Gia Volterra De Saulnier's Blog
December 15, 2018
The Legend of the Ghost Train - by Charles "Charlie" Saulnier
This is a short story written by our son, Charles “Charlie” Saulnier that was for a contest (and unfortunately, he is too young to enter). FICTION The Legend of the Ghost Train By Charles Saulnier This is the story of a overconfident engineer and the ghost train that haunts the trail. Along the Chicago railway, there was a spot known as “Deadman’s curve.” It received its name because there was a 10 mph speed limit around a sharp curve with a 200ft drop just below it. To make matters worse, a steep hill lies just before the sharp turn. Although the line is no longer used, people that have walked along the trail, have seen the remains of the line and the evidence of the many runaways and lives the curve has claimed.One runaway sticks out like a sore thumb and its story is known to this day. The date was December 5th, 1910 and the Chicago Mining Co. had a stroke of luck. Some rare metal had been found in the mines. The workman came to dig the metal out and put it on a train. This train maneuvered over the rugged territory and to the transfer yards, where the load is transported to the mainline. The locomotive pulling these trains was a narrow gauge 0-4-2. The engineer for the locomotive was a 22 year old named Nigel. Nigel was new to his job and had been a driver for about a month. He was very confident in his job, maybe a bit too confident for his own good. Nigel never listened to reason and often made mistakes. The other workmen warned Nigel to be careful, but he took no notice. “His confidence will be the death of him.” Said one workman. On December 9th, 1910, there were more trucks than were needed. Nigel guessed the locomotive could take the whole thing. So, without anyone knowing, he coupled the saddle tank up to the 20 trucks, filled with the rare metal and took off. This was the last time the workmen and the foreman ever saw him. At first the journey went well, but soon the line began to climb. The engine struggled up the hill, so Nigel gave the locomotive more power and it snorted up the hill. That was a big mistake. As soon as the locomotive got to the top, the trucks began to push the train down the hill! Nigel hit the brakes, but they were useless against the heavy train. Deadman's curve was approaching fast. Nigel stayed in the locomotive, thinking it was going to make it. The locomotive jumped the rails, broke through the fence, and fell onto the rocks below. The trucks tumbled down after it. It was a horrible mess, the trucks were damaged beyond repair, and the metal was everywhere. Amazingly, the saddle tank managed to stay in one piece, with the exception of a broken side rod and a missing funnel. Nigel was killed upon impact. The wreck was all over the local news and everyone was shocked of how the engine even survived after such a fall. The engine was soon salvaged and things tried to get back to normal. Unfortunately, nine other other runaways and breakaways occurred, which gave the railway a bad reputation. The last straw was when the steam pumping engine failed and the mines flooded, closing the mine. The tracks were removed and a trail was made. The steam engine was left to rot on a siding, and towns have sprung up. Legend says that on a moonlit night you can hear a steam engine climbing a hill, if you get lucky, you can see the engine as it goes past, whistling fit to burst, before disappearing just as it reaches where the Deadman’s curve once was. Forever repeating its fateful end. A statue of the engine was built in the town near the curve. Some people like it and historians tell the story every year. Sometimes, people go there and say that at night, you can see the statue staring to its destination and the mine. Where it once worked, proud and silent. I wonder if those people are right, don’t you?
November 19, 2018
Vieri "Guy" Volterra - 3/23/32 to 11/16/18 - Obituary
To all of you that read my blog(s) and my posts, I felt a need to add some information that was not originally on the first obituary. The two paragraphs below are not listed and written by myself.
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16 November 2018
Vieri "Guy" Volterra, Massachusetts Superior Court Judge, Mentor of Lawyers, Advocate for Social Justice passed away peacefully in his sleep at the age of 86 among his beloved 3rd wife Melanie Ray.
He was born March 23rd of 1932 to Germana and Renzo Volterra. He is survived by Gia Volterra de Saulnier and Joshua Volterra and grandfather to Charles Saulnier and Father in law to Richard Saulnier. He is also survived by his first wife, Margo Volterra and his second wife Kathleen Volterra. He also is survived by his brother Max Volterra, his wife Marion and their two children, Hanna Francis (married to Tom Francis and their two children) and Joel Volterra (married to Barbara and their two children).
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Actual Obituary
VOLTERRA, Vieri Massachusetts Judge, Mentor to Young Lawyers, Advocate for Social Justice Vieri (Guy) Volterra, age 86, of Boston, on November 16. Cherished and beloved husband of Melanie Ray. Father of Gia and Joshua; grandfather of Gia's and Rick's son Charlie. Brother of Max and brother-in-law of Marion. Cousin of Anna and Sara Volterra of Florence, Italy. Uncle of Max and Marion's children Hannah, married to Tom, and Joel, married to Barbara. Treasured by many friends and colleagues whose lives he enriched through shared interests and activities. Vieri was born in Milan, Italy on March 23, 1932. At the age of 7, he arrived in the U.S., living first in Cambridge and then in Attleboro. He graduated from Attleboro High School and earned his B.A. at Brown University. He was drafted by the U.S. Army to serve in the Korean War after college, and was stationed in Hanau, Germany from 1954–1957 with the 899th Tank Battalion. He graduated from the Boston University School of Law in 1959. Vieri's outrage at the acts of fascism in Mussolini's Italy and then McCarthyism in the U.S. when he was in college motivated him to dedicate his professional life to seeking social justice. He was a lawyer's lawyer and a judge's judge. He started out in solo practice in New Bedford where he went from criminal defense attorney to public defender, assistant district attorney, and counsel to the mayor on Model Cities. He also practiced civil, criminal, and municipal law in Attleboro with his brother Max. The highlight of Vieri's career was serving 27 years as a Massachusetts judge - first in the Taunton District Court and then for 20 years with the Massachusetts Superior Court. Judge Volterra was known as compassionate, fair, and very productive; he diligently presided in both civil and criminal cases in every county of the state. He was deeply devoted to the careers of his law clerks, for whom he was more mentor than boss. In his professional and personal life, he was admired for his wry sense of humor. After retiring from the court, Vieri rejoined his brother's law partnership and set up an independent neutral mediation practice. In 2002 he received the Law and Justice Award from the Commission for Social Justice, Sons of Italy in America. In 2009 he left private practice and joined the Senior Partners for Justice/Volunteer Lawyers Project of the Massachusetts Bar Association to represent indigent civil litigants in family law disputes, using his knowledge of Spanish to serve Hispanic clients who did not speak English. In 2012 he received the Victor J. Garo Public Service Award from the B.U. School of Law in recognition of his outstanding pro bono work. Vieri had a lifelong affection for his native Italy; he loved visiting family there and celebrating Italian culture, food, and wine. A lifelong champion of social justice, Vieri was vitally engaged in issues of oppression and conflict in the U.S. and internationally. A voracious reader of history and literature, he regularly punctuated his animated discussions of philosophy and politics with recommendations of books for his friends to read. Vieri will be interred at the Massachusetts National Cemetery for Veterans in Bourne, overlooking Buzzard's Bay where he loved to sail. A memorial service will take place there in spring, 2019. In lieu of flowers, donations in honor of Vieri may be made to the Southern Poverty Law Center (www.splcenter.org) or the American Friends Service Committee (www.afsc.org).
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At this time there is to be a private service only.
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16 November 2018
Vieri "Guy" Volterra, Massachusetts Superior Court Judge, Mentor of Lawyers, Advocate for Social Justice passed away peacefully in his sleep at the age of 86 among his beloved 3rd wife Melanie Ray.
He was born March 23rd of 1932 to Germana and Renzo Volterra. He is survived by Gia Volterra de Saulnier and Joshua Volterra and grandfather to Charles Saulnier and Father in law to Richard Saulnier. He is also survived by his first wife, Margo Volterra and his second wife Kathleen Volterra. He also is survived by his brother Max Volterra, his wife Marion and their two children, Hanna Francis (married to Tom Francis and their two children) and Joel Volterra (married to Barbara and their two children).
