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Media Kit Vanessa Fortenberry
bqbpublishing.com | [email protected] | p:678.316.4150 | f:678.951.0564
Vanessa Fortenberry
Inspirational Author and Speaker
Media Kit Vanessa Fortenberry
bqbpublishing.com | [email protected] | p:678.316.4150 | f:678.951.0564
Published Date 10/1/2017
Daddy, I Want to Know God Book Trailer
Media Kit Vanessa Fortenberry
bqbpublishing.com | [email protected] | p:678.316.4150 | f:678.951.0564
“Winner” in the “Children’s Religious” category of the 2017 Bookvana
Awards
“Award-Winning Finalists” in the “Children’s Religious” category of
the 2016 Best Book Awards
Media Kit Vanessa Fortenberry
bqbpublishing.com | [email protected] | p:678.316.4150 | f:678.951.0564
Media Kit Contents
Short Bio
Long Bio
Contact Info & Social Media Links
Synopsis (Information Sheet) Includes Daddy, I Want to Know God and Mama, I Want to See God
Press Coverage
Sample Interview Questions
Sample Author Questions & Answers
Speaking/Workshop Topics
Info for Christian Schools and Churches
Publicity Photos
Marketing Products
Sample Illustrations and Text
Media Kit Vanessa Fortenberry
bqbpublishing.com | [email protected] | p:678.316.4150 | f:678.951.0564
Short Bio
A teacher-librarian, reading, and former music teacher; Vanessa Fortenberry is a true Georgia Peach
having lived in the Atlanta metro area all her life. Inspired by her grandson, Vanessa wrote the
“award-winning” children’s verse story, Mama, I Want to See God published by Boutique of Quality
Books (BQB). This story is the first book in the series, Families Growing in Faith. Daddy, I Want to
Know God launched October 1, 2017. Vanessa enjoys singing for the Lord and baking homemade
goods for her loved ones. To learn more about Vanessa and her other writing endeavors, please visit
her website. www.vanessafortenberry.com
Media Kit Vanessa Fortenberry
bqbpublishing.com | [email protected] | p:678.316.4150 | f:678.951.0564
Long Bio
A teacher-librarian, reading, and former music teacher; Vanessa Fortenberry is a true Georgia
Peach having lived in the Atlanta metro area all her life. Inspired by her grandson, Vanessa wrote the
“award-winning” children’s verse story, Mama, I Want to See God published by Boutique of Quality
Books (BQB). This story echoes the ways in which young readers inquisitively want to know if they
can see God and if they look like Him. This story is the first book in the series, Families Growing in
Faith. The second book in the series, Daddy, I Want to Know God launched October 1, 2017.
As a young girl, Vanessa wrote plays, poetry, and short stories. Fascinated with words, she was also
an avid reader. In college, Vanessa soon found herself in a predicament of having to choose between
English or Music as her major. Her love of music prevailed and she initiated studies in Music
Education with a concentration in Voice.
After graduation, Vanessa still could not escape the appeal of the “written word.” She continued to
write poetry and commenced to write a romance novel. Well . . . life caught up with Vanessa and she
found herself abandoning her dreams of writing.
Years later, Vanessa taught general music, chorus, and voice where she excelled in passing on her
love of music to her students. However, her continued passion for books, reading, and research soon
led Vanessa to return to school for her Master’s and Specialist degrees in Media. As a recently retired
teacher-librarian, Vanessa enjoyed story time with her students and took pleasure in reading the
“book of the month” with her reading club students. Vanessa’s interest in how children learn to read
and how to teach best practices in the reading process fascinated her. Consequently, she earned a
Reading endorsement in 2009.
When asked about her dreams for the future, Vanessa would always respond, “to write a book.”
However, she could never pinpoint the genre or audience. In 2010, while exercising at the gym,
Vanessa mistakenly (how many of you know it was not a mistake?) turned the TV channel to the 700
Club. A conversation about how “God knows us and knows us by name,” quickly gained her
attention. God spoke to Vanessa and she went home to write the first of many motivational stories
for children. Additionally, her love of music inspired her to write songs to accompany several of her
writing projects.
