"With Halloween approaching, there are ghosts, goblins and witches everywhere you turn. But on bookstore shelves, wizards and vampires seem to enjoy year-round popularity, especially in the sections for young readers.
Rochester Hills writer Nancy Carabio Belanger says she doesn’t have a problem with that, but she does wonder if parents are aware of the dark and even racy themes in some of the books pre-teens are reading. Belanger said that many popular books carry some content that is too heavy for tweens. She cites the immensely popular “Twilight” series specifically, saying they include elements of violence and sexuality that may surprise unsuspecting parents.
Belanger said she doesn’t want to burn anybody’s books. But she does want parents, teachers, churches and other adults to be aware of the need for balance in a tween’s reading materials.
“You wouldn’t let your kids eat nothing but a steady diet of junk food,” she said.
Belanger is the author of “Olivia and the Little Way,” winner of the 2009 Catholic Press Association Book Award. In the book, fifth-grader Olivia moves to a new school and tries to fit in. She makes mistakes and finds help in the most unexpected places: her grandmother and St. Therese of Lisieux..."
Nancy gives us alternatives this Halloween season. Check the article here.
By the way, I love Nancy's book, Olivia and the Little way and have endorsed it.
Hello, Donna-Marie! I am so glad you like my book and have linked to this article. Especially with Halloween in a few days, the message is certainly timely. The kids in the picture you posted were just glued to the chapter I was reading, which was very cute! I am really enjoying your blog and can't wait to see your new show on EWTN. --Nancy Carabio Belanger
ReplyDeleteHi Nancy,
ReplyDeleteThanks for stopping by. The article is great. I have to say, I really loved reading your book. You know, my only time to read is at night before bed since my schedule is jam-packed. Each night I looked forward to reading what would happen next. :) I sure hope you have plans to write more books for young girls!
Thank you for your kind words about my blog.
God bless!
Donna-Marie
I just wanted to say that I recently read "Olivia and the Little Way" and I just loved it so much! It has inspired me to read "Story of a Soul" which I'm reading now. :) I hope that Ms. Belanger writes more books like that! :)
ReplyDeleteGod bless!
Jennifer
Oh, Jennifer, I'm so glad that you read it. I hope she will write more too. I have a feeling she will. :)
ReplyDeleteGod bless and hugs!
You ladies are too kind. I am halfway done with the sequel to "Olivia and the Little Way" and I hope to have it published next year! I am very excited about it. Thanks for the kind words!! God bless you!
ReplyDeleteWow, Nancy, that's great news! I was really hoping you would do a sequel. Your first book has been so well received. I knew it was when I was reading it - it's quality material. :) Your devotion to St. Therese shines through. I'll say a prayer for you as you finish writing your book.
ReplyDeleteGod bless!