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Actual Obituary
VOLTERRA, Vieri Massachusetts Judge, Mentor to Young Lawyers, Advocate for Social Justice Vieri (Guy) Volterra, age 86, of Boston, on November 16. Cherished and beloved husband of Melanie Ray. Father of Gia and Joshua; grandfather of Gia's and Rick's son Charlie. Brother of Max and brother-in-law of Marion. Cousin of Anna and Sara Volterra of Florence, Italy. Uncle of Max and Marion's children Hannah, married to Tom, and Joel, married to Barbara. Treasured by many friends and colleagues whose lives he enriched through shared interests and activities. Vieri was born in Milan, Italy on March 23, 1932. At the age of 7, he arrived in the U.S., living first in Cambridge and then in Attleboro. He graduated from Attleboro High School and earned his B.A. at Brown University. He was drafted by the U.S. Army to serve in the Korean War after college, and was stationed in Hanau, Germany from 1954–1957 with the 899th Tank Battalion. He graduated from the Boston University School of Law in 1959. Vieri's outrage at the acts of fascism in Mussolini's Italy and then McCarthyism in the U.S. when he was in college motivated him to dedicate his professional life to seeking social justice. He was a lawyer's lawyer and a judge's judge. He started out in solo practice in New Bedford where he went from criminal defense attorney to public defender, assistant district attorney, and counsel to the mayor on Model Cities. He also practiced civil, criminal, and municipal law in Attleboro with his brother Max. The highlight of Vieri's career was serving 27 years as a Massachusetts judge - first in the Taunton District Court and then for 20 years with the Massachusetts Superior Court. Judge Volterra was known as compassionate, fair, and very productive; he diligently presided in both civil and criminal cases in every county of the state. He was deeply devoted to the careers of his law clerks, for whom he was more mentor than boss. In his professional and personal life, he was admired for his wry sense of humor. After retiring from the court, Vieri rejoined his brother's law partnership and set up an independent neutral mediation practice. In 2002 he received the Law and Justice Award from the Commission for Social Justice, Sons of Italy in America. In 2009 he left private practice and joined the Senior Partners for Justice/Volunteer Lawyers Project of the Massachusetts Bar Association to represent indigent civil litigants in family law disputes, using his knowledge of Spanish to serve Hispanic clients who did not speak English. In 2012 he received the Victor J. Garo Public Service Award from the B.U. School of Law in recognition of his outstanding pro bono work. Vieri had a lifelong affection for his native Italy; he loved visiting family there and celebrating Italian culture, food, and wine. A lifelong champion of social justice, Vieri was vitally engaged in issues of oppression and conflict in the U.S. and internationally. A voracious reader of history and literature, he regularly punctuated his animated discussions of philosophy and politics with recommendations of books for his friends to read. Vieri will be interred at the Massachusetts National Cemetery for Veterans in Bourne, overlooking Buzzard's Bay where he loved to sail. A memorial service will take place there in spring, 2019. In lieu of flowers, donations in honor of Vieri may be made to the Southern Poverty Law Center (www.splcenter.org) or the American Friends Service Committee (www.afsc.org).
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At this time there is to be a private service only.
June 9, 2016
Be warned - true story
Hi there again world, it's me. I know, I've been busy with getting ready for our faires (which are coming along nicely.
I know I don't get too many hits on this blog, but thought I would share what happened to me today and yes, I am going public. What this company did is not cool/Kosher/Professional and I will not be returning.
For this blog sake, I'll strike out the name of the company.
So very disappointed - Be warned of The Optical House : I am really very disappointed. I've been going to The Optical House for years and when I was quoted for my glasses, they quoted me $319. When I got there a week later, they informed me no, it's $420. I asked about my VSP discount and they told me that they already discounted me. I went to my HR dept and they printed me out the paperwork informing that I was supposed to get a 20% discount on my glass frames, but I didn't see it on the receipt. I went all the way back to Wakefield again today and they informed me that the discount was already on the glasses (no where is that stated by the way) and that the guy misinformed me when he quoted me. I will NOT be returning to the Optical House, and be warned if you do get quoted for glasses to get it printed out in writing.
You have been warned by yours truly - here in little MA.
You know folks do read my blog right? Oh, am I writing to myself? I guess I am...make a comment if you want.
Rant over.
I know I don't get too many hits on this blog, but thought I would share what happened to me today and yes, I am going public. What this company did is not cool/Kosher/Professional and I will not be returning.
For this blog sake, I'll strike out the name of the company.
So very disappointed - Be warned of The Optical House : I am really very disappointed. I've been going to The Optical House for years and when I was quoted for my glasses, they quoted me $319. When I got there a week later, they informed me no, it's $420. I asked about my VSP discount and they told me that they already discounted me. I went to my HR dept and they printed me out the paperwork informing that I was supposed to get a 20% discount on my glass frames, but I didn't see it on the receipt. I went all the way back to Wakefield again today and they informed me that the discount was already on the glasses (no where is that stated by the way) and that the guy misinformed me when he quoted me. I will NOT be returning to the Optical House, and be warned if you do get quoted for glasses to get it printed out in writing.
You have been warned by yours truly - here in little MA.
You know folks do read my blog right? Oh, am I writing to myself? I guess I am...make a comment if you want.
Rant over.
May 27, 2016
Summer is quickly approaching and so is our events!
Wow, is it summer already? Well, almost anyways. I just have been so busy with life in general, that I almost forgot about this blog (yeah, almost).
So, here's what's going on:
My picture book Journey to Jazzland is getting revised and is being formatted at the moment according to my publisher. This version will have new things like an interview with the characters, a fabulous forward by a famous jazz bassist (and yes, I'm going to tease you all and not give his name out yet...), and some other things! Hopefully, the book will be out shortly and you can bet your bottom dollar that I'll share the news as soon as I know!
Our events are coming up shortly!
Yikes! 53 days to go before we do Abbadia Mare Renaissance Festival at Hammond Castle located at 80 Hesperus Avenue, Gloucester, MA which will be on July 16th and 17th from 11 am to 5 pm each day! We all love this event as we get to play in a real Castle! (Yeah!) Hammond Castle Museum!
There is parking available at Stage Fort Park (Gloucester charges $15 per vehicle) but free busing to and from the Castle will be provided!
Then next up for us is Silver Kingdom Festival which will be at Ye Olde Commons, which is located at 120 Northside Road, Charlton, MA. Dates for that event are August 20th and 21st from 10:30 am to 5 pm each day! You can even get advanced tickets online! http://www.brownpapertickets.com/event/2509434 is the link!
Phew, oh and Charlie turns 12 today - yeah the crazy kid. So tall now and of course we need new shoes (yep, growing like a weed as they say).
Okay, that's all the news for now! Should hopefully post again soon before faire!
So, here's what's going on:
My picture book Journey to Jazzland is getting revised and is being formatted at the moment according to my publisher. This version will have new things like an interview with the characters, a fabulous forward by a famous jazz bassist (and yes, I'm going to tease you all and not give his name out yet...), and some other things! Hopefully, the book will be out shortly and you can bet your bottom dollar that I'll share the news as soon as I know!
Our events are coming up shortly!
Yikes! 53 days to go before we do Abbadia Mare Renaissance Festival at Hammond Castle located at 80 Hesperus Avenue, Gloucester, MA which will be on July 16th and 17th from 11 am to 5 pm each day! We all love this event as we get to play in a real Castle! (Yeah!) Hammond Castle Museum!
There is parking available at Stage Fort Park (Gloucester charges $15 per vehicle) but free busing to and from the Castle will be provided!
Then next up for us is Silver Kingdom Festival which will be at Ye Olde Commons, which is located at 120 Northside Road, Charlton, MA. Dates for that event are August 20th and 21st from 10:30 am to 5 pm each day! You can even get advanced tickets online! http://www.brownpapertickets.com/event/2509434 is the link!
Phew, oh and Charlie turns 12 today - yeah the crazy kid. So tall now and of course we need new shoes (yep, growing like a weed as they say).
Okay, that's all the news for now! Should hopefully post again soon before faire!
August 3, 2015
If it's too good to be true...sigh
Hi everyone,
So sorry I haven't posted in a while, I've been a little a lot busy what with putting on two shows this year and working full time, trying to plug my picture book (which is in process of being revised), and now...
