TerryLynnJohnson

Wolves and Bears and Contracts, oh my!

2012-01-20T17:06:00.000-08:00

Thought it's time to share the story of when I got my offer from Houghton Mifflin Harcourt.

And when you live in the middle of a wildlife preserve, most everything is a story...

dramatic recreation.

There were two publishers interested in making an offer for my YA novel, ICE DOGS. So we knew the date it was to happen. As you can imagine, I was a bit of a basket case that day.

Hubby was hanging around, not helping with the nerves, so before it all went down, I suggested he take the dog out for a walk.

At the exact moment the offer came in, I glanced out the window to see my dog running for her life down the driveway with a freaking Timber Wolf on her tail. The wolf got right to the bottom of the stairs of the deck before it wheeled around and ran off.

And my man was missing.

So forget about the fact I just had the offer of a lifetime, and all my dreams come true. Instead of celebrating, I had images of my man surrounded by a wolf pack somewhere.

I think my exact words were, "Gotta go... the wolves!"

Turns out, while on their relaxing walk, the dog spotted a bear with two cubs, began a chase that didn't really work out for her, and came running back to my Hubby. All Hubby saw was teeth coming at him.

He scrambled up the closest tree and stayed there to wait it out. The dog continued running home, and somehow picked up a wolf along the way. (I swear, I'm not making this up!)

So the dog got chased by a bear AND a wolf on the same walk!

Leave it to MY DOG to steal my thunder!

Ever wonder where deer sleep in a snowstorm?

2012-01-18T12:35:00.000-08:00

... on my snowshoe trail apparently!

We had a mother of a storm here yesterday. When I went snowshoeing today, I found these deer beds on my trail. You can see where they dug down, and then how much snow fell while they were all comfy in bed.

see the frozen indent made by the deer's leg in the middle of the bed?

What cool things have you found on your trail?

Weather fit for napping - or critting...

2012-01-15T16:17:00.000-08:00

photo credit here Nap how I want

It's minus thirty four wind chill outside. That's -34 C. Winter has arrived. And that means it's time for DOGSLED RACES!!!

Or napping.

Or writing.

And since I'm not doing any of those lately, I'd like to use this weather as an excuse to celebrate my good fortune of selling ICE DOGS to Houghton Mifflin Harcourt.

I didn't do it alone! I had lots of help. And so...

I'm offering to critique the first three YA or MG chapters of the first three people who comment.

Must let me know in the comment that you would like to take me up on the offer.
Either send me your email address, or leave it in the comments.
Must have chapters ready to send right away.
I'll send it back to you within three days of receiving your chapters.

edited: I had no idea that would go so fast! Sorry - offer is now expired. I have my ~~victims~~ volunteers already!

Michael
Sophia
Marcy
Angela

Send me your chapters!

I will absolutely do this again the next time I have a few days free.

Thanks everyone!

May B a good day

2012-01-10T12:26:00.000-08:00

HUGE congrats to my debut author buddy Caroline. At long last, her book comes out today!!

MAY B by Caroline Starr Rose

I watch the wagon
until I see nothing on the open plain.
For the first time ever,
I am alone.

Starred Review from Kirkus
Starred Review from Publisher's Weekly
Junior Library Guild Selection
Amazon Best Book of the Month for kids Selection

Also out today, another debut author buddy,

The Gathering Storm by Robin Bridges

What a good day for books!

Interview

2012-01-03T16:25:00.000-08:00

I'm over on fellow author Mindy McGinnis blog today Writer, Writer, Pants on Fire where I intelligently discuss writing goob.

Mindy and I both have books coming out in fall 2013. It's nice to have someone to wait with.

To add Mindy's book to your Goodreads list check it out, NOT A DROP TO DRINK.

Wolf Toy

2012-01-01T08:45:00.000-08:00

Had to do a quick post to show you what the wolves have been up to on the lake.

Bite marks on our bouy marker. Size comparison with our dog's toy.

We attached a new bouy this summer marking a log sticking out of the water on our lake. Once the lake froze, the bouy sat on top of the ice. It apparently looked like a new toy. The wolves ripped it off its rope, and played soccer with it across the lake.

We retrieved it this morning on our walk. The number of wolf tracks surrounding it looked like dozens of wolves had played the game , but we've only seen three - a spectacularly large and lush wolf with two smaller ones.

our lake view from the porch.

Now I want to tie more balls to the dock to watch the wolves come and play with them. I wonder if they like squeaky toys.

Happy New Year to everyone!

Best of 2011

2011-12-25T19:17:00.000-08:00

Favourite picture of the year. Sled Dog Central

Top Five reads

1. The Girl of Fire and Thorns by Rae Carson
2. The Dark and Hollow Places by Carrie Ryan
3. Prized by Caragh M. O'Brien
4. Anna Dressed in Blood by Kendare Blake
5. Between Shades of Gray by Ruta Sepetys

Dogsled Dreams book tour 2011. Dog race mascot came over to admire my books!

Top Five Things from this blog

1. This dogsledding video
2. My sled dogs
3. Best part of being an author - fan mail
4. Georgian Bay adventure
5 Announcing my book deal for Ice Dogs

Top Two Things from other people's blogs

1. Sandra Mitchell's post Eventually You'll Care Less
2. Tahereh Mafi on Being a Writer

What were some of your favourites this year?

Story Siren 2011

2011-12-19T19:38:00.000-08:00

What a year of reading! I completed my Goodreads reading challenge with 81 books! And 36 were debut's which also completes my Story Siren debut challenge.

I'm so thankful for being part of the amazing group The Elevensies. When I needed to share good news, or bad, they were there to talk me down. We supported and learned from each other, and I've made friends that will hopefully remain for my writing career.

A bonus of doing the debut challenge was it introduced me to books in genre's that I wouldn't normally read.

I've learned:

Dead people? - very very cool to read about! Especially if they are dressed in, you know... blood.
Ramadan? Yiddish? - I'm embarrassed to confess, I didn't really know much. But so glad to learn.
God Stones? - yeah, I'm a new and frothing fan of fantasy! Woo!
1941 in the Soviet Union? - reading Ruta's masterpiece rocked me to the core. It changed me.

Here's my 2011 debut list

1. The Trouble With Half a Moon by Danette Vigilante (MG)
2. Warped by Maurissa Guibord (YA)
3. Vesper by Jeff Sampson (YA)
4. XVI by Julia Karr (YA)
5. Unearthly by Cynthia Hand (YA)
6. Head Games by Keri Mikulski (YA)
7. Perilous by Tamara Hart Heiner (YA)
8. Across the Universe by Beth Revis (YA)
9. Rival by Sara Bennett Wealer (YA)
10. So Shelly by Ty Roth (YA)
11. Haven by Kristi Cook (YA)
12. The Iron Witch by Karen Mahoney (YA)
13. Clarity by Kim Harrington (YA)
14. How Lamar's Bad Prank Won Him a Bubba-Sized Trophy by Chrystal Allen (MG)
15. Illegal by Bettina Restrepo (YA)
16. Between Shades of Gray by Ruta Sepetys (YA)
17. The Lipstick Laws by Amy Holder (YA)
18. The Rotten Adventures of Zachary Ruthless by Allan Woodrow (MG)
19. OyMG by Amy Fellner Dominy (YA)
20. Moonglass by Jessi Kirby (YA)
21. Memento Nora by Angie Smibert (YA)
22. Divergent by Veronica Roth (YA)
23. Possession by Elana Johnson (YA)
24. Blood Magic by Tessa Gratton (YA)
25. Bestest. Ramadan. Ever. by Medeia Sherif (YA)
26. Dead Rules by Randy Russell (YA)
27. Wither by Lauren DeStafano (YA)
28. Vanished by Sheela Chari (MG)
29. End of the Line by Angela Cerrito (YA)
30. Popular by Alissa Grosso (YA)
31. The Near Witch by Victoria Schwab (YA)
32. Anna Dressed in Blood by Kendare Blake (YA)
33. With a Name Like Love by Tess Hilmo (MG)
34. My Very Unfairy Tale Life by Anna Staniszewski (MG)
35. Don't Expect Magic by Kathy McCullough (YA)
36. The Girl of Fire and Thorns by Rae Carson (YA)

Can't wait to get started on 2012!

Did you do this challenge? Which books rocked your world?

ICE DOGS announcement

2011-12-10T15:39:00.000-08:00

photo credit www.sleddogcentral.com

Today I finally get to spill the beans and tell you my exciting news.

I've been waiting impatiently to be able to share, but now that the day is here, I'm actually a bit lost for words.

Here's someone else's words.
Deals from Publisher's Marketplace:

Children's: Young Adult
Terry Lynn Johnson's ICE DOGS, in which a 15-year old dogsled racer and sled dog owner loses her way on a routine daytime outing with her dogs; with food gone and temperatures dropping, her survival and that of her dogs and the mysterious boy she meets in the woods, is up to her, to Ann Rider at Houghton Mifflin Harcourt Children's, for publication in Winter 2013, by Caryn Wiseman at Andrea Brown Literary Agency (world). caryn@andreabrownlit.com

My novel will be a real hardcover book in two years!!!

I cannot even begin to tell you how good this feels. My dream of being published with a big publisher has come true!! And I owe much to my amazing agent Caryn Wiseman of Andrea Brown Lit Agency.

also,

A GIGANTIC and GRATEFUL shout out to my long-suffering crit partner PAUL GRECI

who read the manuscript about 608 times without complaint.
He is beyond awesome. He is also a spectacular, uber talented writer.

Really, a writer's most important tool is her critique partners. I also have to thank

Sue Kay Quinn
Kendare Blake
Medeia Sharif
Cynthia Chapman Willis

also my good friend, and not even a writer Jackie White who keeps me grounded with her honesty.

I also owe a debt to the good friends I have made this year at the ELEVENSIES

See the village of support I have? I am one lucky writer! And now, thanks to my support team, I am soon to be a Houghton Mifflin Harcourt author.

2012 Debut reading challenge

2011-11-16T05:28:00.001-08:00

Have you signed up for this challenge? The Story Siren has the deets.

I am still doing the 2011 reading challenge. See my list here. I'm up to 33!

This is the place I'll be listing books read for 2012 challenge. There's a bucket load of fantastic books coming out next year that I can't wait for!

I'm listing the books I definitely plan to read. Then I'll go from there.

1. May B by Caroline Starr Rose
2. The Gathering Storm by Robin Bridges
3. Chained by Lynne Kelly
4. Shadows Cast by Stars by Katherine Knutsson
5. Under the Never Sky by Veronica Rossi
6. Incarnate by Jodi Meadows
7. Time Between Us by Tamara Ireland Stone
8. Lies Beneath by Anne Greenwood Brown

Hatchet cake

2011-11-05T14:56:00.000-07:00

I couldn't resist sharing these photos with you.

