Thursday, December 20, 2012

Read an excerpt from '925 Ideas to Help You Save Money, Get Out of Debt & Retire a Millionaire"

Get Out of Debt and Retire A Millionaire So You Can Leave Your Mark on the World

925 Ideas to Help You Save Money, Get Out of Debt and Retire A Millionaire So You Can Leave Your Mark on the World from the author of the highly acclaimed book, Your Mark on the World, is a collection of articles about family financial planning that originally appeared at FamilyHow.com.

925 Ideas... is an easy and readable guide to help your family find financial peace. Author Devin D. Thorpe explains:

1) how you and your spouse can find agreement on money matters,
2) how to teach your kids about money,
3) how to pay for your children's college education,
4) how to live like a millionaire
5) how to come up with $25,000 in a crisis
6) how to make ends meet on one income
7) how to get out of debt and stay out of debt
8) why home ownership should be your family's top financial priority
9) how to ask your boss for a raise
10) how to use your finances to do more good in the world.

Read an excerpt:

How to invest your first $5,000 for retirement

So you’ve just accumulated $5,000 in your IRA and now you need to invest it. It is impractical, if not impossible to invest it directly into stocks and or bonds so you’ll want to invest in a mutual fund or ETF.

You could split your investment and invest in two or three funds, but if we presume that you will continue to make contributions to your retirement account and that those future investments can go into other funds, our goal for today is to help you choose your first mutual fund.

Let’s assess your situation.

Are you over or under 50 years old? If you are older, you have somewhat less time to invest, making the risk of a reversal greater for you so you’d want to invest more conservatively. If you are younger—or much younger—you can and should tolerate a bit more risk.

How do you feel about risk? Does the idea that you could check the value of your mutual fund at some point in the future and discover that its value has declined send you into a panic? Does the idea that it might be worth 20 percent more in a year excite you? Would knowing that your retirement savings is at risk prevent you from sleeping at night?

If you conclude that you can tolerate investment risk well, then you should be considering mutual funds that invest in stocks. Their values rise and fall more than funds that invest in bonds, but over the long haul you should expect to earn more in stocks than bonds. If you don’t tolerate risk well you may want to make your first investment in a bond fund.

If you feel panicked about risk, please consider that without taking some risk, it is almost impossible to save enough for retirement. Risk free returns don’t earn enough interest to keep up with the value eroding impact of inflation. Money in the bank is better than no money in the bank, but it will be worth less tomorrow than it is today. To retire comfortably you need to get comfortable with moderate risk.

Morningstar is a private company that rates and categorizes mutual funds. There are dozens of categories. Your first mutual fund investment in your IRA could come from one of the following three categories:

Large Blend: A large blend fund invests in the stocks of large companies with a balance of growth and value investments (growth stocks are those projected to grow faster than the market and usually do not pay dividends and value stocks are those that are perceived to be trading below some other measure of value).

Moderate Allocation: A moderate allocation fund invests in both stocks and bonds, with more money invested in stocks than bonds. A portion of the money may also be allocated to cash. These funds expect to achieve some appreciation as well as to generate returns through dividends.

Long-Term Government Bond: These funds invest in treasury bonds that mature more than ten years in the future. Such bonds have no credit risk, that is no risk of not being paid on schedule, but as interest rates change, the value of the bonds will fluctuate.

Each of these fund categories would make a good first fund for your retirement savings. They offer high expected returns—compared to what you can earn in a bank account. They are listed in order from most risky to least risky. You can decide which of these three best represents your risk tolerance based on your own situation.

Once you’ve decided upon a category, you’ll want to choose an individual fund based primarily on the expenses. Your broker should provide you with a list of mutual funds you can purchase with no transaction fees. You’ll also want to choose a fund that doesn’t charge a “load” or upfront fee. You’ll also want to avoid marketing and distribution fees called 12b-1 fees. Finally, you’ll want to look for funds with low expense ratios. All of these fees must be disclosed so you can figure out which fund is best for you.

Your broker should provide a screener to help you choose a mutual fund that meets your criteria. You may also want to try the Yahoo mutual fund screener.

With that, you’re all set to make your first mutual fund investment in your IRA.
 

