger herself. Now that I have received this award, I am supposed to pass on the joy and nominate some of my own favorite blogs and list them here.

Many of my favorite blogs belong to friends who have personal blogs. Since most of them probably wouldn't want me to link up to those here on my public blog, I have decided to only list book blogs that I visit frequently in my work as a children's librarian. This list is huge, and trying to think of them all at once was very difficult, so I am sure I have forgotten some. I've put together a list of those I could remember--if yours is not on there, don't despair, I probably just ran out of brain power before I got to yours. Those who are listed for the award below, are now supposed to pass on this award to someone else.

Rebecca’s Book Blog: http://rebeccasbookblog.blogspot.com/ (What Rebecca doesn’t know about a book is not worth reading about.)

Two and a Half Book Lovers: http://twoandahalfbooklovers.blogspot.com/ (Blogging for the whole family! Also a great place to keep up with all the contests currently going on in the blogging community. My first official author interview was posted on this site. Check it out!)

Bookworming in the 21^st Century: http://www.bookworminginthe21stcentury.com/ (An invaluable resource for any children or teen librarian. Kristen always writes fair and honest reviews with great details. I find I tend to agree with her reviews a lot of the time.)

The Story Siren: http://www.thestorysiren.com/ (I stand in silent awe of The Story Siren’s knowledge of all things juvenile and teen fiction.)

Never Ending Shelf: http://www.theneverendingshelf.com/ (Just plain fabulous. Great reviews, contest info and all things book related. Pure heaven.)

The Blue Castle: http://thebluecastle.wordpress.com/ (If she loves The Blue Castle, by L.M. Montgomery I trust her opinion of other books implicitly.)

Princess Bookie: http://www.princessbookie.com/2009/05/upcoming-books.html (I ADORE the pink cupcake theme. Books truly are as scrumptious as pink cupcakes, don’t you think?)

La Femme Readers: http://lafemmereaders.blogspot.com/ (Love the new layout, Eleni.)

Tales of the Ravenous Reader: http://lushbudgetproduction.blogspot.com/ (Got to love that title! The blog itself is even better.)

Mandy Can Read: http://mandycanread.blogspot.com/ (Mandy brings a fresh teenage perspective to all her reviews. Nice work.)

My Fluttering Heart: http://myflutteringheart.blogspot.com/ (She blogs about great books and about a whole lot of other extremely fascinating things besides. Check out that real Bilbo Baggins house some guy built for his family to live in! And if your next wedding isn’t steampunk you are so missing out.)

Tempting Persephone: http://persephonereads.wordpress.com/ (Just recently discovered this one. Nice header artwork. Wish I knew who the artist was. I want them to design the cover of my next book.)

A Good Addiction: http://agoodaddiction.blogspot.com/ (I love that she always posts pictures of her dog sitting with her books. Toby is so cute.)

And for the younger crowd:

XOX Casey + Sammy Forever: http://cammylover.blogspot.com/ (Is there anything as delightful as a young fan who has finally discovered the perfect series of books? I think not. Fabulous job, Cammylover. Did you take all those cool photographs yourself?)

I'm sure there are many more but I don't want this post to take up too much space. Thank you to all the hardworking bloggers who provide me with such great blogs to read. I could not do my work as a well informed librarian without all of you. And if you have a great blog I didn't list here let me know, I'm always open to discovering more fantastic book blogs.

Congrats to all!

Mermaid Books for All Ages

2010-01-11T15:30:00.000-08:00

In my internet wanderings I’ve noticed that there are not a lot of comprehensive mermaid booklist out there for younger readers. As a librarian, I am constantly being asked by kids for new mermaid books to read. And since my book is a mermaid book, I’ve decided to put a list together here on my blog. They are in no particular order. Just for the record, I have not read most of these books so just because it is on the list does not mean I am endorsing the title. Read at your own risk.

Juvenile and Young Adult Fiction:

Forbidden Sea (Sheila A. Nielson)

Water Trilogy (Kara Dalkey)

Daughters of the Sea Series (Kathryn Lasky)

Thora: A Half-Mermaid Tale (Gillian Johnson)

Teenage Mermaid (Ellen Schreiber)

The Mermaid Summer (Mollie Hunter)

Midnight Pearls: A Retelling of "The Little Mermaid"(Debbie Viguié)

To Catch a Mermaid (Suzanne Selfors)

The Magic Mirror of the Mermaid Queen (Delia Sherman)

The Tail of Emily Windsnap Series (Liz Kessler)

Indigo (Alice Hoffman)

Aquamarine (Alice Hoffman)

A Serenade of Mermaids (Shirley Climo)

Ingo Series (Helen Dunmore)

Sea Change (Aimee Friedman)

Drift House (Dale Peck)

Wet Magic (Edith Nesbit)

The Islander (Cynthia Rylant)

The Merman (Dick King-Smith)

The Sea Man (Jane Yolen)

Sea Princess Azuri (Erica Reis)

Forgive My Fins (Tera Lynn Childs)

Princess Pearl Series (Teri Tao)