My friend Christine Selinger and her son have done something that I think deserves some kind of award. Her son's favourite book is Hatchet by Gary Paulsen, and for his school project, Chris decided they should use cake. Yes, this is totally edible, and indeed, was eaten that very day by the class.

Four handmade cakes, two different kinds of homemade icing, jello, three different kinds of brown sugar for the sand, all adds up to one enormously creative ode to a great book.

If you've read the book, you'll recognize items in the model. Turtle eggs. The sinking plane. Berries. The skunk. Moose, wolf, bear. The cave. Is this seriously cool or what? What do you think? Mom of the Year Award material?

close up

Front view

back view

the cake artists

Any other books made into a cake out there?

Scat messaging

2011-10-19T14:48:00.000-07:00

This is the message I received this morning from our new neighbours

click to view in all its glory

Right at the end of our driveway - an impressive pile of wolf poop. And I mean a PILE. This can't be from just one animal, therefore this required a community effort. What does this message mean?

We're big so don't mess with us.
This is the line into our territory. You own the driveway, we own the rest.
Hello there, dear neighbours, here's our card. Call us.
We know you are dogsitting a tasty little morsel of a Chihuahua right now.

The past few days we've had lots of wolf excitement. One evening I looked out the window in time to see the dog running for her life onto the deck with a huge brown timber wolf on her tail. The wolf came right to the bottom of the stairs before he noticed me standing there, and then wheeled around and took off down the driveway.

Two nights ago the dogs and I were walking in the dark and found ourselves in the middle of the pack taking down a deer. We didn't see anything, but the noises surrounding us had me hustling home with my feeble little headlamp frantically scanning around behind us. In the morning we found the evidence of a fight to the finish. The tracks told the story of how the wolves went around downwind, and then launched the attack. The deer went down, got up, went down again. We have many, many deer in our area, so it must be a good spot for the wolves to hang for a while.

flickerCC

In the evenings, the pack sings. They sometimes wake us in the middle of the night. They obviously have some pups who can't sing yet, but try to make up for it by being the loudest. Sled dog pups do this too. It's hilarious to listen to.

Any wolf stories out there? Anyone care to decipher to scat code?

Fall training insider

2011-10-18T05:53:00.000-07:00

If you like dogsledding, check out the 2011 Iditarod Fall E-runner. It's full of pre-race stories and great pictures of the amazing sled dogs and how they get geared up for the big race.

Giving thanks and announcing winners

2011-10-10T11:46:00.000-07:00

Happy Thanksgiving to everyone!

I have much to be thankful for:

my man
my job
my dogs
my home
my health
my family
my ability to smell when the milk is about to turn. It's a gift really.

and the most recent huge thing I'm thankful for, I can't talk about yet. Please stay tuned.

Now, on to the winners of my recent Elevensie Celebration Giveaway:

Winner of the YA package is Lucy D'Andrea

Winner of the MG package is Irene Latham

Winner of the MIXED BAG package is Angel Cruz

So, what do you have to be thankful for today?

Cover Love

2011-10-07T19:33:00.000-07:00

A recent new blog I found, CE HART's post on covers has inspired me.

I LOVE book covers. I could wallpaper a room with some of the delicious art that is wrapped around books. Give me a cup of Starbucks Chai Latte and let me loose to wander around Chapters. Bliss.

I will admit to purchasing many just because of the cover.

Here are some of them:

and these:

But really, my all time favourite cover, the one that stopped me in my tracks as I was trying to leave a bookstore, was this beauty:

Have you ever discovered a new favourite author because the cover drew you in?

Six sentence Sunday

2011-10-02T07:31:00.000-07:00

I'm jumping in to the six sentence meme.

Here's six from my own novel DOGSLED DREAMS, published by 4RV December, 2010

Chunks of ice flew off the dogs' feet and bounced on Rebecca's chest. Sometimes, more than just ice flew back.The dogs were trained to poop while they ran, as all racing sled dogs are. Rebecca kept watch for brown missiles flying in her direction. She made sure to keep her mouth closed.

Don't forget to enter my giveaway - two weeks left!

End of Summer Elevensies Giveaway

2011-09-10T08:54:00.000-07:00

It's that time again, where I celebrate my good fortune of getting published by giving away books!

I'm sharing the FABULOUSNESS that is the 2011 debut author group THE ELEVENSIES. (seriously, go check out all the amazing books. I can't believe I know these writers)

This time I'm going completely nuts giving away books in BULK. There are three packages up for grabs - some are bonus books. All you have to do is tell me which collection of books you'd like. I know, I know, the choice is TOO HARD! But life is full of choices, as all the protags in these stories demonstrate. You will just have to pick.

rules:

fill out the form (make sure you fill out your email, dudes! You are hard to track down.)
no need to follow (but I'd love if you did)
ends October 10, 2011 (which is Thanksgiving, Canada style)

On to the books:

THE ECLECTIC ELEVENSIES YOUNG ADULT COLLECTION:

Unearthly by Cynthia Hand
OyMG by Amy Fellner Dominy
The End of the Line by Angela Cerrito
The Near Witch by Victoria Schwab
Popular by Alissa Grosso
Thirteen Reasons Why by Jay Asher (signed copy!)

(yes, Jay Asher is not an Elevensie, but it's a pretty awesome book)

THE MARVELOUS MIDDLE GRADE COLLECTION:

*Vanished by Sheela Chari
*With a Name Like Love by Tess Hilmo
When the Whistle Blows by Fran Cannon Slayton (signed copy!)
Plain Kate by Erin Bow
The Phantom Tollbooth by Norton Juster
When You Reach Me by Rebecca Stead

*Elevensie
BONUS: included in this package you get stickers and bookmarks of the upcoming middle grade novel

MAY B by Caroline Starr Rose

Caroline is a peach of a lady (wait, not peach. She deserves more than a cliche. I don't even like biting into one of those - too much fuzz. It should be something really yummy like watermelon. Yeah, Caroline is a seedless watermelon) I can't wait for January 2012 when this novel in verse to comes out!

THE MIXED BAG OF MERMAIDS, MONSTERS, AND OTHER WONDERFULLY WEIRD THINGS COLLECTION:

The Lightning Thief by Rick Riordan
The Sea of Monsters by Rick Riordan
Seven Tears into the Sea by Teri Farley (signed copy!)
Unwind by Neil Shusterman
Ingo by Helen Dunmore
Real Mermaids Don't Wear Toe Rings by Helene Boudreau

Please fill out the form here

edit: hey, I forgot to ask for your blog addy. If you have one, stick it on there so I can visit. Or comment on the post!

Lake Superior Park kayak trip

2011-09-02T09:03:00.000-07:00

I'm back from another awesome expedition. This time to the remote, wild coast of Lake Superior. The official Park description:

Along the eastern shore of Lake Superior is a landscape like no other. A succession of massive headlands disappears into a shining expanse of water, forming a rugged coast that stretches farther than the eye can see. The world's largest fresh water lake - deep, cold, beautiful, myth-inspiring.

Gitche Gumee slept for most of our trip allowing us to get up close to the magnificient towering cliffs and spectacular pictographs. Here's a few shots, but of course, the photos don't do it justice. Most days we planned the headlands to avoid the afternoon winds, so the sun wasn't right for good pictures. I wish everyone could experience actually being there and witness the power of nature.

Click any photo to view larger.

checking out the pictographs on the rock

heading to the Devil's Warehouse where ancient scrolls were kept in a cave

Denis contemplating the Devil's Chair, where the giant supposedly rested after stepping over the lake

self portrait of the coast

Denis checking out one of many sea caves

my view from the tent couldn't be better. Cliffs aren't bad either

three cedars growing together from rock

Only a few moments of pure terror with some interesting crossings. And an unceremonious dumping and thorough pounding of one wet Terry under a rolling surf in the first three minutes of the trip. Yeah, welcome to Superior.

What grand adventures did you have this summer? Tell me about how the simple power of the outdoors filled you up.

Three days left

2011-09-02T06:32:00.000-07:00

Thought I'd pass along this insider scoop. The 2011 Iditarod summer raffle has 2000 tickets to sell, and they've only sold half of them. And the draw is in three days! Good odds.

Do you want to help support Iditarod 2012? How about a chance to win one of two grand prize trucks. Check it out here.

Great recent reads

2011-07-23T07:51:00.000-07:00

As you can see by the photos I've been posting, I've had a busy summer. But now that I'm home, I'm back to reading every spare moment. Here's a quick review of some great books:

DEAD RULES by Randy Russell

LOVE this book!Complex characters where no one is as they first seem. And loved the crazy humour - real left-field things that had me laughing out loud. Kept me surprised, entertained and frustrated throughout.

Possession by Elana Johnson

Very creative! A whole new world for the reader to enjoy. Action junkies take note. And features a hard-core female mc.

Divergent by Veronica Roth

A wild, wild ride! Brilliant. Every page had tension. AMAZING READ!

BLOOD MAGIC by Tessa Gratton

Loved the romance bits of this story. Such great characters! Mystery, romance, magic and suspense all wrapped together. Creepy and addictive. I read this a while ago, but it has stuck in my head. A good sign!

Bestest. Ramadan. Ever. by Medeia Sherif

Great characters here. Especially Grandpa! I love to read books where I learn something new, and I must confess to not really knowing what Ramadan was. Funny and touching and brought me back to highschool and all the drama and problems of those tender years. Medeia is a contemporary Judy Blume!

Merle's Door: lessons from a free-thinking dog by Ted Kerasote (non-fiction)

Okay, as far as dog books go - this is a MUST READ! I feel changed.

Black Star Bright Dawn. by Scott O'Dell

Scott O'Dell. Need I say more? Great stuff here, of course. I bow down.

Watch for my next ELEVENSIES giveaway this fall where some of these books and more will be up for grabs.
What great books have you read recently?

Georgian Bay Adventure

2011-07-17T10:12:00.000-07:00

The second part of our vacation included an epic 315 km paddle around Georgian Bay that took 8 days.

yes, that's my thumb. Hubby at Flowerpot Island.

When we crossed Lake Huron to South Bay Mouth, I was extremely nervous. For two hours until I calmed down, I gripped my paddle so hard that I injured myself. My fingers would hardly work for a day and half afterwards! But it felt great to have done it!

Excerpt of famous moment on trip. Bruce Penninsula. 8pm.

Hubby - Does that sound like a boat coming our way?

Me - Nope. We're all clear.

*strips down to bathe in the lake after 12 hours of paddling in the hot sun. Stands naked balancing on rocks and boulders in ankle-deep water.

Me - AAUUGH!! It's a boat. RIGHT THERE!!!

*sneaky boat moving very slowly appears around the corner 30 meters away.

Hubby - It's a TOUR boat! Full of tourists!!

Me - My shirt! For the love of all that is holy, throw me my shirt!!

