Chica Writer

Meet the voices of my new audiobooks!

2012-01-20T21:40:00.001-08:00

Random House bought the audiobook rights to both my novels and they are both finished being recorded!

Actress Julia Whelan as she is recording my novel for an audiobook!

Julia Whelan recorded Waking Up in the Land of Glitter this week.

Actress Tavia Gilbert!

Last week, actress Tavia Gilbert recorded Miss Scarlet's School of Patternless Sewing. She is so sweet, she even friended me on Facebook, it made my whole day!

Both audiobooks will be out later this year!
Felicidades,
Kathy :-)
Check out my new novel! MISS SCARLET'S SCHOOL OF PATTERNLESS SEWING

Interview with author Toni Plummer

2011-11-10T21:26:00.001-08:00

The Bolero of Andi Rowe: Stories [Paperback] Toni Margarita Plummer (Author)

Today I'm excited to share an interview with a friend and fellow, author, Toni Margarita Plummer! We met years ago at a writing conference and have stayed in touch ever since. Please check out and buy her new fabulous book!

Tell us a bit about your book!

The Bolero of Andi Rowe is a short story collection, and my first book! The stories are inter-related, so you'll see recurring characters throughout. A lot of them tell the story of this one family, the Rowe family. They're mostly set in the San Gabriel Valley in Los Angeles. Most of the characters are Mexican-American and Catholic, so the stories tend to deal with those cultures. I've heard from readers that some parts make them laugh out loud, and that they find other parts very touching. It's been really wonderful to hear readers' responses!

Did the idea come first, or the goal to write a book?

I think they happened about the same time. I wanted to have a published book, and I had a rough idea of what I wanted that book to be about. I didn't have much of a plot. I just had this desire to capture characters and place. It started out as a novel. Then I ditched that idea and put together a collection. It was even later that I realized the stories should be inter-related, independent but in communication with each other.

Outline or no outline?

I never had an outline for this book. I don't think one was necessary. The best moments writing it were when a story veered off in a new direction, when I realized that it was really about something else. These were short stories though. At the moment, I'm in the process of plotting out a novel. A novel seems so long! I'm hoping that if I can roughly sketch it out, it won't seem so daunting.

By day you are a book editor. How did it feel to be on the other side of the page? Did being an editor help speed up the process?

It was funny--while the experience felt utterly new, it also felt very familiar. I think being an editor meant I was coming in being more aware of the process. I knew there would be a copyedited manuscript, first pass pages, catalog copy, jacket copy--I knew the basic schedule for what it takes to make a book. I also had an idea of what the publisher would be handling and what I'd have to take upon myself. There are differences across publishers, of course, so I did end up making some assumptions based on my own experiences. There were surprises, but I think the process did run more smoothly than it would have if I were coming in a complete newbie. It's still very different when it's your own book being published, but it definitely did help just having been through it all as an editor with so many debut authors.

What were a couple of your challenges with writing the book?

I kept wanting to rewrite the stories! This drove my family and friends crazy, and me too, quite honestly. I would talk about how I needed to do more work on the stories and my family would say, uh, haven't you worked on these enough already? Aren't you done yet? But I couldn't let them go until I was satisfied that they were ready.

How would you describe your main character? What is the overall message you want readers to take away?

If there is a main character in the book, that would be Andi Rowe. Even though she's not the main character in every story, or even present in every story, she's sort of the focal point and the other characters and stories branch out from her. She's a college student, figuring out her life--what is her relationship to her hometown after moving away, her relationships to her friends, family, etc.

I wasn't really trying to give any kind of message. I was writing around my interests, which have to do with relationships, faith, and heritage, to name a few. I wanted to create stories around these and pose questions, more than give any exact message. What I hope readers will take away is a feeling of intimacy with these characters and with this world.

Will the experience change how you edit books?

I don't think that it will, actually. Each manuscript and author has different needs and I only figure that out as I'm reading something.

What is your story of how you got your book published?

I saw an announcement for the Miguel Mármol Prize, which Curbstone Press gave out for a first work of fiction by a Latino author. The winner got a contract and a small advance. I had several stories, enough to make the page count. And I thought, I have a good shot at this! So I brushed them up and sent them in. Roberto Márquez was the judge and he picked my collection as the winner. Curbstone was going through some internal changes though, and they found they couldn't go ahead with publishing the books they'd acquired. So my book was stalled. Eventually, Curbstone was acquired by Northwestern University Press, which added them as a new imprint, Curbstone Books. My book was the inaugural book in the imprint. And that's it! It only took, hm, I think about 8 years! That's from when I first started working on the material to publication. I think I needed all that time though. My perspective on these stories has changed over the years--I developed a better understanding of what I wanted to accomplish with this book and I'm very grateful to Curbstone and NUP for making it happen!

Here is a clip of Toni reading from her book!

LINK
Felicidades,
Kathy :-)
Check out my new novel! MISS SCARLET'S SCHOOL OF PATTERNLESS SEWING

RERUN: Publicity Class (self-guided), $50, one week only!

2011-09-11T16:02:00.001-07:00

click for larger view

If you missed the first run of my online publicity class, I'm opening it up again! I've had a lot of requests for this, so I'm going to open it for this limited time. Sign ups will only be available for one week - today though Sunday, September 18th. Once you sign up, you'll have full access to the course for the next three months.

This is same course and materials I offered in June, except this round is self-guided - which means, everything is there for you to download, read, watch and click, etc. I won't be offering consultations like I did for the first group (hence the discounted price).

There is a LOT of fabulous information packed into this course, lots of insider tips from days working as a journalist!

TO SIGN UP:
Pay for the course below. Make SURE to use a PayPal email that works - this will be how I send you your class invite! Once you pay, i'll email you 1. Crafty Chica classroom invite and and 2. The PR Class invite.

Here is an intro video I did back in June about the class! Keep in mind that this "rerun" will not include personal consultations, the $50 special is a self-guided offering.

LINK
Felicidades,
Kathy :-)
Check out my new novel! MISS SCARLET'S SCHOOL OF PATTERNLESS SEWING

The Irish Soldiers of Mexico

2011-09-02T10:06:00.000-07:00

The Irish Soldiers of Mexico
by Michael Hogan

I'm excited to be a part of the Condor Book Tour for this very important title!

Publisher's summary:
"On the eve of Mexican-American War of 1848, a group of recently arrived Irish immigrants deserted the U.S. army and joined the Mexican army as the Saint Patrick's Battalion. This excellent study explores the motivations of the Irishmen, their valiant contributions to the Mexican cause, and the consequences for them when they were ultimately captured.
The Irish Soldiers of Mexico sold out four editions in English and two editions in Spanish from 1997 to 2001. It has been the basis of an MGM feature film starring Tom Berenger, two documentaries and has also been used in many history classes both in the United States and abroad. As Michael Hogan rightly points out in his introduction, American textbooks scarcely devote attention to this war. "Coverage," he writes, "generally consists of a two or three page section entitled Westward Expansion or Manifest Destiny."

This title is for anyone who is interested in the deeper historical roots of Mexican history and culture. It's a must-read - one for the bookshelves - because it shows a side to the U.S./Mexican war, that of ethnic diversity among the troops, that is not often observed. Hogan dives into the details of the Saga of the San Patricios - a poignant battle where the Los Angeles Times says "Irish immigrant soldiers who deserted and fought for the enemy during the war with Mexico are revered south of the border, honored in Ireland and all but forgotten in the United States." From the elements of controversy to the question of "cowardly deserters or genuine heroes," Hogan confronts these topics head on.

I have to admit, at first I felt intimidated at this book, such serious undertones to take in. But the further I progressed, the more I became engrossed, moved, heartwrenched, curious and empowered. I'll definitely pass along my copy to my kids to read now that they are in college.

Michael Hogan lives in Colonia Providencia, Guadalajara, Mexico, with his wife Lucinda Mayo, the internationally known fabric artist. Born in Newport, Rhode Island in 1943, he is the author of sixteen books, including a collection of short stories, six books of poetry, collected essays on teaching in Latin America, a novel, and a history of the Irish battalion in Mexico which formed the basis for an MGM movie starring Tom Berenger. His work has appeared in many journals such as the Paris Review, the Harvard Review, Z-Magazine, Political Affairs and the Monthly Review. He is a consultant to the U.S. Department of State’s Office of Overseas Schools in Latin America. As an author he has received wide recognition for his work, including a PEN Award, two Pushcart Prizes, an NEA fellowship, the Benjamin Franklin Award, the gold medal of the Mexican Geographical Society.
For more information visit the author's website at http://drmichaelhogan.com

Book Tour Schedule

Sunday August 21 5pm Eastern/2pm Pacific Author Livechat at Condor's Author Chat Salon!

Mon Aug 22 Musings (Author Guest Post)

Tues Aug 23 Latino Book Examiner (Author Q&A)

Wed Aug 24 Dulce Bread & Book Shop (Review)

Thurs Aug 25 Juan of Words ( Review)

Fri Aug 26 New Latina (Author Q&A)

Mon Aug 29 Vida de Oro (Author interview)

Tues Aug 30 La Bloga (Author Guest Post)

Wed Aug 31 Franky Benitez (Review)

Thurs Sep 1 Latina Book Club (Review)

Fri Sep 2 Chica Writer (Review)

Felicidades,
Kathy :-)
Check out my new novel! MISS SCARLET'S SCHOOL OF PATTERNLESS SEWING

REVIEW: The Peach Keeper

2011-07-12T00:00:00.000-07:00

The Peach Keeper
by Sarah Addison AllenBantam Books, 2011
Review by Ana Berumen for CraftyChica.com

We were all given labels in high school. There were the populars, the jocks, the punks, the loner, and little miss perfect. So try getting away from these labels when you are from a small town. Willa and Paxton do just that in The Peach Keeper.

Laced with superstitions and mystery, this is a story of two unlikely women bonding over an unlikely event. Willa is an independent, head strong woman, intent on folding laundry every Friday. Paxton juggles the running of a society club and her mother’s oppression all while trying not to fall in love with a gay man. While renovating The Blue Ridge Madam for the society club’s gala, a skeleton is found buried under a peach tree. Who was it? How did it get there? Paxton the princess, and Willa the joker, come together to find the
answers to these questions. The answers may just be held by their grandmothers.
But how do you get answers from one who is locked in her dementia and another
who is blind and cranky? Hidden behind the endless superstitions, love interests
and claims of magic, is a beautiful story of two women forming a friendship, and
learning what it means to be a friend. Beyond the mystery, it’s a page turner,
if just to find out what these characters will do next.

I loved this book, it was a perfect pool side read. No wait, it was more than
that. It ended up being a good airport read, a good waiting room read and a good
there-is-nothing-good-on-tv read. It made me into one of those annoying people
who walk and read with no concern for the people they are crashing into. I was
hooked into the mystery and the story but more than that, I yearned for Willa
and Paxton to walk arm and arm into the sunset. A good friendship is hard to
come by and I relished in the afterglow of theirs.
'Ana Marie is a reading, writing, crafting superhero' fighthopeheal.blogspot.com

Felicidades,
Kathy :-)
Check out my new novel! MISS SCARLET'S SCHOOL OF PATTERNLESS SEWING

BOOK REVIEW: The Girl Who Chased the Moon

2011-07-01T00:31:00.000-07:00

The Girl Who Chased the Moon by Sarah Addison Allen

My rating: 4 of 5 stars

I adore the writings of Sarah Addison Allen. Her novels remind me of adult fairy tales - sprinkled with magic dust; flawed, soulful characters that lure you into their world with beauty and mystery. This book fits right in with the program!

It revolves around two women, Emily and Julia. Emily is a quiet teen who goes to live with her 8-foot-tall gruff grandpa in a house that first appears creepy, but later - extremely captivating. Of all the rooms in the house, Emily chooses the one that belonged to her deceased mother. The wallpaper mysteriously changes patterns depending on the changes that take place in Emily's life. Happy frogs appear inside the dryer. Dancing lights live among the trees in the backyard. Romance sparks. Emily falls for a local boy who comes from a family with a long history of pain and misery. There are no werewolves or vampires under this Moon, but let's just say...Emily's guy carries a supernatural secret of his own.

Julia's story is equaling compelling. A past decision from her teen years haunts her as an adult. She is forced to trust in destiny to bring closure and peace to her heart. And for being brave enough to confront her insecurities and regrets, she is rewarded with not one gift of love, but two. A tasty highlight: Julia's passion is baking cakes and she uses the recipes and scents to attract positive energy to her life.

Magic or no magic, this is a wonderful book about taking risks, trusting instincts, asking questions until the truth is revealed.

View all my reviews

Felicidades,
Kathy :-)
Check out my new novel! MISS SCARLET'S SCHOOL OF PATTERNLESS SEWING

Review: Something Blue

2011-06-30T23:51:00.000-07:00

Something Blue by Emily Giffin

My rating: 3 of 5 stars

I didn't read 'Something Borrowed' before I read this book, not sure if it would have changed my experience.

    I wish I could say I liked this book more than I did. My first flaw with it is that I hate stories where lifelong female amigas backstab eachother by sleeping with eachother's boyfriends/fiances. Yes, I know at the end of the book, Darcy analyzes it all, but it still makes me cringe a bit.
   Now about Darcy - her arrogant, childish manners grated on my last nerve and it felt like this went of for half of the book. Even so, I put up with it because I knew something would happen that would trigger a change in her, but when it did come, it just didn't seem big enough. I expected a huge crash-and-burn, but it all boiled down to was - a conversation.
   One calm scolding from her friend Ethan, and suddenly she became a madeover angel with a heart of gold. I felt the transformation was too fast and forced.
   But - I'm a sucker for happy endings! I loved Ethan and the way he slowly warmed up to her. Out of everyone, he had the guts to shove the proverbial mirror in her face. I liked that he didn't let her manipulate him the way she did with her other men, even if they did end up dumping her. My favorite part was her trip to the OB/GYN when she recieved her first ultrasound and learned about her bonus prize.

The writing was clean, colorful and smooth. Even though I didn't like this book as much as 'Love The One You're With' (another title of hers), I am crazy curious to read 'Something Borrowed'!

View all my reviews

Felicidades,
Kathy :-)
Check out my new novel! MISS SCARLET'S SCHOOL OF PATTERNLESS SEWING

What is it with kids on book covers?

2011-06-27T00:21:00.000-07:00

Click to see a bigger view.

Last week I was at Target in the book section. Every time I go there, I stand in front of the budding authors section and visualize my books on those shelves. It hasn't happened yet, but I'm still working on it. I'm a firm believer in that kind of stuff. Maybe it won't be one of two novels, but one in the future after I'm grown into my books a little.

ANYWAY - my point for this picture...look at all these covers. They all have the backs of little kids on them. Must be some kind of trend. I Googled book cover trends and found this incredible round up by Publisher's Weekly: The Season of Windblown Hair - Or, the Zeitgeist of Book Covers.

I'm happy to say I've never seen a book cover that has spilled glitter bottles on the front like mine. :-)

BTW: I got some really good news about my two novels! "Listen" up for an update when I can announce the news!

Felicidades,
Kathy :-)
Check out my new novel! MISS SCARLET'S SCHOOL OF PATTERNLESS SEWING

Kibosh the clichés

2011-06-15T00:21:00.000-07:00

http://www.huffingtonpost.com/2011/06/14/one-mans-war-on-cliches_n_876565.html

I've been spending my nights writing these days and during one of my, um...breaks...I came across this article in the Huffington Post Books section. It's about a man who is set on stopping folks from using clichés. You may think you already have your warrior shields up in that department, but take a look at his list and see if there are any you fall victim to. What a buzzkill! (Yikes, I just used one, but so what!)

Click here to read the article.

I like that the article lists Orwell’s six rules:

- Never use a metaphor, simile, or other figure of speech which you are used to seeing in print.
- Never use a long word where a short one will do.
- If it is possible to cut a word out, always cut it out.
- Never use the passive where you can use the active.
- Never use a foreign phrase, a scientific word, or a jargon word if you can think of an everyday English equivalent.
- Break any of these rules sooner than say anything outright barbarous.

Good stuff to keep in mind for any kind of writing project!

Felicidades,
Kathy :-)
Check out my new novel! MISS SCARLET'S SCHOOL OF PATTERNLESS SEWING

Writing tips and more from Marcela Landres

2011-06-03T01:35:00.000-07:00

One of my writing mentors and coaches has been the wonderful Marcela Landres! Here is her latest newsletter where she shares information about online writing classes.

Good stuff - I thought I'd share it with you! Don't forget to sign up for her newsletter and buy her ebook!
OK...on to the newsletter...

From Marcela Landres:

Classes won't confer or expand talent. No matter how many singing lessons
she takes, Jennifer Lopez will never sound like Christina Aguilera. What
classes can do, however, is train you to make the most of the talent with
which you were born.

Writers who don't avail themselves of writing classes are like marathoners
who run with one leg tied up—they've put themselves at a distinct disadvantage.

Thanks to the Internet, everyone has access to writing classes. Not all of
them are created equal; the only online writing classes I recommend are those
offered by UCLA Extension. They are pricier than other classes, but you get
what you pay for. You are better off taking one class at UCLA Extension than
several classes somewhere else. To learn more, read this month's Q&A with
UCLA Extension instructor Liz Gonzalez.

Liz Gonzalez teaches creative writing courses online through the UCLA
Extension Writers' Program. She teaches "Essential Beginnings: An
Introductory Creative Writing Workshop" and "Writer as Witness to Life." For
more information about Liz, please visit http://www.lizgonzalez.com/
For more information about the UCLA Extension Writers' Program, please
visit http://www2.uclaextension.edu/writers/

Q: When is a writer ready for classes (e.g. when they have an idea, or have
written some pages, or have a complete manuscript, etc.)?
A: Since there is a wide range of courses available to any level of writer, I
think that a person is ready for classes when he or she feels comfortable
to share his or her work with others and wants to improve his or her craft
in a class environment. For example, one of the courses I teach through
the Writers' Program is "Essential Beginnings: An Introductory Creative
Writing Workshop." My students in this class vary. Some have been writing
in the closet or have wanted to try their hand at writing, some want a
brush up on the basics, and some fall somewhere between. All want to ease
into creative writing and are ready to work with a group.

