Welcome Journalists!
Thank you for your interest in me and my books.
I'd be happy to help you with a news story, interview, or take part in a review or giveaway.
I've posted some links and information below to help you.
If what you're looking for isn't there, please feel free to contact me at jucasey@gmail.com.
Thanks again!
I'd be happy to help you with a news story, interview, or take part in a review or giveaway.
I've posted some links and information below to help you.
If what you're looking for isn't there, please feel free to contact me at jucasey@gmail.com.
Thanks again!
Julie L. Casey Author Photo and Bio
Julie Casey lives in a rural area near St. Joseph, Missouri, with her husband, Jonn Casey, a science teacher, and their three youngest sons. After teaching preschool for fifteen years, she has been homeschooling her four sons for ten years. Julie has Bachelor of Science degrees in education and computer programming and has written four books. She enjoys historical reenacting, wildlife rehabilitation, teaching her children, and writing books that capture the imaginations of young people.
Contact Info
Email: jucasey@gmail.com
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/JulieLCasey
Twitter: @JulieLCasey
Contact Info
Email: jucasey@gmail.com
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/JulieLCasey
Twitter: @JulieLCasey
FAQ (Frequently Asked Questions)
When did you start writing?
I’ve always enjoyed writing, but I never attempted to write anything significant until I wrote my first book, Stop Beating the Dead Horse, in 2010 at the age of 49. After that, I was hooked and wrote three more books in quick succession.
How long does it take you to write a book?
That has varied greatly with each book. My first book is non-fiction and took a lot of research to back up my thoughts and ideas. I had been thinking about all those ideas for many years – since high school, as a matter of fact. It was very cathartic and affirming to finally get all those thoughts out of my brain and onto paper. The actual writing and editing of it took about six months. I had a group of peer editors who read each chapter as I wrote it and helped me refine my ideas and fix my grammar/typo errors.
The next book I wrote, In Daddy’s Hands, was just a quick, funny little novella inspired by actual events and took only a couple of weeks to write and edit.
I wrote my third book, a young adult post-apocalyptic novel called Holt:Guardians of Hope, in about three months with another month for editing, thanks to my friend Landi Quinlin, a terrific English teacher.
How I Became a Teenage Survivalist was my fourth book and it has a very interesting story of how it came to be. I started with just a few basic ideas about the story, such as the solar event, the names of the brothers, and that they would live on a farm, but other than that, I began the novel with no preconceived ideas. I had decided in October, 2012 to write this story for the NaNoWriMo (National Novel Writing Month) contest, in which you must write a 50,000+ word novel within the month of November to qualify. I began on November 1st, 2012 and finished on November 22nd with How I Became a Teenage Survivalist as the finished product. The story was so fun to write. Every morning I'd sit down at the computer, place my fingers on the keyboard and the story would just start pouring out of me; I had no idea where it would take me each day. It was like I was reading the story as it unfolded. I would pause only occasionally to research parts of the story to make sure it was as accurate as a fiction novel can be.
You self-published your first two novels. Why did you decide to go with a traditional publisher for Teenage Survivalist?
Self-publishing was a very enjoyable and creative process, but in order to sell books, you have to be good at marketing. I decided to try a traditional publisher to get some help with the marketing.
How difficult was it to get a publishing contract?
I found querying literary agents to be a tedious task. A writer needs an agent to land a contract with one of the “big six” publishers. After querying 20 agents and getting three requests for the full manuscript (which is good considering the average rate of requests is only about 2%), all of whom ultimately declined, I decided to try another route – indie publishers. While these are still traditional publishers (as opposed to self-publishing or vanity presses), they often take submissions from authors without agents. I sent my manuscript to three indie presses, all three of whom expressed interest in my story, and ultimately chose to go with Pants On Fire Press out of Florida.
What advice do you have for aspiring writers?
Just do it! Many new writers fear failure and rejection so never really get serious about writing. My advice is to just write for yourself; write to clear the jumble of thoughts and emotions out of your brain. And when you’re through, if you like what you wrote, go back and make it better, word by word, line by line. When you’re really feeling confident about it, let someone else read it and see what they think.
I’ve always enjoyed writing, but I never attempted to write anything significant until I wrote my first book, Stop Beating the Dead Horse, in 2010 at the age of 49. After that, I was hooked and wrote three more books in quick succession.
How long does it take you to write a book?
That has varied greatly with each book. My first book is non-fiction and took a lot of research to back up my thoughts and ideas. I had been thinking about all those ideas for many years – since high school, as a matter of fact. It was very cathartic and affirming to finally get all those thoughts out of my brain and onto paper. The actual writing and editing of it took about six months. I had a group of peer editors who read each chapter as I wrote it and helped me refine my ideas and fix my grammar/typo errors.
The next book I wrote, In Daddy’s Hands, was just a quick, funny little novella inspired by actual events and took only a couple of weeks to write and edit.
I wrote my third book, a young adult post-apocalyptic novel called Holt:Guardians of Hope, in about three months with another month for editing, thanks to my friend Landi Quinlin, a terrific English teacher.