*crouches awkwardly as the boat loaded with at least 50 people on the fly bridge, chugs along the shoreline for unobstructed, glorious view of the rock cliffs which we are camped on. And naked.

Hubby - They have cameras

Me - yes. I see that.

Hubby - they're waving.

*hubby waves back. The boat finally passes. We giggle for the rest of the evening. "Does that sound like a boat", becomes the phrase of the week.

Anyhoo, here are a few more photos - but don't worry, all fully clothed. As usual, click on any photo to view larger.

5:45 am

flat calm day! My kayak just flying

look at the roots in the water!

checking out the charts during a snack break

Cove Island Lighthouse

surprised a family of otters. mom and two young.

Does anyone else have a vacation story to share?

Newfoundland Adventure

2011-07-13T15:10:00.000-07:00

Back from vacation!

Hubby on Gros Morne Mountain

Highlights:

saw 28 moose
hiked over 60 km
heard a calf moose being eaten by a bear
one day of sun in Newfoundland! Fog - wind - freezing cold nights in tent!
trees on northern penninsula don't even have leaves yet!
STUNNING, amazing place. Can't wait to go back
paddled 315 km around Georgian Bay
LOTS of sun
got caught naked by a boat full of tourists

I hope to get back to blogging soon. In the mean time, here's a few photos of Newfoundland. Kayak photos to come next post.

Me and hubby having FUN

Book research - adventure awaits

2011-06-15T19:33:00.000-07:00

I've been absent the last few weeks. Thanks for your patience. (here's a sampling of last year's never-before-seen reasons for said absences.)

We're about to head out on another epic adventure (aka book research) of hiking and kayaking. I'll be back next month with photos and tales of wonder.

In the meanwhile, you want to head over to DAWN METCALF's giveaway celebrating the release of her debut LUMINOUS.

Giveaway Winners

2011-06-01T04:30:00.000-07:00

It's time to announce the winners of the epic ELEVENSIES DEBUT BOOK GIVEAWAY!! This has been my most popular contest with over 100 entries!!!

And WOW! Hello to all my new followers! Thank you for helping me break 300! How awesome of you to join us. Hope you don't mind blackflies because we are in the thick of them here at the moment. But relief is found out in the kayaks, so expect more expedition photos soon.

On to the winners.

Winner of OyMG by Amy Fellner Dominy is

Amanda of Read a book a day

Winner of Clarity by Kim Harrington is

Krystal of Stellar Book Blog

Winner of Moonglass by Jessi Kirby is

Brittany Gale

Winner of Memento Nora by Angie Smibert is

Christie H.

Winner of The Lipstick Laws by Amy Holder is

Joli of Actin Up With Books

Winner of The Rotten Adventures of Zachary Ruthless by Allan Woodrow is

Tiffany Fallick

Congrats to all the winners. If you didn't win, stick around because we'll do this again with another batch of ELEVENSIE DEBUT's next season.

Another round of Elevensies book giveaway

2011-05-24T03:24:00.000-07:00

I'm joining a blog hop for the Splash into Summer book giveaway. Hosted by I am a Reader, Not a Writer. There are almost 300 blogs participating, so click on some linkage.

This contest will be posted for one week. SIX Winners announced on June 1, 2011

Now, onto the BOOKS!! All books by my fabulous debut author group THE ELEVENSIES. Go check us out. Great reads for everyone.

My Mini Reviews:

OyMG by Amy Dominy
One of my favourite reads of the year. LOVED these characters, especially Ellie. What a fantastic role model. Amy Fellner Dominy is a master of naturally flowing dialogue. Made me want to stand up and fist pump. Now I have a sudden urge to make matzo ball soup. Oy.

Moonglass by Jessi Kirby
GORGEOUS! Not only is the cover stunningly beautiful, but the writing is as well. Almost every page I found myself saying, "isn't that true!" I had to keep reading to see what Anna would do next. Smart and quiet in all the right places.

Clarity by Kim Harrington
Loved the setting! Loved the main character's witty thoughts. Loved the mystery, suspense, romance, ALL of it!

Memento Nora by Angie Smibert
A fascinating and scary look at the future. Slick and fast paced dystopian. Confession: I have a slight crush on Micah.

Zachary Ruthless by Allan Woodrow
hilariously creative ways to be evil - Zachary Ruthless and his henchman are super fun.

The Lipstick Laws by Amy Holder
A light and fun read. The voice of the protagonist grabbed me right away. HILARIOUS!

Rules:

1. Fill out the form HERE. And tell me which book you most desire.
2. I would love it if you clicked my follow button, but not required.
3. I would love it if you checked out my own book DOGSLED DREAMS, but not required.

Best of the SCBWI conference Canada East

2011-05-18T09:24:00.000-07:00

I'm still in mourning that the conference is OVER. What a weekend! With only 45 seats available, there was a casual, intimate vibe that I just loved! The whole thing ran smoothly thanks to the super-human efforts of the organizer Jackie Paynaert. This woman is vivacious, hilarity and you should go check out her blog right now!

Only thing I regret - why, WHY do I always forget to take PHOTOS at these events? Sorry, I got nothing. But I feel strongly blog posts must have photos so here is a random shot of my man on our expedition last year.

So, here's the Cole's notes version of some of the brillance that resonated with me at the conference:

Terri Farley - author of the Stallion series
on why we write

"we can help kids feel lke they have a part in the world"
"families aren't perfect. Books show kids that's normal"
Mine your own childhood for horror - "crawl back into the skin of the child that you were - there are plenty of lessons there"
our job as story tellers is to "hold back the darkness for kids."

Veronica Rossi - author of the upcoming series the Never Sky
on high concept

write the back flap of the book first. This keeps you focused on what the heart of the story is.
make a list of ten things that could happen to your character. Avoid the first three. The last two ideas are probably the best
high concept = a short log line

template for log line

After (inciting incident) a (character description) must (primary action) or risk (stakes) in order to (end goal)

Sydney Salter - author of My Big Nose and Other Natural Disasters
on writing believable characters

"take time to let the characters reflect after a dramatic event before going to the next plot point. It will add weight to the story. A pause alerts the reader that they've changed."
"Let the character return to a place where something important happened and reflect how they see things differently now." LOVE THIS
TIPS - read Teen magazines: answer the quiz as your character to get to know her. Study the body language in the sections "is he into you?". Read the excerpts of most embarrasing moments - can make interesting back story for your secondary characters.

edit: stole this photo from Sydney's facebook post.

Faculty, left to right - Veronica Rossi, Terri Farley, Hillary Vandusen, Josh Adams, Sydney Salter, Fran Cannon Slayton

ALSO, here's my signed loot I brought home!

Off to the conference!

2011-05-11T14:05:00.000-07:00

I'll be back next week with the goods on the SCBWI Canada East writing conference in Niagra Falls. I'm SOOO excited to be meeting and talking to real live writers!

A whole weekend surrounded by people who understand:

the amount of brownies required when one goes out on submission
the obsessive compulsion to check emails 59 times per day
the need to write down that brilliant epiphany at 2:30 am for the scene you've been struggling with
the surreptitious use of a notebook while driving your teenager and her friends to a party

Yay for writing conferences!

Okay, and I simply must post this hilarious bit of talking dog.

Confession

2011-04-28T15:25:00.000-07:00

I feel the need to confess something a little decadent. Today, I had the WHOLE day to write. And I wrote a total of ONE paragraph. I then spent the rest of the day shopping for books on line.

Shameful. Shameful. Shameful!

In my defense - it was raining outside and I'm about to go canoe camping for three days. I just didn't feel like getting wet. Oh, wait, that's not much of a defense for not writing.

Anyway.

now a little grin creeps across my face as I show what I bought....

I also bought several more on my KOBO reader!

Lots of Elevensies love here. I LOVE my fantastic group of debut authors!!! I've also just finished reading a few more fabulous Elevensies which will all be featured in my next installment of ELEVENSIES GIVEAWAYS. Stay tuned.

The Windup Girl was a must after reading SHIP BREAKER. Words cannot describe how much I loved that book!

And I know, it's about time I read Black Star, Bright Dawn. Especially considering Scot O'Dell is one of my favourite authors. To be honest, I've been a little shy to read it, but I was feeling brave today.

Okay, so anyone else have an uncontrollable book purchasing problem? Help me out here.

Winner of Ice-out contest!

2011-04-27T12:29:00.000-07:00

winter didn't want to end this year

Today at the lake, we finally have a winner for the ice-out contest thanks to the dump of rain last night. The ice has been holding out in one corner of the lake for the last four days

stubborn ice in the bays

But today - YAY! Ice-free and ready for summer!

Just in time for our canoe instructor course this weekend! Went paddling two days ago and gingerly tested the temperatures. Let's just say I hope the canoe rescue portion will be quick since I'll be IN THE LAKE.

So.

We have a winner! Winning guess of April 27 at 12:34. (can I borrow your crystal ball?)

VIVIEN!!

And the prize is....

Thanks to everyone for playing along!

note: I guessed the 25 so I lost our family bet this year.

Dead things my dog brings home

2011-04-21T10:12:00.000-07:00

Images from our hike today:

And here's our lake during the snowstorm and after

As you can see - the lake is half open! Guesses for the ice-out contest are now closed. I'll be posting the exact date and time soon I think - and the winner!

Dead things

Today on our hike, my dog found a half a rabbit. The bottom half. This led me to ponder the events that would have taken place for a half a rabbit to be left in the bush. Tragic and dramatic stories tossed around in my head until I could write them down when I got back. Inspiration for writing is all around me.

A half a rabbit isn't the only thing my dog has found lately. This winter she was obsessed with a chickadee that had unfortunately broken its neck on our window. Tanzer sat with it in the snow - even brought it on our walks for three days.

I'm never surprised to see her trotting out of the bush, head held high, with a deer leg danging from her mouth. We live in the middle of a winter deer yard, and where there are deer, there are wolves.

Dead frogs, dead ruffed grouse, stinky dead things I didn't even recognize.

What has your dog brought home lately?

Guess ice-out contest

2011-04-14T07:19:00.000-07:00

An annual tradition at my house is to guess the date that the lake will break free from its long winter nap. This year I thought I'd invite everyone to join for a chance to win a mystery prize. (It involves a book.)

Leave a comment with your best guess of date and time for ice-out. Good luck!

ALSO: happiness is... finding your book listed in THE BIGGEST HITS OF THE YEAR in Trends in MG at the Write Angle!

Beavers

2011-04-07T08:15:00.000-07:00

Busy writing!

To entertain you while I'm away, here's a very cool vid of a couple of animals in Alberta that know what it's like to be busy.

Little known fact:
I'm not sure I would have noticed if it had not been pointed out to me, that all three of my manuscripts have beavers in them. Hmmm...

