The article Focuses on When The Lights Go Out which will be released on Monday and is timed for the 10th anniversary of 9/11.
A special blog page for this new release
http://max-whenlightsgoout.blogspot.com
Saturday, July 30, 2011
GateHouse Media
An article / interview went out to GateHouse Media's 500 affiliates. In addition to 97 online pickups so far, it should also appear in some of their print papers, but I won't have any way of tracking who, where, when, or how many. I noticed that my local paper posted it online this morning http://www.rrstar.com/specialsection/entertainment/x410263514/The-Readers-Writers-Film-producer-and-author-Max-Elliot-Anderson
The article Focuses on When The Lights Go Out which will be released on Monday and is timed for the 10th anniversary of 9/11.
A special blog page for this new release
http://max-whenlightsgoout.blogspot.com
The article Focuses on When The Lights Go Out which will be released on Monday and is timed for the 10th anniversary of 9/11.
A special blog page for this new release
http://max-whenlightsgoout.blogspot.com
Thursday, July 28, 2011
Always Exciting When A Box Of New Books Shows Up
One of my favoite people is our UPS driver. Any day a box of new books arrives is a good day. Today is a GOOD day! This book will be released on Monday, August 1. It's timed for the 10th anniversary of 9/11, so we never forget. Readers 8 and up, especially boys, will find this another exciting adventure that's hard to put down. Find additional details at
http://max-whenlightsgoout.blogspot.com It's a special blog page set up just for this book.
Please consider doing the following:
On your FaceBook send this:
On Monday, August 1, When The Lights Go Out will be published. Please forward this special information link to your family, friends, and contacts, so we never forget 9/11. Thank you!
http://max-whenlightsgoout.blogspot.com
And Tweet this:
August 1, When The Lights Go Out will be published. Forward this link so we never forget 9/11. http://max-whenlightsgoout.blogspot.com/
http://max-whenlightsgoout.blogspot.com It's a special blog page set up just for this book.
Please consider doing the following:
On your FaceBook send this:
On Monday, August 1, When The Lights Go Out will be published. Please forward this special information link to your family, friends, and contacts, so we never forget 9/11. Thank you!
http://max-whenlightsgoout.blogspot.com
And Tweet this:
August 1, When The Lights Go Out will be published. Forward this link so we never forget 9/11. http://max-whenlightsgoout.blogspot.com/
Monday, July 25, 2011
VIDEO - Barney And The Runaway featured on Christian Book Videos
VIDEO - Barney And The Runaway featured on Christian Book Videos http://www.christianbookvideos.com/tag/max-elliot-anderson
Sunday, July 24, 2011
Newspaper Caper Is Republished For A Whole New Audience
Action-adventure-mystery, Newspaper Caper, has been republished. It's available everywhere in bookstores and online. Intended for readers 8 - 12, it is enjoyed by readers of all ages.
Following are lots of reviews for this exciting book. Pick one up for your young reader today!
Max Elliot Anderson
NEWSPAPER CAPER
*************************
Reviewed by Messy Mom
My rating: 5 of 5 stars
Newspaper Caper by Max Elliot Anderson
Tom Stevens is a twelve-year-old ambitious salesman in Rock Island, Illinois. He recruits his two best friends to assist him with not one but three newspaper routes in order to help them train for football tryouts in the fall and to save up money to buy a car to distribute more papers. All this during summer vacation. Ambitious. Salesman. Yep.
In the wee hours of the morning before sunrise, the three boys stumble across some suspicious activity. A tow truck begins to hook up an expensive car in someone’s driveway along the paper route. But when the tow truck driver sees the boys, he drives off in the truck, leaving the car behind. Later, Tom reads of a string of car thefts around the area in the papers the boys prepare to deliver. He begins to see a connection between the local car repair shop and the thefts. Developing his detective skills, Tom and his friends piece clues together. Where are the cars going? Why don’t the cops see the clues the way Tom does?
This is a fun, easy read for kids ages 8-12. Though Christian, the message is subtle and not heavy at all. There is excitement, adventure, with a few twists and turns for added fun. I will definitely recommend Newspaper Caper by Max Elliot Anderson to my daughter, nephew, and my friends with kids in the age group.
*************************
Newspaper Caper, written by Max Anderson, is one of the better books I have read. It held my attention with its exciting plot, well-developed characters, and a feeling that what happens in the book could actually happen to someone in real life. I would recommend it to readers between the ages of 9-14. Newspaper Caper is the second installment of the Tweener Press Adventure Series. This story revolves around a twelve-year-old boy named Tom and his two friends, Matt and Jimmy. Tom has convinced Matt and Jimmy that they will become the most physically fit try-outs for their school football team if they help him with his paper route every morning. One day, while delivering papers, they see a strange sight: a man trying to open a car when the key won't work. When the man sees the boys, he runs to a tow truck and drives off. The next day, while rolling papers, Tom notices a headline about car thefts. The mystery unfolds from this point. With its humor, mystery, and the reminder that God is always with you, this book makes me want to read the other books in the Adventure Series.
