Announcing Marion Jensen's "Searching For Super"

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Today I did a little surfing at work (while on a break, of course...), I ran across a post on Facebook from one of my friends, Marion Jensen. Marion was telling his Facebook friends, and, by at least six degrees of separation, the rest of the world that his next book will be released at the beginning of next year.

So excited he was--and for good reason--he was having a contest. I know several authors who do this, give away a book or an ARC of the work to those lucky few that cheat the randomness of chance and win. To enter, you just needed to comment on his post and then tag a friend.

Since I was at work and I had not seen his post until after sixty or so comments had been made, I did not leave a message on his Facebook post (therefore, allowing those who did a slightly better chance to win...) and I decided to do one better. I thought I would make Marion's book the subject of today's blog post and help him introduce, Searching For Super to all my friends, and eventually, the world.

We picked up Marion's first book, Almost Super, book one in the two-book series, at his book signing at the King's English Book Store. I throughly enjoyed it! It's for a younger demographic--like for my kids--but I've found some of the funnest books I've ever read were written for that group, a group that still loves to read. Not every author can pull off writing an entertaining story to kids, but Marion does a fantastic job.

I expect no less from Searching For Super. Look for it early next year. In fact, I'll probably be blogging about it then. Congrats Marion! And, you're welcome to all the Facebook post commenters.

* Photo used without permission from: https://www.facebook.com/photo.php?fbid=10152995196432119&set=a.50469002118.76234.585257118&type=1&theater

Marion Jensen's "Almost Super" Is Just Plain Super...A Book Review

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I attended the official book launch of Marion Jensen's Almost Super. Since Marion's my neighbor I had the chance to talk to him about his book before it came out. I asked the same question every author is asked, "What's the book about?" Marion graciously answered as if it was the first time he'd been asked the question.

"Imagine a world where superheroes exist and the super power you get is completely useless."

We chatted more about the book and what he said left me intrigued. This week I took the book to work, read it on the  train and finished it in a few days.

In short, I loved it!

There's something sweet about a book aimed at a younger demographic. It's like watching a Disney movie, or an episode of a good cartoon. Marion transports us to when we were at that awkward junior high age as we follow the exploits of three children, two brothers from one family, and a girl from another family. As it turns out, the families possess superpowers, powers they've used to battle each other for generations.

Everything changes when the three children each obtain their own superpower, a day they've dreamed of all their lives. Turns out the event proved to be anything but super. How do the children deal with the crushing blow that has befallen them? Will they help or hinder the age-old war between the families?

You'll just have to read it yourself. I'd love to tell you more, but I'd hate to deny you the pleasure of finding out what happens. The details will bring a smile to your face! When I say it's a fast read, I mean it. If you get a chance to sit and enjoy a fun, creative book, I recommend Marion's Almost Super. You won't be disappointed!

* Photo used without permission from: https://www.goodreads.com/book/photo/18090043-almost-super

Two Book Readings...What A Difference A Few Years Makes

Back in October 2011 I attended my first author reading at a real live book store. I had not planned on attending the official launch of Robinson Wells's Variant. I was with others and they were my ride.

I remember some of the words he said, but not all. I was impressed with him. He had overcome a lot of things, some most authors must overcome, and some not. More than his words, I remember how I felt. It had been a tough day. I attended a writers conference earlier where everywhere I turned people were getting contracts and setting publishing dates. It was my first conference as a "wanna be" writer. It was depressing. I wanted what everyone else had. And to top it off, I attended a book launch for someone I had never met. No offense to Mr. Wells, but the poor attitude was my fault...it had nothing to do with him.

What a difference a couple of years makes.

Tonight I went to my second launch at the same bookstore. In the months and years between signings I've grown up. Getting a couple of short stories has helped (I know I can get published...). I also know tonight's author and count him as a friend. I know a lot more about the industry and the hard work it takes to be able to stand in front of friends and relatives in a small room at the Kings English Bookstore on 15th East and 15th South in Salt Lake City and launch a book that bears your name.

Tonight I had a much better time because of the choices I made and the attitude I wanted to have. I had a much better time. I know if I want the successes others are enjoying, I've got to put in the work. That's the plan. Congratulations Mr. Jensen. You did great!

Marion Jensen's Almost Super...Is Almost Here!

When I started this odyssey of writing for, not only fun, but for profit also, one of the first real authors I met was Marion Jensen. He was part of a writer's group I wanted to join and the second time we met, he remembered our first meeting. It's a talent I need to work on.

Marion's a quiet guy, at least the Marion I know. He's not jumping up and down screaming, "Look at me! I'm an author!" He's probably using the energy others would use jumping up and down and screaming to think and ponder. He's doing brain "up and down jumps" instead.

Over the past year I've asked him how his latest project was coming along, and he's been able to tell me of its progress, which culminates in the book's release this week. You can order it through this link: HERE. I couldn't be happier for the guy. He's worked hard, honed his craft (while helping many, many others along the way...), and been a class act then entire time.

Congratulations Marion on the book launch and everything! May 2014 be your breakout year! 

(and I hope it's okay I lifted these photos off the internet. If not, just let me know...)