Andy and the Albino Horse by Mary Jean Kelso; KC Snider, Artist: June 2008

Photo by Scott Briscoe

People often ask where I get my story ideas.

Here's an example:

Bubba and Bridgette's Big Adventure

will be published by

Guardian Angel Publishing, Inc.

as a Tween book (ages 8 to 12) soon.

Locals in my Fernley neighborhood (Donner Trails)

had some excitement when Bridgette and Bubba

decided to visit the roundabout near Hwy 50

and the construction site for

Banner Hospital's new location.

Unfortunately, I missed the photo op

when the owners retrieved them

and Bridgette was being ridden home

with Bubba close behind at her heels.

Don't know who led who astray

but my bet is on Bubba!

You'll have to read the book

to see what a glimpse of something

can spin into.

Of course, K.C. is eager to

do the illustrations as soon as possible.

Mary Jean

THE ADVENTURES OF ANDY AND SPIRIT, BOOK 1, RELEASED -- NOW ON KINDLE!

The Adventures of Andy and Spirit, Book 1

is available for Tweens. You can see the cover of this book below.

AVAILABLE FOR KINDLE AT AMAZON'S KINDLE STORE OR MARY JEAN KELSO'S AMAZON PAGE!

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Any of the books written by Mary Jean Kelso and illustrated by KC Snider, including Andy and Spirit Meet the Rodeo Queen and the newly released tween book, The Adventures of Andy and Spirit, Book 1, can also be ordered at http://www.guardianangelpublishing.com/.

For More Information on Mary Jean Kelso go to

http://maryjeankelsoauthor.wix.com/mjkel.

For More Information on K.C. Snider go to http://kcsniderart.com.

Thanks for your interest,

KC and Mary Jean

Review -- Andy and Spirit Meet the Rodeo Queen

Another great installment to the Andy and Spirit series by Mary Jean Kelso!

Illustrated by KC Snider

Andy and Spirit visit the Nevada State Fair where they get in a ride and then watch the day’s events. Andy gets to meet the rodeo queen and learns how to handle a lasso. Despite an unfortunate accident, the rodeo is a fun time for all.

Andy and Spirit Meet the Rodeo Queen is the latest book in Kelso’s popular Andy and Spirit series. What is great about this book is that the main character is a wheelchair bound kid who doesn’t let his handicap stop him. In addition, even the people he meets don’t focus on his wheelchair. They see Andy for Andy.

Kelso creates an excellent sense in this book for what it is like to attend a rodeo. Despite the fact that I’ve never been to one, I feel like I have after reading Andy and Spirit Meet the Rodeo Queen.

The artwork for all the Andy and Spirit books has been drawn by KC Snider. I like the pairing of Kelso and Snider, and hope it continues. When an artist and writer work together on multiple projects it certainly makes a difference in the overall quality of the book and how enjoyable the reading experience is.

What adventures will Andy and Spirit find next? I guess, I’ll just have to eagerly wait and see.

Publisher: Guardian Angel Publishing, Inc

ISBN-10: 1616330317

ISBN-13: 978-1616330316

SRP: $10.95

http://childrensandteensbookconnection.wordpress.com/2010/12/01/andy-and-spirit-meet-the-rodeo-queen-by-mary-jean-kelso/

