Winning Blog: KinWorm

This week's spotlight falls on
KinWorm

There are some awesome ebooks available for free on Amazon from time to time, but I don't always get around to checking them out soon enough.  Enter KinWorm, a blog with a weekly update on those Amazon freebies.  Not all may be family-friendly, but they include a smattering of Christian fiction and nonfiction that are certainly worth checking out.

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BULLETIN BOARD

No linky today, but nominations for future Winning Blogs are always welcome.

Have a blessed weekend!

Winning Blog:

This week's spotlight falls on
A Sequence of Continuous Delights
and
Christian Book Giveaways

Welcome to Carman, an unusual 18-year-old...

How would you describe your blog?

My first blog, A Sequence of Continuous Delights, is a one-book-giveaway-per-week, book review, author interview, and random funny things blog.

My second blog, Christian Book Giveaways, is a one-stop-shopping site where anyone can find book giveaways in the Christian genre that interest them.

How long have you been blogging?

My first blog’s anniversary was actually September 14^th!! :D I’m really excited about it. So one year total.

Tell us a little about yourself:

I’m an unusual eighteen year old girl. I read a lot, like knitting and other crafts, and love to spend as much time with my friends as possible. I’m currently doing my senior year of high school and my freshman year of college at the same time. When I “grow up” I want to be a blogging, book reviewing, stay-at-home mom of as many kids as I can have.

What are some of your favorite things?

I have too many favorite books to list them all, but some of my favorite movies would be Pride and Prejudice, North and South (with Richard Armitage), and other BBC movies. I like all kinds of music, and I love to dance. I want to travel all over the world, but especially Europe one day.

Which genre most appeals to you, and why?

Romance. Definitely. I think I like romance because of the same reasons that author Julie Lessman does. The romance genre shows how Christ is the ultimate “romancer” of our hearts. I love that!

What advice do you have for other book bloggers?
 

Be excellent. Do your very best in all things, and honor God with your blog and your time. He will ALWAYS reward that. :D

Thanks, Carman, for joining us here at Winning Readings today!

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BULLETIN BOARD

No linky today, but be sure to pop by A Sequence of Continuous Delights and Christian Book Giveaways to say hi!  Nominations for future Winning Blogs are always welcome.

Have a blessed weekend!

Winning Blog: Little Nippers

This week's spotlight falls on
Little Nippers

Welcome to Michelle Berg, regular contributer here at Winning Readings with her Little Nippers Top 10 series...

What is the purpose of your blog?

The primary aim of my blog is to be a guide for new parents.  It covers book reviews (Children’s and Parenting); reviews on local museums and fun family outings as well open discussions on hot parenting issues with links to other related sites.  In addition, Little Nipper Books also offers free resources for teachers on our website such as curriculum ideas for the classroom. 

How long have you been blogging?

I have only been blogging for six months but the start of Little Nippers has opened up so many doors.  Since January, I’ve been asked to write several reviews for various blogs and local newspapers.  In addition, it has brought much recognition and success to my first children’s book entitled Miss Mandy Manners.

Tell us a little about yourself:

I live in Marblehead, Massachusetts where I am a Publisher, Author and mother of two.

Formerly an advertising copywriter, I have dreamed of being a published author since I was young.  It wasn’t until I had two children of my own, however, that inspiration truly came. Miss Mandy Manners originated from the trials and tribulations of teaching my own daughter proper manners.

I am currently working on a second book about perseverance and determination, another lesson I am trying to teach my own kids!

What are some of your favorite things?

My favorite books are: Atlas Shrugged, Les Miserable, Roots and The Grapes of Wrath.  Unfortunately, I have not had the opportunity to travel abroad.  But, I would like to visit Italy and Ireland sometime in the near future. One of my favorite things to do is dance.  I take a Dance Energy class 3 times a week and it keeps me in shape and stress free!  I can’t remember the last time I had so much fun exercising!

Which genre most appeals to you, and why?

Aside from Children’s books of all kinds, my favorite genre for adult books is historical fiction.  I believe it’s often the best way to learn about history.

What advice do you have for other book bloggers?
 

My advice to other book bloggers is to first offer variety.  Write about books with different genres to appeal to a wide audience.  Also, discuss books you are only truly passionate about.  Reviewing a book that you are somewhat indifferent to is challenging.

Thanks, Michelle, for joining us here at Winning Readings today!  I've been marking down all the titles from your Top 10 on my daughter's library list, and I'm looking forward to reading Miss Mandy Manners, too.  It was great getting to know you a little better!

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BULLETIN BOARD

No linky today, but be sure to pop by Little Nippers and say hi!  Nominations for future Winning Blogs are always welcome.