Vanessa continues to develop her craft by participating in writers organizations. She is a member of
The Christian Authors Guild (www.christianauthorsguild.org), where she is also a contributor to the
book, Relief Notes: Encouraging Letters for Tough Times, the Stonecrest Writing Support Group, and
Media Kit Vanessa Fortenberry
bqbpublishing.com | [email protected] | p:678.316.4150 | f:678.951.0564
she was previously a contributing writer for her church newsletter publication, The Anchor. In
addition, Vanessa is a member of Christian Authors on Tour and the Society of Children’s Book
Writers and Illustrators (SCBWI).
Vanessa also wrote an article, Encouraging Your Reader published in the June 2012 edition of the
Guardian Angel Kids Ezine (www.guardian-angel-kids.com). She invites you to subscribe to her blog,
Children’s Bookroom and to her quarterly newsletter, Connecting Readers to the Word.
Vanessa is available for speaking engagements, writing workshops, interviews, and appearances. She
is also happy to speak to children’s groups, churches, schools, reading, and writing groups.
Vanessa savors the moments she spends with her family and friends, as well as baking delicious
desserts for her loved ones.
Media Kit Vanessa Fortenberry
bqbpublishing.com | [email protected] | p:678.316.4150 | f:678.951.0564
Contact Info
To contact Vanessa please email her:
vfortenberry11[at]gmail.com
Media Kit Vanessa Fortenberry
bqbpublishing.com | [email protected] | p:678.316.4150 | f:678.951.0564
ISBN 978-1-939371-64-5 (Paperback) ISBN 978-1-939371-65-2 (Casewrap Hardcover) ISBN 978-1-939371-66-9 (eBook) Price: $9.95 (Paperback); $17.95 (Hardcover); $6.99 (eBook) Category: Juvenile Fiction/Christian/Emotions & Learning Concepts Age group: 5- to 7-year-olds 8 x 10, 30 pages with 20 full-color illustrations Publication date: October 1, 2017 Book 1 in the Families Growing in Faith Series: Mama, I Want to See God 978-1-939371-32-4 (Paperback); 978-1-939371-08-9 (eBook).
About the Book Daddy, how well does God know me? Does He love me all the time? Will God ever leave me? In this rhyming story, children’s probing questions show their desire to learn more about God and His love for them. Compassionate and loving responses from their dads help to lead the children in growing a strong Godly faith. This story depicts the spiritual leadership of fathers as they teach their children about a caring, unfailing, and capable God. About the Author Born and raised in Atlanta, Georgia, Vanessa Fortenberry wrote plays, poetry, and short stories as a young girl. After graduating college with a degree in music education with a concentration in voice, Vanessa taught general music, chorus, and voice. But, Vanessa’s passion for books, reading, and research soon led her to return to school for her master’s and specialist degrees in Media. Inspired by her grandson’s curiosity about wanting to see God, Vanessa wrote the verse story, Mama, I Want to See God. Vanessa savors the moments she spends with her family and friends, as well as baking delicious desserts for her loved ones. To learn more about Vanessa, visit her website: www.vanessafortenberry.com.
Media Kit Vanessa Fortenberry
bqbpublishing.com | [email protected] | p:678.316.4150 | f:678.951.0564
ByAAVanessa Fortenberry | Leah in
ISBN 978‐1‐939371‐32‐4 (Paperback)
ISBN 978‐1‐939371‐07‐2 (Hardcover)
ISBN 978‐1‐939371‐08‐9 (eBook) Price: $12.95 (Paperback); $19.95 (Hardcover);
$6.99 (eBook)
Category: Juvenile Fiction/Christian/Emotions &
Concepts
Age group: 4‐ to 8‐year‐olds
8 x 10, 30 pages with 20 full‐color illustrations Publication date: February 26, 2014
About the Book Do I look like God? Where can I see Him? Wanting to
connect more with God, a child asks his mother these
questions and more in this rhyming verse book. In
answer, Mother’s tender and patient responses model
God’s love.
At the story’s end, Mother has answered all of the
questions, allowing the child to have a true connection
with God. The purity of children and the spirituality of
all cultures radiate in this touching story.