The Mermaid's Mirror (L.K. Madigan)

Between The Land And The Sea (Derrolyn Anderson)

The Mermaid Princess (Kris Rivers)

Lost Voices ( Sarah Porter)

Tempest Rising (Tracy Deebs)

Between the Sea and Sky (Jaclyn Dolamore)

Ripple (Mandy Hubbard)

May: Daughter of the Sea (Kathryn Lasky)

Mermaid: A Twist on the Classic Tale (Carolyn Turgeon)

Legend (John Brindley)

The Undrowned Child (Michelle Lovric)

Non-fiction Books:

The Secret World of Mermaids (Francine Rose)

The Book of Mermaids (Patricia Saxton)

Mermaids (Elizabeth Ratisseau)

The Secret History of Mermaids (Ari Berk)

Mermaid Tales from Around the World (Mary Pope Osborne and Troy Howell)

Mermaid Cookbook (Barbara Beery)

Imagine You're a Mermaid (Meg Clibbon and Lucy Clibbon)

Mermaids and Mermen (Shannon Knudsen)

Mermaids Most Amazing (Narelle Oliver)

Intermediate Reader Chapter Books:

Mermaid S.O.S. Series (Gillian Shields)

Mermaids (Lucille Recht Penner)

The Little Mermaid (Deborah Hautzig)

Fish in Room 11 (Heather Dyer)

Picture Books for Younger Readers:

The Tiniest Mermaid (Laura Garnham)

Mermaid Sister (Mary Ann Fraser)

Mermaid's Bracelet (Beth Harwood)

Mermaid Dreams ( Mark Sperring)

The Little Mermaid (Illustrated by Lisbeth Zwerger)

The Little Mermaid (Illustrated by Charles Santore)

The Secret Mermaid Handbook (Penny Dann)

Sukey and the Mermaid (Robert D. San Souci)

Mermaid Dance (Marjorie Hakala and Mark Jones)

Can You Catch a Mermaid? (Jane Ray)

Ten Little Mermaids (School Specialty Publishing)

The Merbaby (Teresa Bateman)

Nicholas Pipe (Robert D. San Souci)

Princess Fishtail (Frances Minters)

Fancy Nancy and the Mermaid Ballet (Jane O'connor)

I’m sure I have missed some so if you know any good mermaid books you don’t see on this list feel free to add them to comments.

A Case for Mermaid Fashion Sense

2010-01-05T13:09:00.000-08:00

Recently my eleven-year-old niece presented me with this picture she had drawn for me:

It made me laugh when I saw it because I used to draw mermaids when I was her age too--and just like hers, my mermaids always wore the latest in mermaid fashions. Tradition be hanged. Why should fairies get all the best outfits? Spiderweb dewdrop necklaces, rose petal skirts, golden leaf slippers, there is no end to the imaginative possibilities when it comes to fairy attire. Traditional mermaids on the other hand have--what--clam shells or strategic hair?

Bor-ring.

The merfolk in my novel, you will discover, all wear fabulous clothing. I had far too much fun revisiting my childhood and designing those outfits while writing the book. I must have drawn at least a dozen different fashion designs while exploring clothing for both mermaids and mermen during the time I was researching this book and trying to figure out what the current trend in merfashions should be. I had to take into consideration what materials would hold up underwater, how fitted the clothes should be to make sure there wasn't a lot of annoying free floating extra material to drag the wearer down, or what accessories might be needed to keep looser clothing from floating up at inopportune moments? (A very awkward situation, especially when meeting your significant merman's relatives for the first time.)

Mermaid jewelery was also extremely tricky. How do you keep a necklace in its proper place instead of floating off while the wearer is swimming? And then there is the problem of rust. According to Google, the only metals that don't rust in salt water over time are:

Gold

Platinum

Palladium

Iridium

Rhodium

Lead - as in poisoning.

Stainless Steel

Nickel

Mercury- as in poisoning

I'm thinking gold and platinum are the winners. (Sorry silver fans, but unless you like murky black jewelry of the oxidized variety--better steer clear of pure silver jewelry while attending any mermaid balls.)

Here are a couple random early study sketches I did while trying to fathom the deeper mysteries of merfolk and their underwater fashions.

And now my young niece has taken up the cause of mermaid fashion as well. I may actually prefer her original design over my own. But then what is imagination for if not to challenge the norm and think outside the box for a change? Now if I can just figure out what centaurs will be wearing next season, I'll be all set for that new story I've been dying to write . . .

Deleted Scenes Part 5

2009-12-22T16:20:00.000-08:00

*SPOILER WARNING* Do not read this post unless you have already read Forbidden Sea.

There was a lot more to Lady Lauretta's story than is currently revealed in the final version of Forbidden Sea. For those who are curious, you can now read it here. This conversation takes place right before Lauretta asks Adrianne about the fate of her father.

ORIGINAL SCENE:

"My father wanted me to marry the son of a lord who lived on the mainland. Everything had been arranged, you see. I didn't like the young man. He was deadly dull and had the intelligence of a peahen." Lauretta made a very unprincess-like grimace over the memory of her once intended.

