Interview with 2009 Honoree Rosemary Serluca Foster

I recently had the honor and privilege of not only interviewing Rosemary, but also had the pleasure of meeting her in NYC at Book Expo America. Rosemary is the author of Genevieve’s Gift: A Child’s Joyful Tale of Connecting with her Intuitive Heart.

This connection was special for me for two reasons. During my last pregnancy with my 4th child (2nd daughter) I considered naming her Genevieve. And the other special reason is that my work is intuitive parenting and working with intuitive children through heart centered connections. As you can tell, Rosemary's book is aligned directly with those principles.

Rosemary's company is Rosedove Productions, LLC located in Nyack, NY and she is married to her wonderful husband Doug Foster. She has four godchildren whom she adores: Lauren, Chelsea, Antonia and Ian and feels that all the children and adults she works with on a deep level become part of her extended family. I asked Rosemary some questions about her book and here's what she had to say.

Tara: What was the inspiration for your product?

Rosemary: I began to observe children around me who were losing their intuitive and creative spark as they got older through peer pressure and unconscious parenting, and felt moved to create something specifically for children that they could relate to; something to help them keep in touch with that deeply present, and intuitive part of themselves.

Tara: Rosemary, I couldn't agree with you more. My book Raising Intuitive Children is aligned specifically with the need to educate parents about what it means to raise intuitive children. What I have found through the feedback about the book, is that parents themselves are beginning to recover their own intuitive knowing and memories.

Did you have an aha moment; was it inspired by something you were doing or someplace you were visiting; a person in your life?

Rosemary: Oh yes! I was on a meditation retreat, sitting next to an idyllic pond. I began journaling and wrote the sentence—“teach children about intuition.” It felt like someone had commanded me. So I followed the order, so to speak, and created my children’s workshop called Kids-R-Intuitive, which is comprised of exercises, visualizations, crafts and games to help children tap into their inner and creative voice, and then wrote the book, Genevieve’s Gift.

Tara: How wonderful. So many of us are being called to re-ignite this sense for our children.

When did you first come up with your idea?

Rosemary: After that meditation retreat, I felt something important was about to be born through me. Being that I am a writer, it felt natural to create a book. I constantly relied on my own intuition to bring this project to life. I was in fact, living the journey of connecting with and following that small still voice inside, just like the main character does. And it was through the same heart connection meditation that I teach children in my workshops, that I first got a glimpse of what Genevieve looked like, who is very similar to my sweet, intuitive goddaughter Antonia.

Tara: Who is your greatest source of support; why?

Rosemary: Without a doubt my husband Doug. He is, and has always been very supportive of my creativity and writing, not to mention he is a very kind and steady, and reminds me to take a step back and look at the big picture, especially when things “appear” not to be falling into place.

Tara: We have the "supportive husband" blessing in common. Someone told me it's the divine masculine we are beginning to see in men. Whatever it is, I am grateful to have one :o)

If you could offer one piece of advice to someone who is thinking of venturing into this line of work, what would it be?

Rosemary: Listen to your intuition every step of the way. I cannot stress enough how important this is. The journey of how this book came to be is a story in and of itself, and the common thread throughout that journey is the synchronistic events that kept me moving forward. That’s not to say it wasn’t challenging, for it definitely was at times. But that’s part of the growth experience that none of us can, or should avoid. My job was to listen and follow. You’ll feel so much better after you've tried something you're dreaming about doing.

Tara: Absolutely so true! If you don't listen to that inner voice, you miss the blessings that are waiting for all of us on this journey we call life.

What has it meant to you personally or to the success of your product to have been honored with a Mom’s Choice Award?

Rosemary: It is a great honor and validation of my work. I am so grateful to have been awarded by an organization that celebrates the same values that I hold dear in my own work, integrity, consciousness and compassion.

Tara: What are your future plans; what’s next for you as a writer?

Rosemary: I am continually writing and working on other projects that include: content for websites, magazine articles, ghostwriting and editing books, and TV scripts. I would love to have a publisher acquire Genevieve’s Gift (any ideas or introductions are so very welcome!) and also create a whole series of Genevieve's Gift books, (I have many adventures in mind for our heroine.)

Tara: Anything you would like to add?

Rosemary: Just that it has been an absolute pleasure working with the Mom’s Choice Awards organization. The entire staff is so gracious, helpful and warm. I feel very blessed to have been in connection with all of you. Thanks and many blessings!

