Review: ‘Tis the Seasons: Poems for Your Holiday Spirit edited by J.K. Larkin

Posted on November 22, 2021 by Debbie

*****5 stars

This holiday poetry anthology is part of the Red Penguin collection of books edited by J.K. Larkin. It contains 36 poems by various authors that reflect the wonder, joy, and nostalgia of the holiday season. Some poems are funny; others are sad, but they all deal with holiday feelings and experiences.

Some of my favorite poems include David Lange’s “Needle in the Corner,” a poem with a sad twist; J.S. Manino’s “Thrill Before Christmas” which is a clever takeoff of Michael Jackson’s “Thriller” song; Lisa Diaz Meyer’s “Merry Christmas Eve (Grandpa’s Walk); Linda Trott Dickman’s “Still Proceeding”; the funny “A Kiss Under the Mistletoe” by Gary S. Watkins; and two poems that deal with the pandemic: “A Pandemic Christmas” by Meldoy Lipford and “Bright Nights” by Kathryn Sadakierski. My short poem “Advent” is also featured.

I can heartily recommend this collection to get you into the holiday spirit. It’s available as a paperback or eBook and also free for Kindle Unlimited Subscribers. Pick up a copy at https://amzn.to/30QiuvO.

Cats, Cover Reveal

Cover Reveal: Meows and Purrs: A Collection of Cat Poems (includes a Sample Poem)

Posted on August 11, 2021August 13, 2021 by Debbie

I’m proud to announce the cover for my new poetry book of cat poems.

Here is a sample poem from the collection:

TWO CATS ARE BETTER THAN ONE

Double the trouble,

double the fun.

Two cats are better than one.

When you look to adopt a kitten,

ask for a sibling or two.

It’s the best thing you can do.

You’ll never regret taking another.

They’ll grow up as friends and play together.

Don’t worry about the litter pans.

They’ll share one box of sand.

No cat food will go to waste.

Just pick up a case.

Make room on your bed and under the covers.

You’ll never be lonely with one or the other.

Double the charm,

double the love.

Two cats are better than one.

If you open your heart to two fur babies,

You’ll know it’s the best things you’ve done

because two cats are better than one.

Purchase Link: http://mybook.to/mapddl

author news, events

August Book and Event News

Posted on August 1, 2021August 1, 2021 by Debbie

I hope you’re all enjoying your summers. I’ve been working on some writing projects and taking day trips as well as planning a longer one soon. I’ve cut back on a few promos this month but I do have a few things scheduled.

On August 26 at 7 pm EST, I’ll be moderating and participating in a pet author panel with other members of the Cat Writers’ Association for my library’s summer reading program event. Since it will take place virtually in Zoom, anyone can attend. Click here to register.

I’m also happy to announce that my cat book of poetry, “Meows and Purrs: A Collection of Cat Poems” has been accepted by Next Chapter Publishing. While there is not release date yet, it should be out soon. Below is a sample poem from the book. The cover image may not be the final one for the published copy.