Have a blessed weekend!

Winning Blog: Muse Reviews

This week's spotlight falls on
Muse Reviews

Welcome to Meg from Muse Reviews!

What is the purpose of your blog?

To bring honest and detailed reviews to my readers, letting them know what products and items we love as a family, letting them know how they may get their own. I love being able to give away items, as well, giving my sponsors more visibility and also blessing my readers with chances to win fantastic prizes.


It has also opened up a number of doors for me interpersonally. Blogging lets me "meet" so many interesting and fun people, establish professional relationships, as well as gain more information about companies and products we like so much.

How long have you been blogging?

I began blogging in January of 2004 when I found out I was expecting our first child. My original blog was a "baby blog," an online diary or baby book of sorts. As he grew and developed, I added more and more posts....and pretty soon, I saw blogging as an opportunity to tell my readers about products my kids use and enjoy. Thus, review blogging was born, and in 2008, my separate reviews page, Muse Reviews, took off.

Tell us a little about yourself:

I grew up an army brat and a preacher's kid! I am super close to my family and am so fortunate to be able to live near all of them even now. I married my best friend in May 2000, just a week after graduating from college with a degree in psychology. I have occupational background in retail, marketing, and legal assistantship....but above all, I love to write. My husband and I welcomed our first son into the world four years later....and a daughter in 2006. I have been a stay-at-home mom since the summer before our first was born....and love every minute of it.

What are some of your favorite things?

Books? So many! I love non-fiction books by Elisabeth Elliot and Ravi Zacharias. I also adore classics, such as Anne of Green Gables and Little Women. I also enjoy military books and movies. Classic films and historically based films are at the top of my movie list. Music I love includes jazz, classical, reggae, classic rock, bluegrass, eclectic (I am so not picky when it comes to music). One of the most beautiful places I've ever traveled to is a jaunt through the New England states. I also enjoy Texas -- Galveston Island and San Antonio are my favs. My dream is to one day visit Scotland and Japan -- though not necessarily on the same trip. :)

Which genre most appeals to you, and why?

Actually, one of my favorite genres of books is memoirs. I love that they "read like fiction" but come straight from the pasts of people's lives. Fascinating. Heartbreaking. Inspiring. Real and raw.

What advice do you have for other book bloggers?
 
For newbies: Begin by reviewing books that are already on your shelves. Books that you can read again and again. Books that spoke to you and that you want to tell the world about. Then pick one or two publishing companies based on offerings....and write them. Let them know you're getting into book blogging and would they mind sending you a few titles to review?


For existing book bloggers: Don't feel like you have to write a positive review for every book. Folks come to your site for honest reviews. And if a book is just full of negatives (or goes against your morals or convictions), it's okay to let the publisher know that you can't review that book and review it honestly.

Most of all, have fun! Getting to read all the time? Not a bad hobby!
Thanks, Meg, for joining us here at Winning Readings today!  I love the advice about beginning by reviewing the books already on your shelves - the ones you love and want to tell the world about.  I think that applies to us all...

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BULLETIN BOARD

No linky today, but be sure to pop by Muse Reviews and say hi!  Nominations for future Winning Blogs are always welcome.

Have a blessed weekend!

Winning Blog: Cornhusker Academy

This week's spotlight falls on
Cornhusker Academy

Janna's blog, Cornhusker Academy, was one of the first I stumbled across amongst Christian book blogs - I think it was through a FIRST review where I was trying to figure out how they were supposed to be done...  I've enjoyed her honest reviews (and her book giveaways)! 

Describe your blog:

I got involved with ACFW (American Christian Fiction Writers) and wanted to do what I could to help the authors promote their books, and I've always been an avid reader so with the encouragement of my sister and one of her friends I started my blog and joined 2 different Christian book blogging associations. I write mostly about the books I read (around 250 a year) but I plan on trying to incorporate a little more of my family life this year.

How long have you been blogging?

I started my blog September of 2007 so I am almost at my 3 year anniversary!

Tell us a little about yourself:

I celebrate my 15 year anniversary with my wonderful husband this month, it's hard to believe that it has been that long already! We just had our 7th child on July 25th so we are readjusting to having a newborn again. Of course with 6 older children to help this will probably be our easiest baby yet :-) We now have 4 boys and 3 girls ranging in age from almost 14 years to almost 14 days. I homeschool my children during the day, teach dance at my Christian Dance Studio 3 evenings a week during the school year and read at night. I pretty much love my life.

What are some of your favorite things?

Hmm, my favorite things??? I'm very eclectic so what is my favorite today may depend on my mood and not be my favorite tomorrow, but as a general rule...