How I Became a Teenage Survivalist was my fourth book and it has a very interesting story of how it came to be. I started with just a few basic ideas about the story, such as the solar event, the names of the brothers, and that they would live on a farm, but other than that, I began the novel with no preconceived ideas. I had decided in October, 2012 to write this story for the NaNoWriMo (National Novel Writing Month) contest, in which you must write a 50,000+ word novel within the month of November to qualify. I began on November 1st, 2012 and finished on November 22nd with How I Became a Teenage Survivalist as the finished product. The story was so fun to write. Every morning I'd sit down at the computer, place my fingers on the keyboard and the story would just start pouring out of me; I had no idea where it would take me each day. It was like I was reading the story as it unfolded. I would pause only occasionally to research parts of the story to make sure it was as accurate as a fiction novel can be.
You self-published your first two novels. Why did you decide to go with a traditional publisher for Teenage Survivalist?
Self-publishing was a very enjoyable and creative process, but in order to sell books, you have to be good at marketing. I decided to try a traditional publisher to get some help with the marketing.
How difficult was it to get a publishing contract?
I found querying literary agents to be a tedious task. A writer needs an agent to land a contract with one of the “big six” publishers. After querying 20 agents and getting three requests for the full manuscript (which is good considering the average rate of requests is only about 2%), all of whom ultimately declined, I decided to try another route – indie publishers. While these are still traditional publishers (as opposed to self-publishing or vanity presses), they often take submissions from authors without agents. I sent my manuscript to three indie presses, all three of whom expressed interest in my story, and ultimately chose to go with Pants On Fire Press out of Florida.
What advice do you have for aspiring writers?
Just do it! Many new writers fear failure and rejection so never really get serious about writing. My advice is to just write for yourself; write to clear the jumble of thoughts and emotions out of your brain. And when you’re through, if you like what you wrote, go back and make it better, word by word, line by line. When you’re really feeling confident about it, let someone else read it and see what they think.
How I Became a Teenage Survivalist Cover Image & Publishing Information
Publisher: Amazing Things Press
Copyright: Julie L. Casey
Release Date: June 24, 2013, republished March 2, 2015
Genre: Young Adult Fiction
ISBN#: 978-0692399750
Formats available: paperback and ebook
Number of pages: 256
Website
Copyright: Julie L. Casey
Release Date: June 24, 2013, republished March 2, 2015
Genre: Young Adult Fiction
ISBN#: 978-0692399750
Formats available: paperback and ebook
Number of pages: 256
Website
How I Became a Teenage Survivalist Synopsis
Bracken is a typical teenage boy, more interested in the angles of the girl’s exposed back teasing him from the seat ahead of him than in anything the geometry teacher could present. His life is filled with school, video games, and thoughts of girls, not necessarily (or probably not) in that order. Life just flows along uneventfully and unacknowledged, like the electricity that courses through the power lines — until PF Day.
On PF (Power Failure) Day, the sun strikes Bracken’s world with an unseen surge of electromagnetic fury, which cripples power stations and burns transformers to crispy nuggets of regret. No one in Bracken’s world had ever thought about how much they depended on electrical power but now, without it, they are plunged into survival mode. Without electricity there is no communication, no modern conveniences and soon, no modern means of transportation, as the reserves of refined gasoline run dry. Worse still is the failure of the water and sewer systems, the impossibility of getting food and supplies to people living in cities, and the deaths of millions of people from starvation, disease, and lack of medical care.
Bracken soon realizes how lucky he is to live on a farm in the Midwest. What seemed like a dull and backwards life before is now the greatest chance for survival in what seems like a powerless world. Food, water, and heat are readily available, although hard work is required to make use of them. Bracken and his family must learn to survive like their ancestors, who settled their land.
On PF (Power Failure) Day, the sun strikes Bracken’s world with an unseen surge of electromagnetic fury, which cripples power stations and burns transformers to crispy nuggets of regret. No one in Bracken’s world had ever thought about how much they depended on electrical power but now, without it, they are plunged into survival mode. Without electricity there is no communication, no modern conveniences and soon, no modern means of transportation, as the reserves of refined gasoline run dry. Worse still is the failure of the water and sewer systems, the impossibility of getting food and supplies to people living in cities, and the deaths of millions of people from starvation, disease, and lack of medical care.
Bracken soon realizes how lucky he is to live on a farm in the Midwest. What seemed like a dull and backwards life before is now the greatest chance for survival in what seems like a powerless world. Food, water, and heat are readily available, although hard work is required to make use of them. Bracken and his family must learn to survive like their ancestors, who settled their land.
How I Became a Teenage Survivalist FAQs
HOW DID YOU COME UP WITH THE IDEA FOR HOW I BECAME A TEENAGE SURVIVALIST?
I have always been fascinated by life in the "good old days," so I've been drawn to books about early settlers, pioneers, and living off the land. I also love science fiction but as a realist, I've always thought that the notion of humans destroying themselves was a little far-fetched. I mean, sure, humans do some pretty terrible things to each other, but I'd like to think that overall we're too smart to totally decimate each other with nukes or something similar. Instead, I believe that if our civilization is doomed, it will be because of some natural event like a meteor or a solar superstorm. I don't believe that this scenario is probable in our lifetimes, just that it is possible and I did extensive research to make sure that what is in the book portrays what really might happen in such an event. Even so, I am a great believer in the spirit and goodness of the human species and I wanted to write a book that reveals that spirit in a positive way.