Thank you Rosemary. We are so pleased to have the caliber of books, a book like yours brings to the world. Many blessings to you as well!

Presentation with Greg Mortenson Tonight!!

Join us tonight at the 92nd St Y in NYC for a presentation with Greg Mortenson and his organization- Pennies for Peace. We are honored to be a part of recognizing Greg and all of his amazing accomplishments to initiate peace through education around the globe!

Greg is also being considered for the Nobel Peace prize. For more information about this event, visit- www.MomsChoiceAwards.com.

It's not too late to attend this exciting event!

Interview with 2009 Honoree Jeanette Ramnarine

I had the honor of interviewing author Jeanette Ramnarine who has a fabulous children's picture book called “The 4 Little Pigs,” a financial values book for children (where was this when I was younger :o)

Jeanette and her husband own the company Four Piggies Publishing and they reside in Belleville, Ontario which is a city located halfway between Toronto and Ottawa (love both cities!) Jeanette and her husband have been married for 10 years and they have a 6 year old son named Caleb and a 5 year old daughter named Maya. Here are some of the questions I asked Jeanette about her book.

Tara: What was the inspiration for your product?

Jeanette: My book was inspired by my children Caleb and Maya. Teaching them financial responsibility from a young age was something that my husband and I had always planned to do. When we started giving my son an allowance we divided it between four piggy banks named Spending (pocket money), Saving (for a bigger purchase), Sharing (to be used to help society) and Schooling (savings for post-secondary education) we thought the information could be useful to other families and the result is “The 4 Little Pigs” (a financial values book for children).

Tara: Jeanette, what an incredible concept! I have one child who loves to save his money, but another one who spends it faster than he can hold onto it. What a great way to teach children financial discipline (especially with the way things are today!)

When did you first come up with your idea?

Jeanette: I came up with the idea of giving my children an allowance divided between four piggy banks before they were even born. I remember seeing an Oprah show talking about the Save, Spend, Share concept and being a teacher and knowing the high cost of post-secondary education added Schooling as a way to have children start saving and thinking about what they want to be when they grow up.

Tara: Did you have an aha moment; was it inspired by something you were doing or someplace you were visiting; a person in your life?

Jeanette: The idea to write the story as a children’s book came from a conversation with our financial planner. I told her that we had started giving Caleb an allowance and how we were dividing it between four piggy banks. I wanted to share the idea with other parents and was looking into having the four piggy banks created. Our financial planner suggested that I write the story as a children’s book and later add the four piggy banks for sale along with the book which is the path we decided to take.

Tara: What a great idea and unique in an impactful way.

Who would you say has been your greatest source of support; why?

Jeanette: My greatest source of support is my husband Richards. He has always given me the freedom to explore new ideas and encouraged my creativity even if he doesn’t always fully understand the “big picture” that I see. He has always believed in me and allowed me the opportunity to explore my dreams.

Tara: I have said this before, but I will say it again. How wonderful it is to have the support of our husbands.. it is truly a great time we are living in!

If you could offer one piece of advice to someone who is thinking of venturing into this line of work, what would it be?

Jeanette: My one piece of advice would be to follow the dreams of your childhood and go after what you believe in. That’s where you truly find success.

Tara: You bet!

What has it meant to you personally or to the success of your product to have been honored with a Mom’s Choice Award?

Jeanette: We were ecstatic when we found out that we won a Mom’s Choice Award. To be recognized as one of the best in family friendly products has opened doors to allow us to explore opportunities in expanding our company Four Piggies Publishing and the financial education of children through “the 4 piggies concept”.

Tara: Jeanette, this is wonderful. I can't tell you how much I appreciate your concept and the inspiration you offer to parents and their children. Such a neat idea!

What are your future plans; what’s next for you as an author?

Jeanette: I am currently working on the next book in “the four piggies” series which is due out in Spring 2010. The book will be geared towards children ages 6 – 10 and is a chapter book. I have been in contact with some philanthropic organizations in terms of the “sharing” piggy bank and looking at ideas where children can help in making the world a better place. I also would like to get more involved in talking about “the 4 piggies concept” with the media so that we can reach a wider audience across North America. I plan on giving more presentations of “The 4 Little Pigs” in its digital format on the big screen to children within the school system. I have been exploring the idea of having “The 4 Little Pigs” created into a children’s cartoon series to give children the opportunity to think about how they would use money to Spend, Save, Share, and put some away for School so they could follow their dreams when they get older. Now that we sell the four piggy banks named Spending, Saving, Sharing and Schooling on our website along with the book we would also like to look into marketing them as a package in retail stores.

