Thinking Thursday - Zenobia and Archery

Thinking Thursday-

Archery has become very popular sport. Movies like Hunger games, Brave, and Avengers have helped increase the popularity bringing a new awareness to archery.

Archery became the most watched event on NBC in week one at the 2012 London Olympic games. Discussed In an article for SFGate.com http://blog.sfgate.com/olympics/2012/08/24/movies-like-the-hunger-games-have-helped-bring-archery-into-mainstream-consciousness/

New York Times article also questions if it is Hunger Games that made the sport popular at the Olympics. http://mediadecoder.blogs.nytimes.com/2012/08/02/archery-draws-a-big-tv-audience-could-hunger-games-be-the-reason/

Like Katniss in Hunger Games, Zenobia was a natural at archery. Zenobia learns that you may be good at something but you can always challenging yourself and improve.

Zenobia’s desire to become a warrior was granted. Even though it was unheard of for a girl in those days, Cam had made a deal and he stuck to it. In Chapter four we began Zenobia’s training and even though she is already skilled as an archer she still has lots to learn. Here’s an excerpt:

     “You’re holding the bow wrong,” Cam said once again. She had stubbornly resisted change.

     “It’s the way I learned, and it works,” replied Zenobia, speaking matter-of-factly. “I’m the best archer in the tribe.”

     And O so humble, thought Cam. But she was, for her age, absolutely the best he had ever seen, and he had apprenticed a lot of young warriors. He decided on an intellectual approach with her today. “You will be better if you do it my way.”

     Better. That did interest her. “How soon?” She asked.

     “Later. With a lot of practice.”

     She didn’t like that. “How much better, and how much later?”

     “I assume you want to be the best warrior you can be. So, it should not matter how much better. But, the answer is a lot better. Here’s why”…..

      Zenobia's choice of weapon is the bow and arrow which not only does it come in handy for war but for Zenobia's survival; being proficient in archery will save her life many times. There is an exciting scene when Zenobia is under attack by a leopard and even though her bow is drawn she doesn’t shoot an arrow through the deadly animal. You can read about this dangerous event in chapter five. 

Book One Zenobia – Birth of a Legend is available at www.geodepress.com; amazon.com; smashwords.com; local bookstores and libraries.

Tuesday Teaser sentences from Zenobia - Challenging a Legend

Tuesday Teaser- We jumped ahead to the sentences that we were editing this week because the scenes were so exciting. In book two Zenobia takes part in a dangerous rescue at sea.

Chapter 27

“Storms, I heard that there is a ship with some pretty mermaids on it. I’d like to get me a trip on that! I’d have a voyage with a little excitement for a change!” Salim nudged his friend to keep quiet.

Chapter 28

“Quick as a leopard, he grabbed her, catching her completely off guard, and hurled her over the side. “I warned you,” he reminded her as she splashed around in the sea.

Chapter 29

“To grow up under the constant threat of death, just because of your gender, is an unsettling experience. In fact, it’s life altering”

Chapter 30

“Salim’s eyes widened. It had been over a year since he had seen her in dance costume, and she had filled out very nicely. She was growing into a strikingly beautiful woman, even prettier than her mother.”  With two hands on the sword, she touched the point to the deck and the music began.

Thinking Thursday –Education plays a big part in Zenobia – Birth of a Legend.

Exciting news Zenobia - Birth of a Legend is available to purchase at Changing Hands Bookstore located at 6428 S McClintock Dr. Tempe, AZ 85283. Go pick your copy up today!

For more information and sample chapters go to www.geodepress.com

Zenobia masqueraded as a boy to stay alive until age nine. We read in chapter one: “At a surprisingly early age, Zenobia has grasped and embraced the role laid out for her preservation. This lit a fire that would burn deep inside her for the rest of her life, a desire to prove that a girl could be just as valuable as a boy and a woman just as valiant and skilled as a man.”

There are many stories of girls pretending to be boys to survive and follow their dreams. Here is a list below of a few books I found to be similar to Zenobia’s story: 

Dangerous favors by Joyce Dipastena – “Mathlide and Girard run into an enemy that can only be a ghost, as he was suppose to be dead. Girard has to hide Mathlide to save her life. He cuts her long blonde hair off and dresses her up as a squire. He sends her to Therri to work for him.”  (For the full book review http://juliemartinwallace.blogspot.com/2012/03/tale-of-knights-tournaments-murder.html) 

Eon and Eona by Alison Goodman – “In a world of lies, the truth can be deadly …Under the harsh regime of an ambitious master; Eon is training to become a Dragoneye – a powerful Lord able to command wind and water to protect the land. But Eon also harbours a desperate secret – he is in fact a young woman living a dangerous masquerade that, if discovered, will mean certain death. (I’m currently reading this series; look for book review coming soon @ http://juliemartinwallace.blogspot.com/.)

