Book Business
Radio is an efficient way to publicize a book. I’ve talked about Grief Doodling: Bringing Back Your Smiles on four major market stations, with two more to go. Frankie Boyer (Frankie is female) was the host on Biz Talk Radio, a network of 300 stations. Though the network is based in Texas, Frankie interviewed me from Boston. She told listeners I graduated from Wheelock College and I am a proud graduate.
Rick Dayton was the host on KDKA Radio, “the voice of Pittsburgh.” He asked good questions and I think I gave good answers. In Seattle, the host was Breanna Ruiz. Her syndicated show is on five stations, including KHTP, formerly CBS Radio, and now called Odyssey. The Philadelphia interview with Suzanne Monaghan on KYW, one of 103 AM/FM stations in the country with three call letters, was recorded via Zoom. She is the mother of twins and identified with me as the grandmother of twins. Thanks to all the radio hosts who welcomed me.
Reviews
“Harriet Hodgson is the author of 42 books. Harriet is also an artist. When her husband died recently, she used the art of doodling to cope with the tremendous loss. Beginning with the premise that doodling is fun, Hodgson uses illustrations from her own grief doodling to encourage readers to give vent to their grief. Such brief units as “Just Listen,” “Crying Speaks for You,” “Looking to Others,” and “Dandelion Wishes,” help chart a happiness course for life after loss. In my opinion, Bringing Back Your Smiles is an apt subtitle for this book.” Rating: 5 out of 5 stars. Marian Beaman. Goodreads reviewer.
“Books like this one are so important. While I am not experiencing grief currently, I can certainly see how the distraction and creativity of doodling would prove helpful for someone who is grieving but moving towards healing. There’s a special little boy in one of my classes and I intend to suggest this book.” Rating: 5 out of 5 stars. Elynana Favers, librarian and NetGalley reviewer.
“What a wonderful book! I requested it based upon the doodling part. At this time, I have no grief in my life. The author has a charming way to address grief with doodling. The book is appropriate for all ages of persons to use. She gives handy tips for the types of pens and paper to use for doodling. She mentions when the best time for doodling (anytime) and where (anywhere) to help you cope with the things that are giving you stress. There are a lot of whimsical doodles that the author gives you to use. I will use them and, using her instructions, adapt them with my own designs. This book will help you open your mind to the different possibilities for successful doodling if you are new to doodling. Highly recommended.” Tina Cay, NetGalley reviewer.
Exciting news. Ready, Set, Lead! was awarded first place in The Firebird Book Awards, family/parenting category. Co-author Kathy Kasten and I are grateful for this recognition. Our leadership book for kids ages 4-8 is available as a hardcover print book, eBook, or audiobook. It is a thoughtful gift for kids and grandkids.
From My Window
It is almost spring in Minnesota. One day people are out in shirt sleeves, the next day they are wearing winter coats. I don’t know to dress for the weather. On rainy days I exercise in the grocery store and walk the aisles four times. “Can I help you?” an employee asked. I showed her my pedometer and she smiled.
Thanks to Kathy Meyer, RN, for taking yet another photo of me. I appreciate your kindness, Kathy.
Writing is a sedentary job and I need to exercise daily. A month ago, I injured my shoulder (a long story) and spent weeks in a rocking chair watching television and taking pain medication. I gained four and a half pounds. Now that I am better, I plan to walk off these pounds. Is physical activity part of your day? I hope so.
Quote of the Month
To plant a garden is to believe in tomorrow. Audrey Hepburn. The actress is famous for her starring role in the movie “Breakfast at Tiffany’s.” She had two sons and felt her role as mother was the most important role in her life.