Santa's Magical Christmas Tree by Doris Bowers

11/16/2019

Debut children’s author, Doris Bowers, introduces us to her first book, “Santa’s Magical Christmas Tree”:
Terrance and Velda Powers get to help mom pick out their special Christmas Tree. When they get it home, they find it is Magical! They find something Special and Magical in their Christmas Tree! What can it be?
Keep reading to find out, and all the fun Velda and Terrance have with their discovery.

This is such a cute book; children will love reading this or having it read to them. The joy and excitement captured in this story is quite contagious and will leave you feeling wonderful.
I have cut many Christmas trees in my life, my family owns a wholesale Christmas tree farm, and I have never found one like this tree. I didn’t know what I was missing!
The action and dialogue are great fun, from a nice, old man selling the trees to a mystery guest.
I award “Santa’s Magical Christmas Tree” a score of 5.0 stars.

You can buy this book:
https://smile.amazon.com/Santas-Magical-Christmas-Tree-Book-ebook https://www.goodreads.com/-santa-s-magical-christmas-tree

You can follow the author:
https://twitter.com/DorisKoalaGirl
http://www.instagram.com/dkoalagirl/
facebook.com/doris.jarrett.52

Copyright © 2019 Mark L. Schultz except for the author’s introduction

25 Comments

Doris Bowers link

11/19/2019 03:42:12 pm

This is the first of, hopefully, many books of Terrance and Velda and their fun adventures.
I appreciate you, and of course Grizz, reviewing my book and promoting it. I hope it brings joy to many children, of ALL ages!
Doris

Mark

11/19/2019 04:22:23 pm

You are welcome, Doris. We enjoyed your book. I read it aloud and Grizz wagged his tail.
Please, tell us more about yourself. Perhaps, something a little bit beyond your bio.

11/19/2019 10:32:00 pm

A little fact about my book is the little girl's name, Velda, was my mother's name. I always liked her name so decided to carry on her name in my book. I started writing the book a couple of years after she passed so it's nice to finally get the book out for all to read and enjoy.

11/19/2019 10:46:00 pm

No wonder that name means so much to you. That is a nice tribute to your mother.
New questions.
What inspired you to write this book?
Why did you choose this genre, or do you feel the genre chose you?
Who designed the cover of your book? Feel free to drop a link if appropriate.
What do the elements on the cover represent?

11/19/2019 11:08:07 pm

I believe this genre picked me. The story was in my mind for a while and then I just had to start writing the story down on paper...well, typing it rather! Same with my second book, it's in my mind and stays there until I start putting it down on paper. I actually already have ideas for other fun adventures for Velda and Terrance in my head just waiting to get written down! Never ending.
The cover for my book came from my own picture of my tree that I decorated! Hmm, maybe I shouldn't admit that! I added a few extra images to it. Several people have told me they like it and it draws your attention. It's colorful.

11/19/2019 11:23:55 pm

It's a nice looking tree. I like the Santa bear figures at the bottom of the tree.
Like so many writers, the stories are bursting to get out of your head. Let me suggest you write a two or three line summary of each idea, start an idea notebook or folder. That way you don't lose any of them.
New questions.
Was it hard to come up with the title? What was the process?
Is there a story behind the name of Terrance or the elves?
Have you entered any writing contests?
Have you won awards of any kind for your writing?

11/20/2019 03:37:56 pm

The title was easy. Not really sure how but the story is a magical tree with a surprise + Christmas + Santa = Santa's Magical Christmas Tree! The name Terrance I made up. I don't even know anyone by that name, but I knew I needed a specific name to go with Velda. I made up all the names but Velda. I'm so creative! 😄
No I haven't entered any writing contests. I'm a newbie at all of this putting the book out there and selling it. I will do better with my second story for Velda and Terrance! I'm actually still working on getting the illustrations for this book. I had hoped to have them added but it isn't easy getting the pictures "just right"!

11/20/2019 03:55:27 pm

The title is just right for a children's book, no doubt.
Short story contests are a good way of polishing writing skills. There are good and bad contests. There is at least one good blog or link to a blog on my website for contests. If you search for those terms you will find them.
New questions.
Did you go through the query process or did you go straight to indie publishing or self-publishing, and why?
How do you think your book compares to a book published by a major publisher?
There are many unethical practices in publishing, which one is the most unbearable in your mind?