Well, as of Friday, I lost my temporary gig that I was working at for 4 months. I guess I should have done more research on the temporary agency that placed me, I should have Google'd them, shouldawouldacoulda right? Sigh, now I find out as of Friday that my temp gig is done (over, finito, gone, caputsky) and what do you know, the agency (that I will not name here) is NOT listed with unemployment....
Wait, what? Huh? I called first thing this morning to my contact through said agency (which again, being professional that I am will not name but boy am I so very tempted).
So, the agency I worked for, I finally reached and he told me another name/website that did look legit but that didn't sound correct so I tried that...what do you know...it didn't work again...so, I called hubby to find out exactly who was paying me the last couple of months, and what do you know, it was another name (?) wow... So, I tried that and that worked.
Now the agency I was working for is insisting that I send them an updated resume? I think NOT. I am not that stupid to go through this twice!
Lesson learned: Do ALL your research on any/all job leads you may have as they may NOT be a valid company to work for.
So sorry I haven't posted in a while, I've been a little a lot busy what with putting on two shows this year and working full time, trying to plug my picture book (which is in process of being revised), and now...
Well, as of Friday, I lost my temporary gig that I was working at for 4 months. I guess I should have done more research on the temporary agency that placed me, I should have Google'd them, shouldawouldacoulda right? Sigh, now I find out as of Friday that my temp gig is done (over, finito, gone, caputsky) and what do you know, the agency (that I will not name here) is NOT listed with unemployment....
Wait, what? Huh? I called first thing this morning to my contact through said agency (which again, being professional that I am will not name but boy am I so very tempted).
So, the agency I worked for, I finally reached and he told me another name/website that did look legit but that didn't sound correct so I tried that...what do you know...it didn't work again...so, I called hubby to find out exactly who was paying me the last couple of months, and what do you know, it was another name (?) wow... So, I tried that and that worked.
Now the agency I was working for is insisting that I send them an updated resume? I think NOT. I am not that stupid to go through this twice!
Lesson learned: Do ALL your research on any/all job leads you may have as they may NOT be a valid company to work for.
March 25, 2015
Spring Blog Hop :) Happy Spring boing boing
Good Morning! Spring has sprung, and we are entering summer reading soon!
Today we are featuring...Award Winning Author,Wendy Nystrom!
Wendy's newest book, Amongst the Clouds, is a wonderful spring edition with a glorioustrip among a mysterious iridescent cloud,with James and his magical Icelandic friends!
James and Syvok 4th adventure has a new mystery floating about. James is curious to explore the iridescent cloud. All the colors of a rainbow glow, surely there are adventures to sow. Come along and meet new friends! Dragons, cats, troll, and more, lots of fun is in store. Join the adventures up in the sky and help the wizard find her magical key. Come and see what the iridescent cloud hides!
You can grab Amongst the Clouds on Amazon or Barnes and Noble today!
Amongst the Clouds on Amazon
Amongst the Clouds at Barnes & Noble
You can learn about Wendy's other books in her series by following her in the linked locations below!
Wendy's Amazon Author Page
Wendy's Facebook Page
Wendy's Blog
Wendy on Twitter
Wendy on Tumblr
Wendy on Pinterest
Wendy on TSU
Wendy is published with Anchor Group Publishing. You can find more from Anchor Group at:www.anchorgrouppublishing.com
Today we are featuring...Award Winning Author,Wendy Nystrom!
Wendy's newest book, Amongst the Clouds, is a wonderful spring edition with a glorioustrip among a mysterious iridescent cloud,with James and his magical Icelandic friends!
James and Syvok 4th adventure has a new mystery floating about. James is curious to explore the iridescent cloud. All the colors of a rainbow glow, surely there are adventures to sow. Come along and meet new friends! Dragons, cats, troll, and more, lots of fun is in store. Join the adventures up in the sky and help the wizard find her magical key. Come and see what the iridescent cloud hides!
You can grab Amongst the Clouds on Amazon or Barnes and Noble today!
Amongst the Clouds on Amazon
Amongst the Clouds at Barnes & Noble
You can learn about Wendy's other books in her series by following her in the linked locations below!
Wendy's Amazon Author Page
Wendy's Facebook Page
Wendy's Blog
Wendy on Twitter
Wendy on Tumblr
Wendy on Pinterest
Wendy on TSU
Wendy is published with Anchor Group Publishing. You can find more from Anchor Group at:www.anchorgrouppublishing.com
March 22, 2015
Time is not on my side
- warning this is a little rant/vent -
These last few weeks for me has been well, interesting to say the least. I can't even write about what is going on with me in my current work situation yet, but it's getting rather frustrating is an understatement.
However, I still seem to muddle through the job and when I come home, I need to stress about how to get my book "Journey to Jazzland" sold this year. According to my publisher, no sales have been done since December of 2014.
I am trying my best to get the book out there, and I'm certainly willing to try new/fresh ideas here. I am even contacting Music groups now to see if there is any interest in selling my book in their catalogs, but I practically ran out of books and it costs $$ to buy more books, and I need to make the dough to get more books.
I know, I'm not complaining that this is the end of the world, I know that food, rent/mortgage/kid/life comes first. I know that my car needed to get an oil change and thankful that I did get one. It's just one thing after another.
I know life goes on, and my book has sold, and I am forever grateful to the folks who have supported me on this "journey". I know that as a first time picture book author, I have done pretty well, and I just have to keep going.
I know, this takes time. Time. Tick...tick....tick...2 years later - sigh.
I hope that if you did go buy a copy of my book, "Journey to Jazzland' you could leave a review on Amazon.com! http://www.amazon.com/Journey-Jazzlan...
These last few weeks for me has been well, interesting to say the least. I can't even write about what is going on with me in my current work situation yet, but it's getting rather frustrating is an understatement.
However, I still seem to muddle through the job and when I come home, I need to stress about how to get my book "Journey to Jazzland" sold this year. According to my publisher, no sales have been done since December of 2014.
I am trying my best to get the book out there, and I'm certainly willing to try new/fresh ideas here. I am even contacting Music groups now to see if there is any interest in selling my book in their catalogs, but I practically ran out of books and it costs $$ to buy more books, and I need to make the dough to get more books.
I know, I'm not complaining that this is the end of the world, I know that food, rent/mortgage/kid/life comes first. I know that my car needed to get an oil change and thankful that I did get one. It's just one thing after another.
I know life goes on, and my book has sold, and I am forever grateful to the folks who have supported me on this "journey". I know that as a first time picture book author, I have done pretty well, and I just have to keep going.
I know, this takes time. Time. Tick...tick....tick...2 years later - sigh.
I hope that if you did go buy a copy of my book, "Journey to Jazzland' you could leave a review on Amazon.com! http://www.amazon.com/Journey-Jazzlan...
February 1, 2015
A new year and oh joy more snow ;) (venting and other stuff)
Sorry, I guess I've been a little busy posting other stuff and since tonight is the big game (yay the football game yippee) and boy doesn't have school tomorrow and Hubby just had surgery (timing is fun huh? )
In the meantime, my book "Journey to Jazzland" now has 25 positive reviews up on Amazon, but not sure what that equals in sales and there was even an independent bookstore that sent me a letter (of which I sent an e mail to, but yet to get a response from) that didn't sell my book and if I don't come to VT (and by the way I live in MA so that's like a 4 hour drive just to get to this said store) they will donate my book to charity? Really? I sent it to them by request with my own money - sigh - lesson learned - should have kept it to sell on my own accord...grrrr.
We are doing two festivals this season: Abbadia Mare at Hammond Castle this July and then we go on again for Silver Kingdom Festival in Charlton, MA and yes, we're searching for vendors - but we'll post more information on our other blogs soon about that.
Anyway, sorry I haven't posted in a bit - miss all my friends - hope I get to see you this year, it's been way to long - and yes, we're having another snow storm tonight and tomorrow so be safe in New England kids!