Reviewed By: Aaron Garrett - Eclectic Homeschool Online
*************************
Read all about it! NewspaperCaper hits the stands! The headlines should scream. This book is a must read! It begins: "Anybody who knew Tom Stevens was sure of one thing. The boy was going places." The author isn't lying. This book features a strong-willed protagonist in a thrilling mystery that is going places from word one. It is one of the better kid's adventure novels I have read in years with a non-stop, relentlessly driving pace. Every chapter ends with a cliffhanger, just like the good old days, but this is a smooth, intelligent story, and not the herky-jerky schlock we're sadly used to in the adventure genre. The lead player, Tom, is one of the most memorable characters I have ever read in this genre. He's a real go-geter and is in trouble up to his eyes, but he never flinches and plows straight ahead. The action does not let up and builds to an amazing finale brought about byTom's brilliant strategies and breathless, daring work. In fact this is the best story of its type I have read since The Gold Ogre by Kenneth Robeson, a novel of the Doc Savage series of the 1930s-40s pulp era, that also featured a group of juvenile protagonists.Newspaper Caper is the first in a new series of kids adventures by Max Eliot Anderson. The series is Tweener Adventures, billed as Christian but not overtly so in the text, and this premier book is a smashing success. It features streetwise, take-charge kids and is written for those sometimes disenfranchised, always aching-for-adventure kids scattered about Suburbia like so much collateral damage of the modern age. This series is a refreshing take on the Hardy Boys-esque mysteries, fully modern and unique in that each novel is a stand alone tale without the same characters or locations being repeated. I'm not quite sure how that will play out over the coming years, if there will ever be any recurrent themes, characters, or storylines, but regardless of the direction it takes, Mr. Anderson has set himself a very high bar for the rest of the series.I recommend this book for all school age readers looking for some adventure to spice up their life. They'll learn a lot from these kids, who run their own businesses, live up to their responsibilities, and aren't afraid to reach for and grab their own dreams. That regardless of anything else, is a great lesson to take to heart. There is one thing I greatly appreciated in these books. Mr. Anderson doesn't preach. He doesn't ram rod the moral and destroy the story along the way. He doesn't write down to kids. These are fresh, alive, and honest characters that leap off the page in an exciting world. Kids can truly relate to their lives, respect their choices, and simply sit back and enjoy the thrill ride.
Thomas Fortenberry's Bookshelf – Midwest Book Review
***************************
admin@readerviews.comhttp://www.readerviews.com/
Newspaper Caper (Tweener Press Adventure Series)By Max Elliot AndersonTweener Press Reviewed by Kelli Glesige for Reader Views Tom Stevens and his best friends Jimmy Wilson and Matt Woodbridge are 12 year oldboys who live in Rock Island, IL near the Mississippi River. It is summer, and the boyswant to earn some money, so Tom, a master salesman, talks his friends into taking onthree paper routes in the neighborhood which means the boys must awaken each day at4:30 A.M. in order to get the papers wrapped and delivered on time. He tells his friendsthis will get them in shape for trying out and playing football in the fall; all three boys’dream. A daily reward for the boys is their delivery at Big Bob’s Doughnut Shop whereBob generously treats the boys to orange juice and a doughnut each day. What a rewardfor a 12 year old boy!All goes well for the boys, besides the occasional dog chasing after them, until they beginto see some odd things happening in the early morning hours. A truck bearing the words SMITTY’S TOWING acts very odd and leaves quickly when the driver sees the boyshave noticed him, and he quickly drives away without towing the intended car. Soonafter, the boys learn of unexplained car thefts occurring around town.Jimmy’s uncle owns P.J.’s Auto Repair, so the boys begin hanging around and askingquestions, trying to learn all they can about why the mysterious truck acted as it did,thinking someone at the repair shop might have some knowledge about Smitty’s Towing.They boys learn about chop shops and what happens to cars after they are stolen and howreselling car parts is a very lucrative business. The boys are surprised to learn thatsometimes a car thief will make a deal with the car owner so that when the car shell isfound, the original owner can turn this loss into their insurance company and get paid fortheir loss. They learn the insurance company comes out the loser in this situation, but inreality, we ultimately all pay with higher rates. Deceit hurts everyone.Exciting times ensue for the three boys, and they see some strange things going onaround town; such as one person gets out and deposits his trash in a container, then alongcomes another person who takes the trash out and drives off with it! They encountervicious guard dogs, and they come up with some quite ingenious ways to subdue theanimals. The boys also learn of some resources available at the library that are helpful intheir quest to unravel the puzzle. While investigating some leads, Tom meets a little oldlady on a park bench near the library whom he learns has had her car, a last gift from hernow deceased husband, stolen. He promises the little old lady he will do all he can tohelp her find her car again, for she now must take a bus or walk everywhere she goes, buteven more importantly, for sentimental reasons. The license plate bearing the title“PRINCESS” is especially meaningful to the little lady. The boys get in several veryprecarious circumstances and the story is exciting! The plot will keep you passionatelyturning pages!This story is a great book for all 12 year olds, and I believe even those who find itdifficult to become engrossed in a book will find results here. Another item I liked aboutthe book was that the boys are aptly rewarded by the city for doing their civic duty. Ifound that in itself a good message to kids. Max Elliot Anderson offers a book with goodvalues, a healthy lesson, plus the bonus of a great and exciting story. It is a page turnerthat will keep you and your child fascinated!
*******************
The Newspaper Caperby Max Elliot Anderson
ages 9-12
136 pages
Paperback
Twelve-year-old Tom Stevens is not your everyday pre-teen. As Max Elliot Anderson describes his protagonist, Tom is a preternaturally talented salesman. “When he was only four, Tom was the first boy on his street to set up a lemonade stand … in January!” Tom runs a thriving newspaper delivery business with the help of his often reluctant friends, Jimmy Wilson and Matt Woodridge. Jimmy and Matt’s reluctance stems from the need to be up at four in the morning to put the papers together and roll them up prior to delivery.One morning, Tom spies a tow truck that is about to hook up an expensive looking car. When the men in the tow truck see the boys on their bicycles, they quickly flee the scene, ignoring the car. In addition to being an astute salesman, Tom has a keen sense of observation and an eye for the unusual. When he reads about the spate of car robberies in his town, Tom puts two and two together and enlists his friends to solve the mystery.Max Elliot Anderson grew up a reluctant reader, even though he came from a family where reading was the norm. As an adult, Anderson realized that his apathy to the written word was because most books were poorly written with a dearth of action. He set out to write books that crackled with action and were page turners. The current book is a fine testament to Anderson’s quest. While the mystery is not complicated, there are ample chases and twists and turns to keep the reader engrossed. The characters are plausible both in their motivations and in their actions. Anderson keeps the descriptions sparse and focuses on the action. Readers who are making the transition to longer chapter books will find this book an enjoyable experience.