Good books and a writing conference

2011-03-31T06:16:00.000-07:00

random photo from last summer because I've started counting down days till kayak season

Each year around this time I start hearing about amazing writing conferences, and writers getting together and partying and having FUN and I get a little jealous. Well, I've just signed up for the SCBWI Canada East conference in Niagra Falls, Ontario. The price is amazing and I've never been to Niagra Falls. I'm so excited!

Is anyone else going? I'd love to hear from you!

I'm hoping this will inspire me again to do more writing. I have been on a hiatus, but doing lots of READING. I'd like to recommend some fabulous books:

Between Shades of Gray by Ruta Sepetys.

Ever read a book that changes you?
This book did for me, and blew my mind with brilliant writing. Such an important story and Ruta tells it beautifully with characters that are so memorable, they feel like family. I was mesmerized from page one. And have I mentioned the WRITING? This author can WRITE!

Illegal by Bettina Restrepo.

A story of struggle and desperate times, but somehow written with a feeling of hope. I'm left with a deep gratitude for all that I have. Beautifully written.

How Lamar's Bad Prank Won a Bubba-Sized Trophy by Crystal Allen.

Such a delightful read! Lamar is charming and vulnerable and tough and sensitive and hilarious. Crystal managed to make me laugh, then cry, sometimes on the same page. Loved it.

A few of my sled dogs

2011-03-28T04:34:00.000-07:00

Today I woke to find Susan Fields had reviewed my book, DOGSLED DREAMS on her blog. WOW! I'm so happy that she enjoyed the book. And so did her kids! Susan mentioned how much she liked it when I posted a picture of one of my real dogs from the book. Here's a few more.

Doppler with some admirerers

Tarzan - unfortunately I don't have any pictures with him smiling

Doppler (bottom), Ulu, (left) and Orbit (smiling) as pups in the dog truck

On the stake out line at camp. Denali is the big white guy carefully not sitting on his straw

giving rides. Apollo and Soho in lead

Fall training. Blaze in lead. Doppler and Tarzan in point. Ulu and Apollo in Swing (or Team position). Orbit and Belle in Team. Elsie and Denali in Wheel

Elsie

dogs howling on the stake out line

Amazing dogs - amazing race

2011-03-23T14:34:00.000-07:00

Must watch videos of Iditarod dogs in action from the official Iditarod Insider site.

Montage ONE

Montage TWO

Do these videos bring a lump to your throat? For some reason, I get very emotional watching how gorgeous and true the dogs are. And the dramatic music caps it.

ELEVENSIE BOOK GIVEAWAY winners!

2011-03-17T21:12:00.000-07:00

WOW! I'm thrilled at how popular this contest was. ELEVENSIE BOOKS are feeling the love.

I'll be doing another mega contest for Elevensie books in the summer as I continue my pay-it-forward project.

And now I have even more reason to be thankful - my publisher has just informed me that DOGSLED DREAMS is the best selling title the company has had! THANK YOU to everyone who has helped support me!

The following people have won

Jackie White has won a copy of UNEARTHLY

Pamela Green has won a copy of THE IRON WITCH

Donna Earnhardt has won a copy of HEAD GAMES

Bethany has won a copy of SO SHELLY

Deb Marshall has won a copy of HAVEN

Mindy Crump has won a copy of RIVAL

YAY to the winners!

and the bonus books:

Rose Green has won a copy of A TRUE AND FAITHFUL NARRATIVE

Meredith Miller has won a copy of DOG GONE

Sherrie Peterson has won a copy of PERILOUS

Congratulations everyone. Make sure you check back for more contests and outdoor fun and photos!

Congratulations Amy Fellner Dominy!

2011-03-15T17:21:00.000-07:00

My beautiful and talented friend, fellow Elevensie, and agent sister, Amy Fellner Dominy author of the upcoming OyMG, Walker and Company, May 2011, has sold her second teen novel!

Publisher's Marketplace announcement:

Author of the forthcoming OyMG, Amy Fellner Dominy's AUDITION AND SUBTRACTION, in which a 14-year-old girl faces competition in her school band from the new boy, who could take away not only her spot in District Honor Band, but also her best friend in a story of shifting friendships, divided loyalties and unexpected romance, again to Stacy Cantor Abrams at Walker, for publication in Fall 2012, by Caryn Wiseman at Andrea Brown Literary Agency (world).

YAY AMY!!!!

SNOW! and other things almost as awesome

2011-03-12T07:50:00.000-08:00

We've been hit with snow this week - little late for the two dogsled races that had to be cancelled, but just in time for March Break.

Tanzer on watch

"would you get off the blog and come snowshoeing already!"

about 30 cm more yesterday!

GOOD BOOKS

I haven't been writing as much recently, but I call this time in between "percolating". I'm also doing lots of reading. GREAT books lately. Here's a few paranormal suggestions:

Paranormalcy by Kiersten White

Haven by Kristi Cook

Unearthly by Cynthia Hand

Captivate by Carrie Jones

Delirium by Lauren Oliver

Forgive my Fins by Tera Lynn Childs

Warped by Maurissa Guibord

And a story that I LOVED - one of my absolute favourite reads - I can't even talk about. It's a manuscript by my fabulous critique partner, Paul Greci.

Have you ever read a manuscript that you were so excited about you just wanted to tell the world?

BOOK TOUR

Lastly, I will be in CHAPTERS bookstore in Sudbury this Wednesday for a presentation and signing. Please come by and say hello if you can!

An Iditarod story

2011-03-06T08:45:00.000-08:00

Several years ago, I handled for a musher in the Iditarod, Stan Zoray. For me, being in Anchorage surrounded by dogs and mushers was a little like going to the red carpet for the Academy Awards. So many famous mushers! Everywhere I turned, OMG - there's Dee Dee Jonrowe! There's Charlie Boulding! I even managed to get a picture of me standing beside my favourite author and musher, Dave Olsen. (except at the exact moment the photographer snapped the picture, Dave's dogs needed his attention, and he bent down to them. So I proudly show my photo of me and Dave Olsen's butt)

Fellow blogger Kim Kircher was lucky enough to be at the ceremonial start of the Iditarod yesterday in Anchorage, Alaska. Check out her awesome post about the sites and stories

To follow the teams, or to read more, go check out the Iditarod Official Website. Or for indepth coverage including the actual start today in Wasilla at 2pm check out Eye on the Trail.

Best part of being an author, and a challenge

2011-03-03T05:58:00.000-08:00

First, I have to show you what I watched this morning while having breakfast:

My dog watched for a while, then shrugged her shoulders and went back to her squeaky toy. She's seen this show before.

Now, allow me to share with you what I think is the best part of being an author. Here are a few awesome emails I've been receiving from young readers of DOGSLED DREAMS.
note: some are editted to take out spoilers and I've replaced the name with the first initial

Dear Ms Johnson,

I really liked your book "Dogsled Dreams" and really liked how you described the characters. My favourite dog would be Apollo, because I think Apollo is a good dog.
I thought the book was REALLY FUNNY, interesting, and sometimes surprising. Sincerely J (gr. 5/6)

Dear Ms. Johnson,
I loved your book Dogsled Dreams. the dogs love running and stuff like that. I would love to try dogsledding. It sounds fun.
It was funny when the teacher slipped and landed on the pups’ pee. And I’m just like Rebeca I do those things and say those words !
Sincerely,
B

Dear Ms. Johnson,
I love your book "Dogsled Dreams". I thought your characters were fun and adventurous.
My favourite characters in "Dogsled Dreams" are Rebecca, Apollo, Rebecca’s dog team and Rebecca’s dad. But my favourite character would have to be Rebecca. She was exiting!
I probably like her so much because I am a girl too!
I liked it because of the thrill. It made me nervous exited and worried.
From,
K Grade 6

Dear Ms. Johnson,
I loved your book Dogsled Dreams sooooo much. I think it is the best book our teacher has read so far. I am going to read all your books.
My favourite dog is Doppler it is also Rebecca’s favourite dog. The book is so funny, I really liked the part when Rebecca and her dad went to the school to show the dogs to little kids and the dogs ran outside the classroom and to the hallway and one of the dog peed in the hallway and made the teacher slip, that was hilarious.
I think you write awesome books and I cant wait to read them all.
Sincerely, Y Grade 5

Dear Ms. Johnson,
I loved your book, Dog Sled Dreams. My favourite part was when the teacher slipped on the pile of pee. It was so funny. Your book was so cool. I loved it so much because it also had humor. One thing is that I hate Robin, she is so bad.
Sincerely,
S Grade 5

Dear Ms. Johnson,.
I thought your book was interesting, EXTREMELY funny, and sometimes surprising.
My favourite part is when Rebecca and her dad brought the puppies to school and they went to the bathroom on the floor. Then the teacher slipped and landed in the puddle the puppy made.
My favourite dogs are Tarzan, Doppler, Apollo, and Blaze.
Do you actually have a dog named Apollo? And do you race dogs yourself?
Your #1 fan
E. Grade 5

LOVE ALL OF THESE! And yes, Emma, Apollo was my leader for many years. Here he is:

And finally, I know I've already posted a cell phone pict, but please indulge me again. And to make it worth your while - here's a challenge -

if you find my book in your own bookstore, send me a photo and I'll send you a YA or MG book. Simple as that!

And so - a few pictures that I can't stop looking at and grinning:

Cole's bookstore. bottom left - that's me!

Chapters bookstore - holy crap!!!

Don't forget to enter my Insanely Mega giveaway. Nine winners! Nine fabulous books up for grabs.

Giant huskies, flying toilet seats, and a little moment

2011-02-27T18:16:00.000-08:00

This weekend I went to the Cannington Sled Dog Races. Sadly, the actual race was cancelled due to lack of snow. But the festival drew huge crowds - about 5,000 hardy souls participating in events like the grapefruit fling, big-foot obstacle course, and the toilet seat toss. (I mean, really, if you can't have fun with a toilet seat, you may as well stay home.)

I managed to find a stray mutt wandering around and lured him over with cookies.

Cannington Sled Dog Races mascot poses with DOGSLED DREAMS

The Brock Library event went well. I brought along a dogsled, harnesses, dog booties, gangline, musher gear, and lots of stories. At the end of the presentation, three little boys approached and asked me to sign their booklets, and one showed off his new knowledge by naming all the dog positions in the team. He was listening! It completely made my day.

And the weekend just kept getting better. On my way home, I stopped in at Chapter's Bookstore and found my book. Face out. On the shelf. What a moment that was!

cell phone picture. Little fuzzy. But real.

And the placement isn't too shabby either! Look at the little book I'm sharing shelf space with!

Thank you everyone, for all your suggestions for my library reading! Two more stops left.

Northern living

2011-02-22T18:20:00.000-08:00

It was Family Day yesterday - a new holiday. And what better way to spend it than going to the city to skate on the lake?

One little detail - it was minus thirty-two with the windchill.

cold noses, warm hearts

So you would think that we'd be the only crazy family out there - but no. This is northern Ontario! There were many people out - playing hockey or just getting blown around. The skate up the lake was challenging, but the ride coming back down with the wind at your back was FUN!