About the Author
Born and raised in Atlanta, Georgia, Vanessa
Fortenberry wrote plays, poetry, and short stories as a
young girl. After graduating college with a degree in
music education with a concentration in voice,
Vanessa taught general music, chorus, and voice.
Years later, Vanessa’s passion for books, reading, and
research soon led her to return to school for her
master’s and specialist degrees in Media. Presently, as
a teacher-librarian, Vanessa enjoys story time with her
students.
Inspired by her grandson’s curiosity about wanting to
see God, Vanessa wrote the verse story, Mama, I
Want to See God. Vanessa savors the moments she
spends with her family and friends, as well as baking
delicious desserts for her loved ones. To learn more
about Vanessa, visit her website:
www.vanessafortenberry.com.
Media Kit Vanessa Fortenberry
bqbpublishing.com | [email protected] | p:678.316.4150 | f:678.951.0564
Press Coverage
Contact: Vanessa Fortenberry FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE 770-401-4367 [email protected]
Inspirational Author and Speaker Invites Families to a Cozy Conversation on Fathers,
Families, Faith, and Literacy
Decatur, GA, – September 23, 2017 – Local Author, Vanessa Fortenberry’s new picture book, Daddy, I Want to Know God, reinforces the powerful bond between fathers and their children while speaking to the spiritual questions of early childhood. This rhyming verse book launches October 2017 (BQB Publishing) and Fortenberry invites families to hear the story at the Wesley Chapel –William C. Brown Library, sponsored by the Friends of the Library, 2861 Wesley Chapel Road, Decatur, GA on October 7 at 1:00 p.m. Children’s activities and prizes will accompany the presentation and book signing.
“Fathers play a fundamental role in the family and they impact their children’s lives,” says Fortenberry, who is also a teacher- librarian in the DeKalb County School District. “In a society that often diminishes the value of fathers; I want to celebrate fathers who influence their children when nurturing them with God’s Word.” Families Growing in Faith is the name of Fortenberry’s picture book series, with Daddy, I Want to Know God as the second title. Mama, I Want to See God, a 2017 Bookvana Award Winner in the “Children’s Religious” category, as well as a 2016 Best Book Awards finalist in the “Children’s Religious” category, was released in 2014 (BQB Publishing).
An early endorsement for Daddy, I Want to Know God comes from bestselling author Crystal Bowman:
“Through a sweet conversation between a father and child, the Gospel message is clearly presented in a kid-
friendly format. Simple, yet powerful truths make this book a great resource for families with young children.”
Bowman is the author of over 100 books for children.
In addition to the William C. Brown Library event, Fortenberry will also appear at the Stonecrest Chick-fil-A
(Outside the Mall), in Lithonia, GA on October 14 at 8:30 a.m., and at Sights and Sounds Black Cultural Expo
Museum at North DeKalb Mall, in Decatur, GA on October 15 at 2:30 p.m.
Media Kit Vanessa Fortenberry
bqbpublishing.com | [email protected] | p:678.316.4150 | f:678.951.0564
Daddy, I Want to Know God is available through BQB’s online store, Amazon, Barnes & Noble, or any online
stores.
About the Author: A music teacher turned teacher-librarian; Vanessa Fortenberry enjoys story time with her
students at Redan Elementary in Lithonia, GA. She is a true Georgia Peach having lived in the Atlanta metro
area all her life. When not working on a writing project, Vanessa loves baking desserts for her family and
friends, as well as singing for the Lord and teaching Sunday school at her church, Antioch AME, located in
Stone Mountain, GA. To learn more about Vanessa and her other writing endeavors, please visit her website:
www.vanessafortenberry.com
###
Media Kit Vanessa Fortenberry
bqbpublishing.com | [email protected] | p:678.316.4150 | f:678.951.0564
Press Coverage
Contact: Terri Leidich, BQB Publishing President FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
678.316.4150 [email protected]
Author Vanessa Fortenberry Releases Children's Book That Seeks to Connect Young Readers with God
DECATUR, Ga. - Feb. 10, 2014 - Children have many questions. Author Vanessa Fortenberry believes there is no better way to answer them than through stories. On Wednesday, February 26, 2014, the publication of
her first book, Mama I Want to See God (BQB Publishing), tackles the mysteries and miracles of the Christian faith in rhyming verse.
