Vanessa Fortenberry Inspirational Author and Speaker...Vanessa mistakenly (how many of you know it was not a mistake?) turned the TV channel to the 700 Club. A conversation about how

Media Kit Vanessa Fortenberry

bqbpublishing.com | [email protected] | p:678.316.4150 | f:678.951.0564

Vanessa Fortenberry

Inspirational Author and Speaker



Families in Faith Series:

Mama, I Want to See God

Daddy, I Want Know God

Available in the following formats: hardcover, paperback, audio, eBook, and eBook bundle.



Published Date 10/1/2017

Daddy, I Want to Know God Book Trailer

“Winner” in the “Children’s Religious” category of the 2019 Christie Indie Awards in the Children’s (4-8 year) category

“Winner” in the “Children’s Religious” category of the

2018 American Fiction Awards

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=foRRrhqPkRk&t=20s



Mama, I Want to See God Book Trailer

“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

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=d6-6KF1znMk



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



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 stories, Mama, I Want to See God published in 2014 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 , also, an award-winning book 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

https://bqbpublishing.com/product/mama-want-see-god/


https://bqbpublishing.com/product/daddy-want-know-god/


http://www.vanessafortenberry.com/



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 award-winning 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




http://www.christianauthorsguild.org/

http://www.amazon.com/Relief-Notes-Encouraging-Letters-Tough/dp/1494477122



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,

Connecting Readers and Writers to the Word (previously the 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.

http://christianauthorsontour.com/

http://www.guardian-angel-kids.com/

https://www.vanessafortenberry.com/blog/

https://www.vanessafortenberry.com/newsletters/

https://www.vanessafortenberry.com/newsletters/



Contact Info

To contact Vanessa please email her:

vfortenberry11[at]gmail.com

mailto:[email protected]



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.



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.



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.



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

###

https://bqbpublishing.com/daddy-want-know-god-vanessa-fortenberry/

https://www.amazon.com/Daddy-Want-Families-Growing-Faith/dp/1939371643/ref=asap_bc?ie=UTF8

https://www.barnesandnoble.com/w/daddy-i-want-to-know-god-vanessa-fortenberry/1125989419?ean=9781939371645



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



http://www.bqbpublishing.com/shop/

http://www.bqbpublishing.com/



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.

http://www.vanessafortenberry.com/




Contact: Vanessa Fortenberry FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE 770-401-4367

[email protected]

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.




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




DeKalb County Public Library

Jubilee of Reading Book Conference

December 7, 2019

Friends of the Auburn Avenue Research Library

Friends 2nd Annual Book Fair & Literacy Festival

October 5, 2019

Write2ignite 2019 Conference, Greenville County, SC

Writing Workshop Facilitator: “Writing 101: The Importance of the 3 R’s”

September 20-21, 2019

Christian Authors Guild,

Coffee & Quill Workshop and Book Signings

September 14, 2019

Decatur Book Festival, Decatur, GA

Society of Children’s Books Writers and Illustrators

August 31, 2019

Douglasville Public Library,

Children’s Author Expo

March 23, 2019


Kids Writing Workshop Facilitator: Out with the Book Report- Let’s Book Talk!

March 20, 2019


Writing Workshop Facilitator: “Just Write”

March 11, 2019

DeKalb County Public Library,

Jubilee of Reading Book Club Conference

December 2, 2018



Off the Shelf Blog Talk Show, Interview

November 10, 2018

Old Town Festival

Society of Children’s Books Writers and Illustrators

October 20, 2018

Nancy Guinn Memorial Library,

Local Author Expo

October 13, 2018

Douglas Public Library,

Author Expo

September 29, 2018

Christian Authors Guild,

Book Signing

September 15, 2018

Villa Rica Public Library,

Author Expo

August 24-25, 2018

Nancy Guinn Memorial Library, Writing Workshop Facilitator, “Writing 101: The Importance of the 3

R’s” (Lunch & Learn)

July 17, 2018

Georgia State University

Atlanta African American Book Festival, Writing Workshop Facilitator: “Six Keys to Your Writing

Success”

July 14, 2018




Writing Workshop Facilitator: “Just Write” (Lunch & Learn)

July 10, 2018

St. Phillip AME Church,

Book Signing

June 17, 2018


Children’s Author Expo

April 14, 2018

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

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

https://inspiredprompt.com/2017/10/11/3-questions-wednesday-with-vanessa-fortenberry-2/

https://www.spreaker.com/user/atribecalledbooks/bookin-around-town-with-vanessa-fortenbe

http://www.bookvana.com/childrensbooks/childrensreligious.html

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=9EwO5zI1UvI



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

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


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

https://www.prlog.org/12573937-local-inspirational-speaker-and-author-presents-writing-workshop.html



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

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


Authors Showcase

January 9 & 23, 2016


Give Your Loved Ones the Gift of Reading Authors Showcase

December 12, 2015

http://www.ajc.com/news/news/local-education/group-honors-retired-dekalb-school-teacher-with-sc/nrq28/



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

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


Authors Showcase & Music History Lesson for Children

August 8, 2015


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

http://jenniferslatterylivesoutloud.com/2015/12/03/unpack-your-talents

https://jenniferhallmark.com/2015/10/19/a-compassionate-heart

http://www.christianauthorsguild.org/

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

Mama, I Want to See God Book Trailer

February 21, 2015


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


http://caotchristianbooktourparticipants.blogspot.com/

http://www.yelp.com/events/hiram-signing-event-with-vanessa-fortenberry

http://www.demopolislibrary.info/documents/FortenberryLunchLearnJune2014_000.pdf

http://www.demopolistimes.com/2014/06/10/demopolis-public-library-to-host-book-signings



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

http://cherisebopape.net/

https://edifier1.wordpress.com/2014/03/20/spotlight-mama-i-want-to-see-god-by-vanessa-fortenberry

https://bqbpublishing.wordpress.com/2014/03/19/an-interview-with-author-vanessa-fortenberry

http://www.mombyexample.com/2014/03/mama-can-i-see-god

http://sallymatheny.blogspot.com/2014/03/mama-i-want-to-see-god.html

http://writemomentswithgod.blogspot.com/2014/03/meet-guest-author-vanessa-fortenberry.html



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

http://media.wix.com/ugd/85a2f8_d9d1e6c3b94245759db126e536ace50a.pdf

https://www.prlog.org/12280623-author-vanessa-fortenberry-releases-childrens-book-that-seeks-to-connect-young-readers-with-god.html

https://www.prlog.org/12280623-author-vanessa-fortenberry-releases-childrens-book-that-seeks-to-connect-young-readers-with-god.html



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?



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!



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.



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



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



Publicity Photos

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Marketing Products

Daddy, I Want to Know God Front Cover

Daddy, I Want to Know God Cover

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Sample Illustrations and Text

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Vanessa Fortenberry Inspirational Author and Speaker...Vanessa mistakenly (how many of you know it was not a mistake?) turned the TV channel to the 700 Club. A conversation about how

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