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Books and Authors
Friday, 22 August 2008
Meet Patrick and Grace
Topic: Character Interviews

Rememer when I promised you a new feature here at Books and Authors?  Well, today we have the first of what I hope to be many character interviews.  Both writers and readersd spend hours with the characters that live between book covers--here is your chance to meet some of them!!!

Without further delay, I am pleased to bring the interview I ha with Patrick and Grace, who tell their stories time and again through Janet Elaine Smith!!

1.  Can you tell us your name and the title of the book you live in?

Grace: My name is Grace Johnson, and I live in all of the Patrick and Grace Mysteries by Janet Elaine Smith.

Patrick: Hey, don't forget me! MY name is Patrick O'Malley, and they are the PATRICK and Grace Mysteries. I get top billing-NOT!

2.  Describe to our readers what your role in the book is.

Grace: I'm the one with all the brains when it comes to solving crimes. Patrick has that typical "cop's gut instinct," but it takes me to figure out how to put it to practical use. Oh, and to get us out of all the trouble he gets us into.

Patrick: Don't you believe a word of it! Over 35 years on the force of New York's finest, and that's all the credit I get? If we left it up to Gracie all the time, we'd both be 6' under by now!

3.  How did you convince your author to put you in this book?  For example, did you visit a dream or make yourself known some other way?

Grace: Janet knew a lot about homeless people, since she and Ivan worked with Mission Socorro for a long time. So, when she saw me wandering around on the streets of New York City with no place to go, she figured I was a good candidate for explaining what homeless people really go through.

Patrick: Yeah, and shore an' b'gory, she had to drag me into it to come to Gracie's rescue. I mean, the poor little thing didn't even know the proper way to feed the birds in Central Park.

4.  Is your author easy to work with or controlling?

Grace: Ha! Now that's funny! She thought she could control us, but it didn't take more than the first few pages for us to let her know who was REALLY in charge!

Patrick: (patting Gracie's hand lovingly) I have to agree with you on that one, Gracie. She's just a patsy for what we want to say and what we want to do.

5.  Would you tell us about one of your favorite friends from this book?

Gracie: Well, for me it would have to be Mrs. D. (That's short for Mrs. Douglas.) Actually, both of the Douglas's are pretty special, even though we got off to a pretty bumpy start.

Patrick: Ya just gotta love the dear ol' priest from St. Patrick's Cathedral. God help us if he ever departs. That young one, he's okay, but he doesn't know the ropes like old Father O'Brien. I think he's got a direct line to heaven. Lord knows, he needs it, when it comes to keeping Gracie out of trouble. Like the rat poison in the rectory...oh, shucks, just read the book!

6.  Do you plan on appearing in another book or are you happy to be where you are?

Patrick: We're already in three of them, but Janet's got plans for dragging us all over the country. I hear we're going to Disneyworld and Six Flags over Georgia next. If you look at our website (of course we have our own!) at http://crumbycapers.tripod.com/ I think she has a whole list of what she plans to do with us. Just wait till we get in there and spice it up a little. <vbg>

Gracie: I never flew in an airplane in my life until I met Patrick. Now I can't wait 

 For our next great adventure.

7.  What would you like our readers to know about you?

Gracie: Probably that we are just like them. Land a'Goshen, Janet gets letters and e-mails from people all the time, wanting to know why she patterned me after them.

Patrick: Yeah, and that's from people she doesn't even know! I just want them to know that life isn't over at retirement. That's when the fun begins!

8.  Did you learn anything during your adventure in this book?

Gracie: How to take orders.

Patrick: Ha! That'll be the day!

9.  Can you tell us what you think is the most exciting thing that happened to you in your book?

Gracie: I really like the way Janet made me into my own person. I'd been somebody's wife or somebody's mama for so long, I'd forgotten there was a real me underneath.

Patrick: I think for me it was probably that Father O'Brien was right when he said "Things aren't always what they seem to be." As a cop, I learned to make quick judgments on things, but sometimes that can lead to problems, especially when it comes to people. Like Vince Bellazoni-who'd a thunk one day I'd actually almost like the fellow?

10.  Is there anything in your story you wish you had not done? Why?

Gracie: Kept in closer contact with my kids, even if they didn't understand or trust me to make my own decisions. There's nothing better than family. I'm sure glad they came around at the end of the first book though.

