1 December 2012 - Creative Kids Tales

Copyright Clancy Tucker (c)

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Quote of the day:

"When I repress my emotions,

my stomach keeps score."

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Creative Kids Tales

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G'day guys,

Today I introduce you to a website that also promotes other creators - Creative Kids Tales - organised by Georgie Donaghey. It's a site that featured me as a guest for August 2012, and today it is celebrating a birthday. So, what is it and what does it do? Let's ask Georgie ...

TELL US A LITTLE ABOUT YOUR WEBSITE’S JOURNEY.

Creative Kids Tales was launched in 2011 with 5 emerging authors on the site.  We are proud to say the list of emerging authors we are helping has grown to 35.  This month we are happy to extend our list to include children’s illustrators.  What started as a ripple is now making waves in the children's writing industry.  In our first year we were invited to be a Partner with the National Year of Reading.  We average 46,000 hits per month and on 1 December we were archived under the National Library's Pandora archives.  Pretty impressive for our first year.

WHAT IS THE AIM OF YOUR WEBSITE? 

We aim to give a voice to emerging children's authors.  Our website contains a complete directory of the services, tools and resources emerging authors need to help them in their writing endeavors. It also gives up and coming authors network opportunities and advice from some of this country’s best professional authors.  Most importantly they have a place to display their work enabling publishers to peruse their submissions at anytime.  Best of all it's free!  We do charge our authors, illustrators or advertisers to be a part of our website.

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WHAT INSPIRED YOU TO CREATE A WEBSITE?

I’m a helper, always have been.  For a few years I ran a local branch of the CBCA.  After it folded I saw a need in the market for a website that promotes emerging children's authors.  I wanted to create a site that provides emerging authors with resources, information and tools to use on their journey to publication.  Basically a one-stop shop.  With a lot of research and dedication Creative Kids Tales was born.

WHAT DO YOU ENJOY MOST ABOUT BEING A WRITER? 

Taking a blank piece of paper and creating an adventure.  Then watching little readers take the journey that I etched out.

WHAT IS THE HARDEST THING ABOUT BEING A WRITER? 

Taking a blank piece of paper and creating that adventure!

WHAT WERE YOU IN A PAST LIFE, BEFORE YOUR WEBSITE?

A dreamer!  Now I live that dream with Creative Kids Tales.  Seriously, I was/am just another writer tapping away at the keyboard searching for the tools we have under one site.

WHAT DO YOU ENJOY MOST ABOUT PROMOTING OTHERS? 

I love watching our emerging authors grow and reach their goal of publication. I love the complete package we offer them.  I love that we can offer the service free of charge.

WHAT ARE YOU WORKING ON AT THE MOMENT? 

Something very exciting, an Australian first!  It will benefit both published and emerging children’s authors.   If I can get it all together it will happen next year.  Just need to get some funding tied up and then it’s all systems go.  Very exciting!  Sorry, that’s all I can tell you for now.  Keep watching this space...

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WHAT INSPIRES YOU? 

My kids are my biggest inspiration.  When a new character comes to life I find little traits in that character that match one of my children’s personalities.  I can't explain it, but when a character comes into my head its like a gift. Together we get to know each other in my head, watching them try on different personalities etc.  Once they blossom I start the writing journey with them.  I only started writing in the children's genre after my son was born 14 years ago.

ARE YOU A WRITER?

Yes.

WHAT GENRE DO YOU WRITE?

Children’s.  Mainly chapter books but have dabbled in a few picture books.  Whenever I get an idea, a workable one, I see where it would best fit.  My first manuscript was actually a murder mystery.  When I read it now I realise the children's genre is a better fit for me but it's fun to revisit your first work sometimes.

DO YOU HAVE ANY TIPS FOR NEW WRITERS? 

Yes, visit Creative Kids Tales!  We have advice from published authors, writing tips, competition information, publisher contacts, loads of emerging authors and now illustrators too.  There is a section called ‘Pitch ya book!’ which gives the opportunity for both mainstream and self published to pitch their book.  We also have a new section for emerging authors to sell their stories to publishers under the ‘Tell us a story’ page.  Everything you need on your journey to publication.

DO YOU SUFFER FROM WRITER’S BLOCK? 

I don’t look at it as writer’s block but I do stumble along the way.  The best thing I find is to be patient and wait for the next character to introduce themselves to me.  Has never been too long, thank heavens!

