Children's Poetry

Say It In Rhyme

Mollie Wilson "Duck Tape"

Farmington, CT

Duck Tape is a tale of a shy, lonely duck who finds love, fun and total happiness on his lake when he discovers a roll of duct tape. The tape winds through the book in colorful illustrations by award winning illustrator Toby Mikle. Mikle captures the essence of the tale in bright, simple illustrations. Duck Tape is an easy reader book in bright blue lettering done in rhyme which is sure to be a bedtime favorite. The whole family will enjoy this tale of fun and love written by award winning author, Mollie Wilson. This is her second children's book. Rhyme Time, her first book, is also available through Authorhouse.

Short Stories

A Short Story Author Joins the Group

Lynne K. Cote "The Long Road"

Guilford, CT

The Long Road sets thirteen stories in a world too often less than kind. A world which includes Butte, Montana and New York’s Hudson River Valley, a Manhattan apartment and a Florida airport, a small college town in Pennsylvania and a hospice in New England. The characters—given a visual translation by artist Raffael DiLauro—are affluent and poor, young and older, black and white, married and widowed, immigrant and long bred American. For some, their regrets and the burden of their haunting histories are too great; but more often Cote allows for hope, for the everyday of carrying-on. Her twists and turns, and surprise, add a suspense to both ordinary and extraordinary circumstances; and carefully crafted, layered metaphors — as exemplified in the cover story of a man and a woman, and a dog and a kitten, walking the long road to divorce — bring a surreal quality to this debut collection.

Non-Fiction Books

Meet Some Non-Fiction Authors Who Will

Be At the Big E in September.

Technology

Dan Uitti "Keep Your Computer Alive"

Oakville, CT

Keep Your Computer Alive illustrates the need and tips for proper computer maintenance. The book is great for first timers, as well as people that have had computers for years, but are just now catching up with the latest problems like Spam, Viruses, SpyWare. The book illustrates the need for proper backups, surge protection. There are many tips, as well as a dictionary and set of thought provoking suggestions on why maintenance is important. Illustrated by Ted Hudson







True Crime

Shirley Bostrom "Funny - He Doesn't Look Like A Burderer (But Margie is Dead)



Marlborough, CT


It is estimated that three women are murdered by their husbands or boyfriends in the U.S. each day. If you believe this doesn't happen in middle-class, educated families you need to read this book.Shirley Pierce Bostrom shares her family's head-on collision with the tragic results of domestic violence with eloquence and stunning honesty. It was in 1996 that her daughter, Dr. Margaret E. Bostrom was stabbed to death by her husband.The book deals with Margie's tragic death, but also the family's dealings with the criminal justice system, their struggle to regain a normal life, and their growth into powerful advocates against domestic violence. With an introduction by David Kaczynski, brother to the Uni-bomber, Ted Kaczynski.




Biography

Ursula McCafferty
"Home is the Sailor, Home from the Sea"

Canaan, CT


Sail around the world on a sailing ship in 1898, spend WWI in a Prisoner Of War camp in Australia and dodge submarine Wolf Packs in WWII. Captain Erich Richter did it all.



History

Dan Uitti, "A Brief History of Lionism in Connecticut"

Oakville, CT

A Brief History of Lionism in Connecticut takes look at the Lions Clubs in this New England state and their service to the community. This collection of stories includes work within each community, as well as a number of examples of service worldwide. This includes eyeglass collections, eye research, low vision clinics, disaster relief following the Katrina Hurricane, an Ophthalmology Mission outside of the USA and the Opening Eyes program. 164 clubs in this state of 159 cities and towns submitted their story for this book.

The original edition of the A Brief History of Lionism in Connecticut was published nearly 25 years ago. This current collection of Lions information and colorful descriptions of Lions activities within the Multiple District far exceeds the scope of the 1983 edition. Not only is there a multitude of Lions facts and figures requested by so many of our members, the font used in this edition is larger and therefore easier to read.

This publication also includes a numerous personal observations bringing to life the importance of Lionism within Connecticut and throughout the world. Facts and figures are of abundance as the book includes information useful not only to the leadership but to all Lions Club members.

Robert & Fred Kerson "Sacred Stones Sacred Stories"

New Haven, CT

Design of the Urim and Thummim - found ! Ancient survey solves temple location on Temple Mount. Mesada surveyed by ancient Jewish system. The Rock on Temple Mount was shaped by using string. Hezekiah's Tunnel surveying explains mystery of construction. Ancient breastplate can explain a number of bible stories. Sacred words in four alphabets draw out sacred pictures. Kabbah holds proof of Temple's Location. Dome of Rock centered over Table in Holy Place. A single thread runs through three world religions. Psalms were edited by discovered pattern. King Herod's designated burial site shown by survey. Temple originally measured from Golgotha Rock




Consumer Protection
Cynthia Bercowetz "Don't Get Ripped Off!"