Books - mystery/suspense, fantasy/speculative fiction and good YA that I can pass on to my eldest daughter

Movies - a good chick flick if its just me, a good comedy or action film if its me and hubby and a good family movie if we are all sitting down to watch together

Music - as a dance teacher I am always looking for new good Christian bands, some of my current favorites - Rapture Ruckus, Addison Road, Britt Nicole, Group 1 Crew, Revive, Josh Wilson, Sixteen Cities and many more...

Travel Destinations - my husband and I won a trip about 6 years ago through work and were blessed by going to Maui and staying in the Four Seasons there. It was the most amazing trip and we have always said that we would like to go back some day, that day keeps getting pushed back but I do believe that at some point it will happen. 

Which genre most appeals to you, and why?

See above comment but I'll name a few of my favorite authors in each genre...


Mystery/Suspense - Brandilyn Collins, Coleen Coble, Cara Putman and Steven James

Fantasy/Spec Fic - Jill Williamson, Mitchell Bond, Sharon Hinck and Donita Paul

YA - Robert Liparulo, Debbie Viguie, Lisa Samson and Shelley Adina

What advice do you have for other book bloggers?
 
Make sure that you love what you are doing and that you are being a blessing to those around you, the authors and the readers. I learned that every book has an audience, just because I didn't like it doesn't mean that it won't touch someone else just where they need it. That has happened to me on a few different occasions, I also have to remember that the book is someone's special baby and they have poured their heart and soul into it. At the same time I want to be honest for my readers, I never want them to purchase a book that I really didn't like, but maybe I glossed over and then say, "That was horrible, normally I agree with Janna's choices..." Honesty with diplomacy is how I try and write my reviews.

Thanks, Janna, for joining us here at Winning Readings today!  (Seven kids, a dance studio, and 250 books a year?  I think I could get some tips here...  Looking forward to learning more about your family life!)

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BULLETIN BOARD

No linky today, but be sure to pop by Cornhusker Academy and say hi!  Nominations for future Winning Blogs are always welcome.

Have a blessed weekend!

Winning Blog: Proud Book Nerd

This week's spotlight falls on

Proud Book Nerd

Heather, of a Proud Book Nerd, has been blogging for awhile but only recently got into the book blog scene.  You'll find a mix of genres on her blog, including lots of Christian, and some giveaways, too. 

What is your blog's mission?

My blog is basically a place for me to share what I read with my friends/readers. I have been a bookworm for as long as I can remember, so it only seems natural that I found this way to share my love of reading with others. If I can help encourage others to read more, then I feel I've done a great job!

How long have you been blogging?

Blogging in general, a few years. Book blogging, since April of this year.

Tell us a little about yourself:

Um, my name is Heather. My husband and I have been married for 11 years, and have three kids. Abigail is 7; Grant is 4; and Natalie is 2. As I mentioned above, I've been a bookworm since I learned to read. My degree is in English (lit), and I have worked several years as a copy editor. I now stay home with my kids, and have recently rediscovered my love of reading. That led to the book blog. I also am a born-again Christian, and have been for longer than I've been a bookworm!

What are some of your favorite things?

You mean besides books? LOL Music. I think music and books are equally important to me for different reasons. Other favorite things: thunderstorms, lilacs, chai tea lattes, and Ben & Jerry's Boston Cream Pie ice cream.

  

Which genre most appeals to you, and why?

This is a tough one, because I like a LOT of different genres, from YA and fantasy to historical fiction and chick lit. If I HAD to pick one, I think it would be Christian fiction, because I like that it reinforces my faith. I don't like the ones that feel like a sermon, but the ones with natural faith. You know, the character says a quick prayer in the middle of the day for guidance. The character thanks God/Jesus when something good happens Stuff like that. It's natural. At least it is to me, because it's the way I tend to get through the day. Plus, I love seeing characters rely on God to get them through situations, rather than trying to do it on their own. Again, something I'm well-versed in! ;-)

What advice do you have for other book bloggers?
 
Don't get overambitious. Believe me, it's not fun. I LOVE to read, and I read a LOT. A LOT. I have currently read 54 books so far this year. But, I've over-committed myself. It's becoming a chore, less fun. Pace yourself. Don't accept everything that comes your way. Make sure to leave room for your leisurely reading, too. Things that you want to read just to read them, and not be feeling like you HAVE to review them. Finding that balance is tricky – I'm still working on that – but I know it can be done. And it's so very important. If you don't, you could find yourself burned out.

Thanks, Heather, for joining us here at Winning Readings today!  (And I can totally relate to that balance thing... )

If you want to know more about Heather, check out her Ramblings & More blog, as well!