Tara: Great ideas.. keep them coming. I have no doubt this will be a huge success. Your passion is undeniable!

Will you be attending Book Expo in NYC this year?

Jeanette: Yes, I am very excited about attending Book Expo in NYC this year. I am scheduled for an author signing and looking forward to my interview with MCA founder Tara Paterson. My husband and I will be volunteering some time to help out at the Mom’s Choice Awards booth and will be looking for opportunities to expand Four Piggies Publishing further into the North American market.

Oh hey, that's me! Yes I look forward to my interview with you as well. Great job and can't wait to see you later this week.

Stay tuned for our next interview with author Rosemary Serluca.

Interview with 2009 Honoree Bonnie Wayne

This week I interviewed author Bonnie A. Wayne. Bonnie writes concept books for children which include- Counting with Bella and Finny, Shapes with Bella and Finny, Colors with Bella and Finny and Opposites with Bella and Finny. Her Adventures of Bella and Finny Series won a 2009 Mom's Choice Award.

Bonnie resides in Clifton Park, NY and has been married to her wonderful husband, Tom for 30 years. They have 2 beautiful daughters Tiffany Wayne, Taryn Wayne Shelton and a son-in-law, Scott Shelton. The stars of her books are Bella and Finny, her 2 standard poodles. I asked Bonnie some questions about her series of books and the inspiration behind them. Here's what she said.

Tara: What was the inspiration for your books?

Bonnie: My love for children and to make learning fun through humorous photographs of Bella and Finny.

Tara: One thing I know about children, they love animals!

When did you first come up with your idea?

Bonnie: The very first time I thought about it was in 2004. The first book was on sale January 2006.

Tara: It's amazing how quickly ideas can manifest into reality. How fantastic!

Did you have an aha moment; was it inspired by something you were doing or someplace you were visiting; a person in your life?

Bonnie: My aha came while I was laying in bed one morning. I was thinking.... what can I do with these funny pictures of my dogs? Why not turn them into a learning tool for children! Take a new approach to teaching basic concepts!

Tara: Who is your greatest source of support; why?

Bonnie: My Faith, "Everything is possible for him who believes." My Family, their belief in me and their constant love and encouragement.

Tara: If you could offer one piece of advice to someone who is thinking of venturing into this line of work, what would it be?

Bonnie: You must be passionately in love with what you do and the rest will follow.

Tara: I couldn't agree more. Passion definitely brings out the most creative inspiration and gives it the energy to continue even after you've moved onto something else.

What has it meant to you personally or to the success of your product to have been honored with a Mom’s Choice Award?

Bonnie: It has been a validation of all my work. I am so honored and humbled. I look forward to all the possibilities that this award will bring.

Tara: We are honored you feel this validates your work. You are the real validation of your work through your efforts and faith. We just acknowledge your accomplishment :o)

What are your future plans; what’s next for you as an author/ teacher?

Bonnie: I want to bring The Adventures of Bella and Finny Series to mainstream publishing along with all the marketing possibilities.

Bonnie, I wish you continued success with your book series' and look forward to our interview at Book Expo. For more information about Bonnie's books visit- www.BellaandFinny.com

Our next interview will be with Honoree Jeanette Ramnarine author and creator of the Four Pigs.

Mom's Choice Awards Presents Greg Mortenson

General Details:
Thursday, May 28th @ 7PM
Kaufman Concert Hall
(92nd Street YMCA)
Lexington Avenue & 92nd Street
New York City

Program Overview
A 90 minute multimedia presentation given by
Mr. Mortenson followed by Q&A and a booksigning.

A Special Gift
All attendees will receive a copy of Mr. Mortenson's book, Three Cups of Tea. Attendees may select from the original adult version or the recently released young reader's version.

Read about Greg's work in Entro Magazine.

Everywhere Greg Mortenson goes, people line up to hear his simple message about how to change the world. Standing-room-only crowds have become a trend for Greg Mortenson since the publication of Three Cups of Tea: One Man’s Mission to Promote Peace One School at a Time.

Don’t miss his engaging multimedia presentation featuring:

Education as a key to promoting peace, empowering women, supporting economic growth and fighting terrorism.

