Hi everybody,
I've decided to take some time off the various internet forums that I have joined (including my blog) and focus solely on finishing the second gamebook in my Woodland Forest Chronicles series. Once it is complete, I'll be back to chat.
See you later.
Jasan
Monday, 26 May 2008
Tuesday, 20 May 2008
6 1/2 months into the adventure...
After 6 months and 15 days of being a published author, sales of "Invitation to a Feast," are continuing to increase. There are now 120 sales that I know of. I still haven't had the opportunity to speak at any functions yet but that may change soon. I'll keep you up-to-date with how that goes.
Monday, 19 May 2008
Woodland Forest Chronicles to continue - The King's Scrolls on hold
I have made a decision recently to place my planned fantasy gamebook series for teens, "The King's Scrolls," on hold while I continue writing more stories in the Woodland Forest Chronicles series. It is better to get one series off the ground before attempting another, and the amount of stories in my head for the Woodland Forest Chronicles series is still increasing.
I have ideas for some prequel stories (set before "Invitation to a Feast") down the track, that will go right back to the beginning of how Woodland Forest was established, the beginnings of The Noble Ranger and the events leading up to the rebellion by The Dark Panther and his cohorts of wolves and foxes.
For now, I have nearly completed the first draft of book #2 in the WFC series. It will be the first book in a two-part duology. My working title for the story is "Journey to Mount Darkness." I will continue to provide readers with more information as time goes on.
Have a great day!
J P Barnett
I have ideas for some prequel stories (set before "Invitation to a Feast") down the track, that will go right back to the beginning of how Woodland Forest was established, the beginnings of The Noble Ranger and the events leading up to the rebellion by The Dark Panther and his cohorts of wolves and foxes.
For now, I have nearly completed the first draft of book #2 in the WFC series. It will be the first book in a two-part duology. My working title for the story is "Journey to Mount Darkness." I will continue to provide readers with more information as time goes on.
Have a great day!
J P Barnett
Monday, 12 May 2008
What a review!
My first major review of "Invitation to a Feast" has been received...and what a review it is!
REVIEW - INVITATION TO A FEAST
The best thing about the book is that no matter how many times I read it, I am surprised every time because it all happens by chance!!
Yes it is a challenge indeed. The book made me think about my choices, because every choice had a consequence and I wanted to make the right choice!! I tried to follow the Noble Ranger's guidance, and still, so many times I did not make it to the feast!
The use of the dice made the book even more challenging, as this was something that I could not control and often got me in to trouble! It was most exciting when something new happened and I had no idea what to expect next. Especially when I encountered dangerous animals that wanted to stop me getting to the feast! Those were very fun times and full of adventure! Especially the weasel...I met with him quite a few times!! I think in all, that I tried to get to the feast about 9 times...
...but when I eventually unlocked that gate...
I was so excited (especially when I got to meet the Noble Ranger!!) and all of my hard work really did pay off! I didn't want the fun to end...and I look forward to my next adventure with Jumpster Rabbit.
Invitation to a Feast is just so much fun to read and I can read it anywhere!
Thanks so much for such an enjoyable reading adventure! Zadie-Jane Clapham, 10.
(The original posting of the review can be seen by clicking here)
Thank you, Zadie-Jane, for this encouragement,
Jasan
REVIEW - INVITATION TO A FEAST
The best thing about the book is that no matter how many times I read it, I am surprised every time because it all happens by chance!!
Yes it is a challenge indeed. The book made me think about my choices, because every choice had a consequence and I wanted to make the right choice!! I tried to follow the Noble Ranger's guidance, and still, so many times I did not make it to the feast!
The use of the dice made the book even more challenging, as this was something that I could not control and often got me in to trouble! It was most exciting when something new happened and I had no idea what to expect next. Especially when I encountered dangerous animals that wanted to stop me getting to the feast! Those were very fun times and full of adventure! Especially the weasel...I met with him quite a few times!! I think in all, that I tried to get to the feast about 9 times...