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BULLETIN BOARD

No linky today, but be sure to pop by Proud Book Nerd and say hi!  Nominations for future Winning Blogs are always welcome.

Have a blessed weekend!

Winning Blog: Onedesertrose's Blog

This week's spotlight falls on

Onedesertrose's Blog - Christian Book Reviews

Relatively new to me is Onedesertrose's Blog - Christian Book Reviews.  I've appreciated Linda's in-depth analysis of Christian themes of the books in her reviews.

Let's meet Linda, Onedesertrose...

What is your blog's mission?

One of my missions is to post on Christian books, particularly those that have a redemptive, reconciliatory and forgiveness basis. I once read a secular book that I somehow won free. The plot of the story was mainly ok, minus the swearing. I usually do not read these types of books, but felt compelled to finish it. The ending left me empty and hopeless. The characters were bitter and revengeful. I saw so clearly the difference between secular and Christian books. Christian books usually diffuse the grace of God within the book, bringing about reconciliation, redemption and forgiveness with God, family and friends. So my goal is to promote Christian books for this reason. I get blessed in the process and grow, too.


A second reason would be to bring ‘hard issues’ into the mix so people will get involved in whatever way they can in the areas they feel called, such as, human trafficking, abortion, domestic and child abuse, evangelizing, etc.

I also will blog on Christian meetings that publishers/organizations send me to promote. I’m also starting to include my passion of raising children so they know the truth of God’s Word instead of the secular teachings they get in school. Be looking for more of that.

How long have you been blogging?

I have been blogging since May, 2009, with more in-depth blogs since January, 2010.

Tell us a little about yourself:

I’m married to my sweet husband; 40 years this Fall. I have one son. Both my hubby and I grew up on farms. I wouldn't trade the experience for the world. Not sure why we are living in the city, but I love it here, too. I’m an avid book reader—have been since I could read. Don’t have that 'itch' to write, however. I like to do the reading and blogging. WAY more fun!

What are some of your favorite things?

In my healthy years I loved to hike, bike, cross-country ski, gardening, canning, shoveling snow (yes, that's true!), and camping. Now I’m more into reading, crocheting, silk ribbon embroidery for wedding gifts, and cooking. I love the older movies, Sound of Music, Holiday Inn, It’s a Wonderful Life, The Ten Commandments, and my favorite, Anne of Green Gables. Anne Shirley is such a delight. I’ve done some traveling with my husband to Arizona where our son went to college, the Grand Canyons, and Wyoming.

  

Which genre most appeals to you, and why?

My most favorite genre is legal thrillers, as I’m a paralegal, and I like to see the twists and turns of the courtroom. And yes, they really do get crazy in the courtroom. In 2008, Margaret Daley informed me of the ACFW meeting here in the Minneapolis area, so my genre opened up to historical novels, romance, and love-inspired romance, along with one fantasy book! Some of my favorite authors are Francine Rivers, Bodie Thoene, Margaret Daley, James Scott Bell, Randy Singer, earlier books of John Grisham, Brandilyn Collins, Julie Lessman, Eugenia Price, plus many, many more.

What advice do you have for other book bloggers?
 
Blog about the books you enjoy and would want others to read also. If they helped you grow in any way, share that in your blog. The whole goal of blogging, for me, is to promote books that redeem, reconcile, and forgive in relation to God and others. Be honest in your reviews. Authors put hours into researching and writing for our pleasure and to help people to grow spiritually. Applaud their hard work and style of writing. If you don’t like a book, you have the choice to not blog about it, or to give your critique in a gentle way. Be on time as much as possible for the tours and promises to influence a book. Above all, have fun!

Thanks, Linda, for joining us here at Winning Readings today!

BULLETIN BOARD

No linky today, but be sure to pop by Onedesertrose's Blog and say hi!  Nominations for future Winning Blogs are always welcome.

Have a blessed weekend!

4 the Love of Books

This week's Spotlight falls on:

Abi at 4 The Love of Books

and The Lighter Side

Welcome Abi!!!

Why don't we start out with you telling us about yourself...

I'm a pastor's wife. Mom of two teenage girls. I love to sew, do crafts, and of course read. I have my Elementary Education degree and ND state certificate. We homeschool. Before the girls came along I did substitute teaching in the Public Schools.

How would you describe your blog?

My book blog is the one I'm sure you are referring to. I post book reviews, author interviews, book giveaways and any thing that is reading related. I think reading is very important. I still read aloud to my 14 almost 15 year old.

How long have you been blogging? How/why did you get started?