Ram Subramanian/ for curled up with a good kid's book
***************************
For middle school kids comes the new Tweener Press Adventure Series beginning with Max Elliot Anderson’s "Newspaper Caper." This series targets boys, specifically those boys who are heavy into the Harry Potter books. Their goal is to keep'em reading and to provide more uplifting material than the progressively darker Potter books.
Anderson's action-packed tale of three 12-year-olds who uncover a car-thieving ring while working their paper route is just the ticket. This demographic will love the fast pace,and the cliff-hanging chapter endings.
This is Tom Sawyer and Huck Finn if they lived in modern American suburbia. The next title promises more of the same: "Terror at Wolf Lake." Book Reviews by Heather Hunt
*************************
Heartland Review of Newspaper Caper
Reviewer: Bob Spear from Leavenworth, KS USA
Newspaper Caper is a wonderful mid-grade mystery adventure book for reluctant readers. Tom Stevens is a nine-year-old businessman who has talked he two best friends into working for him on his morning newspaper route. They witness, try to solve, and become enmeshed in a car theft ring.
This book teaches the work ethic, honesty and many positive values, while not preaching. The action is fast, and young people will quickly get pulled into the story. We feel this author is providing a much-needed resource for those readers who would rather not read if they don't have to. We rated it five hearts.
***********************
12-yr old Tom Stevens is a paper boy. A born leader and 'business man,' Tom parleys everything he touches into a money-making enterprise. "When he was only four, Tom was the first boy on his street to set up a lemonade stand -- in January. And, even though snow already covered the ground, people still stopped and bought some. He could just as easily sell hot chocolate on the most sweltering day of the summer if he wanted to."
Thus Max Anderson introduces us to Tom. With his two best friends Jimmy and Matt, Tom runs one of the largest newspaper routes in his home town. But Tom isn't your ordinary kid. His is an inquisitive mind and when he spots something not quite right, he is determined to get to the bottom of it.
That early in the morning, the boys often saw some pretty strange things: customers locked outside their house while retrieving the paper just delivered, not necessarily ready to meet the world - like a lady in curlers and green stuff on her face. But the boys instinctively adopted a rule of silence about what they saw on their daily route.
However, one morning, during their summer vacation, while it is still dark, the boys notice a tow-truck backing up to the car parked in the driveway of one of their customers. A man gets out of the truck and approaches the car, while in the cab sits another man. Tom gets a glimpse of him. He wears a light blue shirt with a nametag on the front and a patch on the sleeve. The man had dark hair. Though his face was hidden, Tom saw the name on his shirt -- "Jake."
But the man outside the truck sees the boys and instead of hooking up the car to tow it away he quickly runs back to the truck, jumps in and drives away with squealing tires and a trail of blue smoke. "That's strange," thought Tom. And the investigation is on.
Max says he really hated to read, and everything he tried to read failed to hold his interest. He wanted "music, action, and moving pictures…not just a bunch of words." So, he set out to write a book that he would like. NEWSPAPER CAPER is the start of an adventure series he developed will hold the interest of …'Tweeners' - ages 8-13, especially boys."
I loved this book - and I'm a girl! And I'm definitely not a Tweener. Yet this book captivated me from the first page. I think Max has done exactly what he set out to do - and beyond. I'd give this book SIX stars, if there were such a thing. Max, you're on the right track, and I wish you all the best!
Peggy Phifer
*****************************
Tom, Jimmy and Matt have a joint newspaper route, and the boys are up early every morning delivering the papers on their bikes. The boys read about a series of auto thefts in their neighborhood, and one morning they see a couple of men acting very suspiciously. They are pretty sure that the men are stealing a car. Tom sees the name Jake embroidered on one guy's pocket.
The same Jake turns out to be a mechanic at a relative's garage, and he acts very secretive when the boys are around.
The boy's adventures as they take matters into their own hands and investigate the car thefts are hair rising. They befriend an elderly widow whose car is stolen, and encounter vicious, boy-eating watch dogs and the thieves themselves at the chop-shop used by the crooks.
This story contains Christian concepts...God is very much a part of the boys' lives.
The characters are very well drawn and realistic. The plot is exciting and the suspense builds to a surprise ending. This thrilling story is written with the 8 to 14 year old reluctant reader in mind, and the kids just won't be able to put it down. Myshelf.com
**********************
Tom Stevens is a born salesman who entices his friends to become entrepreneurs. Disciplining themselves to become the best football players means they have to rise early everyday in order to deliver local newspapers.
Their delivery route has its challenges which Anderson has the characters handle with robust and often hilarious responses. The plot begins to race along as they discover they may have accidentally become witnesses to a very well- planned car theft pattern that is causing grief to numerous people.
Realistically, Tom Stevens, Jimmy Wilson, and Matt Woodridge keep delivering their papers while discovering increasing evidence that proves the thieves might just be a little closer to their world than they previously expected.
It is Tom, however, who proves the most capable at carrying this mystery to its danger-fraught conclusion. His investigative skills are quite convincing and the reader will be mentally urging him forward as he comes closer to solving the crimes. His trust in God is contagious as he comes frightfully closer to having to do more than just watch an unfolding drama.