WHEN DID YOU START WRITING HOW I BECAME A TEENAGE SURVIVALIST?
I started with just a few basic ideas about the story, such as the solar event, the names of the brothers, and that they would live on a farm, but other than that, I began the novel with no preconceived ideas. I had decided in October, 2012 to write this story for the NaNoWriMo (National Novel Writing Month) contest, in which you must write a 50,000+ word novel within the month of November to qualify. I began on November 1st, 2012 and finished on November 22nd with How I Became a Teenage Survivalist as the finished product. The story was so fun to write. Every morning I'd sit down at the computer, place my fingers on the keyboard and the story would just start pouring out of me; I had no idea where it would take me each day. It was like I was reading the story as it unfolded. I would pause only occasionally to research parts of the story to make sure it was as accurate as a fiction novel can be.
HOW MUCH INTEREST HAS THERE BEEN IN HOW I BECAME A TEENAGE SURVIVALIST?
The novel was a quarterfinalist in the Amazon Breakthrough Novel Award contest, being among the top 5% of 10,000 entries. Since the announcement of it's publishing deal in Publisher's Marketplace. the book has garnered significant interest from agents inquiring about foreign translation/film rights, including some major Hollywood producers.
HOW LIKELY IS A SOLAR SUPERSTORM LIKE THE ONE IN THE BOOK TO HAPPEN?
The story portrays a "perfect storm" scenario, so it is unlikely but still a possibility. There are solar events happening every year and some are quite large, but not only does the CME (Coronal Mass Ejection) have to be huge and higly charged magnetically, it has to hit the Earth's atmosphere just right in order to cause the kind of destruction portrayed in the story. The CME itself rotates, one side being positively charged and the other being negatively charged. If the CME hits Earth's atmosphere with the same polarity, positive to positive or negative to negative, the CME pulse will be repelled into space, much like what happens when you hold two magnets together with the same poles facing each other. But if it hits the opposite polarity, and the CME's magnetic field is strong enough, the Earth's magnetic field may collapse and the surge will quickly circumnavigate the globe, likely taking down most, if not all, of the power grids and short-circuiting a large percentage of all electronic devices. There are only a few places in the world that manufacture the 125 kilowatt transformers that are the backbone of the power grids; if a majority of those transformers are fried, it could take years, maybe even decades, to replace them. You can read more about solar superstorms, CMEs, and survivalism on the Find Out More page.
WHAT WOULD BE THE GREATEST DILEMMA FOR HUMANS IF SOMETHING LIKE THIS WERE TO HAPPEN?
It would be hard to pinpoint one problem that would be the greatest, since so many things would most likely cause millions and maybe even billions of deaths. Immediately with the electromagnetic surge, up to two thirds of vehicles on the road would experience engine stall and traffic lights would blink off, causing a multitude of traffic accidents. Some people might be electrocuted by surges through the power lines and electronic devices, and workers at power plants may die in the explosion of transformers. Within a few days, people who rely on ventilators, dialysis machines, and other electronic devices would probably die as the fuel for the back-up generators runs out. Pharmaceutical companies would run out of supplies of medicines and within a few months, people who rely on medicines to stay alive may die. Remember, no manufacturing or drilling for and refining oil can occur without power. Food supplies will run low and many people will have to loot or fight for food. Sewage treatment plants will not be operable, so sewage will back up on city streets, causing all sorts of diseases; diseases for which medicine is no longer available to cure. Finding clean water will become a priority very quickly as cities will no longer be able to pump and treat water. Keeping warm will be a struggle in colder climates, as not that many people have heat sources that do not require electricity or fossil fuels to run.
I have always been fascinated by life in the "good old days," so I've been drawn to books about early settlers, pioneers, and living off the land. I also love science fiction but as a realist, I've always thought that the notion of humans destroying themselves was a little far-fetched. I mean, sure, humans do some pretty terrible things to each other, but I'd like to think that overall we're too smart to totally decimate each other with nukes or something similar. Instead, I believe that if our civilization is doomed, it will be because of some natural event like a meteor or a solar superstorm. I don't believe that this scenario is probable in our lifetimes, just that it is possible and I did extensive research to make sure that what is in the book portrays what really might happen in such an event. Even so, I am a great believer in the spirit and goodness of the human species and I wanted to write a book that reveals that spirit in a positive way.
WHEN DID YOU START WRITING HOW I BECAME A TEENAGE SURVIVALIST?
I started with just a few basic ideas about the story, such as the solar event, the names of the brothers, and that they would live on a farm, but other than that, I began the novel with no preconceived ideas. I had decided in October, 2012 to write this story for the NaNoWriMo (National Novel Writing Month) contest, in which you must write a 50,000+ word novel within the month of November to qualify. I began on November 1st, 2012 and finished on November 22nd with How I Became a Teenage Survivalist as the finished product. The story was so fun to write. Every morning I'd sit down at the computer, place my fingers on the keyboard and the story would just start pouring out of me; I had no idea where it would take me each day. It was like I was reading the story as it unfolded. I would pause only occasionally to research parts of the story to make sure it was as accurate as a fiction novel can be.
HOW MUCH INTEREST HAS THERE BEEN IN HOW I BECAME A TEENAGE SURVIVALIST?