Q: What are the advantages of online classes vs. brick-and-mortar classes?
A: As one who has taken and taught on-land and online courses, one big
advantage of the online courses is convenience. Students can check in
anytime of the day or night, in their pajamas or frumpies, after the children
have gone to bed, during a break at work, or before starting the day. I also
like having time to reread the lectures and work in the workshop and digest
them before responding. For a beginner, I think the anonymity is a safe way
to get started. I also like that I get to work with people from around the
country world. I have students stationed in the Middle East, traveling or
living in Asia, Europe, and South Africa. The diversity of voices and
perspectives from around the world make the classes and work more
engaging than in a local classroom, even one in a city as diverse as Los
Angeles.

Q: Which attributes and/or credentials should writers seek in a teacher?
A: This is a difficult question to answer. Students could take a course with
their favorite writer and find that the writer isn't an engaged teacher. Word
of mouth isn't always available. And having a degree or a great deal of
publications doesn't necessarily make a good instructor. I suggest that
writers read the instructor's bio to see if there is a pull. One can always
get a feel for an instructor during the first week, reading the posts,
lectures, and assignments, and if the class doesn't seem right for the
student, s/he can drop in time to get a refund.

Q: Could you offer three tips on how writers can make the most of their
experience in class?
A: * Be open. If you come in with a specific set of expectations, beyond
what the course promises, you might miss what that person has to teach you.
* Print the lectures and handouts. Read them closely, and reread them.
* Make time in your schedule for the class and meet deadlines.

Q: On the other hand, what are the top three mistakes writers should
absolutely avoid?
A: My response to this question applies most to new writers.
* Dismissing the value of rewriting. I am a big advocate of "rewriting is
writing."
* Not taking the time to hone one's craft before sending work out for
publication. Many writers, including myself, regret having "shoddy"
work published. You can never take it back!
* Not reading. Somewhere someone said, "Beware of the writer who has
written more than he or she has read." It's too true.

Q: How has your own writing influenced your teaching? And how has
your teaching influenced your writing?
A: In addition to "Essential Beginnings," I also teach a course I designed,
"Writer as Witness to Life," which addresses what I learned on my own
about "writing creatively about events and experiences that are personal
and important without getting too self-absorbed, sentimental, preachy, or
narrow." All the lessons I use for both classes are craft lessons I wish had
been taught to me when I started writing. They also give beginning writers
a stronger foundation in the craft basics.
Teaching creative writing keeps my craft chops sharp. It's a constant
reminder to practice a writing process and develop layer by layer. My
students' creative approaches to the writing assignments teach me too.
As poet and activist Raul Salinas would tell his workshop groups, I come to
learn as well.

3. Resources
***************************************************************
HOW EDITORS THINK
"I read How Editors Think in one sitting and was engaged from beginning to
end. It is well written, highly informative, and humorous—I found myself
laughing out-loud in a few spots! Thanks for sharing the secrets of the trade."
—Mayra Lazara Dole, author of Down to the Bone

Inspired by my experience as a former Simon & Schuster editor, How Editors
Think: The Real Reason They Rejected You reveals what it really takes to get
published. For more information, visit:
http://www.marcelalandres.com/E-book.html
***************************************************************
BUSHWICK MEDIA SEEKS STORIES
Deadline: June 21
Bushwick Media seeks short stories for Missing Pages, an anthology, from
gifted writers in between definable categories--published though perhaps
not in The New Yorker, authors not quite living off their royalties, and
natural storytellers who haven't yet pursued publication. For more information,
visit http://tinyurl.com/3vzmje3
*****
WRITER AS WITNESS TO LIFE ONLINE CLASS
Dates: July 6-September 7
Liz Gonzalez teaches how to enhance your observation abilities and
strengthen your description skills. This UCLA Extension online course is
appropriate for both fiction and creative nonfiction writers. For more
information, visit http://www2.uclaextension.edu/writers/
*****
THRILLER WRITING CONFERENCE
Dates: July 6-9
ThrillerFest is a four-day celebration of thriller books, the authors who write
them, and the fans who read them. Includes CraftFest, intensive writing classes,
and AgentFest, a gathering of agents looking for the Next Big Thing. For more
information, visit http://www.thrillerfest.com/
*****
YADDO RESIDENCY
Application Deadline: August 1
Residencies as short as two weeks are offered to poets, fiction writers,
and creative nonfiction writers. Artists from all nations and backgrounds
are encouraged to apply. A limited amount of financial aid for travel is
available. For more information, visit http://www.yaddo.org/
*****
TRAVEL/FOOD/PHOTOGRAPHY CONFERENCE
Dates: August 11-14
Book Passage's conference is geared towards travel writers & photographers
and food & cookbook writers. The faculty includes publishers, magazine editors,
photographers, travel essayists, food writers, restauranteurs, guidebook
writers, etc. For more information, visit
http://bookpassage.com/travel-food-photography-conference
*****
EMERGING VOICES FELLOWSHIPS
Deadline: August 15
For poets, fiction writers, and creative nonfiction writers from
underserved communities in the early stages of their careers. There
are no age restrictions. For more information, visit
http://www.penusa.org/tags/emerging-voices
*****
RAGDALE ARTIST'S RETREAT
Deadline: September 15
Ragdale offers residencies from two weeks to two months to emerging and
established artists, writers, and composers from all over the world. Past
residents include Jacquelyn Mitchard, Audrey Niffenegger, and Alice Sebold.
For more information, visit http://www.ragdale.org/
*****
SEEKING TEXT-WORTHY POEMS
Cellpoems, a poetry journal distributed via text message, seeks poems that
are strange, profound, and weird, condensed into 140 characters or less.
For more information, visit http://cellpoems.org/
*****
$25,000 BOOK AWARD SERIES
Narrative Magazine seeks previously unpublished story collections, novels,
memoirs, essay collections, general nonfiction, and graphic stories. There is no
deadline. For more information, visit http://www.narrativemagazine.com/award
*****
PENGUIN SEEKS PRODUCTION COORDINATOR/SUPERVISOR
Our production department has a terrific opportunity for someone to handle
the production of Penguin reprints. Applicants must have one year of book
production experience for coordinator level, or two years for supervisor
level. For more information, visit
http://us.penguingroup.com/static/pages/aboutus/jobopportunities.html
*****
KNOWLEDGE IS POWER ONLY WHEN SHARED
Please forward Latinidad® widely.
***************************************************************
For more resources, visit http://www.marcelalandres.com/resources.html
***************************************************************

Felicidades,
Kathy :-)
Check out my new novel! MISS SCARLET'S SCHOOL OF PATTERNLESS SEWING

REVIEW: Secret Lives of Dresses

2011-05-31T08:54:00.001-07:00

Review for ChicaWriter.com by Amy Byrne of Random Acts of Amy. Short link to review on her blog: http://wp.me/p1z34D-W

The Secret Lives of Dresses by Erin McKean is the story of a woman’s internal journey to find herself, after being adrift for most of her life.

Dora Winston is walking through her life with no discernible goal for her future. She’s in college on a scholarship, but, although she’s close to graduation, she doesn’t have a major. She figures she’ll go to graduate school…it’s as good a choice for a next step as any. Plus, it has the added advantage of Gary. Gary is her boss at the campus coffee shop where she works, and Dora has a major crush on him. Gary says he’s not allowed to date underclassmen, so Dora bides her time until she will be a graduate student, and free to date Gary. Meanwhile, she watches Gary move from girl to girl.

Tragedy strikes when her grandmother, Mimi, has a stroke, and is in a coma with not much hope. Mimi raised Dora as her own after Dora’s parents, Mimi’s son and daughter-in-law, are killed in a car accident. A lot of mystery shrouds the past, and Mimi won’t talk with Dora about her parents. In typical Dora fashion, she doesn’t push the issue, but she has a lot of questions that are left unanswered.

While Mimi is in the coma, Dora decides that she will run her vintage clothing shop. Dora spent much of her childhood there surrounded by the beautiful outfits of days gone by. However, Dora’s lack of enthusiasm for life extends to her wardrobe, and she is usually found in dumpy sweatshirts and jeans. But after rushing from campus to Mimi’s bedside, Dora left with the clothes on her back. This leaves the extensive closet full of outfits, coordinated from top to bottom, that Mimi’s been saving for Dora as her only source of clothing to wear. The clothing becomes important in Dora’s journey.

While waiting on her first buying customer, Dora discovers that some of the dresses in the store have a “secret life.” The secret lives are intensely personal, sometimes dark, and sometime happy snippets told from the point of view of the article of clothing. This discovery shocks Dora. Mimi never told Dora she did this, and this is a side of Mimi that Dora didn’t know existed.

Mimi’s best friend, housemate, and childhood staple Gabby, along with part time store worker Maux help Dora on her journey to discover herself. Contractor Conrad provides a foil to Gary and aids in Dora reexamining what she wants out of life. A wicked aunt, clueless uncle, and ditzy cousin just may be what Dora needs to kick herself to stand up for what she wants.

This was a good book that could have been a lot better. I give it three out of five stars. It often felt as though Dora’s ennui was seeping out of the pages of the book, which made it difficult to read at times.

Review for ChicaWriter.com by Amy Byrne of Random Acts of Amy.

Amy is a mother, a lover, a crafter, Chihuahua momma, embroiderer of the weird, vegetarian, animal lover, techno savvy, scifi geek, and professional librarian. She rocks.

REVIEW: Slate

2011-05-27T00:00:00.000-07:00

Review for ChicaWriter.com

by Sandra Lopez

Author of Esperanza: A Latina Story and Beyond the Gardens

Voted as one of 2011 Top Ten Latino Authors to watch

I just finished reading Slate by Brian Rowe.

It begins with a prologue depicting a mountain hike of a character named Nathan LeMille. The scene was well-written and filled with vivid details.

When I first started reading this, it seemed that the main character would be Nathan, but then chapter one begins with a woman named Vivien Slate, a casting director for movies, starring in the primary role. It made me wonder what happened to Nathan.

Like any typical TV businessman, Vivien is hard-working and extremely busy—so busy, in fact, that she can’t be bothered to remember an intern’s name. She can’t stand people who are ignorant about the entertainment industry; in fact, she nearly clobbers a video store clerk because of her lack of movie knowledge. Vivien also has a son, a child actor she desperately pushes into the spot light of fame and fortune.

We actually don’t run into Nathan again until he accidentally bumps into Vivien on the way to exiting the office of her son’s acting coach.

As the story continues, we are introduced to other characters: Christopher Bells, the storyboard artist with the bowel syndrome and a longing aspiration for the acting life; Lila Perrington, a 50-something “B-level” actress who hates to admit her real age; Garrett Skyler, a former child actor that grew into a hunk that now ignites a fire in Vivien’s fantasies; Tyler Stiletto, a “show me the money” agent; Alyson Baumgartner, the film/acting student who is barely learning the non-California lingo of the industry; and, of course, Nathan LeMille (the guy we meet in the prologue,) another actor trying to get his face out there, even though the scar on his chin was his worst enemy. Every character—all of which come into the story with their own personal baggage—is somehow connected to Vivien, as she, herself, struggles to find balance in her career and family. But then Vivien’s world starts to crash and burn after she catches her husband sticking it to his young secretary in their Jacuzzi, to which, Vivien goes ballistic, grabs a bat, and chases after her cheating husband (a very entertaining scene!)

After that, Vivien can only think of one thing: to get back at her husband for what he did. One way—the only way, as it was bluntly stated—was for her to cheat on him. And that becomes her mission throughout the entire book. I liked how, in the beginning, Vivien was so clumsy about the whole getting-laid thing, especially in regards to the entire process—going to late-night bars, flirting, making eye-contact, going for the first kiss, etc. This gave her character a comedy quality, one straight out of a Sandra Bullock movie.

Eventually, Vivien decides that it would be easier to cast her perfect man; and a fake movie that everyone wants to audition for is born. But suddenly her mission for a one-night stand takes a different turn as Vivien’s true desire is to go to bed with one man for the rest of her life.

Full of humor and sensitivity, this story takes us on a fun roller coaster ride through Hollywood. It was interesting to learn the back story of the movie industry—the casting, the script readings, the editing, the behind-the-scenes look into the real office life. The author clearly knew a lot about movies and had a sense of humor about it. But I did feel that there were a few too many characters, so many that it took some of the focus away from Vivien. Was it really necessary to map out everybody’s life story in so much detail? However, despite the fact that there were too many people, the writer does take us back to the story, clean and simple, without losing the reader’s interest. I must also add that the book had a bit too much sex for my taste. Not that there’s anything wrong with a little sex in a story, but, in retrospect, I do tend to get a little put off—not to mention disgusted—when it gets too racy. I basically had to skip those scenes.

In any sense, curiosity compels you to keep on reading as you wonder how it will all end. Will Vivien achieve what she set out to do? Will she feel any differently about it? How will it affect her and those around her? Will she be happy with herself when this is all over? You can’t help but feel sympathy for Vivien as she goes through a crumbling marriage; however, she also portrays a selfish side I didn’t quite care for when she uses her power as casting director to seduce potential actors. Maybe she deserved to be a little selfish, but not at the advantage of a poor, struggling actor—that’s not professional. Did she really think she could find true love this way?

Towards the end, Vivien becomes more naive, clueless, and temperamental, which all rendered her as a true-to-life character. I mean, I’ll bet there are a lot of people like her in Hollywood Land. Overall, this was a quick and easy read, even as an E-book (I personally prefer reading my stories from an actual book in my hand as opposed to a computer screen.) Still, I could not wait to see how it would end.

Direct Link to this posting: http://sandrasbookclub.blogspot.com/2011/04/review-slate-by-brian-rowe.html

Sandra Lopez

Author of Esperanza: A Latina Story and Beyond the Gardens

Voted as one of 2011 Top Ten Latino Authors to watch

Visit her website - www.sandra-lopez.com

Sandra's Book Club - http://sandrasbookclub.blogspot.com

Felicidades,
Kathy :-)
Check out my new novel! MISS SCARLET'S SCHOOL OF PATTERNLESS SEWING

Ever flub a speech? Please share!

2011-05-24T00:00:00.000-07:00

Here I am with Diana Gabaldon! She has sold more than 17 million copies of her books, can you imagine?

Last Friday I had an event that I had been looking forward to for months. I was invited to be on an author panel for the Scottsdale Public Library's annual fundraiser.

Wouldn't you know, our car was on the fritz. My mother-in-law lent me her Kia, but Mapquest failed me and I got lost. I did arrive right on time - in the parking garage. I had to hoof it up three flights of stairs. As I entered the library all sweaty and out of breath, a young man rushed me to the front of the room at the main stage - and sat me next to Diana Gabaldon!

My heart raced, I'm a huge fan. Next, I noticed cocktail attire. I had been so busy with my crafty work projects, I didn't think to dress up. I'm talking jeans and frizzy hair.

The mayor of Scottsdale stood up and made an empowering speech. All the attendees were there to show Scottsdale pride and support their majestic city. Next, the president of the organization made the introductions and requested that each of us to go up and tell a bit about our book.

When my turn came, I was still flustered. Sweaty palms. Stimulation overload! No excuse - I know, but it was what it was, ok? I walked up to the podium and exhaled. Cool. You see, something comes over me when it comes to public speaking. I turn into a different person. I've had more than a hundred speaking engagements over the years. No worries. Therefore, I channeled last week's kick-butt signing in downtown Glendale. I felt empowered!

I scanned the crowd and smiled bright. "Thank you for having me, I'm very honored to be here! My new book is titled Miss Scarlet's School of Patternless Sewing and it takes place in downtown Glendale!" I chirped.

Silence.

"Power to the 623!" I cheered, as I pumped my chubby fist high in the air, like a Chicana activist or something. Where that came from, I HAVE NO IDEA! I haven't pumped my fist in the air like that since high school when I saw Heart in concert.

Silence... and funny looks. Gulp.

"Aw, crap." I said in my head. 623 is the area code for Glendale. I was at a Scottsdale fundraiser. I knew that. It's like the equivalent of a band yelling out "Yay, Vegas!" in Phoenix. I had to think fast before I got booed off the stage by fancy folks in high heels and business suits....

What did I do as a remedy?

I pumped my fist in the air a second time and shouted "AND... power to the four-eight-oooooh!" (Scottsdale's area code)

A couple people seemed to nod with approval, a few giggled, making me feel a bit relieved. But then I worried about Phoenix peeps in the crowd - I'm a middle child who aims to please - I didn't want them to feel left out.

So I, um, pumped my fist for a third time and shouted "AND power to the 602, too!"

*shakes head* Oh. My. Gah. Can you say embarrassed times infinity?

I moved on to the plot of my book, and the rest of the speech flowed smoothly. I signed a lot of books and met so many fabulous peeps, like Diana Gabaldon, Dr. Connie Mariano, Donis Casey, Marcia Fine and Rico Austin.

Despite my goofy moment on the mic, everyone made me feel welcome, beautiful, accepted and happy. I really appreciated that - especially considering that later in the evening I discovered a huge green paint smear on that same fist I pumped in the air three times!

UPDATE: I guess I didn't do too bad, I got hired for three more speaking events off of this one!

OK, have you ever had a speech fail? Please share in the comments! I'll choose one name to win a set of my two novels!

Felicidades,
Kathy :-)
Check out my new novel! MISS SCARLET'S SCHOOL OF PATTERNLESS SEWING

Call for Essay Submissions: Family Caregivers

2011-05-21T00:00:00.000-07:00

I saw this on ChickenSoupfortheSoul and thought I'd pass it along!

Chicken Soup for the Soul: Family Caregivers
101 Stories of Love, Sacrifice, and Bonding

We are excited to announce that we are working with Joan Lunden on this book, which will be published in March 2012. Joan is very passionate about this topic as she is the family member in charge of her mother's care.

Caring for a family member in need on an on-going basis is a very difficult task, whether the care is in your home, the patient's home, or an outside facility. It requires the caregiver to be patient, kind, compassionate and giving. And having a little humor doesn't hurt! Are you caring for a member of your family due to a chronic illness or long-term or permanent physical or mental disabilities? Did you move in with a family member to care for him or her due to old age or Alzheimer's? Are you part of the "sandwich" generation - caring for a parent and a child at the same time? Or are you the person receiving care from a family member? Your stories are important too.