...but when I eventually unlocked that gate...
I was so excited (especially when I got to meet the Noble Ranger!!) and all of my hard work really did pay off! I didn't want the fun to end...and I look forward to my next adventure with Jumpster Rabbit.
Invitation to a Feast is just so much fun to read and I can read it anywhere!
Thanks so much for such an enjoyable reading adventure! Zadie-Jane Clapham, 10.
(The original posting of the review can be seen by clicking here)
Thank you, Zadie-Jane, for this encouragement,
Jasan
Tuesday, 8 April 2008
"Invitation to a Feast" has made the newspapers!
Hi all,
I'm pleased to share that an article has appeared in a local newspaper (in the eastern suburbs of Melbourne) that discusses "Invitation to a Feast." It is a short article, but publicises the story well, I feel. The newspaper (Leader) is distributed to around 70,000 local residents.
If you wish to read the article, you can do so by clicking here
See you later,
Jasan
I'm pleased to share that an article has appeared in a local newspaper (in the eastern suburbs of Melbourne) that discusses "Invitation to a Feast." It is a short article, but publicises the story well, I feel. The newspaper (Leader) is distributed to around 70,000 local residents.
If you wish to read the article, you can do so by clicking here
See you later,
Jasan
Tuesday, 18 March 2008
Market day adventures!
Hello again,
I would like to share with you all the latest (successful) chapter in my writing adventures.
On March 1 (a Saturday), I successfully acquired a casual stall (for the day) at the local monthly market in Warrandyte to sell my newly published children's book (Invitation to a Feast). The market ran for 4 hours, I sold 8 copies of the book and gave away about 50 cards that advertised my website. Considering there were a couple of things I did wrong (from an advertising point of view), to still sell 8 copies was a great success.
One lady in particular who was selling craft items from a stall opposite mine, bought one of my books an hour or so into the market and spent a generous amount of her market time telling other shoppers around the area about my book as well! She ended up taking approx. 20-30 of my business cards to give away to other people at another market she was attending the next day. (Thanks Margaret!)
Yesterday, I spent the day at Croydon market (very hot, about 36 degrees celcius) and managed to sell another three books. Considering the unpleasant weather, I was very happy to sell three and give away approx. 30 business cards.
I would like to share with you all the latest (successful) chapter in my writing adventures.
On March 1 (a Saturday), I successfully acquired a casual stall (for the day) at the local monthly market in Warrandyte to sell my newly published children's book (Invitation to a Feast). The market ran for 4 hours, I sold 8 copies of the book and gave away about 50 cards that advertised my website. Considering there were a couple of things I did wrong (from an advertising point of view), to still sell 8 copies was a great success.
One lady in particular who was selling craft items from a stall opposite mine, bought one of my books an hour or so into the market and spent a generous amount of her market time telling other shoppers around the area about my book as well! She ended up taking approx. 20-30 of my business cards to give away to other people at another market she was attending the next day. (Thanks Margaret!)
Yesterday, I spent the day at Croydon market (very hot, about 36 degrees celcius) and managed to sell another three books. Considering the unpleasant weather, I was very happy to sell three and give away approx. 30 business cards.
Tuesday, 19 February 2008
Invitation to a Feast - Pages 1 through 10
As promised, I have posted pages 1 through 10 of "Invitation to a Feast" on "Woodland Forest Chronicles" today. For those who would like to buy the book, you can visit www.freewebs.com/jumpsterhopper
Page 1
This is a tale about a rabbit called Jumpster. He lived with his father, mother, three brothers and two sisters in an old burrow, situated at the base of a twisted Oak tree. Long ago, his grandfather and grandmother (on his father’s side) also dwelt there. Jumpster’s grandfather had named it Hopper’s burrow. (Hopper was Jumpster’s last name).