The novel was a quarterfinalist in the Amazon Breakthrough Novel Award contest, being among the top 5% of 10,000 entries. Since the announcement of it's publishing deal in Publisher's Marketplace. the book has garnered significant interest from agents inquiring about foreign translation/film rights, including some major Hollywood producers.
HOW LIKELY IS A SOLAR SUPERSTORM LIKE THE ONE IN THE BOOK TO HAPPEN?
The story portrays a "perfect storm" scenario, so it is unlikely but still a possibility. There are solar events happening every year and some are quite large, but not only does the CME (Coronal Mass Ejection) have to be huge and higly charged magnetically, it has to hit the Earth's atmosphere just right in order to cause the kind of destruction portrayed in the story. The CME itself rotates, one side being positively charged and the other being negatively charged. If the CME hits Earth's atmosphere with the same polarity, positive to positive or negative to negative, the CME pulse will be repelled into space, much like what happens when you hold two magnets together with the same poles facing each other. But if it hits the opposite polarity, and the CME's magnetic field is strong enough, the Earth's magnetic field may collapse and the surge will quickly circumnavigate the globe, likely taking down most, if not all, of the power grids and short-circuiting a large percentage of all electronic devices. There are only a few places in the world that manufacture the 125 kilowatt transformers that are the backbone of the power grids; if a majority of those transformers are fried, it could take years, maybe even decades, to replace them. You can read more about solar superstorms, CMEs, and survivalism on the Find Out More page.
WHAT WOULD BE THE GREATEST DILEMMA FOR HUMANS IF SOMETHING LIKE THIS WERE TO HAPPEN?
It would be hard to pinpoint one problem that would be the greatest, since so many things would most likely cause millions and maybe even billions of deaths. Immediately with the electromagnetic surge, up to two thirds of vehicles on the road would experience engine stall and traffic lights would blink off, causing a multitude of traffic accidents. Some people might be electrocuted by surges through the power lines and electronic devices, and workers at power plants may die in the explosion of transformers. Within a few days, people who rely on ventilators, dialysis machines, and other electronic devices would probably die as the fuel for the back-up generators runs out. Pharmaceutical companies would run out of supplies of medicines and within a few months, people who rely on medicines to stay alive may die. Remember, no manufacturing or drilling for and refining oil can occur without power. Food supplies will run low and many people will have to loot or fight for food. Sewage treatment plants will not be operable, so sewage will back up on city streets, causing all sorts of diseases; diseases for which medicine is no longer available to cure. Finding clean water will become a priority very quickly as cities will no longer be able to pump and treat water. Keeping warm will be a struggle in colder climates, as not that many people have heat sources that do not require electricity or fossil fuels to run.
How I Became a Teenage Survivalist Reviews
ABNA Expert Reviewer
What is the strongest aspect of this excerpt?
Bracken is a most appealing narrator. The author has provided great insights into his character--his teenaged boy's reaction to Silky's short sweater, his resentment of his brother Alex--and leavens the seriousness of his predicament with a bit of humor.
I particularly like that the author set this story on a Midwest farm. Post-apocalyptic cities have been done to death and IMO, a rural community has much more story potential in the circumstances than endless garbage piling up on city streets.
What aspect needs the most work?
This excerpt is very strong as it stands.
Sometimes this type of story can get tedious and depressing, but this author seems to have given Bracken a lightness of tone that promises a fresh and down to earth perspective on appalling circumstances.
What is your overall opinion of this excerpt?
This is a very good beginning to a post-apocalyptic tale. The hero/narrator has a fresh, appealing voice, and the author allows the reader to discover the parameters of his predicament along with him. This reader looks forward to his further experiences.
ABNA Expert Reviewer
What is the strongest aspect of this excerpt?
The strongest part of this excerpt are the interesting twists on a semi-familiar "doomsday" scenario. It also helps that the main character is dynamic and can carry the story from the beginning.
What aspect needs the most work?
The aspect that needs the most work in this excerpt would be the dialogue between the characters. In some scenarios it seems slightly stilted and forced.
What is your overall opinion of this excerpt?
Overall this is a very interesting twist on the "doomsday" scenario. There are dynamic characters and the writing is very successful in sounding like a teenage boy. It is a story that pulls you in and makes you want to read more.
ABNA Publishers Weekly Reviewer
In November 2012, the Midwest is hit with a solar superstorm, and 15-year-old Bracken and his family must figure out how to survive without electricity. “There are no phones, no TV, no video games, no lights to read by at night, not to mention no refrigeration, no microwave, and no cars after the gas ran out.” The story builds and is engrossing, and the situations are realistic. However, when the power comes back on in May 2013, there is a shift in the pacing of the story. For the next 10 pages there is an attempt to show how returning to normal is hard and life is not nearly as engaging with electricity -- but this seems rushed as another solar superstorm hits a few pages later. The families are more prepared this time and the point is driven home that a simple life of self-reliance is better and more fulfilling. The appeal of this story is its simplicity and pacing. The simple, matter-of-fact tone of the story has merit, but it could use a stronger sense of consistency.
