March 28, 2012

American Dreams

This week I'd like to introduce you to Melinda and Shaelee Elmore. Melinda is a Native American author who I had the opportunity to coach on her novel, NATIVE SPIRIT. Melinda is a wonderful, strong woman devoted to the culture of her ancestors. Her novel was sweet and filled with the traditions of the Native American West.

Tragically, the Elmore family unexpectedly lost their husband and father, Tom, last year, and Melinda's life turned upside down. She is now a single mother dealing with challenges she never thought she'd have to bear. Her courage and fortitude have impressed me as much as her desire to write and share what she loves.

Recently, Dancing With Bear Publishing featured a thirty page essay from Melinda's daughter, Shaelee. I agreed to share information about Shaelee's work, because not only do I believe all young writers should be encouraged, I know it would make her proud to share the memories of her father.

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We are all brothers and sisters. Our families do and should mean everything to us. The Elmore family has reminded me of those who encouraged me to write while in my youth, and also that life goes on, even when we can't be with the ones we love. For now.

Best of luck, Shaelee.

~Danielle Thorne 


Find out more about Native American author, Melinda Elmore, at her website.

17 comments:

DWB Christian Publishing said...

Melinda and I have become very close since the publishing of her book, Blood on the Feather, which was published just a month before Tommy passed away. Having lost my own husband, Melinda and I were able to bond through this tragedy. When she sent Shae's essay, I, at first simply wanted to give Shae something tangible to hold on to as she grows older that will keep her father's memories close to her heart. After reading the essay and seeing how articulate Shaelee is, I knew this piece was not just for Shae but for all young people who are struggling with the loss of a parent. I feel very privileged to not only be Melinda and Shaelee's publisher, but a friend of the entire family. Melinda's son, Erik is a photographer and I expect to see a collection of his work on coffee tables across the nation very soon!

Marie McGaha

Victoria Roder said...

Wow, two authors in one family. I wish you both lots of success.

rbooth43 said...

I have read and reviewed Melinda's books, Native Spirit, Blood On The Feather and Journey to Christmas Creek on Amazon, Library Thing, Good Reads, Shelfari and any website blogs that were appropiate. She is an amazing, compassionate writer and I consider her my friend. I am so proud of Shaelee and plan on reading and reviewing her book. They are such a loving family.
Hugs to Melinda and Shaelee!
Rebecca

Debbie said...

Best wishes and continued success to Melinda and Shaelee.

Gail Pallotta said...

I'm sorry for your loss Melinda and Shaelee.
Congratulations on your writing and blessings as you continue to share about your lives.

Patty said...

I'm so sorry for that deep loss. I hope that healing comes, perhaps even though writing. God bless!

Melinda said...

My dear Marie and DWB Publishing,

I want to thank you so very much for everything you have done for us. We love you dearly and we thank you for standing beside of us in our most tragic times. You have helped me beyond belief and we truly appreciate it. You are a part of our family and always will be.

Melinda

Melinda said...

Danielle,

Thank you for having us on here today. You are a great friend and yes you helped me a lot of Native Spirit and I am truly thankful.

Melinda

Melinda said...

Victoria,

Thank you for stopping by.

Melinda

Melinda said...

Rebecca,

Thank you my dear friend. You are an amazing person.

Melinda

Melinda said...

Debbie,
Thank you for all the encouraging words..
Melinda

Melinda said...

Gail,

Thank you for stopping by. We are truly blessed to have known and got to love Tommy. We miss him so much.

Melinda

Melinda said...

Patty,

Thank you. We miss Tommy more than anything. He meant everything to us.

Melinda

VoicesinPrint said...

I am impressed at your willingness to support Melinda and her daughter - how we reach out to others is, in my estimation, one of the ways we leave our mark on the world.

MUCH happiness in your day.
A

Melinda said...

Voices in Print,

Thank you so much. Your words are so true that is the way to leave your mark in this world...

Melinda

Miss Mae said...

I'm so sorry to hear of the loss of a father, and your husband. But congrats on getting your story published and out to the world.

Thank you for sharing your story with us. :)

Melinda said...

Miss Mae,

Thank you so very much....We miss Tommy so much...He is and was the best father in the world...

Thank you for stopping by.....

Melinda/Shaelee