Hopper’s burrow was part of Woodland Forest. A kind and loving man called the Noble Ranger took care of the forest. He watched over it and looked after all the woodland creatures within, apart from the wolves and foxes. They were once members of the Noble Ranger’s animal family, but in ages past, they chose to leave him and join the Dark Panther. He was a black, wild cat that wanted the forest as his own so he could eat up the small animals.
Page 2
One sunny spring morning, after the early dew had vanished, Mrs Hopper was in the kitchen busily preparing breakfast for her children. It was the usual recipe of stewed carrots with milk. Presently, the sudden sound of a bell ringing outside the burrow broke the calmness. “Ding-a-ding-ding!”
Mrs Hopper knowingly turned her head towards Jumpster’s bedroom, where he was playing with his toys. She called out, “Jumpster! The postman has arrived! Could you go out and bring the mail in please!”
Almost immediately, Jumpster came hopping out of his bedroom. He enjoyed collecting the post each day. “I wonder what will be in the letterbox today?” he thought to himself, as he raced out of the burrow.
Page 3
Back inside, Mrs Hopper finished her cup of tea and placed it on the dining table. She looked closely at the envelope that Jumpster had fetched for her. “It is addressed to your father,” she explained to him. “And by looking at the seal on the envelope, it seems that it is from the Noble Ranger. Your father can open this after delivering the messages this morning.”
Jumpster’s father was the envoy of Woodland forest. His job was very important. It was up to him to carry key messages to the folk of the forest.
Page 4
Jumpster was very excited. His father had received a letter from the Noble Ranger! Jumpster considered this for a moment and concluded that he felt he had an idea as to what was in the envelope. All this did though was to cause him more excitement. Despite this, he kept quiet so as not to vex his mother with questions. Instead, he went to play with his younger siblings in his bedroom until his father arrived home. Sure enough, just before lunch, Mr Hopper walked in through the front door as soon as Mrs Hopper had placed each of the soup bowls on the table. Mrs Hopper had cooked lettuce and parsley soup for lunch, which was Mr Hopper’s favourite.
When everyone had eaten their fill, Mr Hopper put on his reading glasses and opened the letter. Once he had read it to himself, he gestured to his family for their attention. After he was satisfied that they were watching him, he spoke.
Page 5
“The Noble Ranger is asking all the young animals who are of age to go to his yearly celebration feast. It will be held in his home at the eastern edge of Woodland Forest,” explained Mr Hopper. “At the feast, the guests will thank the Noble Ranger for all he has done for us animal folk this past year.”
Jumpster’s heart filled with joy. His guess was correct! He thought back to the previous banquet last year and the sadness he had felt when told he could not go, for he was not yet old enough. The Noble Ranger had advised Jumpster to be patient and wait for the next event, as he would be of suitable age then.
Page 6
Mr Hopper went on, “invites are offered to those whom are loyal to the Noble Ranger. They extend, though, only to the eldest offspring of each family. The date of the feast is seven days from now.”
Mr Hopper placed the note on the table and looked at Jumpster. “This means, Jumpster, that you will represent the Hopper family at this event. You will need to do well just to attend, because not all who are called end up attending the feast. You must pass a test in order to enter into the Noble Ranger’s territory. This is explained in one more letter that the Noble Ranger has written to you, Jumpster.”
Page 7
In his bedroom, Jumpster’s paws shook with excitement as he read his letter from the Noble Ranger.
To my dear rabbit, Jumpster,
Please accept my request for you to attend a feast that I am holding in my name. I offer this not to all but to whom I believe are ready to handle the responsibility that comes with being at this event. Even so, not all whom are invited will make it. When tested, their efforts will fall short of what is required. I hope with all of my heart that you are not one of those.
Page 8
If you really want to be at my feast, it is very important that you take care to keep the following commands as you travel to my home:
Stay on the Cobblestone Road.
Make straight paths for your feet.
Hold on to this invitation at all times. I will not allow you to enter my lands if it is lost.
