New Release - Coming Soon Archives

Happy June 2025, everyone!

About those June Bugs, maybe not the real “June Bugs.” Yuck! I know they are helpful to our environment (sorry June Bugs), but lots of little delays kept happening with my new book, which is starting to not be so funny. Most of these delays were my fault. I proofed and proofed, gaining five copies which won’t be used…well, not yet. That’s another story for another post. A few of those delays happened in the shipping process. Again, another story for another day.

I have to add, to the June Bug’s defense, despite often being considered a nuisance, they do play a beneficial role in our environment. Yes, I had to look it up. They are also called “May Beetles,” and serve as a food source for various animals, they help our soil, and they improve water tunnels for root growth for plants. This helps with our lawn and agricultural crops. I found all of that very interesting and I hope to not be so hard on them in the furture…maybe, ha!

All this scientific information made me want to call Merrie and get her thoughts on that. Who’s Merrie? If you have followed along on my writing journey these past eleven years, you know she is one of the triplets from my Maggie, Millie, and Merrie series. Oops, I think I just gave you a clue what characters are in my new book!

I will no longer add picture books for them because the triplets have grown up! They are twelve years old now and ready to move on to a new Middle Grade adventure.

I have a few more things to do to get it ready for you. Please keep watching as I’ll reveal more news about that here very soon! I’m so excited!

Meanwhile, Let’s Talk About Summer! Yay!

The weather is warming up, and I can’t tell you how much our Midwesterners enjoy that. February is still too recent a memory, with the cold and snow we received that month. High cold winds, a lot of snow, with everything closing up here in KCMO. Phew, we didn’t see that coming! Don’t get me wrong, I do love the winter months when my hubby has a cozy fire going and we have warm meals to look forward to.

So around here, summer means lots of time outside, grilling out, and, of course, baseball. Baseball may mean a lot of different things to different people, but to this family, it means everything and has for thirty- something years. ⚾️๋

Other than outdoorsy things, I have and will spend some of my time inside cleaning, doing some art, while listening to audiobooks. These are a few of my favorite things, maybe not the cleaning part. Ha! Audiobooks do make the time go fast. I love the new earphones my son bought me last year. ⋆｡°🎧ྀི.⊹ ⋆ Give it a try if you haven’t already.

What are your plans for the summer? Please leave us a comment in the section below.

Goodreads Challenge 2025

I’ve been able to get in some good reading this past month. My current challenge stands at 22 out of 50 for my goal this year.

I gave all these 5 stars.

Non-Fiction

“Your Brain on Art: How the Arts Transform Us,” by Susan Magsmen and Ivy Ross

Your Brain On Art - How to Transform Us by Susan Magsamen and Ivy Ross

I read the first half of this book and then went for the audiobook and I’m so glad I did.

I loved learning about the world of “Neuroaesthetics!” This book explores how our brains and bodies change when we dive into the arts—and why that’s a big deal for our health, happiness, and the way we connect with each other.

Susan Magsamen and Ivy Ross explains how like painting, dancing, writing, and even viewing architecture are actually super important for our everyday lives and well-being.

Just spending forty-five minutes on an art project can lower your stress hormones, even if you are a beginner. One art experience a month, it could actually can add years to your life! Looking at art is beneficial as actually doing art. Doctors are even recommending museum visits to help with issues like loneliness, dementia, and other physical and mental health challenges.

I really enjoyed this book and I recommend to others to read, as well.

Middle Grade and Up Books

“Odder,” by Katherine Applegate.

“Odder,” by Katherine Applegate. There are many narrators worth mentioning here : Alison Fraser, Yuuki Luna, Angel Pean, Nancy Wu, Amanda Carlin, and Adenrele Ojo.

About Odder, the Queen of Play!

What a sweet story this was to listen to on audiobook from our local library.

Readers will love Otter as she plays around by the coast of California with her fun underwater moves in which she is famous for. Her curiosity gets her in trouble with a great white shark. Her wild encounter pushes her to her limits and will have to have help from humans who will fall in love with her. The humans, especially those working at the Monterey Bay Aquarium, see Odder as a charismatic and unique creature, begin to bond with her.

This book is based on the true story of a program at the Monterey Bay Aquarium that matches orphaned otter pups with surrogate moms. There is a lot of information to learn when readers root for Otter.