Gvds out
In the meantime, my book "Journey to Jazzland" now has 25 positive reviews up on Amazon, but not sure what that equals in sales and there was even an independent bookstore that sent me a letter (of which I sent an e mail to, but yet to get a response from) that didn't sell my book and if I don't come to VT (and by the way I live in MA so that's like a 4 hour drive just to get to this said store) they will donate my book to charity? Really? I sent it to them by request with my own money - sigh - lesson learned - should have kept it to sell on my own accord...grrrr.
We are doing two festivals this season: Abbadia Mare at Hammond Castle this July and then we go on again for Silver Kingdom Festival in Charlton, MA and yes, we're searching for vendors - but we'll post more information on our other blogs soon about that.
Anyway, sorry I haven't posted in a bit - miss all my friends - hope I get to see you this year, it's been way to long - and yes, we're having another snow storm tonight and tomorrow so be safe in New England kids!
Gvds out
December 22, 2014
Happy ho ho ho and all that jazz - and another fiction piece
This will be my last post for this year. Crazy to think that we're coming to the end of 2014. I lost a lot of good friends this year and I will miss them forever. My book is doing pretty well, and I've met some really great author buddies and learned so much more about what I need to do to promote it.
The faires went well this season, all three of them. Things got hectic, but we couldn't have pulled it off without our fantastic and amazing cast and crew (you know who you are).
I've been more brave about sharing my older short fiction with you all and you've been either kind or really like my short stories, and I've actually got some of my short fiction published in Innovate Magazine (and another one just got published this week) The link is here: Innovate #8
This is another fiction piece, but this time it's based off a real story - my dad's story. I changed the names and I'm not sure if my timing is correct, but I think I'm pretty close.
Here we go - Enjoy!
Train Trio
As I happen to be an Italian Jew and not that any people are aware that there was the Italian part of the Holocaust - This piece is based off of a True story - my dad and his family left Italy when my dad was 7 and my Uncle was 3 with my Nonna (Grandmother in Italian) only to meet my Grandfather in Switzerland somewhere on a train with passports for all three. I'm sure at that time; she had to think quick on her feet as Mussolini was just still in power. This is a "fictionalized version of the truth" since I wasn't there, I am not sure exactly what they were thinking or doing, and this piece will be in Honor of my dad.
Now, mind you, my father and his family had it pretty easy during this time since my Grandfather was at one time a General for the Italian Army (I’m not sure how far up his rank was), and probably knew some people to talk to get his family safely to Switzerland at that time. I realize there were other Jews that were not so lucky and this piece will also be a reminder to their honor and their families.
* A little long even for me*
*Also, this piece will most likely have some light profanity in it to keep with the pace - maybe a little graphic as well**names have been changed to protect my father and my Uncle*
Characters of Train Trio:
Bianca- mother of two little boys
Vincenzo - age 5
Marino - age 3
Rondo - father of same little boys
Conductor Saulnier - Conductor of the Train
Uncle Antonio - Uncle who lives in France
Aunt Lucia - Uncle Antonio's wife
May 1939
Milan, Italy
Bianca -
I was hoping to hear from Rondo, it has been so long. I did not expect this letter today but yet, here I am reading it. I am trying my best not to wake the boys up from their sound sleep, but this letter from Rondo is filled with fear. I can feel myself trying not to cry as I read the line "You must pack everything, take the boys and then take the train in France to meet me June 12th and then meet me in Switzerland. I will be there with Antonio and Lucia to help with the boys, just make sure that you bring your passport for you and the boys. If the conductor asks, you just tell him you are visiting your family." I find myself wiping a tear from my cheek as I hear my name being called by my oldest boy.
"Mama?" The young boy looks so innocent, so young yet so sweet, "Why are you crying mama?"
"It's nothing." I say proudly and as strong as I can be, "Go wake Marino up, we need to talk altogether, and I'll make breakfast."
"Hey Marino, little brother, it is time to wake up!" Vincenzo calls down the hallway "Mama wants us to eat breakfast and talk."
"Mama!" Marino wakes up with a start "Vincenzo woke me up!"
"Yes, well, it is time to wake up, so come downstairs and eat some breakfast with us, melon and eggs, your favorite!" I say loudly folding the letter up neatly and putting it in the drawer.
Marino and Vincenzo came to the table still in pajamas as the eggs start to fry in the pan. I cut up the melon but am still thinking about what Rondo had said in the letter - "Ow!" I cry out loud as I look at my finger that now has a small slice with blood on it.
"Mama!" Vincenzo calls to me, "Are you okay mama?
"Yes, yes, I'm fine" as I wipe my finger off on a kitchen towel knowing that soon I will need to pack all of it up in boxes somewhere. I am not sure how to bring up the fact that we all need to pack our things, our belongings, our valuables, and our life - up in boxes. The eggs are finally cooked well enough and I slice the melon so pink and ripe on the plates for the boys. "Eat up." I say to them wiping another tear from my cheek.
"Mama, why you cry?" Marino still does not seem to have his words right yet.
"It's why are you crying, silly!" Vincenzo does his best to correct him.
I take the letter out of the drawer and unfold it, I know that both boys don't know how to read yet, but they know what a letter is.
"A letter! A letter!" Marino cries.
"Who is it from Mama?" Vincenzo looks over my shoulder out of curiosity.
"It is from your papa who is visiting Uncle Antonio and Aunt Lucia" I say "He writes to say that he loves us, but that we are in terrible danger."
"Danger?" Marino is startled with this new word, he tries his best to announce it, but it comes out Dah Gher.
I decide not to correct him, "Yes, we need to pack up all of our belongings and go on a train to meet Papa in Switzerland. Uncle Antonio and Aunt Lucia will be there too."
Marino drops his fork on the floor, which I usually scold him, I just calmly pick it up and put it in the sink this time around. Vincenzo tries his best to put on a brave smile.
"As long as we're together mama, that's what counts right?" He asks with a sparkle in his eye.
I try not to cry again, and I have nothing else to say but "Right."
Early June 1939
Vincenzo -
Mama will be mad if I can't pack my stuff all by myself, I need to find my red truck. I know I left it there, oh I see it's in the box with all my other toys. Marino needs help too, I should help him, but I need to finish.
"Mama!" I hear Marino my little brother calling down the hall and Mama is on the phone with Papa trying to talk about what time the train is going to be at the station, I run down the hall.
"Shh!!! Mama's on the phone Marino, do you need help?" I ask him trying to be a good boy for Mama. Marino points to his blanket on the bed, "I need my blanket but I can't reach it."
"Oh Marino, yes you can, watch me." I climb up with the step stool in place and grab the dark green blanket. "See, it's not that hard. Now we just need to put it in the box, with all your other toys, okay?"
Marino looks confused, but does as I tell him.
Mama gets off the phone, "What was all the fuss about?"
"Oh, nothing, I helped Marino get his blanket off the bed." I say beaming with pride.
"Good boy Vincenzo, thank you for helping Marino, now go back to packing your own things and I'll help Marino with his, okay?" she smiles but I see tears behind her eyes.
"How's Papa?" I ask.
"Papa is fine, now just go!" she starts to get that voice, I know not to ask any more questions and finish up packing.
Early June 1939-
Bianca -
I do hope we have everything packed and ready, I hope the movers don't break any of our things. The boys at least seem excited; it's more of an adventure for them. I have the passports for the boys and one for myself; I just hope that Rondo remembers what platform I'm supposed to meet him on.
Conductor Saulnier-
Oh these people with the kids! I almost tripped over the bags! "Madam," I say as kindly with my 'conductor voice' as I can, "do you need assistance?"
"Oh yes, please, that would ever be so kind of you." she says looking at her two boys closely making sure they are not getting into further trouble, "Marino, please, stop running, we're about to board the train any minute now."
I help her with her baggage on to the train and help her to her seats with the two young boys. I smile when she gives me a few Francs for my troubles, I know I am not supposed to take it, but I put it in my right pocket for my lunch later on my shift.
Marino-
What fun! The train is so big! I can't believe we are going on this wonderful adventure! A new place! I have heard so much about this new home, I hope that it is as grand as I have been told it is. Mama still looks sad, I try not to pester her, I know that it will make her sadder. I sit in the seat after the Conductor seats us. I want the window seat - wow, look at all these trains! Neat! I poke my big brother in the shoulder, "Vincenzo look at all these trains!"