Get the book on Smashwords FREE or Amazon for only $0.99



Purchase Your Mark on the World on Kindle / Paperback / Nook / Smashwords

Follow Devin D. Thorpe

Blog: YourMarkOnTheWorld.com
Facebook.com/YourMarkOnTheWorld
Twitter: @devindthorpe or #yourmarkontheworld
Newsletter Sign Up: http://bit.ly/NLQBn6


Do you have a question for Devin D. Thorpe? He set up a page to help you! "Ask me anything page" Head over and get advice from a Financial Adviser!

The tour prize is an Amazon Kindle (GC equivalent) and 5 winners of Mark of the World and 925 Ideas to Help You Save Money, Get Out of Debt and Retire A Millionaire So You Can Leave Your Mark on the World. Everyone can download 925 ideas for FREE from Smashwords! Fill out the for below to enter! Open Into for Digital and US for Print.
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Follow the tour!

Tuesday, December 18, 2012

'Unleasing God's Power' Promo Blitz!

Reading Addiction Blog Tours


Christian/Non-Fiction
Date Published:11/6/12

An inspirational book for mid level to mature Christians. The book discusses eleven key steps to maximizing the power of God in a Christian's life. The author uses great analogies to connect things of the Spiritual to things of the natural. He also discusses deep uncommon truths about praise, prayer, Holy Spirit and faith. The book is definitely bound to empower and increase a Christian's faith, in turn, experience supernatural results in life.


Read an excerpt:

Chapter 1: Understanding and Strengthening Your Faith in God

Now faith is the substance of things hoped for, the evidence of things not seen.

Hebrews 11:1

Belief is a by-product of faith. The following is a scenario that will shed light on belief and faith in God. If there is an empty house in front of you and I tell you that the house is owned by someone, although, you have not seen anyone in the house, will you not believe me? Yes, you will and this means you have faith in the law of nature. The law of nature says that every house built is owned by someone, even if not yet purchased, then in this case the builder or the bank owns the property. The same way we must believe and have faith in God.

Links to Buy 


Jimi Akanbi

I am Jimi Akanbi. I am a Christian nonfiction author, who is sold out to God. I live in Atlanta, Georgia USA. I have an MBA in Finance from Mercer University, Atlanta Georgia. I am currently an active member of the prayer and intercessory team at my church. I have also served God as an usher and protocol officer at my previous church. I have undergone a formal ten week bible training course. My interests include writing, counseling, ministry, movies, sports, music and more. I was miraculously called by God to be in the writing ministry, and I am acting in obedience.



Monday, December 17, 2012

'Simon's Choice' Book Tour & Review

Simon's Choice
Charlotte Castle

"But Daddy, who will live with me in heaven?"
 
Doctor Simon Bailey has everything a man could ever want.

Then his beautiful daughter is diagnosed with Leukemia.

He can almost accept her impending death.

He can almost accept the fact that he will have to live without her.

But he cannot stand the thought of his little girl having to face death alone.

He answers her innocent question in a moment of desperation, testing his marriage, his professional judgment and his sanity to the limit.

As cracks form in Simon's previously perfect family, we wonder, as do his loved ones ... will he really make the ultimate sacrifice?

Combining poignant moments of both humour and pain, 'Simon's Choice' is a penetrating account of parenthood at the sharp-end. 

**My thoughts**

This book is absolutely heartbreaking. The loss of a young child is something that no parent should ever have to endure. Unfortunately, it does in fact happen. I have personally dealt with the loss of a child as the result of a tragic accident. I cannot fathom watching a child die a long death from a horrific disease. It was bad enough watching my father go through something like that.

Simon and his wife have gone through varying degrees of devotion over the course of their daughter's illness. They have grasped onto their faith as if it is the very life blood that is keeping them going. They have doubted the purpose of God and questioned His decision to take away their precious daughter. They have discussed the idea of Heaven. Unfortunately, they are rarely on the same page at the same time.

And then their daughter, who is going to soon be leaving them, asks about her eventual transition to the other side. The conversation between Simon and Sarah is one that socked me in the gut. 

What would you say to your daughter if you knew she was going to die? What would you say when she wants you to go with her? Ponder these questions as you examine your own faith while reading this story. And keep a box of Kleenex on hand. You will need it.


Buy links: Paperback  \ Kindle \ Smashwords

About the Author:

The daughter of a successful novelist, Charlotte Castle considers herself ‘chronically unemployable’ and admits to being astounded that her book has had such a positive reception. 
 
