August, 2010
On a Sad Note
Aug
30, 2010 |Filed in:
Uncategorized
Leading puppet animation producer Kihachiro Kawamoto has died of pneumonia. He was 85. He was best known for his “Sangokushi,” (Romance of the Three Kingdoms), but was also behind several other animations. Select this link for the complete story, then please join me in a virtual sake toast.
He was an amazing artist.
Sites You’ve Got to Check Out
Aug
28, 2010 |Filed in:
UncategorizedI just found this site about Antiques and their uses. Before you think, “Bah humbug, I hate antiques and what do they have to do with writing, anyway?” Remember, you may want to write something within an historical context someday. One of the fascinating articles they’ve got up discusses how folks used to cook with quicklime (cooking without a fire) before Chef Boyardee made self-heating cans.
This is an interesting contest with Sarah LaPolla of Curtis Brown. I fear the chance to enter has now closed (I’m not sure on that, so don’t quote me) but it’s still a learning opportunity.
For authors of color, this might be lucrative. Check out publisher Lee and Low’s New Voice Award contest.
And last but not least, many thanks to Fiction Groupie for the link to Jenn Stark’s article on branding tips and trends. Check it out and have a great weekend!
Upcoming Book Release Event
Aug
19, 2010 |Filed in:
UncategorizedI met Jeannie Lin about four years ago as of this coming October. We had both competed in a Miss Snark competition and I loved her entry involving a warrior princess on the way to her wedding and some serious kick-butt action. Since then, Jeannie won the 2009 Golden Heart award and I’ve been so delighted to rediscover Jeannie. She’s a terrific author and mentor and I couldn’t be more tickled that her book, “Butterfly Swords” will be released on the four-year anniversary of when we met – give or take a few days. (I’m SURE the publisher planned it that way. ;D)
Coming up in September, I’ll start a Jeannie Lin season involving give aways, a guest blog with the author, reviews of first her short story, “The Taming of Mei Lin” and then in October, “Butterfly Swords.” In the meanwhile, feast your eyes on this fabulous book trailer:
Then head over to the “Butterfly Swords” promotion page and sign up to win a free copy of “Butterfly Swords” among some other really cool stuff.
2010 Greater Kansas City Japan Festival
Aug
13, 2010 |Filed in:
Uncategorized
Traditional Japanese Musical Performances
Denver Taiko, Kuniko Yamamoto (Japanese Storyteller),
Aya Uchida (Japanese Pop Singer from Japan), God of Shamisen,
Koto and Shakuhachi, J-Band, Bunraku Puppets, K-State Yosakoi Dance Troupe,
KU Okinawan Dance Troupe, Buyo Dance, Metropolitan Youth Orchestra and more
Musical Performances
Concert 1:2-4:30 P.M. Concert 2: 5:30-8:30 P.M.
Japanese Candy Artist
Traditional Japanese Food
11 A.M. – 7 P.M.
Japanese Beer and Sake Tasting
4-7 P.M.
Traditional Japanese Snacks and Sweets
Bazaar Shopping Extravaganza
Unique Japanese craft items, Kimono, dolls and much more
10 A.M. – 8 P.M.
Exhibits
Samurai Armor, Kimonos, Japanese Hina Dolls, Ikebana and Bonsai
Japanese Cultural Village
Fun activities, pictures in Kimono and Samurai armor, craft shop, special performances for kids and adults
Workshops and Demonstrations – Cultural Presentations
Martial Arts
Anime & Manga
Anime and Manga Vendors
Cosplay Contest with Cash Prizes (sign up on the GKCJF website)
Volunteers
Want to volunteer at the GKGJF? Go to the festival website to sign up.
Website
For complete information on events and times, go to:
And the Winner Is…
Straight from the hands of my four-year-old who loves picking out pieces of paper for my contest winners, the winner is…
Jeannie Lin! Jeannie, if you would contact me off line with your address, I’ll be delighted to send you “A Wild Light.”
Thanks to both of you for playing!