My brother nods and smiles but looks at Mama to make sure that she is okay. I just keep staring out the window.
Vincenzo
Mama is trying so hard not to cry, I'm afraid of saying anything to her to make her cry. I just keep Marino busy with talking about the trains and our adventure. I know that Papa is at the other end of the train ride and I will be happy to see him again.
Bianca-
We are finally on the train, I wonder when that Conductor will take our tickets, it seems like forever. I wonder if I can get the boys food, or if they are hungry. I completely got so caught up in today, I almost forgot to give the boys breakfast. I thought it would be nice to just eat out at a cafe rather than unpack everything again.
Conductor Saulnier-
"Tickets! Please take out your tickets and Passports please!" I do my fast walk down the aisles. I meet again with the nice lady and her two young boys. "I need your Tickets, please." I say again with a smile to make her at ease, she seems unsure, tense, and a little sad.
The passes me the tickets for all three of them and shows me her passport. I see now why she was so tense. I remember the few Francs that she gave me before.
"I'm visiting family in Switzerland." she says to me as she adds another few francs in my palm.
I nod with understanding, my family had to protect themselves too, what with this Dictator coming into Italy, and no one stood a chance.
"I see." I say, and put the money with my other amount in my right pocket; oh I will have a fine lunch today! Piazza de la Rizzo here I come!
Switzerland - June 12th, 1939
Rondo-
I can see the train approaching, I try not to get too excited or agitated with my brother and sister in law. I tap my brother on the shoulder. "Antonio, here comes the train! We must be swift! We cannot take any chances!"
Antonio just gives me a shrug and says "No worries, my brother! You worry too much! Lucia will handle the boys and you and I will handle the luggage, it's all under control."
Lucia agrees with him, "Yes, Rondo, just be patient, you will see, everyone will be fine."
Bianca-
We approach the final stop, the final destination, our new temporary home until we reach America. I am still unsure about everything, but know that we got here safely with the boys. I see Rondo, Antonio and Lucia at the station and I smile for the first time in what seems like an eternity. I know now that everyone will be okay and we will be together again.
- Fine-
*edited the piece for location - I did check the dates - my dad was born 1932 and was 5 when they left Italy to go to Switzerland. I hope this brings some sort of clarification even though my father (to this day) does not talk about this and if I ask him about it, he tells me it was not as dramatic as I think it was.
Happy Holidays everyone!! Stay safe and see you next year in 2015!
The faires went well this season, all three of them. Things got hectic, but we couldn't have pulled it off without our fantastic and amazing cast and crew (you know who you are).
I've been more brave about sharing my older short fiction with you all and you've been either kind or really like my short stories, and I've actually got some of my short fiction published in Innovate Magazine (and another one just got published this week) The link is here: Innovate #8
This is another fiction piece, but this time it's based off a real story - my dad's story. I changed the names and I'm not sure if my timing is correct, but I think I'm pretty close.
Here we go - Enjoy!
Train Trio
As I happen to be an Italian Jew and not that any people are aware that there was the Italian part of the Holocaust - This piece is based off of a True story - my dad and his family left Italy when my dad was 7 and my Uncle was 3 with my Nonna (Grandmother in Italian) only to meet my Grandfather in Switzerland somewhere on a train with passports for all three. I'm sure at that time; she had to think quick on her feet as Mussolini was just still in power. This is a "fictionalized version of the truth" since I wasn't there, I am not sure exactly what they were thinking or doing, and this piece will be in Honor of my dad.
Now, mind you, my father and his family had it pretty easy during this time since my Grandfather was at one time a General for the Italian Army (I’m not sure how far up his rank was), and probably knew some people to talk to get his family safely to Switzerland at that time. I realize there were other Jews that were not so lucky and this piece will also be a reminder to their honor and their families.
* A little long even for me*
*Also, this piece will most likely have some light profanity in it to keep with the pace - maybe a little graphic as well**names have been changed to protect my father and my Uncle*
Characters of Train Trio:
Bianca- mother of two little boys
Vincenzo - age 5
Marino - age 3
Rondo - father of same little boys
Conductor Saulnier - Conductor of the Train
Uncle Antonio - Uncle who lives in France
Aunt Lucia - Uncle Antonio's wife
May 1939
Milan, Italy
Bianca -
I was hoping to hear from Rondo, it has been so long. I did not expect this letter today but yet, here I am reading it. I am trying my best not to wake the boys up from their sound sleep, but this letter from Rondo is filled with fear. I can feel myself trying not to cry as I read the line "You must pack everything, take the boys and then take the train in France to meet me June 12th and then meet me in Switzerland. I will be there with Antonio and Lucia to help with the boys, just make sure that you bring your passport for you and the boys. If the conductor asks, you just tell him you are visiting your family." I find myself wiping a tear from my cheek as I hear my name being called by my oldest boy.
"Mama?" The young boy looks so innocent, so young yet so sweet, "Why are you crying mama?"
"It's nothing." I say proudly and as strong as I can be, "Go wake Marino up, we need to talk altogether, and I'll make breakfast."
"Hey Marino, little brother, it is time to wake up!" Vincenzo calls down the hallway "Mama wants us to eat breakfast and talk."
"Mama!" Marino wakes up with a start "Vincenzo woke me up!"
"Yes, well, it is time to wake up, so come downstairs and eat some breakfast with us, melon and eggs, your favorite!" I say loudly folding the letter up neatly and putting it in the drawer.
Marino and Vincenzo came to the table still in pajamas as the eggs start to fry in the pan. I cut up the melon but am still thinking about what Rondo had said in the letter - "Ow!" I cry out loud as I look at my finger that now has a small slice with blood on it.
"Mama!" Vincenzo calls to me, "Are you okay mama?
"Yes, yes, I'm fine" as I wipe my finger off on a kitchen towel knowing that soon I will need to pack all of it up in boxes somewhere. I am not sure how to bring up the fact that we all need to pack our things, our belongings, our valuables, and our life - up in boxes. The eggs are finally cooked well enough and I slice the melon so pink and ripe on the plates for the boys. "Eat up." I say to them wiping another tear from my cheek.
"Mama, why you cry?" Marino still does not seem to have his words right yet.
"It's why are you crying, silly!" Vincenzo does his best to correct him.
I take the letter out of the drawer and unfold it, I know that both boys don't know how to read yet, but they know what a letter is.
"A letter! A letter!" Marino cries.
"Who is it from Mama?" Vincenzo looks over my shoulder out of curiosity.
"It is from your papa who is visiting Uncle Antonio and Aunt Lucia" I say "He writes to say that he loves us, but that we are in terrible danger."
"Danger?" Marino is startled with this new word, he tries his best to announce it, but it comes out Dah Gher.
I decide not to correct him, "Yes, we need to pack up all of our belongings and go on a train to meet Papa in Switzerland. Uncle Antonio and Aunt Lucia will be there too."
Marino drops his fork on the floor, which I usually scold him, I just calmly pick it up and put it in the sink this time around. Vincenzo tries his best to put on a brave smile.
"As long as we're together mama, that's what counts right?" He asks with a sparkle in his eye.
I try not to cry again, and I have nothing else to say but "Right."
Early June 1939
Vincenzo -
Mama will be mad if I can't pack my stuff all by myself, I need to find my red truck. I know I left it there, oh I see it's in the box with all my other toys. Marino needs help too, I should help him, but I need to finish.
"Mama!" I hear Marino my little brother calling down the hall and Mama is on the phone with Papa trying to talk about what time the train is going to be at the station, I run down the hall.
"Shh!!! Mama's on the phone Marino, do you need help?" I ask him trying to be a good boy for Mama. Marino points to his blanket on the bed, "I need my blanket but I can't reach it."
"Oh Marino, yes you can, watch me." I climb up with the step stool in place and grab the dark green blanket. "See, it's not that hard. Now we just need to put it in the box, with all your other toys, okay?"
Marino looks confused, but does as I tell him.