Written for children aged four to eight, Fortenberry's debut tells the story of a curious child's conversation with
his mother. Inspired by her grandson, the book discusses questions such as "Do I look like God?" and "Where
can I see Him?" in an effort to more fully connect young readers with their spirituality.
"As a Christian writer, God gave me an important assignment to teach children about God through life lesson
stories," says Fortenberry. "So it becomes even more imperative to introduce children to the Word and prayer,
so they may gain knowledge about God, which will ultimately draw them closer to Him."
The launch event for Mama, I Want to See God will be held at the Wesley Chapel of the William C. Brown
Library in Decatur, Georgia on March 1, 2014 from 1:30 to 4:00 p.m. Fortenberry will lead a program entitled
"Literature and Libraries: Influencing Children's Lives Through Life Lesson Stories," before answering questions
and signing books. Children's activities and prizes will accompany the presentation.
Mama, I Want to See God will be released in paperback and eBook and is available for preorder
through http://www.bqbpublishing.com/shop/, booksellers around the country, Amazon, and Barnes and
Noble.
###
6736 Jamestown Drive, Alpharetta, GA 30005-3030 www.BQBPublishing.com
Media Kit Vanessa Fortenberry
bqbpublishing.com | [email protected] | p:678.316.4150 | f:678.951.0564
About the Author
Born and raised in Atlanta, Georgia, Vanessa Fortenberry wrote plays, poetry, and short stories as a young
girl. After graduating with a degree in music education, Vanessa taught general music, chorus, and voice:
however, Vanessa's passion for books, reading, and research soon led her to return to school for her master's
and specialist degrees in Media. Now a teacher-librarian, Vanessa enjoys story time with her students, savors
the moments she spends with her family and friends, and bakes delicious desserts for her loved ones. To learn
more about Vanessa, visit her website: http://www.vanessafortenberry.com
About BQB Publishing
Founded in August of 2010, BQB was created to be “the writer’s publisher,” focusing on quality writing from
new authors. An independent hybrid publisher, BQB combines the quality processes of traditional publishing
with hands-on author involvement to bring today’s new writers and tomorrow’s best sellers into the hands of
booksellers and the reading public. To learn more about BQB’s publishing process and submission guidelines,
visit www.bqbpublishing.com.
Media Kit Vanessa Fortenberry
bqbpublishing.com | [email protected] | p:678.316.4150 | f:678.951.0564
Contact: Vanessa Fortenberry FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE 770-401-4367
Local Inspirational Speaker and Author Presents Writing Workshop
Decatur, GA – Join Vanessa Fortenberry, retired DeKalb County teacher-librarian and author for a free writer’s workshop on Saturday, July 30, 2016, 11:00 a.m. – 2:00 p.m., at the Wesley Chapel-William C. Brown Library, 2861 Wesley Chapel Road, Decatur.
Fortenberry, the author of the illustrated Christian children’s book, Mama I Want to See God, which was published by BQB Publishing in 2014, will present “Writing 101: The Importance of the 3 R’s.” The workshop will provide writers with guidance in the basic elements of story development, purpose, audience, and genre from beginning research to honing their manuscripts. Fortenberry will also provide information on the publishing process. This workshop is for aspiring writers of all ages, in all genres, and at all skill levels. For additional information, call 404-286-6980. About the Author A retired librarian, reading, and music teacher, Vanessa Fortenberry is a true Georgia Peach having lived in the Atlanta metro area all her life. Inspired by her grandson, Vanessa wrote the children’s verse story, Mama, I Want to See God, which is the first book in the Families Growing in Faith series. Daddy, I
want to Know God, the second book in the series will be released in October 2017. Vanessa enjoys singing for the Lord and baking homemade goods for her loved ones. To learn more about Vanessa and her other writing endeavors, please visit her website: www.vanessafortenberry.com.