Reviews for Andy and Spirit Go to the Fair

Andy and Spirit Go to the Fair is the sweet story of a boy and a horse, their bond and loyalty to one another, and the challenges they must face because of being 'different'. K.C. Snider's colorful yet earthy illustrations bring the spirit of the West to life and children will particularly love the beautiful, majestic pictures of the horses. An inspiring tale about overcoming obstacles, this book carries a universal message that will be enjoyed by children and adults alike. Mayra Calvani, Midwest Book Review
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I absolutely loved the story of Andy and Spirit. It took me back to my childhood when I was able to visit the fair. I could smell all the delicious aroma of food drifting from the stands. The anxiety that Andy experiences, this reader could share along with him. I thought the way Spirit and Andy had an understanding toward the other was well-written and lends a great deal of warmth to the storyline. Spirit was slightly different as well as Andy, and they both were able to understand the other. Mary Jean Kelso creates a story that melts the heart and brings a smile to the face. I love her style of writing. She reaches into her heart and brings forth a budding story that will thrill the readers while leaving a wonderful feeling inside. The illustrations by K.C. Snider almost leap from the pages; they are so life-like. Every little detail and sketching is remarkably done, making this story one incredible read. Linda Lattimer, Reviewer
* * * * * *
See the review by Reviews by Heidi
http://www.homeschoolblogger.com/ReviewsbyHeidi
* * * * * * * *
Publisher's Comment:
Nice review. I still tear up even though reading Andy over and over- and I love to belt out the music to Andy too.
Lynda S. Burch, Publisher
http://www.guardianangelpublishing.com/
* * * * * * *
Yes, everyone, Andy and Spirit do have their own song called "Heroes" written by Janie Robinson and Gary Lowery. For a preview go to www.myspace.com/janiejazzgirl .

Reviews for "Andy and Spirit In The Big Rescue"

Andy & Spirit in the Big Rescue is a marvelous read. Mary Jean Kelso depicts real life in pages that consume the reader, while educating him/her about horses. With every turn of the page, I found myself riding right along with Andy and his adventures. Ms. Kelso pens a read where she allows the reader to interact, while providing the thrill of the horses, the bull, and the whole ambiance to make the story more believable. K.C. Snider’s illustrations enhance the story even further by sketching scenes that, when mixed with the text, makes the story leap from the pages.
Another exhilarating read!
Linda Lattimer, Reviewer
http://www.coffeetimeromance.com/OurAuthors/LindaLLattimer/Home.html

Interaction with the Kids and their Reaction to Andy and the Albino Horse

Fernley Elementary School recently asked Mary Jean to participate in their celebration of Book Week.
Mary Jean read Andy and the Albino Horse to approximately 200 very attentive second grade students.
The reaction of the students was one of awe and amazement. They were enthralled with the story and enjoyed that some of the illustrations K.C. painted represented the area they live in.
The story and the pictures brought the Nevada wild mustang and Andy to life in a way they appreciated and hopefully will help them relate in a positive way to individuals and animals with handicaps.

Guardian Angel Publishing Inc. Makes World Wide Announcement

Lynda S. Burch, Publisher at Guardian Angel Publishing, Inc. announced today that, "Guardian Angel Publishing's global presence will continue to grow as Ingram Content Group, both Guardian Angel's innovative printer and distributor, partner and purchase more facilities around the world."

Expansion continues with the launch of Global CONNECT, a print and distribution service and a network of book manufacturers around the world, forms its alliance with Brazil's Singular Digital in Rio De Janeiro.

The Brazil addition joins Ingram-owned facilities in the U.S., U.K., Australia and France.

UPDATE!! September 26, 2012
Lynda S. Burch, President of Guardian Angel Publishing, Inc announced that GAP books will begin distribution in Germany as well as Brazil!!!!!

K.C. Snider and Donna McDine Receive Literary Classics' Youth Media International Book Award

Rapid City, SD, October 21, 2011 --(PR.com)-- Literary Classics announced its 2011 selection of top books for children and young adults today. Award recipients were selected from entries received throughout the world. The Literary Classics selection committee is proud to recognize the following titles in children's and young adult literature which exemplify the criteria set forth by the Literary Classics Awards committee.

A fulll list of the 2011 award recipients can be found at http://www.pr.com/press-release/362367.

Silver Award Recipient -- The Golden Pathway

Written by Donna M. McDine, illustrated by K.C. Snider

Other Children's Picture Books Illustrated by KC Snider

The Magic Violin, Does Heaven Get Mail?, Alley Cat, Andy and the Albino Horse, Andy and Spirit Go to the Fair, Andy and Spirit in the Big Rescue, Andy and Spirit Meet the Rodeo Queen, The Adventures of Andy and Spirit, Book 1, The Christmas Angel, One Family's Christmas, RV Mouse, Preston the Not-So-Perfect Pig, Cartwheel Annie, Ruthie and the Hippo's Fat Behind, The Golden Pathway, A Short Tale About a Long Tail, Katie Didn't, A Star in the Night, Fredrico the Mouse Violinist, I Don't Want a Haircut, Baby Jesus is Missing, Monster Maddie, Stilts the Stork, What is that Thing?, The Milk Horse, Cowboy James, Get Your Manners Out of Your Pocket, God Loves You Whoever You Are. Coming Soon: The Town of Masquerade, Andy and Spirit in Search and Rescue.