Bloomfield, CT
Cynthia Bercowetz's book, Don't Get ripped Off! Get Help! Tell it to George, reveals how to avoid identity theft, scams, con artists, bogus contests, and paying outrageous prices for anything!


Education


Carol Keeney "Brand New Teacher"

Monroe, CT

A technique exists that allows a new teacher to handle a classroom like an experienced teacher would, and manage discipline successfully. Inexperience—not the teacher, is the cause for unnecessary discipline challenges in the classroom. Advice from colleagues, though well intentioned, can't substitute for experience, and that is why it doesn't work for the new teacher. Novice teachers must find out for themselves what works and that takes time. This technique empowers teachers to gain skills uniquely suited for them, instead of spending years using trial and error methods to get results. By practicing and applying simple exercises, teachers can transform their careers into satisfying experiences and end discipline challenges in the classroom, now.

History & Adventure

Writing Historical & Adventure Fiction Is What These Authors Do

Gimple Lee "The Lost Prophets"
Derby, CT


Derby resident, Tim Conlon, recently published a book titled The Lost Prophets under the pen name of Gimpel Lee. The novel is a historical fiction set in the Naugatuck Valley and New York prior to the holiday season.









Roger Lee Crossland "Jade Rooster"
Fairfield, CT

China, Japan, Korea, and the Philippines of 1913 may be unfamiliar historic or geographical venues for a complex, nautical mystery, but Jade Rooster acclimates itself and showcases a solid, captivating flair for gripping, detailed, exhilarating fiction.

The author wields a unique literary sword, with minimal feints, within an intricate labyrinth of clues and barrels of fascinating data, naval and cultural. Descriptions by clothing, language, and character of heroes (clever, intuitive Quartermaster Hobson, his buddies Oyster Pirate, Tiger Cheng, buck dancer Jackson), simpatico mudangs (shamans), and various high- and low-lifes alike, are flawless. Action and script, occasionally horrific with everything from severed heads to sperm whale intestines "up or down current like scuttlebutt," is contextually appropriate.

Crossland's pirates/bandits/opportunists, in name or demeanor, are more Pirates of the Caribbean than the Mikado/ Penzance variety, but Wallace Beery, Popeye Doyle, Steve McQueen, and Orlando Bloom would blend-in with a theme song from Puccini by the Grateful Dead. After story-integrated brain teasing, tantalizing event and name dropping illusions, the author amiably serves up a summation of historical facts to help readers cull out the fictions.

Jay R. Worsham "Florida Freeze"
Kensington, CT


A flying Ford Mustang? When the government's latest secret weapon is stolen, agent Rick Fortune must recover it before it falls into the hands of the terrorist group Sword of Allah. Greed, betrayal and bad food plague Rick and rival agent Monique Mechante as they chase the car across South Florida and the African nation of Tambuta. And there is Rick's little problem. He is still a virgin, but is hoping that Monique will help him to ... well, you know. His plan might work, but only if they survive.

Young Adult Books

Meet the Authors of Young Adult Books

Jean Marie Rusin "Night of Terror"

New Britain, CT

At some point, you have to let go and trust your kids to take care of themselves-what's the worst that can happen.Right? So, when Tom and his wife leave their daughters to fend for themselves while they go out for nice dinner alone, their worst fear is that girls will burn their pizza rolls, or eat too much junk food. It's not what the girls are eating that should have them worried - but what might eat them.... Liz and Janet and Kelly think their biggest problem will be getting along with each other and keeping themselves amused, but when their dog "Lucky" begins barking furiously at the window, they get their first clue that this night may harbor something sinister, Little do they know the night of terror which lies ahead of them. Now with the Police on a manhunt for killer cannibals and a freak chemical spill in the area, the forces of horror are about to descend upon the town. Unimaginable nightmares are gathering on the streets . Eerie sounds- and far-off screams give the girls scant warning that they are in for the night - and the fight- of their lives. Fan of horror will turn a new page of action, adventure and terror as author Jean Rusin treats them to her grisly take on "home alone"in her newest tale "Night of Terror"! Lock your doors, turn on the night light and pray that you live to see the morning sun...