And more fun: I'll be heading to CANNINGTON, Ontario this weekend for another sled dog race and book signing of DOGSLED DREAMS. I'm also doing a talk/reading at the Brock Library on Friday, Feb. 25.

THIS time, I hope to have photos/video to share when I get back.

Don't forget to enter my Mega Elevensies Book Giveaway in the post below!

Insanely Mega Elevensies Debut Giveaway

2011-02-15T05:02:00.000-08:00

My debut DOGSLED DREAMS, has been out for six weeks. I'm grateful to those who have helped spread the word or took the time to review it on Goodreads, blogs, or at Amazon sites. I'm also feeling blessed to be receiving amazing emails from readers that touch my heart. YOU are definitely the best part of being an author!

I want to give back.

So. Up for grabs

HAVEN by Kristi Cook
SO SHELLY by Ty Roth
RIVAL by Sara Bennett Wealer
UNEARTHLY by Cynthia Hand
THE IRON WITCH by Karen Mahoney
HEAD GAMES by Keri Mikulski

DEBUT BOOKS FROM THE ELEVENSIES

I feel guilty that other ELEVENSIE DEBUT books I've purchased are on my beloved KOBO reader. Sadly, I've just discovered the one downside of my ereader, and that is I can't share the fabulous books from it.

But seriously, you need to read:

WARPED by Maurissa Guilbord

VESPER by Jeff Sampson

XVI by Julia Karr

ACROSS THE UNIVERSE by Beth Revis

TROUBLE WITH HALF A MOON by Dannette

To make up for these missing books, I'm going to also giveaway the following

PERILOUS by Tamara Hart Heiner

DOG GONE by Cynthia Chapman Willis

A TRUE AND FAITHFUL NARRATIVE by Katherine Sturtevant

Rules:

Not many rules. I just want to try to get these great books into the hands of readers. NINE winners!

1. Please fill out your preferences in the entry form. I'll look at the entries and try to match you with your book choice. If more than one person wants one title, I'll do a random draw for that title.

2. You don't have to be a follower, or have read my own book, DOGSLED DREAMS, but it would be lovely if you did!

3. Please tweet, blog, or facebook about this contest. Again, not necessary, but nice.

4. Open to Canadian and US residents. Closes March 18.

CLICK HERE TO ENTER

EDIT NOTE: Like a norbert, I accidentally left a "sample question" on the end of the entry form, and I just wanted to say I'm loving the random comments I'm getting on there. You guys are so creative!
Write whatever you want in there or leave blank.

Maxwell Medallion of Excellence

2011-02-13T17:59:00.000-08:00

Big announcement!

I've been notified that I have won FIRST PLACE in the Dog Writers Association of America covetted awards

The MAXWELL MEDALLION OF EXCELLENCE

I am truly honoured. (okay, and freaking PUMPED that it's from the DOG writers association)

A fellow Dogs in Canada Magazine writer accepted the award on my behalf at the Annual Awards Banquet in New York at the Affina Manhattan hotel.

book signing update - Dogsled Races

2011-02-07T14:18:00.000-08:00

MARMORA SNOFEST 2011

photo by Peter Hellman

The good news:

I've survived my first book signing on my book tour!

30 copies of DOGSLED DREAMS were snatched up!
I made a pack of new friends. (Waves at 11-year-old Martina the avid reader, eloquent speaker, and sled dog enthusiast.)
And I learned a ton about how to move your book at an event. Namely - you actually have to talk about yourself. Unabashadly. The natural (Canadian?) tendency toward modesty must be left at the door. How else are people going to know your book was selected as a Recommended Read by the Iditarod Education Department, unless you tell them?

Photo Peter Hellman

I LOVED being around all the amazing mushers and sled dogs! 100 howling dogs outside my motel door each evening and morning. Too beautiful for words. I choke up just remembering what that sounded like.

photo by Glen Milligan

The bad news:

I really really wanted to get videos of the start of the races. I wanted to share the absolute joy of the dogs before they run. I taped amazing shots of crazed dogs running past, full teams screaming and lunging on the ganglines. Mushers slipping and wrestling to the start line. It was all so AWESOME!

Then I came home to watch and edit for you and ... AND ...

photo Glen Milligan

I had the recorder off when I thought it was on and on when I thought it was off.

I've got brilliant shots of my feet running in the slushy snow with insane barking in the background.

I didn't get even one photo! (luckily, some did, thank you Peter and Glen)

I'M SO HEARTBROKEN!!!

Photo Charmaine Collins

But - I'll be doing all this again on my next stop in CANNINGTON, Ontario in a couple of weeks. My man will be coming this time. He has graciously volunteered his skills to do the video taping.

Photos are nice - but to really feel the energy and buzz, there's nothing like actually hearing 200 + dogs screaming to RUN!

Thank you to all who purchased my book!

Swag fun and Junior Musher Video Contest Launch

2011-01-31T20:33:00.000-08:00

Next week is my first book signing event. I'll be at the Marmora SnoFest and sled dog races.

I'm sure it will be loads of fun, but I have to admit, I'm nervous. What if no one buys a book? What if I say something brilliantly inappropriate? What if the ink blobs in the pen and messes up someone's copy?

My man surprised me with these little cuties to help out. What could go wrong that a blue-eyed, stuffed husky can't fix?

DOGSLED DREAMS JUNIOR MUSHER VIDEO CONTEST

I'd also like to announce that the JUNIOR MUSHER VIDEO CONTEST is up and running at the DOGSLED DREAMS website.

Contestants are invited to submit videos of their own 'dogsled dreams'.

I'll be posting the videos here, on the facebook page, and on the website. So exciting! Hope we get to see lots of awesome junior mushers with their gorgeous dogs!

You will get to vote for the winner in April!

Elevensies Library Book Feast

2011-01-26T05:25:00.000-08:00

Breaking News:

You’re invited to the Elevensies Book Feast (All You Can Read)!

The Elevensies are a group of 2011 debut authors writing YA and MG books. We're offering librarians the chance to stock their shelves with the latest fiction for teen and tween readers, plus give young patrons the chance to win prize packages with tons of titles they’ll love!

What’s the Scoop?

We’re hosting a year-long giveaway, broken into three seasons. Each season offers books by debut authors that you AND your teen and tween patrons can win. We’ve got a cool poster advertising the giveaway, and random drawings take place at the end of each season.

Check out the BOOKFEAST website for details on how to enter and download the poster!

Here's what's on the menu:

Each season, we’ll offer a selection of books grouped into the following packages or “platters:”

For SPRING:

Blue Plate Special: Contemporary and historical teen fiction that keeps it real

Fusion Fare: Feast on fantasy, paranormal and dystopian teen fiction

Middle Grade Sampler: Dig in to debuts just for tweens, ages 8-12

Check out the WEBSITE for more details on how you can win!

I've already read some of these books and I can tell you they are AMAZING!

Note: Also, please check out Ink Spells today for a fantastic review of Dogsled Dreams!

Reviews!

2011-01-17T09:02:00.000-08:00

Wow! I'm liking google alerts lately! Here's what some people are saying about Dogsled Dreams. It's such a strange feeling to know your book is out in the wild without you. Readers are keeping it alive now - it's out of my hands. I LOVE LOVE LOVE readers!

Just One More Chapter

The Writing Room

Just Jemi

Book Dreaming

Book readings

2011-01-16T09:26:00.000-08:00

I have a burning question for you today.

I've been invited to do a reading of my novel, DOGSLED DREAMS, at the Cannington Public Library during their Sled Dog Races. This is something I have never imagined myself doing. Not even when I dreamed about one day having a book published.

Living in a small town, I haven't had too many opportunities to even attend a book reading. I've been to one - a memoir. The author read from a scene in the book, not the beginning. He read for a LONG time, and the only thing I know for my own reading is that I want to be sure to read a very SHORT passage. (especially since it will be a middle grade audience I hope to impress the most)

I've been stressing a little about this, but then I remembered I have a blog and an amazing group of blogging friends who probably have much more experience attending readings than I have.

So, what do you think about what part to read? Do you prefer when the author reads the first chapter, or part of it? Does it interest you more when the author reads part of an action scene from somewhere else in the story?

If anyone has read Dogsled Dreams, please chime in and tell me which parts you would suggest!

note: I also plan to do some dogsledding activities and fun things, so the reading will only be a very small part of the presentation.

Debut author challenge

2011-01-15T10:23:00.000-08:00

Though I didn't quite finish the 100 book reading challenge last year, (read 76 books) I did enjoy keeping track of the books I read. All the books I've read in 2011 will be on my Goodreads page.This is the place for debut's from the fabulous list of authors at THE ELEVENSIES, I thought I'd join The Story Siren challenge!

1. The Trouble With Half a Moon by Danette Vigilante (MG)
2. Warped by Maurissa Guibord (YA)
3. Vesper by Jeff Sampson (YA)
4. XVI by Julia Karr (YA)
5. Unearthly by Cynthia Hand (YA)
6. Head Games by Keri Mikulski (YA)
7. Perilous by Tamara Hart Heiner (YA)
8. Across the Universe by Beth Revis (YA)
9. Rival by Sara Bennett Wealer (YA)
10. So Shelly by Ty Roth (YA)
11. Haven by Kristi Cook (YA)
12. The Iron Witch by Karen Mahoney (YA)
13. Clarity by Kim Harrington (YA)
14. How Lamar's Bad Prank Won Him a Bubba-Sized Trophy by Chrystal Allen (MG)
15. Illegal by Bettina Restrepo (YA)
16. Between Shades of Gray by Ruta Sepetys (YA)
17. The Lipstick Laws by Amy Holder (YA)
18. The Rotten Adventures of Zachary Ruthless by Allan Woodrow (MG)
19. OyMG by Amy Fellner Dominy (YA)
20. Moonglass by Jessi Kirby (YA)
21. Memento Nora by Angie Smibert (YA)
22. Divergent by Veronica Roth (YA)
23. Possession by Elana Johnson (YA)
24. Blood Magic by Tessa Gratton (YA)
25. Bestest. Ramadan. Ever. by Medeia Sherif (YA)
26. Dead Rules by Randy Russell (YA)
27. Wither by Lauren DeStafano (YA)
28. Vanished by Sheela Chari (MG)
29. End of the Line by Angela Cerrito (YA)
30. Popular by Alissa Grosso (YA)
31. The Near Witch by Victoria Schwab (YA)
32. Anna Dressed in Blood by Kendare Blake (YA)
33. With a Name Like Love by Tess Hilmo (MG)
34. My Very Unfairy Tale Life by Anna Staniszewski (MG)
35. Don't Expect Magic by Kathy McCullough (YA)
36. The Girl of Fire and Thorns by Rae Carson (YA)

Another Glorious Hike

2011-01-15T09:18:00.000-08:00

The most popular posts on my blog are when I stop talking and just let the photos tell the story.