I first started blogging with my personal blog Lighter Side. In July of 2007 I posted crafts, sewing things, every day life, and few book reviews here and there. Then in April 2008 I got into Book reviewing first was with ICRR (Inspirational Christian Romance Reader) judging contest. That whet my whistle to get into doing more book reviews. By the end of April I connected with Bonnie @ CFBA about doing book reviews and it grew from there so I opened up my Book blog 4 the LOVE of BOOKS. The rest is history; I've been managing two sites since Dec. of 2007. So I guess in about three more weeks I'll have my three year anniversary of blogging.

Happy Anniversary!!

Which genres do you prefer to read?

I prefer Christian, but I will read non-Christian if it is clean. I love any adult, YA, childrens. I'll read romance, historical, SIC FI, adventure, mystery, suspense. I don't like curse words, and real gross gruesome things. I think I can only count two maybe three books that I got into and the curse words were so bad I just gave up reading them. So not bad odds for 3 years of reading.

Name some of your favorites?

ie) books, characters, food, beverage, movies, tv shows, seasons, vacations, animal, whatever, etc...

Well, chocolate is always a favorite. I love Cheetos and Doritos. Pretzels and popcorn and nuts rank high too. Pepsi hands down. I make my own coffee mix using creamer, sweetener, and vanilla extract. My favorite season would be spring or fall. I love color and lots of it. Pooh Bear is a fun character. movies--love christian ones. I have all Janet Oke movies and I believe all of her books that she's written alone. Now she writes with a partner. I like Beverly Lewis and Wanda Brunstetter. My daughter has gotten me hooked on Tracie Peterson. I love humor books too. I read Sandra Bricker this winter, The Big 5-Oh! Loved it! I love the Anne of Green Gable movies. love musicals and classics are wonderful. I guess I'd have to say I'm a dog lover though at the present we don't have one. We've had birds and fish we can't keep alive. I don't do mice or snakes they are out of the question. Gerbils and hamsters are pushing it.

Do you have a favorite scripture or a life verse? If so what is it (and why, if you want to get into it!?)

Oh, the Bible is full of wonderful scriptures. It all can be applied to our lives even today. In my senior year in HS I used Psalm 16:11 Thou wilt show me the path of life: in thy presence is fullness of joy; at thy right hand there are pleasures for evermore. There are just too many good ones to narrow it down. There are different verses for different problems and issues we find ourselves in. I'm sorry the Bible is not an out dated book and I love the KJV I can understand it quite well with its thees and thous. I don't need anyone to interpret it for me. Music I love classical or easy instrumental to listen to in background. Love the gospel songs. The old hymns are the best they have a message if you pay attention to them you just can't beat their message.

What advice do you have to other book bloggers?

Find your niche and go for it. Love what you read. It shows in your blog.

Anything else you'd like to add?

I just thank you for this opportunity to spot light my blog. I feel very honored.

Thanks so much for your time Abi. It was wonderful getting to know you better!

Our Little Library

This week's spotlight falls on

Our Little Library

If you're looking for quality children's books, perhaps a little overwhelmed by the sheer volume of them and wanting some direction towards the best, Our Little Library is a great blog to follow!  It has highlighted many of my favorite authors and books and introduced me to many others...

Let's meet Stephanie, the author of Our Little Library...

How would you describe your blog?

As I wrote in my first post, I started my blog as a place where I could gush about all the great books I had found at library book sales, garage sales, and thrift stores. I was also interested in learning about the authors and illustrators of the books I loved. A personal goal of mine that I have really been reflecting on recently, was to discover what really makes a good book for the sake of my own children and hopefully other children as well.

How long have you been blogging?

I started Our Little Library in October 2009 after a huge library book sale. I found so many great books and they were so cheap that I couldn't contain myself!

Tell us a little about yourself:

I've moved around a lot - living in big cities and small towns on the east and west coast, the front range, and am now on an acreage in the great plains with my husband of 9 years and 5 children whom I homeschool. I'll probably never use my civil engineering degree again, but hope to eventually master my domestic engineering skills. We have laying hens, ducks, and the obligatory farm cat and are getting better each year at raising our own broilers and fresh produce.

What are some of your favorite things?

Obviously, I love books - especially beautifully illustrated children's books. My taste in music and movies is pretty eclectic, but if I had to pick a favorite genre, it would have to be big band swing from the 1930's for music and black & white classics like "You Can't Take It With You". Why? I think it has something to do with this idea: "...originality and genius must largely be fed and raised on the shoulders of some old tradition." George Santayana.

  

What advice do you have for other book bloggers?
 
I'm so new to this that I hardly feel it's my place to give any advice, especially when there are so many great bloggers doing a much better job than me. I guess I would encourage them not to give in to consumerism and fads and popular opinion, but to seek out what is true, good, and beautiful. Only the best for our children!

