The first reviews for Time Meddlers Undercover are out:
" . . . this is an enthralling story that will have middle grade readers turning the page to find out what risky situations Matt and Sarah will place themselves in next. Information about the English spy network and the Dutch resistance add historical context to the story, and readers are even introduced to famed diarist, Anne Frank. Also included are an Historical Note which outlines some of the facts revealed in Jackson's research for the story, and discussion questions and activities for reader groups."
Canadian Teacher Magazine
http://www.canadianteachermagazine.com/pdf/CTM_Jan10_Book_Reviews.pdf
"*****Five Stars! This is a great time travel thriller with a super surprising final twist. The story line is fast-paced and loaded with action . . . Deborah Jackson interweaves the Dutch resistance to the German occupation especially hiding Jews like Anne Frank and her family and other targeted people from the Nazis as a key element in the strong plot. Middle school readers and anyone who read or saw The Diary of Anne Frank (except Holocaust deniers) will enjoy this fine sequel to the Time Meddlers as courage is an equal opportunity trait that ignores religion, ethnic origin, age and gender."
Genre Go Round Reviews
http://www.genregoroundreviews.blogspot.com/2010/01/time-meddlers-undercover-deborah.html
"****Four Stars! This book continues shortly after the first, Time Meddlers, ends. You do not have to read the first book in order to understand and enjoy this one; however, I strongly urge you to. It gives more details on the time machine and backgrounds on the teens. As for this story, it overflows with danger, excitement, and adventure. Readers will easily connect with Matt and Sarah. . . . An enthralling story that readers will have a difficult time putting down."
Huntress Reviews
http://www.huntressreviews.com/allkids.htm
If you're interested in upcoming courses at Shenkman Arts Centre, here is some basic information:
A Novel Idea (Adult)--Fiction Writing, 10 classes, 2 1/2 hours per class. Sharpen your writing skills and learn how to submit your manuscripts for publication. From Hemingway to Tolkien, brainstorming, character, plot, setting, dialogue, editing/revision, queries and synopses. Course structure: lecture and critique.
Spring session will be open for registration soon: http://shenkmanarts.ca/course_workshops_camps/sac_en.html#P178_8010
A Novel Idea II (Adult)--Fiction Writing, 10 classes, 2 1/2 hours per class. A Novel Idea recommended prior to taking this course. Improve writing skills with intensive critique sessions/feedback, writing exercises focus on character development, setting, dialogue, fresh language, show vs. tell, active vs. passive writing skills.
To begin in the fall. Private classes are sometimes held.
Fiction Writing--The Basics and Beyond (Ages 11- 14) Learn the basics of story writing from an author--idea, setting, character, plot, dialogue, conflict, etc.--while developing your own unique voice. Complete a story or the beginning of a novel with step-by-step guidance.
To begin in the fall.