"I loved my father dearly and didn't want to disappoint him. He was so pleased with the match and I could see no way out of it without causing him a great deal of public embarrassment. I would go to the Rumble Stones at low tide and cry there where no one could see me. Then I would return home and pretend to be the perfect and content daughter. One day I went to the Rumbles and found Jendayi waiting for me there and--well--I'm sure you know the rest of what happened."

I did indeed. All the many pieces of the story now came together into one. How strangely different the truth was compared to the legends.

I'd have ditched the peahen for the handsome and dashing Prince Dasarian too.

Deleted Scenes Part 4

2009-12-22T16:09:00.000-08:00

*SPOILER WARNING* Do not read this post unless you have read Forbidden Sea.

Ever wonder what purpose Lady Lauretta's necklace of glowing beads served? The answer to this riddle was edited out. As you will notice from this scene, the private conversation between Lady Lauretta and Adrianne originally happened outside the castle instead of inside where it takes place in the final version.

ORIGINAL SCENE BEFORE EDITING:

The tiny lights within the beads of Lauretta's necklace seemed to glow even brighter, lighting our way as she led me along the outer palace wall. She caught me staring at the necklace and put up her hand to finger the beads.

"I can't call up light the way the rest of them can, so I use this instead," she said.

"Don't the lights burn you with their cold?" I said with a shiver.

"My husband made the beads especially for me. They hold the cold inside so it doesn't hurt to touch them. Clever, huh?"

The magic within the blood of the merfolk gives them all the powers they need to live beneath the sea. One of the things they would need to survive down in the darkest part of the ocean would be light--so their magic provides it.

Deleted Scenes Part 3

2009-12-22T15:38:00.000-08:00

*SPOILER WARNING* Do not read this post unless you have read Forbidden Sea.

For those who were wondering how it was possible for Jendayi's kingdom in the Caribbean Sea to get along without her for a hundred years, the answer to this question was originally included in the story but had to be taken out for pacing reasons.

ORIGINAL SCENE AS IT WAS BEFORE EDITING:

"You said you ruled the Caribbean Sea. Who is running things while you are away?" I asked.

Jendayi continued to study the mosaic as she answered. "My brother was willing to take up the crown while I performed this service for our royal cousin."

"Why you?" My question made Jendayi finally turn toward me. "That is a far distance to come just to play matchmaker."

"Her majesty, my cousin, said I was the only one she trusted with the important task of finding brides for her sons." Jendayi's voice was warm and wistful as her thoughts turned to those she loved. "Because of my noble blood I am, let us say, more adept than most of my kind at reading the hearts of men even while they are yet on the land."

"More than your brother?" I asked.

"Much more than my brother."

Though I do not say so in the book, I had always imagined the power of seeing the future to be a trait found dominantly in females rather than males. There are a few mermen born with the gift but not many. Even the Crown Prince Dasarian does not have this gift and his powers are great. The Sea Queen has some of this gift, of course, but Jendayi's powers of foresight are much greater than hers. This was one of the reasons she chose her younger cousin for the job. This is also the reason Jendayi believes she always knows best and nobody better tell her differently!

Deleted Scenes Part 2

2009-12-22T15:22:00.000-08:00

SPOILER WARNING: If you have not read Forbidden Sea do not read this post!

In an earlier draft of the story it was revealed that the Sea Queen was a widow. Because Jendayi had been raised in the Sea Queen's court, the prince consort (the Sea Queen's husband) had been like a father to her and they were very close when he tragically died. This scene took place as Adrianne and Jendayi are looking at the mosaic in the palace that depicts the birth of the merfolk race.

THE ORIGINAL SCENE BEFORE CHANGES WERE MADE:

"Where is the king in all this?" I asked.

"The king?" Jendayi cocked her head questioningly to one side.

"The Sea Queen's husband?"

Jendayi's swaying tail fell still. She turned her head slightly away as if examining the far left of the mosaic, but I had the feeling she wasn't really seeing what was before her. When she finally answered her voice seemed distant and hollow.

"Dakarai's prince consort died many years ago. Not long after the birth of their second son."

It must have been a tragic death. A loved one taken before their time. Young children left without a father.

Just like Papa.

With all her great power and alien majesty, Jendayi was no different than me when it came to her grief. It made my heart ache for her loss, but I didn't know what words to say that would make it better. I didn't know how to let her know I understood.

The silence stretched awkwardly between us and I decided it was time to move on to another subject.

For those who are curious. The Sea Queen's husband died while trying to save the lives of some human sailors whose ship had crashed into a reef during a storm. He was caught between the reef and a large piece of wreckage from the ship. Prince Dasarian was old enough at the time that he still has memories of his father, but his younger brother has no memory of him.

