Launch of Young Voices 2011

October 14, 2011

Last night, I really enjoyed attending the launch of Young Voices 2011, the Toronto Public Library’s annual magazine of art and writing for youth aged 12 to 19. It was great to hear the teens talk about what inspires them and to share their passion for their art.

Thanks to the youth librarians at the TPL for all they do. I’m glad to be a guest editor of this fine magazine.

The deadline for next year’s entries is March 31, 2012. Please help to spread the word to young Toronto artists and writers. For more information, go to the TPL’s Young Voices page.

CM Review of The Yo-Yo Prophet

October 6, 2011

I’m delighted with this new review of The Yo-Yo Prophet in Canadian Materials:

“Karen Krossing has created a fresh and engaging story that was intricately crafted, yet easy to follow. Of particular note were the different terms and descriptions for yo-yo tricks and techniques. The explanations and descriptions of the different yo-yo skills that Calvin was adeptly practicing and mastering were done in such a way that I could easily envision what he was doing. This particular element would be especially useful for readers as evidence of effective descriptions of potentially foreign concepts. I also appreciated the realistic portrayal of high school life. As Calvin’s confidence increased and as he sought to fit within the high school hierarchy, aided in part by his successful yo-yo performances, he weaved his way in and out of difficult decisions, with some being more successfully resolved than others….

“A large component of the success of The Yo-Yo Prophet lies in its innovative plotline coupled with superior character development. The reader is privy to Calvin’s fascination and aptness with a yo-yo, adding an enhanced level of playfulness to this highly enjoyable read. Highly Recommended.”

To read the whole review, visit Canadian Materials.

Feature Author Interview

October 5, 2011

You can check out my Feature Author Interview with Orca Book Publishers on their site. Here’s a teaser:
Feature Author Interview by Orca Book Publishers
Why do you write, and why children’s books?
I write to understand the world. I love how a gorgeous string of words can alter my perceptions, widen my view of the world. Words have incredible power. They can inspire us to do great things. They can make us laugh or cry. I’m continually fascinated by the power of words to move me. Read More >>

For more of my online author interviews and a participant review of my writing workshops, click here.

Karen’s Upcoming

In Cut the Lights, the director of a one-act play is at odds with her cast and crew until she learns some important truths about the fine art of directing. A debut in Orca Books' new Limelights performing arts series.

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