How the government, the military and the school system can secure a better future for Pakistan and Afghanistan.

What we can learn: Cross-cultural lessons from rural Pakistan and Afghanistan

Ticket Information
Three types of tickets are available: General Admission, VIP Admission and Student Admission.

For more information about tickets and details, visit http://www.momschoiceawards.com/EventGuide.php

**Photo courtesy of Harvard University

Interview with 2009 Honoree Chariss Walker

This past week I had the privilege of interviewing Chariss Walker, author of the book- Make a Joyful Noise: Searching for a Spiritual Path in a Material World.

Chariss' business is Chariss Walker Ministries, LLC, an outreach program for spiritual growth located in Navarre, FL. Chariss is a single grandmother and cares for her nine year old granddaughter, Vivien, who has lived with her for the past 4 years. I asked Chariss to share a little about what inspired her to write her book and here's what she had to say.

Tara: What was the inspiration for your book?

Chariss: I wanted to connect the dots between the idea of “being more spiritual than religious” and show that we are all saying the same thing; that it's the terminology that is different.

Tara: When did you first come up with your idea?

Chariss: It is something I have been working toward for the last six years, but it sprang forth as a new and living presence in my life demanding to be born about two years ago.

Tara: I love how we contemplate ideas and then suddenly realize it's time to do something with the creativity.

Did you have an aha moment; was it inspired by something you were doing or someplace you were visiting; a person in your life?

Chariss: Yes, I was watching an Oprah show. She was presenting some of the speakers from The Secret. I felt that it needed explanation – that the world needed to understand it is not really a secret. It has been with us since the beginning of time and is in the bible if we only know where to look.

Tara: Probably something we could spend hours talking about, but given our limited time, who would you say has been your greatest source of support; why?

Chariss: Vivien, my granddaughter, because each day I get to witness the love of God in her. She is such an inspiration to have overcome so much and be such a lovely, little person. It lets me know there is hope for everyone.

Tara: Kids truly are the light of the planet and are here to teach us so much.

If you could offer one piece of advice to someone who is thinking of venturing into this line of work, what would it be?

Chariss: Love yourself, love your message and then write about it.

Tara: Absolutely, or whichever creative form feels right to your individual spirit.

What has it meant to you personally or to the success of your product to have been honored with a Mom’s Choice Award?

Chariss: As a self-assisted author, meaning that I am the writer but I hired publishers for my book, the Mom’s Choice Award lends certain credibility to my work. The world still believes that if you are not picked up by a major brick and mortar publisher that your book has no value. I had to believe in my message and gather up the nerve to go it alone. Having a gold seal on my book is totally awesome, believe me!

Tara: What are your future plans; what’s next for you as a writer?

Chariss: To write more books! Yes! I have two more in mind that go along with this particular book, Make a Joyful Noise, but I also have some ideas for ’tweens (ages 9 to 12) books and perhaps a novel or two. I hope to find an editor or publisher who will pick me up and realizes the value of my experience.

Tara: Anything you would like to add?

Chariss: Yes, I love my life. I love writing and being able to share my message with millions around the world. It is so important to share what we have learned; in the process of that perhaps we save someone else a few steps. In this electronic age, we are growing – expanding our minds and learning at an astonishing rate, we are learning from the past and from others experiences. It is truly a blessing to be part of that.

I couldn't have said it any better myself. As an author myself, I understand the privilege of sharing your work with people all over the globe and technology sure does help out a lot! Good luck to your Chariss and perhaps we will see you at BEA!

Stay tuned for my next interview with Susan Heim, author of Boosting Your Baby's Brain Power.

Interview with 2009 Honoree Shirley Cheng

I recently conducted an interview with one of the most amazing women I have had the joy and privilege of meeting. Come to find out, Shirley Cheng is from the same part of the country I grew up in, Upstate, NY.

Shirley has been blessed with the gift of writing and as a blind author, her 4th book Waking Spirit: Prose & Poems the Spirit Sings has been selected to receive this year's Mom's Choice Award. Shirley's company- Dance with Your Heart! Publishing, has produced some amazing pieces and is currently working on publishing Shirley's 9th book. I asked Shirley to share some of her story and here's what we talked about:


Tara: What was the inspiration for your book?

Shirley: The inspiration for my book is life, as for all my other books and projects. Life is the most precious present God has given to each and every one of us. Through my writings, I urge people to recognize and realize the importance and blessing of life, of every minute, of every second, so they can love the lives they live and go for their own gold medals as I have gone for mine despite seemingly insurmountable challenges.