Deleted Scenes Part 1

2009-12-22T14:26:00.000-08:00

*SERIOUS SPOILER WARNING*

Do not read this post unless you have already read the book. Don't say I didn't warn you. : )

In the original story Jendayi had essentially been raised in the royal court of the Sea Queen. The queen acted as more of a mother figure to Jendayi than a cousin. The Sea Queen had been pushing Jendayi to marry, but because of all the political scrutiny involved in such a match, Jendayi and Rriess were attempting to keep their budding relationship under wraps for a little longer to avoid the inevitable public excitement that would quickly follow. They felt they needed time to get to know one another better. The scene was removed because there just wasn't time to go into enough detail on the subject for it to make sense. The scene below happened right after Rriess meets Adrianne for the first time.

ORIGINAL SCENE BEFORE EDITING:

"I think Rriess likes you," I said to Jendayi. She calmly continued to swim as if she hadn't heard me.

"I think you like him," I added recklessly.

Jendayi turned her full attention on me, her amber eyes searching my face. "I always thought you were a perceptive girl," Jendayi said, nodding her head. Her crown flashed, reflecting the light of the city in its polished gold surface.

Breathing out a long watery sigh, Jendayi continued. "My cousin, the Sea Queen, has been after me to marry for many years. I would appreciate if you would not speak to her of my meeting with Rriess today. It might cause--" Jendayi hesitated.

"Speculation?" I finished for her.

"Well spoken indeed, Adrianne of Windwaithe," Jendayi said with a smile.

My Dream House

2009-12-03T12:13:00.001-08:00

I've been working on this story with a Victorian mansion in it and while looking online for pictures of what rooms in a Victorian mansion look like, I came across some spectacular photos of houses I wished I lived in. So I've thrown together a few of these photos to create the house of my dreams. Tours begin here:

Welcome to my dream house. This is the "humble" abode I will never own--at least not in this life. Let me show you around.

The master bath is on the left--the guest bath on the right. I painted the walls and ceilings myself--NOT.

This is the Entertainment Room where my family, friends and I watch BBC period films while eating chocolate bonbons to our heart's content. Note the star ceiling and plush leather seats. Only the best will do.

Welcome to the parlor. Stay and have a hot cup of gourmet cocoa while my professional piano player serenades us.

Pink and cream color schemes always make me feel more relaxed.

This is my dream library. Everything is organized and in it's proper place, unlike any of the public libraries I've ever actually worked in over the years. : ) The youth and teen literature section takes up the whole second floor. Absolute heaven.

Here is the master bedroom.

If only it were real. *sigh* Unfortunately the harsh reality is that my bedroom looks like this most mornings:

Notice the dog trying to blend in with the chaos. She's used to it.

What would your dream house look like?

Forbidden Sea Available for Pre-order

2009-12-01T16:04:00.000-08:00

I got the thrill of my life today when I discovered that Forbidden Sea is now available for pre-order on Amazon.com. It's almost like I'm a real author or something. Click the link below to see this miracle of miracles.

http://www.amazon.com/Forbidden-Sea-Sheila-Nielson/dp/0545097347/ref=sr_1_7?ie=UTF8&s=books&qid=1259712393&sr=8-7

Okay, maybe you're not as excited as I am about this--but that's my book on Amazon!!! It doesn't get much better than that.

My Favorite Books EVER

2009-11-29T21:53:00.000-08:00

For those of you who expressed interest in what my favorite books are--here they are in no particular order. I have to warn you ahead of time that I have been a librarian for twelve and a half years so my complete list of favorites is quite lengthy. I won't list all of them here because it would take up too many pages of this blog. You will notice that I tend to like all different kinds of genres and love charmingly different sorts of books, some of which you may find odd. I think a lot of books speak to us at different times based on what is happening during that period of our life. What effects one person with great force, may leave another reader cold. I will not be offended if you don't agree with me on every book on this list. That's one of the most delightful parts about stories, our relationship to them is completely personal.

Chapter Books:

Sammy Keyes Series by Wendelin Van Draanen
Homeless Bird by Gloria Whelan
Esperanza Rising by Pam Munoz Ryan
Seven Wonders of Sassafras Springs by Betty Birney
Hunger Games by Suzanne Collins
Hollow Kingdom by Clare Dunkle
Roll of Thunder, Hear My Cry by Mildred Taylor
To Kill a Mocking Bird by Harper Lee
Life As We Knew It by Susan Pfeffer
Bartimaeus Trilogy by Jonathan Stroud
House of Shadows by Andre Norton
Flipped by Wendelin Van Draanen
Granny Torelli Makes Soup by Sharon Creech
The Miraculous Journey of Edward Tulane by Kate DiCamillo
Stargirl by Jerry Spinelli
Mennyms Series by Sylvia Waugh
Emily of New Moon by L. M. Montgomery
Witch of Blackbird Pond by Elizabeth George Speare
Jackaroo by Cynthia Voigt
I Rode a Horse of Milk White Jade by Diane Wilson
Skeleton Creek by Patrick Carman
Skulduggery Pleasant by Derek Landy
Moon and Sun Series by Holly Lisle
Night Gate Series by Isobelle Carmody
Percy Jackson Series by Rick Riordan
Howl's Moving Castle by Diana Wynne Jones
Beauty by Robin McKinley
Mairelon the Magician by Patrica Wrede
Sorcery and Cecelia by Patrica Wrede
A Posse of Princesses by Sherwood Smith
Crown Duel by Sherwood Smith
Keturah and Lord Death by Martine Leavitt
Emily of New Moon by L. M. Montgomery
Little White Horse by Elizabeth Goudge
Ella Enchanted by Gail Carson Levine
Goose Girl by Shannon Hale
Princess Academy by Shannon Hale
Dragon's Milk by Susan Fletcher
Dragon Slippers by Jessica Day George
Larklight by Philip Reeve
Dragon and Thief Series by Timothy Zahn
Monster of the Month Club by Diane Curtis Regan
Girl Who Invented Romance by Caroline B. Cooney
Bella at Midnight by Diane Stanley
Beauty Sleep by Cameron Dokey
Wrinkle in Time by Madeleine L'Engle
Queen's Thief Series by Megan Whalen Turner
Spiderwick Chronicles by Tony DiTerlizzi
Mysterious Benedict Society by Trenton Lee Stewart
Penderwicks by Jeanne Birdsall
Rivka's Way by Teri Kanefield
Behind the Attic Wall by Sylvia Cassedy
Yellow Star by Jennifer Roy
Wait Till Helen Comes by Mary Downing Hahn
Dollhouse Murders by Betty Ren Wright
Two are Better Than One by Carol Ryrie Brink
Oracle Betrayed by Catherine Fisher
Little Sister by Kara Dalkey
Wabi by Joseph Bruchac
Thief Lord by Cornelia Funke
City of Ember by Jeanne DuPrau
Girl with the Silver Eyes by Roberts
Watcher in the Mist by Norma Johnston
Murdered, My Sweet by Joan Lowry Nixon
House on Hackman's Hill by Joan Lowry Nixon
Sideways Stories from Wayside School by Louis Sachar
Boys Start the War by Phyllis Reynolds Naylor
Cat Royal Mysteries by Julia Golding
I, Coriander by Sally Gardner
True Confessions of Charlotte Doyle by Avi
Harry Potter by J. K. Rowling
Seer of Shadows by Avi
Drowned Maiden's Hair by Laura Schlitz
Only Alien on the Planet by Kristen D. Randle
Prydain Chronicles by Lloyd Alexander
Third Eye by Lois Duncan
Down a Dark Hall by Lois Duncan
Gift of Magic by Lois Duncan
Other Side of Dark by Joan Lowery Nixon
Shadow of a Unicorn by Norma Johnston
Deadly Game of Magic by Joan Lowery Nixon
Giver by Lois Lowry
Headless Cupid by Zilpha Keatley Snyder
Westing Game by Ellen Raskin
Elona Holms Mysteries by Nancy Springer
Surviving the Applewhites by Stephanie Tolan
Running Out of Time by Margaret Haddix
Nory Ryan's Song by Patricia Giff
Dragon of the Lost Sea by Laurence Yep
Watson's Go to Birmingham by Christopher Paul Curtis
Children of the River by Linda Crew
Ghost Cat by Beverly Butler
Betsy and Tacy Series by Maud Hart Lovelace
African Mask by Janet Rupert
Sherwood Ring by Elizabeth Marie Pope
Perilous Gard by Elizabeth Marie Pope
Ghost in the Noonday Sun by Sid Fleischman
Dark is Rising Sequence by Susan Cooper
Daddy-Long-Legs by Jean Webster
Savvy by Ingrid Law
Girl Who Could Fly by Victoria Forester
Thirteenth Child by Patrica Wrede

Picture Books:

Tuesday by David Wiesner
There is a Bird on Your Head by Mo Willems
Amazing Grace by Mary Hoffman
Any Pop-up Book by Robert Sabuda
When Jesse Came Across the Sea by Amy Hest
Wishing of Biddy Malone by Joy Cowley
Beegu by Alexis Deacon
The Wave by Suzy Lee
Falling for Rapunzel by Leah Wilcox
Waking Beauty by Leah Wilcox
Stephanie's Ponytail by Robert Munsch
Wolves in the Walls by Neil Gaiman
What to Do About Alice by Barbara Kerley
Lion and the Mouse by Jerry Pinkney
Village that Vanished by Kadir Nelson
Girl Who Spun Gold by Virginia Hamilton
Frederick by Leo Lionni
Bad Day at Riverbend by Chris Van Allsburg
Brothers of the Knight by Kadir Nelson
Miss Tizzy by Libba Moore Gray
Once Upon a Time, The End by Geoffery Kloske
Fanny's Dream by Caralyn Buehner
Hollyhock Wall by Martin Waddell
Little Oh by Laura Melmed
Gentleman and the Kitchen Maid by Diane Stanley
Yo! Yes? by Christopher Raschka
Jane Wishing by Tobi Tobias
Don't Make Me Laugh by James Stevenson

Nonfiction:

Shipwreck at the Bottom of the World by Jennifer Armstrong
At Her Majesty's Request by Walter Dean Myers
Bodies from the Ice by James Deem
Escape! The Story of the Great Houdini by Sid Fleischman
Lincolns by Candace Fleming
Blizzard by Jim Murphy
Cosmic Joker by Brian Innes
Lost Painting by Jonathan Harr
Ain't Nothing But a Man by Scott Reynolds Nelson
Great Fire by Jim Murphy
Hiding Place by Corrie Ten Boom
Voice that Challenged a Nation by Russell Freedman
Swords: An Artist's Devotion by Ben Boos
Pick Me Up: Stuff You Need to Know
Dollhouse Decorator by Vivienne Boulton
Children Just Like Me by Barnabas Kindersley
Desiderata by Max Erhman
Children of Topaz by Michael Tunnell
Anastasia's Album by Hugh Brewster

I just realized how long this list has gotten so I'd better stop while I'm ahead. I have dozens more books I'd love to add but nobody will ever make it to the bottom of this list if I do! I'll save them for another day. What about you guys? What are your favorite books ever?

I've Got a Secret

2009-11-29T21:52:00.000-08:00

Something exciting has happened with Forbidden Sea, but I'm not allowed to tell what it is here on this blog yet. Keeping it to myself is driving me crazy. If I have to suffer at least you can all suffer with me. : )

I Could Use Your Help

2009-11-16T14:42:00.000-08:00

I've been attempting to update my blogger profile to something a little less boring then what I currently have posted, but have found myself at a loss as to what to put down. So I need of all you book lovers out there to help me out. What kinds of things do you like to know about an author? Those burning questions no one ever seems to answer. Birth date? College attended? Favorite book ever? Pets? Blood type? Okay, maybe not blood type, but what?

Any ideas?

Is there any information you really hate an author to include? Maybe info about the author is not as important as info about the book?

What do you want to know? I'd really love your input.

Forbidden Sea Contest Giveaway

2009-10-31T12:24:00.000-07:00

The contest is now closed. The winner of the necklace will be anounced sometime Monday so check back then! Good luck to all who participated.

Good Things are Coming!

2009-10-19T10:33:00.000-07:00

I have been honored, and completely floored, by the amount of positive interest that has been generated regarding the release of my book, Forbidden Sea. I am thrilled and excited for everyone to get a chance to read the book, and wish it were possible for me to give everyone who wanted one, an ARC of the book. If I were J. K. Rowing, I would demand enough ARCs to hand one out to every fantastic book reviewer who is excited to get their hands on one! Unfortunately, I am not J. K. Rowling and my publisher has given me very (and I do mean very) few ARCs. In fact, they gave me less than originally promised. (I think they like to be the ones to decide how to distribute ARCs and to whom they will go.) So for all you wonderful reviewers, bloggers, and delightful book loving people who are dying to read my book, I would suggest contacting Scholastic Press directly and see if they will let you have one. The last few remaining ARCs I do have left in my possession will be given away in drawings on this blog in the last couple months leading up to the release date of Forbidden Sea, so stay tuned. The drawings will be only for those who are official followers of this site, so make sure you are signed up. You just might be one of the lucky ones!

Inspiration--the Stuff Stories are Made Of

2009-10-10T18:03:00.000-07:00

A lot of people have asked me where I get the ideas for my stories. When they do, they get a lot more answer then they bargained for. Inspiration for stories can come from almost anywhere. And I do mean anywhere. I once got an idea for a story by reading the title of a book. I can't tell you what the book was about because I never did read it. The title alone was enough. I've gotten more than one story from dreams. I had a vampire dream I thought about writing into a book years before Stephanie Meyer was ever seen or heard of. Sadly, the world will never get to read mine now. : )

One of the stories I am currently working on, came to me after seeing this set of porcelain dolls years ago.

They look innocent enough don't they? But story they inspired is a little on the creepy side. I love those kind of books! Don't you? I now own these dolls. How could I resist?

The red headed character featured in the picture below was inspired by a younger cousin of mine. I actually had her model for this picture. This particular character now stars in a story all her own. If it ever gets published, the book will definitely be dedicated to Liz.

I will often draw a picture of my characters (like the one here) to help me get a sense of their personality and what they look like. The characters may evolve over time, but the drawings give me my first peek into their world.

For me, music is one of the best inspirations when I'm in the middle of writing a story. I will often create a soundtrack, picking songs that I feel will create the mood I am working for key scenes. For me, creativity just seems to flow easier when there is music to help the ideas along. If I have characters who fall in love in a book I always choose "their song", so to speak. I will play this song as I write scenes between the two of them. I usually pick a song for each of the main characters as well.

Real life is the very best place to draw inspiration from. I've become quite the people watcher over the years. As a children's librarian, if I just keep my eyes and ears peeled, ideas for characters and scenes are being enacted right in my library every day. I was once asked to make a school visit to a sixth grade class by the library. Since I was working on a humorous book about a sixth grade class at the time, I decided to take mental notes while I was there. It was a real eye opener, let me tell you. I got more material from that one visit than I ever would have imagined. Sometimes truth is more hilarious than fiction.

What about you writer's out there? Where do you get your inspiration?