Patrick: No, but there's something I wish Gracie hadn't done. That's her infernal refusal to tie the knot with me. Just how long can a guy hold on when she keeps on saying, "No, but I'm thinking about it." Enough thinking already!

11.  What was your main motivation?

Gracie: To prove I could make it "on my own."

Patrick: To prove that I still had it when it came to solving a real mystery.

12.  Introduce us to your main adversary?

Gracie: Myself.

Patrick: Vince Bellazoni, no question about it.

13.  Is there anything you would like to have done but your author stopped you?

Gracie: No. Like I said, we pretty much ran the show.

Patrick: That's right. If we want to do something, we dang well are gonna do it.

14.  Here's your chance to speak your mind.  What do you want to tell everybody?

Gracie: For me, it's that when the chips are down, dig in with both feet and pull yourself up out of the mire. You never know what's on the other side of the mud puddle. And I sure hope people who read about us discover that things like being homeless could happen to anybody, but you can make the best of a bad situation if you set your mind to it.

Patrick: Simple. Just watch for our next book. Janet says the title will be "Ma Fia's Murder Mystery."

15.  Please tell everyone where they can find out more about your story and where they can purchase it.

Patrick: (looking at Grace with pleading eyes) May I, Gracie?

Gracie: Go ahead.

Patrick: We're all over the place. You can find us at almost any online store and in scads of regular bookstores all over the country. If you want to get a taste of what it's all about, come on over for a peek at the first chapter at all three books at http://crumbycapers.tripod.com/ . Or if you want to do it a different way, you can find the same thing at http://janetesmithstarbooks.tripod.com/ or http://www.janetelainesmith.com/. She even gave us our own page on that one. There is a link at all three places that will take you to a spot where you can order the books directly by just clicking on our covers. Ha! We're "undercover senior sleuths!"

 


Posted by joyceanthony at 2:20 AM EDT
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Wednesday, 20 August 2008
Different Roads by Joyce Sterling Scarbrough --A Review
Different Roads
By Joyce Sterling Scarbrough
Published by Lightning Source Inc, 2006
ISBN 0972238530, 9780972238533
408 pages
SYNOPSIS:
How many of us wonder what might have been? After her mother's death, six-year-old Jaycee is neglected by her alcoholic father and decides she would rather be beaten than ignored. She grows up a foul-mouthed hellion who takes flack off no one, and she lives in fear of anyone finding out she is also a love-starved little girl terrified of being abandoned in the dark. Her intrepid spirit carries her forward until she is tripped up in college by a poor little rich boy who turns out to be the male version of herself. Jaycee and Bud are an emotional paradox: drawn together because they're so much alike and constantly at war for the same reason. They fight as frequently and as physically as they make love, hurting each other even as they become two halves of a whole. Jaycee's rollercoaster life with Bud is gritty, touching and funny, and just when she thinks she's made it safely to the end of the ride, her childhood and her first love come back to derail her.
REVIEW:
Rarely does a character in a book jump into my heart from the first page.  Jaycee, the main character in Different Roads, written by Joyce Sterling Scarbrough, was one of those rare characters.  She grabbed me from the first paragraph and hasn't let go since.
Ms. Scarbrough has a writing style that draws the reader in quickly and keeps the interest  until the very end.  Not one to read many romances, I was a bit skeptical at first.  This is no ordinary mushy romance novel, however; the relationship between the two main characters is passionate and fraught with more twists and turns than a Class Five hurricane. 
As I followed Jaycee and Bud through their relationship, I laughed loudly and cried hard.  At one point I was glad Joyce Scarbrough wasn't near because I wasn't sure if I'd hug her for writing such a powerful book or strangle her for causing such an emotional upheaval within me.  The characters are so real, the feelings so true-to-life, you will forget you are reading a book and actually feel you know the people involved.
This book deals with some heavy topics, but does so with skill and finesse.  Ms. Scarbrough understand completely the inner workings of her characters and helps the reader understand as well.  Her understanding of human nature is exceptional.
If you are looking for a mere quick read, this isn't a book for you.  If, however, you want a story that draws you deeply within the story and allows you to feel the emotions fully, this is a must-read.  You will not regret for one moment buying and reading Different Roads. I will caution readers--be prepared for an emotion journey unlike any you have experienced.