Thanks, Stephanie, for joining us here at Winning Readings today!

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BULLETIN BOARD

No linky today, but be sure to check out Our Little Library!  Here are a couple of my favorite recent posts:

• Booklists for Young Children
• More on Choosing Books

Nominations for future Winning Blogs are always welcome.

Have a blessed weekend!

Woven by Words

This week's spotlight falls on

Woven by Words

You'll find a lot of Christian fiction reviews on today's featured blog, Woven by Words, and some giveaways, too!
Let's meet Mimi, the author of Woven by Words...

How would you describe your blog?

Woven by Words was created to share Christian book reviews and the occasional giveaway. There are so many wonderful Christian authors out there for every genre and I wanted to make sure they were being featured as much as possible. I wanted a way to give back to these authors whom have blessed my life and given me wholesome and enjoyable reading. I also figured there were women, and some men, that didn't read any Christian authors and knew this would be a fantastic way to introduce them to the market.

How long have you been blogging?

I have been blogging since February '08. I made sure my site was private for my first couple of posts because I figured if my writing was excruciatingly horrible no one would be the wiser! I asked a couple of people, including Julie Lessman to read what I had written and they were very encouraging. Not that what I wrote was spectacular, but that I should keep at it. I'm still trying to find my writing voice. I have a spur of the moment sense of humor, but unfortunately, it doesn't always come across that way as I type, which is a bummer.

Tell us a little about yourself:

My kids and I live in Central Minnesota, where it just recently snowed (in May)! We've lived here for 12 yrs. I have 4 kids, 3 cats and a dog. I've been a Christian since I was 20 yrs old. I know that many would think I have some amazing Christian wisdom to share, but unfortunately that's not the case. Most times I'm still muddling through just like many others! I was a stay-at-home mom for 15 yrs and went back to work 3 yrs ago.

What are some of your favorite things?

I enjoy traveling, by car, to visit family. We don't get to do it as often as I'd like with all of our family being out of state. I also love gardening and mowing the yard. I just love the smell of fresh cut grass. Of course, reading is one of my favorite things to do and have tried to pass that love on to my children. Christian music has certainly changed for the better since I became Christian. I love Jeremy Camp, Casting Crowns, BarlowGirl, and so many more it's not even funny. My favorite movies are What About Bob?, Sliding Doors, and So, I Married An Axe Murderer. As for tv, I love The Amazing Race! I have watched nearly every season and nearly applied with my friend until she pulled out.

Which genre most appeals to you, and why?

I think my favorite genre in Christian fiction is historical. I can't say if I like Regency, Early American, etc as a specific favorite. I love the way they talked, the simplicity of a hard life, the Wild West, the purity of the time, the beauty of Europe and so many other reasons I can't even begin to list. Some of my favorite authors: Cathy Marie Hake, Julie Lessman, Julie Klassen, Linore Rose Burkard, T.L. Higley, Tracie Peterson, and Judith Miller. This list is only scratching the surface of historical authors Iove!

What advice do you have for other book bloggers?
 
If you have the opportunity, connect with authors. They are the people you are representing, along with their publishing house. There are so many wonderful people in the publishing world. If you are reviewing books, remember that you are getting FREE books for the purpose of reviewing. I know that sometimes people get upset if they don't get a book they were expecting and that can put a bad taste in the mouth of publishers and PR companies. We're all in this together and we need to remember that. I also think it's important to give away some of these books. When I first started reviewing, I couldn't picture giving away any of my precious books that I had received. Well, that is a huge draw for people on the internet and our job as reviewers is to get as much traffic to our book reviews as possible. A great way to do that is through giveaways! And there is so much joy that I have in giving these books away, I would highly suggest it!

Thanks, Mimi, for joining us here at Winning Readings today!  (And I love your thoughts on giveaways!)
 
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BULLETIN BOARD

No linky today, but be sure to stop by Woven by Words to say hi!

Nominations for future Winning Blogs are always welcome.

Have a blessed weekend!

Welcome To Our Wonderland

This week's spotlight falls on

Welcome To Our Wonderland

If you're interested in helping your child love reading, then Welcome To Our Wonderland is a blog for you.  Here you'll get to follow along as Gidget and Froggi make some awesome book-related crafts, like these Footprint Tulips to go with Tia the Tulip Fairy.  And there are lots of family-friendly adult book reviews, too.

Let's meet the author of Welcome To Our Wonderland...

How would you describe your blog?

My blog is mainly about children's books (with some adult book reviews thrown in for good measure). I love to post a book and activity or sometimes a whole day's worth of lessons to extend the book adventure into a whole learning opportunity.

