Scarecrow Finds a Friend

November 1st kicks off National Novel Writing Month. Five years ago a friend of mine told me about it, and I signed on hoping to make the most of a book idea I'd had. By the end of the month I'd written over 30,000 words in the book that is now at over 200 pages. But I've blocked on finishing it, so this year, I'm starting fresh.

I've only signed up to do a few blog tours this month in order to focus on my own writing instead of someone else's, so I may not be posting as often. I'm hoping by November 30th, I'll be finished or at least close.

If You Only Knew is a novel taking place over 24-48 hours as the Dutcher family is forced to the realization that none of them know each other as well as they thought they did. The answers will change them all forever. I'll post occasional excerpts, and I look forward to your feedback!

Scarecrow Finds a Friend written by Blume R. Rifken and illustrated by Carl W. Wenzel is a perfect story to kick off the holiday season. Scarecrow is enjoying the Thanksgiving season when his good friend Tally the witch comes to him with a problem. Mia's thoughts first: This was a really good book; I liked it. I thought it was neat that Scarecrow and Tally had the same wish, and his plan was really cool. The pictures were pretty cool and how they went along with the words. My favorite picture is the cover with Tally and Scarecrow. Now my review: Wenzel's beautiful watercolor illustrations really make the whole story come to life. The homegrown scenes of fields and harvest set the stage of this terrific story about friendship, and Tally's wildly colored clothing and jewelry make her stand out. Rifken tells a sweet story of friendship and sacrifice all without preaching. I would love to see more of the story of Scarecrow trick-or-treating which is only touched upon here. The books is a great reminder of all we have to be thankful for this season.

Thank you to Paula Krapf at Author Marketing Experts for providing me with a copy of this book!

Molly and Mia's persuasive powers prevailed; we will be getting a rat terrier puppy tomorrow night. It belonged to Molly's boyfriend's family and was the last of the litter. Molly fell in love with the little guy and somehow talked Jesse and I into letting her get him. It will be an interesting lesson for Molly in responsibility. She will be paying for Buffalo Bill, nicknamed Bill, as well as his neutering and shots, and she will take on more responsibility around the house to ensure that it's a safe environment for him. Both girls are over the moon with excitement. Me, not so much. I'll post pictures tomorrow when he arrives.