To be honest, I started writing ‘Simon’s Choice’ out of a mixture of genuine desire to explore the horror of losing a child and a fair amount of desire to get out of mopping the kitchen floor. That people want to read it is wonderful.” 
 
A school governor for her daughter’s primary school and actively involved in her local ‘Community Action Group’, Charlotte juggles writing with cleaning up after a man whom she says is “completely unfamiliar with the term ‘washing basket’”, her cat and her two children.


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'925 Ideas to Help You Save Money, Get Out of Debt and Retire a Millionaire' Book Tour Blast!

Get Out of Debt and Retire A Millionaire So You Can Leave Your Mark on the World

925 Ideas to Help You Save Money, Get Out of Debt and Retire A Millionaire So You Can Leave Your Mark on the World from the author of the highly acclaimed book, Your Mark on the World, is a collection of articles about family financial planning that originally appeared at FamilyHow.com.

925 Ideas... is an easy and readable guide to help your family find financial peace. Author Devin D. Thorpe explains:

1) how you and your spouse can find agreement on money matters,
2) how to teach your kids about money,
3) how to pay for your children's college education,
4) how to live like a millionaire
5) how to come up with $25,000 in a crisis
6) how to make ends meet on one income
7) how to get out of debt and stay out of debt
8) why home ownership should be your family's top financial priority
9) how to ask your boss for a raise
10) how to use your finances to do more good in the world.

Get the book on Smashwords FREE or Amazon for only $0.99

Purchase Your Mark on the World on Kindle / Paperback / Nook / Smashwords

Follow Devin D. Thorpe

Blog: YourMarkOnTheWorld.com
Facebook.com/YourMarkOnTheWorld
Twitter: @devindthorpe or #yourmarkontheworld
Newsletter Sign Up: http://bit.ly/NLQBn6


Do you have a question for Devin D. Thorpe? He set up a page to help you! "Ask me anything page" Head over and get advice from a Financial Adviser!

The tour prize is an Amazon Kindle (GC equivalent) and 5 winners of Mark of the World and 925 Ideas to Help You Save Money, Get Out of Debt and Retire A Millionaire So You Can Leave Your Mark on the World. Everyone can download 925 ideas for FREE from Smashwords! Fill out the for below to enter! Open Into for Digital and US for Print.
a Rafflecopter giveaway

Follow the tour!

Friday, December 7, 2012

'Three Saints of Christmas' Book Tour

The Three Saints of Christmas

In this adventurous and compelling fictional story it takes St. Joseph, Gabriel, and Santa to get a family all together for Christmas 1866. From a stalking cougar, to a wolf encounter, to a little girl falling into a hole in the ice, and other crises, this story keeps the reader turning its pages.

Deep in Peace River Country in northern Canada, five children have been allowed to stay home on their own for what is supposed to be a three-day period while the adults leave for a town 45 miles away in bitterly cold weather. Brittany, a capable and mature 11-year-old, has been left in charge and is delighted by the prospect of taking care of her sibling and her three cousins.

However, a serious life-threatening accident with the horse and wagon occurs with dire consequences. Fortunately, the children are being watched over from above by St Joseph, Gabriel the Angel, and Santa Claus. The characters in the story are based on real-life children and adults, and make perfect sense to anyone who believes in saints, angels, miracles " and Santa Claus.

The Three Saints of Christmas is a story for children (from 5 to 95). The Three Saints will appeal to anyone who has an active imagination and the desire to explore the meaning of Christmas though fantasy and a non-traditional approach. This delightful story will appeal to children as well as adults young and old, around the world.

**My thoughts**

This is a sweet Christmas story about faith, hope, love and survival. Brittany is an amazing young woman, as children of the 19th century often needed to be. She does what it takes to care for the young brood, even though she is still a child, herself. She isn't aware that St. Joseph, Gabriel, and Santa Claus are keeping an eye out for her and her loved ones. God works in mysterious ways; bringing these three saints to all of them in human form is one way it happens.

The story is short, making it a quick read, but one that will have an impact on you. It could be good to share with your family, but I would probably aim for children a little older than 5. Some 5 year-olds could handle the mature themes (accidents, wolves and mountain lion attacks, potential death of adults), but I would be more comfortable reading this to middle elementary and older. It could make for a good discussion and a foundation for studying what life was really like in the 1800s.  