About The Author

Mary Jean Kelso is an award-winning (Best Spot News 2008 Award from The Nevada Press Assoc. and Best Spot News 2009 from The National Press Association)) multi-genre' author who has written for many newspapers and magazines throughout her life besides writing Young Adult novels, Historical Romances for adults and Childrens Picture Books. She also worked as an Editor for pharmaceutical magazines and as a Customer Services Representative for a Raytheon Company. Mary Jean started writing as a young child when her father acquired what would, now, be called an antique typewriter and moved forward with newer and better equipment until electric typewriters came into being and got in on the beginning of word processors and computers. Because of the family history, which Mary Jean is deeply interested in, her adult novels have mostly been set in the time of Cowboys and Indians. She is the great-great-grandaughter of Catherine McCucheon Jennings who led the settlers on the Runaway Scrape after Mary Jean's great-great-grandfather, Gordon C. Jennings, was killed at the Alamo. Her great-grandfather, Samuel Jennings, was a Texas Ranger. Because of a generous supply of historical figures on both sides of her family, Mary Jean has felt it extremly valuable to introduce young people to history and geneaology. So, you will see this in historic settings in her books. She works hard to be true to factual places and happenings even though writing fiction. "If you know where you come from, perhaps you can figure out where you are going or why you are trying to get there," Mary Jean says. Mary Jean has just had six more contracts signed. Mary Jean has completed the fifth and sixth Andy books that follow Andy and Spirit in the Big Rescue and Andy and Spirit Meet the Rodeo Queen. The latest will be Andy and Spirit Go on a Day Count and Andy and Spirit in Search and Rescue and Andy and Spirit Ride a Train. She is now hard at work on number 8. The 4th in ithe Andy and Spirit series, Andy and Spirit Meet the Rodeo Queen, recently released. RV Mouse released in March 2010. Knowing that the Andy stories are appropriate for older children, Guardian Angel Publishing released the first four Andy books as a Tween book as The Adventures of Andy and Spirit, Book 1.

Cowboy James, the story about a little boy in Pee Wee Rodeo released in August 2011. It is Mary Jean's first hardcover book and is available in all formats.

The next adventue of Andy and Spirit -- Andy and Spirit in Search and Rescue is soon to be released. It is a story about a dog that has been dumped and needs rescued. Andy, Spirit and Tracy go in search of her and then must figure out why she keeps running back to where they found her. The exciting news about these the book is that it will also be available in both hardback and soft cover as well as a varitey of digital formats.

KC and Mary Jean hope you enjoy the stories and adventures Andy and Spirit have together. For a wonderful song about the two of them, look for "Heroes" by Janie Robinson. Listen to a preview at www.myspace.com/janiejazzgirl

Monday, June 16, 2008

Another illustration

Andy races to catch up with his best friend Spirit and her owner Tracy.

Andy And Spirit Go To The Fair

The next book in the series is ready for publication. The illustrations look great. We can't wait for the unveiling. Publication date is set for this month.

What Inspired Writing this Series from Mary Jean

Inspiration for the Andy series came about from one of K.C.s paintings.

When we did the signing for The Christmas Angel at The Western Art Roundup in Winnemucca last year, I saw the painting K.C. had done of a horse with crooked ears. On the drive home that night I kept thinking about horses with disabilities and knew I had to write something along that line.

I tried to think of some other flaw a horse might have that would make it be rejected by the herd. One morning the minute I woke up the word "albino" popped into my head.