View from the top of Mount Arabella - the highest peak on the north shore.

Let sleeping deer lie

2011-01-08T05:57:00.000-08:00

Little story of adventure today.

It's a testiment to how silent snowshoeing is that I could sneak up on a deer at all.

The soft "whoomp whoomp" on new snow doesn't make much of a sound, but my wheezy breath should have given some advanced warning of my approach. (yes, little out of shape lately)

Okay. so NORMALLY I do try to be very aware of my surroundings. The whole point to snowshoeing is being in the moment and drinking in the peace of nature. But in this instance, I was hurried, absent, mind racing ahead to everything I had to do when I got back.

And that's how I nearly tripped over a deer curled up asleep in the snow. I saw her just before I stepped on her. It startled me into a very awkward crash to the ground beside her. And when I say beside, I mean practically in her lap. The lap with long legs unfolding with wicked sharp hooves at the ends.

photo credit FlickerCC. I did not have time to take out my camera

What happened next I'm sure would have won a funniest home video contest. Neither of us could get away fast enough. I flailed and rolled in the deep snow like a turtle flipped over on its back, frantically trying to get up, she flailed trying to get her cold, stiff legs underneath her. It is a wonder I survived unscathed.

this is about how close I was. photo credit FlickerCC

The whole event reminds me of the day I nearly died by moose. (In fact - that story is being published by Wild Washington in the near future.) Or the sleeping bear I surprised during a rainstorm.

I'm thinking perhaps the deer might have been chased by wolves - they become exhausted and don't like to move once they've bedded down. Or maybe she had slipped on the ice and injured herself. I'm going again today to check on her.

Life Lesson #214 - Look up from your snowshoes.

Teachers Guide for DOGSLED DREAMS

2011-01-06T11:13:00.000-08:00

The fabulous Natalie Lorenzi has completed the Teacher's Guide for my novel, DOGSLED DREAMS.

It is beyond amazing. Some of the creative ideas for activities to do with the class are brilliant and inspired. Really. I can't say enough good things about it.

Please check it out here.

DOGSLED DREAMS released!

2011-01-03T06:36:00.000-08:00

My debut novel for middle grade readers is now out in the world! What a strange emotional mix of thrilling and terrifying!You can purchase copies at the links on the sidebar - Amazon or B & N.

You can also visit the Elevensies site today for a chance to win a copy. One day only!

Also, check out Paul Greci, my awesome critique partner's post about the book! I'm very lucky to have found such a great partner. (and I can't wait till the day I announce HIS book)

And Kathy Habel at I'm a Reader Not a Writer, is also giving away a copy!

And one more - OMG, please visit Just Jemi to read her review! I'm completely blown away!

Thank you to everyone who has shared this journey with me!

Winner of DOGSLED DREAMS

2011-01-02T07:26:00.000-08:00

Happy New Year! I can't believe 2011 is here!

And for my first post, I'm pleased to announce the winner of my contest for a signed copy of the new release DOGSLED DREAMS

is

Shannon O'Donnell!! Of Book Dreaming

Yay, Shannon!

If you entered but didn't win - good news. You still have a few chances to win a copy. Over the next few weeks you can win a copy at

Goodreads
The Elevensies
Dogsled Dreams Facebook Page

and a few other surprise places that I'll announce shortly.

Thank you all for entering and helping out. I'm so thankful for my followers!

My own "best of" list

2010-12-29T18:28:00.000-08:00

one of my "power" places

Tanzer has a hard life forced to hike every day

Been out snowshoeing lately. Not much snow, but glorious weather. Unfortunately, I don't have my camera when the sun shines through the hoarfrost on the branches turning the whole world into awesome.

Shannon had a great idea on her blog listing her most popular posts for 2010. Personally, I tend to blog in sporadic fits. I read and catch up on what's going on for a couple days, then I get busy and miss lots.

So, in case you missed them, I'm listing my favourite posts this year.

1. On Passion
2. What Fills Your Soul Up?
3. Ever Wanted to Mush a Dog Team?
4. Wildlife Shots
5. End of Summer Adventure Photo Collage

Bark River Racing

2010-12-27T17:16:00.000-08:00

Bark River Racing runs sled dog educational programs through schools and a newsletter they produce called the "Daily Scoop". They have just announced that DOGSLED DREAMS is a book they "highly recommend". I feel honoured they liked the book. Here's what they said:

Looking for a good sled dog read for your students?

Try Dogsled Dreams by Terry Lynn Johnson

The book is about a 12 yr old musher who dreams of becoming a famous dog sled racer. There is much about the book to enjoy, but the most exciting part to us is that the story includes a very good description of mushing. Through Rebecca's eyes you see life in the dog yard and being out on the trail, as well as the excitement, butterflies, and self doubting that comes with entering your first race. We highly recommend this book for our BRR teachers and students.

I was so excited to read this! When I wrote the book, this is exactly what I was hoping to accomplish.

Don't forget to enter my DOGSLED DREAMS giveaway. Four days left!

A few random things before Christmas

2010-12-22T07:03:00.000-08:00

photo credit sympatico.ca pets

1. We had our Christmas last week - step families get to have TWO Christmases. And I'm in love with my new Kobo Reader.

2. I plan to finally get some snowshoe adventuring in during the Christmas break. Photos to come.

3. Don't forget the DOGSLED DREAMS giveaway here. Merry Christmas to all!

4. I don't think I'm going to make the 100 book reading challenge, but I did read 75 books. Check out my list here.

5. I've been up to my eyeballs in promotion prep for DOGSLED DREAMS. My amazing publicist has made a snazzy little booklet that includes the first chapter, reviews, and info about a secret junior musher video contest that I'll be announcing shortly. If anyone wants booklets they could use to help me with promotion, please contact me.

6. The Book Dads have reviewed Dogsled Dreams. Check it out here.

DOGSLED DREAMS book giveaway

2010-12-19T05:53:00.000-08:00

It's finally here - the contest you've been waiting for! I'm giving away a signed copy of DOGSLED DREAMS. Here's the deets:

Fill out the form
Contest ends December 31
Open to everyone
Two random draws

I'm asking for you to do at least ONE of the following to help out with promotion of my debut novel. You are most welcome to do more than one - they are all simple and cost nothing but a tiny bit of time. There are no points involved here, just goodwill between bloggers.

1. Add DOGSLED DREAMS to your Goodreads list

2. Post the cover anywhere on your blog

3. Ask your local library to order a copy of DOGSLED DREAMS,
ISBN-10: 0982642342
ISBN-13: 9780982642344

4. Post a link to the Dogsled Dreams page on Facebook

5. Tweet about this contest

TO ENTER FILL OUT FORM HERE

Junior musher inspirational video

2010-12-12T15:20:00.000-08:00

I had to share this video by The FilmDailies about 15-year-old Krista Halnses and her sled dog racing career. It's longer than I usually post - five minutes, but just watching her with her dogs for a few seconds will mesmerize you.

Giving back for December

2010-12-10T06:14:00.000-08:00

It's been a little chilly around here lately - minus twenty Celcius. But this morning, it's much warmer - which usually means SNOW!

first day of freeze-up

settling in for a long winter's rest

Here's a little GIVING BACK post to warm your heart.
The New York Lit.World is accepting donations for children's picture books in partnership with The International Book Bank. The books will be shipped to Liberia and Sierra Leone to find children who may never have had a book of their own - some never have seen a picture book before.

Ambassador Kimmie Weeks reading aloud from book donations

About LitWorld: LitWorld is a non-profit organisation that advocates for global literacy. LitWorld believes stories are life-changing and sharing stories will create connections that have the power to change the world.
About The International Book Bank: An organisation that has been delivering free books and educational materials to developing countries since 1987, with the goal of increasing literacy and advancing education.

WHERE TO MAIL OR BRING BOOKS

LitWorld and The International Book Bank would like new or gently used favorite books to be mailed to:
LitWorld Holiday Book Drive C/O
Deacon Sharon Brennen
Christian Pre-School
Dobbs Ferry Lutheran Church
43 Ashford Ave
Dobbs Ferry, New York 10522

CONNECT WITH LITWORLD!

litworld.org

facebook.com/litworld

twitter.com/litworldsays

Kate Messner in the house

2010-12-06T13:32:00.000-08:00

Welcome to the blog the fabulous KATE MESSNER as my first ever guest! Kate is the author of a little book you may have heard of - THE BRILLIANT FALL OF GIANNA Z. Yeah, that's right. I've got a famous author on my blog!

Today she's here to talk about winter! And her latest book, SUGAR and ICE, a middle grade novel about a girl athlete with a dream about a winter sport. And who doesn't love books like that?

By Kate Messner:
When you live where I do, outdoor winter sports are a part of life in a way that’s hard to explain. It’s not that we don’t feel those –30 degree wind chill temperatures; it’s just that most of us know how to bundle up and appreciate the brighter side of bitter cold.
My new figure skating novel for young readers, SUGAR AND ICE, takes place in Northern New York State and is about a girl from a small-town maple farm who earns a scholarship to train with the elite at Lake Placid’s Olympic Center. Before the action turns to drama on the ice, though, there’s a scene set on the family’s maple farm, where Claire has grown up skating on the cow pond with her cousin.

Some people who have read early copies of SUGAR AND ICE have asked if we really skate on the frozen ponds and lakes in the winter time, and the answer is… well, a picture is worth a thousand words.

Not only do we venture outside on some of the coldest winter days; we long for those temperatures to drop when winter arrives. It takes the perfect mix of bitter cold overnight temperatures, still winds, and a few days without much snow to turn Lake Champlain into a giant skating rink.

Sometimes, it’s a rink that needs shoveling, but it’s well worth the effort! Later on, when the snow is too well packed to be swept away, we turn to cross country skiing past the ice fishermen, a scene that Claire would appreciate, I’m sure.

Readers of my blog shiver, I know, when I share some of these pictures. “How can you go outside in that?” my California friends write. But take a look…

If winter looked like this where you live, wouldn’t it be hard for you to watch it pass by from inside? I feel like Claire and I are kindred spirits in a lot of ways…waiting and waiting for that first good freeze so our seasonal rinks can open for business.

Want a personalized, signed copy of SUGAR AND ICE?
The Bookstore Plus in Lake Placid is hosting a SUGAR AND ICE launch party from 3-5 pm on Saturday, December 11th, so please consider this your invitation if you live in the area! If you can’t make it but would still like a signed, personalized copy, just give the bookstore a call at (518) 523-2950 by December 10th. They’ll take your order, have Kate sign your book after the event, and ship it out to you in plenty of time for the holidays.