Tara: Life is definitely our greatest teacher and as I've been told more than once, it's not the challenges life hands us as much as how we overcome our many obstacles.

When did you first come up with your idea for Waking Spirit?

Shirley: In October 2006, I suddenly had an urge to write and publish Waking Spirit, which is my fourth book. At that time, I had several short writings I wanted to publish in a book, so I decided to put them in a volume called Waking Spirit, which had been a title I was aching to use for a future book. However, the book would be too short if only comprised of those writings, so I wrote many poems (most of which are haiku) all on the theme of loving life, spirituality, delightful animals and nature wonders.

Tara: Who has been your greatest source of support; why?

Shirley: My greatest source of support comes from two beings: my Heavenly Father, Jehovah God Almighty, and my beloved earthly mother Juliet Cheng. They are the very foundation and light of my life, the ultimate secret to my happiness, strength, and success. They energize me spiritually by providing me with unconditional love to propel me to the greatest heights.

Tara: I couldn't agree with you more. As a parent, one thing I recognize is the importance of a spiritual foundation for children so they are confident enough to navigate through life successfully. It may look different for each person, but it's an important part of a child's core values system.

If you could offer one piece of advice to someone who is thinking of venturing into this line of work, what would it be?

Shirley: When your passion and urge to share with others a piece of your heart, to help them live a more fulfilling life, is unconquerably and undeniably strong then follow your heart's desires to make that positive difference in someone's life through your writings. No one and nothing can hinder you from going for your dreams if you do not let them--only you have the power to stop yourself.

Tara: Absolutely; or whichever form of creativity is your heart's desire.

What has it meant to you personally or to the success of your product to have been honored with a Mom's Choice Award?

Shirley: When people appreciate the fruits of my love, it adds even more bliss to my career. So when I am honored with the Mom's Choice Award for something I love to do, well, it's just like a cherry on top of an ice-cream sundae! Receiving the award for Waking Spirit validates the value of my book and affirms my beliefs and hope in it.

Tara: Well it means a lot for us to have the opportunity to honor inspirational works that will grace the world and impact people's hearts.

What are your future plans; what's next for you as an author?

Shirley: I plan on releasing my ninth book, which is an inspirational book on Christianity that is based on love: love for God, love for fellow creations, and love for life. Afterward, I think I will take a break from writing my own books; I instead will focus on contributing to other people's books (I've contributed to sixteen books thus far), and do more writing for the Internet.

Tara: You are one busy lady and have earned a well deserved break! Keep us posted as you release your next book. We will also see Shirley this month at Book Expo America in NYC so if you see her wheeling around the building or passing by, stop and say hi!

Anything you would like to add?

Shirley: Although I'm blind, I can see far and wide; even though I'm disabled, I can climb high mountains. I let the ropes of hope in Jehovah God haul me high!

Tara: Amen! For more inspiration, please visit http://www.shirleycheng.com where you can contact Shirley for speaking engagements (she's also a motivational speaker), interviews, book signings, and any inspirational events.

Our next interview will be with 2009 Honoree Chariss Walker, author of Make A Joyful Noise.

Interview with 2009 Honoree Dyan Eybergen

I recently conducted an interview with 2009 Mom's Choice Award's honoree Dyan Eybergen. Dyan resides in Alberta, Canada and is the mother of three boys(God Bless you for that... I have two boys which is plenty :o) - Kohan who is almost 13, Nolan 10 and Talen 6; and she has been married to her husband Rob for 15 years.

Dyan's book, Out of the Mouths of Babes: Parenting from a Child’s Perspective received a silver award in the parenting category. I asked Dyan a few questions about her book and here is what she had to say.

Tara: What was the inspiration for your product?

Dyan: I worked as a child and adolescent psychiatric nurse for more than 8 years – there wasn’t a behavioural situation that I wasn’t trained to handle. When I began having my own children I thought I was more than adequately prepared for motherhood. I learned very quickly that all my education and clinical experience taught me nothing about being a mother. Children are unique and cannot be parented from a text book.

Tara: Amen Dyan. I am the mother of four children and couldn't agree with you more.

When did you first come up with your idea?

Dyan: Shortly after I gave birth to my first son. I was overwhelmed by how much personality he expressed as an infant and how much I needed to rely on and trust my instincts to care for him.