Purchase - Kindle / Paperback / Nook / Inkwater Press book store


Beverly Lein was born in Manning, Alberta, and raised in nearby Sunny Valley on her father’s farm with her three sisters and two brothers. Her hobbies have always included writing stories, songs, and poems. Before raising elk with her husband Carson on their own ranch, Lein worked as a cook, a farmer, a retailer, and a small business owner. A proud mother of two and grandmother of five, Lein’s life also requires her to be a veterinarian, a midwife, and an elk counselor depending on what the day brings. Beverly is the author of the books, *An Elk in the House *by NeWest Press, *The Three Saints of Christmas*, and *Wolf Spirit- The Story of Moon Beam and Mary Woman of Sorrows and Evil on the Peace River *published by Inkwater Books.

Follow Beverly Lein:

Website: http://beverlylein.wordpress.com/  
Facebook: http://www.facebook.com/beverlyleinauthor

Follow the Tour
December 5
http://www.3psinapod.org
December 6
http://confessinosofanover-workedmom.com
December 7
http://mymommysworld.com
http://upliftingreads.blogspot.com
December 10
http://mommyreadstoomuch.com
December 11
http://www.turningclockback.com
http://coziecorner.blogspot.com
December 12
http://craftymomof3.com
http://mamasgotflair.com
December 13
http://nikita-mattes.blogspot.com/
http://www.literarysweet.com
December 14
http://www.libbyslibrary.com
http://takingtimeformommy.com

Sunday, November 25, 2012

'Snow Whyte and the Queen of Mayhem' by Melissa Lemon


Book description:

Katiyana Whyte’s world is only as big as the apple orchard she was raised on. She can never leave the home where she grew up under the careful eye of her great uncle Barney. But when life at the orchard suddenly becomes dangerous and her childhood friend Jeremy begs her to flee, Kat finds refuge in the Fluttering Forest with seven dwarfs.

Meanwhile, the queen of Mayhem, an evil sorceress, learns through her magic mirror that the daughter she believed to be dead still lives. Enraged, she sends a servant to kill Kat, the princess of Mayhem, but Kat finds protection in a spell that causes snowstorms whenever she is in danger, giving her the nickname Snow Whyte.

Buy link: http://amzn.to/UUl597

Meet the Author:

Melissa has been writing stories since she could hold a pencil in her hand and she has a deformed, calloused finger to prove it.  She began twisting fairy tales in the fifth grade when she wrote a story about George of the Jungle making his way to Neverland.  Melissa enjoys writing, making music, reading, baking and running.  She lives with her husband, three daughters and cat named Matilda.  To learn more about author Melissa Lemon and her other book Cinder and Ella you can visit her website: www.authormelissalemon.com.

Cyber Monday FREEpalooza

Kick off your holiday shopping with FREE books!

This Cyber Monday, some of your favorite indie authors are offering FREE ebooks! Don't miss this chance to feed your new ereaders--or those you're giving as gifts!--with the best reading around. These are different than the books I usually post here, but some of my readers may still enjoy them. And because they are FREE, if you don't like it, nothing lost!

 

PLUS, enter for a chance to win a GRAND PRIZE of signed paperbacks and swag from these talented authors!

   

Spread the news and download ALL the books below! Happy reading!

 
GRAND PRIZE!
Signed paperback of GIVE ME, Pocket Mirror and Paperback of CUPID PAINTED BLIND, Paperback of UNNATURAL DISASTER, Signed Paperback of SPELL CHECKED, Signed Copy of FINDING ALICE, BEND-BITTEN-SHIFT Swag, Bracelet,
UNBOUND ebook, Signed paperback of RESTLESS, Bookmark from THE BOOK SWAG SHOP
Contest open 11/25-12/10/12 US/Canadian Residents Only, Must be 18 or over to enter

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Wednesday, November 21, 2012

Cover Reveal! '101 Notes of Thanksgiving' by Pauline Creeden

Just in time for Thanksgiving, Marcy Rachel Designs has created a new cover for '101 Notes of Thanksgiving' by Pauline Creeden. This book will also be free for the Thanksgiving holiday! Check out more about the book and then see the new cover!