We want to hear from you if you are caring for a member of your family or if you are a person receiving care from a family member. (Please know that we are in awe of professional caregivers, but for this book, we only want stories from family members caring for family members.) The true stories in this book will show how lives change when caregiving becomes your responsibility. They will inspire and support family members who are making sacrifices to make sure their loved ones are well cared for, whether in their own homes or elsewhere.

If your story is chosen, you will be a published author and your bio will be printed in the book if you so choose. You will also receive a check for $200 and 10 free copies of your book, worth more than $100. You will retain the copyright for your story and you will retain the right to resell it.

Please remember, we do not like "as told to" stories. Please write in the first person about yourself or someone close to you. Do not ghost write a story for someone else. If a story was previously published, we will probably not use it unless it ran in a small circulation venue. Let us know where the story was previously published in the "Comments" section of the submission form.

SUBMISSIONS GO TO http://chickensoup.com
Select the Submit Your Story link on the left tool bar and follow the directions.

The deadline date for story submissions is July 30, 2011.

Felicidades,
Kathy :-)
Check out my new novel! MISS SCARLET'S SCHOOL OF PATTERNLESS SEWING

REVIEW: The Red Thread

2011-05-20T00:00:00.000-07:00

Review for ChicaWriter.com

by Ana Marie Berumen

Fighthopeheal.blogspot.com

Ana is a special education teacher who enjoys reading, writing and crafting, when she’s not trying to save the world.

The Red Thread: A Novel

By Ann Hood

Synopsis from publisher:

“In China there is a belief that people who are destined to be together are connected by an invisible red thread. Who is at the end of your red thread?” After losing her infant daughter in a freak accident, Maya Lange opens The Red Thread, an adoption agency that specializes in placing baby girls from China with American families. Maya finds some comfort in her work, until a group of six couples share their personal stories of their desire for a child. Their painful and courageous journey toward adoption forces her to confront the lost daughter of her past. Brilliantly braiding together the stories of Chinese birth mothers who give up their daughters, Ann Hood writes a moving and beautifully told novel of fate and the red thread that binds these characters’ lives. Heartrending and wise, The Red Thread is a stirring portrait of unforgettable love and yearning for a baby.

The Red Thread (W. W. Norton & Company, 304 pages) ended up in my on going three-book-at-a-time rotation. It kept being put on the back burner as I read about murder and debauchery. What’s that saying about judging a book by its cover? I’ll admit to picking up the neon colored fancy fonted books first. However, once I resolved to read it, I found myself hooked within the first few pages.

Ann Hood takes the reader through the process of adopting a daughter from China through the eyes of potential parents and the adoption agent who ultimately connects them with the one desire they all have in common. Maya, proprietor of The Red Thread adoption agency, struggles to find her way after the death of her child and subsequent divorce. Focusing on helping families adopt babies allows her to ignore her past until she meets someone who opens her up to the possibilities she had been denying herself. Throughout the novel the reader learns the stories of the prospective parents and goes through the process of adoption with them, the application, the waiting, the yearning, the decision making.. Hood also includes probable scenarios that would lead a mother to make the excruciating decision to abandon her baby daughter.

I was completely enthralled with the stories of these characters. Any reader will find one to identify with. I found myself nervous for them as they embarked upon the huge decision to adopt. I turned the pages in anticipation as they waited (and waited…and waited) for a match. I laughed and cried with them when they held their daughters for the first time.

I am of the “weekly reader generation.” You know those news magazines sent to grade schools? I clearly remember when I first learned of the many abandoned baby girls in China. As outsiders we are told about the fines and taxes on parents who have more than one child. We learn the antiquated village mentality on sons vs. daughters. Hood gives us a glimpse into the mind of a mother in China having to leave her baby on the doorstep of a police station or in the middle of a park, hoping she will be found by someone who will love her.

This is a beautifully written book, even without a brightly colored cover. Crafters will appreciate the sprinkled in knitting references (The Knitting Circle, another novel by Hood will soon be adapted into a movie). As a grief blogger, I appreciated the use of her own journey through grief. Hood lost a daughter which is chronicled in Comfort: A Journey Through Grief.

Review by Ana Marie Berumen, Fighthopeheal.blogspot.com Ana is a special education teacher who enjoys reading, writing and crafting, when she’s not trying to save the world.

A very nice review from The Self-Rescue Princess!

2011-05-19T01:21:00.000-07:00

The most important element of the characters I write is that they have to be independent and self-reliant. Maybe not at the beginning of the book, but for sure by the end. I love that reviewer Christina Freeburn "got" it and even wrote a review of my novel. Thank you, Christina!

"The character of Mary Theresa brought home the fact there is a balance between being a self-rescuing princess and a damsel in distress, a characteristic that is good and empowering can turn into one that is unpleasant and harmful if a person is not careful. Mary Theresa came into her own in the story and in the end, she landed up being my favorite character."

Here is the rest of her review. If you are working on a writing project, I highly suggest you subscribe to Cristina's site. It has the perfect balance of reviews, writing tips, and more.

Her blog
Felicidades,
Kathy :-)

ONLINE CLASS: DIY Publicity for Indie Artists! June 5-30

2011-05-18T09:00:00.000-07:00

I'm very excited to announce my first Crafty Chica Online Workshop! I'll be doing these throughout the year and will rotate the topics. For my first offering, I'm going with something everyone can use - PUBLICITY! This is an awesome class for artists, authors, small business owners, musicians and more. This is for people like ME who can't afford to hire a PR person, but who have the chops to DIY it. This four-week class is intensive, LOTS of information, videos, worksheets, homework, live chats. This class is $125, but I have a little celebratory kick off price for the next 48 hours. See below...

Working with the press has been the backbone of my career for the past 25 years, and it's been in all different capacities!

- I started in PR and earned my AA in Advertising and Marketing. I went on to be a public relations clerk, and then an event and PR coordinator for a chain of restaurants.
- I then went to work for a major daily Arizona newspaper for 13 years and earned my BA in Business. The first half of my paper gig, I worked as a clerk coordinating listings, sorting through thousands of pieces of mail and press releases, finding captivating topics for photo shoots, working hard on small stories and features to groom me to become a reporter. I finally did become a reporter! I spent many years conducting interviews, searching for the cream of the crop of interesting people to write about. I worked with companies big and small and was always amazed - or unimpressed - by their publicity tactics. I pulled out the best of all my experience and used it for CraftyChica.com!

This is a course I know I was meant to teach. In fact, I taught this class at an art retreat a few years back to a sold-out room. I still hear from many of those students about how much they appreciated all the tips I offered. It took a lot out of me energy wise, and I haven't taught it since - until now!

Here are 'brief' summaries of what we'll cover:

WEEK 1: The Foundation of You: Becoming Newsworthy. Exercises in writing a compelling bio, organizing your web site, blogging tips, mission statement, taglines, finding specific gems in your business that you can market, energizing your platform, being alluring, and much more.

WEEK 2: Crafting the Perfect Pitch. From one-sheets to elevator pitches, I'll share what has worked for me, along with tips for testimonials, keeping your vibe fresh, working with local media, booking events and appearances, media tools, editorial packages for your blog or design themes, trending. It's all about "the hook" and you'll learn the art of it!

WEEK 3: Writing a Press Release and contact letters. By this time, you'll know who you want to market to and what your story angles are. You'll learn the old school style of releases, as well as the new and create a mash-up between the two that is tailored to your brand and business. You'll learn the do's and don'ts of these, as well as cover letters and contacting editors and producers by email.

WEEK 4: Spreading the word and following up! This is where we put it all together! I'll show you all the different techniques for getting the word out, following up, sending swag, press invites, the right and wrong way to send packages, blog hops, submitting to big sites, cross promoting, networking online and in person, working with sponsors, pitching to networks, SEO, writing good blog headlines, keywords, tips for viral marketing, look books and press kits.

This is basically a huge live-action Artist's Publicity 101 book!

What to expect:

- We'll have a private classroom at http://craftychica.ning.com. Students will have access to all the content for three-months, 24-7.

- Work at your own pace! Once you register, you can check in every week to participate in all the offerings, or up to three months later.

- You will have optional downloadable homework each week - it will be your time to really concentrate and focus on your brand and where you want to go. You can keep it personal or have me look at it to help with ideas for you.

- My original brand strategy downloadable worksheets that you can fill out at your leisure. These date back to my early days when I launched Crafty Chica, and flow through to present day.

- Directions for making an artful publicity binder to hold all your lesson plans.

- Downloadable weekly lesson plans.

- Photo gallery of ideas and inspirations.

- Weekly online chat on my Ustream channel. This is where I'll go over live examples, your work (those who say it's ok!) and I'll answer questions that you have. Chat transcripts will be available.

- Daily motivational tips throughout the course.

- Discussion forum.

- Keep in mind, all of these things worked for me and they can help you too. As with everything, everyone will have different results. It's like a glitter recipe - there is no way to duplicate the formula. But working every angle will certainly increase your results! Please see workshop policies here.

LINK

PRICE: This class is $125.00

but I'm running a discount price of $99.00 from now through NOON PT, Friday, May 20th, 2011.

After that, the price will go to $125.00. Credit and debit card payments accepted through PayPal below. Thanks!

Felicidades,
Kathy :-)
Check out my new novel! MISS SCARLET'S SCHOOL OF PATTERNLESS SEWING

CRAFT: Bookish Business Card Holder

2011-05-18T01:35:00.000-07:00

Photo credit: Allison Patrick

Allison Patrick is on a mission to finish 30 projects in 30 weeks and this is one of her projects.

As an author, at first this recycled page promo tool made me wince - but you know what? I think with the right "unwanted" hardback, this would make an excellent conversation piece for writers and speakers...or anyone else who uses words, books or pages in the theme of their work.

LINK TO TUTORIAL.

See more of Allison's projects at her blog, the3rsblog.wordpress.com

Felicidades,
Kathy :-)

My next appearance: This Friday at Arizona Authors & Appetizers!

2011-05-17T08:31:00.000-07:00

Click for larger view

I'm very honored to be a part of this wonderful local event! Here are all the details:

Arizona Authors & Appetizers

Silent Auction, Friends of the Library

Friday May 20, 2011

Time: 6:00 pm to 8:30 pm

Mix and mingle while listening and sharing with great authors, dining on delicious appetizers, and bidding on awesome silent auction items. Authors: Diana Gabaldon, Dr. Connie Marano, Kathy Cano-Murillo, Donis Casey, Marcia Fine, Rico Austin

Diana Gabaldon

The Exile: An Outlander Graphic Novel

(Random House, 2010)

Diana Gabaldon’s brilliant storytelling has captivated millions of readers in her bestselling and award-winning Outlander saga. Now, in her first-ever graphic novel, Gabaldon gives readers a fresh look at the events of the original Outlander: Jamie Fraser’s side of the story, gorgeously rendered by artist Hoang Nguyen.

Diana Gabaldon is a born storyteller . . . the pages practically turn themselves. - Arizona Republic

Outlander the Musical - released in September of 2010 - is a new Scottish musical based on the bestselling book Outlander, by Diana Gabaldon.

Lord John and the Scottish Prisoner is the next novel in the Lord John series currently being written by Diana Gabaldon. A release date has not been announced.

Dr. Connie Mariano

The White House Doctor My Patients Were Presidents - A Memoir

(Thomas Dunne Books, 2010)

Dr. Connie Mariano served 9 years at the White House under Presidents George H.W. Bush, William J. Clinton, and George W. Bush. The White House Doctor is a fascinating look into what goes on behind closed doors at 1600 Pennsylvania Avenue.

Dr. Mariano always kept her cool and her sense of humor, which she retains in this unusual inside look at the White House. - Publisher’s Weekly

Marcia Fine

Stressed in Scottsdale

L’Image Press, LLC, 2010)

Jean Rubin, a multi-tasker, has too much to do. She tries to find sanity in a world where environmental issues and political corruption make you laugh out loud. Wickedly funny! Voted Best in the Satire/Humor Category by The Arizona Publishers Association's 2010 Arizona Book Awards.

Marcia Fine’s keen eye for detail, sharp-witted humor, and addition of relatable subject matter create an entertaining and enjoyable read. - Bookpleasures.com

Kathy Cano-Murillo

Miss Scarlet's School of Patternless Sewing

(Grand Central Publishing, 2011)

Sometimes to find your life's true path, you have to stray outside the lines . . . Scarlet Santana is never happier than when creating fabulous fashions for women of all shapes and sizes. Now, after years of hard work, she finally has the chance to live her dream and study under the hottest designer in New York. Release Date: March 2011

Kathy Cano-Murillo has authored seven books including Crafty Chica's Art de la Soul and Crafty Chica's Guide to Artful Sewing.

Donis Casey

Crying Blood - An Alafair Tucker Mystery

(Poisoned Pen Press, 2011)

After finding human remains during a hunting trip in 1915 Oklahoma, Shaw Tucker is followed home by Crying Blood, a Creek Indian Boy seeking his brother’s murderer. When the boy winds up dead as well, Shaw is deter-mined to catch the killer while his wife, Alafair, is equally determined to keep Shaw from getting himself killed as well.

Powerful as a blue norther sweeping across the Creek Nation, Crying Blood is a gripping entry in Donis Casey's superb Alafair Tucker series. - Carolyn Hart

Rico Austin

My Bad Tequila

(PowWow Publishing, 2010)

Mystery, Mayhem, Madness...

Margaritas & Mexico.

One man's epic journey across two continents and four countries with 50 years of adventure.

My Bad Tequila is headed for the big screen... screenplay and casting is currently in progress!

A realistic story-teller, My Bad Tequila an engaging and bittersweet read. There’s just not enough of this sort of fun and fast-reading fiction out there anymore. -The VirtualScribe

My Bad Tequila, the hit single song , was co-written by Rico Austin and Elly Garrison, who also sings and performs the song with her band QuarterDeck.

For more Information: For sponsorship information, go to:

http://scottsdalelibraryfriends.org/05202011Sponsor.pdf

$45 (non-members)

$40 (Friends members)

Payment by check, Visa and MasterCard

Tickets available below:

www.girlmeatsfork.com/events/authorsandappetizers/

Location Information:

Scottsdale Civic Center Library

3839 N Drinkwater Blvd

Scottsdale 85251 - [View Mapquest Map]

Tel: (480) 312-7323

Directions:

Southeast corner of Indian School and Drinkwater Blvd - Parking entrance on Drinkwater just south of the bridge. Two levels of parking available.

Felicidades,

Kathy :-)

REVIEW: Assault With a Deadly Glue Gun

2011-05-16T00:00:00.000-07:00

Assault with a Deadly Glue Gun (An Anastasia Pollack Crafting Mystery) - Paperback by Lois Winston

The title alone made me stop for a second look. A murder mystery centered around a crafts editor at a fashion magazine and her industrial glue gun? Count me in! First thing I wanted to know was - what was the method? Hot gluing the nostrils and lips shut so the victim couldn't breathe? Well, not exactly...

Description:

When Anastasia Pollack's husband permanently cashes in his chips at a roulette table in Vegas, her comfortable middle-class life is suddenly kaput. She's left with two teenage sons, a mountain of debt, and her hateful, cane-wielding Communist motherin-law. Not to mention stunned disbelief over her late husband's secret gambling addiction, and the loan shark who's demanding fifty thousand dollars.
Anastasia's job as crafts editor for a magazine proves no respite when she discovers a dead body glued to her office chair. The victim, fashion editor Marlys Vandenburg, collected enemies and ex-lovers like Jimmy Choos on her ruthless climb to editor-in-chief. But when evidence surfaces of an illicit affair between Marlys and Anastasia's husband, Anastasia becomes the number one suspect.

This is a light, fast-paced read (I finished in one day) with a lot of action, teeming with snappy one-liners and zingers. Be ready for a ~~double~~ quadruple serving of bad luck for our heroine, Anastasia. While most people would crawl into fetal position, Anastasia keeps her chin up and plows onward until her business is back in order.

The plot is trimmed with outlandish, zany characters that weave in and out of the main plot. While at times I felt like I needed to stop and take a breath because the story moved almost too fast, I loved Winston's glowing gift of snappy comebacks. I giggled a lot while taking this one in. I could see Winston with a second career as a sitcom scribe.

This is the first in a series of Anastasia Pollack crafting mysteries, and Chapter One of the next title, Mop Doll Murders, is included at the back of Glue Gun.

Oh! I appreciated the clever crafty ideas within the story as well.
"The police had confiscated my computer, desk chair, all my supplies, and - worst of all - the three dozen satin birdseed roses scheduled for this morning's photo shoot."

If you like crafty mysteries, this is a must-have for your collection!

LINK

Felicidades,
Kathy :-)
Check out my new novel! MISS SCARLET'S SCHOOL OF PATTERNLESS SEWING

Miss Scarlet-inspired earrings by blogger Michelle Mach!

2011-05-15T11:33:00.000-07:00

I love it when people read my books and not only blog, but also CRAFT! These are a pair of Miss Scarlet's School of Patternless Sewing earrings that blogger Michelle Mach made after reading my novel. You can read her entire review here.

From her blog review page:

Jewelry Inspiration
"I couldn't resist making some earrings inspired by this book. I used a mix of flowers, buttons, and a brass thimble and pair of scissors to create these earrings. I handpainted the buttons with a mix of red and purple and sewed them with embroidery thread to the flowers. The red is an obvious link to the main character, Scarlet. The ear wires are niobium, a hypoallergenic material. While Scarlet may appear flighty, she does have a practical side that I wanted to represent."

You'll Enjoy This Book If
"You want a behind-the-scenes look at the sewing/fashion world or the world of a popular craft blogger. I found the sewing class scenes, the blogs, Scarlett's repeated mention of her sewing product when meeting a famous actress (that girl can sell!), and the portrayal of the at-any-cost corporate world (sadly) realistic. I especially enjoyed the duct-tape dress form scene. Hilarious!"

Thank you, Michelle!