Tara: Dyan, in my book Raising Intuitive Children I tell parents to trust their intuition. We could have been cut from the same cloth!

Did you have an aha moment; was it inspired by something you were doing or someplace you were visiting; a person in your life?

Dyan: Through the parent education I was providing I was struck by how many parents I heard say “but I tried that [parent strategy] and it didn’t work for me”. I feel that we are a generation of parents’ whose intuition has been undermined by contemporary approaches to raising children. I want parents to embrace and trust their instinctive responses to their children’s needs.

Tara: Who is your greatest source of support; why?

Dyan: My mother: She continues to champion my dreams and nurture my individuality but at the same time helps me to stay grounded. But it is my husband who holds me when I am frightened and listens to me when I temporarily lose my mind. Both of them support me in uniquely different ways.

Tara: Love the men in our lives! My husband is my greatest source of support as well.

If you could offer one piece of advice to someone who is thinking of venturing into this line of work, what would it be?

Dyan: Brace yourself for ridicule and criticism. When you put yourself in a position of offering an opinion or advice you can expect to be chastised by those who disagree with your philosophy. Having said that though, there are very few experiences more gratifying than publishing a book.

Tara: Dyan, you couldn't give better advice than that!

What has it meant to you personally or to the success of your product to have been honored with a Mom’s Choice Award?

Dyan: I chose to publish independently which for the most part still carries a stigma in the world of mainstream publishing. After receiving a Mom’s Choice Award I found I was taken more seriously in the writing and book community. My credibility as an author has increased.

Tara: Precisely the reason I created this Awards' program. I love to hear feedback from our recipients about how this has had a positive impact for their business/ product. I am so happy to hear it's helped you as well!

What are your future plans; what’s next for you as a writer?

Dyan: I have five other book titles in my head. I’ve been busy with the marketing and promotion for Out of the Mouths. Eventually I have to get back to writing!

Tara: You go girl!

Will you be attending Book Expo in NYC this year?

Dyan: Yes I will. I have never attended Book Expo or been to New York before. I am very excited. I will be working in the Mom’s Choice Awards' booth on Friday morning and I will be autographing Out of the Mouths of Babes on Saturday between 11-12pm at table 19.

Tara: Well I look forward to meeting you in a few weeks!

Anything you would like to add?

Dyan: Having received a Mom’s Choice Award for Out of the Mouths of Babes has been such a fulfilling experience. It has opened the doors to so many other opportunities: interviews, book expo, book sales. I have thoroughly enjoyed every moment of being a part of this distinguished award.

Thank you Dyan! We couldn't be happier for you and wish you the best of luck on this amazing journey.

Watch for our next interview with 2009 Honoree- Donna Seim, author of WHERE IS SIMON, SANDY?

Important Dates and Announcements

EXCITING NEWS!
Fox News to cover MCA LIVE from BookExpo America. More details to follow.

Important Deadlines:

ASAP Schedule your filmed interview timeslot and your volunteer shifts

5/5 Last day to reserve your hotel accommodations from the BEA Travel Center

5/9 MCA Showcase display products due

Learn more about these offers! Visit the MCA Alumni Webstore: http://momschoiceaw920.corecommerce.com/BookExpo-America-c26/

Volunteer
Find out how you can volunteer and save BIG! http://www.momschoiceawards.com/alumni_faq.php Hurry! Only a few slots remain!


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Midwest Book Review Call For MCA Award-Winning Children’s Illustrated Works


The Midwest Book Review (MBR) was founded in 1976 by highly respected James A. Cox, Editor-In-Chief. MBR is an online monthly publication aimed at librarians, booksellers, as well as the general reading public. Its mission is to promote literacy, library usage, and independent publishing. You can learn more about the organization here: http://www.midwestbookreview.com/

MBR produces an average of 600 professional reviews per month. The average queue time is 14 to 16 weeks, BUT! MBR will give special consideration to children’s illustrated titles that have earned honors from the Mom’s Choice Awards®.

If you’re interested in having your children’s illustrated book reviewed by the Midwest Book Review, send a review copy to:

Sara Hassler
1601 West Main Street
Suite 90 #403
Willimantic, CT 06226

mbr@momschoiceawards.com
Sorry, galleys are not accepted at this time. This is a complimentary service.


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Early Bird Deadline Expires May 1st
Don’t forget, the early bird deadline for the next round of entries expires on May 1st.

