Storyteller's Journey

International Day of Peace

Each year on September 21st, the holiday dedicated to world peace is observed. Click here to learn more.


As writers of children's books we are constantly admonished to include themes in our stories that resonate with young readers. I've been working on a fantasy series for years in which the overarching theme is peace. I believe that the only way we can possibly attain a measure of peace in our world is to find peace in our individual lives. Thus, my MG character Livvi Biddle (whose first name means peace), must discover how to make peace with her own set of circumstances and in so doing, ultimately makes an impact on the world, ushering in an era of peace.

At this time in history where we find ourselves in what seems like constant chaos, it's more important than ever to work at finding peace in our own lives, and in our relationships. Happy World Peace Day!

Whimsical Word of the Week

Insuperable - (adj.)
(of a difficulty or obstacle) impossible to overcome.
Example: The babysitter found the task of keeping the children under control insuperable.

Bibliophile's Corner

Ocean Meets Sky
The Fan Brothers

Flap Copy Description:
It’s a good day for sailing.Finn lives by the sea and the sea lives by him. Every time he looks out his window it’s a constant reminder of the stories his grandfather told him about the place where the ocean meets the sky. Where whales and jellyfish soar and birds and castles float.

Finn’s grandfather is gone now but Finn knows the perfect way to honor him. He’ll build his own ship and sail out to find this magical place himself!

And when he arrives, maybe, just maybe, he’ll find something he didn’t know he was looking for.

My Thoughts:
A stunningly beautiful picture book by the Fan Brothers. The magical Ocean Meets Sky will inspire little ones to dream and imagine. A delightful wonder to add to your child's library; it's now in mine!

Click here to learn more about the talented Fan Brothers.

Storyteller's Journey

The Columbia River Gorge from Hood River, Oregon

What a Summer!

The last three months for me included: A writer retreat; a book signing event; a backyard write-out; and hours in my creative studio working on my current project!

(The photo above is from a weekend trip I took with my husband, Michael.)

Click here to read my recent quarterly newsletter.

Hope you have a fantastic fall season, full of writing and reading!

Whimsical Word of the Week

Hegemony (n.)
leadership or dominance, especially by one country or social group over others.
Example: The king was known for his malevolent hegemony over the simple subjects of his empire.

Bibliophile's Corner

Almost Autumn
by Marianne Kaurin

Flap Copy Description:
As Autumn approaches Ilse Stern is thinking about her infatuation with Hermann Rod, and whether his determination to be a painter will interfere with their romance -- but the reality of being Jewish in occupied Oslo is about to turn her whole world upside down, as the deportation of Norwegian Jews begins. 




My Thoughts:
This evocative young adult novel offers a riveting story set in Norway during World War II. It's a unique tale of historical fiction about the Holocaust; one of shadows and secrets, love and loss. The lyrical prose and character development by Ms. Kaurin are exquisite. I highly recommend Almost Autumn for readers aged twelve and up!

Click here to learn more about the author, Marianne Kaurin.

Storyteller's Journey

It's Time for Summer Vacation!

Like most of you, I'm excited to spend some time outside in the sunshine this summer. So, I'll be taking my annual summer break from blogging. I'll be back on Writ of Whimsy in September. Have a sensational summer season!

Click here to view my recent quarterly newsletter.