Felicidades,
Kathy :-)
Check out my new novel! MISS SCARLET'S SCHOOL OF PATTERNLESS SEWING

REVIEW: World of Geekcraft

2011-05-14T09:07:00.000-07:00

World of Geekcraft: Step-by-Step Instructions for 25 Super-Cool Craft Projects by Susan Beal

My rating: 5 of 5 stars

When it comes to delivering quality craft books, Susan Beal has it covered. Just like all her other creative titles, this one is specific, wholehearted and written with mucho detail!

World of Geek Craft is dedicated to those who love all things sci fi, fantasy and more. Rather than solely relying on collectibles to purchase, Susan shares how to make our own pieces of pop culture gold.

What I love the most is that this book is perfect for guys and boys. With the right theme, they too can be lured into the world of cross stitch, mosaic art and sewing! I'm talking Buffy and Einstein to Star Wars and Harry Potter.

The reason every crafter needs this book is because at some point they'll come across a geeky family or friend that will need to specialty gift. This book is the best source for that!

The only trouble is, where to start?

Felicidades,
Kathy :-)
Check out my new novel! MISS SCARLET'S SCHOOL OF PATTERNLESS SEWING

REVIEW: Esperanza's Box of Saints

2011-05-14T01:45:00.000-07:00

I haven't had a lot of time to read new books, so I thought I'd add reviews of titles I've read in the past. There are a lot of them!

Esperanza's Box of Saints by Maria Amparo Escandon comes to mind first.

Summary from publisher:

Esperanza's Box of Saints is a magical, humorous, and passion-filled odyssey about a beautiful young widow's search for her missing child -- a mission that takes her from a humble Mexican village to the rowdy brothels of Tijuana and a rarely seen side of Los Angeles. Rescued from turmoil by her favorite saint, Esperanza embarks on a journey that tests her faith, teaches her the ways of the world, and transforms her from a fervently religious innocent to an independent, sexual, and passionately devout woman.

Honestly, this book gave me faith to write my first novel. I'm not a flowery wordsmith like traditional authors of serious literature, and I don't write sassy and sexy prose like many bestselling chick-lit authors. Me? I love magical realism, Mexican pop culture, Ghost World-esque weirdness and the tearjerking melodrama of a decent Douglas Sirk flick ...and you know what? Esperanza's Box of Saints has a touch of it all! I read this book, lurved it (heard about how many others did too) and knew there was a market for quirky Latina fiction.

This book gripped me from the first few pages when Esperanza explains to her priest that San Judas Tadeo appeared to her in her oven window as she cleaned it. She hadn't scoured the glass for months - which she says was also divine intervention because San Judas needed the proper amount of grime in order to properly manifest. And that experience sends her on a heartwrenching quest to search for her missing daughter. There are luchadors, saints, yummy food, surprises, comedy, sadness and best of all, a message that hope will always prevail in times of struggle.

Right after I read this book, I learned a movie had been made. Eh, the film translation didn't do the story justice at all. And that's coming from someone who is easy to please!

Felicidades,
Kathy :-)

My next appearance: This Friday at Arizona Authors & Appetizers!

2011-05-14T01:44:00.000-07:00

Click for larger view

I'm very honored to be a part of this wonderful local event! Here are all the details:

Arizona Authors & Appetizers
Silent Auction, Friends of the Library
Friday May 20, 2011
Time: 6:00 pm to 8:30 pm
Mix and mingle while listening and sharing with great authors, dining on delicious appetizers, and bidding on awesome silent auction items. Authors: Diana Gabaldon, Dr. Connie Marano, Kathy Cano-Murillo, Donis Casey, Marcia Fine, Rico Austin

Diana Gabaldon
The Exile: An Outlander Graphic Novel
(Random House, 2010)

Diana Gabaldon’s brilliant storytelling has captivated millions of readers in her bestselling and award-winning Outlander saga. Now, in her first-ever graphic novel, Gabaldon gives readers a fresh look at the events of the original Outlander: Jamie Fraser’s side of the story, gorgeously rendered by artist Hoang Nguyen.
Diana Gabaldon is a born storyteller . . . the pages practically turn themselves. - Arizona Republic
Outlander the Musical - released in September of 2010 - is a new Scottish musical based on the bestselling book Outlander, by Diana Gabaldon.
Lord John and the Scottish Prisoner is the next novel in the Lord John series currently being written by Diana Gabaldon. A release date has not been announced.

Dr. Connie Mariano
The White House Doctor My Patients Were Presidents - A Memoir
(Thomas Dunne Books, 2010)

Dr. Connie Mariano served 9 years at the White House under Presidents George H.W. Bush, William J. Clinton, and George W. Bush. The White House Doctor is a fascinating look into what goes on behind closed doors at 1600 Pennsylvania Avenue.
Dr. Mariano always kept her cool and her sense of humor, which she retains in this unusual inside look at the White House. - Publisher’s Weekly

Marcia Fine
Stressed in Scottsdale
L’Image Press, LLC, 2010)

Jean Rubin, a multi-tasker, has too much to do. She tries to find sanity in a world where environmental issues and political corruption make you laugh out loud. Wickedly funny! Voted Best in the Satire/Humor Category by The Arizona Publishers Association's 2010 Arizona Book Awards.
Marcia Fine’s keen eye for detail, sharp-witted humor, and addition of relatable subject matter create an entertaining and enjoyable read. - Bookpleasures.com

Kathy Cano-Murillo
Miss Scarlet's School of Patternless Sewing
(Grand Central Publishing, 2011)

Sometimes to find your life's true path, you have to stray outside the lines . . . Scarlet Santana is never happier than when creating fabulous fashions for women of all shapes and sizes. Now, after years of hard work, she finally has the chance to live her dream and study under the hottest designer in New York. Release Date: March 2011
Kathy Cano-Murillo has authored seven books including Crafty Chica's Art de la Soul and Crafty Chica's Guide to Artful Sewing.

Donis Casey
Crying Blood - An Alafair Tucker Mystery
(Poisoned Pen Press, 2011)

After finding human remains during a hunting trip in 1915 Oklahoma, Shaw Tucker is followed home by Crying Blood, a Creek Indian Boy seeking his brother’s murderer. When the boy winds up dead as well, Shaw is deter-mined to catch the killer while his wife, Alafair, is equally determined to keep Shaw from getting himself killed as well.
Powerful as a blue norther sweeping across the Creek Nation, Crying Blood is a gripping entry in Donis Casey's superb Alafair Tucker series. - Carolyn Hart

Rico Austin
My Bad Tequila
(PowWow Publishing, 2010)
Mystery, Mayhem, Madness...
Margaritas & Mexico.
One man's epic journey across two continents and four countries with 50 years of adventure.
My Bad Tequila is headed for the big screen... screenplay and casting is currently in progress!
A realistic story-teller, My Bad Tequila an engaging and bittersweet read. There’s just not enough of this sort of fun and fast-reading fiction out there anymore. -The VirtualScribe
My Bad Tequila, the hit single song , was co-written by Rico Austin and Elly Garrison, who also sings and performs the song with her band QuarterDeck.

For more Information: For sponsorship information, go to:
http://scottsdalelibraryfriends.org/05202011Sponsor.pdf

$45 (non-members)
$40 (Friends members)
Payment by check, Visa and MasterCard
Tickets available below:
www.girlmeatsfork.com/events/authorsandappetizers/

Location Information:

Scottsdale Civic Center Library
3839 N Drinkwater Blvd
Scottsdale 85251 - [View Mapquest Map]

Tel: (480) 312-7323
Directions:
Southeast corner of Indian School and Drinkwater Blvd - Parking entrance on Drinkwater just south of the bridge. Two levels of parking available.
Felicidades,
Kathy :-)

FREE project from new Signature Styles book!

2011-05-13T12:28:00.000-07:00

I'm so excited to be included in Signature Styles: 20 Stitchers Craft Their Look by Jenny Doh.
It features profiles of twenty "stitchers," all in their creative element. There are interviews, project tutorials and amazing photographs. My photos are very sentimental to me because my brother took them. Read on to get the free project (I made a tote from a jumbo size Virgin of Guadalupe scarf!).

Lark Books recently featured my prject in their blog, The Crafty Reader:

If you’re like me, you’ve impulse-purchased a scarf before. Driven strictly by desire to possess that particular accessory at that moment. Then you get home and after rummaging through your closet you discover that you don’t have a thing that goes with it. But you still love it because it’s awesome, which is why you snapped it up to begin with, and figure you’ll find the perfect something to go with it down the road. Well if that scarf is still languishing in a drawer then it’s high time for high fashion.

Crafty Kathy Cano-Murillo of Crafty Chica fame will show you how to transform that scarf into a handy tote. And like shoes, you can never have too many totes. Get the instructions here.

This fun project is just one of 20 showcased in the newly released Signature Styles. Take a behind-the-scenes tour with 20 of the hottest movers and shakers in the crafting industry as they talk about their homes and studios, signature techniques, and their own unique style. Featured artists are Heather Bailey, Serena Thompson, Meg McElwee, Elsie Flannigan, Rashida Coleman-Hale, Kathy Cano-Murillo, Betz White, Meg Allan Cole, Bari J. Ackerman, Erika & Monika Simmons, Kayte Terry, Megan Hunt, Sonya Nimri, Megan Nicolay, Ruth Singer, Sandy Stone, Bonzie & Ger, Teva Durham, and Amy Tangerine.

Felicidades,
Kathy :-)

In need of book reviewers!

2011-05-12T01:13:00.000-07:00

These are books on my "to read" list, however, I would love to have reviews of them posted on this site.

My question: Have any of you read any of these books, and if so, would you like to contribute a review to this blog? Send me a note here.

Felicidades,
Kathy :-)

CRAFTY LIT: Handpainted bookmarks that match...BOOKS!

2011-05-11T23:03:00.000-07:00

Visit the Fifi Flowers store on Etsy!

I came across this site tonight and love it! This artist shares her love for books not only through her review site, ReadingIsFashionable.com, but also through her artwork at FifiFlowers.com. With the magical flick of her wrist (with a bit of help from watercolors and a brush), she whips out hand painted bookmarks to match the titles she reads. Even better, she sells them at her Etsy store. Her theme is Paris, which makes her work even more intriguing!

Felicidades,
Kathy :-)

Less crafting. More writing!

2011-05-09T22:48:00.000-07:00

I've blogged over at Diary of a Crafty Chica since 2003 and I still plan to keep it going strong - however, I've recently come to a very important decision.

Writing comes first.

At least when it comes to my free time. I've always dreamed of having a long term career as a novelist, and now that, by the grace of God, I've had two fiction books published, I have to work hard to keep the momentum moving.

Here's a nugget of truth about being an author. It's difficult to write, edit and sell your first book, but it is double hard to keep it going. New hurdles are established and you have to clear them to stay in the game. I write because I love to tell stories and deliver happy endings with messages that will make readers want to try something new. I'm making it my priority, I feel compelled to set everything else aside do go for it!

My mission for the next month: two novel outlines, two non-fiction book proposals! Yah!

More updates to come!

Felicidades,
Kathy :-)

Latino Book Month & Novel Writing Online Show/Chat

2011-05-09T09:22:00.000-07:00

Did you know May is Latino Book Month? It has been a lifelong dream of mine to have my crafty Latina-themed novels published and now I want to celebrate! The books are about women from diverse backgrounds who come together for the sake of art and friendship! I promise they will put you in a good mood!

Two ways to get involved:

1. Any time during the month of MAY, have a meet-up with your book group (or just a group of friends!) with one or both of my books as the topic and I'll send you a special gift pack for you and your guests. You can meet at a house, a library, a school or coffee shop - where ever you want!

Houston Book Club reads Waking Up in the Land of Glitter!

- handmade bookmarks for your guests

- Crafty Chica Iron-on transfer set for the hostess

- I'll phone in or Skype with your group to talk about the book, crafts, business tips, or whatever you want!

Contact me a.s.a.p. HERE to sign up!

Los Angeles readers too!

2. "10 Ways to Start Writing Your Book" online show/chat on Monday, May 30th, 7-8 pm PT. I've authored seven non-fiction books, and two novels and have a lot to share about motivation, outlining and more. I'll pull out my ten best tips and present them in the hour, as well as answer questions. I'll also offer prize giveaways too. Whether you want to write a craft book or a novel, I'll share inspirations for both!

Purchase my books here:

Amazon:

Miss Scarlet's School of Patternless Sewing

Waking Up in the Land of Glitter

B&N:

Miss Scarlet's School of Patternless Sewing

Waking Up in the Land of Glitter

Felicidades,
Kathy :-)

Write your own manifesto!

2011-03-23T00:00:00.000-07:00

My friend Alexa from SwellDesigner passed this poster from Holstee around recently and reading it gave me goosebumps! I know a lot of it seems easier said than done, but I believe if you focus on the GOOD things and making positive changes, it will help improve the overall situation.

I'm thinking of writing this out on a large canvas for my art studio! Hmm...or better yet...

Why don't we each write our own manifesto? According to Wikipedia, a manifesto is a public declaration of principles and intentions. It's as simple as a list of goals and guidelines to help you focus on your life's big picture destination.

Last week I attended a writing workshop at the Tucson Festival of Books and one of the speakers told us the importance of always having a destination in mind in everything we do. Every day we are moving forward, but where are we going, what are we looking forward to? It made so much sense to me. Life shouldn't be about getting through each day, it should be about living with adventure, capturing moments and memories as we make our way to the finish line, whatever that may be. A manifesto is a sort of a reminder to stay on your very own yellow brick road.

Try this exercise wherever you need it most. It can be for life in general, or for your career, parenting, blogging/web site, health plan, business - whatever you want!

Here are some ways to be creative with your manifesto:

- You can be serious or lighthearted. There are no rules!

- Buy a blank book and make an art journal. Each spread can be a collage that goes with the message.

- Make your own by-the-day calendar using Post-It Notes.

- Use a dry erase marker and write it on the mirror in your bathroom.

- Use puffy paint or letter stamps and write it on toss pillows on your bed, or around a lampshade - or a window shade!

- Grab a black marker and hand write it on a blank canvas (I'm going to do this one!)

- Blog, FB or tweet it, share it with your friends and family.

- Record a video and give it to your loved ones.

- Instead of writing it alone, create your manifesto with your spouse, kids, parents, best friends, etc, that way you can help eachother follow it!

If you were to write your own manifesto, what statements would you include? (Psstt...if you aren't into all the work, then just buy the poster!)

Felicidades,
Kathy :-)

Gift for an aspiring writer

2011-03-20T20:33:00.000-07:00

I wish I had one of these when I was working on my book! It's hilarious/inspiring poster from the creative writing team at http://www.826national.org. It goes through all the decisions you'll be making when it comes to creating your literary masterpiece. If you need something with a bigger kick, go with this.

Felicidades,
Kathy :-)

Tucson Festival of Books - a recap

2011-03-20T00:00:00.000-07:00

LINK

My mother-in-law, nephew and daughter joined on a trip to Tucson last weekend for the Tucson Festival of Books! It was such a spirited event, and I felt so honored to be there as a speaker and panelist. I went on behalf of Nuestras Raices which is a program of the Pima County Public Library. The crowd attendance was well over 100,000, and everyone was hungry for reading as well as writing. In between my sessions I was able to sit in on some workshops and came home motivated to jump back to work on my next novel!

Felicidades,
Kathy :-)

Teaser Tuesday!

2011-03-09T20:56:00.000-08:00

I had never heard of "Teaser Tuesday" until it came across my Google Alerts for Miss Scarlet. Some of the book readers participated and pulled lines from my book.

This is how it works:

Grab your current read
Open to a random page
Share two (2) “teaser” sentences from somewhere on that page
BE CAREFUL NOT TO INCLUDE SPOILERS! (make sure that what you share doesn’t give too much away! You don’t want to ruin the book for others!)
Share the title & author, too, so that other TT participants can add the book to their TBR Lists if they like your teasers!

That being said, here are some of the TT from Miss Scarlet's School of Patternless Sewing:

From Along the Way: He chuckled as he watched her sort the rolls according to color. He couldn't believe that within the hour the room would be filled with women (voluntarily) bound in duct tape.
**
From Hey I Want To Read That: “I have a pattern for a life that I love. My goal is to preserve it to the best of my ability. I lived a venturesome life–lots of traveling, meeting all kinds of eccentric and beautiful people.”

Love these!

Felicidades,
Kathy :-)

Miss Scarlet Blog Tour

2011-03-09T20:41:00.000-08:00

This week more than 80 bloggers helped me share the news about my book! Click below to see what they had to say!