Save $100 or enter two for the price of one.

Visit the website for complete details: http://www.momschoiceawards.com/enter.php

Book Expo America 2009

Mom's Choice Awards® Honorees and Alumni: Book Expo America is just around the corner! Don’t miss out on this dynamic event that generates positive exposure for your award-winning book/product.

Make arrangements now! Visit the Mom’s Choice Awards Alumni Webstore for special offers—many expire Friday, April 24th, so don’t delay!

Volunteer in the MCA booth and save!

Exhibit your award-winning book/product in the MCA Showcase.
*There is NO better exposure for your book/product!

Get 40% off your admissions badge when you order by April 24th.

Reserve your filmed interview timeslot with ME!
*These filmed interviews make a great commercial / trailer for your book/product.

Autographing sessions and product demo opportunities are still available, but going fast!

Is this your first experience with Book Expo America? Click here to learn everything you need to know.

We hope you’ll plan to visit the MCA Booth #345 on Friday, May 29th from 10-Noon. Greg Mortenson, author of the sensational book Three Cups of Tea: One Man’s Mission to Promote Peace One School at a Time (115 weeks on the New York Times Bestseller List and currently #1) will be making a special appearance and signing copies of Entro®--The Mom’s Choice Awards® Magazine.

We look forward to seeing you there!

~Tara Paterson

Mom's Choice Awards Updates

The Mom's Choice Awards® is currently accepting submissions. Enter your product, book, or service and distinguish yourself from all of the others on the market. Entries will be accepted now through October 1st, 2009. Enter by May 1st, and save! Visit the website for details.

Join us in the MCA Booth #345 at Book Expo America May 29th-31st. Book Expo America (BEA) is the largest publishing event in the United States and hosts several industry leaders.

We will also have a special guest with us Friday May 29th from 10-noon, so don't miss your opportunity to be a part of the excitement!

There is still time to book your interview spot with me at BEA. All interviews will be taped and available for upload on the internet. Currently, we are filming on Friday May 29th and Saturday May 30th so reserve your spot now. Space is limited!

We would like to thank the sponsors who have graciously offered us their support.

Wells Fargo

JetBlue Airlines

Barnes & Noble

And a special thanks to our partner in advocating family-friendly entertainment, the Dove Foundation.

We look forward to seeing you soon!

~Tara Paterson

Book Expo America 2009

Mom's Choice Awards' recipients and alumni make sure to book your arrangements for BEA as soon as possible! Accommodations are filling up and it's an event you won't want to miss.

After much demand, we are offering two days of interviews to our recipients this year. If you haven't scheduled your interview to be filmed live at our booth, contact the Mom's Choice team to reserve your slot. Space is limited and filling up fast.

We have a special guest joining us on Friday May 29th from 10am- noon. More information will be available next week.

We look forward to seeing you there!

~Tara Paterson

Mom's Choice Awards 2009 Updates

The Mom's Choice Awards^® is currently accepting submissions for 2010. Enter your product, book, service or company and distinguish yourself from all of the others on the market. Entries will be accepted now through October 1st, 2009.

Join us in our booth at Book Expo America May 29^th-31^st. Book Expo America is the largest publishing event in the United States and hosts several industry leaders. We will also have a special guest with us Friday May 29th from 10- noon, so don't miss your opportunity to be a part of the excitement.

There is still time to book your interview spot with me at Book Expo. All interviews will be taped and available for upload on the internet. Currently, we are filming on Friday May 29^th and Saturday May 30^th so reserve your spot now; space is limited!

We would like to thank the sponsors who have graciously offered us their support.

• Smithfield


• Wachovia Securities


• Webiob


• JetBlue Airlines

And a special thanks to our partner in advocating family- friendly entertainment, the Dove Foundation.

Make sure to pick up your copy of the Mom's Choice magazine Entro at Book Expo or reserve a copy through MomsChoiceAwards.com.

We look forward to seeing you soon!

~Tara Paterson

Letting Go In Order To Grow

It was 2004 when I was approached by a colleague and friend of mine, with the idea for creating an awards program approved by moms. He was familiar with the various businesses I had established in the mom niche, so it just made sense- why not a program to honor the things mom's feel are important? We collaborated on a name and the Mom's Choice Awards was born.