Book Description from Amazon:

Notes and Meditations on God's word and what the believer has to be thankful for.

This book is a short devotional book with scriptures and notes on those scriptures meant to engage the reader in praise and thanksgiving for God and His promises. Perfect for this season of thanks, but can be used any time of year to help you remember all the things God has done for you and why we should praise Him!


Biography


In simple language, Pauline Creeden breaks down Biblical stories and applies them to real life in new ways. Her methods of teaching have brought new light to old scriptures. In her fiction, she creates worlds that are both familiar and strange, often pulling the veil between dimensions. She becomes the main character in each of her stories, and because she has ADD, she will get bored if she pretends to be one person for too long.

Pauline is a horse trainer from Virginia, but writing is her therapy.

She is the administrator for Spirit Filled Kindle and an administrator for Readers' Realm. Her articles, reviews, and devotionals have been featured in RUBY FOR WOMEN Magazine, Devotionals for Bloggers, Faith Filled Family Magazine, and Christian Fiction Book Reviews.

One of Pauline's short stories has won the CCW Short Story contest. Other short stories have been published in Fear & Trembling Magazine, Obsidian River and Avenir Eclectia. An urban fantasy short will appear in The Book of Sylvari: An Anthology of Elves from Port Yonder Press, and a vampire short will appear in Monsters! from Diminished Media Group. She is currently editing and drafting several novels at various stages.

Hope you'll come back and see what else she comes up with!

Here is the beautiful new cover!
 
 

Buy link: http://amzn.to/SUAbeD

Sunday, November 18, 2012

'Refuge' Book Tour



Book description:

Laney Lowell moved across the country to escape her past, not to fall in love. But when she becomes friends with Gabe, a handsome artist plagued by a mysterious disease, she’ll have to decide between facing his dark truth or walking away from him forever. This thrilling romance is full of twists that will keep you guessing to the last page.

Buy links: Amazon 

Meet the Author:

I live in a little cottage in Garner, North Carolina, a small town just outside of Raleigh, with my husband, Tom. Our three children are grown and (mostly) gone, but our needy cat, Pepper, makes sure we’re not bored–especially as she likes to sit in front of the computer screen while I type. We have six grandchildren who keep all of us on our toes.
I may be a grandmother, but I’m young at heart. I love working with the youth and am only happier when I’m writing for them and about them. Along with the best career of all as a wife and a mother, I’ve been a personnel assistant, registered nurse, home-school teacher, local newspaper lady, and bookstore clerk. Now, I happily add writer to those. One of my favorite quotes is from George Elliott, “It’s never too late to be what you might have been.” I believe this applies not just to a writing career, but to everything in life. After all, succeeding at new things just takes faith and trust and a little bit of fairy dust…



Wednesday, November 14, 2012

'Francesca of Lost Nation' Book Blog Barrage!


Francesca of Lost Nation
by Lucinda Sue Crosby
Published by LuckyCinda
244 pages (Paperback & eBook formats)
Historical Romantic Adventure
Heat Level: Sweet

Blurb:

Winner of Four Literary Prizes / Author selected as one of “50 Authors You Should be Reading” by The Authors Show online media outlet

Funny at times and filled with little pearls of everyday wisdom, this book is as much a romantic thriller as it is a perfect little capsule of a time gone by. It is a book about love of all kinds - between grandmother and child, between child and dog, between man and woman.”

Romantic Adventure Book suitable for all ages!


This book is about an unconventional 59-year old woman, Francesca, and her resourceful 10-year old granddaughter, Sarah, who share the adventures of a lifetime over the summer of 1947 in Lost Nation, Iowa. Together, they enchant barnstorming pilots, wow Clinton County Fair attendees, conquer the skies, confront an escaped arsonist, discover how Lost Nation got its intriguing name, and eventually demonstrate to one another the greatest truth about love.

Anyone who loves their grandmother will enjoy reading this Romance Fiction about family, friendship and strong women.