Mon March 7	http://www.livinglavidanormal.com
Mon March 7	http://www.goodreads.com/group/show/41282.2011_Colorful_Chick_Lit_C...
Mon March 7	http://www.MommiesPointofView.blogspot.com
Mon March 7	http://www.rundpinne.com
Mon March 7	www.rexrobotreviews.com
Mon March 7	http://sugarcreekcottage.blogspot.com/
Mon March 7	http://thebooktree.blogspot.com
Mon March 7	http://simplystacie.net
Mon March 7	http://threeboysandanoldlady.blogspot.com/
Mon March 7	http://bookinwithbingo.blogspot.com/
Mon March 7	http://starrbatt.blogspot.com/
Mon March 7	http://marygramlich.blogspot.com/ https://creativahoy.blogspot.com

Mon March 7	https://creativahoy.blogspot.com
Mon March 7	http://www.renees-reads.blogspot.com/
Mon March 7	http://ctmomreviews.blogspot.com/
Mon March 7	http://justanothernewblog.blogspot.com
Mon March 7	http://jodiwebb.com
Mon March 7	http://booksandneedlepoint.blogspot.com/
Tues March 8	www.melodynunez.com
Tues March 8	www.margotpotter.com
Tues March 8	www.crescendoh.com
Tues March 8	http://sweatersurgery.blogspot.com/
Tues March 8	http://www.MyFourMonkeys.com
Tues March 8	http://luanne-abookwormsworld.blogspot.com/
Tues March 8	http://brokenteepee.com
Tues March 8	http://www.michellemach.com/blog/
Tues March 8	http://ourwhiskeylullaby.blogspot.com/
Tues March 8	http://www.conestogo.blogspot.com
Tues March 8	http://cmashlovestoread.blogspot.com
Tues March 8	http://cuzinlogic.wordpress.com
Tues March 8	http://creativeclown.com
Tues March 8	http://livinlavidalatina.blogspot.com
Tues March 8	http://www.thereviewbroads.com
Wed March 9	http://www.goodreads.com/group/show/41282.2011_Colorful_Chick_Lit_C...
Wed March 9	http://andreasternart.blogspot.com
Wed March 9	http://aseaofbooks.blogspot.com/
Wed March 9http://a-long-the-way.blogspot.com
Wed March 9	http://onebookshy.blogspot.com
Wed March 9	http://amusingreviews.blogspot.com
Wed March 9	http://sharonsgardenofbookreviews.blogspot.com
Wed March 9	http://alteredbelly.blogspot.com/
Wed March 9	http://bookjourney.wordpress.com/
Wed March 9	www.skiptomylou.org
Wed March 9	www.liveteachcreate.com
Wed March 9	http://www.bkfaerie.blogspot.com
Wed March 9	www.lisalizalou.blogspot.com
Thurs March 10	www.thecraftaholic.com/
Thurs March 10	www.latinabookclub.com
Thurs March 10
Thurs March 10	http://jo-jolovestoread.blogspot.com/
Thurs March 10	http://marthalama.wordpress.com/
Thurs March 10	http://fredasvoice.blogspot.com
Thurs March 10	http://acozyreaderscorner.blogspot.com
Thurs March 10	www.tatertotsandjello.blogspot.com
Fri March 11	www.craftypod.com
Fri March 11
Fri March 11	http://www.startingfreshnyc.com
Fri March 11	http://www.kballard87.blogspot.com
Fri March 11	http://detweilermom.blogspot.com
Fri March 11
Fri March 11	http://www.masoncanyon.blogspot.com
Fri March 11	http://aurelmedia.wordpress.com
Fri March 11	http://teddyrose.blogspot.com/
Fri March 11	www.tarmyblogspot.blogspot.com
Fri March 11	www.xicoarteycultura.wordpress.com
Fri March 11	www.theiemommy.com
Fri March 11	humboldtcherry.blogspot.com
Fri March 11
Fri March 11	http://skirt.com/shoegirl1970/blog/waking-land-glitter
Fri March 11	http://mindingspot.blogspot.com
Fri March 11	http://marthalama.wordpress.com/
Fri March 11	http://thebookjunkiesbookshelf.blogspot.com
Fri March 11	http://myreadingroom-crystal.blogspot.com
Fri March 11	www.joeyelissasophia.blogspot.com
Fri March 11	http://whipup.net
Fri March 11	http://www.goodreads.com/group/show/41282.2011_Colorful_Chick_Lit_C...
	Indie Craft Experience
	www.treicdesigns.com

Fri March 11 www.trashionista.com KathyMurilloTourParticipants.docx

Felicidades,
Kathy :-)

Snapshots from a book signing

2011-03-09T20:38:00.000-08:00

The promotional display they set up in the store all week.

It's the best feeling in the UNIVERSE to work so hard on a big project and see it come to fruition! Here are some pictures from my first signing for Miss Scarlet. This was at Changing Hands bookstore in Tempe, AZ. I had a great crowd, the time flew by too fast!

These are the swag gifts I made. They are lint brushes to go with the theme of Miss Scarlet being a dressmaker. I embellished them with buttons and sparkly gems!

Here is one half of the crowd, this was right before I started my reading. It's always scary to have your first signing and figuring out what portion to read from the book. I went with something light and funny, but that set the tone of the plot.

Here is the other half of the crowd. The staff had to go get more chairs and hurry to set them up! Yay! People came! The gorgeous dame in the red blouse is my dear friend Camille Kimball, she was in my writing group from 2004! She went on to author books too!

Here I am with one of my writing idols - Stella Pope Duarte. At first, when I saw her at the bookstore, I thought she was there to shop. But no - she was there for me! "I'm here to support you, Kathy, I'm very proud of you!" Tears sprang to my eyes. I was upset because none of my family was able to make it to my big event (They had good excuses). So to hear Stella tell me those words made me very happy.

Felicidades,
Kathy :-)

New book trailer for Miss Scarlet's School of Patternless Sewing!

2011-03-07T21:36:00.001-08:00

LINK
Hope you like it!
Felicidades,
Kathy :-)

Crafty Chica Book Launch Sweepstakes for MISS SCARLET!

2011-03-07T01:00:00.000-08:00

Miss Scarlet's School of Patternless Sewing: A Crafty Chica Novel is here and on sale everywhere! I hope you'll find it in your heart to buy a copy for you or a friend!

Miss Scarlet at Amazon.com
Miss Scarlet at Barnes & Noble.com

To celebrate the launch (and to help promote and sell my book), I put together a faboosh sweepstakes event with fabulous prizes! All the details are below, but I'll explain it here too:

There are FIVE ways you can enter!
1. “Like” facebook.com/kathycanomurillo from your personal profile. If you have already "liked" my page, you can do an extra tweet.
2. Tweet this blog post and its title, use hashtag #MissScarlet and #craftychica
3. Sign up for the monthly newsletter at CraftyChica.com.
4. Leave a Miss Scarlet book review on Amazon, B&N or Goodreads.com.
5. Follow my blog with Google Connect.
TO ENTER: I have a contest coordinator who is recording all the entries. Please e-mail your name, email and your list of entries to CRAFTYCHICA[AT]GMAIL[DOT]COM by March 13th, 11:59 pm, PT.

~*You don't have to purchase a book to enter, but it will sure help your overall karma!*~

And please take a moment to visit our sponsors' sites!

SINGER® SEWING CO.

Arrow Sewing Cabinets

Jo-Ann Fabric and Craft Stores

iLoveToCreate

Fiskars

Felicidades,
Kathy :-)

Miss Scarlet's Blog tour begins today!

2011-03-07T00:14:00.000-08:00

The blog tour begins today! Here is the first batch of reviews and interviews. Don't forget to order the book! Ok, let's go check out these blogs!

http://www.livinglavidanormal.com
http://www.Cool2Craft.com
http://jodiwebb.com
Chick Lit of Color Challenge
http://www.mommiespointofview.blogspot.com/
http://www.rundpinne.com
www.rexrobotreviews.com
http://sugarcreekcottage.blogspot.com/
http://thebooktree.blogspot.com
http://simplystacie.net
http://threeboysandanoldlady.blogspot.com/
http://bookinwithbingo.blogspot.com/

http://starrbatt.blogspot.com/
https://creativahoy.blogspot.com
http://www.renees-reads.blogspot.com/
http://ctmomreviews.blogspot.com/
http://booksandneedlepoint.blogspot.com/
http://justanothernewblog.blogspot.com
Felicidades,
Kathy :-)

Craft book round up - here are some must haves!

2011-02-24T23:01:00.000-08:00

Feeling like you need a shove into the art room? These four books will do the trick. They came across my desk and were so flashy, I gasped for air in delight! Read on, my friends!

Pulp Fiction (Design Originals, $16.99, paperback) The first one is by one of my all-time crafting heroes, Mark Montano. He knows how to work the scissors in ways we've never heard or thought of. This book is all about using and reusing your paper. From bracelets to books to bed tables, Mark shares some of his most clever ideas yet. One of my favorite projects are the blank journals that he covered with - stamped book pages! If you love color and pop culture, you'll totally dig this one.

One of my guilty pleasures is watching three-hour Bollywood movies. Imagine my excitement when my son confessed to me that he loves them too! Now we have Friday night mom and son movie nights! How does this relate to books? Well, every time I watch the movies, I drool at the decor and think about making it. Thankfully there is Bollywood Crafts: 20 Projects Inspired by Popular Indian Cinema (Guild of Master Craftsman, $14.95).This book is amazing. Author Momtaz Begum-Hossain knows her Bollywood flicks. Each project comes with a movie, the synopsis and a collection of projects to make - right down to the very last sequin. It's beautiful, shiny, happy, and educational. Whatever you do - make sure to visit her site! http://www.momtazbh.co.uk/

OK, this next book is for the teen rock star in your family. My daughter is 17 and plays the piano, guitar and viola. She makes her own music videos and writes her own lyrics. I imagine she'll start a band someday. My friend Megan over at Workman Publishing noticed and sent The Girls' Guide to Rocking: How to Start a Band, Book Gigs, and Get Rolling to Rock Stardom (by Jessica Hopper, $13.95, paperback). Joan Jett approved, it comes with dozens and dozens of how-to - from picking the right instrument to recording to making stage couture - and everything in between. In the center of the book is a pull-out of a women in rock music timeline to keep your dive-in-training motivated. Jessica's web site.

Have you ever considered making stamps out of rubber bands, cords, buttons and even the toe spacer foam you use in a pedicure? In Print and Stamp Lab: 52 Ideas for Handmade, Upcycled Print Tools (by Traci Bunkers, Quarry Publishing, $22.99, paperback) - you'll find just that and more. If you are into mixed media collage art, you'll appreciate the wealth of ideas that Traci shares. We've all used a brayer, but have you ever considered carving a design in it? I know that as soon as I'm done writing this, that's what I plan to go do in my studio! Here is another gem - you know the foam alphabet stamps? Traci shows how to cover those with textured rubber, so you don't only get a letter stamp, but you get one with mucho personality. Traci's web site.

Felicidades,
Kathy :-)

INSPIRATION FRIDAY: Author Sandra Lopez

2011-02-24T22:16:00.000-08:00

Today's guest is an author with amazing spirit and spunk! She wrote and published her first novel while in college and is working on her third. In addition, she runs a book blog where she shares reviews of all the pageturners that capture her attention. This is a great article to share with the young, aspiring writers in your family because Sandra is proof that it's never too early to manifest one's dreams. Way to go, Sandra! Her essay is below...

Coming back a celebrity

By Sandra Lopez

For those of you who have heard me speak at a book signing or an author panel, then you know the story of how I got into the writing gig. But for those of you who are just joining us, I’ll tell it again.

I started writing my first teen fiction novel, Esperanza, when I entered my first year of junior college, fresh out of high school. The book was about a 14-year old Mexican-American girl who wanted to get out of the barrio and make something of her life. I wrote this story without the help of a computer while taking a full load of classes five days a week. When I finally finished it, I stacked it on the shelf so it could collect dust forever. I had absolutely NO intention of having it published as being an author was something I thought I could never do when I was growing up. But, one day, I decided to pitch it to some publishing houses out there. Out of 40 letters I sent out, 35 came back rejected and the rest didn’t come back at all. I was about to give up on the whole thing when I got a call from the editor of Floricanto Press asking to see the rest of my manuscript. Four months later, I received a contract. Then two years after that, I was holding my first published book. And all this happened WHILE I was still in college!

Since then, I have written a sequel to my first book called Beyond the Gardens, and graduated with a Bachelors degree from Cal State Fullerton. To this day, I spend my free time visiting colleges and local libraries talking about my books and the writing process.

A common misconception most people have about authors is that they are rich. That’s so not true. I don’t have a butler or a chauffeur or diamond earrings or a mansion made out of gold. Would I like to have all that? Hell yeah! Yes, I would like to be on the best-seller’s list. Yes, I would like my books to be transformed into movies. And, yes, I would like to make all that money from just sitting on my butt and writing! But, alas, like most other writers, I do have a day job. I just do events whenever I can.

Now, I don’t think much has changed since I got into the writing business. I mean, it’s not like I get stopped on the street whenever a fan recognizes me. I’m still living a normal, everyday life. The only difference is that I get asked for autographs more often. Let me tell you, it’s way different than when you had to sign yearbooks in school. And I feel honored every time.

But does this make me a “celebrity?” Well, a few people do, especially the kids. I actually came back a “celebrity” when I went to go visit my old school district.

Sometime ago, I got an email from a lady that works for the district. She was ecstatic to learn from the Internet that I was from the local area and now an AUTHOR. She called me a great role model for young kids and absolutely insisted that I meet up with her to discuss a possibility of talking to the classrooms of the district. So that's what I did.

I met up with Ann (that's her name, BTW), who hit the floor at the first sight of me (maybe I should've brushed my hair or something, or it might have something to do with the fact that I'm some sort of celebrity now.) Anyway, after she breathed a few times, I proceeded to talk about how I got started in writing and what, if anything, led me to take on this goal when I was in school. For a second, I thought Ann was going to have a stroke. Apparently, she couldn't contain herself because before I could even say anything else, she rushed to the phone to ask if the superintendent could spare a few moments to meet me at that point. Then ten minutes later, we met up with the superintendent, who I relayed my life story and writing career to. Both of them were so amazed by my accomplishment that they purchased 8 copies of my books right on the spot. Even the secretary was in awe. And when I told him that I was the designer of my website, they were that much more impressed.

By the end of the meeting, they referred me as "a product of their school system." It actually made me wonder: Did I have anything to do this, or was it all them?

In any sense, it was good to go back and recall all those memories in school. I even met up with my old Vice Principal in Jr. High. Of course, he didn't remember me, but I remembered him (vaguely). See, I'm not that old.

It's going to be great to speak to the students next year. I will tell all of them that it IS possible to make something of yourself and come back a celebrity.

Sandra's Bio: Born and raised in Hawaiian Gardens, CA, Sandra C. López is one of today's influential Latina authors in Young Adult literature. Her first novel, Esperanza: A Latina Story, was published in March 2008 WHILE she was still in college. Shortly after that, she wrote the follow up to Esperanza called Beyond the Gardens, published in October 2009. Now, this young writer is a full graduate of Cal State University Fullerton with a BFA in the arts. She was named as one of "2011 Top Ten New Latino Authors to Watch" by Latino Stories. See Sandra at the Tucson Festival of Books.

Visit her website - www.sandra-lopez.com

Felicidades,
Kathy :-)

BOOK MARKETING: Prototype SWAG for my book release!

2011-02-09T19:27:00.000-08:00

After spending years as a newspaper entertainment reporter, I learned that SWAG (sealed with a gift) is a must-have in promotions and marketing. You take a basic item that is themed around your event, and personalize it. You have to make it fun enough so the person you are giving it to will remember your event.

This works great for book releases!

My Miss Scarlet novel comes out in one month and I knew I had to get hopping! I went to the dollar store and bought mini-sewing kits and small lint rollers, but then thought about my character of Scarlet Santana. She is a DIY fashionista who is always prepared for the unexpected. A sewing kit is a given, expected. But what about lint? Lint on a couture gown is like fly in peanut butter, and that just can't happen in her world. She isn't the type to carry around a clunky mini-lint roller when there are POCKET LINT PADS on the market! I found these at the dollar store, three-to a package. Perfect! I imagine Scarlet would carry one in her bra, ready to zap any rogue threads, fluff or dog hairs!

I used Photoshop Elements to create covers and affixed them with a glue stick. Voila! My printer was running out of ink, so I'll end up laying these out as a grid on a sheet, copying to a CD and taking it to Kinko's to print out on glossy paper. I want them to look professional. I plan to add the book's synopsis and my web site to the back cover.

When they are finished, I can pass these out as gifts to press, or VIPs or the first group of people who buy my books!

You can also make bookmarks, keychains or magnets too!

Felicidades,
Kathy :-)

Chicken Soup for the Soul: Call for submissions (Happiness theme)!

2011-02-08T16:01:00.000-08:00

A few years back I had an essay selected for the Chicken Soup series. It was a piece I wrote about my dad's tamale making adventures. I'm so glad I submitted the story for consideration and was so excited when it was chosen. I still talk to people who read and enjoyed it.

Here is a new call out that I came across today and wanted to share. I encourage all of you to write and submit, you'll be glad you did! It is such a great topic!

Chicken Soup for the Soul: Find Your Happiness
101 Stories about Finding Your Purpose, Passion, and Joy

Everyone wants to be happy but sometimes we need a little help finding our own path to happiness. What has worked for you? How have you found happiness in your life? Share your non-fiction stories about how you found purpose, passion, and/or joy in your life. Stories can be serious or funny, but definitely inspirational. Attitude adjustments, finding contentment and gratitude, a new way of handling your daily life, major realizations, and other great ideas to inspire readers to find their own paths to happiness would be appropriate.

Here are some possible story topics, just to get your creative juices flowing:

Finding new purpose in paid or volunteer work
Adjusting your attitude and seeing an aspect of your life in a new way
Learning to be grateful
Following your passion, whether for work, a creative project, or some other activity
Experiencing contentment with things just the way they are
Changing the way you view your daily life
Having an epiphany about your life
Overcoming hardships
Making someone else happy
Any story that you experienced that you think will help other people find their own path to happiness

If your story is chosen, you will be a published author and your bio will be printed in the book if you so choose. You will also receive a check for $200 and 10 free copies of your book, worth more than $100. You will retain the copyright for your story and you will retain the right to resell it.

Please remember, we do not like "as told to" stories. Please write in the first person about yourself or someone close to you. Do not ghost write a story for someone else. If a story was previously published, we will probably not use it unless it ran in a small circulation venue. Let us know where the story was previously published in the "Comments" section of the submission form.

SUBMISSIONS GO TO http://chickensoup.com
Select the Submit Your Story link on the left tool bar and follow the directions.

The deadline date for story submissions is May 15, 2011. Publication date is October 2011.

Felicidades,
Kathy :-)

SQUEAL! Look what was just delivered on my doorstep: My new novel!

2011-02-07T09:42:00.001-08:00

The final copies arrived to my editor last week and she sent me two copies hot off the press! My heart is racing, I can't believe it is already coming out. Tears of joy streaming down my face as I type this.

I dedicated this book to my dad. He was so excited about my novels, and often asked about my plot structures and characters. "You always have to have something unexpected." he would tell me. He passed away before he was able to read them, but maybe there are libraries in heaven?

While the obvious theme of the story is sewing, the foundation is about family, siblings, daughters and parents. It's also about appreciating our loved ones before it is too late. Even though there are rough patches and misunderstandings within our family structures - unconditional love ALWAYS prevails. Family is everlasting! That is the message I hope readers take from the story.

Miss Scarlet comes out in one month! You can preorder here!

Felicidades,
Kathy :-)

Would you like to join my book blog tour?

2011-02-04T18:20:00.000-08:00

My new novel, MISS SCARLET'S SCHOOL OF PATTERNLESS SEWING comes out March 8th and my publisher is looking for bloggers to join the cyber tour!