Media Kit Vanessa Fortenberry
bqbpublishing.com | [email protected] | p:678.316.4150 | f:678.951.0564
About the Publisher
BQB Publishing is the fiction imprint of Boutique of Quality Books Publishing, an independent, award-winning book publisher. Under their two imprints — BQB Publishing and WriteLife Publishing — they combine the high quality you’ve come to expect from traditional publishers with hands-on, in-depth author involvement to bring cutting edge books from fresh authors to the marketplace. www.bqbpublishing.com
Media Kit Vanessa Fortenberry
bqbpublishing.com | [email protected] | p:678.316.4150 | f:678.951.0564
Tucker-Reid H. Cofer Library, 5234 Lavista Rd, Tucker, GA 30084
2018 DCPL Author Expo
March 24, 2018
Gallery of South DeKalb Mall, 2801 Candler Road, Decatur, GA 30034
Spring into Reading Presented by The Decatur Alumnae Chapter of Delta Sigma Theta Sorority, Inc.
March 3, 2018
Wesley Chapel –William C. Brown Library, 2861 Wesley Chapel Road, Decatur, GA
Jubilee of Reading for Children
March 3, 2018
Opelika Book Bash 2018, Chirpwood Gallery, Opelika, AL
Author’s Book Signing
February 3, 2018
Nancy Quinn Memorial Library, 864 Green St SW, Conyers, GA 30012
Book Launch # 4
November 18, 2017
Sights and Sounds Black Cultural Expo Museum at North DeKalb Mall, Decatur, GA
Book Launch # 3
October 15, 2017
Nancy Quinn Memorial Library, 864 Green St SW, Conyers, GA 30012
Book Signing and Author Expo
October 14, 2017
Stonecrest Chick-fil-A, 2985 Turner Hill Toad, Lithonia, GA 30038
Book Launch # 2
October 14, 2017
Media Kit Vanessa Fortenberry
bqbpublishing.com | [email protected] | p:678.316.4150 | f:678.951.0564
3 Questions Wednesday with Vanessa Fortenberry
Bookin’ Around Town Interview with Vanessa Fortenberry
Wesley Chapel –William C. Brown Library, 2861 Wesley Chapel Road, Decatur, GA
Book Launch # 1
October 7, 2017
Stonecrest Library, 3123 Klondike Road, Stonecrest, GA 30038
Author’s Book Signing
October 4, 2017
Bookvana Winner: Children's Religious
Barnes and Noble Bookstore, 217 Caroline St NE, Atlanta, GA
Summer Author’s Night
July 19, 2017
Tougaloo College, Tougaloo, MS
Christian Authors on Tour Literary, Writers Forum, Story time, and Book Signing
May 20, 2017
Nancy Guinn Memorial Library, Conyers, GA
Friends of the Library Guest Speaker and Book Signing
April 29, 2017
The Royal Pen Network with author Kendra Norman Holmes Radio
The Christian Authors on Tour Interview
March 22, 2017
Nancy Guinn Memorial Library, Conyers, GA
Book Signing- Local Authors Expo
March 18, 2017
Media Kit Vanessa Fortenberry
bqbpublishing.com | [email protected] | p:678.316.4150 | f:678.951.0564
35th Area IV Leadership Conference Literacy Luncheon and Book Signing, Atlanta, GA
March 17, 2017
GateKeepers Ministry Broadcast Speaker: Living Perpetually in the Presence of God
May 11, 2017
GateKeepers Ministry Broadcast Speaker: My Story in the Bible
February 9, 2017
Sights and Sounds Black Cultural Expo Museum at North DeKalb Mall, Decatur, GA
Black History Showcase: Guest Singer and Author/Book Signing
February 4, 2017
Award-Winning Finalist in the “Children’s Religious” Category of the 2016 Best Book Awards
November 2016
Decatur Book Festival
September 3-4, 2016
“Writing 101: The Importance of the 3 R’s” Workshop- DeKalb County Public Library-
Wesley Chapel Branch
July 30, 2016
Book Exchange, 2932 Canton Road, Marietta, GA 30066
Book Signing
July 14, 2016
Friends and Neighbors (WATC-57) Interview: Faith-based TV station (airs throughout the metro Atlanta
market)
July 14, 2016
“Just Write” Workshop- DeKalb County Public Library-Wesley Chapel Branch
July 9, 2016
Media Kit Vanessa Fortenberry
bqbpublishing.com | [email protected] | p:678.316.4150 | f:678.951.0564
Group Honors DeKalb County Teacher (AJC.com) news article
July 1, 2016
Saint Phillip AME Church, 240 Candler Road, Atlanta, GA 30317
Book Signing
June 19, 2016