5.0 out of 5 stars
Very Enjoyable, April 12, 2012
By SG3rddantkd
This review is from: How I Became a Teenage Survivalist - 2012 ABNA Entry (Kindle Edition)
This grabbed me right from the start. I always read the first couple of pages whenever I look for a book to read and this one certainly caught my attention. It is certainly thought provoking and extremely entertaining. Loved it!!
4.0 out of 5 stars
a bit Day After Tomorrow, March 31, 2012
By Mr. P. Reid "Flick" (UK)
This review is from: How I Became a Teenage Survivalist - 2012 ABNA Entry (Kindle Edition)
Maybe not the climate change in the film, but very like that in that it is life after the Apocalypse of the solar flares. Apparently we do indeed get these from time to time and they could (possibly) do just this. I would be intrigued to know whether this power outage has affected both sides of the world, and if the one facing away from the sun is just as bad.
I like you having a teenage protagonist. There isn't a lot of dialogue to go on so far, as a large part of this first bit involves him remembering how it came about. This could be said to be tell not show, but you manage very well to keep what could be a boring info dump interesting and engaging. Maybe a little long winded in places, but a nice tight edit will make it snappier for sure.
In this day and age, something we should all be aware might well happen! I imagine things are going to go on getting worse. How gritty are you going to let it get? Will anarchy reign? Or will the plucky survivors triumph?
Will our hero show himself a true hero?
I would like to find out what happens here. A book that should appeal to boys (which makes a nice change from all those ones about teenage girls). I think my son might like to read this in a couple of years time.
5.0 out of 5 stars
Really thought provoking, March 28, 2012
By TGirl2003
Amazon Verified Purchase
This review is from: How I Became a Teenage Survivalist - 2012 ABNA Entry (Kindle Edition)
This book makes you think about what could happen if something like this could happen. It really makes you think we should all start thinking about what we can do to be prepared in case a solar storm happened here and now.
5.0 out of 5 stars
Perfect for my students!, March 28, 2012
By Jhteacher
This review is from: How I Became a Teenage Survivalist - 2012 ABNA Entry (Kindle Edition)
I am so excited to read this novel! I am sure it will be perfect for my junior high student readers. Not only is there a teenage boy protagonist, but the event is actually something that could really happen! It's a fresh and timely turn on the post-apocolyptic novel. My students devour books like this, and in my professional opinion there aren't enough out there to engage these boys (and girls). The protagonist is so real, and his thoughts will really strike a chord with my teens. I could even see myself using this in my classes as a teaching tool.
5.0 out of 5 stars
So exciting!!!!, March 26, 2012
By Triciahsmom816
This review is from: How I Became a Teenage Survivalist - 2012 ABNA Entry (Kindle Edition)
I cannot wait to read this book! I have never read a book about this kind of topic for young adults. Thank you author for writing a book that is new and imaginitive,yet a could happen topic. This isnt some vampire book done in 50 differnt ways. This is a new exciting idea!
5.0 out of 5 stars
Can't wait for my sons to read it!, March 25, 2012
By DenverMom
This review is from: How I Became a Teenage Survivalist - 2012 ABNA Entry (Kindle Edition)
Julie Casey does an awesome job capturing the thoughts of a teenage boy. She keeps it in line with the readers she is pursuing by making it relevant. I do not allow my children to read much in the way of new fiction and insist on them reading things that will inspire and encourage them to be better people. I am very happy with "Teenage Survivalist" in that it is something I want my boys to read. I believe it will inspire them to become more self-sufficient. It is also very timely since many, many people are worried that our society will not be able to continue on its current course. We all need to understand how to live in survivalist mode if the need arises. Thank you, Julie, and keep writing!!
5.0 out of 5 stars
Life with a twist....., March 25, 2012
By hpmom17
This review is from: How I Became a Teenage Survivalist - 2012 ABNA Entry (Kindle Edition)
I spend a lot of time reading, books for myself and books with my children. So much of what I have read recently is based on the super natural, or things that could never happen. This book is such a wonderful change of pace! There are natural disasters occurring every day and you never know what the outcome may be. This book shows you how families and neighbors can pull together in crisis and make it through with some hard work and imagination. The main character, Bracken, is so down to earth and just a typical teenage boy who finds out that life can be so much more than modern conveniences and electronics. This is definitely something that I will encourage my children to read.
What is the strongest aspect of this excerpt?
Bracken is a most appealing narrator. The author has provided great insights into his character--his teenaged boy's reaction to Silky's short sweater, his resentment of his brother Alex--and leavens the seriousness of his predicament with a bit of humor.
I particularly like that the author set this story on a Midwest farm. Post-apocalyptic cities have been done to death and IMO, a rural community has much more story potential in the circumstances than endless garbage piling up on city streets.
What aspect needs the most work?
This excerpt is very strong as it stands.
Sometimes this type of story can get tedious and depressing, but this author seems to have given Bracken a lightness of tone that promises a fresh and down to earth perspective on appalling circumstances.
What is your overall opinion of this excerpt?
This is a very good beginning to a post-apocalyptic tale. The hero/narrator has a fresh, appealing voice, and the author allows the reader to discover the parameters of his predicament along with him. This reader looks forward to his further experiences.
ABNA Expert Reviewer
What is the strongest aspect of this excerpt?
The strongest part of this excerpt are the interesting twists on a semi-familiar "doomsday" scenario. It also helps that the main character is dynamic and can carry the story from the beginning.