In a world fraught with apathy and resignation, Max Anderson presents another Tweener Press Adventure that is sure to delight young readers who are looking for real excitement and hope that defies all injustice.
Neat job, Mr. Anderson!
Reviewed by Viviane Crystal
Following are lots of reviews for this exciting book. Pick one up for your young reader today!
Max Elliot Anderson
NEWSPAPER CAPER
*************************
Reviewed by Messy Mom
My rating: 5 of 5 stars
Newspaper Caper by Max Elliot Anderson
Tom Stevens is a twelve-year-old ambitious salesman in Rock Island, Illinois. He recruits his two best friends to assist him with not one but three newspaper routes in order to help them train for football tryouts in the fall and to save up money to buy a car to distribute more papers. All this during summer vacation. Ambitious. Salesman. Yep.
In the wee hours of the morning before sunrise, the three boys stumble across some suspicious activity. A tow truck begins to hook up an expensive car in someone’s driveway along the paper route. But when the tow truck driver sees the boys, he drives off in the truck, leaving the car behind. Later, Tom reads of a string of car thefts around the area in the papers the boys prepare to deliver. He begins to see a connection between the local car repair shop and the thefts. Developing his detective skills, Tom and his friends piece clues together. Where are the cars going? Why don’t the cops see the clues the way Tom does?
This is a fun, easy read for kids ages 8-12. Though Christian, the message is subtle and not heavy at all. There is excitement, adventure, with a few twists and turns for added fun. I will definitely recommend Newspaper Caper by Max Elliot Anderson to my daughter, nephew, and my friends with kids in the age group.
*************************
Newspaper Caper, written by Max Anderson, is one of the better books I have read. It held my attention with its exciting plot, well-developed characters, and a feeling that what happens in the book could actually happen to someone in real life. I would recommend it to readers between the ages of 9-14. Newspaper Caper is the second installment of the Tweener Press Adventure Series. This story revolves around a twelve-year-old boy named Tom and his two friends, Matt and Jimmy. Tom has convinced Matt and Jimmy that they will become the most physically fit try-outs for their school football team if they help him with his paper route every morning. One day, while delivering papers, they see a strange sight: a man trying to open a car when the key won't work. When the man sees the boys, he runs to a tow truck and drives off. The next day, while rolling papers, Tom notices a headline about car thefts. The mystery unfolds from this point. With its humor, mystery, and the reminder that God is always with you, this book makes me want to read the other books in the Adventure Series.
Reviewed By: Aaron Garrett - Eclectic Homeschool Online
*************************
Read all about it! NewspaperCaper hits the stands! The headlines should scream. This book is a must read! It begins: "Anybody who knew Tom Stevens was sure of one thing. The boy was going places." The author isn't lying. This book features a strong-willed protagonist in a thrilling mystery that is going places from word one. It is one of the better kid's adventure novels I have read in years with a non-stop, relentlessly driving pace. Every chapter ends with a cliffhanger, just like the good old days, but this is a smooth, intelligent story, and not the herky-jerky schlock we're sadly used to in the adventure genre. The lead player, Tom, is one of the most memorable characters I have ever read in this genre. He's a real go-geter and is in trouble up to his eyes, but he never flinches and plows straight ahead. The action does not let up and builds to an amazing finale brought about byTom's brilliant strategies and breathless, daring work. In fact this is the best story of its type I have read since The Gold Ogre by Kenneth Robeson, a novel of the Doc Savage series of the 1930s-40s pulp era, that also featured a group of juvenile protagonists.Newspaper Caper is the first in a new series of kids adventures by Max Eliot Anderson. The series is Tweener Adventures, billed as Christian but not overtly so in the text, and this premier book is a smashing success. It features streetwise, take-charge kids and is written for those sometimes disenfranchised, always aching-for-adventure kids scattered about Suburbia like so much collateral damage of the modern age. This series is a refreshing take on the Hardy Boys-esque mysteries, fully modern and unique in that each novel is a stand alone tale without the same characters or locations being repeated. I'm not quite sure how that will play out over the coming years, if there will ever be any recurrent themes, characters, or storylines, but regardless of the direction it takes, Mr. Anderson has set himself a very high bar for the rest of the series.I recommend this book for all school age readers looking for some adventure to spice up their life. They'll learn a lot from these kids, who run their own businesses, live up to their responsibilities, and aren't afraid to reach for and grab their own dreams. That regardless of anything else, is a great lesson to take to heart. There is one thing I greatly appreciated in these books. Mr. Anderson doesn't preach. He doesn't ram rod the moral and destroy the story along the way. He doesn't write down to kids. These are fresh, alive, and honest characters that leap off the page in an exciting world. Kids can truly relate to their lives, respect their choices, and simply sit back and enjoy the thrill ride.