First three chapters available: http://stories.luckycinda.com/

Reviews:
Lucinda Sue Crosby is the most talented writer I have ever worked with. Her words touch the heart and allow the reader a glimpse into her soul. You'll find yourself enticingly drawn into her novel experiencing a rare intimacy with the characters as well as feeling a connection to the author.”--Gary Mule Deer, comedian, entertainer, musician

Throughout one's lifetime, it is such a rare thing to meet someone who is truly unique and brilliant. When you do, you know your life has been touched by greatness. I am so grateful to have met such a person, named Cinda the Songwriter, over a decade ago. I have had the honor and privilege of vocally interpreting her beautifully crafted stories. Do yourself a huge favor and take a moment to explore her heart and life experiences while basking in the warmth and glow of her handy work.”--Renee Martin, Christian recording artist

I loved the book.”--Garry Marshall, Hollywood Icon, film director, author

 Buy links: Kindle | Paperback


About the Author:

Lucinda Sue Crosby is Kindle Bestseller and 2011 Winner by TheAuthorShow of “50 Authors You Should be Reading.” In addition, Crosby is a Nashville songwriter, commissioned poet, award-winning journalist and prize-winning author. Her novel, Francesca of Lost Nation, has been on the Kindle International Bestsellers list in Romance categories and has won four literary prizes.

Contact Lucinda at:


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Monday, November 12, 2012

'Texting Through Time: John Taylor and the Mystery Puzzle' Book Tour




Book Description:

Micah and Alicia are excited to meet John Taylor as a child in England. But when their phone won’t let them return to their own time, they’ll follow the prophet around the world, learning some important lessons along the way. Humorous, entertaining, and informative, this book is a wonderful introduction to church history that’s bound to be a family favorite!

**My thoughts**

Apparently, this Texting Through Time book is the second in a series. This is the only one that I have read, but I am curious to read some more. In this series, brother and sister, Micah and Alicia, have a Magic Tree House-like experience, in which they get to travel through time to meet important people in the Mormon church's history. Instead of a book, they have a magical cell phone from their father. They cannot return home until they have solved a puzzle and learned some very important lessons.

This story is a good one for kids to read to help them remember the teachings of the church, and to live the lives they were meant to lead. Church history is very important, as is finding and living your faith. Kids will enjoy reading the adventures. Parents and teachers can use this as a basis for discussion with the kids. It would be appropriate to read with middle elementary and older. Some younger ones may enjoy the story, but will need some discussion to help them understand what is going on. Older kids, and kids-at-heart, will also feel their hearts fill with joy as they read this adventure. Mine did.

Meet the Author:

My grandmother lived with us when I was young. She loved to read me stories. I would curl up in her lap or sit on the bed next to her and listen to the tales spin out before me. We cried together over Lassie Come Home and loved Madeline and her adventures. That was a magical time for me in my life. When my children were little, I loved reading to them because it kept the magic alive. Now my children are grown, I can keep the magic by writing stories for others to read.

I love to read and write stories about the pioneer prophets.

Pioneers live all over the world. I still have family in Switzerland and Poland. Where do you and your ancestors come from? Write and tell me.

I am like the pioneers because I love:
  • Old fashioned cooking—making butter
  • Pioneer games—button, button, who’s got the button?
  • Crafts the pioneers enjoyed—drying wild flowers
To learn more about the author and her books, you can visit her website at: www.christymonson.com

Saturday, November 10, 2012

'Jeremy's Christmas Journey' Book Tour with Music


Book description:

For Jeremy, Christmas is just another reminder that he’ll never be able to enjoy the things that come so easily to other children. Then one night he has a dream that will change everything. 

Accompanied by stirring music, this story of finding faith and discovering the power of the Master Healer is sure to be cherished at Christmastime and all year long.



**My thoughts**
This book is a touching reminder of how you need to hold onto your faith, even when in the depths of despair. Jeremy has been unable to walk for most of his life and doubts the faith so easily demonstrated by his parents. He just doesn't feel like he has been touched, due to his predicament. 

In his dream, he observes numerous witnesses, literally giving their testimonies before a court, as to how Jesus is a healer. Some of them even had their faith revitalized because of their interactions with Him. Each testimony is a reminder to Jeremy of how important faith can be. Will he learn from this?

Each character who provides a testimony is someone who appears in various Bible stories. Each one sings a song, to demonstrate his or her path to redemption. Music is provided at the end of the book, for those who wish to perform the songs. You can also purchase an accompanying CD. I could see this book being used in a series of lessons for either Christmas or Easter. It would also make for a fun musical program for kids and/or adults to put on around the holidays. 