What aspect needs the most work?
The aspect that needs the most work in this excerpt would be the dialogue between the characters. In some scenarios it seems slightly stilted and forced.
What is your overall opinion of this excerpt?
Overall this is a very interesting twist on the "doomsday" scenario. There are dynamic characters and the writing is very successful in sounding like a teenage boy. It is a story that pulls you in and makes you want to read more.
ABNA Publishers Weekly Reviewer
In November 2012, the Midwest is hit with a solar superstorm, and 15-year-old Bracken and his family must figure out how to survive without electricity. “There are no phones, no TV, no video games, no lights to read by at night, not to mention no refrigeration, no microwave, and no cars after the gas ran out.” The story builds and is engrossing, and the situations are realistic. However, when the power comes back on in May 2013, there is a shift in the pacing of the story. For the next 10 pages there is an attempt to show how returning to normal is hard and life is not nearly as engaging with electricity -- but this seems rushed as another solar superstorm hits a few pages later. The families are more prepared this time and the point is driven home that a simple life of self-reliance is better and more fulfilling. The appeal of this story is its simplicity and pacing. The simple, matter-of-fact tone of the story has merit, but it could use a stronger sense of consistency.
5.0 out of 5 stars
Very Enjoyable, April 12, 2012
By SG3rddantkd
This review is from: How I Became a Teenage Survivalist - 2012 ABNA Entry (Kindle Edition)
This grabbed me right from the start. I always read the first couple of pages whenever I look for a book to read and this one certainly caught my attention. It is certainly thought provoking and extremely entertaining. Loved it!!
4.0 out of 5 stars
a bit Day After Tomorrow, March 31, 2012
By Mr. P. Reid "Flick" (UK)
This review is from: How I Became a Teenage Survivalist - 2012 ABNA Entry (Kindle Edition)
Maybe not the climate change in the film, but very like that in that it is life after the Apocalypse of the solar flares. Apparently we do indeed get these from time to time and they could (possibly) do just this. I would be intrigued to know whether this power outage has affected both sides of the world, and if the one facing away from the sun is just as bad.
I like you having a teenage protagonist. There isn't a lot of dialogue to go on so far, as a large part of this first bit involves him remembering how it came about. This could be said to be tell not show, but you manage very well to keep what could be a boring info dump interesting and engaging. Maybe a little long winded in places, but a nice tight edit will make it snappier for sure.
In this day and age, something we should all be aware might well happen! I imagine things are going to go on getting worse. How gritty are you going to let it get? Will anarchy reign? Or will the plucky survivors triumph?
Will our hero show himself a true hero?
I would like to find out what happens here. A book that should appeal to boys (which makes a nice change from all those ones about teenage girls). I think my son might like to read this in a couple of years time.
5.0 out of 5 stars
Really thought provoking, March 28, 2012
By TGirl2003
Amazon Verified Purchase
This review is from: How I Became a Teenage Survivalist - 2012 ABNA Entry (Kindle Edition)
This book makes you think about what could happen if something like this could happen. It really makes you think we should all start thinking about what we can do to be prepared in case a solar storm happened here and now.
5.0 out of 5 stars
Perfect for my students!, March 28, 2012
By Jhteacher
This review is from: How I Became a Teenage Survivalist - 2012 ABNA Entry (Kindle Edition)
I am so excited to read this novel! I am sure it will be perfect for my junior high student readers. Not only is there a teenage boy protagonist, but the event is actually something that could really happen! It's a fresh and timely turn on the post-apocolyptic novel. My students devour books like this, and in my professional opinion there aren't enough out there to engage these boys (and girls). The protagonist is so real, and his thoughts will really strike a chord with my teens. I could even see myself using this in my classes as a teaching tool.
5.0 out of 5 stars
So exciting!!!!, March 26, 2012
By Triciahsmom816
This review is from: How I Became a Teenage Survivalist - 2012 ABNA Entry (Kindle Edition)
I cannot wait to read this book! I have never read a book about this kind of topic for young adults. Thank you author for writing a book that is new and imaginitive,yet a could happen topic. This isnt some vampire book done in 50 differnt ways. This is a new exciting idea!
5.0 out of 5 stars
Can't wait for my sons to read it!, March 25, 2012
By DenverMom
This review is from: How I Became a Teenage Survivalist - 2012 ABNA Entry (Kindle Edition)
Julie Casey does an awesome job capturing the thoughts of a teenage boy. She keeps it in line with the readers she is pursuing by making it relevant. I do not allow my children to read much in the way of new fiction and insist on them reading things that will inspire and encourage them to be better people. I am very happy with "Teenage Survivalist" in that it is something I want my boys to read. I believe it will inspire them to become more self-sufficient. It is also very timely since many, many people are worried that our society will not be able to continue on its current course. We all need to understand how to live in survivalist mode if the need arises. Thank you, Julie, and keep writing!!