DO YOU HAVE A PREFERRED WRITING SCHEDULE? 

I wish!  Write when and where I can basically.  Although since starting Creative Kids Tales much of my time is spent interviewing, writing content, marketing and promoting it.  Unfortunately my writing has suffered a little but I love the journey I am on.

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DO YOU HAVE A FAVOURITE WRITING PLACE? 

Somewhere quiet, although with three kids, 14yrs, 6 yrs and 19 months that place no longer exists in my house.  I try to write on the train going to and from my day job.

WHAT IS YOUR GREATEST JOY IN WRITING? 

Creating characters and getting to know them as if they were my children.

WHO IS YOUR FAVOURITE AUTHOR AND WHY? 

I have too many children’s ones to mention.  In the adult genre I like to escape with James Patterson.  His Alex Cross series has had my attention since Along Came A Spider.  Nothing like relaxing with a little murder mystery J

WHAT’S THE GREATEST COMPLIMENT YOU EVER RECEIVED FROM A READER OF YOUR WEBSITE? 

Probably the best comments I have had have been the encouraging words from the professional authors I have interviewed such as, Jackie French, Mem Fox, Andy Griffiths, Deborah Abela to name a few.  To hear them say they wished my site had been around when they were starting out is very flattering.  It cements the fact we are on the right track and making a difference in emerging author’s journeys.  It’s a great feeling.

WHAT WAS THE WORST COMMENT FROM A READER?

I haven’t had one so far.

WRITERS ARE SOMETIMES INFLUENCED BY THINGS THAT HAPPEN IN THEIR OWN LIVES. ARE YOU? 

Yes, the character I created for my son experienced bullying at school just as my son did.  I turned those bullies into evil characters in the book and had fun watching as the hero of the story defeated them and came out stronger for it.  Just as my son did in his life.

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OTHER THAN WRITING, WHAT ELSE DO YOU LOVE? 

My kids are my life.  I love playing hairdressers with my girls, having a conversation with my teenage son when we are not yelling at each other, spending time with my husband.  I enjoy pottering around the garden, a few story ideas have developed with battling some big weeds.  Last but not least reading.

IF YOU HAD AN OPPORTUNITY TO SPEAK TO THE ENTIRE WORLD, WHAT WOULD YOU SAY?  Embrace emerging authors, especially local authors.  We want to ensure future generations enjoy stories from their own backyard and not have to rely just on overseas authors to fuel their imaginations.  Also, don’t let printed publications be taken over completely by the digital age.  There is nothing more exciting than hiding under a blanket with a torch and reading a new adventure.  Kids need that excitement.

DESCRIBE YOUR PERFECT DAY. 

Morning cuddle with the kids and then write, write and write.  Bedtime cuddle and write some more.  Now if I could only figure out a way to have the housework fairies stop by for a little cleaning that would be great.

WHAT ARE YOUR GREATEST ASSETS AS A WRITER? 

My characters and how they choose me to tell their story.  I love every part of the process from that exciting first stage of feeling like you standing on a cliff top, the wind blowing gently on your face and not knowing what will happen next.  To that first meeting and walking alongside them as they tell you their story.  I couldn’t imagine not being a writer.

IF YOU WERE STUCK ON A DESERT ISLAND WITH ONE PERSON, WHO WOULD YOU LIKE IT TO BE? WHY?

Clint Eastwood.  He is a gifted storyteller, director, Hollywood legend and a gentleman.  I think the stories he could tell would melt away the hours and forget the fact that I was on an island.

WHAT ARE YOUR PLANS FOR THE FUTURE? 

To be able to bring all the exciting ideas I have for Creative Kids Tales to fruition.  I have lots of them.

Thanks Clancy Tucker for allowing me to share a little of myself on your blog.  I look forward to meeting your readers at Creative Kids Tales.

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Clancy's comment: Wow, happy birthday to CKT!

I'm ...

23 November 2012 - Writers' Web - Guest Blog

Copyright Clancy Tucker (c)

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Quote of the day:

"All truths are easy to understand once they are discovered;

the point is to discover them."

Galileo

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WRITERS' WEB

- GUEST BLOG

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G'day guys,

Today I introduce a guest blog that has featured yours truly and others - Writers' Web. I've always found the site gurus to be most helpful. What does it do? Writers' Web connects writers direct to their reading audience, allows emerging Australian writers to have their work read and  places the book directly into the hands of potential purchasers - the reader.