Writer's Block

2009-10-09T12:20:00.000-07:00

I've been struggling with a certain scene in one of the books I'm currently working on, for quite some time now. It got so bad I had to skip the whole chapter and move on so it wouldn't stop the flow of the rest of the book. So a few nights ago it suddenly came to me, like a light from above, exactly what I had to do to make the chapter work. With some major reworking of the scene, I was soon off and running again. There is nothing like overcoming writer's block to make your whole life seem just a little brighter. I've never been able to understand why ideas can flow so easily one week, and the next, my mind is a veritable creative drought. Thankfully, the rains always seem to come eventually if I just let the scene simmer on the back burner long enough. What makes this miraculous transformation happen? I have no clue. Is it karma? Those vitamin supplements I've been taking? Or does God finally take pity on me and give me a little push in the right direction? Possibly a combination of all of the above.

I recently read an article about writer's block. They asked a bunch of writer's to list the things they do to get over their blocks. Eating hoards of chocolate, dancing around the living room, and taking long naps were all methods listed. For me, when writer's block strikes and I start to feel myself panicking, I skip the whole scene and start writing at some other point in the book that sounds more exciting to me. Or I temporarily jump to another story completely. It is not uncommon for me to be working on two or three stories simultaneously at any given time. My manuscripts in progress often resemble streets ridden with potholes. (Or should I say--plot holes.) Whole chapters can be missing in action for months (or in extreme cases, years) on end. This is one of the reasons I won't let people read my manuscripts until they are completely finished.

So how about you writer's out there in Blogland? When writer's block strikes, what do you do? I'd love to know.

Check Out Rebecca's Book Blog

2009-09-30T15:56:00.000-07:00

Rebecca has put up a fun little preview of my book on her fantastic blog. (As a librarian, I've been using her blog a lot at work lately. If you want to know all the new young adult books out there, this is the place to go.) Thanks so much for getting the word out there!

http://rebeccasbookblog.blogspot.com/2009/09/waiting-on-wednesday-forbidden-sea-by.html

P.S. Welcome to new followers--Heather, Dannie, Suitejuju, Aimee, and Lexie!

Final Book Cover and Story Summary

2009-08-27T14:03:00.000-07:00

I recieved a sneak peak at the final version of the whole dust jacket for Forbidden Sea. (Front and back.) I LOVE the design! The color is this deep aquamarine blue-green. There are gold foil designs edging the sides. On the front flap is this description:

"When, one stormy night, a mermaid comes to take Adrianne Keynnman’s sister, Cecily, down into the depths of the sea, Adrianne knows she must fight with every ounce of her strength to protect her little sister. On land, Adrianne toils away, trying to eke out a living for her mother, sister, and aunt, after a tragic accident stole her father. Now, life takes a strange and frightening turn as Adrianne’s dreams are filled with the mermaid’s singing."

There was more, but I felt it gave away too much of the story so I'm not going to put the rest of it here. I just wish I didn't have to wait another year for everyone else to see it.

First Pass of Printed Pages

2009-08-21T16:03:00.000-07:00

I received my first pass of typeset pages for my book. After the typesetters get the book ready for printing, they print off one copy and check it one last time to make sure there are no mistakes before they begin printing copies of the book. I have to okay any changes made at this point. I like the layout of the book. It's quite elegant, with beautiful patterns behind the heading of each chapter. I can't wait to get my first ARC (Advanced Reader Copy)! There was one page in the book where the typesetter had written "Nice!" beside one particularly effective description in the book. It made me feel good all the rest of the day. : )

And the Bad News Is . . .

2009-08-01T19:55:00.000-07:00

I recieved an email from my editor today and she had some unhappy news for me. They are moving back the release date of my book from May 1, 2010 to July 1, 2010. The marketing department felt that would be a better time slot for sales. The Scholastic Book Fairs has decided to wait and start selling my book at the same time instead of ahead of time, so it will now be another year before my book comes out anywhere. It's enough to make a hard working author weep with discouragement. I sometimes think the book will never come out. I guess I should look at the bright side--I'll have more than enough time to finish the sequel between now and then. And maybe even the ghost story I've started working on as well. We'll see.

*SIGH*

Did You Know?

2009-07-21T14:03:00.000-07:00

Fascinating but completely useless facts about how Forbidden Sea came to be.

- One day two darling little girls came into the library where I work asking for mermaid books. They were very disappointed to discover how few mermaid books we had for them to check out. Later, I got to thinking about this lack of mermaid stories and I started imagining what kind of mermaid I would want to write about. The mermaid in my story came to me as a fully formed character, but it was a while before I could find a story plot to do her justice. Forbidden Sea is the only story I've written where a character came to me before the story did.

- As a child, I used to love drawing mermaids with fantastic outfits I had designed myself. When I began imagining a merworld for my book, I found myself going back to this original idea and incorporated it into my story.

- The earliest plot for the Forbidden Sea didn't have a mermaid in it at all. The story was going nowhere until I remembered my mermaid character who still had no story to star in. After that the manuscript practically wrote itself.