Posted by joyceanthony at 3:47 AM EDT
Updated: Wednesday, 20 August 2008 3:55 AM EDT
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Monday, 18 August 2008
Give Your Characters a Voice
Topic: Author Interview

I am now ready to start a new feature on here--don't worry, this is in addition to the author interviews, blog tours, book reviews, etc.. you have all come to know and love :-) 

Writers all know how much their characters love to talk--so it is time to allow them a voice outside their book covers.  Pick a character from one of your books (okay--no limit to the number of character interviews, but they will be spread out to make it fair!) and have them answer the following questions--then send the completed questions to rainbow@velocity.net with the words Character Interview in the subject space.

Have fun everyone!!!!

 

  1. Can you tell us your name and the title of the book you live in?
  2. Describe to our readers what your role in the book is.
  3. How did you convince your author to put you in this book?  For example, did you visit a dream or make yourself known some other way?
  4. Is your author easy to work with or controlling?
  5. Would you tell us about one of your favorite friends from this book?
  6. Do you plan on appearing in another book or are you happy to be where you are?
  7. What would you like our readers to know about you?
  8. Did you learn anything during your adventure in this book?
  9. Can you tell us what you think is the most exciting thing that happened to you in your book?
  10. Is there anything in your story you wish you had not done? Why?
  11. What was your main motivation?
  12. Introduce us to your main adversary?
  13. Is there anything you would like to have done but your author stopped you?
  14. Here's your chance to speak your mind.  What do you want to tell everybody?
  15. Please tell everyone where they can find out more about your story and where they can purchase it.

Posted by joyceanthony at 12:17 AM EDT
Updated: Monday, 18 August 2008 12:18 AM EDT
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Sunday, 17 August 2008
The Name Game
Topic: Miscellaneous

Lacresha Hayes ( http://learntofeelpretty.blogspot.com ) went and tagged me again!!!  Here is a fun name challenge--I hope everyone leaves me a comment with their "names" :-)

1. Your real name: Joyce

2. Your Gangsta name(first 3 letters of real name plus izzle): Joyizzle

3. Your Detective name:(fave color and fave animal) Yellow Tiger

4. Your Soap Opera name:(your middle name and street you live on) Ann East

5. Your Star Wars name:(the first 3 letters of your last name, first 2 letters of your first name) Antjo

6. Your Superhero name:(your 2ND favorite color, and favorite drink) Black Nofear

7. Your Iraqi name:(2ND letter of your first name, 3rd letter of your last name, 1st letter of your middle name, 2ND letter of your moms maiden name, 3rd letter of your dads middle name, 1st letter of a siblings first name, and last letter of your moms middle name) Otaursn

8. Your Witness Protection name:(parents middle names) Ann Gerald

9. Your Goth name:(black, and the name of one of your pets) Hmmm...Black Sam/ Black Venus/ Black Spirit...the rest just sound strange :-)

 


Posted by joyceanthony at 4:22 PM EDT
Updated: Sunday, 17 August 2008 4:26 PM EDT
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Saturday, 16 August 2008
The Enemy Between My Legs by Stephanie L. Jones -- A Review
Topic: Book Review

In a perfect world, no child should have to suffer the pain of sexual abuse.  Unfortunately, our world is far from perfect; one of every three females and one of every five males has been a victim of childhood sexual abuse.  Often this abuse is at the hands of the very people responsible for a child's safety--parents, grandparents, uncles and aunts. 

Stephanie L. Jones was herself a victim of childhood sexual abuse.  In her book, The Enemy Between My Legs, Ms. Jones relates her story.  She then continues on to share details of what occurs in the aftermath of such abuse.  In a no-nonsense language, Stephanie Jones details the varied reactions of those who were victimized.  She tells readers how they can help keep their own children safe. 

Finally, Ms.  Jones shares with readers how she overcame the pain of her early abuse, and was able to forgive those who violated her.  She shares how her love of God has enabled her to move past the pain and learn to love herself.

