Promo codes for The Swan Bonnet are still available, both US and UK. Message at The Swan Bonnet Facebook page.
During
the lockdown period, I've released another audiobook, Josiah's Apple
Orchard, narrated by Lyndsay Paulina. I enjoyed working on this
middle grade book again while it was a bit comforting during the
lockdown. The apple-picking in the book is at the orchard of an old
man who is isolated and under a stress that his visitors don't
realize. The book is loosely based on childhood experiences. It also
covers a year of national shock, John F. Kennedy's assassination.
From the perspectives of young people, the book made a parallel with
2020. There is also the fascination and relief of music for the main
character, Vivvy. Josiah's Apple Orchard is available at Audible, Amazon, and iTunes.
Lyndsay Paulina, the narrator, captures the middle grade atmosphere. In the book, Vivvy and Matt would like some adventure. Her reading has the humor and vitality that children will identify with, yet it adjusts for the mood levels that develop. Lyndsay has narration, stage, and musical acting experience besides stage work with puppetry. She lives in New York City where she is also a licensed tour guide. Her website is: lyndsaycrescenti.com
Here is the synopsis for Josiah's Apple Orchard:
Besides music, Vivvy loves green apples. She and her brother Matt go on morning apple raids until, one fall, their father drives them to a pick-your-own orchard. There, the cross old Josiah inhabits another time where pixies might appear like uprooted saplings. During the early, eventful 1960s, Vivvy takes the flute from Mr. Fortray, a band teacher who plays jazz. Another apple picking trip is confused with detours and Josiah is angry about progress. Vivvy finds that if she wants to do what she loves, she must think beyond a fear that her father and Josiah share.
"The story takes young readers on a journey...The surreal feel of the book is captivating and enthralling. A very original and refreshing plot that will make readers think." - Readers' Favorite five-star review.
The weekend setting in this book typifies the organic farm or the vanishing small farm, what were both so common in the 1960's. It is an introduction to a specialty farm and the grower's commitment and struggle in keeping such a farm afloat.
Until this year, I've bought apples at a local Farmer's Market where, in recent years, I've vacillated
between Zestar, Pink Lady, Haralson, and Honeycrisp – all
delicious. As still are the Jonathans and Mcintoshes.
US and UK promo codes for Josiah's Apple Orchard are available to reviewers! Message at the Josiah's Apple Orchard Facebook page.