Thomas Fortenberry's Bookshelf – Midwest Book Review
***************************
admin@readerviews.comhttp://www.readerviews.com/
Newspaper Caper (Tweener Press Adventure Series)By Max Elliot AndersonTweener Press Reviewed by Kelli Glesige for Reader Views Tom Stevens and his best friends Jimmy Wilson and Matt Woodbridge are 12 year oldboys who live in Rock Island, IL near the Mississippi River. It is summer, and the boyswant to earn some money, so Tom, a master salesman, talks his friends into taking onthree paper routes in the neighborhood which means the boys must awaken each day at4:30 A.M. in order to get the papers wrapped and delivered on time. He tells his friendsthis will get them in shape for trying out and playing football in the fall; all three boys’dream. A daily reward for the boys is their delivery at Big Bob’s Doughnut Shop whereBob generously treats the boys to orange juice and a doughnut each day. What a rewardfor a 12 year old boy!All goes well for the boys, besides the occasional dog chasing after them, until they beginto see some odd things happening in the early morning hours. A truck bearing the words SMITTY’S TOWING acts very odd and leaves quickly when the driver sees the boyshave noticed him, and he quickly drives away without towing the intended car. Soonafter, the boys learn of unexplained car thefts occurring around town.Jimmy’s uncle owns P.J.’s Auto Repair, so the boys begin hanging around and askingquestions, trying to learn all they can about why the mysterious truck acted as it did,thinking someone at the repair shop might have some knowledge about Smitty’s Towing.They boys learn about chop shops and what happens to cars after they are stolen and howreselling car parts is a very lucrative business. The boys are surprised to learn thatsometimes a car thief will make a deal with the car owner so that when the car shell isfound, the original owner can turn this loss into their insurance company and get paid fortheir loss. They learn the insurance company comes out the loser in this situation, but inreality, we ultimately all pay with higher rates. Deceit hurts everyone.Exciting times ensue for the three boys, and they see some strange things going onaround town; such as one person gets out and deposits his trash in a container, then alongcomes another person who takes the trash out and drives off with it! They encountervicious guard dogs, and they come up with some quite ingenious ways to subdue theanimals. The boys also learn of some resources available at the library that are helpful intheir quest to unravel the puzzle. While investigating some leads, Tom meets a little oldlady on a park bench near the library whom he learns has had her car, a last gift from hernow deceased husband, stolen. He promises the little old lady he will do all he can tohelp her find her car again, for she now must take a bus or walk everywhere she goes, buteven more importantly, for sentimental reasons. The license plate bearing the title“PRINCESS” is especially meaningful to the little lady. The boys get in several veryprecarious circumstances and the story is exciting! The plot will keep you passionatelyturning pages!This story is a great book for all 12 year olds, and I believe even those who find itdifficult to become engrossed in a book will find results here. Another item I liked aboutthe book was that the boys are aptly rewarded by the city for doing their civic duty. Ifound that in itself a good message to kids. Max Elliot Anderson offers a book with goodvalues, a healthy lesson, plus the bonus of a great and exciting story. It is a page turnerthat will keep you and your child fascinated!
*******************
The Newspaper Caperby Max Elliot Anderson
ages 9-12
136 pages
Paperback
Twelve-year-old Tom Stevens is not your everyday pre-teen. As Max Elliot Anderson describes his protagonist, Tom is a preternaturally talented salesman. “When he was only four, Tom was the first boy on his street to set up a lemonade stand … in January!” Tom runs a thriving newspaper delivery business with the help of his often reluctant friends, Jimmy Wilson and Matt Woodridge. Jimmy and Matt’s reluctance stems from the need to be up at four in the morning to put the papers together and roll them up prior to delivery.One morning, Tom spies a tow truck that is about to hook up an expensive looking car. When the men in the tow truck see the boys on their bicycles, they quickly flee the scene, ignoring the car. In addition to being an astute salesman, Tom has a keen sense of observation and an eye for the unusual. When he reads about the spate of car robberies in his town, Tom puts two and two together and enlists his friends to solve the mystery.Max Elliot Anderson grew up a reluctant reader, even though he came from a family where reading was the norm. As an adult, Anderson realized that his apathy to the written word was because most books were poorly written with a dearth of action. He set out to write books that crackled with action and were page turners. The current book is a fine testament to Anderson’s quest. While the mystery is not complicated, there are ample chases and twists and turns to keep the reader engrossed. The characters are plausible both in their motivations and in their actions. Anderson keeps the descriptions sparse and focuses on the action. Readers who are making the transition to longer chapter books will find this book an enjoyable experience.
Ram Subramanian/ for curled up with a good kid's book
***************************
For middle school kids comes the new Tweener Press Adventure Series beginning with Max Elliot Anderson’s "Newspaper Caper." This series targets boys, specifically those boys who are heavy into the Harry Potter books. Their goal is to keep'em reading and to provide more uplifting material than the progressively darker Potter books.
Anderson's action-packed tale of three 12-year-olds who uncover a car-thieving ring while working their paper route is just the ticket. This demographic will love the fast pace,and the cliff-hanging chapter endings.
This is Tom Sawyer and Huck Finn if they lived in modern American suburbia. The next title promises more of the same: "Terror at Wolf Lake." Book Reviews by Heather Hunt
*************************
Heartland Review of Newspaper Caper
Reviewer: Bob Spear from Leavenworth, KS USA
Newspaper Caper is a wonderful mid-grade mystery adventure book for reluctant readers. Tom Stevens is a nine-year-old businessman who has talked he two best friends into working for him on his morning newspaper route. They witness, try to solve, and become enmeshed in a car theft ring.
This book teaches the work ethic, honesty and many positive values, while not preaching. The action is fast, and young people will quickly get pulled into the story. We feel this author is providing a much-needed resource for those readers who would rather not read if they don't have to. We rated it five hearts.
***********************
12-yr old Tom Stevens is a paper boy. A born leader and 'business man,' Tom parleys everything he touches into a money-making enterprise. "When he was only four, Tom was the first boy on his street to set up a lemonade stand -- in January. And, even though snow already covered the ground, people still stopped and bought some. He could just as easily sell hot chocolate on the most sweltering day of the summer if he wanted to."
Thus Max Anderson introduces us to Tom. With his two best friends Jimmy and Matt, Tom runs one of the largest newspaper routes in his home town. But Tom isn't your ordinary kid. His is an inquisitive mind and when he spots something not quite right, he is determined to get to the bottom of it.
That early in the morning, the boys often saw some pretty strange things: customers locked outside their house while retrieving the paper just delivered, not necessarily ready to meet the world - like a lady in curlers and green stuff on her face. But the boys instinctively adopted a rule of silence about what they saw on their daily route.