What struck me the most about this book is the no-nonsense way in which Stephanie L. Jones reveals some surprising reasons why some children don't tell when they are being abused.  Unlike many books that portray child molestors as the dirty old man down the street, Ms. Jones tells how some molestors are children themselves.  She points out the stark realities without malice or blame. 

When you finish The Enemy Between My Legs you will view those around you with a different outlook.  You will more easily recognize a child who needs help and, for those who have been victimized, you will feel a new hope within that your soul can be healed.  This is a must-read for anyone who has a child in their life.

For more information on The Enemy Between My Legs, or to purchase a copy, visit http://www.amazon.com/Enemy-Between-My-Legs/dp/097945560X


Posted by joyceanthony at 3:03 AM EDT
Updated: Saturday, 16 August 2008 3:07 AM EDT
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Friday, 15 August 2008
Wai-Nani by Linda Ballou--A Review
Topic: Book Review

Wai-Nani is like no other book I have ever read.  Linda Ballou is a master of language, pulling the reader in and evoking emotions hidden deep within. Her imagery is breathtaking, allowing your senses to experience the entire story.

Passionate and primal, Wai-Nani transports you to the early days of Hawaii, where warriors ruled and women were expected to know their place.

Wai-Nani refuses to be bound by the shakles of society and follows her heart--finding a destiny beyond her wildest dreams. Follow her--no, join her--on this incredible journey.


Posted by joyceanthony at 12:01 AM EDT
Updated: Friday, 15 August 2008 5:41 AM EDT
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Thursday, 14 August 2008
Meet Dottie and Author Donna Shepherd
Topic: Author Interview

 

Here's the blog for Dotty:

http://www.dottystopsytale.blogspot.com/
There's a cute coloring page for kids on the blog
http://search.barnesandnoble.com/Dottys-Topsy-Tale/Donna-Shepherd/e/9780981453262/?itm=1
Donna Shepherd the person:

 

 

1.      What three words do you think describe you as a human being?

 

Spiritual, Faithful, Honest. 

 

 

2.      How do you think others would describe you?

 

Well, I really didn’t know so I asked some friends! I liked this answer the best: Mega-creative, Musically-gifted, Super-funny. (I have sweet friends.)

 

 

 

3.      Please tell us what you are most passionate about outside of writing.

 

In the past few years, I’ve stepped out of my comfort zone and began speaking at conferences, churches, and meetings. If I’m speaking in a church setting, I begin by singing, which actually puts me more at ease. I’m loving this new venture!

 

4.  Do you have any pets?  If so, introduce us to them.

 

Do we ever! We never have fewer than three dogs running around. We have Angel, a toy poodle (who thinks she’s boss even if she is the smallest!), Ariel, a Boston Terrier (who snores as loud as any 200 lb. man!) and Sadie, my gigantic Labradoodle who’s the sweetest of them all.

 

5.  What is your most precious memory?

 

My most precious memories are the births of my children. I have to smile every time I think of my tiny girl followed two years later by my big, red-headed boy. What fun times we had when they were toddlers, and we still delight in each other’s company to this day.

 

6.  What is your most embarrassing memory?

 

That’s a difficult one. I’ve had many. One that comes to mind is the time I wore two different shoes to church. Not just different colors, but different styles, too!

 

7.  If you weren’t a writer, what would you be doing with your life?

 

When I was younger (much!), I thought I’d travel and sing gospel music. I ended up marrying someone who wanted to be a pastor. So now, I sing and play the piano at our church.

 

8.      In two paragraphs or less write your obituary.

 

Hmm…not so sure I like answering this one! Let’s see. Donna was a vibrant, creative woman who’s now dancing on the streets of heaven, and singing around God’s throne.

 

Donna Shepherd the writer: 

 

9.  Can you describe the time you realized you were indeed a “real” writer?

 

I felt like the ‘real children’s writer’ when I received a note from a parent telling me that his two children had fought over my book, “Topsy Turvy Land,” and that the youngest one slept with it under his pillow.

 

10.  What is going on with your writing these days?

 

Many days I feel torn between two worlds – writing for grownups and writing for children. On the children’s front, I have another children’s book coming out soon, and one being illustrated now. Two others are ‘out there’ in the wide world of submissions, and I’m putting the finishing touches on another one now. In the grownup world, I am a columnist for The Dabbling Mum, NABBW, and write children’s devotionals for CWAHM. On top of all this, I’m teaching “Greater Harvest Workshops” for writers and speakers. Can you tell I like to stay busy?