Mama gets off the phone, "What was all the fuss about?"
"Oh, nothing, I helped Marino get his blanket off the bed." I say beaming with pride.
"Good boy Vincenzo, thank you for helping Marino, now go back to packing your own things and I'll help Marino with his, okay?" she smiles but I see tears behind her eyes.
"How's Papa?" I ask.
"Papa is fine, now just go!" she starts to get that voice, I know not to ask any more questions and finish up packing.
Early June 1939-
Bianca -
I do hope we have everything packed and ready, I hope the movers don't break any of our things. The boys at least seem excited; it's more of an adventure for them. I have the passports for the boys and one for myself; I just hope that Rondo remembers what platform I'm supposed to meet him on.
Conductor Saulnier-
Oh these people with the kids! I almost tripped over the bags! "Madam," I say as kindly with my 'conductor voice' as I can, "do you need assistance?"
"Oh yes, please, that would ever be so kind of you." she says looking at her two boys closely making sure they are not getting into further trouble, "Marino, please, stop running, we're about to board the train any minute now."
I help her with her baggage on to the train and help her to her seats with the two young boys. I smile when she gives me a few Francs for my troubles, I know I am not supposed to take it, but I put it in my right pocket for my lunch later on my shift.
Marino-
What fun! The train is so big! I can't believe we are going on this wonderful adventure! A new place! I have heard so much about this new home, I hope that it is as grand as I have been told it is. Mama still looks sad, I try not to pester her, I know that it will make her sadder. I sit in the seat after the Conductor seats us. I want the window seat - wow, look at all these trains! Neat! I poke my big brother in the shoulder, "Vincenzo look at all these trains!"
My brother nods and smiles but looks at Mama to make sure that she is okay. I just keep staring out the window.
Vincenzo
Mama is trying so hard not to cry, I'm afraid of saying anything to her to make her cry. I just keep Marino busy with talking about the trains and our adventure. I know that Papa is at the other end of the train ride and I will be happy to see him again.
Bianca-
We are finally on the train, I wonder when that Conductor will take our tickets, it seems like forever. I wonder if I can get the boys food, or if they are hungry. I completely got so caught up in today, I almost forgot to give the boys breakfast. I thought it would be nice to just eat out at a cafe rather than unpack everything again.
Conductor Saulnier-
"Tickets! Please take out your tickets and Passports please!" I do my fast walk down the aisles. I meet again with the nice lady and her two young boys. "I need your Tickets, please." I say again with a smile to make her at ease, she seems unsure, tense, and a little sad.
The passes me the tickets for all three of them and shows me her passport. I see now why she was so tense. I remember the few Francs that she gave me before.
"I'm visiting family in Switzerland." she says to me as she adds another few francs in my palm.
I nod with understanding, my family had to protect themselves too, what with this Dictator coming into Italy, and no one stood a chance.
"I see." I say, and put the money with my other amount in my right pocket; oh I will have a fine lunch today! Piazza de la Rizzo here I come!
Switzerland - June 12th, 1939
Rondo-
I can see the train approaching, I try not to get too excited or agitated with my brother and sister in law. I tap my brother on the shoulder. "Antonio, here comes the train! We must be swift! We cannot take any chances!"
Antonio just gives me a shrug and says "No worries, my brother! You worry too much! Lucia will handle the boys and you and I will handle the luggage, it's all under control."
Lucia agrees with him, "Yes, Rondo, just be patient, you will see, everyone will be fine."
Bianca-
We approach the final stop, the final destination, our new temporary home until we reach America. I am still unsure about everything, but know that we got here safely with the boys. I see Rondo, Antonio and Lucia at the station and I smile for the first time in what seems like an eternity. I know now that everyone will be okay and we will be together again.
- Fine-
*edited the piece for location - I did check the dates - my dad was born 1932 and was 5 when they left Italy to go to Switzerland. I hope this brings some sort of clarification even though my father (to this day) does not talk about this and if I ask him about it, he tells me it was not as dramatic as I think it was.
Happy Holidays everyone!! Stay safe and see you next year in 2015!
December 14, 2014
Gracie's Secret - part of the Virtual Book Tour and my review
Tags/Labels:Children's Books, Children's Fiction, Fiction, Children's Book Author, Lorelie Rozzano, Gracie's Secret, virtual book tour café
Rafflecopter:
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Title: Gracie’sSecret
Author Name: LorelieRozzano
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Author Bio:My name is Lorelie Rozzano and I'm a recovering addict. Seventeenyears ago I took the most difficult walk of my life –through the doors of a local treatment centre. I found in
recovery, what I’dbeen looking for in alcohol and drugs. Finally, my skin fit! I'm anauthor, mother, wife, grandmother, foster parent, sister, familycounsellor and daughter. Growing up in an alcoholic home I understandfirst-hand, the importance of a healthy family. I began working atthe Edgewood Treatment Centre for addiction in 1998 and have had theprivilege of working with both patients and their families. I'mpassionate about helping others whose lives like mine, have beenaffected by addiction. In the past few years I've created a blog,Jagged Little Edges –living in a world of hope, and written three fiction books:
Gracie’s Secret,Jagged Little Edges, and Jagged Little Lies. My hope is that thehonesty found in my books and and on my blog, will help those dealingwith unhealthy behaviours and addiction. After all, I truly believeif I can get clean, anyone can. I'm currently working on book threein the Jagged series
Author Links - The link for any or allof the following...
Website | http://graciessecret.com/">http://graciessecret.com/
Blog | http://jaggedlittleedges.com/">http://jaggedlittleedges.com/
Facebook |https://www.facebook.com/pages/Lorelie-Rozzano/506483446066023?fref=ts">https://www.facebook.com/pages/Lorelie-Rozzano/506483446066023?fref=ts
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Linkedin |http://ca.linkedin.com/pub/lorelie-rozzano/64/282/326">http://ca.linkedin.com/pub/lorelie-rozzano/64/282/326
Goodreads |http://www.goodreads.com/author/show/7022903.Lorelie_Rozzano">http://www.goodreads.com/author/show/7022903.Lorelie_Rozzano
Amazon -http://www.amazon.com/Lorelie-Rozzano/e/B00BG3CPPS/ref=sr_ntt_srch_lnk_3?qid=1410895476&sr=1-3">http://www.amazon.com/Lorelie-Rozzano/e/B00BG3CPPS/ref=sr_ntt_srch_lnk_3?qid=1410895476&sr=1-3
Book Genre: Children’sFicton
Publisher: EdgewoodPublishing
Release Date: July 29,2014
Buy Link(s):http://www.amazon.com/Gracies-Secret-Lorelie-Rozzano/dp/0993740901/ref=sr_1_1?ie=UTF8&qid=1409186470&sr=8-1&keywords=gracies+secret">http://www.amazon.com/Gracies-Secret-Lorelie-Rozzano/dp/0993740901/ref=sr_1_1?ie=UTF8&qid=1409186470&sr=8-1&keywords=gracies+secret
https://www.createspace.com/4842994">https://www.createspace.com/4842994
Book Description:
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Meet Grace. At nine years old she has abig secret. Grace knows first-hand that life can be difficult. Herparents aren't very happy. Their arguing is giving her a stomachache. She spends a lot of time alone, worrying. Are her parentsproblems her fault? Had she done something wrong? Grace pretendseverything is fine, but it's not. She feels helpless and has learnedthat making things up is easier than telling the truth. One bigquestion haunts her every day. Will her family ever be happy again?
This book is perfect for a child with adifficult home life. Divorce, addiction, mental health issues andmore can cause children to feel alone, anxious and afraid. Gracie'sSecret addresses this by showing kids they aren't alone, and thatthey can feel better. With a workbook section for kids to understandtheir own issues and a message that talking to a safe person willhelp, Gracie's story can help kids cope.
Excerpt:
"Grace wished she could takeCameron and run far away. She held him close and hummed, hoping tocover the noise of their parent's yelling so he could fall asleep.
Her stomach was hurting again.
The raised voices below them werejoined by a crash. She plugged her ears.
Her bedroom was so dark she thought itmight swallow her up.