Emma Mactaggart is half of the creative team behind writers’ web, an online platform where Australian writers become authors by having their work read and reviewed.  She is also Creative Director, Boogie Books (small press boutique publisher) and Founder of the Child Writes program.  Her award winning book; Child Writes: Creating a Children’s Book is Child’s Play underpins the program.  Welcome, Emma. How did it all begin?

TELL US A LITTLE ABOUT YOUR BLOG’S JOURNEY.

 With a flash of brilliance (and then two years of planning and a year in practice) writers’ web emerged.  It’s single goal was to bring writers and readers together – allowing the reader to be the gatekeeper, rather than the publisher, and the writer to be the author by sharing their words.  Kind of like a farmers markets for words, with the paddock to plate; or a dating service where you get to choose your best match, not someone else tell you who you should date!

 WHAT IS THE AIM OF YOUR BLOG?

 The blogs for writers’ web are the conversation we wanted to have.  They are supposed to be informative, newsy, entertaining and timely.  Probably a bit too ambitious to have all criteria ticked off for each blog – but we certainly do seem to hit this over a month.  It has been a wonderful medium to practice putting one word after another, especially if my own projects have stalled.

 The ultimate aim?  To continue a conversation between readers and writers, allowing them to be one community, rather than the two entities which has been the case for a long time.  Whilst writers are the most accessible ‘celebrities’ I know; they are often not far from their desk working.  The odd insight at a writer’s festival or a workshop is one thing – a lovely chatty conversation is another and it is much warmer.

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WHAT INSPIRED YOU TO CREATE A BLOG?

We actually planned to include a blog as part of our conversation when we were designing the business model for writers’ web.   The conversation was to be much like life; where there are pearls of wisdom are offered at the checkout, information sharing when you make a quick call to a friend, or getting to know someone better over a superbly long lunch.  Hence Twitter, FaceBook and the Blog.

 WHAT DO YOU ENJOY MOST ABOUT BEING A WRITER?

 What I find totally exhilarating is seeing what is in my head on paper!  These thoughts have gently swirled around, first in a jumble and at a distance, slowly getting closer and closer, clearer and clearer.  Then the marks appear on paper and I can share this without making a sound.  (If I had practiced drawing instead of learning to touch type, I believe I would have been an artist!)

 WHAT IS THE HARDEST THING ABOUT BEING A WRITER?

 Making the world stop for long enough so I can really let ideas brew and then boil and bubble before needing screen time.  I seem to produce work in two stages – the first, ideas like lightning bolts are created whenever I am in a physical situation where friction is created (and I don’t mean friction in a negative way, rather, that when there are two or more people in a conversation, the brainstorming for me creates these ideas).  Then, I need quiet time (impossible sometimes!) to let the idea become clearer and more substantial.

 WHAT WERE YOU IN A PAST LIFE, BEFORE YOUR BLOG?

 The same as I am in a present life, though now with the blog, I am just a little busier.  Incredulously, I look at the clock in the evenings and am simply amazed another day has past.   Aside from constantly beating the drum for writers’ web, I have been working with children, taking them all the way through the picture book creation process; from manufacturing ideas, through writing and illustrating, all the way to publishing agreements and book launches!   This program is called Child Writes.

 I am constantly fascinated by watching aspiring authors and what is their starting point.  If they are struggling, either socially, physically or mentally, for example, their stories focus on trying to find solutions for their struggling characters.  If they are incredibly secure, loved, supported, their imaginations are more outrageous and their characters have a greater opportunity to explore some really interesting adventures!

 As the children write stories, they sometimes crystallise something they have been trying to understand and I am sure this is what contributes to an increase in their self efficacy.  Well, that and actually working so incredibly hard and achieving the impossible – a 32 page picture book written and illustrated and published in less than a year!!!

 WHAT DO YOU ENJOY MOST ABOUT PROMOTING OTHERS?

 Ironically, I find promoting others is incredibly self rewarding.  There is an energy generated when you work with someone or are positive about someone else.  There is often reciprocation, not necessarily instantaneously, but it does eventually happen.

 Besides, it is so boring talking about yourself!

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WHAT ARE YOU WORKING ON AT THE MOMENT?