Christian Authors Guild- Coffee & Quill Mini Writers Conference
Book Signing
April 16, 2016
FoxTale Book Shoppe’s Emerging Authors/Friday Night Live Event
Book Signing
April 1, 2016
Career Day-Venetian Hills Elementary School, Atlanta, GA
January 26, 2016
Sights and Sounds Black Cultural Expo Museum at North DeKalb Mall, Decatur, GA
Authors Showcase
January 9 & 23, 2016
Sights and Sounds Black Cultural Expo Museum at North DeKalb Mall, Decatur, GA
Give Your Loved Ones the Gift of Reading Authors Showcase
December 12, 2015
Guest Blog: Jennifer Slattery Lives Out Loud-
“Unpack Your Talents”
December 3, 2015
http://jenniferslatterylivesoutloud.com/2015/12/03/unpack-your-talents
Career Day-Beecher Hills Elementary School, Atlanta, GA
November 12, 2015
Media Kit Vanessa Fortenberry
bqbpublishing.com | [email protected] | p:678.316.4150 | f:678.951.0564
Guest Blog: Jennifer Hallmark, Alabama Inspired Fiction
Small Acts of Kindness- “A Compassionate Heart”
October 19, 2015
https://jenniferhallmark.com/2015/10/19/a-compassionate-heart
Author’s Reception, GA Como, Athens, GA
October 8, 2015
Christian Authors Guild
Devotion- “Unpack Your Talents”
August 20-22, 2015
Sights and Sounds Black Cultural Expo Museum at North DeKalb Mall, Decatur, GA
Authors Showcase & Music History Lesson for Children
August 8, 2015
Sights and Sounds Black Cultural Expo Museum at North DeKalb Mall, Decatur, GA
Authors Showcase
July 25, 2015
Christian Authors Guild, Woodstock, GA
Coffee & Quill Book Signing
March 21, 2015
http://www.christianauthorsguild.org
Interview with Breezy Gibson (www.KBCNetwork.net)
August 29, 2015
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=n9lZrHGoN6U
Anniversary Book Launch of Mama, I Want to See God,
Stone Mountain Café, Stone Mountain, GA
March 1, 2014
Media Kit Vanessa Fortenberry
bqbpublishing.com | [email protected] | p:678.316.4150 | f:678.951.0564
Mama, I Want to See God Book Trailer
February 21, 2015
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=d6-6KF1znMk
Christian Authors On Tour, Baltimore, MD
December 13, 2014
Christian Writer’s Literary Festival/Book Signing
Christian Authors On Tour, Savannah, GA
October 18, 2014
Book Signing
http://caotchristianbooktourparticipants.blogspot.com
Hiram Book Store Grand Reopening
Reading, Book Signing, & Children’s Coloring Contest
July 29, 2014
http://www.yelp.com/events/hiram-signing-event-with-vanessa-fortenberry
Luverne Public Library, Luverne, AL
“Visions & Lollipops” Story Time
July 24, 2014
Writing 101 for Teens & Book Signing
Demopolis Public Library, Demopolis, AL
“Visions & Lollipops” Story Time & Lunch & Learn @ the Library
June 16, 2014
http://www.demopolislibrary.info/documents/FortenberryLunchLearnJune2014_000.pdf
http://www.demopolistimes.com/2014/06/10/demopolis-public-library-to-host-book-signings
Hiram Book Store Grand Reopening, Hiram, GA
Book Signing Event
June 7, 2014
Media Kit Vanessa Fortenberry
bqbpublishing.com | [email protected] | p:678.316.4150 | f:678.951.0564
Cherise Bopape
Blog Tour Interview
March 24, 2014
http://cherisebopape.net
Kim Teamer, The Phone Tree Bible Study Group
Blog Tour Interview & Book Review
March 20, 2014
https://edifier1.wordpress.com/2014/03/20/spotlight-mama-i-want-to-see-god-by-vanessa-fortenberry
Boutique of Quality Books, Tomorrow’s Best Sellers Today
Blog Tour Interview
March 19, 2014
https://bqbpublishing.wordpress.com/2014/03/19/an-interview-with-author-vanessa-fortenberry
Mom by Example
Blog Tour Book Review
March 17, 2014
http://www.mombyexample.com/2014/03/mama-can-i-see-god
Sally Matheny, Reflecting on Ordinary Life Under God's Extraordinary Light
Blog Tour Book Review
March 16, 2014
http://sallymatheny.blogspot.com/2014/03/mama-i-want-to-see-god.html
Rose Chandler Johnson, Right Moments With God -- An Encouraging Place
Blog Tour Interview
March 3, 2014
http://writemomentswithgod.blogspot.com/2014/03/meet-guest-author-vanessa-fortenberry.html