Writing is a logical process for me. One sentence leads to another and another. I had no idea I was going to write about a therapy horse and a boy with disabilities but the two seemed to come together naturally since they both had physical problems and both were targets to be bullied--the boy by a classmate and the horse by the other horses.

I planned to write only one book about Andy and the Albino Horse but K.C. verbally "sold" the idea to the publisher and when she read the first book she informed me she would send a contract for it but as a series. So, we have a basically open-ended contract for however many books I write with Andy and Spirit that the publisher likes. As long as the readers enjoy the books we'll try to keep them coming.

For me the fun is the creative process when I am getting the surprises as I write just like the reader gets them when they read.

Andy and Spirit -- Two Years Out

As K.C. and I prepare to head for Winnemucca, NV for this year's Western Art Roundup it seems appropriate to update you on what has transpired in this two year journey with Andy and Spirit.

In 2007 the very germ of a story idea began to form after Mary Jean left the book signing she and K.C. had done to launch their first children's picture book through Guardian Angel Publishing, Inc. Their first book project together The Christmas Angel had recently been released. With K.C. artwork on display, it seemed like a natural place to introduce the new adventure.

During the day, one of K.C.'s paintings inspired Mary Jean to write a story about a horse.

"I couldn't get the image of that horse K.C. had painted out of my head as I was driving back home after dark on I-80 with nothing but freeway for two hours." Determined to write one book about a horse with a disadvantage, Mary Jean turned the idea over and over trying to figure out how this one piece could fit into a full story. Because the horse had to have a human, Andy came into the picture and the rest is history, as they say.

K.C. "pitched" the idea of the Andy series to Lynda Burch and thus Andy and Spirit will have adventures as long as Mary Jean can come up with new ideas. There are three books in the series in the "pipeline" and more to be written.

Now, preparing for the next book signing at the Western Art Roundup and looking back, Mary Jean and K.C. have seen five of their books in print, One about to release (The RV Mouse) and the cover for the 4th, Andy and Spirit Meet the Rodeo Queen, done. K.C. has illustrated many books for other Guardian Angel authors.

K.C. won eleven awards last year including The Indian Heritage Award and the Pioneer Heritage Award as well as many ribbons and honorable mentions. One of the First Place Gold ribbons went to a display of three of the original Andy and Spirit Go to the Fair watercolors. Now that book has Award Winning illustrations and we are very proud of them as well as the award for them. She will be entering another triple set of paintings from the Andy series this year.

Andy and Spirit - 3 years out

Since the first Andy book, Andy and the Albino Horse, released, K.C. and Mary Jean have been busy promoting the series and other children's books produced by Guardian Angel Publishing, Inc.
Andy and the Albino Horse, Andy and Spirit Go to the Fair, Andy and Spirit in the Big Rescue, Andy and Spirit Meet the Rodeo Queen and a tween book, The Adventures of Andy and Spirit, Book 1 have all been released in this short time.
Mary Jean has been busy writing more adventures for the two as well as several other childlren's books.
K.C. is well occupied illustrating not only the Andy books, but others Mary Jean has written and branched out to illustrate several other GAP authors' books as well.
Since the GAP authors and artists are gathering in Saint Louis in September, we won't be attending the Winnemucca Art Roundup this year.
Instead K.C. will be demonstrating illustration at the Children's Illustrators Museum in Saint Louis where many of the books produced by Guardian Angel Publishing are on display. There will be a big book signing at a major book store so if you are in the Saint Louis area, look for these events and come meet the authors, illustrators and publisher!