‘SUGAR AND ICE

Junior Library Guild Selection

Winter 2010-2011 Kids IndieNext List

Amazon.com Best Books for December 2010

For Claire Boucher, life is all about skating on the frozen cow pond and in the annual Maple Show right before the big pancake breakfast on her family's maple farm. But all that changes when Claire is offered a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity-a scholarship to train with the elite skaters in Lake Placid. Tossed into a world of mean girls on ice, where competition is everything, Claire soon realizes that her sweet dream-come-true has sharper edges than she could have imagined. Can she find the strength to stand up to the people who want her to fail and the courage to decide which dream she wants to follow?

Thank you, Kate, for your great photos and post!

Check out Kate Messner website HERE

Her BLOG HERE

celebrating snow, reviews, and 200 followers!

2010-12-01T11:38:00.000-08:00

our deck - gateway to winter wonderland

We finally got our snow, the lake is making ice as I write this, I've got 200 followers! And Dogsled Dreams continues to get good reviews! So much to celebrate! What should we do?

First, let's make fun of my step-daughter's little Remmington, and his snow ball plight.

little dog likes to tromp through drifts like the big dog but doesn't have the fur for it!

Now, let's announce that NEXT WEEK, author Kate Messner will be stopping by to talk about winter, and her latest book SUGAR AND ICE.

Next, I'd like to share a review Dogsled Dreams received from a famous musher and author.

Dogsled Dreams by Terry Lynn Johnson is a story that demonstrates the bond between mushers and their dogs, the devotion mushers feel for their dogs, and the lengths to which they will go to ensure their dog’s health and well-being.

The most important lesson in this book is that it shows a young person being responsible and treating animals humanely and that this behavior is admired by their peers.
This story also truly shows that mushing is a family sport that enhances family connections and one that bring joy to humans and canines. People of all ages will enjoy reading Dogsled Dreams.
--Pam Flowers, Author of Alone Across the Arctic: One Woman's Epic Journey by Dog Team

All this great news - makes me feel like giving away signed copies of DOGSLED DREAMS! Any cool ideas out there on how to make it fun?

To Gee or to Haw, that is the question

2010-11-27T11:44:00.000-08:00

Bark River Racing team photo

Find out how tuned in mushers are with their leaders in the latest FUN FACT #3 on the website HERE.

Dogsled Dreams on Biblio Reads

2010-11-23T06:05:00.000-08:00

Biblio Reads gave Dogsled Dreams FOUR stars in their review!!

Check out the review here.

The Next Fifteen Minutes by Kim Kircher

2010-11-21T13:08:00.000-08:00

CONGRATULATIONS to Kim Kircher for signing with Behler Publications for her debut memoir, THE NEXT FIFTEEN MINUTES.

From Kim's blog:

My memoir, THE NEXT FIFTEEN MINUTES, takes readers on a wild ride of salvation, finding answers to a scary diagnosis in the oddest places, including the bottom of a snowy avalanche and the cockpit of a Beaver floatplane.

As a ski patroller, I use explosives to prevent avalanches and my EMT training to save lives. When my husband got sick, it was the most important job yet: rescue him. My training taught me how to survive any crisis, even a terrible diagnosis: just calm down and breathe. During the twelve months waiting for the liver transplant that would save him, I conquered my greatest fear by returning to the mountains. I mined our lives spent skiing, climbing, and exploring the wilderness for lessons I could apply to our current dilemma. THE NEXT FIFTEEN MINUTES offers a rare glimpse into the strange and fascinating world of ski area work, where steep terrain and deep snow, the twin fuels that run our business, can teach us how to get through the worst trials just fifteen minutes at a time.

Kim's story sounds truly inspiring, as does her lifestyle of adventure as an avalanche specialist and ski patroller. Go check out her amazing blog! Way to go, Kim! Can't wait to read it.

Getting the snowshoes ready

2010-11-17T17:31:00.000-08:00

This is a recycled post from my blog's first year. Thought it was a good time to post again since it's one of my favourite activities and from the forecast, sounds like it won't be long now.

The best thing about snowshoeing is looking behind you. Something about that narrow tunnel stamped into a fresh sheet of white snow makes me feel like an explorer. The sole human visiting a magical place with drooping spruce branches and secretive silence. I was here.

What fun can you have with a bucket of bloody chicken parts?

2010-11-16T08:34:00.000-08:00

FUN FACT #2 has been posted to my website. Check it out HERE.

Also, you may notice Chapter One of Dogsled Dreams has been officially posted on the top bar.

I've been busy lately considering a CIRCLE SUPERIOR book tour to Thunder Bay and Duluth. I could take in the John Beargrease Sled Dog Marathon and visit my old haunts in Thunder Bay. I've been invited by a Thunder Bay musher friend of Boreal Journeys to join them at the race festivities. Dogsled Dreams is based in the outskirts of the city.

This hasn't been officially decided yet. I have a concern with the road conditions in January. But just in case, are any of my dear readers along this route?

book give away winners!

2010-11-15T06:06:00.000-08:00

My giveaway this month has THREE winners! Congratulations to

KIM KIRCHER - you have won

SUSAN FIELDS - you have won

JENNIFER ROBINSON - you have won

CONGRATULATIONS! And thanks for helping me celebrate TWO MONTHS until release day!

Next contest will be for signed copies of DOGSLED DREAMS!!!

Meet the Mushers

2010-11-13T10:36:00.000-08:00

Iditarod.com photo credit

The official list of mushers signed up to race the 2011 Iditarod is up on the website. Check out the site HERE to see full biographies and photos of the racers. My secret crush, Martin Buser is running again this year! Good luck to all and happy training!

Put your hands up in the air

2010-11-12T11:40:00.000-08:00

This has nothing to do with adventure, or dogs, or outdoor adventure, or writing. And I don't ususally do this here - but seriously, just watch.

jokeroo.com

Don't forget to enter my book giveaway! Closes on Monday, November 15!

Reviews coming in

2010-11-10T13:40:00.000-08:00

After the ARC's are sent to reviewers, it's yet another thing to wait for in this business. Will they like it? What if they think it's sucky? Will they write and print a review that it's sucky? What if everyone reads the review and decides not to buy the book because of said suckiness? Really, the waiting can be torture.

With three weeks left till the publisher's deadline for reviews, I still have a while to wait. But, I have received TWO REVIEWS before the deadline and they are most awesome! Someone out there gets the story. They like the writing. Not one mention of sucky.

I was going to wait to share the reviews, but I just can't.

Dogsled Dreams is an inspirational story about a girl learning the rewards of persistence, hard work and bravery. It is much more than an adventure story about a young musher; it is about a girl determined to prove her knowledge, abilities and maturity to her family, peers and, most importantly, herself. Rebecca's experiences are applicable to any young girl ready to emerge from the security of childhood to the freedom of adolescence. Dogsled Dreams is a captivating and exciting debut novel and introduction to dogsledding.

Superior Outdoors Magazine

This is an engaging, often exciting, and sometimes humorous story full of rich details and fascinating information about dog sled racing. Rebecca and her dogs not only came alive, but they brought me along on their adventures.

Cynthia Chapman Willis, author of Dog Gone and Buck Fever

Dogs help you live longer

2010-11-07T04:52:00.000-08:00

Last year, Dogs in Canada magazine published one of my articles, WALKING THE DOG. It's now up on the Dogs in Canada website.

The article is about my friend, Alana who has Cystic Fibrosis. Her goofy dogs are keeping her alive. See how by checking out my article here!

Excerpt:
Alana’s neighbours grew accustomed to the sight of her pulling a wagon with Magnus sitting proudly. They could set their clocks by the morning, noon and evening walks.

Celebrating Dog Books

2010-11-04T15:15:00.000-07:00

A few of my DOG BOOK collection.

Lately I've been reading some amazing books about dogs. Wanted to share some of my recommended reads with you.

LOST AND FOUND by Jacqueline Sheehan haunts me still. The characters are rich and vivid and the dialogue is amazing. The author wrote me back after I sent her a fan mail!

LISTEN by Stephanie Tolan. A quiet, thoughtful book about the power a relationship with a dog can have. Loved it. This author also wrote me back!

THE BOY WHO SPOKE DOG by Clay Morgan. Interesting that the dog's speak in this story. And they are fiercely loyal.

PUPPIES, DOGS, and BLUE NORTHERS by Gary Paulsen. It's by Paulsen, so what more can I say about this. Loved it.

IZZY AND LENORE by Jon Katz. Katz has a special way of writing about dogs that worms into your brain. I've enjoyed all of his books. And especially SOUL OF A DOG. Just wow.

DOG GONE by Cynthia Chapman Willis. Great story, amazing characters, emotional read. Loved it!

Have you read any good books about dogs lately? I'd love to hear about them.

Book Giveaway Celebration!

2010-10-31T15:34:00.000-07:00

In Two and half months, my debut novel DOGSLED DREAMS will be released! I can hardly believe it! To celebrate, I'm giving away the following fabulous books. All you have to do is answer one question

What is the main character's name in Dogsled Dreams? HINT: female protagonist

The answer can be found at my website.

Three winners will each win two books. In an attempt to be hip, I've made a FORM. Fill out your preference of book-goodness you'd like to win. I'll compile the information and random-pick the winners. Deadline is November 15 to enter. Exactly TWO months before Dogsled Dreams release.

Enter HERE.

RAMPANT by Diana Peterfreund - hard cover

ETERNAL by Cynthia Leitich Smith - soft cover

AS IF BEING 12 3/4 ISN'T BAD ENOUGH by Donna Gephart - signed by author!

BUCK FEVER by Cynthia Chapman Willis - hard cover

THE ELEPHANT KEEPER by Christopher Nicholson - soft cover

The Writer's Guide to CRAFTING STORIES FOR CHILDREN by Nancy Lamb - soft cover

Middle Grade authors

2010-10-30T06:45:00.000-07:00

Here's a few fabulous middle grade authors with debut books coming out in 2011. They're fellow Elevensies members and from the look of their new websites, their books are going to be fantastic! Check them out

Caroline Starr Rose just unveiled her new website for her novel, MAY B. It's a historical survival story! In verse! How she does that is a mystery to me. But I know I can't wait until September.

Allan Woodrow has a hillarious website. Seriously, go see what his typical book signing looks like. This series will be a riot. The Rotten Adventures of ZACHARY RUTHLESS is available now for pre order.

Dog costume fun

2010-10-24T18:55:00.000-07:00

What good is a strange, yearly tradition of dressing up to get candy if you don't use the chance to completely humiliate your poor canine companion whose greatest joy in life is to please you?

photos from sympatico.ca

First review

2010-10-18T05:57:00.000-07:00

This is way cool!

Not only did the amazing Cynthia Chapman Willis, author of DOG GONE and BUCK FEVER, agree to review my ARC, but she also provided a BLURB. That's the short quote that goes on the cover of the final book.

I'm delighted that my first review is positive - in fact, she liked it so much, she's posted about it on her blog. I'm feeling a little star-struck, and completely honoured.

Check out Cynthia's blog to read what she thought of DOGSLED DREAMS.