11/20/2019 04:08:59 pm

I did one query but they failed to state they were only taking 5 manuscripts. Over 5,000 were submitted. So I'm more cautious now. I like the self-published way because you can get your book out there at least. Sure, maybe it won't get discovered but I can take pride in that I finished and am trying.
I have checked out your website...you provide a lot of suggestions, helpful websites and knowledge for us newbies! Thanks for that Mark!!
The only thing I can think beneficial about using a publisher is they have the ability to get your book out fast and wide. Downfall is you don't make anything until your book does...and if it doesn't I have heard you could be stuck paying back so.e of the advance money. That said, if someone offered to print hard copy of my book and publish it I wouldn't turn them down immediately! 😁

11/20/2019 04:34:17 pm

Tons of blogs have been written on how to query, how to find an agent and land a publisher. I think it's far tougher than it was before Amazon. Jeff Bezos turned the publishing world upside-down! It has never recovered. So many publishers have left the stage.
Publishers are dealing with an ever shrinking profit margin, they don't take chances hardly at all. They can't afford to make several bad bets.
On the other hand, there are many scammers who are happy to promise the moon, take your money and leave you with nothing, not even your book. Always get a lawyer to look over a contract. You don't want to lose all the rights to your intellectual property. These days there are many ways to license your content, beyond a book. There are large print books, audio books, comic or graphic books, plays, TV series, movies, streaming, video games, merchandising and then foreign rights for all of the above.
Serious research is required before ever signing a contract.
New questions.
Do you have a favorite book by another author?
Did you have a favorite book as a child?
Do you ever read a book more than once? If so, which one?

11/20/2019 09:53:15 pm

Yes I did do a lot of research. I've been in the legal field 30 years so I know a little something about not letting go of my copyright.
I have to admit I'm partial to mystery so I tend to read John Grisham and Mary Higgins Clark. I don't have much time to read right now; I hardly have time to write on my second book.
As for my favorite book when I was little, I actually still have it! My mother gave me Rapunzel which was a very large book with pink cover. It is not in the best shape but I still love reading it! I'm hoping one day to be able to read it to my grandchildren.

11/20/2019 10:10:11 pm

Wonderful. If you ever want to write a blog about copyright for authors I would love to offer you a spot as a guest blogger. I think a lot of authors need help in that area of knowledge. There is so much at stake.
I have read Grisham, but nothing by Clark, I bet I would enjoy it. I understand what you mean about not having time for reading for pleasure. I am very fortunate in that I enjoy almost everything I read for promotion and proofreading.
That Rapunzel book sounds pretty cute. How nice that you still have it.
New questions.
Are you an under-writer or an over-writer? When the first draft is done, do you need to add more to it to flesh it out or do you have to cut material because there is too much there?
Does writing have a spiritual or healing component for you, does it energize you or make you feel tired?
Why is it important for writers to tap into the emotions of the characters?

11/20/2019 11:00:50 pm

Oh Mark, I am totally an over-writer!! I tend to go back through a chapter once finished and cut even before the book is done. However, I keep anything I cut just in case I change my mind! Would I be alone if I admit that I actually laugh at my own writing?? Haha. I feel the characters while I write so when I actually find time to sit and write it is very enjoyable.
I would be happy to write a blog on copyright. I definitely made sure I had my book registered before I put it on Kindle. It isn't that expensive and a copyright is good for 5 years. The thing people need to realize is copyright is not patent. Copyright protects your story. You own all rights to your story. A patent is totally different. Sorry, I'll save that info for the blog.
When it comes to the effect writing has on me, it totally energizes me and lifts me up. Of course it could be because I write fun stories with great little characters! I plan to take time during Thanksgiving to get back to writing on my second book.

11/20/2019 11:14:10 pm

Excellent! I am very pleased to have you write a blog for my website. This is such an important area, along with Intellectual Property rights.
I love that you have fun while writing. It does help that your stories are positively directed.
New questions.
Have you ever used yourself or other acquaintances as a character for a starting point in a story? Would they recognize you or themselves in the story?
What is your writing routine when you sit down to write?
Do you write in a straight line or do you write whatever the muse provides for you at a given moment?

11/23/2019 11:05:45 am

I don't use any real people in my books. All the characteristics are made up as I write. When I write I write in order of what's happening in my story. I can't jump ahead and then go back and fill in. No, I have to write in a straight line. I do tend to sometimes read over my book from the beginning just to double check my story. That is when I may add or delete portions. It isn't easy writing so a child will love the story. I know once I start writing it takes over and I don't want to stop!

11/23/2019 12:12:51 pm

I am not surprised you write in a straight line. Many authors do, that can get complicated when an author is pantsing the story, not developing an outline before or during the writing of the story.
Knowing your audience is an important maxim for every author, children are no different.
New questions.
What is the one thing you hope readers will remember from your book?
What else are you writing these days?
Do you have a classics author you admire?

11/24/2019 12:36:53 pm

I would hope the readers just get enjoyment out of my book and that they read it many times. I want to spread happiness and cheer and I believe my story does that. My goal is to put many smiles on faces all through the world. Children of all ages can enjoy my story, even if they are reading it to their four legged furry family member!

11/24/2019 01:55:59 pm

I am currently working on my second book for Terrance and Velda. They have a new addition to their family and mischief abounds! I had hoped to get the book done so I could publish it this Christmas but life got in the way and there are so many different chapters forming as I write this book that it is taking longer to finish. My goal now is to finish it by next Christmas. But, as you know, sometimes the story takes over and we can't help but write away! This book will definitely be longer than my first, but it will be just as much fun to read.