What is the mission of your blog?

Its mission is to show that you can do so much more with books after reading them to your kids. Books are just a stepping stone into a whole world of learning!

How long have you been blogging?

I have been blogging at blogger since April 2007. Wow - that long! It doesn't seem like that long.

Tell us a little about yourself:

I'm a stay at home mom to 2 girls:  9 and 4 years old. I taught in the Preschool setting for over 11 years. I taught in many different settings, from Montessori to Pre-k Art teacher. I loved it and love seeing my girls learn and explore and being there for the magical learning moments! So Welcome to Our Wonderland, and join our magical book adventures where books take you to magical places.

What are some of your favorite things?

Books:  For adult books: Unspeakable Journey, Beaded Hope and A Tree Grows In Brooklyn. Favorite children's books: Kitten's First Full Moon, The Inkheart series and all the NARNIAs.
Movies: Titanic, Alice In Wonderland (Tim Burton version), and anything with Johnny Depp or Leonardo DiCaprio
Music: This is all over the board.  I like Dance, Grunge, Christian, 80's and 90's - you should see my XM buttons - it is big variety! I like most types of music except Metal or that techno stuff.
Travel destinations:  I'd LOVE to go to Australia, Italy, Scotland, Wales, New Zealand, and Ireland (back to Ireland; I've been when I was real little).
 
I love to do art with my girls (they are more talented than me by a long shot, but I still have fun). I love to be outside: hiking, playing or just reading books. I love to find new vegetarian recipes. I'm the only vegetarian so I love challenging myself and making 1 dish 2 ways that we will all love!

Which genre most appeals to you, and why?

I love children's books and Christian fiction.  I've read Teen to Adult Fiction. My girls are all over the genre board. I think having and reading a variety to kids will help them find what they truly love and will find a place in the literature world to become their own bookworms. By making reading fun, you make it easier for kids to pick a book over a video game.

What advice do you have for other book bloggers?
 
This one is a hard one. Following your heart and blogging about the books you love is the only real advice I have. When you feel overwhelmed, take a break, and don't feel like you have to blog everyday! Build a great reader base and your readers will stay with you through thick and thin.
 
Number 1 rule for me is to keep blogging Fun and not ever feel it's a job!

Thanks, Gidget and Froggi's Mom, for joining us here at Winning Readings today!
 
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BULLETIN BOARD

No linky today, but be sure to stop by Welcome To Our Wonderland to say hi!

Nominations for future Winning Blogs are always welcome.

Have a blessed weekend!

Thoughts of a Sojourner

This week's spotlight falls on

Thoughts of a Sojourner

Today's introduction is to Mark, who authors the blog Thoughts of a Sojourner.  I was blessed to run into his blog early on in my book blogging adventure, and I appreciate his candid book reviews and thoughts on the Christian book industry in general.

How would you describe your blog?
I originally started blogging to write about what was on my mind - things about family, church, serving God, etc. After a while, I got started reviewing Christian books, and that has pretty much become the focus of my blog. I still blog about those other things, but not as often.

I got the name of my blog, Thoughts of a Sojourner, from a song titled "I Don't Belong", which talks about as Christians, we don't belong here on earth, but are "foreigners singing a sojourner's song." I always loved the song, and that phrase, so I used it as my blog name..

How long have you been blogging?
I have been blogging for about 5 years. I started on Xanga, then moved to Blogger.

Tell us about yourself:
Not much to tell. :-) I'm single, Christian, think I have a good sense of humor - love to tell jokes and funny stories. Currently working at a grocery store. I have no kids of my own, but have 3 nieces and 3 nephews that I am crazy about. I play the piano, but rarely nowadays.

What are some of your favorite things?
I love anything to do with the Chronicles of Narnia, including the two movies that have been recently made.

My favorite style of music is Southern Gospel - favorite artists are the Booth Brothers, Gaither Vocal Band, Jeff & Sheri Easter, the Hoppers.

In books, my favorites would probably be the Redemption series by Karen Kingsbury.

Travel destinations - the Outer Banks of North Carolina and Lancaster County, PA are favorite vacation spots.

Which genre most appeals to you, and why?

In music - Southern Gospel. I love the country sound, and country music lyrics just don't do much for me, so the obvious choice is Southern Gospel.

In books - suspense/mystery. I grew up reading and re-reading the Hardy Boys books and anything similar. As an adult, I still love that genre, but don't read much secular due to language, etc, so it has been great how many Christian suspense/mystery novels there are now.

What advice do you have for other book bloggers?
Try to review books that interest you.