However, one morning, during their summer vacation, while it is still dark, the boys notice a tow-truck backing up to the car parked in the driveway of one of their customers. A man gets out of the truck and approaches the car, while in the cab sits another man. Tom gets a glimpse of him. He wears a light blue shirt with a nametag on the front and a patch on the sleeve. The man had dark hair. Though his face was hidden, Tom saw the name on his shirt -- "Jake."
But the man outside the truck sees the boys and instead of hooking up the car to tow it away he quickly runs back to the truck, jumps in and drives away with squealing tires and a trail of blue smoke. "That's strange," thought Tom. And the investigation is on.
Max says he really hated to read, and everything he tried to read failed to hold his interest. He wanted "music, action, and moving pictures…not just a bunch of words." So, he set out to write a book that he would like. NEWSPAPER CAPER is the start of an adventure series he developed will hold the interest of …'Tweeners' - ages 8-13, especially boys."
I loved this book - and I'm a girl! And I'm definitely not a Tweener. Yet this book captivated me from the first page. I think Max has done exactly what he set out to do - and beyond. I'd give this book SIX stars, if there were such a thing. Max, you're on the right track, and I wish you all the best!
Peggy Phifer
*****************************
Tom, Jimmy and Matt have a joint newspaper route, and the boys are up early every morning delivering the papers on their bikes. The boys read about a series of auto thefts in their neighborhood, and one morning they see a couple of men acting very suspiciously. They are pretty sure that the men are stealing a car. Tom sees the name Jake embroidered on one guy's pocket.
The same Jake turns out to be a mechanic at a relative's garage, and he acts very secretive when the boys are around.
The boy's adventures as they take matters into their own hands and investigate the car thefts are hair rising. They befriend an elderly widow whose car is stolen, and encounter vicious, boy-eating watch dogs and the thieves themselves at the chop-shop used by the crooks.
This story contains Christian concepts...God is very much a part of the boys' lives.
The characters are very well drawn and realistic. The plot is exciting and the suspense builds to a surprise ending. This thrilling story is written with the 8 to 14 year old reluctant reader in mind, and the kids just won't be able to put it down. Myshelf.com
**********************
Tom Stevens is a born salesman who entices his friends to become entrepreneurs. Disciplining themselves to become the best football players means they have to rise early everyday in order to deliver local newspapers.
Their delivery route has its challenges which Anderson has the characters handle with robust and often hilarious responses. The plot begins to race along as they discover they may have accidentally become witnesses to a very well- planned car theft pattern that is causing grief to numerous people.
Realistically, Tom Stevens, Jimmy Wilson, and Matt Woodridge keep delivering their papers while discovering increasing evidence that proves the thieves might just be a little closer to their world than they previously expected.
It is Tom, however, who proves the most capable at carrying this mystery to its danger-fraught conclusion. His investigative skills are quite convincing and the reader will be mentally urging him forward as he comes closer to solving the crimes. His trust in God is contagious as he comes frightfully closer to having to do more than just watch an unfolding drama.
In a world fraught with apathy and resignation, Max Anderson presents another Tweener Press Adventure that is sure to delight young readers who are looking for real excitement and hope that defies all injustice.
Neat job, Mr. Anderson!
Reviewed by Viviane Crystal
Thursday, July 21, 2011
New Book Countdown
When
The Lights
The Lights
Go Out
Is
Out
As Of
August 1
Out
As Of
August 1
When the Lights Go Out Blog
http://max-whenlightsgoout.blogspot.com/
When the Lights Go Out Video
Tuesday, July 19, 2011
New Video - Lost Island Smugglers
I have a new book trailer video for
Lost Island Smugglers
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=uUTyzOwEJLg&feature
Once you're at the link, there are several other trailers for my action-adventure & mystery books for boys...and girls like reading them too.
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Lost Island Smugglers
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=uUTyzOwEJLg&feature
Once you're at the link, there are several other trailers for my action-adventure & mystery books for boys...and girls like reading them too.
Friday, July 15, 2011
Atlanta Booksellers Convention
On Monday, July 11, I left my house at around 4:00 A,M., to drive to Chicago for my flight to Atlanta and the International Christian Retail Show (ICRS). We experienced a full ground stop while a storm with 70 mph winds, and torrential rain, blew through. The power went off in our terminal, the air went off, people movers stopped, and the place went dark. Eventually we were able to depart.
Comfort Publishing produced a nice poster for my signing, and ran an ad in the daily show paper.
I was there to sign copies of my new book, When the Lights Go Out. This is an action-adventure, with a terrorist plot, that will also make sure that kids never forget what happened on 9/11. It will be released on August 1, in time for the 10th anniversary of 9/11.
We ran out of that book, so I signed additional copies of Barney and the Runaway, Newspaper Caper, and North Woods Poachers.
Each time I signed a book, and said, “My books are for readers 8 – 13, especially boys,” the person’s face brightened, their eyebrows went up, and they said, “We really need more books for boys!” It’s my hope that they will carry that thought back home and spread the word that they found a source for that need.
I met several old friends and lots of new ones.
Then, when I returned home, I had to deal with the clean up from 80 mph winds which were part of that same storm system that had held up my flight. My neighborhood just got back full electric power late last night.
When the Lights Go Out - Blog
http://max-whenlightsgoout.blogspot.com/
Video for Captain Jack's Treasure http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=khOJMw-faws&feature
VideoWhen the Lights Go Out
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=wfSEkGN5q0U&feature
Video - Barney and the Runaway http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=-0l7ZU94Ieo&feature=mfu
Video - North Woods Poachers
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=UrJF8x9gqBw&feature
When the Lights Go Out - Blog
http://max-whenlightsgoout.blogspot.com/
Video for Captain Jack's Treasure http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=khOJMw-faws&feature
VideoWhen the Lights Go Out
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=wfSEkGN5q0U&feature
Video - Barney and the Runaway http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=-0l7ZU94Ieo&feature=mfu
Video - North Woods Poachers
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=UrJF8x9gqBw&feature
Wednesday, July 13, 2011
School is Where the Home Is
I’m happy to introduce you to Anita Mellott and her new book, School Is Where the Home Is.