11.  What are your future goals for your writing?

 

I’m compiling a collection of children’s poetry I’d like to see in print one day, and have several picture books in varying stages of completion. My dream is to see a book of devotionals on the bookshelves, either for grownups or children.

 

12.   Can you describe a typical writing day for you?

 

I work at home doing data input for a real estate appraisal company so I’m at the computer daily. It’s convenient because I can keep a file open and type ideas throughout the day. When I have a deadline, I shut my email down (I’m too obsessed with checking it!) so I can focus. I have a journal someone bought for me that I bought tabs for with labels for the different areas in which I write. When I’m away from the computer, I jot things down in my notebook. I’m afraid I’m on an endless and futile quest to get organized, so every day is different.

13.  Why do you write?

 

There are few times as joyful as when I complete a devotional, article, or poem, and then know that someone else receives encouragement, enjoyment, or instruction from my work. It’s during those times that I feel God, the Creator, is pleased that I’m taking after my Father, in being creative.

 

14.  What writer most inspires you?  Why?

 

As a young girl, I read a biography about Joni, a girl who had become a quadriplegic after a diving accident. Today Joni Eareckson Tada is an best-selling author, speaker, radio host (with over a million listeners), and disability advocate. She has spent long months learning how to paint with a brush between her teeth. Her highly detailed fine art paintings and prints are sought after and collected. When I think of all Joni has accomplished, I’m inspired.

15.  How do you define your writing?

 

When I asked people to describe me in three words, passionate and compassionate were used often. I write with enthusiasm and as a service, hoping that my words will serve a purpose, bringing joy and hope to readers.

 

16.  In one sentence—what do you want people to say about your writing in fifty years?

 

Like every other writer I know, I’d like it said that I made a difference in some way, that my writing encouraged, entertained and brought laughter to grownups and children.

 

Donna Shepherd the details: 

 

17.  Can you tell us where to find more information on you? Website?  Blog?

 

My website: http://www.donnajshepherd.com

I have several blogs, but the ‘official’ blog for Topsy Tales is: http://www.topsyturvyland.com

 

18.  Is there a place where readers can reach you?

 

On my blog, I have a ‘contact me’ page. Feel free to write.


19.  Can you list all your book titles so people can look for them?

 

My three books for children in print are:

Topsy Turvy Land (Hidden Pictures Publishing)

No More Gunk & OUCH! Sunburn (Guardian Angel Publishing)

Dotty’s Topsy Tale (Living Waters Publishing)

 

No More Gunk! is available as an ebook by itself as is Ouch! Sunburn. Another one, The Lonely Lightning Bug, is available in ebook form as well – all through Guardian Angel Publishing’s website or Fictionwise.com.

 

20.  For new readers—what can they expect when they read your book(s)?

  In Topsy Turvy Land, you’ll visit a place of peace and whimsy where green monkeys and singing snakes live. Children have fun searching for the hidden hearts and exploring the "what ifs" of creation. What if colors were different? What if snakes could sing?

In No More Gunk & OUCH! Sunburn, you get a Double Doozie - two books in one! Short, playful rhymes and Kevin Scott Collier's humorous illustrations help children learn in a fun way the importance of proper dental hygiene. Tooth Tips encourage children to take care of their teeth. In the bonus book, Ouch! Sunburn!, snappy rhymes, along with the 15 colorful and fun illustrations by Kevin Scott Collier, help children see the need to protect their skin in the sun. Sun Safety Tips in the back of the book reinforce the book's theme. This book is the first for a new imprint of Guardian Angel Publishing. The Health & Hygiene line will feature books teaching children about taking care of their bodies.

In Dotty’s Topsy Tale, the main character, a hot pink hippo, deals with the issue of discrimination and the angst of feeling ‘different.’ This story encourages children to look beyond the color of a person's (or a hippo's!) skin. Kevin Scott Collier brings pure genius to the book with his vibrant illustrations, especially with the final one which sums up the message in a unique and wonderful way. 

In conclusion:

 

 

21.  Take as much space as necessary to speak to our readers—what would you like them to know about you and your writing?