 I get so excited about the end of the school year – no, not school holidays, not having children filling every corner at home, nor NOT packing lunchboxes and dealing with the grind – it liberates me from Child Writes for a moment.  The classroom tuition ceases, the training finished, the books done and dusted and printed, so they are under Christmas trees ready for gleeful grandparents and spoilt cousins.

 I have already dug out of the bottom drawer (where it has been brewing for five years) a first draft of a YA novel.  I wrote 60000 words in 60 days (before I learnt of The Rabbit Hole by Queensland Writers Centre or Nanowrimo, which is National Novel Writing Month).  It was painful at times, exhilarating at others – but the words are there.  Editing hundreds of beautifully raw children’s picture book manuscripts as well as attending countless workshops on writing and editing has certainly given me the courage to grasp my editors pen with two hands and attach the manuscript.

 (Besides, like a gold fish, I can’t really remember what I did yesterday, so reading this will be like reading someone else’s work.  How exciting to be removed emotionally – FINALLY!)

 WHAT INSPIRES YOU?

 Outcomes and results.  This is why I cry at book launches!  I know exactly what has gone into the process of creating this simple looking object – a book.   It is equally fascinating how that single moment seems to be so definitive, because it is about increasing your self-efficacy, it is about stepping off and finally feeling strong enough to share you work...

 ARE YOU A WRITER?

 Yes indeed I am.  The last time I travelled (did I tell you about New York?) I wrote ‘WRITER’ as my occupation.  I also self describe myself as a writer on census forms, taxation documentation,  and any other forms, regardless if they are from the doctor or the local hairdresser.     I can actually remember the transition from not acknowledging myself as a writer to doing so and what transpired.  When I wrote that YA manuscript, I wasn’t a writer.   As soon as I described myself as a writer, others did!   I get such a buzz when they do, though the pendulum may be swinging the other way... I was with a friend, embellishing an incident which had happened earlier in the day.  My children were in earshot of the conversation.  One rolled her eyes and said, ‘Oh Mum.  That so didn’t happen like that.  You made that up.  You are such a writer.’

 WHAT GENRE DO YOU WRITE?

 I love writing children’s books.  The audience are the toughest, sharpest, most ruthless readers (and listeners!)  If you miss a beat, your rhythm is off or your character has any traits deemed unbelievable, then it is over!   Your words will be dismissed.

 My favourite project though, is seeing the extraordinary personal journey which is watching someone conceive an idea, get the words on paper and then see it in print.  The book is such a comfortable concept for many of us – yet it seems so inaccessible.

 If only people realised how easy it is to create using this medium...

 You are an expert at something if you do it 10,000 times.  Global skills, like drawing and driving mean proficiency is only acquired with practice, practice, practice.  In writerly terms, this would mean someone like Kim Wilkins (pens also as Kimberley Freeman) with 2 million words in print has probably already spent 10,000 hours putting one word in front of or after another word... Think about that!

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Copyright Gavan Rowe 2012 (c)

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DO YOU HAVE ANY TIPS FOR NEW WRITERS?

 As much as I would love to share tips, I am still absorbing tips first hand!  The most poignant one for me right now which is genuinely making a difference to my day is to share your writing.  Find a family member, a good friend; send them something, anything, often.  Clutching a manuscript, looking furtively to the left and to the right, assuming someone is going to steal the principle idea and take your story... Well, it just ain’t gonna happen.   Get a project off your desk and out there, and start the next one.   It is the only way to learn.

 Oh, and look in the mirror and say to yourself ‘I am a writer’.

 The creative process is akin to discovering an interesting rock on the side of a creek.  It is covered in mud and moss, but for some reason it attracts you.  You give it a rinse in the river, paring it down to mere rock.   Even the initial colour which caught your eye has changed.  The shape is fascinating, it sits will in your hand.  You keep hold of it, but stretch your arm out, ‘look’, giving the person next to you a glimpse.  You go to rinse it again, but you drop it and to you chagrin, it breaks.   As you pick up the pieces, you discover one side has this beautiful crystal structure within it.   You don’t even notice you have discarded the bulk of the stone.  You simply can’t help yourself – on this side, one piece is protruding and you firmly grasp it between two fingers.  Pull.  It separates.  You hold it up to the sun and the light refracts through and the person beside you gasps and asks for a look, and then the person behind them leans over their shoulder, interested, curious, reaching for their turn...

 It is only now that you acknowledge it as a treasure – yet it was a treasure all along!