Carroll Thomas "Matty's War"

Farmington, CT


"MATTY'S coming!" Neely shouts as the train roars into Farmington. Sixteen-year-old Matty Trescott has just arrived from Kansas to live with relatives in Connecticut. It's Christmas 1863 and far to the south, the Civil War is raging. For Neely, though, the big news is that she and her cousin, Matty, will soon be off to school in Hartford. But unbeknownst to Neely, Matty has other plans... Matty's War is based on the life of one of the 400 women who fought in the Union Army while disguised as men.

Children's Books

Meet Connecticut Children's Book Authors

Cynthia Bercowetz
"Grandpa Herman's Petting Zoo"

Bloomfield, CT

A true story about animals at a former petting zoo at COPACO in Bloomfield, I will have a local farm bring over some of the animals that were similar to the ones in the book. They will be outside on our lawn.



Frances Gilbert "To Know The Sea"

Trumbull, CT


Far away in a mountain kingdom lives Isola, a little princess who longs for the sea. "No one from here has ever BEEN to the sea!" laughed her sisters, the royal advisors, and the ladies of the court. "It's ridiculous, impossible...forget about it!"







Elizabeth Faragher
"Off To The Fair"

Avon, CT

Join Megan Elizabeth on her visit to a country fair with her parents. In her discovery of the sights and sounds of the fair, she finds that she is reluctant to ride a pony. She unexpectedly makes a new friend and learns a valuable lesson.

Doreen Tango Hampton "I Like Gum"

Litchfield, CT

A rhyming picturebook recounting a young girl's likes and dislikes. The enthusiastic bordering on outrageous art emphasizes the sense of whimsy and pure fun that comes from the gleeful lyrics. "I like ice cream. But not in the sun. And not on my shirt. And not when it's done." A truly fun read-aloud book for parents and children, with simple text ideal for young people just learning how to sound out words on their own.


Buck Kalinowski "Cupid's Secret"

Wolcott, CT

Here is a beautiful, meaningful story you’ll want to read to your kids or grandkids, over and over again. Buck Kalinowski has given us a children’s book that not only amuses, it tells a story of love and compassion, and teaches a lesson of hope and enlightenment.

Cupid’s Secret is about an abused horse that nobody wanted. Farmer Buck saw her at a horse auction, small and sickly. He pushed aside her straggly mane and discovered a perfectly-shaped white heart right in the middle of her forehead. Farmer Buck’s heart went out to this frightened creature and even though he didn’t need another horse, he bought her and took her home.

The children at the farm named her Cupid because of the white heart and it was close to Valentine’s Day. The children started to train this lovable mare and with courage and determination, Cupid went on to win the blue ribbon at a horse show. Cupid then decided it was time to share her secret. She told Thunder (the horse in the next stall), “I’m in foal and will soon be delivering my baby.”

In a transformation of this horse’s self worth, she gives birth to a colt that carries another unique mark that paves the way for his future. You see, the colt had a perfectly shaped arrow on his rump, as perfect as his Mom’s heart. Cupid’s Secret is a delightful story of love, trust and prayer.

Janet Lawler
"A Father's Song"

Farmington, CT

How do fathers show their love? Usually, with a lot of activity! It is those special, fun-filled moments that I wanted to capture with this story. The warm and lively illustrations of Lucy Corvino are a wonderful complement to the text of A FATHER'S SONG.

Join in as a father and child romp in the park – going on the slide, playing tag together, roaring like bears, and splashing in the water. And what dad hasn't flown their child around “like an airplane that swoops…making wide loop-de-loops?”

This book celebrates the universal love that fathers share in very special ways with their children. It makes a great everyday gift for a special youngster, and a wonderful gift for Dad from a child.

Linda Machado
"How Harwinton Got His Middle Name"

Meriden, CT

Harwinton Bear and his friend, Bumper Rabbit, live peacefully in The Dark Forest until a terrible fire destroys their homes and separates them from their families. Believing their families escaped the fire, the two friends set out to find them. Their long, sometimes difficult journey leads the two through many adventures and to a surprise, faith-building conclusion.

Glenn Shapiro - Author
Ben Quesnel - Illustrator
"Sarah Walked To School"

Windsor, CT

Sarah awakes for the first day of school and declares her intention to walk to school alone..

Lorraine Strenkowski
"How Tall Is a Giant?"

Lebanon, CT

"How tall is a giant? Have you ever asked yourself? Find out how author Lorraine Strenkowski answers this simple childhood question.

So many times children create fearful images in their minds, and in their rooms; all the while forgetting the difference between pretend and reality.

"How Tall Is A Giant?" encourages the young reader to change scary into silly, negative into positive, and enforces the concepts of imagination and pretend.