As writers, we are blessed to be able to create. And as a children's writer, sometimes I'm really blessed, and the words I write are illustrated with pictures. It's so much fun to see my words come to life.

I thank God every day for the joy of writing, and for allowing me the pleasure of seeing my words in print.  If you are an aspiring children’s writer, visit your local library or bookstore and read a variety of books for your target age group. Ask the children's librarian for recommendations. They know children’s interests and current trends in children's books. 

And no matter which genre you’re interested in, write. Set your mind on a target audience, and then write for ezines or magazines. Write articles, poetry, or a novel. Just write. Then submit. It won’t get published as a file on your computer or a notepad tucked away in a drawer. Writing is fun, but hard work. But did I mention how I feel about it? It’s fun!


Posted by joyceanthony at 1:55 AM EDT
Updated: Thursday, 14 August 2008 4:18 PM EDT
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Wednesday, 13 August 2008
Transforming Power -- A Review
Topic: Book Review

Transforming Power, was compiled to help today's leaders learn how to be the best possible leaders they can be.  It includes essays from some of the most inspiring leaders today. 

As I read through the essays that Hugh Ballou compiled, it struck me how different each leader thinks--yet how alike.  The sense of faith among these leaders is apparent throughout, yet the book is not a bit preachy.  If I had to use one word for this book, it would be "empowering". 

By the time I had read the last page, I felt confident that I too could be a transformational leader.  As you read the words within Transforming Power, you will get the feeling you are face-to-face with some of today's most inspirational leaders--and you got an inside track to all their secrets.

I dare anyone to read this book and not gain anything from it--I don't believe that is possible.

***

A SPECIAL BONUS TO EACH PERSON WHO PURCHASES TRANSFORMING POWER TODAY – Hugh Ballou has compiled a list of great FREE bonus gifts for anyone who purchases Transforming Power today. To see a sample of the items that are being given away, visit http://www.transforming-power.com. Just buy a copy of Transforming Power, return to this page and click to submit your invoice number to receive the web page link to download all of these gifts for FREE.


Posted by joyceanthony at 9:54 AM EDT
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Tuesday, 12 August 2008
Getting to Know Hugh Ballou
Topic: Author Interview
 

Hugh Ballou The Person:

1.   What three words do you think describe you as a human being?

Caring, feeling, fulfilling

2.   How do you think others would describe you?

Caring, loving, energizing

3.  Please tell us what you are most passionate about outside of writing.

Making a difference in peoples lives, especially in the lives of leaders and the who are in their care.

4.  Do you have any pets?  If so, introduce us to them.

Not at the present time, but I have had many dogs and cats who have been a major part of family life.

5.  What is your most precious memory?

Standing on the deck of my new home saying my vows to my new wife in front of 100 guests who were surprised we were having a wedding.

6.  What is your most embarrassing memory?

No Comment

7.  If you weren't a writer, what would you be doing with your life?

Training leaders - what I am already doing.
 

8.   In two paragraphs or less write your obituary.

Hugh Ballou was a caring person who helped others find their key to success. He worked with leaders of organizations to assist them in defining and implementing their vision.

In part of his life, Hugh was a performer training orchestras and choirs around the world. Having studied with some of the most influential conductors in the US, Hugh has been able to refine the principle leadership principles that have given organizations a new vision for building more effective systems. Hugh would be so proud to know that his inspiration has influenced leaders around the globe to breathe new life into old patterns of leadership.

Hugh Ballou The Writer:

9.  Can you describe the time you realized you were indeed a "real" writer?

Once I finished the first chapter of my first book, I realized that I could really do it! I could also be a writer. Not because I had a gift for writing, but because I had something worthwhile to say.

10.  What is going on with your writing these days?

I am publishing the 3rd printing of my first book, Moving Spirits, Building Lives: Church Musician as Transformational Leader.  I am writing a basic leadership book for transformational leaders that will apply to leaders in all types of organizations and a companion workbook to help readers utilize the lessons in a practical and effective manner. I also write articles to address specific challenges I encounter in my work with leaders. I edit the "Leadership Tools" edition of "Monday Morning Email" for Those Who Lead Worship Ministries.