The Song of the Lioness quartet by Tamora Pierce- “In a time when girls are forbidden to be warriors, Alanna of Trebond wants nothing more than to be knight of the realm of Tortall. (This sounds very intriguing and Alanna is a powerful warrior like Zenobia.)

The Girl-Son by Anne Neuberger- “Induk Pahk was born in a Korean peasant cottage in 1896. Although Induk's mother was illiterate, she wanted a better life for her daughter so she schemed and conspired to educate her. Since Korean schools did not admit girls, Induk received her early schooling disguised as a boy. Later in life Induk Pahk became an educator and a lecturer who traveled widely and advanced the cause of women in Korea.” (This reminds me how Zelina wanted a better life for her daughter Zenobia and how the courage of a mother changes history.)

To see more books about girls pretending to be boys:
http://www.booksbesidemybed.com/2011/09/reading-lists-girls-pretending-to-be.html

What do all these women have in common? These fictional and real women have courage. 

Zenobia displays bravery at a very young age. Zenobia’s true gender is revealed and the council is deciding her fate.

     “So, Zenobia, you prefer to look like a boy? Zabbai asked.

     “I would prefer to be a boy, my Lord.”

     Laughter filled the tent at her comment. “We agree with your assessment, Zenobia, but since that is not possible, why this?”He touched her shortened hair.

     She wanted to say, To keep you from killing me! She realized it might not be well received. Instead she replied, “To stay alive, my Lord.”

     This frank reply stirred the group of men. Zabbai felt mildly rebuked, not only by her, but also by the circumstances. Food had been very limited during those times. Many had not agreed with his decision about the baby girls, and he had relented and canceled it after two years. Nevertheless, the disobedience of Zelina could cost her dearly. Women had been exiled and executed for less.

    “And are you prepared to learn the ways of a girl now?”

     “I have no need of that, my Lord. I wish to be a warrior!”

     There was more laughter at this earnest response. Zabbai asked, “What makes you think you could be a warrior, Zenobia?”

     “I can shoot out the eye of a boar at 20 paces!”

Check back next week for more Thinking Thursday as Zenobia starts her training as a warrior. 

Sneak Peek of book two, Zenobia - Challenging a Legend

Every Tuesday we will be posting a teaser sentence from book two on our website www.geodepress.com. I thought I would share it on the blog for everyone to enjoy. Below read some of the reviews we've received from book one, Zenobia - Birth of a Legend. Everybody who's read book one can't wait for book two. Read and find out why.

Prologue-

“The man was powerful, in personality, in mind, and in strength. He was rich and used to getting his own way, but his ambition had recently been thwarted. The person responsible had thus become his enemy.”

Chapter One-

Zenobia laughed lightly. “Predatory humans concern me far more, for reasons you likely know quite well.”

What are people saying about Zenobia – Birth of a Legend?

“I just wanted to let you know I absolutely LOVED "Zenobia”!! I couldn’t put it down and ended up devouring it in one day! The characters were amazing and inspiring! Russ, I really enjoyed your writing style and am eagerly awaiting the next book! If you like adventure found in a great book, you should check out Zenobia!” - Katra Martel

"Zenobia was a great book. I read it in 2 days and thought it was a wonderful story. The characters were delightful to get to know. Girls can do a lot more than they are given credit for.  I can't wait to read the next book in the series!" – Brenda Bible

“I read it and enjoyed it from the beginning to the end. It was an exciting story and had one of the best horserace type stories I’ve ever read. I liked it because it was based on fact. I’m waiting for number two book to come out.” – Floyd Martin

Why should I read Zenobia?

To those who fight for justice will fall in love with the beautiful, brilliant Zenobia, a warrior queen who battles for freedom. 

Zenobia will appeal to Young Adults who love to champion a strong and intelligent girl. Historians and lovers of ancient history will also find that Wallace did his diligence in researching this time and the story of Zenobia.

Even though Zenobia grew up in the 3rd century we can learn from her today that you don't have to just accept injustice, you can make a difference. 

We hope that all who read her story will be inspired to stand up and take action against the unfairness of this world. 

We all have hard decisions and paths to take, Zenobia's example will give you inspiration to overcome those things that are holding you back.  