I am looking forward to seeing you,
With all my love,
The Noble Ranger
Jumpster kept his invite in his special box of treasures and read it every day until the morning of the banquet arrived.
Record the invitation under the list of equipment on Jumpster’s character scroll.
Page 9
Eventually, the morning of the feast arrived. Jumpster’s family gathered outside to farewell him from Hopper’s burrow. Mr Hopper was beaming with pride for Jumpster. Mrs Hopper, while also proud, softly shed a few tears, as she knew there would be dangers along the way for her son. Jumpster and his family exchanged many hugs and kisses.
Mrs Hopper had packed Jumpster’s rucksack with some fresh carrots from her garden for him to eat on his journey.
Record the carrots under the list of equipment on Jumpster’s character scroll.
Jumpster had tied his invitation to his belt firmly. He did not dare risk losing it.
“Be sure to stay away from any wolves or foxes Jumpster!” advised his parents.
“I will Mum and Dad!” promised Jumpster.
He waved goodbye and set off south towards the Cobblestone Road.
Page 10
Only a few minutes into his journey, Jumpster passed underneath the home of Mrs Robin Redbreast. She lived in a nest on an overhanging branch of a maple tree. This morning, she was sitting on her two unhatched eggs.
Just as Jumpster was about to say “Hello!” to Mrs Redbreast, a severe, unexpected gust of wind blew through the tree, unsteadying her. As a result, she bumped into and dislodged one of her eggs from the nest. It fell a short distance from Jumpster, who knew he could catch it if he was quick enough. He barely had a moment to save the egg from hitting the earth and breaking. He dived with his paw outstretched. Roll one die.
If you roll a 1, 2 or 3, go on to the next page.
If you roll a 4 or 5, turn to page –12-
If you roll a 6, turn to page –13-
Page 1
This is a tale about a rabbit called Jumpster. He lived with his father, mother, three brothers and two sisters in an old burrow, situated at the base of a twisted Oak tree. Long ago, his grandfather and grandmother (on his father’s side) also dwelt there. Jumpster’s grandfather had named it Hopper’s burrow. (Hopper was Jumpster’s last name).
Hopper’s burrow was part of Woodland Forest. A kind and loving man called the Noble Ranger took care of the forest. He watched over it and looked after all the woodland creatures within, apart from the wolves and foxes. They were once members of the Noble Ranger’s animal family, but in ages past, they chose to leave him and join the Dark Panther. He was a black, wild cat that wanted the forest as his own so he could eat up the small animals.
Page 2
One sunny spring morning, after the early dew had vanished, Mrs Hopper was in the kitchen busily preparing breakfast for her children. It was the usual recipe of stewed carrots with milk. Presently, the sudden sound of a bell ringing outside the burrow broke the calmness. “Ding-a-ding-ding!”
Mrs Hopper knowingly turned her head towards Jumpster’s bedroom, where he was playing with his toys. She called out, “Jumpster! The postman has arrived! Could you go out and bring the mail in please!”
Almost immediately, Jumpster came hopping out of his bedroom. He enjoyed collecting the post each day. “I wonder what will be in the letterbox today?” he thought to himself, as he raced out of the burrow.
Page 3
Back inside, Mrs Hopper finished her cup of tea and placed it on the dining table. She looked closely at the envelope that Jumpster had fetched for her. “It is addressed to your father,” she explained to him. “And by looking at the seal on the envelope, it seems that it is from the Noble Ranger. Your father can open this after delivering the messages this morning.”
Jumpster’s father was the envoy of Woodland forest. His job was very important. It was up to him to carry key messages to the folk of the forest.
Page 4
Jumpster was very excited. His father had received a letter from the Noble Ranger! Jumpster considered this for a moment and concluded that he felt he had an idea as to what was in the envelope. All this did though was to cause him more excitement. Despite this, he kept quiet so as not to vex his mother with questions. Instead, he went to play with his younger siblings in his bedroom until his father arrived home. Sure enough, just before lunch, Mr Hopper walked in through the front door as soon as Mrs Hopper had placed each of the soup bowls on the table. Mrs Hopper had cooked lettuce and parsley soup for lunch, which was Mr Hopper’s favourite.