DOGSLED DREAMS is available for pre order at the publisher's site. PRE ORDER HERE.

Winterdance Training Run

2010-10-13T15:11:00.000-07:00

Fourteen seconds of passion.

Thought I'd post this quick, fun video to remind everyone we've got SNOW coming soon! Let's get excited!!!

Winterdance Dogsled Tours is a large kennel of 150 huskies, in my hometown of Haliburton, Ontario. They plan to run the Yukon Quest this year! Also, their e-book Iditarod Dreamer is available to purchase on their site. Hop over and check out their other fun videos!

Adventure post contest

2010-10-09T19:20:00.000-07:00

This post is for the awesome contest going on at Beth Revis's blog to win an ARC of her fabulous debut novel coming out ACROSS THE UNIVERSE. I'm pretty sure you've heard of it, but if you've missed it, check out the first chapter here. It will blow your mind.

I normally write short, quick posts here. But this will break from tradition.

A life lesson at a remote outpost camp

Working as a cook in a prospector camp north of Pickle Lake, Ontario in January comes with a few challenges. But I was 19 and ready for an adventure, though I didn’t know how to cook.

I chopped wood, stoked woodstoves and hauled water. I also quickly learned how to feed a camp full of hungry guys. I was so good at all these jobs, the guys stopped mumbling about having some whimpy girl in camp and actually started saying things like, “you’d make a good trapper’s wife there darlin’.”

Which I took to be a compliment of sorts. They even made me my own private outhouse. This consisted of a hole, some logs nailed to the trees and a plastic see-through tarp stapled up to form a privacy screen that worked about as well as when you were in 6th grade and your friend held up her scarf in front of you to change behind in gym. Still, it was mine.

One morning I slept in. I’m not sure how since the average air temperature inside the walled canvas tent was possibly colder than the minus 40 degrees Celsius outside. I threw my legs over the side of my plywood platform bed and jumped into my boots. My squeaking steps to the cook tent sounded loud in the silent darkness. Normally I lit the woodstove quickly using a mixture of gas and oil. I’d sprinkle some on the kindling, light a match and toss it in. There’d be a little “poof” and the kindling would begin to cheerily crackle and spit out its warmth.

But there was a shortage of gas today. Only the guys cutting line with chainsaws could use it. I held up my Coleman lantern and stumbled around until I spotted the can of Naptha gas.

I wonder if that will work, I said to myself. Did I mention I was 19?

I grabbed the can with icy fingers and gingerly poured some on the kindling. I leaned over the woodstove, peering down the opening at the top. That doesn’t look like enough. It probably needs more. I poured more. I straightened, shivered, and poured a little more on just to be sure.

I lit the match directly over top of the stove. And to ensure that the Naptha worked, I leaned over the yawning, dark hole and watched the match drop in.

Life lesson #132.

A large ball of rabid flame shot up towards my face. I was blown backwards by the force of the explosion. The stove pipe was launched through the tent wall like an evil black rocket. A deafening blast cut through the freezing air that was probably heard in the living rooms of the people in the next village.

“What was that Joe?”

“Don’t know Martha, sounded like some lunatic white woman is testing the volatility of Naptha gas.”

The commotion brought 12 men in long johns, running in to find me giggling on the ground. There was a melt hole across the chest of my Polypropylene shirt, some blisters already forming on the backs of my hands, and the distinct smell of burnt pig. I was to discover later that half my eyebrows were gone.

The rest of that month passed slowly for me. Stripped of my “trapper’s wife” honorary title, I was now the camp joke. Guaranteed to bring a smile to any who glanced at me.

But I did learn how to cook, how to get along with a group of surly male prospectors, and some fire safety. The good thing is you only have to learn something like that once.

DOGSLED DREAMS book trailer

2010-10-02T04:33:00.000-07:00

Today is the day.

For your viewing pleasure, I present the official DOGSLED DREAMS trailer created by the most awesome Madison Meyer of M2 Productions.

End of summer adventure photo collage

2010-09-30T09:32:00.000-07:00

One of the great things about blogging is I get to share some of my vacation photos without being that obnoxious friend that makes you sit through the two hour slide show of their trip to Disney World. This way, you can scroll through the ones that are boring. Here's a few I haven't posted already. Enjoy.

My man on his cell as a storm approaches

The fog monster approaches

cooking noodles. Yum.

paddling next to a deer

what's a slide show without the obligatory dog shot?

I've posted this one before - but it's just too cute not to repeat

Outdoor Writers of Canada awards!

How to turn your book club into a spectacular event

2010-09-30T06:18:00.000-07:00

New release alert!

How To Turn Your Book Club Into a Spectacular Event by Myra Calvani is available now on Amazon. It's published by Twilight Times Books.

The most amazing thing is that I'm listed in the book as a resource! I'm thrilled and honoured.

Here's what some people are saying
"How to Turn Your Book Club into a Spectacular Event, by Mayra Calvani, speaks directly to kids who love to read and who want to share their favorite books with friends." --The Story of a Writer

HOW TO TURN YOUR BOOK CLUB INTO A SPECTACULAR EVENT is packed with great ideas on making this happen. From ideas of what to call your book club to brainstorming questions to ask, this is a must have book if you're serious about having a successful club." --YABooks Central

For more info, check out Myra's website HERE.

I'm on Writer's Alley!

2010-09-27T15:07:00.000-07:00

I can't believe it!! I've hit the big time and I'm featured on Sheri Larsen's blog!!! Her graffiti wall features all sorts of amazing talented writers and I'm honoured to be chosen!

Check out the interview for how I feel about writing, dogsledding, agents, and dog breath. Go here.

Advanced readers copies

2010-09-26T05:42:00.000-07:00

Very busy week this week! Hiking, working, kayaking, ARC's arriving...

And just because it's too beautiful not to share, here's my dog waiting on the deck early morning last week. She wants to go for a hike around the lake!

Ask an Elevensie!

2010-09-22T10:40:00.000-07:00

Over on the debut author site the ELEVENSIES, is a new feature. Every Tuesday, a new question will be picked from our readers and any of the 80 + authors on the site will respond with answers!

This week - WHAT DO YOU WISH SOMEONE WOULD HAVE TOLD YOU WHEN YOU STARTED WRITING?

Go see what some of the Elevensies have to say! Check it out here.

Adventure blogs and book

2010-09-20T16:22:00.000-07:00

Meet my new blog crush.

Kim Kircher's blog is a great place to be inspired to get outside and enjoy life.

Her latest post whispers a secret of an upcoming memoir, THE NEXT FIFTEEN MINUTES. Her adventures as a ski patroller trying to find salvation after a terrible diagnosis. Congratulations Kim!

Other great blogs

Girls Trek Too
Expand Outdoors
Women's Adventure Magazine

Bookmarks and facebook fan page

2010-09-12T06:36:00.000-07:00

front view

back view

Just wanted to mention I have my new fan page set up on Facebook for DOGSLED DREAMS.

FACEBOOK

There's a contest right now to win my new bookmarks. All you have to do is "like" it and comment! This will be a place to find dogsledding info, meet junior mushers (closer to the book launch date) and get book related updates.

Would love to get a few more fans!

Kayak around Cockburn Island

2010-09-09T10:38:00.000-07:00

Another excellent trip full of stunning vistas, secluded beaches, and near death experiences. Last week we circumnavigated Cockburn Island, just west of Manitoulin Island, Ontario (the world's largest freshwater island that we circumnavigated last year. See here for details) It is so remote we didn't see a soul, not one boat, for days at a time.

The highlight for me is one that I have no photos of because I needed both hands clutched to the paddle - or die. Well, maybe just horribly, horribly maimed.

On the second last day, we surfed for two hours with man-eating following seas and then when we were good and tired, tried to squeeze through some wave-beaten reefs. My man glanced back at me and said my kayak stood straight up and down, then disappeared under a wall of white, then popped back up. I felt as though I'd been sucked up and spit out by an impossibly powerful, wet monster. Huge adrenaline rush, but not sure I'd do it again.

The rest of the trip can be seen in these photos.

before a gale blew in - the water was magical. paddle blade dips.

tired to hold camera up to get me in there. almost made it. I'm looking at a raft of loons calling across the water.

one of many private beaches

we brought back many rocks that needed a home

doe and three spotted fawns behind her

If anyone can tell me what kind of tracks these are - leave it in comments! Five toes on front feet. Fisher? The tracks were all over the beach apparently having a fun romp

Personal Demons release game

2010-09-08T04:11:00.000-07:00

Fellow Elevensie Lisa Desrochers will be doing a blog tour this week for her release PERSONAL DEMONS. Start over on Elana's blog today to find clues for a free copy! Here's the schedule

Wed. Elana Johnson

Thurs. Carrie Harris

Fri. Myra McEntire

Sat. Lila

Sun. Beth Revis

Mon. Andrea Cremer

Tues. Lisa Desrochers

Dogsled Dreams cover

2010-09-02T20:26:00.000-07:00

I just came home from a week long kayak trip - photos to come. But the most WONDERFUL surprise awaited me when I fired up the old computer. I have a cover!! Full wrap-around jacket and the cover with shiny new text created by the talented WillowRaven - Art Director of 4RV Publishing.

One of the most exciting parts of this process so far is seeing the cover completed! I can almost imagine what it will look like on the shelf of a bookstore!

Book giveaway winner!

2010-09-02T20:19:00.000-07:00

Sharon Mayhew has won the draw for my book giveaway! Thanks so much for everyone showing up and playing along! I'll have more contests closer to the release date for DOGSLED DREAMS.

Book give away contest!

2010-08-22T13:22:00.000-07:00

It's time for another book giveaway! Up for grabs THREE books from 4RV Publishing and ONE more special addition - a PJ HOOVER book, THE EMERALD TABLET!!

To enter, simply check out my new website and leave a comment here using one of the listed words from the mushing terminology page in a sentence! FUN!

The winning name will be drawn from a hat. Contest ends September 1.

Interview on how I got my agent

2010-08-12T05:04:00.000-07:00

I'm being interviewed over at the FABULOUS Adventures in Childrens Publishing blog. Come on over and check it out!

Wildlife shots

2010-08-09T18:53:00.000-07:00

Haven't been around the blogger sphere lately. But here's a photo essay of what I've been doing.

What's shakin' Baby?

Gray Tree Frog on the deck. Look at the toes!

Forest fire on our lake. Water Bomber in action.

Gorgeous new neighbour moved in to the shed.

leave me alone, can't you see I'm trying to sleep.

Barrred Owl! Look at that face!

Fox tracks - kayak trip with friend. Photo by Karen Mikoliew

Sunset - kayak trip with friend. photo by K. Mikoliew

Heading out to work on our hiking trails. My man's stunning smile.

wild lily's on kayak trip with friend. photo by K.Mikoliew

Me on a kayak trip. photo by K.Mikoliew