Grace closed her eyes, trying to staycalm as she imagined what was going downstairs. Her eyes blinked backopen, not able to stay closed. She remained upright in bed for mostthe night."
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November 22 - Introduction at http://www.vbtcafe.com/" style="background-color: white; color: #945fc3; line-height: 7.80000019073486px; text-decoration: none;" target="_blank" title="">VBT Café Blog
November 25 - Guest Blogging at http://www.mythicalbooks.blogspot.ro/" style="background-color: white; color: #945fc3; line-height: 7.80000019073486px; text-decoration: none;" target="_blank" title="">Mythical Books
November 27 - Spotlight at http://sarityahalomi.blogspot.com/" style="background-color: white; color: #945fc3; line-height: 7.80000019073486px; text-decoration: none;" target="_blank" title="">Coffee, Books, & Art
November 27 - Guest Blogging at 3 Partners In Shopping - Nana, Mommy, & Sissy Too!
November 27 - Interviewed at http://the-avidreader.blogspot.com/" style="background-color: white; color: #945fc3; line-height: 7.80000019073486px; text-decoration: none;" target="_blank" title="">The Avid Reader
December 2 - Review athttp://www.debbie-jean.com/" style="background-color: white; color: #945fc3; line-height: 7.80000019073486px; text-decoration: none;" title="">Debbie Jean's Blog
December 2 - Review & Interview at http://thebookloverslounge.com/" style="background-color: white; color: #945fc3; line-height: 7.80000019073486px; text-decoration: none;" target="_blank" title="">The Booklovers Lounge
December 4 - Review & Guest Blogging at http://coffeebeanzone.wordpress.com/book-spotlight/" style="background-color: white; color: #945fc3; line-height: 7.80000019073486px; text-decoration: none;" target="_blank" title="">SimpliRead
December 9 - Review & Guest Blogging at http://www.fictionzeal.com/" style="background-color: white; color: #945fc3; line-height: 7.80000019073486px; text-decoration: none;" target="_blank" title="">Fiction Zeal
December 11 - Reviewed at http://www.dealsharingaunt.blogspot.com/" style="background-color: white; color: #945fc3; line-height: 7.80000019073486px; text-decoration: none;" target="_blank" title="">Deal Sharing Aunt
December 13 - Reviewed at http://www.giazzworld.blogspot.com/" style="background-color: white; color: #945fc3; line-height: 7.80000019073486px; text-decoration: none;" target="_blank" title="">Giazz World
December 15 - Reviewed at http://www.pratr.wordpress.com/" style="background-color: white; color: #945fc3; line-height: 7.80000019073486px; text-decoration: none;" target="_blank" title="">Paranormal Romance and Authors That Rock!
December 17 - Reviewed at http://mullenarmyfamily.blogspot.com/" style="background-color: white; color: #945fc3; line-height: 7.80000019073486px; text-decoration: none;" target="_blank" title="">My Life, Loves and Passions
December 19 - Review & Guest Blogging at http://www.teaandabook.com/" style="background-color: white; color: #945fc3; line-height: 7.80000019073486px; text-decoration: none;" target="_blank">Tea and Book
Interview:
1) Please introduce yourself:
My name is Lorelie Rozzano. I am an author, mother, wife, daughter, grandmother, foster parent, counselor, business owner, sister and friend. I live on Vancouver Island, in Canada. My passion is helping others to make the necessary changes to live a happy and healthy life.
2) What is the title of your Picture Book?
Gracie’s Secret.
3) What is your Picture Book about?
Gracie’s Secret is about a nine year old girl who is growing up in a difficult family situation. She feels bad and wonders if her parent’s arguing is her fault.
4) What inspired you to write your Picture Book?
Three children who had lost their mother inspired me to write this book. As adults we often want to spare our children emotional discomfort. Kids who can’t talk about their feelings will develop unhealthy behaviors around them. In the right environment children want to talk about their feelings. When there is tension in the home, kids feel responsible and develop a sense of shame. This book is a great opportunity for families to connect and heal.
5) Did you do the illustrations or did you have someone do it for you?
I did not do the illustrations. My gift is writing, not drawing. The illustrations were done by Natalia Starikova and they are adorable!
6) As far as selling your book, do you have the book in stores or just online?
Gracie’s Secret is in Edgewood’s outpatient offices around Canada and in Seattle. It is also on line at Amazon, Barnes and Noble, and Create Space. If you would like a copy or want to know more about the book, please contact me at 1 800 683-0111.
7) Do you find that parents are getting this book for their children or grandchildren?
Parents and grandparents both are getting this book to read to their children/grandchildren. Many grandparents today play a significant role in the lives of their grandchildren. I've heard that reading this book to their children, is helping the parents too.
8) What makes this book different from other books out there on the marketplace?
This book is not a children’s fairy tale, and that makes it different. Gracie’s Secret deals with the tough issues and topics that children are growing up with, in families across North America.
9) Many children do go through divorce (I know that from personal experience myself), why this topic to discuss?
As a child who grew up in a difficult family situation, I know first-hand the benefit of healthy family systems. Parents can often be distressed and unaware of the impact the families problems are having on their child. Children may exhibit symptoms of family stress by bed wetting, stomach aches, night terrors, acting out, having troubles paying attention in school, bullying, withdrawing and/or experience a general sense of feeling unwell.
10) Plug your book here:
This book is perfect for a child with a difficult home life. Divorce, addiction, mental health issues and more can cause children to feel alone, anxious and afraid. Gracie's Secret addresses this by showing kids they aren't alone, and that they can feel better. With a workbook section for kids to understand their own issues and a message that talking to a safe person will help, Gracie's story can help kids cope.
Please visit my blog for more information. http://www.jaggedlittleedges.com
Review: 3 stars If not anything else, I am honest about what I read and what I decide is okay for kids to read (as I am a parent). I thought that the over all story was pretty good. A little wordy and I got a little confused as to why the character was feeling so sad. It talks about feelings and how to express the feelings even when kids get scared to talk about them. I do like the illustrations and I don't mean to be a jerk here, but you really SHOULD NOT have any copyrighted character in a book even if it is supposed to be a book bag with the character on it. 3 stars
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Title: Gracie’sSecret
Author Name: LorelieRozzano
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Author Bio:My name is Lorelie Rozzano and I'm a recovering addict. Seventeenyears ago I took the most difficult walk of my life –through the doors of a local treatment centre. I found in
recovery, what I’dbeen looking for in alcohol and drugs. Finally, my skin fit! I'm anauthor, mother, wife, grandmother, foster parent, sister, familycounsellor and daughter. Growing up in an alcoholic home I understandfirst-hand, the importance of a healthy family. I began working atthe Edgewood Treatment Centre for addiction in 1998 and have had theprivilege of working with both patients and their families. I'mpassionate about helping others whose lives like mine, have beenaffected by addiction. In the past few years I've created a blog,Jagged Little Edges –living in a world of hope, and written three fiction books:
Gracie’s Secret,Jagged Little Edges, and Jagged Little Lies. My hope is that thehonesty found in my books and and on my blog, will help those dealingwith unhealthy behaviours and addiction. After all, I truly believeif I can get clean, anyone can. I'm currently working on book threein the Jagged series
Author Links - The link for any or allof the following...