 DO YOU SUFFER FROM WRITER’S BLOCK?

 No, but I do suffer from ‘far out, is anyone going to be interested’ block.  It is ridiculous.  I talk and talk (and talk) when I am with people – am opinionated at the best of time and am not renown for my tact.  Yet when it comes to paper – I honestly think no-one will be interested in reading it.

 DO YOU HAVE A PREFERRED WRITING SCHEDULE?

 My best solutions, ideas, thoughts are all generated at about 2.30am in the morning.   I need to give over to this and simply get out of bed, type madly until the energy ebbs and then go back to sleep.

This probably comes from being so easily distracted, so it is the only way I get any words on paper!  Right now, for example, as the kitchen heaves still with the breakfast plates now crawling up the walls because of that insidious combination of high temperatures and the remnants of soggy cereal and milk... I am thinking about the 60 books which still need to be constructed (yes, I am the little bugger’s Child Writes graphic designer as well!) and instead... I am having a lovely time writing to you!

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Copyright Clancy Tucker (c)

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DO YOU HAVE A FAVOURITE WRITING PLACE?

 When I am on a roll, at home, with a full screen, a supersized keyboard and a large chair which I can cross my legs up upon!  When I am creating a character who is in desperate need of some attributes, or a conversation which is wilting, I go to the cafe near my husband’s office.  Here, eventually, I will see or hear what I need!

 WHAT IS YOUR GREATEST JOY IN WRITING?

 Giving something of myself to others.

 WHO IS YOUR FAVOURITE AUTHOR AND WHY?

 Augusten Burroughs.  Even though he writes of his own torrid, tawdry childhood, his prose are so intensely beautiful, that just like an object of beauty, they should simply be stared at!  He makes me laugh and he makes me cry, but most importantly, he makes me think – not about him, but about myself and my reactions to his thoughts and actions and of those around him.

 WHAT’S THE GREATEST COMPLIMENT YOU EVER RECEIVED FROM A READER OF YOUR BLOG?

 I actually received a text yesterday...   ‘wonderful clever inspiring woman, I loved reading ur piece on writers’ web, what a journey of reading, discovery and understanding.’  It was from a childhood friend – does that count!

 WHAT WAS THE WORST COMMENT FROM A READER?

 I am steeling myself for that... It is yet to come!  Once a student commented in on an evaluation form  ‘She waves her hands around too much and uses too many words.’  I am ready for anything from a blog reader – I have been working with ruthless children who can sniff out a weakness before you know you have one!

 WRITERS ARE SOMETIMES INFLUENCED BY THINGS THAT HAPPEN IN THEIR OWN LIVES. ARE YOU?

 The day a very good friend of mine said (in the context of an event we were collaborating on), ‘Here, you have to do this, you’re the writer,’ and I looked up, startled, because this was the first time I had ever heard the words aloud!

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OTHER THAN WRITING, WHAT ELSE DO YOU LOVE?

 A long lunch with girlfriends – especially those friends that are like donning your favourite slippers; comfortable and immediately induce as state of relaxation!  In this environment, I can gain a little perspective on my other loves (Dave and the girls!) and how I am managing the entire juggling act.  I also plan, sound out problems and deal with the micro insecurities which can stymie my writing.

 IF YOU HAD AN OPPORTUNITY TO SPEAK TO THE ENTIRE WORLD, WHAT WOULD YOU SAY?

 Ladies and gentleman, children all.  Thank you so much for this incredible opportunity to share my thoughts with you tonight. 

 I must say though, it is time I listened...

 WHAT ARE YOUR GREATEST ASSETS AS A WRITER?

  * That I genuinely believe an ‘overnight’ success is someone who has put in those 10,000 hours or ten years...

*   That since missing eligibility for the Vogel Award (I am a long way South now of 35 BTW!) the imperative to finish a project has now gone...

*    The ‘I couldn’t give a .... age is nearly upon me (see above), so there goes the pretence!

*    I have a talent for bringing out the talent in others... (I just had an epiphany) Soooo If I treated my characters like I treat others I work with, I just might be able to bring out the best in them...

 IF YOU WERE STUCK ON A DESERT ISLAND WITH ONE PERSON, WHO WOULD YOU LIKE IT TO BE? WHY?

 Haruki Murakami.   He is impossibly creative so you could pretend you were anywhere.  Plus, he wouldn’t ever run out of bedtime stories!