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This is a devotional book for parents and contains 180 devotions.
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But here’s the fun part. I first met Anita many, many years ago in Bangalore, India. I had travelled there to help my father shoot a kid’s film for the children of India. That film was called
Mark of the Red Hand.
The person who had set up all of the logistics for us in India, and even had a staring role, was Anita’s father, George Ninan. Anita’s family and ours became lifelong friends, although I haven’t seen her since she was just a little girl.
Earlier this week I attended the International Christian Retail Show (ICRS) in Atlanta, to sign copies of my new book, When the Lights Go Out.
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Anita came to my signing, totally surprised me, and it was great to get reacquainted with her after so many years. Later in the day, I went to her signing in the Judson Press booth at ICRS.
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Reviews
“The devotions found in School Is Where the Home Is are exactly what my homeschool days need! Anita opens the door to her home and heart to share soul-stirring wisdom for how God can transform your homeschool journey into all that the Lord longs for it to be—both for you and your children. Whether you’re new to homeschooling or a veteran, these devotions will lighten your load, brighten your mood, and heighten your awareness that God is with you every step of the way.” --Amy Wallace, author of the Defenders of Hope series and homeschool mom of three, navigating high school, middle school, and elementary school with a smile—most days
“With clarity and sincerity, Anita Mellot leads the reader through a series of short readings and reflections which become more than just a time of devotion, but spark powerful and relevant thoughts on how we can be the best parent we can. Her heart as a mother, her dedication as a wife, and her years of experience combine in humility and insight. Not your typical collection of daily devotions, School Is Where the Home Is offers any parent a simple contemplation on the things that really matter.” --Andrew Pudewa, Institute for Excellence in Writing
“In Anita Mellott’s book, we get a glimpse of God’s provision, wisdom, encouragement, and love all wrapped up in a daily devotional that is sure to encourage the heart of every homeschool mom who reads it. Anita encourages readers to listen for God’s gentle whisper and to see the Lord in every aspect of homeschooling––from child training to math lessons. You’ll be blessed and encouraged in your homeschool journey by the wisdom that is found in the pages of this unique book.” --Heidi St. John, thebusyhomeschoolmom mom and FirstClassHomeschool.org
“Like all good books of encouragement, Anita’s draws out spiritual lessons from the everyday events that arise in the process of homeschooling. We all can identify with these stories. Accordingly, we can all benefit from the spiritual insights and encouragements she draws out of each episode. The lessons are written with a light touch but are able to connect each of us with that which is truly profound.” --from the foreword by Dr. Michael Farris, Chairman, Homeschool Legal Defense Association
“In Anita Mellott’s book, we get a glimpse of God’s provision, wisdom, encouragement, and love all wrapped up in a daily devotional that is sure to encourage the heart of every homeschool mom who reads it. Anita encourages readers to listen for God’s gentle whisper and to see the Lord in every aspect of homeschooling––from child training to math lessons. You’ll be blessed and encouraged in your homeschool journey by the wisdom that is found in the pages of this unique book.” --Heidi St. John, thebusyhomeschoolmom and FirstClassHomeschool.org
***********
So, if you’re a homeschooing parent, especially a mom, I think you’ll find this book to be helpful, encouraging, and useful in the special work you do to teach your children – Max Elliot Anderson, author of adventures and mysteries for readers 8 – 13, especially boys.
This book was given to me by the author at a trade show at no cost.
This is a devotional book for parents and contains 180 devotions.
Mark of the Red Hand.
The person who had set up all of the logistics for us in India, and even had a staring role, was Anita’s father, George Ninan. Anita’s family and ours became lifelong friends, although I haven’t seen her since she was just a little girl.
Earlier this week I attended the International Christian Retail Show (ICRS) in Atlanta, to sign copies of my new book, When the Lights Go Out.
Reviews“The devotions found in School Is Where the Home Is are exactly what my homeschool days need! Anita opens the door to her home and heart to share soul-stirring wisdom for how God can transform your homeschool journey into all that the Lord longs for it to be—both for you and your children. Whether you’re new to homeschooling or a veteran, these devotions will lighten your load, brighten your mood, and heighten your awareness that God is with you every step of the way.” --Amy Wallace, author of the Defenders of Hope series and homeschool mom of three, navigating high school, middle school, and elementary school with a smile—most days
“With clarity and sincerity, Anita Mellot leads the reader through a series of short readings and reflections which become more than just a time of devotion, but spark powerful and relevant thoughts on how we can be the best parent we can. Her heart as a mother, her dedication as a wife, and her years of experience combine in humility and insight. Not your typical collection of daily devotions, School Is Where the Home Is offers any parent a simple contemplation on the things that really matter.” --Andrew Pudewa, Institute for Excellence in Writing
“In Anita Mellott’s book, we get a glimpse of God’s provision, wisdom, encouragement, and love all wrapped up in a daily devotional that is sure to encourage the heart of every homeschool mom who reads it. Anita encourages readers to listen for God’s gentle whisper and to see the Lord in every aspect of homeschooling––from child training to math lessons. You’ll be blessed and encouraged in your homeschool journey by the wisdom that is found in the pages of this unique book.” --Heidi St. John, thebusyhomeschoolmom mom and FirstClassHomeschool.org
“Like all good books of encouragement, Anita’s draws out spiritual lessons from the everyday events that arise in the process of homeschooling. We all can identify with these stories. Accordingly, we can all benefit from the spiritual insights and encouragements she draws out of each episode. The lessons are written with a light touch but are able to connect each of us with that which is truly profound.” --from the foreword by Dr. Michael Farris, Chairman, Homeschool Legal Defense Association
“In Anita Mellott’s book, we get a glimpse of God’s provision, wisdom, encouragement, and love all wrapped up in a daily devotional that is sure to encourage the heart of every homeschool mom who reads it. Anita encourages readers to listen for God’s gentle whisper and to see the Lord in every aspect of homeschooling––from child training to math lessons. You’ll be blessed and encouraged in your homeschool journey by the wisdom that is found in the pages of this unique book.” --Heidi St. John, thebusyhomeschoolmom and FirstClassHomeschool.org
***********
So, if you’re a homeschooing parent, especially a mom, I think you’ll find this book to be helpful, encouraging, and useful in the special work you do to teach your children – Max Elliot Anderson, author of adventures and mysteries for readers 8 – 13, especially boys.