11/24/2019 02:37:25 pm

Well that sounds very nice a new book and hopefully ready for next Christmas excellent.
The new story sounds like it will be much fun, I look forward to it.
New questions.
Was there a particular moment when you knew you wanted to write for children?
What software do you use to write and publish your books, and why do you use those?
How do you keep track of all the characters and events in your books?
Are you a plotter, a pantster, or a hybrid?

11/24/2019 04:03:07 pm

Lots if questions to answer. I would say my writing is pantster. I started with two characters in my first book knowing how they would appear and started from there. I would write and let the story sort of take me to the end. I always enjoyed writing children's stories. I enjoyed the homework I had in school when it was writing stories. I never really thought about publishing but when self-publishing came along I decided to do that route. I'm a no name author so I knew I wouldn't be able to get a publisher but Kindle Direct was getting really popular so I thought I'd try it. I at least could get my book out there. I feel like my book can have many stories so I can add to it as many stories as I can get written so I will probably always stick with Terrance and Velda and Santa's Magical Christmas Tree, with who knows how many volumes.
I do have ideas (based on true stories) from working in the legal field for 30 yrs that I would love to put into a book but that isn't something I want to self-publish. I have a title and I know what I want for the cover. Maybe some day I'll write it...

11/24/2019 05:18:03 pm

Writing a series for children is a nice thing. Kids love a good story, but they like it best in small bites.
Amazon really changed the publishing world. It has been torn wide open. Anyone can publish a book, which is both good and bad news. Because many didn't take the time or care to have their manuscript polished before publishing. Consequently, many have a low opinion of self-published books. That tide is slowly changing, because more are making sure their book is ready for the market before publishing.
Writing in more than one genre is a good way to build a fan base. Hopefully, there will be some crossover. I hope you do write the other books.
New questions.
What is the hardest part about writing books for children?
What is the most valuable piece of advice you have ever received from another writer?
What has been the biggest surprise in your writing journey?

11/24/2019 09:42:56 pm

To me the hardest part about writing children's stories is making sure it is mostly written in their vocabulary. Even if it is an adult reading to them it should be so the children understand. Doing that is not exactly easy. I think the biggest surprise is me actually feeling like the book is done. I think in want I g to make sure the book is ready to publish I kept thinking maybe I should say this or that or have this happen, on and on. So, the fact I managed to get an ending to it was a surprise.
I think the timing for me self-publishing, or at least I hope, the books are better. At least it appears most self-published books can be purchased cheaper.
I have so many different stories/adventures for Velda and Terrance I don't really have time to write the book for my paralegal stories. Some day, maybe, but right now I want to focus on cheery fun children's stories. I still work as a paralegal so these stories take me away from my work stress. As for advice from authors, I have never had any. This is my first book so I'm pretty new in the author world 🌎!

11/24/2019 11:29:30 pm

I hadn't thought about making sure the vocabulary is age appropriate. That makes a lot of sense.
Finishing a book, knowing the writing is done must be a good feeling. So many never get beyond the dreaming-of-writing stage. There must be a small percentage of dreamers that actually sit down to write something. Most of those never get more than a few pages or chapters into the story. Few of those actually finish a first draft. They don't realize that was the easy part. To actually go through all the rewriting and editing to publish a book is quite an accomplishment.
I hope that you keep a notebook of story ideas. That way you will never lose one. If you ever hit writer's block on a story, switching to a completely different story can help free up the connection to the previous one.
Last questions.
Do you think a strong ego is an asset or liability for a writer and why?
Have you ever read a book that changed the way you look at writing?

11/25/2019 04:22:34 pm

I haven't started keeping a note of all of my ideas yet. I guess I should. At my age I'll probably forget what they are by the time I'm ready to start writing a new book. I don't have a strong ego but that wasn't an issue for me writing so I can say not having a strong ego was an asset. I don't believe I have ever read a book that changed how I look at writing, but I have looked at other children's books to make sure I am keeping the language "small" so-to-speak. Yes, it is difficult keeping the language so that children will understand but not too childish so that it is hard for the adult to enjoy. I just hope when people read my book it is one that they can re-read over and over. A new Christmas tradition for them to read at Christmas! I'm a big dreamer...but I'm sure that helps with the writing! Thank you SO much Mark for taking the time to present interview questions so that people will be able to get to know me more. And of course, thank Grizz for me! I hope he gave the story 5 Paws! Doris

11/25/2019 05:14:30 pm

Grizz loved the story. He told me he sees elves all the time. He is getting old.
Keep dreaming big, Doris. I hope you write a lot of stories.
Thank you for taking time out of your busy life to share your journey as a writer. I enjoyed our chat.

Santa's Magical Christmas Tree by Doris Bowers

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