Be honest, but kind. I firmly believe in being honest, and if there are things I don't like in a book, I will say so, but will also try to find something good, and to be kind about what I didn't like.

Get a facebook and Twitter account and link your blog to them. It helps draw more traffic to your blog.

Comment on other people's blogs - that also helps draw more traffic.

Thanks, Mark, for sharing with us!  Oh, by the way, Happy Birthday!

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BULLETIN BOARD

No linky today, but be sure to stop by Mark's blog to say hi (and Happy Birthday)!

Nominations for future Winning Blogs are always welcome.

Have a blessed weekend!

Inspired by Fiction

This week's spotlight falls on

Inspired by Fiction

Let me officially introduce you to Megan, who not only has been instrumental in posting giveaway info here at Winning Readings, but also authors the blog Inspired by Fiction.

How would you describe your blog?
It is a place where I can share my knowledge and love of books. It is mostly comprised of book reviews and book related posts. Although I will also post about life experiences, devotional thoughts, lessons I've learned, etc.

When did you start blogging?
January 2010, after the book store that I had been working at for the past 8 years closed.\

Why did you start blogging?
I started because I wanted something new, now that I was a stay-at-home mom.

Tell us about yourself:
My name is Megan. I am a born-again Christian. Jesus is my Savior and my Lord. I hope to know Him better and love Him more each day of my life. I am married to a wonderful Slovak man (great accent!!) We have two children a daughter who will be 5 next month and a son who is 3. I have a twin sister and a little brother and we all live within 15 minutes of my parents!! My brother has many special needs, so I really have a heart for that population and I dream of one day having a successful program serving them and their families through the church. Right now, I volunteer as a Sunday school teacher and AWANA leader at church, and I am helping plan our first ever women's retreat. I love dancing, but don't get to do it that often anymore! One of these days, I'll convince my husband to take me again! And of course, I love reading!

Which genre most appeals to you, and why?
Christian fiction...but within that I like pretty much anything: romance, chick lit, suspense, mystery, fantasy, speculative, drama, humor, historical, contemporary, whatever! My favorites are the ones that really challenge me to make changes whether in action or in thought.

What are some of your favorite things?
Books:  Mark of the Lion Trilogy by Francine Rivers; This Present Darkness by Frank Peretti; The Circle Trilogy by Ted Dekker
Books in 2010 (so far):  Not a Sparrow Falls by Linda Nichols; Veiled Freedom by Jeannette Windle; Heroes of Quantico series by Irene Hannon
Movies:  Life is Beautiful; Pure Country
TV shows:  West Wing
Sports:  to watch--Olympics; to participate--Dancing!!
Food: Chocolate Sheet cake (especially the icing!!); Roast beef dinner; Artichoke dip; Raspberries
Beverage:  Diet Dr Pepper
Color:  Teal or aqua; Color combo:  brown with teal or brown with pink
Animal:  Dolphin (I got to spend a week at the Dolphin Reed in Eilat, Israel studying dolphin assisted therapy. I was able to snorkel and scuba dive with the dolphins. It was really cool!)
Vacation:  Beach
Season:  I thought I could pick one, but there is something I love about each one...leaves, new growth, sun, snow...
Dream house:  One with a window seat where i can sit and read :) I don't care if it looks out over trees, or a field of flowers, the ocean, or a big backyard, whatever!
Female fictional Character:  Hadassah from Mark of the Lion
Male fictional Character:  Jamie from Outlander series (secular fiction)

I love the feel of sand on my toes. I love watching the leaves change colors. And I love when the trees have frozen over and the ice on the branches sparkles in the sun. I love to hear my kids laugh, to see them loving each other, learning and growing!

Do you have a life-verse?  If so, what is it and why?
Mine, I suppose changes depending on what I am going through at the time.

The most consistent one are Jer 29:11-13, 2 Chron 7:14-16, and Phil 3:7-14.  But right now I'd also include: Psalm 139, and (this one is a little humorous, but I am trying to lose weight, so Proverbs 23:1-3 which says "when you sit to dine with a ruler, note carefully what is set before you and put a knife to your throat if you are given to gluttony, do not crave his delicacies for that food is deceptive." (OUCH) See my favorite foods...sugary or fatty!

What advice do you have for other book bloggers?
Just have fun with it!

Do you have a question for other book bloggers and readers?
What do you like to see in book reviews?  What aspects of the book do you want discussed, etc...

Thanks, Megan, for sharing with us!  It's good to have you in the blogging world!

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BULLETIN BOARD

No linky today, but we'd love to hear your answers to Megan's question in the comments.  And stop by her blog to say hi!

Nominations for future Winning Blogs are always welcome.

Have a blessed weekend!