11.  What are your future goals for your writing?

To publish DVD sets to accompany the 3 workbooks for leaders and to make my lessons available for online learning opportunities so leaders can study without the cost of travel and hotel and registration fee.

12.  Can you describe a typical writing day for you?

I plan the overall content of the book and then outline each chapter. I then schedule a time to write each piece of the book - not in order of the chapters, but in sync with what challenges I am facing as I help my clients. I schedule at least 2 writing days per week with specific goals.

13.  Why do you write?

To clarify my thinking, to share my knowledge to communicate what I do to others.

14.  What writer most inspires you?  Why?

The composer and conductor Ralph Vaughan Williams is quoted as having said, "Music did not reveal its secrets to just one person." Many writers from many walks in life inspire me. I cannot narrow my appreciation to just one writer.

15.  How do you define your writing?

Practical.

16.  In one sentence-what do you want people to say about your writing in fifty years?

Hugh gave me the one piece of the puzzle that made a huge difference in my effectiveness.

Hugh Ballou The Details:

17.  Can you tell us where to find more information on you? Website?  Blog?

http://www.hughballou.com/

http://www.leaderstransform.com/

http://www.leadershipteleseminar.com/

http://transforming-power.com/

http://virtualblogtour.blogspot.com/2008/06/what-can-conductor-teach-you-about.html

http://virtualblogtour.blogspot.com/2008/06/transforming-power-virtual-tour-with.html

http://www.worshipfulworks.com/

18.  Is there a place where readers can reach you?

hugh@hughballou.com

888-398-8471

19.  Can you list all your book titles so people can look for them?

Moving Spirits, Building Lives: Church Musician As Transformational Leader

Moving Spirits, Building Lives: A Workbook for Transformational Leaders

Building High Performance Teams: Systems and Structures for Leading Teams and Empowering Transformation

20.  For new readers-what can they expect when they read your book(s)?

Ideas and leadership tools that are immediately applicable

In conclusion:

21.  Take as much space as necessary to speak to our readers-what would you like them to know about you and your writing?

I help leaders, no matter where they are in an organizational chart, to influence others in a positive way that will inspire and encourage effective work.

 

For more information about Hugh Ballou - visit http://www.hughballou.com/. Book information is available at  http://www.amazon.com/Transforming-Power-Transformational-Encouragement-Inspiration/dp/0881775312 For full tour details, visit http://virtualblogtour.blogspot.com/2008/06/transforming-power-virtual-tour-with.html

A SPECIAL BONUS TO EACH PERSON WHO PURCHASES TRANSFORMING POWER TODAY - Hugh Ballou has compiled a list of great FREE bonus gifts for anyone who purchases Transforming Power today. To see a sample of the items that are being given away, visit http://www.transforming-power.com/. Just buy a copy of Transforming Power, return to this page and click to submit your invoice number to receive the web page link to download all of these gifts for FREE


Posted by joyceanthony at 3:52 AM EDT
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Monday, 11 August 2008

About Transforming Power

Leaders who have lead a transformation share the story of their experience. This information is invaluable for leaders who are undertaking a transformation of an organization. The details in this book can be advantageous for anyone who is in a situation where they need to make a transformation - no matter what the mission the organization or the type of transformation.


The key to transformation is different for each individual, group, or congregation. Hugh Ballou has brought together a collection of over 25 articles and stories from individuals who have experienced real-life transformations of themselves or their institution. The inspiration offered from the words will enlist a sense of hope and perseverance during difficult times of change. Discover inspiration and transformation through the struggles of other leaders ranging from children's ministry to being in prison, from making Hollywood movies to winning football games, to being leaders who truly lead.


Themes, Topics and Perspective Audience for Transforming Power
·         Transformational Leadership
·         Collaborative Leadership
·         Goal Setting
·         High Performance Teams
·         People in leadership positions in church and religious situations

 

A SPECIAL BONUS TO EACH PERSON WHO PURCHASES TRANSFORMING POWER TODAY – Hugh Ballou has compiled a list of great FREE bonus gifts for anyone who purchases Transforming Power today. To see a sample of the items that are being given away, visit http://www.transforming-power.com. Just buy a copy of Transforming Power, return to this page and click to submit your invoice number to receive the web page link to download all of these gifts for FREE.


Posted by joyceanthony at 4:14 PM EDT
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