Wesley Chapel- William C. Brown Library, Decatur, GA
Book Launch
Theme: Literature and Libraries: Influencing Children’s Lives through Life Lesson Stories
Book Reading, Signing, and Activities for Children
March 1, 2014
Media Kit Vanessa Fortenberry
bqbpublishing.com | [email protected] | p:678.316.4150 | f:678.951.0564
The Herndon Home Museum: Authors Showcase; Atlanta, GA
Book Talk, Book Reading and Signing
February 15, 2014
http://media.wix.com/ugd/85a2f8_d9d1e6c3b94245759db126e536ace50a.pdf
PRLOG Press Release
February 10, 2014
https://www.prlog.org/12280623-author-vanessa-fortenberry-releases-childrens-book-that-seeks-to-
connect-young-readers-with-god.html
Wesley Chapel- William C. Brown Library, Decatur, GA
Speaker- Local Authors Seminar: The Power of Writing That Causes Books To Sell –
October 26, 2013
Crossroads News Article: Local Authors Seminar - October 18, 2013
Christian Authors Guild, Woodstock, GA
Guest Speaker- “Six Keys to Your Writing Success”
September 16, 2013
Media Kit Vanessa Fortenberry
bqbpublishing.com | [email protected] | p:678.316.4150 | f:678.951.0564
Sample Interview Questions
1. What inspired you to write Mama, I Want to See God and Daddy, I Want to Know God?
2. Why do you believe it is important for children to read these books?
3. What made you want to become a Christian writer?
4. Did your background in music influence the rhythm of your books? If yes, how so?
5. Whom do you imagine as your readers?
6. Why do you think is it important for young children to understand God?
7. As a teacher-librarian, what is your goal in introducing children to books?
8. Do you have favorite books to recommend to others?
9. What are some of your hobbies outside of writing?
10. Do you have plans for future books?
Media Kit Vanessa Fortenberry
bqbpublishing.com | [email protected] | p:678.316.4150 | f:678.951.0564
Sample Author Questions and Answer Sheet
1. What inspired you to write your first book, Mama, I Want to See God?
My grandson, Anthony inspired me to write Mama, I Want to See God. About five years ago, when he was seven-years old, he actually said to his mother those exact words. Since birth, Anthony has had a bad case of eczema, which is a skin disease. Extra dry skin on his hands, arms, back, and legs, including bleeding ankles and feet due
to uncontrollable scratching made walking difficult for him. My daughter-in-law worried about this and thought Anthony wanted to die so that he would be relieved of the intense pain and discomfort. I assured her this was not the case, in that children are naturally curious about God. The next morning I sat at my computer and wrote
this story.
2. Who do you imagine as your readers?
I imagine my readers to be children and adults of different ethnic groups. While I wrote Mama, I Want to See God for my grandson, I did not see just a “male” or a “girl” character, I saw boys and girls. I quickly realized this would be a story for a diverse group of children. I also imagine my readers to be believers of the Word. In
addition, I pray my book will appeal to non-believers, as well.
3. Why do you believe it is important for children to read your books?
I believe children should read this book because it will give them a vision of whom God is through the blessings
and love He bestows upon us. Children around the world wonder about God. It is difficult for them to understand that God actually exist when they cannot see Him. This book will help children to discover the “light” within them as they learn and connect more with God. Children will draw closer to God as they gain knowledge about Him,
which will allow them to “see” God in themselves? I feel that children reading this book will come to understand that they are unique and special in the eyes of God. In addition, children are so curious, so Daddy, I Want to Know God continues to answer their questions about God.