Andy and Spirit 4 years out

Andy and Spirit in Search and Rescue
KC recently finished the cover art for this latest book. We are awaiting title text to be added before putting it up on the site. She will be working the illustrations for this book -- #5 in the Andy series. I think everyone will enjoy the story of a dog in need of rescue.
Some history: the first four books are compiled into a Tween book resulting in The Adventures of Andy and Spirit. It has recently been adapted for the Kindle and is on Amazon both as a print book and in the Kindle Store for ebook readers. It is also available from other digital outlets and Guardian Angel Publishing, Inc. in a variety of formats.
This latest edition, Andy and Spirit in Search and Rescue, involves the main characters searching for a dog that has been dumped and is wandering around near a ranch. No matter what happens the dog keeps returning to the same spot. Why? Find out when you read the book which should be available soon.
Mary Jean continues to write new stories for the series as well as other childrens' books and young adult and adult novels. Her second in the Lynne Garrett series (#1-Goodbye Is Forever) #2) No Time for Goodbye will release in March 2012 with a cover displaying some of the beautiful buildings in Virginia City, NV.
Recently accepted by Guardian Angel Publishing, Inc. are Andy and Spirit Ride a Train and Birds in the Flower Basket.
Guardian Angel Publishing released Cowboy James in August 2011. It is in paperback and hardback and all digital formats including downloads and DVD.
Andy and Spirit are "alive and well." Seven books are written with illustrations done or to be done by KC. She is working on the artwork for the fifth in the series, Andy and Spirit in Search and Rescue. Six and seven are in the queue. No. eight is under construction.
If you would like to suggest a subject for and Andy book please email Mary Jean at MJKEL@aol.com
We thank you for your continued support. Enjoy!

Andy and the Albino Horse by Mary Jean Kelso; KC Snider, Artist

Total Pageviews

First in the Series - click image to go direct to order page

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BRAILLE EDITION OF ANDY AND THE ALBINO HORSE RELEASED

TEXAS A-ONE HORSE THERAPY TRAINING

CONTACT INFO:

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2015 BOOK SIGNINGS AND ARTIST/AUTHOR EVENTS

NEW -- TWO ANDY BOOKS RELEASED IN HARDCOVER

NEWS OF THE DAY

Photo by Scott Briscoe

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NEWEST FILLY ON A TEXAS RANCH

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MORE ON THE ANDY AND THE ALBINO HORSE SERIES

Article in Reno, NV paper about the "Andy" series

SPECIAL NEEDS BOOK REVIEWS GUEST BLOG & INTERVIEW ABOUT THE SERIES

THE ALBINO HORSE Book Trailer

WHERE TO BUY THE ANDY BOOKS OR OTHERS BY MARY JEAN KELSO or K.C. SNIDER

Andy's Animated Horse -- click on Spirit to see her move. Click "more" to brush or feed her an apple

GREAT PHOTO

Special Ed Teacher, Cheri Ascue, shared this photo with us.

JULY 2013 RELEASE -- AVAILABLE NOW

THE ADVENTURES OF ANDY AND SPIRIT, BOOK 1, RELEASED -- NOW ON KINDLE!

Andy and Spirit Go To The Fair

ANDY AND SPIRIT IN THE BIG RESCUE

Andy & Spirit Meet the Rodeo Queen

Andy and Spirit Meet the Rodeo Queen

Review -- Andy and Spirit Meet the Rodeo Queen

First Place Award

Preditors & Editors Readers Poll Lists Andy books and RV Mouse as finalists

Reviews for Andy and Spirit Go to the Fair

Reviews for "Andy and Spirit In The Big Rescue"

Interaction with the Kids and their Reaction to Andy and the Albino Horse

Other Books Written by Mary Jean Kelso and Illustrated by KC Snider

Cowboy James places 11th at Preditors and Editors Poll

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Books by Mary Jean Kelso

Guardian Angel Publishing's FREE Magazine for Kids

Guardian Angel Publishing Inc. Makes World Wide Announcement

Literary Classics Award Winning Book

K.C. Snider and Donna McDine Receive Literary Classics' Youth Media International Book Award

KC at The Deschutes County Fair

Mary Jean Guest Blogger on Joanne Troppello's Website

Other Books From Guardian Angel Publishing

Other Children's Picture Books Illustrated by KC Snider

About The Author

About The Illustrator

Monday, June 16, 2008

Another illustration

Andy And Spirit Go To The Fair

Society of Childrens Book Writers and Illustrators

What Inspired Writing this Series from Mary Jean

Andy and Spirit -- Two Years Out

Andy and Spirit - 3 years out

Andy and Spirit 4 years out

Andy Series Titles in Print and to be Released

Links List

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