“Wishtree,” by Kathrine Applegate and narrated by Nancy Linari

I have to admit, I read this book years ago. (Yes, you can re-read books for the Goodreads Challenge.)

When I saw this was in audiobook, I knew I wanted to read/listen to it again.

Red’s is an awesome old oak tree that’s been around for ages. Everyone knows Red as the neighborhood’s “Wishtree”—people love to write their wishes on little pieces of cloth and hang them on her branches. Along with Red’s buddy Bongo, the crow and a bunch of other animal characters who chill in her cozy hollows, Red keeps a watchful eye over the whole neighborhood.

You could say Red has been through it all. When a new family moves in, things get interesting. Not everyone’s rolling out the welcome mat, so Red’s has to step up and put those “Wishtree” skills to good use!

Fun facts are learned in the sweet, touching story, too.

Art Books

“Watercolor Fairy Art: Rules for Making the Best Art Eve,” by Sara Burrier

I’ve been working with watercolors lately so when I saw this art book, I loved how the colors popped and come to life on each page. The instructions are a fun way to capture the charming and whimsical world of fairies!

Sara Burrier she teaches artists how to use the magic of watercolor! With step-by-steps handy tips and tricks, I’m excited to give some of these a try.

“Draw Great Characters and Creatures: 75 Art Exercises for Comics and Animation,” by Beverley Johnson

Learn how to make unique characters with these 75 exercises for all skill levels, including beginners. Another step-by-step on how to add shapes; personalities; facial expressions; body language; character interaction; and even costuming.

My favorite part of this book? It is made for those who have never drawn before. Again, I’m excited to try some of these lessons out.

Recipe Book

“Missouri Comfort,” by Porcshe Moran

“Missouri Comfort,” by Porcshe Moran, is a recipe book featuring many of the famous restaurants in Missouri, many I had not heard of.
I liked reading the “behind the scenes” on how some of these places got started.
This book would make a nice gift for those living in the Midwest.

Currently reading/listening to:

“The Business of Being a Writer,” by author Jane Friedman

All I can say about this book for now? Wow! Authors, you all will want to look into this book. It’s packed with a ton of information and is a keeper. Review coming next month.

Tell Us About You!

What are your summer plans?

Any new projects you’d like to tell us about?

Enjoy your June 2025, everyone!

I hope you enjoy all the beautiful flowers, butterflies, and catch the sights and sounds of nature’s amazing creatures this summer…yes, even, “June Bugs.” 😉

Happy June 2025!
("Beasley and Friends to the Rescue.") ~Rosie Russell

As always,

Happy Reading!

Rosie

In case you missed last month’s post, you can check it out here. ►“Something New is Blooming at Books by Rose”

Here’s Something New at Books by Rose.

I’m releasing my 16th book title in the coming months! Woohoo! This one is different from my children’s picture books. It’s a chapter book for Middle-Grade readers, which I’ve had a blast writing. It has been a real learning curve. Believe it or not, I’ve enjoyed the challenge.

I’m excited for you all to read it.

When I do my book launch, I’m doing it differently this time. Instead of running it from my Books by Rose Facebook page, I’ll run it from my website ► h ere. (Kidlit Blog by Rosie)

Yes, of course, I will announce it on Facebook to guide you to this page. If you haven’t already subscribed to my website, now is the perfect time to do so. You will receive my updates in your emails. Feel free to unsubscribe at any time. Don’t worry, I won’t bombard your emails after the launch, or anytime. I usually send out bookish blog posts once a month. With that being said, I am thinking of adding a new section to my page, which will not be bookish news. (So, you may get two posts from me each month, at the most.) We’ll see how things go.

Anyone want to guess what that page might be?

Keep watching for announcements these next few months.

Speaking of My Book Titles…

I just celebrated eleven years writing books at “Books by Rose.”

It all started with a book I wrote about our sons and the fun they had growing up.

Click here to read ► “Avi and Jackson Best Friends.”

Thanks to my fans, friends, and family for your support and encouragement over the years. I could not have done this without YOU! ❤️

April 05, 2025 – KC Book Beat

Here’s something I found in KCMO. An authors’ group which supports all Indie Authors! I was so excited to become a part of this and attended my first of many events.

On April 05, 2025, I had a table along with twenty-five other authors of all genres. They provided lots of entertainment and prizes for all who attended. I had the best time and will attend another one in the fall. They also keep us posted on events here and there throughout the year. I’m sure you will hear me talk more about this group. They are amazing. ❤️

Goodreads Challenge 2025 – Books I Read in April

Since I’ve been so busy getting my new book into the system, I’ve had little time to read much. However, I managed to read these two and enjoyed them a lot.

