I'm honored to host author, Michael Thal, on my blog today. Today marks the release of his latest novel, Koolura and the Mayans (Koolura series Book 3) which is available on Amazon . I want to wish Michael the very best of luck with his new endeavor. Blurb: Koolura is no ordinary girl. Neither is her best friend Leila. While visiting Mexico, the girls discover a device which hurtles them back in time to an early Mayan civilization. The Mayans have troubles of their own—the alien Aquari people have all but enslaved them. They need a goddess to set them free. Could Koolura be the one? Excerpt: Twelve-year-old Koolura Akopyan stood in the middle of her bedroom, staring at the open suitcase on her bed. She looked at what she had already packed. “Okay, I think I have everything. Laptop and books are in the backpack. Clothes and bridesmaid’s dress in the suitcase.” She paused and flopped onto the bed. “Gosh, I can’t believe Daddy and Terri are finally getting
I am so picking this book up.
ReplyDeleteAh, thanks so much, Marlena :)
ReplyDeleteLola's story is told with sensitivity to anyone who has felt like an outcast, wished to be as pretty, popular, and confident as those around them. The teen years are defined by a need for learning who we truly are. We do this by the process of comparison. How do I measure up to everyone else, where do I fit in, why am I different, and perhaps most importantly, how do people see me? For some, the answer is clear. They see disgust in people's eyes. Ppeople turn away. Worst of all, they see the need that some people have to inflict pain. They conclude - if that is how people see me, then I'd rather not be seen at all. One can't help but be moved by Lola's literal expression of that commonly felt desire.
ReplyDeleteEven so, Lola's story is anything but depressing. In the first couple of pages, we see sparks of moxie as she lifts her chin and strides into the sunshine, hairy legs, bulging belly and all. There is a suggestion of inner strength, which Lola taps as her story progresses. Her strength is fortified by her relationship with her grandmother who accepts Lola unconditionally and provides the anchor she needs. That connection is even more poignant when seen in the light of Lola's immediate family - her pretty, petite mother, her slim, good-looking father, and her beauty-obsessed sister, none of whom know the real Lola. It isn't their fault. Lola has never trusted them enough to open up and reveal herself. Her grandmother offers the richest, most fulfilling relationship in Lola's life.