- The first draft of this book took nine months to write. If you have ever tried to write a book while working full time, you will know how fast that is.

-Two publishing houses request to see this manuscript. Orchard Books was a little bit faster in getting back to me.

-It took two years for my publisher to actually make an offer on this manuscript.

-It took two more years to revise and publish.

-Contrary to popular belief, authors have no say in what their book cover will look like. I was very nervous until I saw Mr. Bagshaw's beautiful final work.

Completed Cover

2009-07-10T08:42:00.000-07:00

And here it is in all it's glory. If you look to the left you will see what the final artwork for my book's cover looks like. It came out so stunningly beautiful. I should be seeing a copy of the first pass of printed pages within the next few weeks. I can't wait to see how it will look all completed. I am almost done with the rough draft of the sequel. (Only two more chapters to go) Then comes the hard work of editing and polishing. Of course, it is possible that if this first book doesn't sell they won't want the sequel, in which case, I and my writer's group will be the only ones who know what happens next. (Raspberry, I promise to send you a copy, if that happens) The other story is coming along nicely as well. I can never seem to limit myself to one story at a time. They all team up on me, demanding a life of their own.

Sneak Peek of Cover Art

2009-06-27T08:23:00.000-07:00

The illustrator of my cover has posted a partial peek at the artwork for my book. If you click on the link below and scroll down the page, the last illustration on the most recent post is of a green girl underwater. You can only see part of her face but at least it will give you a feel of what it looks like.

http://tombagshaw.blogspot.com/2009/06/all-work-work-work.html

He says he will be posting the rest of picture soon.

YIPPPPPEEEEEEEEEE!!!!

2009-06-26T14:18:00.000-07:00

I am DONE.

D-O-N-E, done with revisions to my Forbidden Sea manuscript. YESSSSSSSS! *she does a few cartwheels, then does the moonwalk across the room*

Go, Sheila. Go, Sheila. *Pant, pant*

Okay, I'm calm now. No wait, got to do the funky chicken. Whew! Glad I got all of that out of my system.

I got a look at the artwork for my book's cover--it is GORGEOUS. Mr. Bagshaw has outdone himself this time. He has my mermaid from the waist up, with all her hair floating around her. She is beckoning to the viewer with one hand. I couldn't be more pleased. I've been so nervous about how it would turn out. The cover is everything when it comes to the sales of a book. I can't post a copy of the artwork on this blog yet because I don't own the copyright to the image, but as soon as Orchard Books puts out an official copy online I'll post a link here. Wait until you see it. It's just breathtaking. I can't wait to get my first box of advanced reader copies so I can start taking them to the local bookstores around here.

It's all coming together now--I just have to be patient a little longer. *Sigh*

When Inspiration Strikes

2009-06-09T09:25:00.000-07:00

I recently got a fantastic idea for a new story. I get a lot of these, but usually I write them down and put them aside for another day, usually after I’ve finished the current manuscript I’m working on. This one, however, would not be put aside. It has taken over at the moment, possessing my imagination day and night. My mom noticed I was preoccupied one day and wanted to know what was on my mind. When I told her it was a story she wanted to know what it was about. I was running late so she followed me around while I was gathering my things to leave. The more I told her, the more she pushed me for more and more of the story. When I got to the end of the story, she actually cried. “That’s a good story,” she said. “You’d better write it.” So I’ve given in and started writing the manuscript. We’ll see where it leads me. It’s a ghost story, and a little on the scary side but it has a great (romantic) ending, even if I do say so myself. Sorry Karlene, I’ll have to figure out a way to get it edited without bringing the scary parts to writer’s group.

The Best Writer's Group in the World

2009-05-28T16:33:00.001-07:00

One of the ladies in my fabulous writer's group just got a two book deal with Aladdin Books! I've read her manuscript in writer's group and it's a great story. Kristen Landon already has one book out called Life in the Pit. It's a teen novel with a touch of mystery and romance. (I'm in the acknowledgements, that practically make me famous.) Check out her book at your local library. If your library doesn't have it, request it to be purchased. Congratulations Kristen, may many more novels soon follow!

Cover Art!!!!

2009-05-19T15:13:00.000-07:00

My publisher has finally decided on a cover artist! I’m really excited about their choice. It was the one I was hoping for. His name is Tom Bagshaw. Click on the links below if you want to see some examples of his work.

http://www.mostlywanted.com/portfolio-book-1/treat/

http://www.mostlywanted.com/portfolio-book-1/falling/

http://www.mostlywanted.com/portfolio-book-1/forest-dreaming/

http://www.mostlywanted.com/portfolio-book-3/hush/

http://www.mostlywanted.com/portfolio-book-3/celestial-diva/

I think he will do a fantastic job of bringing my mermaid to life. I can’t wait to see the finial art! I turned in the revisions my editor asked for today. It will be a few weeks before I hear back from her--but I hope we are getting close to being finished soon. I’ll keep you all posted.

P.S. I’d love to hear everyone’s opinions of Tom Bagshaw's work in the comments—even if you hate him. : )