Here is the link if you are interested!

Felicidades,
Kathy :-)

A Book to Consider: The Particular Sadness of Lemon Cake

2011-01-17T23:35:00.000-08:00

The Particular Sadness of Lemon Cake by Aimee Bender

My rating: 4 of 5 stars

The title and cover both caught my attention right away thanks to that delicious hunk of lemon cake and the shadow of the couple kissing! Halfway through the book, I inspected the cover again and realized it was a lonely girl and not two lovebirds. Now that I finished the story, I really do believe it is a couple kissing - perhaps what could have been if not for the cake - which makes the title even more heart wrenching.

Rose discovers on her ninth birthday that she can taste the mood of the person who made her meal. This ranges from a rushed cookie baker to a complacent lunch lady to processed food factory workers. Sadly, most of what passes the child’s lips comes from her mother who is secretly depressed and misunderstood by her workaholic husband. For the most part, poor Rose can’t seem to find any peace-laden calories and spends most of her childhood, teen years and early adulthood eating as a chore rather than a pleasure.

There really isn’t a plot, which is fine, but at times the middle of the book felt stretched – kind of like when you only have one can of frosting and have a huge cake to cover. That isn’t due to lack of potential material though. I wish there had been more about how Rose’s condition came to be. More experimentation. We learn late in the book that it’s a family trait that isn’t limited to her alone.

Even though I had a few issues, I'm giving this book four stars because of the imaginative and beautiful writing. In terms of cakes, this one is crafted from scratch with quality ingredients, detail, affection and dedication. Gourmet all the way. This author has a gift and that is what kept this reader enchanted. I loved the creativeness of Rose’s artist mom, and the way Rose’s prideful dad finally broke down and connected with his daughter.

This book kind of reminded me of a Sofia Coppola movie – heavy, soft, aimless, dreamy, odd, meaningful.

The down side? Well, the optimist in me craved a drizzle of sweetness. I felt sad, almost depressed while reading Lemon Cake. I held on, expecting some sort of shake up or life changing moment, but it never arrived in the grand manner I hoped for. What did was a surreal head-scratching-what-the-heck-just-happened-twist regarding Rose's mysterious brother, followed by a very quiet ending.

View all my reviews

Felicidades,
Kathy :-)

Three ways to warm up your writing skills.

2011-01-07T00:00:00.000-08:00

Every week I receive an email from someone asking how to get started writing a book. Many people have an amazing story from their family or life that they want to turn into a novel. They know they can do it, they know they have a good idea, but when it comes to sitting down and typing it all out - they set it aside. Next thing you know a year has passed and no progress has been made.

Writing and crafting 90,000 words into a breathtaking story is difficult, even for experienced authors. It all comes down to self-discipline, practice and exercising your creative muscles. Imagine if you wanted to be a painter. You can't expect to just sit down, grab a blank canvas, paint something and expect it to garner a million dollars. Or running in a marathon - you don't just sign in and show up. You have to clock in some hours of sweat.

Writing a novel is the same way.

By no means am I a literary expert, I'm still in the learning and growing stages too. But I am an expert at starting and finishing a project that is important to me. I devoted many hours to prepping before I wrote the first page of my book. It builds confidence, lets you see your weak spots so you can refine them, and puts you in the mood to continue on to the bigger goal.

Here are three of my favorite 'warm up' exercises that I still do to this day. If you have any other ideas, please leave them in the comments! The more the better!

1. Write reviews. Are you into books and movies? Write up some reviews. Post them to your FB site, on amazon, or just for your own records. Push yourself to scratch away the surface and force yourself to get to the meat of why you loved or hated that book or movie. Be descriptive and specific.

2. Observe and eavesdrop. Tune in to other people's conversations. It's not only about the words they say, but the emotion they put into it. This is a great way to get ideas for a character's background or motivation.

One time at the airport while I waited to board my plane, I overheard two strangers talking about kids. The woman stated that she was a middle child and always felt like the odd one in the family, so she tended to favor her middle child most. The man agreed about the middle child syndrome. He explained that he often ignored his middle teenage daughter because the older daughter needed help with college and the younger daughter was the baby of the family. He said he also avoided the middle daughter because she was always fighting with the strict mom. He said he felt really guilty for not standing up for the girl even when he knew she was right, because he didn't want to get involved. Next came an uncomfortable pause, as if he realized all of us sitting around him heard his confession. He wrapped up the chat by saying he was going to start sticking up for the daughter when he got home. Right then the attendant announced it was time to board the plane. Talk about awkward!

There was so much going on there, I'll never forget that experience, it stuck with me. It made me think of his scenario at home. That conversation with a stranger could have triggered a whole new set of circumstances for his marriage and his relationship with his daughter. I was so compelled, I wrote my version of what happened when he got home. It had a happy ending!

Another spin off of this is to collect interesting or profound quotes that you hear. Not from famous people, but from everyday folks. Then when you are developing your characters, you can look at all of them and see if any of them will fit.

The other day I asked my sister, "What are you doing?" She replied, "I'm rubbing the hairs on my eyebrows." I asked, "Why?" She said, "Because it feels good."

Is that awesomeness or what? That gives me a picture of her being really stressed out or really bored. Can you imagine someone rubbing the hair on their eyebrows every time they are in a weird predicament, or every time they lie, etc? Maybe it is the only way they can decompress. Stuff like that is golden!

3. Write a scene from your day. Do you ever have daily adventures that feel like they could be a scene in a sitcom? If you have something funny or out of the ordinary happen to you, go home and write about it as if it were an actual scene from a sitcom.

Here's an example of one I wrote about the time my family caught me eating Valentine chocolates out of the trash...

Not only is this a good way to practice writing, but it a great way to document family memories. You can read them at family gatherings or even print them out and make book or calendar as a gift.

Well, those are my three tips to help you warm up your writing skills. The more you do it, the better you'll get. Now go practice!

What do you do to warm up your writing skills? Please share!

Felicidades,
Kathy :-)

Good Reads Colorful Chick-Lit Challenge!

2011-01-06T00:43:00.000-08:00

Lisa from GoodReads.com is hosting a great reading event that will last all year long. The idea? For readers everywhere to read chick-lit books by women of color.

As a Bollywood dancing, reggae-loving, Mexican American reader and author - I totally dig this! I love contemporary women's fiction, and add some diversity in there and I love it even more! We live in a rich melting pot of cultures and traditions, and it's exciting to "live" in those worlds via smart, intriguing, comical, sincere characters. It's a way to see that we are all more alike than different!

Here are the details, per Lisa:

Good Reads Colorful Chick-Lit Challenge: This group's goal is to read chick lit that features women of color.

"I have to confess that before I started listening to audio books, I didn't think much of chick lit. However, I've thoroughly enjoyed listening to, and reading, it. So much so that I started wondering why there isn't more chick lit featuring women of color. Oh sure, occasionally authors will throw in a sidekick with a tinge of color, but mostly the stars of these adventures and their counterparts are lily white.

Then I thought, well maybe no one writes about women of color in this genre because they think there's not an audience for it. The response from readers when I review chick lit on my blog brings people out of the woodwork. So we're reading it and it doesn't necessarily have to be about us for us to enjoy it. That led me to research chick lit outside of the mainstream. And guess what? There's books aplenty! I've not read all of it yet, but I've found chick lit with Indian, Latina, Asian and African-American women. And they're not the sidekick. They're the star"

The challenge will run from January 1 - December 31, 2011.

Paper, e-books and audio books are all acceptable.

What qualifies as colorful chick lit
- Written by women of color about women of color
- Humorous, snarky or laugh out loud
- A tinge of romance, but not so much that it resembles a Harlequin
- A happy ending
- It's rom/com on paper!
Participants should try to read books from all four categories: Indian, Latina, Asian & African-American

Levels of participation
- Novice: 4 to 7 books
- Amateur: 8 to 11 books
- Queen of Chick Lit: 12 or more books

Lisa - you rock!

Felicidades,
Kathy :-)

A Book to Buy: The Sugar Queen

2011-01-06T00:26:00.000-08:00

The Sugar Queen by Sarah Addison Allen

My rating: 5 of 5 stars

Sarah Addison Allen is one of my all-time favorite authors and this book did not disappoint! It's about a girl, Josey, who escapes the stress of her miserable life by retreating to her bedroom closet to eat sweets and read romance novels. After learning about her circumstances, she's an easy girl to root for. But her fantasy-wrapped routine takes an uncomfortable turn when Della Lee, a creepy-yet-seemingly well-intentioned stranger, takes up secret residence in Josey's recessed haven. Why? We don't know until the very end of the story and it is well worth the wait.

Sometimes spooky, sometimes sweet, The Sugar Queen will seep under your skin and linger. It has elements of magic (books appear out of thin air!), but not so much to make it too dark, goofy or offsetting. The eerie Della Lee gave me goosebumps because I knew something funky was up with her. I also knew she was Josey's best ally. I loved that she motivated Josey to take the risk of leaving her comfort zone to seek a better life. To seek love and light.

This is a tale of friendship, love, truth, life, death, and self-empowerment.

By the end of The Sugar Queen, I had shed more than a few tears. I gobbled this one up, and not just because the plot involved candy!

View all my reviews

Felicidades,
Kathy :-)

A Book to Consider: The Icing on the Cupcake

2011-01-06T00:24:00.000-08:00

The Icing on the Cupcake by Jennifer Ross

My rating: 3 of 5 stars

Icing on the Cupcake is super sweet book, mostly because of the delicious recipes at the end of each chapter!

I liked the writing, very clean and clear, easy to follow. Sharp and snappy dialogue too! I loved that Ansley, our main character, decided to shake up her life after being dumped by her longtime love - even if the shake was a reluctant one. Ansley centered on what she knew best - baking cupcakes and made it work. Even though I didn't like her during the first half of the book, she slowly won me over.

The main issue I had with this story were the young women who schemed to sabotage one another, even to go so far as to commit a hit and run - all for a guy. I know the story has to be dramatic for entertainment value, but I would have loved to see a different angle. But I did like the unexpected friendship that formed at the end, as well as Ansley's relationship with her parents.

Overall, this is a happy book, it has its funny moments and - anything and everything surrounding the cupcakes are divine! There are also tips for baking moist cupcakes, etc, as shared by the character. I wish I could give it 3 and a half stars, I'll definitely read more books by this author!

View all my reviews

Felicidades,
Kathy :-)

A Book to Buy: Dancing With Butterflies

2011-01-06T00:22:00.000-08:00

Dancing with Butterflies: A Novel by Reyna Grande

My rating: 5 of 5 stars

I truly loved this book. What impressed me the most was that I never felt like there was an "author" - this story moved seamlessly along in a very natural way. It centers on women in a folklorico dance troupe, and we are exposed to the sometimes gut-wrenching personal missteps of each character. We learn that folklorico requires much discipline, passion and dedication and each character's commitment to the craft is put to the test, forcing them to fully embrace it or walk away.

It's an emotionally heavy read, many notes of heartache, but there are also kicks of comedy when you least expect them. A really great balance!

As an artist and crafter, it was no surprise that my favorite storyline was that of Soledad, the seamstress and costume designer for the group. She was the ultimate underdog in the book - underestimated, always overlooked an unappreciated. I had no idea how her story would end, and I was worried all the way through, but I was pleasantly surprised at the end. I remember reading the last page and letting out a smile big enough for my daughter to ask me from across the room, "What are you smiling at, Mom?"

The only teeny (and I mean micro) glitch I had with this book were the names of the characters. Many (not all) of the female names ended with "a" and the males with "o," sometimes I had to stop and think for a second. But that had zero impact on how much I loved this book! If you want an entree, something hearty, that will fill you up and make you feel completely satisfied at the end, this is it!

View all my reviews

Felicidades,
Kathy :-)

Update on my (hopefully) third novel

2010-12-14T20:49:00.000-08:00

My outline for my third novel was presented to my book editor, and while she liked it, she had some bigger and better ideas for it. What does that mean exactly? Back to the computer I go! I LOVE her vision, which does not only involve this specific book, but future titles as well. If I can swing this - and I know I can - it will (hopefully) mean many more books to come...

No pressure...gulp!

Here's where I'm at: This weekend I'm working on making new art collages, next week I'm in Fresno, which means alone time in my hotel room. Perfect. I know exactly how I want to restructure this book's plot. My editor's idea has certainly added much more FIRE to the story and I'm majorly giddy to 'go there'. My revised submission is not due until mid-January, so that gives me time to play around with the characters, re-outline, and write some sample chapters.

I went through the same process for the first two books and relish this stage. It's like a huge blank canvas for a multi-layered mixed media project and having to choose the theme, papers, colors. textures, etc. I don't think there is a way to 'get it right' with the first outline, well... unless you are a mega superstar author, and even then I'm sure the drawing board never becomes dusty.

Do you know with my Glitter book, the original outline was called The Chubby Chica Chronicles? It was about the misadventures of three plus-size women, only one a crafter. But then I researched and found that the big girl genre had been not only covered, but was much better than anything I could produce. In fact, that's how I found one of my all-time favorite books, The Way It Is by Patrick Sanchez. My point is that you can see how far my finished manuscript strayed from the first draft. Only one character survived and made it in Waking Up in the Land of Glitter, and that was Ofie Fuentes. She's a survivor!

This is proof that writing a book is not a clean cut deal at your first stab, or even second or third (or more) even if you have an awesome agent and fabulous book editor. There are always revisions galore, lots of brainstorming and daydreaming. If you REALLY want to write, you will push through and make it happen. That's my theory anyway.

This is kinda hokey but, what keeps me focused is visualizing my book on the front table of a book store! I replay that image over and over in my head and it makes writing each page more exciting, because I'm that much closer to making my dream a reality. It worked with Glitter, I hope it works with this book too!

Here is a cute video I found about common mistakes wannabe writers make when it comes to novel writing. I thought it would be a good time to share!

OK, I'm going back into my outline, wish me luck!

Felicidades,
Kathy :-)

A Book to Buy: Spooky Little Girl

2010-12-10T23:02:00.000-08:00

Description: Death is what happens while you’re busy making other plans.

Coming home from a Hawaiian vacation with her best girlfriends, Lucy Fisher is stunned to find everything she owns tossed out on her front lawn, the locks changed, and her fiancé’s phone disconnected—plus she’s just lost her job. With her world spinning wildly out of her control, Lucy decides to make a new start and moves upstate to live with her sister and nephew.
But then things take an even more dramatic turn: A fatal encounter with public transportation lands Lucy not in the hereafter but in the nearly hereafter. She’s back in school, learning the parameters of spooking and how to become a successful spirit in order to complete a ghostly assignment. If Lucy succeeds, she’s guaranteed a spot in the next level of the afterlife—but until then, she’s stuck as a ghost in the last place she would ever want to be.
Trying to avoid being trapped on earth for all eternity, Lucy crosses the line between life and death and back again when she returns home. Navigating the perilous channels of the paranormal, she’s determined to find out why her life crumbled and why, despite her ghastly death, no one seems to have noticed she’s gone. But urgency on the spectral plane—in the departed person of her feisty grandmother, who is risking both their eternal lives—requires attention, and Lucy realizes that you get only one chance to be spectacular in death.

Why I loved this book: Laurie has always had the magic touch when it comes to storytelling. This is her best effort yet. It is themed around death, the afterlife, ghosts and unfinished business. But this isn't your usual haunted story - it is presented "Laurie-style" - which means plenty of laughs and clever, unpredictable action. But what I loved the most is that it has so much heart in it. Anyone who has ever lost a loved parent, grandparent, sibling, friend, even a pet will feel comfort and lightness after reading Laurie's take on the afterlife. It's meaningful on many different levels. The message is universal and uplifting without being mushy or corny. Seriously, you'll want to buy a copy for each of your friends and family members. Thank you, Laurie, for another great book! Felicidades,
Kathy :-)

Currently reading...

2010-12-01T23:44:00.000-08:00

So far it's both funny and heartbreaking. Will post a review as soon as I have a chance!

Felicidades,
Kathy :-)

Currently reading...four books at the same time!

2010-11-25T23:43:00.000-08:00

Dancing With Butterflies by Reyna Grande: I'm reading the paperback version. It's about a folklorico dance group and all the drama that goes on behind the scenes. This also qualifies as crafty lit. It has a character who sews the costumes that the dancers wear, and Reyna goes into great detail about the regions of the dresses, the types of ribbon and fabric, and of course the passion that goes into each stitch. I find myself rushing through my duties during the day just so I can get back to reading. DWB is that good!

Getting to Happy by Terry McMillan: This is the sequel to Waiting to Exhale. I have this one going on my iPhone Kindle and I'm about half way through. I read this when I'm waiting in the car for the kids to get out of school, or when I'm waiting in line at the groceries, doctor's office, etc. I have to admit, I'm kind of crushed about this story so far. The last book ended so hopeful and positive and in this book all of that is blown to pieces. The characters I loved take a turn south. I'm not giving up hope, I'm hooked and actually look forward to those waiting times so I can keep reading!

The Particular Sadness of Lemon Cake by Aimee Bender: Audiobook. This is because every night I have to drive 30-40 minutes to pick up DeAngelo from his job (he's still working on getting his license). Many times it is late at night and I need something to keep me alert and focused. So far this book is doing just that. It's about a young girl who can taste people's emotions through the food they make. I'm curious to see how this goes!

Simple Times: Crafts for Poor People by Amy Sedaris: I can proudly say I consider Amy one of my crafty homegirls. Girl knows how to work a bottle of TG (Tacky Glue) like no one I've ever seen! AND she even included my tissue paper flowers in her book, included me in the back credits and sent me a signed copy. So, yah, I'm devoted like crazy and I soak up this one in the craft room when I'm waiting for paint or glue to dry, or in between projects. I also take it into the family room so I can read it in between TV commercials!

I hope to have all these books finished soon, because I have more books I want to read, like Alisa Valdes' Three Kings: A Christmas Dating Story. Another goal for this month is to have at least one family member read one of MY books. I kind of twisted my sister's arm to get her to promise to read Waking Up in the Land of Glitter by December 31, 2010. She swore she would, I'll keep you posted!