5.0 out of 5 stars
Life with a twist....., March 25, 2012
By hpmom17
This review is from: How I Became a Teenage Survivalist - 2012 ABNA Entry (Kindle Edition)
I spend a lot of time reading, books for myself and books with my children. So much of what I have read recently is based on the super natural, or things that could never happen. This book is such a wonderful change of pace! There are natural disasters occurring every day and you never know what the outcome may be. This book shows you how families and neighbors can pull together in crisis and make it through with some hard work and imagination. The main character, Bracken, is so down to earth and just a typical teenage boy who finds out that life can be so much more than modern conveniences and electronics. This is definitely something that I will encourage my children to read.
Time Lost: Teenage Survivalist II Cover Image and Publishing Information
Publisher: Amazing Things Press
Copyright: Julie L. Casey
Release Date: April 26, 2014
Genre: Young Adult Fiction
ISBN#: 978-0615986944
Formats available: paperback and ebook
Number of pages: 270
Website
Copyright: Julie L. Casey
Release Date: April 26, 2014
Genre: Young Adult Fiction
ISBN#: 978-0615986944
Formats available: paperback and ebook
Number of pages: 270
Website
Time Lost: Teenage Survivalist II Synopsis
Ben's 13th year was when his family fell apart, but his 14th year is when his whole world, or more precisely, the whole world, collapses. He had thought 13 was his unlucky number, the year that Time turned its back on him, but he was wrong; that year, it was he who had turned his back on Time. The following year, the fury of the sun turns back Time for everyone in the world.
On PF (Power Failure) Day, a huge electromagnetic surge from the sun destroys the power grids and civilization as we know it. Living in the middle of downtown Kansas City makes survival near impossible. Starvation, dehydration, disease, freezing temperatures, and out-of-control fires imperil the desperate population. After facing unimaginable losses, Ben finds hope in for the future when he meets Sara, who has endured her own share of agonizing loss. But when a murderous gang threatens to take away everything Ben has left, they flee to a wilderness area of a large city park where they learn to live off the land for survival.
Time Lost: Teenage Survivalist II Reviews
5 out of 5 stars A home-run in the HIBATS series!
By Whitney Lawrence Grady on April 2, 2014
Time Lost is a home run in the HIBATS series! From the beginning, I fell in love with Ben's personal point of view and his description of his experiences. He feels time is against him and his heart is heavy with loss. While the start of the book grips your heart, the adventures to come keep you turning the pages! I couldn't put this book down! If Life of Pi met Water for Elephants...this book would be there! It is definitely worth a read and shows what a great series the HIBATS series is!
5 out of 5 stars Keep this series going!
By Tossy on March 11, 2014
Copy of this book was given to me for a honest review.
I read Julie's first book How I Became a Teenage Survivalist and was hooked! Could hardly wait for this book and I must say it was well worth the wait! My heart broke for Ben, especially when he reached his mothers house. This young man faces hardships that would crush most of us.
Please keep this series going!!
4 out of 5 stars Please continue the series
By danette33 on March 10, 2014
I was urprised how different this story was from book 1. I really loved the story and characters in book 1. This book has a great story but it was so tragic, repeatedly. To your writing credit, I felt so much pain for Ben. I really hoped after all the heartache there would be a life lesson ending with a happy ending. Ben deserves a happy ending. I really hope there is another book and please included a stable life filled with prolonged happiness for Ben. I am also looking forward to reading how all the characters are doing.
Thank you for the good read.
Ben's 13th year was when his family fell apart, but his 14th year is when his whole world, or more precisely, the whole world, collapses. He had thought 13 was his unlucky number, the year that Time turned its back on him, but he was wrong; that year, it was he who had turned his back on Time. The following year, the fury of the sun turns back Time for everyone in the world.
On PF (Power Failure) Day, a huge electromagnetic surge from the sun destroys the power grids and civilization as we know it. Living in the middle of downtown Kansas City makes survival near impossible. Starvation, dehydration, disease, freezing temperatures, and out-of-control fires imperil the desperate population. After facing unimaginable losses, Ben finds hope in for the future when he meets Sara, who has endured her own share of agonizing loss. But when a murderous gang threatens to take away everything Ben has left, they flee to a wilderness area of a large city park where they learn to live off the land for survival.
Time Lost: Teenage Survivalist II Reviews
5 out of 5 stars A home-run in the HIBATS series!
By Whitney Lawrence Grady on April 2, 2014
Time Lost is a home run in the HIBATS series! From the beginning, I fell in love with Ben's personal point of view and his description of his experiences. He feels time is against him and his heart is heavy with loss. While the start of the book grips your heart, the adventures to come keep you turning the pages! I couldn't put this book down! If Life of Pi met Water for Elephants...this book would be there! It is definitely worth a read and shows what a great series the HIBATS series is!
5 out of 5 stars Keep this series going!
By Tossy on March 11, 2014
Copy of this book was given to me for a honest review.
I read Julie's first book How I Became a Teenage Survivalist and was hooked! Could hardly wait for this book and I must say it was well worth the wait! My heart broke for Ben, especially when he reached his mothers house. This young man faces hardships that would crush most of us.
Please keep this series going!!
4 out of 5 stars Please continue the series
By danette33 on March 10, 2014
I was urprised how different this story was from book 1. I really loved the story and characters in book 1. This book has a great story but it was so tragic, repeatedly. To your writing credit, I felt so much pain for Ben. I really hoped after all the heartache there would be a life lesson ending with a happy ending. Ben deserves a happy ending. I really hope there is another book and please included a stable life filled with prolonged happiness for Ben. I am also looking forward to reading how all the characters are doing.