About the author:

Scott Johnson spent most of his childhood in Orem, Utah, where he gained a love for creative writing. Recognizing his potential at a young age, his teachers and family encouraged him to explore his developing writing talents.

Scott continued to craft imaginative and original stories through his teenage years and served as a yearbook writer and photographer in High School. He published his first book, Nutrition: A Word of Wisdom, in 2009, and has published more than 175 editorial pieces in various online publications.

Scott, his wife and four children reside in Utah County where they enjoy the mountains and outdoors. Scott is regularly asked by his children to share an original story, which he gladly obliges.

Author Links:

The YouTube channel has trailers and samples of the music from the CD: http://www.youtube.com/user/sjohnson2221 
Author website: authorscott.com
Twitter: DocScottJohnson

Tuesday, October 30, 2012

'The Sacred Meaning of the Pentacle' Guest Post by Brigid Ashwood


Greetings! Thanks so much to Uplifting Reads for allowing me this opportunity to share with your audience.

The Earth Child's Handbook is an educational, craft and activity book for children and families who follow a pagan and earth-centric spiritual practice. The symbol on the cover of the book is a painting I created specifically for the series. I call it the "Kid's Pentacle" and it features craft supplies arranged in the form of a five pointed star with a circle around it.

The Pentagram or Pentacle is perhaps the most mis-understood of religious symbols. These days the two words are often used interchangeably, although in truth there are subtle differences. Practically the Pentagram is a 5 pointed star while the  Pentacle is a 5 pointed star surrounded by a circle.

In it's original usage - the term pentacle was simply another word for amulet or sigil, and the image inscribed on the object was not necessarily a 5 pointed star but any symbol that was of spiritual significance to the wearer. In modern terminology the most correct definition is Pentacle as the five pointed star surrounded by the circle, and it is this symbol in particular that is commonly worn by modern Pagans as a reminder of their faith. In this context the symbol represents the 4 elements of creation (earth, air, fire, water) - with the 5th point of the star representing the divine or "spirit". 


To modern Pagans this is a sacred symbol, it represents the vital importance of mother earth and our connection to it as both dependent and caretaker. The Pentacle emphasizes the interconnectedness of all creation and with the top point facing ever upwards, the continuing journey of our souls perfection, our desire to be reunited with spirit. Spirit to Pagans is the first element - the divine - that which is called "God" in Abrahamic tradition. The exact definition of course varying according to religious tradition and individual belief.

Modern misunderstanding of this symbol comes from it's appropriation by groups to whom it's original meaning is of little value and hence in their minds is worthy of no respect. Just as the Indian Swastika and the Christian Cross have been appropriated by hate groups, inverted and corrupted - so has the Pentacle (and Pentagram) been used with the same disregard.

Modern Pagans aim to honor this sacred symbol and hopefully educate their communities regarding it's true grace.

About the Author:

Brigid Ashwood is an artist, illustrator, blogger and author of various and sundry titles such as The Earth Child's Handbook (Books 1 & 2), Oracle of the Tarot Deck and more. She is a core contributor to Wired's GeekMom Blog and creates freebies for Geeky Kids with her monthly Printable Fun feature. Her artwork ranges from New Brow contemporary, Pop Surrealism, Steampunk, Fantasy and Fairy illustration, Celtic Knotwork, Witchy Pin-up to New Age, Pagan and Goddess imagery.

The Book http://www.earthchildshandbook.com

GoodReads: http://www.goodreads.com/brigidashwood Amazon 

Author Page: www.amazon.com/author/brigidashwood

Facebook page for book: https://www.facebook.com/pages/The-Earth-Childs-Handbook/124662954255734 

Art & Blog http://www.brigidashwood.com http://www.brigidashwood.com/blog/ 

Wired Blogger author Page http://www.wired.com/geekmom/author/brigid 

Twitter: http://twitter.com/skwerlgrrl

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/BrigidAshwoodArt 

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Author Brigid Ashwood has an amazing giveaway for readers! 
  
Tour wide Giveaway features: Both volumes of The Earth Child's Handbook, signed by the author. A one of a kind Pagan Kid's tote bag to hold your books. Your very own craft kit bag that includes safety scissors, glue stick, tape, colored pencils, crayons and 7 tubes of glitter glue. A $90 value! 

Check out this picture and then enter the Rafflecopter below!

 
a Rafflecopter giveaway