Books

Here are two of a bunch of great books I can heartily recommend for reading. These are written by Christians for the science fiction, fantasy, and speculative genres. Check here for reviews and more books and how to buy them.

Story Writing and Inspirational Freebies

This is a subject dear to my heart, of late. Writing. Here are some interesting sites to visit on the topic:

*Fantasy and SF Name Generators (Fantasy Character Name Generators, Fantasy Place Name Generators, Science Fiction Name Generator, Villain Name Generator, SF McGuffin Generator (sort of like the ultimate story item-Flux Capasitors, etc)-find all these links at Where the Map Ends. Very cool and a great way to spark your childs imagination (and yours too). (all-some links off site may need parental guidance)

*CSFF Blog Tour has a list of Christian authors in the fantasy fiction/science fiction genres. Check out there blogs, read some of their writings, see what's available for your kids (and you) to read. especially check out Tessa Edwards, a young budding author with lots of stories to read on her blog.(Note:Many of these blogs have tips on how to write and what to expect as a writer) Also see my writing blog Quest Writer.(teens and adults)

*Dragons, Knights and Angels is an online magazine (Christian fantasy/science/speculative fiction) where you can read or submit writing.(teens and adults) (*Note: They have a contest, open as of the 20th, with a $60 cash first prize, plus publication, plus some software goodies from Jeff Gerke.-Thanks Mirtika for the info)

*Faith Writers is a place to read and exercise your own writing. (all)

*The Copyright Symbol Webpage-find out about copywriting and add a symbol to your writing.(all)

*Critters Workshop- a great place to learn how to critique/edit writing. Anyone can do it here, within their guideline. You can also submit work to be editied-for free. A great site. (Teens and adults)

*Story Starters (kids)

* Neat facts about kid authors http://www.realkids.com/authors.shtml

*Young Writers' Clubhouse- a bit of everything here (kids)

*Index to Children's Book Authors & Illustrators

*Open Directory - Kids and Teens: School Time: English: Writing (ABC's of writing for all ages)

Sooo, check these out and start writing:)

Reading Freebies

*Did you know that Home Educators (that means you, mom and dad) can get a free Teacher's library card? This enables you to take out books for 6 weeks instead of the usual 3 weeks. VHS and DVD are only able to be borrowed for 3 weeks.

On the topic of reading, check out these freebies of the week:

*This site will allow you to read books online-many different languages available Read Books Here.
*The Home School Mom has provided a directory of online Christian books.
* This site, Reading A-Z, provides online reading and categorized according to level.
* Free Christian Audio Books provides the teen/adult listener with some great options to hear.
*Clearwater Press offers podcasts of a really interesting book, Runt the Brave. This one has really caught my eye!
Also, see my Quest Writer blog for info and links to more great reads and buys!


As always, please preview this material and make sure it is fit for your family. Enjoy!