Thank you for the good read.
Stop Beating the Dead Horse Cover Image & Publishing Information
ISBN: 9780557470457
Copyright: Julie L. Casey (Standard Copyright License)
Edition: First Edition
Publisher: Amazing Things Press
Published: August 8, 2010
Language: English
Pages: 148
Available formats: Paperback, ebook, and Kindle
Website
Copyright: Julie L. Casey (Standard Copyright License)
Edition: First Edition
Publisher: Amazing Things Press
Published: August 8, 2010
Language: English
Pages: 148
Available formats: Paperback, ebook, and Kindle
Website
Stop Beating the Dead Horse Synopsis
People like to blame someone for problems. Many people blame the president, Congress, local school boards, administrators, or teachers for the shortfalls of the public school system. The problem is not that the educators and lawmakers aren’t trying to improve the system; it’s that they just haven’t realized the proverbial horse is dead. If the basic system doesn’t work, all the money and strategies and dedication in the world will not help unless the system itself is replaced.
One of the most crucial things the system has failed to do is differentiate between equal educational opportunity for all and equal (or identical) education for all. Instead of trying to make everybody the same, an educational system must ensure equal rights for everyone while still allowing them to develop at their own rate and in their own way. Only then can we have the diversity, creativity, and ingenuity needed to compete in the world today.
In this book. I explain why our system has failed (The Dead Horse) and what we can do about it (A New Horse).
One of the most crucial things the system has failed to do is differentiate between equal educational opportunity for all and equal (or identical) education for all. Instead of trying to make everybody the same, an educational system must ensure equal rights for everyone while still allowing them to develop at their own rate and in their own way. Only then can we have the diversity, creativity, and ingenuity needed to compete in the world today.
In this book. I explain why our system has failed (The Dead Horse) and what we can do about it (A New Horse).
Stop Beating the Dead Horse Reviews
By kneibfamily
Aug 29, 2010 Finally, a refreshing approach to truly improving the current system of public education. Julie not only brings up topics that are outside the box but also offers practical solutions to the problems at hand. I thoroughly enjoyed this book. Mary Kneib
By Wendy Renslow
Aug 29, 2010 This book takes a great look at the problems the Public School system faces. It offers real solutions, but takes a comprehensive look at where the problem began and how those problems will continue if change does not take place. It is realistic and down to earth without pushing any agendas or fostering negativity towards the adminstrators of the current system. It is an excellent read for parents who are concerned about their childs education as well as frustrated teachers who aren't sure why their students continue to struggle. I highly recommend this book!
Aug 29, 2010 Finally, a refreshing approach to truly improving the current system of public education. Julie not only brings up topics that are outside the box but also offers practical solutions to the problems at hand. I thoroughly enjoyed this book. Mary Kneib
By Wendy Renslow
Aug 29, 2010 This book takes a great look at the problems the Public School system faces. It offers real solutions, but takes a comprehensive look at where the problem began and how those problems will continue if change does not take place. It is realistic and down to earth without pushing any agendas or fostering negativity towards the adminstrators of the current system. It is an excellent read for parents who are concerned about their childs education as well as frustrated teachers who aren't sure why their students continue to struggle. I highly recommend this book!
In Daddy's Hands Cover Image and Publishing Information
ISBN: 9780557597307
Copyright: Julie L. Casey (Standard Copyright License)
Edition: First Edition
Publisher: Amazing Things Press
Published: September 11, 2010
Language: English
Pages: 140
Available formats: Paperback, ebook, and Kindle
Copyright: Julie L. Casey (Standard Copyright License)
Edition: First Edition
Publisher: Amazing Things Press
Published: September 11, 2010
Language: English
Pages: 140
Available formats: Paperback, ebook, and Kindle
In Daddy's Hands Synopsis
Sara and Todd had no idea that the death of Todd's stepfather would cause so much drama. They were totally unprepared for the crazy events that would unfold in the days following his death. They were also surprised by the personality change that these events would elicit in Todd's mother, Gladys. This humorous novella, which is based on actual events, explores western culture's attitudes toward death and funerals.
In Daddy's Hands Reviews
Think your family is over the top.... October 12, 2013
By DonnaLWhittaker
Format:Kindle Edition|Amazon Verified Purchase
You will laugh, you will cry, you will say “Oh, my God!” In Daddy’s Hands has the reader laughing and crying as each member of an extended family handles the death and funeral of a loved one in very different ways. Your family will seem very ‘normal’ as you read this novel. You will want to ‘choke’ some extended family members and want to hug the narrator and her mother-in-law.
It is not a somber funeral novel. Highly recommend!
In Daddy's Hands Reviews
Think your family is over the top.... October 12, 2013
By DonnaLWhittaker
Format:Kindle Edition|Amazon Verified Purchase
You will laugh, you will cry, you will say “Oh, my God!” In Daddy’s Hands has the reader laughing and crying as each member of an extended family handles the death and funeral of a loved one in very different ways. Your family will seem very ‘normal’ as you read this novel. You will want to ‘choke’ some extended family members and want to hug the narrator and her mother-in-law.
It is not a somber funeral novel. Highly recommend!