Website | http://graciessecret.com/">http://graciessecret.com/
Blog | http://jaggedlittleedges.com/">http://jaggedlittleedges.com/
Facebook |https://www.facebook.com/pages/Lorelie-Rozzano/506483446066023?fref=ts">https://www.facebook.com/pages/Lorelie-Rozzano/506483446066023?fref=ts
Twitterhttps://twitter.com/LorelieRozzano">https://twitter.com/LorelieRozzano
Linkedin |http://ca.linkedin.com/pub/lorelie-rozzano/64/282/326">http://ca.linkedin.com/pub/lorelie-rozzano/64/282/326
Goodreads |http://www.goodreads.com/author/show/7022903.Lorelie_Rozzano">http://www.goodreads.com/author/show/7022903.Lorelie_Rozzano
Amazon -http://www.amazon.com/Lorelie-Rozzano/e/B00BG3CPPS/ref=sr_ntt_srch_lnk_3?qid=1410895476&sr=1-3">http://www.amazon.com/Lorelie-Rozzano/e/B00BG3CPPS/ref=sr_ntt_srch_lnk_3?qid=1410895476&sr=1-3
Book Genre: Children’sFicton
Publisher: EdgewoodPublishing
Release Date: July 29,2014
Buy Link(s):http://www.amazon.com/Gracies-Secret-Lorelie-Rozzano/dp/0993740901/ref=sr_1_1?ie=UTF8&qid=1409186470&sr=8-1&keywords=gracies+secret">http://www.amazon.com/Gracies-Secret-Lorelie-Rozzano/dp/0993740901/ref=sr_1_1?ie=UTF8&qid=1409186470&sr=8-1&keywords=gracies+secret
https://www.createspace.com/4842994">https://www.createspace.com/4842994
Book Description:
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Meet Grace. At nine years old she has abig secret. Grace knows first-hand that life can be difficult. Herparents aren't very happy. Their arguing is giving her a stomachache. She spends a lot of time alone, worrying. Are her parentsproblems her fault? Had she done something wrong? Grace pretendseverything is fine, but it's not. She feels helpless and has learnedthat making things up is easier than telling the truth. One bigquestion haunts her every day. Will her family ever be happy again?
This book is perfect for a child with adifficult home life. Divorce, addiction, mental health issues andmore can cause children to feel alone, anxious and afraid. Gracie'sSecret addresses this by showing kids they aren't alone, and thatthey can feel better. With a workbook section for kids to understandtheir own issues and a message that talking to a safe person willhelp, Gracie's story can help kids cope.
Excerpt:
"Grace wished she could takeCameron and run far away. She held him close and hummed, hoping tocover the noise of their parent's yelling so he could fall asleep.
Her stomach was hurting again.
The raised voices below them werejoined by a crash. She plugged her ears.
Her bedroom was so dark she thought itmight swallow her up.
Grace closed her eyes, trying to staycalm as she imagined what was going downstairs. Her eyes blinked backopen, not able to stay closed. She remained upright in bed for mostthe night."
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November 22 - Introduction at http://www.vbtcafe.com/" style="background-color: white; color: #945fc3; line-height: 7.80000019073486px; text-decoration: none;" target="_blank" title="">VBT Café Blog
November 25 - Guest Blogging at http://www.mythicalbooks.blogspot.ro/" style="background-color: white; color: #945fc3; line-height: 7.80000019073486px; text-decoration: none;" target="_blank" title="">Mythical Books
November 27 - Spotlight at http://sarityahalomi.blogspot.com/" style="background-color: white; color: #945fc3; line-height: 7.80000019073486px; text-decoration: none;" target="_blank" title="">Coffee, Books, & Art
November 27 - Guest Blogging at 3 Partners In Shopping - Nana, Mommy, & Sissy Too!
November 27 - Interviewed at http://the-avidreader.blogspot.com/" style="background-color: white; color: #945fc3; line-height: 7.80000019073486px; text-decoration: none;" target="_blank" title="">The Avid Reader
December 2 - Review athttp://www.debbie-jean.com/" style="background-color: white; color: #945fc3; line-height: 7.80000019073486px; text-decoration: none;" title="">Debbie Jean's Blog
December 2 - Review & Interview at http://thebookloverslounge.com/" style="background-color: white; color: #945fc3; line-height: 7.80000019073486px; text-decoration: none;" target="_blank" title="">The Booklovers Lounge
December 4 - Review & Guest Blogging at http://coffeebeanzone.wordpress.com/book-spotlight/" style="background-color: white; color: #945fc3; line-height: 7.80000019073486px; text-decoration: none;" target="_blank" title="">SimpliRead
December 9 - Review & Guest Blogging at http://www.fictionzeal.com/" style="background-color: white; color: #945fc3; line-height: 7.80000019073486px; text-decoration: none;" target="_blank" title="">Fiction Zeal
December 11 - Reviewed at http://www.dealsharingaunt.blogspot.com/" style="background-color: white; color: #945fc3; line-height: 7.80000019073486px; text-decoration: none;" target="_blank" title="">Deal Sharing Aunt
December 13 - Reviewed at http://www.giazzworld.blogspot.com/" style="background-color: white; color: #945fc3; line-height: 7.80000019073486px; text-decoration: none;" target="_blank" title="">Giazz World
December 15 - Reviewed at http://www.pratr.wordpress.com/" style="background-color: white; color: #945fc3; line-height: 7.80000019073486px; text-decoration: none;" target="_blank" title="">Paranormal Romance and Authors That Rock!
December 17 - Reviewed at http://mullenarmyfamily.blogspot.com/" style="background-color: white; color: #945fc3; line-height: 7.80000019073486px; text-decoration: none;" target="_blank" title="">My Life, Loves and Passions
December 19 - Review & Guest Blogging at http://www.teaandabook.com/" style="background-color: white; color: #945fc3; line-height: 7.80000019073486px; text-decoration: none;" target="_blank">Tea and Book
Interview:
1) Please introduce yourself:
My name is Lorelie Rozzano. I am an author, mother, wife, daughter, grandmother, foster parent, counselor, business owner, sister and friend. I live on Vancouver Island, in Canada. My passion is helping others to make the necessary changes to live a happy and healthy life.
2) What is the title of your Picture Book?
Gracie’s Secret.
3) What is your Picture Book about?
Gracie’s Secret is about a nine year old girl who is growing up in a difficult family situation. She feels bad and wonders if her parent’s arguing is her fault.
4) What inspired you to write your Picture Book?
Three children who had lost their mother inspired me to write this book. As adults we often want to spare our children emotional discomfort. Kids who can’t talk about their feelings will develop unhealthy behaviors around them. In the right environment children want to talk about their feelings. When there is tension in the home, kids feel responsible and develop a sense of shame. This book is a great opportunity for families to connect and heal.
5) Did you do the illustrations or did you have someone do it for you?
I did not do the illustrations. My gift is writing, not drawing. The illustrations were done by Natalia Starikova and they are adorable!
6) As far as selling your book, do you have the book in stores or just online?
Gracie’s Secret is in Edgewood’s outpatient offices around Canada and in Seattle. It is also on line at Amazon, Barnes and Noble, and Create Space. If you would like a copy or want to know more about the book, please contact me at 1 800 683-0111.
7) Do you find that parents are getting this book for their children or grandchildren?
Parents and grandparents both are getting this book to read to their children/grandchildren. Many grandparents today play a significant role in the lives of their grandchildren. I've heard that reading this book to their children, is helping the parents too.
8) What makes this book different from other books out there on the marketplace?
This book is not a children’s fairy tale, and that makes it different. Gracie’s Secret deals with the tough issues and topics that children are growing up with, in families across North America.
9) Many children do go through divorce (I know that from personal experience myself), why this topic to discuss?
As a child who grew up in a difficult family situation, I know first-hand the benefit of healthy family systems. Parents can often be distressed and unaware of the impact the families problems are having on their child. Children may exhibit symptoms of family stress by bed wetting, stomach aches, night terrors, acting out, having troubles paying attention in school, bullying, withdrawing and/or experience a general sense of feeling unwell.
10) Plug your book here:
This book is perfect for a child with a difficult home life. Divorce, addiction, mental health issues and more can cause children to feel alone, anxious and afraid. Gracie's Secret addresses this by showing kids they aren't alone, and that they can feel better. With a workbook section for kids to understand their own issues and a message that talking to a safe person will help, Gracie's story can help kids cope.
Please visit my blog for more information. http://www.jaggedlittleedges.com
Review: 3 stars If not anything else, I am honest about what I read and what I decide is okay for kids to read (as I am a parent). I thought that the over all story was pretty good. A little wordy and I got a little confused as to why the character was feeling so sad. It talks about feelings and how to express the feelings even when kids get scared to talk about them. I do like the illustrations and I don't mean to be a jerk here, but you really SHOULD NOT have any copyrighted character in a book even if it is supposed to be a book bag with the character on it. 3 stars