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 WHAT ARE YOUR PLANS FOR THE FUTURE?

Today, my to-do list looks like this:

 Finish this and send to Clancy!

Check the edit on the student manual  and the tutor manual for Child Writes;

Continue building books for the 2012 graduates of Child Writes (I am up to 29/63!);

Send one book to web designer – he can convert the inDesign file into one which is compatible to the iTunes store in less than ten minutes

Go through the writers’ web emails AGAIN – there are three new authors ready to have their profiles loaded, books set up for preview

Buy a birthday present for Sarah to take to a party this afternoon

Meet with inDesign guru 5.15pm for training session

 Tomorrow?  I will see what I do or don’ t get done today!

 WHAT FIVE BOOKS WOULD YOU TAKE TO HEAVEN?

 Jitterbug Perfume Tom Robbins

The Windup Bird Chronicle (my first read of Murakami’s work)

The Fountainhead Ayn Rand – as my eyes start getting tired, it would take an eternity to read the small print version again!

The Elegance of a Hedgehog by Muriel Barbery

A Dictionary!

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www.writersweb.com.au

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www.childwrites.com.au

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Clancy's comment: Wow! I told you Writers' Web was good. How switched on is that? So, to all aspiring, emerging and published writers, check out Writers' Web. Love ya work, guys! - CT.

I'm ...

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11 September 2012 - Wonderworld - Guest Blog

Copyright - Clancy Tucker (c)

Quote of the day:

"Everybody wants to go to heaven

but nobody wants to die."

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WONDERWORLD - GUEST BLOG

WONDERWORLD

G'day guys,

Today I am featuring a guest blog - Wonderworld. Why, because I reckon they do a great job to promote independent authors.  WONDERWORLD - promotes and features Author Spotlights and Book Features of brilliant indie authors. They have featured one of my books with great panache, and I am grateful to them. We all know that the biggest challenge for a writer is to get your name out there - your brand. This blog site is very professional, easy to use and the team are excellent to deal with.

Check out how they highlighted and promoted one of my books:

Award Winning book: Gunnedah Hero by Clancy Tucker

Ebook & paperback: GUNNEDAH HERO 

Awards: Won two awards in the Australian National Literary Awards
Genre : Fiction, Young adult , Action -Adventure, Coming of Age
Author : Clancy Tucker

Author Website-buy this book at : http://clancytucker.com.au/buy.php

Amazon Author page : http://www.amazon.com/Clancy-Tucker/e/B005MLO7QA

Goodreads page: http://www.goodreads.com/book/show/13447986-gunnedah-hero

Amazon Store: http://www.amazon.com/Gunnedah-Hero-ebook/dp/B0076E8URI

Smashwords Store :  http://www.smashwords.com/books/view/114638

Other bookstores : http://www.morrispublishingaustralia.com/gunnedah-hero.html

ISBN :  978 0 646 56847 8 (Ebook) and 976 0 646 55733 5 (Paperback)
Reviews :  Multiple quality reviews


BLURB : Fourteen-year-old Gunnedah ‘Gunnie’ Danson has a 500-word assignment on drought. His late grandfather has left him a box containing a manuscript. It’s been written by Gunnie’s great-great-grandfather, Smokey ‘Gun’ Danson after his journey up the long paddock during a harsh drought as a fourteen-year-old drover in 1910.

At the back of the manuscript is an envelope. It’s NOT to be opened until Gunnie has read the entire story. Gunnie spends the weekend at Wiralee Station; a cattle station that’s been in the family since 1848. There, he reads the awesome manuscript and learns of Smokey’s adventurous journey.

Gunnie overhears several secretive conversations. His snobby Aunty Kate wants to divorce his uncle and sell Wiralee Station. He finishes the manuscript and opens the mysterious envelope. Will it legally prevent his aunt from selling Wiralee Station?

Links  to ‘GUNNEDAH HERO’ – REVIEWS

*** BUZZ WORDS MAGAZINE *** Top book review http://buzzwordsmagazine.blogspot.com.au/2012/01/gunnedah-hero.html

“I loved It! I couldn’t put it down and it is full of wonderful characters; stories and sub-stories that are so interesting it’s like reading the Arabian nights. One story leads to another then another and it goes on, linking to something else just as extraordinary. The peripheral happenings are as magnetic as the main goings on. Fantastic! You’re on a winner. Good luck. It deserves to be noticed.”
“Gunnedah Hero is a book that will be remembered long after its reading. This is a perfectly crafted, exceptionally well-written book which has been self-published. It comes highly recommended by the reviewer.”
Anastasia Gonis - Book Reviewer for ‘Buzz Words’ – January 2012.