4. What made you want to become a Christian writer?
God! I had plans to write the great American romance novel. I never intended to write children’s books or Christian books. But, as we know, God had other plans for me. One summer day in 2010, while along at the gym,
I attempted to change the TV channel to one of my favorite shows. As I climbed back on the elliptical bike, I realized I had mistakenly turned the channel to the 700 Club Christian Broadcasting station instead of the local
news channel. At this point, I was too lazy to get back up, so I listened to a conversation about how "God knows us and knows us by name." This quickly gained my attention. God spoke to me that day and I responded with a resolved “Yes.” I went home to write the first of many inspirational stories for children. Psalm 78:4 states, “We
will not hide these truths from our children; we will tell the next generation about the glorious deeds of the Lord, about his power and his mighty wonders” (NIV). That is my mission from God and I’m doing it!
Media Kit Vanessa Fortenberry
bqbpublishing.com | [email protected] | p:678.316.4150 | f:678.951.0564
5. Any plans for future books?
Mama, I Want to See God is a part of a series: Families Growing in Faith. The second book, Daddy, I Want to Know God will launch April 2017. The last book in this series is Grandma, Granddad, We Want to Praise God. I
am also in the last stages of completing a children’s nonfiction book about the Wetlands. Additionally, I have several unfinished books for children and adults that I am eager to complete.
6. What are your hobbies outside of writing?
I love to sing. I am a member of the Helen Starr Smith Sanctuary Choir at Antioch AME Church in Stone Mountain, GA and I am a member of the Wendell P. Whalum Community Chorus. I also love to bake for my family and friends. Additionally, I enjoy solving Sudoku puzzles, when I have or take the time.
Media Kit Vanessa Fortenberry
bqbpublishing.com | [email protected] | p:678.316.4150 | f:678.951.0564
Speaking/Workshop Topics
Contact Vanessa to speak at schools, churches, libraries, professional, community, and/or writing
groups: vfortenberry11[at]gmail.com
Speaking Engagements/Writing Workshops for Children/Teens
Career Day
Find Your Inspiration in Writing
Writing 101─ The Importance of the Three R’s (WRITING, RESEARCH, and REVISION)
Writing a Book Talk
Public School Programs:
School classrooms/assemblies that entertain and inform. I talk about what it is like being an author and where I get my ideas. I share my stories, including the real life stories behind them. Assemblies are 30 minutes for lower elementary and 45 minutes for upper.
Classrooms workshops that involve students in the process of writing a book talk: a short write-up of a book for raising the interest of potential readers. Workshops are 30-40 minutes for the younger grades and 45-50 for the older grades. Workshops are best for grades 2-5, but I can do simplified sessions for K-1.
Speaking Engagements/Writing Workshops for Adults
Families Growing in Faith
Just Write
Six Keys to Your Writing Success
Six Keys to Your Success
Writing 101─ The Importance of the Three R’s (WRITING, RESEARCH, and REVISION)
Unpack Your Talents
Media Kit Vanessa Fortenberry
bqbpublishing.com | [email protected] | p:678.316.4150 | f:678.951.0564
Info for Christian Schools and Churches
Christian School Programs, Sunday Schools, and Vacation Bible Schools
Storytime, discussion of my book, and/or excerpt taken from my study guide, which includes a scripture related to a verse in my story, a discussion, and an activity.
Church programs:
Women’s retreats
Families Growing in Faith
Or, I can work with your theme and offer sessions to reinforce your ideas and goals
Media Kit Vanessa Fortenberry
bqbpublishing.com | [email protected] | p:678.316.4150 | f:678.951.0564
Publicity Photos
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Media Kit Vanessa Fortenberry
bqbpublishing.com | [email protected] | p:678.316.4150 | f:678.951.0564
Marketing Products
Daddy, I Want to Know God Front Cover
Daddy, I Want to Know God Cover
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Media Kit Vanessa Fortenberry
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Sample Illustrations and Text
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