Felicidades,
Kathy :-)

Come see me at the Carnegie Lunchtime Speaker Series (Thursday)

2010-11-16T21:15:00.000-08:00

If you work in the downtown area, stop by this Thursday for my bookreading and discussion! They will have books for sale as well!

The Carnegie Lunchtime Speaker Series 2010

Bring your lunch and join us for a new speaker every month! The Carnegie Lunchtime Speaker series offers monthly lunchtime presentations on topics such as Arizona history, literature, culture, and current events. All presentations are from 12-1 PM, are free and open to the public, and are held at the Carnegie Center, 1101 W Washington, Phoenix, AZ 85007. Call 602-926-3369 or email for more information or to sign up to be on the mailing list.

Unless otherwise noted, these presentations are supported with funds granted by the Arizona State Library, Archives and Public Records Agency, a division of the Secretary of State, under the Library Services and Technology Act, which is administered by the Institute of Museum and Library Services.

Thursday, Nov 18: Kathy Cano-Murillo will discuss and sign Waking Up in the Land of Glitter.
With glue guns, glitter, twigs, or yarn, the ordinary can become extraordinary...especially at La Pachanga. Owned by Estrella "Star" Esteban's family, the restaurant has a rep for two things: good food and great art. One evening, Star jeopardizes her family's business, her relationship with her boyfriend, and her future career. To redeem herself, she agrees to participate in a national craft competition, teaming up with her best friend and a local celebrity. If these unlikely allies can set aside their differences, they'll find strength they never knew they had, and learn that friendship, like crafting, is truly an art form.

Felicidades,
Kathy :-)

Come see me today at The Hispanic Women's Conference!

2010-10-22T21:16:00.000-07:00

It's open to anyone and everyone who is interested in Latino culture, so come join us!

I'll be moderating and speaking as a panelist for:

Friday October 22nd, 2010

9:00 am - 10:15 am

E-Social Media Marketing
Social media has impacted the way organizations communicate with their customers. Understand the new high tech communication connecting business and people.

At 1:30 p.m., I'll have a book signing in the Las Comadres booth on the show expo floor. The expo portion of the conference is FREE!

THE 25th NATIONAL HISPANIC WOMEN’S CORPORATION INSTITUTESOctober 21st & 22nd, 2010 (Full 2 Day institutes)
Phoenix Convention Center –SOUTH PLAZA
33 South Third Street, Phoenix, AZ 85004
Questions? Call: 602-954-7995 • Toll Free: 888-388-4HWC • email: hwc@hispanicwomen.org
Felicidades,
Kathy :-)

PHX TONIGHT (Wednesday): Author Panel & Reading

2010-10-20T21:17:00.000-07:00

If you live in the Phoenix area and are interested in book publishing, come to this event tonight! We will be talking about the steps it takes to get your book published. FREE, open to everyone! Come join us! Click on the image for a closer view.
Felicidades,
Kathy :-)

Crossing fingers, lighting candles...

2010-10-20T20:48:00.000-07:00

My agent sent my outline and first two chapters to my book editor today. Now I sit, wait and cross my fingers that my editor likes it enough to buy it so it will be published! This part is painful, the waiting game!!

Felicidades,
Kathy :-)

Heading out to the Latino Book and Family Festival!

2010-10-04T21:19:00.000-07:00

(Click on image for a closer look)

This weekend is going to be memorable, I can already tell. I'm driving to Los Angeles with THE Stella Pop Duarte to the Latino Book and Family Festival on Saturday. If it's OK with her, I'm going to video blog our little road trip. Who knows what adventures we will find along the way to Cali?

Once we get to Los Angeles, I'm going to meet up with my friend Anette from CJ's Angels. i'll have some earrings for sale in her booth at this event in Pomona.

Later that night, I'm going to lead a late night mystery workshop for Dia de los Muertos.

Crafty Chica After Dark Mystery Workshop

Kathy Cano-Murillo, The Crafty Chica, is in Los Angeles at CJ's Angels for one night and is leading an exclusive three-hour NEW workshop themed around Dia de los Muertos.
Saturday ~ October 9th 7pm-10pm
$28.00 per person
...
The project is top secret, but it is soft, colorful, glittery and very meaningful.
In addition to the fabulous mystery project, we will be making up a special batch of prosperity glitter, as well as other happy surprises! Students are asked to bring: Name of a person who passed on who has inspired your life. Short inspirational quote that is meaningful to you about life. Small coin-sized mementos. Pencil and eraser. Reading eyeglasses, if needed (we will be using a needle and thread for part of the project.)

WORKSHOP POLICY: Pre-payment required. Walk in to pay or telephone with your credit card info. If you cancel once you've confirmed, you will be charged 50% of the amount of the class. No children. Call Annette (909) 957-6308 to reserve your spot! Location: CJ's Angels 2061 Wright Ave. Unit A-6 La Verne, CA 91750

The next day, Sunday, I'll be at the Latino Book and Family Festival at 5151 State University Drive (

calstatela.edu‎)Los Angeles, CA 90032-8580. I'm on two panels, one is at 3 pm about promoting your book, and the other is at 5 pm, about making our mark in the book world.

The event is free and is open to everyone and anyone who is interested in Latino fiction and non-fiction. You do not have to be Latino to attend the event, it's for EVERYONE! It's about celebrating culture, the more people the better! There are some wonderful workshops with established experts, so if you live in the area and are interested in the publishing industry, I highly suggest you check it out!

OK, get this...I arrive home to Phx at 10 p.m. on Sunday, and then I leave again the next morning at 8 for four days in Fresno. I come home Thursday night, and then very early Friday morning I have a photo shoot, and then I head over to an appearance at the Arizona State Fair. I'll be showing off the new Tulip Face Painting Kit in the Paramount Pictures booth to promote the movie Megamind! If you live in Phoenix, brings the kids and come get their faces painted!

Later that night I have an artists reception in Chandler. Saturday, I'm FREE. Sunday I'm demoing at another event. Monday and Tuesday, I'm in Dever to shoot a TV segment for PBS, and then Thursday and Friday I have the Hispanic Women's Conference. Five-day break (well, except for work during the day) and then all our fall festivals kick in every weekend through mid-November. I think I need to start drinking raw eggs like rocky in order to get in shape for all this.

I'm panting from anxiety right now. Wow, I just realized how crazy my schedule is now that I typed it all out! I need a piece of coffee-infused chocolate!

Felicidades,
Kathy :-)

Done!

2010-09-26T20:46:00.000-07:00

(This is a very rough pencil sketch of a chapter opener. I'm very big on visual manifestation! While I'm writing, I always draw little pictures that go with the story. It's not perfectly polished because I need to spend my time writing, not drawing. Overall, the exercise keeps me focused and excited to finish!)

It only took four months, maybe even longer, but tonight I sent over the first two chapters of my (hopefully) third novel, along with a 20K word outline.

It wasn't a matter of procrastinating, it was more about finding the right story to tell. And I've learned that if I put emphasis on a healthy outline, it makes the writing process go much faster. Granted, the final outcome will likely vary from the outline, but it feels good to have the major plot points worked out. An outline is like a pencil sketch.

People always ask me if the process is easier after writing two other novels. Yes and no. It's easier because I know what NOT to do. The hard part is coming up with new characters, new names, new jobs, new drama, etc. They have to be different from my previous characters. You have no idea how many awesome story arcs I drafted for this new book, only to step away and think - "Oh, that's Chloe." or "Eeee, that's Scarlet!" I had to go back in and recraft!

What happens now is that my agent will read all of it and then let me know of revisions, and then it goes to my editor. It's up to her to decide if she wants to buy it or if she will send me back to the drawing (sketch) board. It's the whole "hurry up and wait" game, but I'm used to it and mentally prepared. Besides, I have plenty of other work to keep my mind occupied.

I'm using this post to send a message out to the universe in honor of Desi, Edie, and Juliet. I have come to love them and hope their stories make their way to the printed page so you can read all about them!

Felicidades,
Kathy :-)

Signing at the Creative Connection Event

2010-09-18T21:02:00.000-07:00

This week I went to Minneapolis to sit on a panel for The Creative Connection Event. It was amazing and I sold a lot of books, so happy! I also had something totally amazing happen here. I can't reveal it just yet, but I will!

Booksigning event.

Here I am with Vickie Howell and Cathie Filian, we went into B&N, found our books and signed copies. The clerk added that cute little sticker to the front. Success!

Felicidades,
Kathy :-)

A Book to Buy: Crochet It. Love It. Wear It!

2010-09-14T23:42:00.000-07:00

Anyone who has read my recent novel, knows that I have a character named Ofie in there who not only crochets, but crochets fast. Well, that aspect of Ofie's life is inspired by ME! I love to crochet! I learned many years ago from a Jamaican woman at a reggae party. She taught me how to whip out crocheted tams and beanies. I used to crank one out a night and then sell them at Patrick's concerts! I only know the double stitch, but I sure work it at miracle speed.

I still crochet tams to this day - yes, during Patrick's concerts!

Because of this personal history with yarn, I've always had a soft spot for crochet. I once wrote a story for the newspaper about how crochet was the Jan Brady compared to knitting's Marcia. Knitting gets all the attention. I also interviewed Lily Chin when she won the International Speed Crochet competition!

Yup, I love me some crochet. In my opinion, we hot handed hookers are quirky as much as we are sassy.

If you agree, you'll love the spirit behind the new book, Crochet It. Love It. Wear It! by Drew Emborsky, The Crochet Dude.

There are thirteen projects that range from beginner to heavy duty expert. From skirts to scarves, there is something for everyone - even a type of crocheted corset.

Now here is my take on this book - I love all these offerings. They are tailored to show off a woman's best curves, the styles have movement, yet also structure, and come in gorgeous solid colors. Drew has a fun, conversational tone that makes you feel like he is right next to you, explaining his inspiration for the projects. This dude knows his stuff and is excited to share!

If you are like me and want to "chicafy" these looks, take each project as a wonderful foundation in which to build upon. Maybe a little weaved-in ribbon around the neckline, beads stitched in throughout, appliques here and there, etc.

Bottom line? No matter what your personality, there are oodles of opportunities with Drew's new page turner!

Felicidades,
Kathy :-)

A Book to Buy: Photo, Snap, Shot (A Kiki Lowenstein Scrap-N-Craft Mystery)

2010-08-12T01:06:00.000-07:00

Photo, Snap, Shot (A Kiki Lowenstein Scrap-N-Craft Mystery)
by Joanna Campbell-Slan

Slan takes "embellishment" to a whole new level! I am a hardcore crafter and instantly became interested in the Kiki Lowenstein Scrap-N-Craft Mysteries. Each book is themed around a scrapbooking storyline. Photo Snap Shot is funny, witty and will keep you turning those pages. Slan writes tight, making every word count to lead up to a memorable story. I would highly suggest any of her books for scrapbook clubs, they will make for lively conversation! I love that there are actually scrapbooking tips from Kiki throughout the book!

Felicidades,
Kathy :-)

Buckling down to finish an outline

2010-08-11T20:43:00.000-07:00

I've been stuck...on the plot points for my new novel's outline.

I know the beginning. I know the end. All that stuff in the middle? That's where I'm lost. First I didn't have enough of a story, and then I had too much. It's like one huge pile of tangled yarn right now.
Every chapter, action, character, paragraph, sentence - every word - must push the plot forward. I imagine this as a row of arrows pointing to the right. However, my current arrows are doing all kinds of curly cues, staircases, loop-de-loops, etc.

Today I buckled down and had a mini-breakthrough. Here is how I did it.

I read through the outline I had so far. While it was a cute story, it didn't have any spiky peaks or plunging lows. In other words - it had the crafts, it had the glitter, but it didn't have the DRAMA.
I jotted down a list of ideas for my main character for this specific roadblock. I then scratched off the first one because its likely the most predictable. I fused my second and third ideas together. Sure, there are some logistics to iron out and I have to weave this new development into what I already have, but at least the bulk of it is there.

I wish I had taken this kind of action sooner, I'd be that much further ahead. Here is my tip: Take action as soon as you notice you need some! Dwelling, over thinking, whining, none of those will solve your problem!

On a happier note - I read a small passage from my upcoming novel, Miss Scarlet's School of Patternless Sewing, at my book signing last week and the crowd loved it! They laughed and clapped when I finished. It was such great motivation to get going on my current work-in-progress!

OK, getting back to work now, wish me luck!

Felicidades,
Kathy :-)

Glendale, AZ Book Signing: SATURDAY, Aug. 7th

2010-08-06T21:21:00.000-07:00

Tomorrow (Saturday, August 7th) at 2 p.m., I have a book reading, signing and discussion about publishing at:

Glendale Public Library - Velma Teague Library (Branch)

7010 N. 58th Ave.
Glendale, AZ 85301
United States623-930-3438; Lholstineglendaleaz.com

Web site: http://www.glendaleaz.com/Library/locations.cfm#Velma_Teague_Location
Twitter account: @GlendaleLibrary
Description: The Velma Teague Branch is on the northwest corner of 58th Avenue and Glendale Avenue, immediately east of the Glendale City Hall.
I'll be reading from Waking Up in the Land of Glitter, as well as a mini-snippet from Miss Scarlet's School of Patternless Sewing (which takes place in downtown Glendale!).

Hope you can make it!

Felicidades,
Kathy :-)

Crafting, traveling and reading

2010-07-22T23:40:00.000-07:00

I've been busy prepping for my trip to Chicago for CHA, as well as STILL working on the outline for my (hopefully) next novel, so I haven't had a lot of time to post. But I did want to share some new art badges I made recently. These are currently on sale at Tres Rebecas Boutique in San Antonio!

The top one says "laugh every day," and yes, that is a chandelier piece on top of a ribbon of emerald glittered canvas.

This one says "my heart," and is resting on the book Confetti Girl, which I loved, by the way! It was authored by Diana Lopez and is a wonderful story for grade school or even high school girls.

It's a funny, fast read - and it has lots of craftiness in it! Lina loves collecting socks and not only wears them, but also makes things out of them like scarves and such. Her best friend's mom is super crafty and always has a project going on.

Apolonia "Lina" Flores is a sock enthusiast, a volleyball player, a science lover, and a girl who's just looking for answers. Even though her house is crammed full of books (her dad's a bibliophile), she's having trouble figuring out some very big questions, like why her dad seems to care about books more than her, why her best friend's divorced mom is obsessed with making cascarones (hollowed eggshells filled with colorful confetti), and, most of all, why her mom died last year. Like colors in a cascarone, Lina's life is a rainbow of people, interests, and unexpected changes.

Felicidades,
Kathy :-)

See you in San Antonio THIS WEEKEND!

2010-07-08T21:22:00.000-07:00

Patrick and I are making a special visit to San Antonio! Remember when I went last November and loved it? Well, I'm muy excited to be headed back!

FRIDAY, July 9th - noon-6 pm:

We are being hosted by the lovely Rebeca and Aida at Tres Rebecas (a Latino art boutique and book store). We'll have a trunk show, book signing, and reception. Patrick and I will have things we made for sale and there to chit chat all day long. (I'll have a little giveaway gift for you!)

SATURDAY AND SUNDAY, July 10 and 11th - 10:30 - noon:

We will be at the NCLR National Latino Family Conference at the Tres Rebecas booth (#733). Henry B. Gonzalez Convention Center 200 E. Market Street. I'll be selling/signing books. I'll have little Crafty Chica sacred heart temporary tattoos to give away too!
Purdy please, come see us!

Felicidades,
Kathy :-)

Thank you, Latina Magazine

2010-06-22T22:13:00.000-07:00

Every year, Latina Magazine releases their Top 10 Latina Beach Reads, and this year, my book made the list!

Here is the list!

Here are some other features from this week!

Modern Latina has an interview with me about juggling a creative life.

Crescendoh.com - Jenny Doh reviews "Waking Up in the Land of Glitter!"

Creating Keepsakes is doing a crafty lit book giveaway!

Virtue Radio Network featured the book for their monthly spotlight!

And in case you want a link to my book, here it is too! WAKING UP IN THE LAND OF GLITTER

Felicidades,
Kathy :-)

More fun events!

2010-05-24T20:40:00.000-07:00

Last was a busy week for reading! Not only did the New York Las Comadres group meet up, but so did the San Antonio group. They sent me a picture, which I LOVE!
The first picture is from my book signing from last Friday at Noche de Loteria. I sold a chunk of copies and these two lovely chicas stopped to pose with their new books!
TONIGHT is the Las Comadres teleconference - sign up HERE to join in!

Monday, May 24, 2010

at 8:00 pm Eastern and Puerto Rico
7:00 pm Central
6:00 pm Mountain
5:00 pm Pacific
2:00 pm Hawaii

Felicidades,
Kathy :-)

Giveaway week!

2010-05-24T20:39:00.000-07:00

In Waking Up in the Land of Glitter, when Star, Ofie and Chloe come together for their first craft group meeting, they have a discussion about art vs. craft. Star feels art consists of one-of-a-kind pieces that cannot be replicated and that have a message to relay. After noticing Ofie's kitschy crafts that are all about love and happiness, Chloe informs Star that according to her theory, Ofie's work qualifies as "art."

What is your personal take on art vs. craft? What separates the two?

TODAY'S PRIZE: A package of Crafty Chica® Mojito Papers™ , one Crafty Chica® Iron-On Applique™ , and a new copy of the DVD, Valentine's Day (donated by Warner Bros pictures).

*
RULES:

There are a total of SIX giveaway opportunities this week: five dailies, and one grand prize.

Daily: Leave your answer to today's question in the comment section to be entered. One entry per person. I'll post the day's winner in the next day's post.

Grand prize: On Friday at midnight, I'll collect ALL the comments and enter them for a GRAND PRIZE ($100 gift certificate) to the online bookseller of your choice. Winner will be announced on Monday.

Want to increase your chances?

Receive an extra entry for each of the following you complete (limit one each, total of five):
NOTE: If you have already completed any of the following and want to be entered, let me know and your entry will be included. Please email your completed links HERE.

- Post a video review about Waking Up in the Land of Glitter.
- Leave an online review on at least one bookseller site of Waking Up in the Land of Glitter.
- Blog about Waking Up in the Land of Glitter.
- Send in a photo of you holding a copy of Waking Up in the Land of Glitter.
- Send a tweet or leave a Facebook post about the Waking Up in the Land of Glitter.