This book was given to me by the author at a trade show at no cost.
Saturday, July 09, 2011
Please meet Vincent Forras, First Responder, Survivor of 9/11
As the roll out has begun on my book, When the Lights Go Out, I’ve reached out to the 9/11 families and organizations connected with that terrible event. It is critically important that we teach the next generations about what happened on that day, and why it’s also important that we never forget.
Vinny is co-founder of an organization called the Gear Up Foundation. You can learn more about it at http://www.gearupfoundation.org/
But you should also know that he is a survivor of the 9/11 attacks on the World Trade Center towers. He wrote to me, “For me the lights really did go out when I was buried beneath the rubble for nearly two hours in total darkness.” And he’s committed to keeping the memory of those who died on that day, alive.
On a recent national news program, I saw some man-on-the-street interviews of young people in their late teens and early twenties. A few could explain what took place on 9/11, but sadly, most had no idea.
We can NOT allow this to continue. So I hope you’ll take a look at Vinny’s foundation. http://www.gearupfoundation.org If nothing else, drop him a note and tell him how much you appreciate his service. Vinny, and many others like him, rushed into those towers while everyone else ran away. His email address is vforras@gearupfoundation.org
Please tell as many people as possible about
When the Lights Go Out. I'll be signing copies at ICRS in Atlanta.
Here are a couple of links you can use.
When the Lights Go Out bloghttp://max-whenlightsgoout.blogspot.com
Video When the Lights Go Out
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=wfSEkGN5q0U&feature
Then spend a few minutes at his web site. You’ll be glad you did.
Max Elliot Anderson
Contact Gear Up.
Gear Up Foundation
P.O. Box 911
South Salem, NY 10590
Phone: (631) 869-5607
Toll Free: (800) 601-3493
Tuesday, July 05, 2011
My video work at the 2011 US Open for Table Tennis
This past weekend, I had the opportunity to run a video camera at the 2011 US Open for Table Tennis. We had three cameras and the video images were switched live for a live streaming video program on the Internet. Can you remember the last time you stood in one place, in a ridged position, for over 6 hours? That’s what it took to shoot this program.
Barbados, Belarus, Brazil, Canada, China, China (Hong Kong), Croatia, France, Germany, Hungary, India, Ireland, Israel, Jamaica, Japan, Mexico, Norway, Pakistan, Philippines, Serbia, Sierra Leone, Singapore, South Korea, United States, Ukraine & Venezuela
Milwaukee was the first stop of the national celebration of the 40th Anniversary of Ping Pong Diplomacy.
In 1971, a series of table tennis matches between the People’s Republic of China and the USA helped lay the groundwork for the eventual establishment of diplomatic relations between the two nations.
To celebrate the 40th Anniversary of this widely acknowledged diplomatic breakthrough known as Ping Pong Diplomacy (PPD), USA Table Tennis participated with Milwaukee Mayor Tom Barrett and the metro Milwaukee business community to welcome a 14- member Chinese delegation to stage a PPD Exhibition on Friday, July 1.
The Chinese delegation was led by distinguished members of the Chinese Table Tennis Association, the Chinese Olympic Committee and members of the original 1971 PPD delegation. Exhibition matches showcased original ’71 players from both nations along with matches featuring current elite players and junior elite players from both nations.
Guests were invited to gather at 6 pm for a viewing of “The Emperor’s Private Paradise,” a unique collection of more than 90 art treasures on loan from Beijing’s Forbidden City. There was a lead- in table tennis exhibition featuring Milwaukee’s own and Las Vegas headliner and prominent television personality, Frank Caliendo, at 6:30 pm. Multi-medalist Olympian Bonnie Blair and former NFL quarterback and Olympian Randy Dean addressed the audience. A formal dinner followed and the evening concluding with the feature table tennis matches including US Open participant and comedian Frank Caliendo.
Here’s a link if you’re interested in more information about the event http://usopenmilwaukee.com
Saturday, July 02, 2011
Books for boys videos
Here are some short videos about books for boys that you might enjoy over this long, 4th of July weekend.
Captain Jack's Treasure
Guys...read a book!
NEWS! I received a notice that the Malaysia Star newspaper gave a mention to my video, Guys...read a book. http://thestar.com.my/lifestyle/story.asp?file=/2011/7/3/lifefocus/8983357&sec=lifefocus
When the Lights Go Out
Barney and the Runaway
Various Books Video Trailer
And this one, of our cat, Aubie, is just for fun.
Friday, July 01, 2011
New video for Captain Jack's Treasure
Here's a new video for Captain Jack's Treasure which releases on August 15
Share this link with others
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