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Other top rated ‘GUNNEDAH HERO’ – REVIEWS

“There is much to learn and appreciate in this novel. There are references to bush lore, bush tucker and medicines, the wild life, the value of the Bulletin, the postal services, the country courts, all windows into life one hundred years ago. Though most names and some places are fictional, quite a few places are not and can be found via the Internet, including Gunnedah which still has its memorial to the murdered miners. There is a glossary of terms, a family tree in this absorbing family history, and a website for reader interaction. This is a valuable read for ages 10 and over, in fact for all ages. JDA”
Book review in CBCA magazine, ‘Reading Time’, February 2012 Vol 56, No 1. John Adams – Book reviewer – CBCA -
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‘Clancy, what a great book. So typically Australian, a great bush story, of mateship, overcoming hardship, courage, love, and triumph. Never a dull moment, and makes you want to read on with every chapter. Full of compassion, and warm hearted moments, the reader is not infrequently in tears filled with real emotion.’  
Doctor Judith O’Malley-Ford, MBBS (Qld), MPH, JP (Qual), FRACGP, Author of ‘The Australian Medical Dictionary’.
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“Wow! What a story. I loved it. It wasn’t a book I would normally pick up to read, but it was a book I couldn’t put down. Smokey was my fave, I found that I didn’t keep reading to see what was in the envelope, I kept reading because loved being on the journey with Smokey. I want the sequel now haha. Fntastic, really. I came to work with bleary eyes on numerous occasions because I stayed up late to read, unable to put it down. Thanks so much for giving me a copy.’
Tammy Lovett, Editor, Alexandra Standard, Yea Chronicle.
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 ‘I loved the story. I found the plot believable and the characters authentic. The structure of parallel narrators works well, particularly because both boys are a similar age and have the same standards or principles. You have the very successful formula of the kids showing just how capable they are in the absence of adults, plus a few “baddies” to test or push them a little further.’ 
Geri Coughlan – Head Librarian, Trinity College, Melbourne.
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‘Clancy Tucker is a great writer and has produced a magnificent yarn for everyone to enjoy. A delightful story that had me hooked right from the start. Clancy’s way of writing takes you right into the pages of the book, making you feel very much part of it ... you will find that once you start reading, you will want to continue, without interruption, until you’ve reached the end. This is a heart warming, well written story that will transport you to another era and back again, bringing with it lessons you can use in your own life today. You won’t be disappointed ... it would make a great film. I would strongly recommend this book, it will leave an impression.’
Deb Cullen – UK author – book reviewer
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‘Read Gunnedah Hero while I was away. I really appreciated the realism and the mammoth amount of research that must’ve gone into it. I also liked the way the book alternates between current day and 1910. Using naming the foal as a common thread throughout the current-day story was a master stroke. As Gunnie would say, love ya work. Thank you so much for sharing it with me. Wishing you every success with it.’
Vicki Tyley – author.
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‘I’ve finished your book. I thoroughly enjoyed it, and found the story very believable. Have done a lot of bush camping over the years so could relate to the life. As to what was in the envelope? Well – proof that the property could not be sold as long as a family member was living on the property – BRILLIANT! Congratulations – it is a really good read.’
Jean Laws – editor ‘Eyes and Ears’.
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‘It’s a beautiful story, Clancy, filled with likeable, enduring characters. It deserves to be in print. I loved the finish and how you wrapped it up. It all came together beautifully – and that goes for both periods. You’re an excellent storyteller so there was never any need to slash and burn. I LOVE the back and forth of the Gunnie / Smokey timeframes. I reckon it works really well and adds a truly original element to the story. It also works for the suspense – especially now Gunnie has the dilemma of his aunt’s phone call. It’s good to keep readers on edge and there’s no shortage of action and drama in your writing.’ 
Julie Jay, ‘Rebus Press’ – Editor & author.
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“When I read this Gunnedah Hero, I think of you. I have a feeling that I read something so personal, so precious to the heart, so sentimental ... I haven't finished reading your story yet, but I want to tell you that I love this story and it should be read by the Australian in schools, and the citizen of the world like me and other young adults. You are a very proud Aussie. I love this.” 
Anchansiri Sriyananda – Bangkok, Thailand – former senior Thai diplomat.
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‘This is a brilliant book in the ilk of ‘Diary of a Welsh Swagman’, a book my grandmother gave me as a girl, about a man walking the district I grew up in. This book showed, as does Smokey’s story, how tough life could be, and just how much could be achieved with very little.’
Jill Smith – Author ‘Dual Visions’ – book reviewer.
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‘My local librarian complained to me that there are not enough books for boys. She said the libraries are always looking for a great adventure story that will appeal to the young male members. Well, she can’t go past this one. This is a wonderful coming of age story for boys ... it is cleverly written and is a heart warming and enjoyable read that will appeal to more than the child and young adult audience it is targeting. I became totally lost in the bush settings and the lives of the two main protagonists and felt like I was there with them. It has been favourably acclaimed by many notable people. You and your children will love this book. What makes a great historical novel for kids? This man has the key to that genre.’
Elaine Ouston – Author, editor and publisher – Morris Publishing Australia.
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I have received and read your book! I liked it and was touched. I will tell my publishers about it. The content is of course very Australian, but you never know.
Geri Brandjes, senior editor, The Netherlands, May 2012.
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Thank you for your patience while I had your manuscript assessed. I really enjoyed the read, and was captivated by the characters you had created. It is a great story.  I have no doubt you will have success in placing this book outside of Australia. It’s a great story, and it’s written well. I personally enjoyed it.
Tina Chou, Peony Literary Agency, Shanghai, China
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Links to the Author's Interviews, Reviews and Magazines where GUNNEDAH HERO has been featured and discussed:

Morris Publishing Australia - eBook publisher :  http://www.morrispublishingaustralia.com/clancy-tucker---author.html

Writers Web : http://writersweb.com.au/authors/clancy-tucker/

LinkedIn : http://www.linkedin.com/pub/clancy-tucker/42/72/156

The Write Life - interview : http://carolwarner.wordpress.com/tag/clancy-tucker/

Helen Ross Writes - interview : http://misshelenwrites.wordpress.com/2012/01/24/interview-with-clancy-tucker

Authors Australia :  http://www.authorsaustralia.org/our-members#clancy-tucker

Buzz Words : http://buzzwordsmagazine.blogspot.com.au/2012/01/writing-historical-fiction-gunnedah.html

New South Wales Writers' Centre book review - Australia : http://clancytucker.com.au/book-reviews.php

Sheryl Gwyther - interview : http://sherylgwyther.wordpress.com/2012/01/20/blog-tour-australian-author-clancy-tucker/

Creative Kids Tales - review : http://www.creativekidstales.com.au/authors/emerging-authors/clancy-tucker/clancy-tucker.html

Kids Book Review :  http://www.kids-bookreview.com/2012/01/blog-tour-gunnedah-hero-by-clancy.html

Kids Book Capers - interview :  http://content.boomerangbooks.com.au/kids-book-capers-blog/tag/clancy-tucker

Wonderworld link:  'Gunnedah Hero' 

Wonderworld accept submissions in the following book genres to feature and promote in this blog and multiple social media portals : (Except Ebooks with controversial topics or pro-anti religious beliefs)

Romance (No Erotica)
Thrillers, Mysteries
Urban Fantasy, dystopian
Vampire/Werewolves (No Erotica)
Horror (No Gore)
Comedy , Humor
Contemporary Fiction
Fantasy, Historical Fantasy
Science Fiction
Young Adult, Coming of Age
Literary Fiction and Classic Literature
Memoirs and Biography
Drama
Historical Fiction
Children's Books
Western
Non Fiction
Inspirational and Motivational
Short Stories
Poetry (Except controversial, religion based - pro or anti)

Wonderworld does not accept the following Ebook genres :

Erotica
Non-fiction on politics and other controversial topics
Excessive violence (Abuse/Domestic violence/too much gore) and explicit novels
Political fiction
Zombie
Religion based fiction or beliefs (pro-anti)
New Age

Wonderworld will not accept Ebook details and cover images (including Erotica) portrayed on an Ebook cover, graphic novel or any other Ebook that has controversy in it , is controversial or acts as a hate message to any culture or race of people.

Clancy's comment: Give them a go! WONDERWORLD

I'm Clancy Tucker.