NO PURCHASE NECESSARY TO ENTER. This contest closes Friday, May 28th, 2010, 11:59 p.m. This contest is open to U.S. residents only, entrants must be 18 years or older. Void where prohibited by law.

Felicidades,
Kathy :-)

Crafty book night

2010-05-21T20:38:00.000-07:00

The NYC chapter of Las Comadres book club met last night and they not only discussed my novel, they also had a crafty session too! They made these adorable bookmarks!
Felicidades,
Kathy :-)

What's next?

2010-05-15T20:36:00.000-07:00

Well, Miss Scarlet's School of Patternless Sewing is on its way to production. That was fast, don't you think?
Now it's time for me to think up novel #3 and start the process all over again.
I have the basic plot, main characters and the theme. Now I have to add the filler and string it all together into a comprehensive outline so my agent and editor can see my vision. I don't want to divulge all the details just yet, but I can say this book will be super-duper SWEET.
People have asked if the process is easier after writing two books. It is in that I know what not to do, it really saves a lot of time skipping the weedy detours. What is more difficult is creating new characters that stand apart from the previous ones. At first I struggled, but then I found a formula to make it easier. It's known as a character arc worksheet and it is very helpful! I plan to post about it soon - as soon as I figure it out myself. I kind of winged it with my first two books, but now that i have more time with this next book, I'm going to devote more creative brain power!

Felicidades,
Kathy :-)

Teleconference today

2010-05-13T20:34:00.000-07:00

May 18th is a special group interview and live chat to celebrate Latino Book Month!

When: Tuesday, May 18th, 2010 at 2:30 PM ET.
The number to call: (646) 378-0047 or click here to participate: www.blogtalkradio.com/hachettebookgroupfeatures.
Participating authors/editors include:

Grand Central Publishing editor, Selina McLemore

Luis Alberto Urrea, author of INTO THE BEAUTIFUL NORTH

Iris Gomez, author of TRY TO REMEMBER

Kathy Cano-Murillo, CraftyChica and author of WAKING UP IN THE LAND OF GLITTER

The event will be hosted by HBG Senior Web Publicist & Literanista Blogger, Valerie M. Russo
HEAD'S UP FOR NEXT WEEK:

Every day starting Monday, May 24 and ending May 28th, I'll have a different question pertaining to the novel, as well as Crafty Chica stuff. Prizes will be Crafty Chica products, items from the cruise, Sex and the City DVD and new movie soundtrack, Valentine's Day movie DVD, as well as a few $25 gift certificates to your favorite online book seller!

So start reading!

Contest week!
Felicidades,
Kathy :-)

A Book to Buy: Craft Corps

2010-05-04T01:08:00.000-07:00

Craft Corps: Celebrating the Creative Community One Story at a Time by Vickie Howell
Edition: Paperback

Craft Corps is a wonderful book to show what is happening in contemporary crafts - the lifestyle, the emotion, the design, the inspiration, all of it. I'm am truly honored to be one of the artists included. Each story is inspiring and though-provoking thanks to Vickie's keen interviewing skills. If you want a book to get you motivated to carve your own niche in the art and craft world, this is it. Each and every one of us are card-carrying members of Craft Corps!!! Thank you, Vickie, for such a cool book!

Felicidades,
Kathy :-)

Book signing today!

2010-05-01T08:50:00.000-07:00

I'll be at Pages Book store at noon today!

Valley resident Kathy Cano Murillo, nationally known as the Crafty Chica and lover of all things glitter, will be signing copies of her new book "Waking Up in the Land of Glitter - A Crafty Chica Novel".

RSVP's are suggested. To reserve a seat, a signed copy, or for more information, call Pages at 480-575-7220 or emailinfo@pagesnewandrare.com

Stop in and see our other Crafty Chica - and Crafty Diva - books before they're gone!

Where: 7100 E. Cave Creek Road in the StageCoach Village Center, Cave Creek.
When: Open 10 a.m.-6 p.m. daily.
Details: Call 480-575-7220

Read more: http://www.azcentral.com/news/articles/2008/08/25/20080825sr-pages0826.html#ixzz0mh48H6LP

Felicidades,
Kathy :-)

Two huge honors!

2010-04-29T20:31:00.000-07:00

1. My book was chosen as the MAY selection for the Las Comadres Book Club. There will be a teleconference on Monday night, May 24th where we'll all discuss the book and meaning of the characters' decisions, the plot, setting, all of that and more.

If you would like to join in, please sign up HERE (scroll down)

This is a big deal because this book club has hundreds and hundreds of members all across the country. I've been a member for years and always dreamed of the day that maybe, perhaps, my book would be one of the chosen few, lol...

Even if you don't read my book, still sign up for the book club because they have so many wonderful selections!

2. Every year the Association of American Publishers compiles a recommended reading list for Latino Book Month. Well, my chickadees -- Waking Up in the Land of Glitter was chosen for the list! CLICK HERE FOR LIST

I'm honored to have my name included with the likes of the following:

Dancing with Butterflies: A Novel
Reyna Grande, Washington Square Press (October 2009)

Dancing with Butterflies uses the alternating voices of four very different women whose lives interconnect through a common passion for their Mexican heritage and a dance company called Alegría. Yesenia, who founded Alegría with her husband, Eduardo, sabotages her own efforts to remain a vital, vibrant woman when she travels back and forth across the Mexican border for cheap plastic surgery. Elena, grief stricken by the death of her only child and the end of her marriage, finds herself falling dangerously in love with one of her underage students. Elena's sister, Adriana, wears the wounds of abandonment by a dysfunctional family and becomes unable to discern love from abuse. Soledad, the sweet-tempered illegal immigrant who designs costumes for Alegría, finds herself stuck back in Mexico, where she returns to see her dying grandmother. Award-winning novelist Reyna Grande has brought these fictional characters so convincingly to life that readers will imagine they know them.

The Madonnas of Echo Park: A Novel
Brando Skyhorse, Free Press (June 2010)

“We slipped into this country like thieves, onto the land that once was ours.” With these words, spoken by an illegal Mexican day laborer, The Madonnas of Echo Park takes us into the unseen world of Los Angeles, following the men and women who cook the meals, clean the homes, and struggle to lose their ethnic identity in the pursuit of the American dream. Like the Academy Award–winning film Crash, The Madonnas of Echo Park follows the intersections of its characters and cultures in Los Angeles. In the footsteps of Junot Díaz and Sherman Alexie, Brando Skyhorse in his debut novel gives voice to one neighborhood in Los Angeles with an astonishing— and unforgettable—lyrical power.

Try To Remember
Iris Gomez, Grand Central Publishing (May 5, 2010)
ISBN: 9780446556194
Languages Available: English (Bilingual reading group guide available)
Award-winning poet and expert in US immigration and asylum law Iris Gomez delivers a debut novel about a daughter's attempt to sustain her family as her father battles with mental illness.

There is also a non-fiction list that includes Daisy Martinez, and a children/young adult list that includes the wonderful Belinda Acosta of Damas, Drama and Ana Ruiz!

"Throughout the month of May, booksellers, librarians, and others in the book industry are encouraged to promote reading among Latinos in their communities, and to raise awareness of the rich variety of books authored by Latinos that are available, in both English and Spanish."

Felicidades,
Kathy :-)

Get your GLITTER yet?

2010-04-29T12:40:00.000-07:00

I had a nice catch up talk with my book editor yesterday and now have enough creative fuel for the rest of the summer! Whoa, spring isn't even over yet!

My manuscript for Miss Scarlet has been sent off to the copy editor. Funny thing, I had rewritten the first chapters last week and told my editor. Her reply? "No. It's done!"

At first my heart sank, but then I realized that every project has to come to an end at some point. If I could, I would rewrite certain parts of GLITTER, and so on and so on. I'm like that with my craft designs too, I keep adding and adding until Patrick comes over and say, "STOP! It's done!"

So now what do I that Miss Scarlet is being primped and prepped for her debut? Start on book three, that's what! My goal is to get writing by summer, so that means I need to forumlate the idea, devise the characters (their goals and weaknesses), write the outline, etc...
Even though Miss Scarlet stretched me beyond my limit, I'm ready for the next round. I know even more things of what not to do!
And for those of you who want to buy Waking Up in the Land of Glitter, but haven't yet - hurry!!! Here's why: The first edition has that beautiful embedded glitter on the cover, spine and back cover. Once the first batch is sold out (soon) the next printings won't have that feature. So consider them collector's items! Buy your copy today!
I'm still looking for promotional opps to help get the word out:
- If you have a blog, podcast, radio show, Twitter or Facebook etc, would you be interested in featuring it?
- If your local bookstore doesn't have it or is sold out, please ask for it.
- If you know of a cool indie craft boutique, ask the owner to carry it. You can email here for info: customer.service@hbgusa.com
- Mention the book to your friend, family, co-workers, or even something as easy as standing on top of your car and using a megaphone to shout out the news. This chica would so appreciate it!
Here is the link to a copy: Waking Up in the Land of Glitter!

Felicidades,
Kathy :-)

My next book cover

2010-04-20T20:29:00.000-07:00

The new catalog for Grand Central Publishing just came out and look what is on page 103?

My new book! Coming March 3, 2011.

Click on the images for a closer look!
Felicidades,
Kathy :-)

Photos from San Diego signing

2010-04-18T14:22:00.000-07:00

(Me at Latte Mi Corazon in San Diego!)

What a week! We came home Thursday evening and I haven't even unpacked yet. I'm not in any rush, piece by piece will be just fine. Okay, so I'll start at the beginning!

On the Friday before we boarded the ship, we left Phoenix with Patrick's mom, her cousin (she drove us), Maya, her friend Amy and in the other car was Patrick's mom's cousin, Dusty and her friend, Soila. They helped us transport the boxes.

Let's talk about boxes. We had 32 in all. 1/3 of them were sent directly to San Diego in the care of Ann and Alisa. The second chunk was delivered by my friend Michele who swooped by Phoenix on her way to CA. The third chunk was cargoed by Cecilia and Dusty. Not to mention that on Friday we had one more big box delivered in San Diego.

The drive to San Diego couldn't have been smoother. I love the trek. We always stop in El Centro, California because they have the best shop for car goodies.

Once we got into town and checked into our hotel for the night (I like to arrive a day early in case I need to buy something I forgot for the cruise), I got ready for my book signing at Latte Mi Corazon coffee shop. We had a nice crowd of about 40 people that night. I read from my novel and signed a bunch of books. We also made tile rings using Crafty Chica Mojito Papers! I'll have a photo tutorial soon.

They served me a yummy drink called the MexiMocha, which I downed and then wanted another!

I got to meet a bunch of great people, plus an online friend in the flesh - Tany Cordova of CurvyBettiesRock! She gave me the cutest coffin coin purse! I also met Elexia from Casa Artelexia, a new Mexican import shop in SD. We also had some cruisers show up to lend support, which I totally appreciated!!

More to come!
Felicidades,
Kathy :-)

San Diego reading and signing

2010-04-05T21:26:00.000-07:00

Latté Mi Corazón is a hip new Latin-themed coffeehouse in San Diego. They always have cool book signings and music events there, and I'm so proud to make a stop to read and sign copies of my book before I depart for the cruise the next day!

We'll also have some supplies on hand so you can make something super cute to take home!

Come say hi!
Felicidades,
Kathy :-)

Book edits done for Miss Scarlet!

2010-03-28T20:26:00.000-07:00

MISS SCARLET'S SCHOOL OF PATTERNLESS SEWING (March, 2011, Grand Central Publishing)
It took eight hours a day for four weeks, but tonight I wrapped it up. I love this book, I love the ending. Now I wait and see what my editor thinks. More rewrites may be coming. if so, it's okay because I know it will only make the book better!
I truly cannot believe I wrote and edited this novel in six months. My last one took YEARS!

Felicidades,
Kathy :-)

Reader reviews

2010-03-21T20:25:00.000-07:00

Wow, three weeks have already passed since my novel came out. (LINK!)

My biggest fear was wondering if people would "get it", and secondly if it would translate outside of the craft world. And the Latina/o fiction world.

Thankfully the answer is a big YES to both of those! *Knock on wood* There have not been any scathing or bad reviews, and overall they are all positive. The ones that do have criticism are very valid and insightful. I've found them to be very helpful as I'm working on my next book!

Thank you so much to everyone who has bought and read the book, and those who left reviews too, I am so grateful! It puts a lot of pressure for the follow up, I hope it goes over just as well or better...*yikes!*

Have a super day, and go out and READ - any book, just read!!!

Here is a new review that just popped up today, and it made me so happy to read it.

Curling Up By The Fire: For those who let books take them somewhere else...
Waking Up In The Land of Glitter
by Kathy Cano-Murillo
2010 Grand Central Publishing
ISBN:978-0-446-50924-4
Softcover Edition
327 Pages
Genre: Fiction

4.5 / 5 Stars

My Thoughts
I was rather impressed with this novel. I found it funny, quirky, sweet, and rather inspiring. It was a beautiful story about love, friendship, and hope, all based around a love for crafting and the phenomenon that seems to be sweeping over our nation. Although I am not really a crafty person, I found myself inspired to think maybe I could give it a shot before reality actually set in again.

The relationship between the three women is interesting, but I actually found the character development of each woman much more interesting. The self-discovery process each women went through during the novel was fraught with missteps and problems, but the development of self-esteem, slow as it was, and the discovery of what each of them was capable of in their lives, was utterly fascinating. I found myself rooting for each one, but at the same time, I was also thinking about my own life as each one went through their own changes, and looking at my own life to see if maybe I wasn't achieving my own potential as well. I believe it was one of the reasons I began to blog as I felt I wasn't achieving enough in my own reviewing world; I needed more of an outlet and I needed to achieve something more. I could totally relate to what each of those women was feeling so it felt really personal to me. Naturally the real development of a true friendship always come with a series of tests, and all of these women have secrets that will test their friendship. When these secrets burst open one day, will the foundation of their friendship be strong enough to withstand the forces whipping around them or will they go their separate ways? Sorry folks, you will have to read the book to find out.

Verdict
By writing from the personal viewpoint of each character, you get to feel what each character is thinking and feeling and I really enjoyed that aspect of this novel. The transitions between characters were seamless and flowed beautifully. I especially enjoyed the Spanish influence in this novel and loved learning about the few Spanish cultural traditions that were mentioned. For those who do not have a background in Spanish, the author does include a glossary of Spanish terms to help the reader. I am definitely looking forward to future novels from Ms. Cano-Murillo.

For those who are interested in using this novel for their reading groups, the author includes a great Reading Group Guide, in both Spanish and English, for your use. Posted by Stephanie at 7:03 PM

Felicidades,
Kathy :-)

EVENTS: Fiskars and B&N

2010-03-19T21:27:00.000-07:00

If you live in the Phoenix area, come see me at my next book signing!

This is my last signing for the month and I'm celebrating. The first 15 people to attend will receive a tube of Crafty Chica™ Chunky Glitter™ !

Saturday, March 20: Barnes and Noble, 2 p.m.
21001 N. Tatum Blvd, Phoenix, AZ (Desert Ridge Marketplace)

Next event - SUNDAY!!

A live web chat hosted by Rebecca Peck at http://www.fiskateers.com/blog/.

Here is a cute story. Remember in January when I was heading out to CHA and the Phoenix airport closed because of the crazy storm? Well, our flight was canceled that night and we had to come back the next morning. Who do I see at my flight gate? Rebecca! We had a blast sharing stories of our crafty adventures while we waited for the chaos to settle down around us. And before we stepped foot on the plane, she invited me to do a web chat when my novel came out. So here we are! Here is the description she wrote:

Kathy is such a joy to chat with, even when you’re stuck on standby at the Phoenix airport, and her daughter Maya is a gem! You won’t want to miss this chat! Kathy will even be reading a few excerpts from her new novel! So join us on Sunday, March 21st at 9 pm EST, on our Livestream channel. We’ll have drama, glitter, and fun prizes from Fiskars and iLoveToCreate! If you want to participate in the text chat, you’ll need to register for a Livestream account. Can’t wait to see all of you there!

So remember - THIS SUNDAY - 6 p.m. PT and 9 pm ET. FREE prizes!
Don't forget to register at the Fiskars Livestream channel!

Felicidades,
Kathy :-)

Two thumbs up from my little cousins

2010-03-18T20:23:00.000-07:00

Felicidades,
Kathy :-)

Get sketchy

2010-03-18T00:37:00.000-07:00

I've been working away on my novel edits that are due next week. I'm barely halfway through and only have a few days left. Actually, nights, because I have my day job! I've learned sketching helps.

One of the issues I've had trouble with is pinning down my main character's outfits. She is a vintage fashionista and even though I can see her outfits and accessories in my head, I was having trouble translating them through my keyboard. This is where I unleashed my crafty side.

I sketched her outfits! Every time I come up to a scene where her outfit is supposed to make an impact and I don't have time to search through Polyvore or through magazines, I sketch my vision. It is much easier and faster - and more fun too!

Felicidades,
Kathy :-)

Photos from the Tucson Book Festival

2010-03-14T20:20:00.000-07:00

LINK
Felicidades,
Kathy :-)

Come see me this weekend!

2010-03-12T20:14:00.000-08:00

Come see me this weekend!

Tucson Festival of Books!

Saturday, March 13, 2010

11:30-12:30 Waking Up In The Land of Glitter: A Reading and Q&A Session with the Crafty Chica!

Kathy Cano-Murillo, widely known as the Crafty Chica, will do a reading from her newly published novel, Waking Up In The Land Of Glitter and also have a short Q&A session with the audience.

12:30-1:30 Crafty Chica Story Book Shadow Boxes

Participants will be using various papers and pages to embellish a multi-compartment shadow box. Participants will use images, printed quotes and found objects to create a visual story about self-empowerment! Boxes, paints, glitters, glues and trims included. Participants should bring small gumball-sized mementos and/or photos if desired.

Sunday, March 14, 2010

11:00-1:30 Crafty Chica Poetic Charm Bracelets

Participants will create a shiny, dangly charm bracelet themed around books, reading and writing. Bracelets will incorporate word beads, charms, pendants and more!

Felicidades,
Kathy :-)