“Sonny Boy,” by Al Pacino.

(Adult Book)

A look into the creative life of one of the most iconic actors, Al Pacino! He burst onto the scene like a superstar in 1971 with his first leading role in “The Panic in Needle Park”, and by 1975, he was already recognized as a major star. He writes about how he felt through all his films, which makes me want to go back and watch them again with this new perspective.

Films such as “The Godfather,” “The Godfather Part II,” “Serpico”, and “Dog Day Afternoon” achieved box office success, but also left a significant mark on film history. His performances in these movies became legendary and changed his life.

With the New York theater scene being his first love, he still had to take on various jobs to maintain his passion for acting. Raised by a loving mother who struggled with mental health, Pacino’s upbringing was also impacted by his father’s early departure. This led him to turn to life on the streets of the South Bronx. It was a teacher who eventually recognized his exceptional acting talent, encouraging him to chase his dreams in New York City.

Entering the High School of Performing Arts marked a pivotal moment in his life. Throughout his challenges and triumphs, acting emerged as his saving grace. “Sonny Boy” represents his journey as an individual burdened by fears and secrets.

This book shows important partnerships and connections while addressing the complex balance between creativity and business at high levels. Yet, at its core, the story emphasizes love and purpose.

Al Pacino fell deeply in love with his art long before realizing the rewards it would yield. He has never ceased to adore it. That passion made all the difference for him.

“Lou Gehrig: The Lost Memoir,” by Alan D. Gaff

(Middle Grade and up.)

"Lou Gehrig: The Lost Memoir," by Alan D. Gaff

This book offers a fascinating look at my favorite baseball players, with the New York Yankees’ number 4, Lou Gehrig.

At twenty-four, Gehrig shares his journey during the 1927 Yankees’ peak, showcasing his ambition and insight. These stories depict his humble beginnings and illustrate how he rose from a poor background in East Harlem to achieve greatness in sports.

This memoir invites readers into baseball’s golden age and highlights Lou’s resilience. Gehrig’s reflections on his rise to fame resonate profoundly, especially in contrast to his later battle with ALS.

Historian Alan D. Gaff’s biographical essay adds depth by providing context to Gehrig’s legacy. For baseball fans and biography readers, “Lou Gehrig’s Lost Memoir” is essential, honoring the athlete and the man. This book beautifully preserves Gehrig’s spirit and story.

I loved the details of his friendships with teammates and his dedication to baseball. If you want to learn more about Babe Ruth, Ty Cobb, Bob Meusel, and others from the 1920s, you’ll find many great stories about them, too.

I recommend it to all sports and history enthusiasts.

“A Night in Lacey Manor,” by Sonja McGiboney

(Middle Grade)

(I am not counting this one to my Goodreads Challenge because it’s under 100 pages…but it’s way too fun and cute not to share with you all!

“A Night in Lacey Manor,” by Sonja McGiboney and illustrator Andy Catling, is an ideal spooky tale for young readers.

This engaging 44-page chapter book weaves together themes of friendship, bravery, and a spooky adventure. Readers will be captivated right from the start by the charming artwork, as well.

The well-developed relationship between Todd and Louise highlights childhood bonds and the loyalty that comes with pinky promises. How sweet is that?

The spooky theme builds suspense as the story unfolds, particularly when they embark on their eerie journey to the foreboding Lacey Manor.

McGiboney skillfully heightens tension, keeping readers on the edge of their seats. The narrative takes a gripping turn with Todd’s sudden disappearance, shifting the tone to one of urgency and concern. This moment cleverly raises questions about courage and the necessity of confronting the unknown.

This book is delightful. Readers will be eager to follow Louise as she faces her fears and unravels the mystery of Todd’s disappearance, making it a perfect read for any season.

I highly recommend this book for both home and classroom readings.

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That’s all the reading I was able to record this past month. I hope I can get more in once my book is finished and published. Until then, I’ll be busy with that, and oh yes, going to baseball games. Yay! ⚾

Let’s Hear From YOU!

Please let us know in the comment sections below. Any new projects? Any upcoming summer plans? We can’t wait to hear how things are going for you.

Until next time…as always,

Happy Spring and Happy Reading!