I spent the first couple of years marketing heavily to the book market and attended several Book Expo conferences, encouraging authors and publishers to submit their products. It was exciting and exhausting at the same time, but the rewards were great. Our recipients began to share the impact receiving our award had on their product and one even received interest in the form of a T.V. show. How amazing it was to know we were truly having an impact on people's lives and their creations, all at once.

2007 proved to be more challenging than past years, because we were truly growing beyond my personal capability. We contracted with a remarkable company who brought the image of the Mom's Choice to new heights and the realization began to set in- I was not capable of taking this much further on my own. In the fall of last year, I was faced with a decision that proved to be a difficult one. I had a choice to make- continue to develop the MCA within the box of my limitations or let it go so it could grow. It wasn't an easy decision to make as I had formed an emotional attachment to my creation and the feeling it evoked, but in the end, it was the only choice that made sense.

I made the decision to allow the Mom's Choice to take on wings of her own and released the attachment I had to solely operating the program. Today, the awards is climbing to new heights as we form partnerships with company's like the Dove Foundation and Wachovia Securities and I am happy to say I have more pride and ownership in this company than I ever expected.

I want to honor and thank the Mom's Choice team for all of their hard work in making my dream a greater reality than I ever could have imagined.

Stay tuned, because the momentum we are building this year far exceeds my expectations and I am proud to be a part of such a great organization!

~Tara Paterson

Why Should You Enter The Mom's Choice Awards?

There are many awards' programs out there and we understand it can be challenging to decide which one's to enter. We offer a variety of unique opportunities for our entrants in an effort to make the decision making process a bit easier.

Upon receiving a Mom's Choice Award, you can expect to receive:

• An award certificate and a supply of the beautiful MCA embossed seals
• A product review in Entro® – The Mom’s Choice Awards® Magazine
• National press release listing your book/product (we also offer a model for creating your own press release)
• Product reviews posted on Amazon.com and BN.com
• Product promotion via the Mom’s Choice Awards® website with links to your website and Amazon.com
• List your product in the Mom’s Choice Awards® webstore
• Your testimonial included in the Mom’s Choice Awards® interactive testimonial gallery
• Lifetime membership in the prestigious Mom’s Choice Awards® Alumni Honor Roll
• Cooperative advertising opportunities
• Product promotion opportunities at BookExpo America and the ABC Kids Expo
• Honorees interviewed and filmed for media distribution at BookExpo America and the ABC Kids Expo
• An interview which will appear on the Mom's Choice Founder's blog
• Product promotion to retailers and other strategic partners
  15% off Webiob services (interactive online books, product trailers, and other services)
• 50% off the review fee for the Dove Foundation’s Family Approved Seal
• For a small licensing fee – the MCA Image Pack – everything you need to promote your status as an MCA honoree on your book cover, product packaging, website and promotional/marketing collateral
  And more!

To find all of the services included here, visit- www.MomsChoiceAwards.com for more information. Plus, you always have access to me, the founder of the Awards! I will be at BEA, interviewing all of our fine alumni and recipients and I look forward to meeting you.

-Tara Paterson

Congratulations to the 2008 Mom's Choice Awards' Recipients

I would like to personally congratulate all of the 2008 MCA recipients! Welcome to our community of award winning creators and we look forward to seeing you all at Book Expo where I will be personally interviewing past and present recipients. It is always our pleasure to recognize outstanding products, and this year was no exception.

Among the most outstanding children's books were-

• Dance In A Buffalo Skull by the South Dakota State Historical Society Press
• R Is For Rhyme by Judy Young, Sleeping Bear Press
• Priscilla McDoodleNutDoodleMcMae Asks "Why?" by Janet Mary Sinke, My Grandma and Me Publishers.

Congratulations to this year's top honors in children's literature and to all of our other honorees!

Founder,

Tara Paterson

Welcome!

Welcome to the Mom's Choice founder's blog. It is my intent to create an interactive environment with our MCA alumni, recipients and entrants, as well as with our judge's, sponsors and team. In the next few months, we will introduce our new 2008 MCA recipients as well as conduct interviews with many of our supporters.

Please join us in building a community where you can speak directly with me as well as learn about all of the amazing books, products, and services we are proud to recognize as worthy of the esteemed Mom's Choice seal.

Join us in May at Book Expo America in Los Angeles where I will be conducting live, filmed interviews at our booth. For more information, stay tuned or visit the Mom's Choice official web site. You can also sign up for email alerts with all of our upcoming events and offers.

I look forward to meeting you!