With vivid illustrations, this engaging story reminds us all of the simple phrase 'mind over matter.' "

Mystery & Suspense Authors

Meet these Mystery & Suspense Authors

at the CAPA Booth
in the Connecticut Building

Frances Gilbert "Where Is She Now?"

Trumbull, CT

Rosemary wants only to feel the calm promised in the hymns of her childhood, she wants to 'lay down her burden and enter in.' Cradling her green pocket book wrapped in an old green shawl, she wanders through her daily life with her husband Brian, her traumatized self, and her alter ego, the bossy and competent Anna. Something has happened in the past, centering on her baby, but Rosemary can't quite remember what it was. And where is the baby now?

As she oscillates between rational and delusional spells she seeks validation and support from the inanimate objects around her, the cups on the shelf, the knobs on the bedposts, the books in the bookcase, and the houses lining the streets. In her conversations with them we see a Rosemary who is not quite as deranged as she seems, and a Brian, not quite as supportive as he would like to have you believe.

The book is set in a fictional amalgam of two small English towns.

Rosemary Harris "Pushing Up Daisies"

Stamford, CT

Thirtyish former television exec Paula Holliday relocates from New York City to sleepy Springfield, CT, determined to turn her passion for gardening into a new, less stressful career.

When an eccentric spinster dies, her landmark property is left to the local Historical Society, and Paula sees the garden’s restoration as a way to get her fledgling business off the ground. She’s prepared for everything, but not for the mummified baby she digs up her first day on the job. After a cursory investigation, the local police decide it’s an old secret, not a recent crime, so they drop the matter, but . . . Paula’s not so sure.

Casual snooping turns serious when someone is impaled on a garden tool and one of Paula’s helpers is arrested for the crime. Aided by the still-hot aging rocker who owns the local greasy spoon, a Shakespeare-quoting massage therapist, and a handsome Mexican laborer with a few secrets of his own, Paula unearths more dirt the suburban town has kept buried.

Rounding out the cast, and among the suspects, a randy Congressman and his gin-swigging mother, an amoral newspaper reporter, an octogenarian ladies’ man, childhood sweethearts reunited after 50 years, and a tattooed lady you wouldn’t want to mess with.

Jerry Labriola, MD

"The Strange Death of Napoleon Bonaparte"

Naugatuck, CT

American historian and international treasure hunter, Paul D’Arneau, fired from his lofty university position, is commissioned by the Parisian Gens de Vérité to determine if Napoleon was murdered. If so, how and by whom? Excursions to the islands of Elba and St. Helena reveal more than Paul bargained for. What takes him to a French monastery? To Volterraio Castle? How does the Mob know of his every move? Where do arsenic and DNA fit in? Or the mysterious Lady Beckett? Despite deadly skirmishes and long odds for success, what convinces him to press on?

The Strange Death of Napoleon Bonaparte is that rare suspense novel that entertains, enlightens and provokes, with a story line bolstered by slices of authentic history––and by a fair share of forensics, too. Even before reaching its stunning climax, the reader cannot help but wonder about what other things may have been lost or distorted in the sweep of that history.

Carole Shmurak "Deadmistress"

Farmington, CT

Sabena Lazlo, the headmistress of a posh private school for girls has been found brutally murdered in her office. When professor and educational consultant Susan Lombardi learns that her close friend John has been accused of the crime, she wastes no time setting out to clear his name. While doing so she uncovers some troubling secrets about the school’s faculty and staff, and it soon becomes clear that John is definitely not the only one with a motive for murdering the “deadmistress.”

Deadmistress is the first book in a series featuring Dr. Susan Lombardi, a 40ish professor of education at Metropolitan State University, in Albion, Connecticut. Deadmistress is a lighthearted, traditional mystery with a murder in a close-knit community in which almost everyone has a motive for wanting the demise of the victim. Its heroine is part of a long tradition of academic sleuths.

Terry Finello - "Absolute Vengeance"

Burlington, CT

Prominent real estate broker and investment councilor, David Portsmith, is found dead in the hotel room where he has just made love to his mistress, Elaine Morris. Feeling honor-bound to conceal her affair with the victim and protect his reputation, Elaine must now investigate the murder, without jeopardizing her career or her relationship with John 'Clay' Claymore. Conspiracy, intrigue and deception surround the ever-growing list of suspects.

If you are a fan of crime drama, detective stories and exceptional mysteries, where the plot twists and the characters captivate, then ABSOLUTE VENGEANCE is one book you won’t want to put down.