When everyone had eaten their fill, Mr Hopper put on his reading glasses and opened the letter. Once he had read it to himself, he gestured to his family for their attention. After he was satisfied that they were watching him, he spoke.
Page 5
“The Noble Ranger is asking all the young animals who are of age to go to his yearly celebration feast. It will be held in his home at the eastern edge of Woodland Forest,” explained Mr Hopper. “At the feast, the guests will thank the Noble Ranger for all he has done for us animal folk this past year.”
Jumpster’s heart filled with joy. His guess was correct! He thought back to the previous banquet last year and the sadness he had felt when told he could not go, for he was not yet old enough. The Noble Ranger had advised Jumpster to be patient and wait for the next event, as he would be of suitable age then.
Page 6
Mr Hopper went on, “invites are offered to those whom are loyal to the Noble Ranger. They extend, though, only to the eldest offspring of each family. The date of the feast is seven days from now.”
Mr Hopper placed the note on the table and looked at Jumpster. “This means, Jumpster, that you will represent the Hopper family at this event. You will need to do well just to attend, because not all who are called end up attending the feast. You must pass a test in order to enter into the Noble Ranger’s territory. This is explained in one more letter that the Noble Ranger has written to you, Jumpster.”
Page 7
In his bedroom, Jumpster’s paws shook with excitement as he read his letter from the Noble Ranger.
To my dear rabbit, Jumpster,
Please accept my request for you to attend a feast that I am holding in my name. I offer this not to all but to whom I believe are ready to handle the responsibility that comes with being at this event. Even so, not all whom are invited will make it. When tested, their efforts will fall short of what is required. I hope with all of my heart that you are not one of those.
Page 8
If you really want to be at my feast, it is very important that you take care to keep the following commands as you travel to my home:
Stay on the Cobblestone Road.
Make straight paths for your feet.
Hold on to this invitation at all times. I will not allow you to enter my lands if it is lost.
I am looking forward to seeing you,
With all my love,
The Noble Ranger
Jumpster kept his invite in his special box of treasures and read it every day until the morning of the banquet arrived.
Record the invitation under the list of equipment on Jumpster’s character scroll.
Page 9
Eventually, the morning of the feast arrived. Jumpster’s family gathered outside to farewell him from Hopper’s burrow. Mr Hopper was beaming with pride for Jumpster. Mrs Hopper, while also proud, softly shed a few tears, as she knew there would be dangers along the way for her son. Jumpster and his family exchanged many hugs and kisses.
Mrs Hopper had packed Jumpster’s rucksack with some fresh carrots from her garden for him to eat on his journey.
Record the carrots under the list of equipment on Jumpster’s character scroll.
Jumpster had tied his invitation to his belt firmly. He did not dare risk losing it.
“Be sure to stay away from any wolves or foxes Jumpster!” advised his parents.
“I will Mum and Dad!” promised Jumpster.
He waved goodbye and set off south towards the Cobblestone Road.
Page 10
Only a few minutes into his journey, Jumpster passed underneath the home of Mrs Robin Redbreast. She lived in a nest on an overhanging branch of a maple tree. This morning, she was sitting on her two unhatched eggs.
Just as Jumpster was about to say “Hello!” to Mrs Redbreast, a severe, unexpected gust of wind blew through the tree, unsteadying her. As a result, she bumped into and dislodged one of her eggs from the nest. It fell a short distance from Jumpster, who knew he could catch it if he was quick enough. He barely had a moment to save the egg from hitting the earth and breaking. He dived with his paw outstretched. Roll one die.
If you roll a 1, 2 or 3, go on to the next page.
If you roll a 4 or 5, turn to page –12-
If you roll a 6, turn to page –13-
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