Zenobia was marked for death 

Zenobia was a girl in a man's world 

That didn't stop her as she proved she was valuable, used critical thinking, and set her sights as high as they could go. 

Great Reviews of Zenobia - Birth of a Legend

"If Russ's first book is any indication of the planned series, this first-book author should move quickly up the best seller's list and remain there for years to come." 

"Zenobia - beautiful, intelligent, and powerful. And she was real. Russ Wallace's Zenobia - Birth of a Legend, Book 1, is a rich coming-of-age saga based on true events that transport you back in time to the desert of ancient Syria, 250 CE. It chronicles what is known of the Syrian queen's youth, wrapped in imaginative tales of the vibrant life she might have led. To protect her life, Zenobia's gender was hidden until her ninth year. She understood the need for deception, but once exposed, the dynamic girl persuaded their male-dominated tribe to fulfill her dream, training her to become a cunning warrior. The new twist of discovery in Zenobia's life offered the best of both worlds, creating a budding womanly warrior few men could resist.
I love reading historical novels and this one is particularly interesting. Having traveled through the Middle East, which was once part of Zenobia's landscape, I easily visualized the ancient events Wallace depicts. Aptly blending fact and fiction is a tricky art, but he cleverly mixes education, history, political and religious theories, action and adventure, with a young girls emotional discoveries.
Zenobia's allure will attract more than today's young adults who will identify with the girl, though they are millennial apart. Her thirst for knowledge and penchant for righteousness, and Wallace's historical acumen in satisfying them, will be a magnet for political aficionados and military tacticians. Like for me, she will resonate too, with women who admire the empowerment Zenobia embodies as she battles injustices.
Well-written and imaginative, fast-paced and exciting, this is a book that will fascinate and charm. I not only identify with Zenobia's passion and staunch support of equality, but enjoy the personality Wallace infused into this exceptional ruler. With every page you will marvel at the intricate details of thought expressed by his characters, and wonder with him at how little we have learned as a society, through the ages. '
Woven in the fascinating narrative of Zenobia, Russ Wallace features the humanity of history - and sometimes lack of it - acquainting us with a remarkable time in ancient cultures. Much like today, country borders and even whole countries appeared and disappeared in the earth's "blink of an eye." And as now, world-changing events were largely due to the dynamic politics and warring strategies of those who ruled the most powerful countries - Zenobia was such a leader. Book 1 is a great beginning." - LinDee Rochelle - owner of  http://www.penchantforpenning.com/ ; Founded and administered Women Writers of the Desert, a metro Phoenix organization for nearly five years, which transformed into an online resource to benefit women on a broader scale and renamed Women Writers Worldwide. http://www.womenwritersworldwide.com/

Free book giveaway ends tonight at midnight PST!

Don't miss your chance to win a free copy of Zenobia - Birth of a Legend. It's simple to enter, click on link below. On Joyce's blog and book review of Zenobia - Birth of a Legend, write a comment and your email address. http://jdp-news.blogspot.com/2012/08/author-interview-and-giveaway-zenobia.html

As Zenobia would say, "A bag of scorpions if you don't win!" 

Joyce DiPastena is Author of LOYALTY'S WEB, ILLUMINATIONS OF THE HEART, 

and DANGEROUS FAVOR. She fell in love with the Middle Ages when she first read Thomas B. Costain's THE CONQUERING FAMILY in high school. Joyce is a graduate of University of Arizona with a degree specializing in medieval history. 

For more ways to win a copy of Zenobia - Birth of a Legend go to www.facebook.com/geodepress and like our Facebook page for a chance to win a free book. Or more information about the exciting new historical series please visit our website:  http://geodepress.com/zenobia-birth-of-a-legend/ 

ZENOBIA and Critical Thinking

In the first book and continuing into book two of the Zenobia series, we experience education in the 3rd century as Zenobia travels to Alexandria, Egypt. One of the classes that she takes is Critical Thinking taught by Cassius Dionysius Longinus. Historically this may not have happened, but what we do know is Zenobia was very educated and spoke many languages. She also displayed the ability to use critical thinking as she became queen and challenged Rome for supremacy of the region.  

The New York Times has a challenge a day on Critical thinking. This is a great way to broaden your education like Zenobia did. Click on the link and let your critical thinking class begin.  http://learning.blogs.nytimes.com/2012/07/30/new-feature-test-yourself-critical-thinking/

What is Critical thinking?

Here are some web definitions: Critical thinking, in its broadest sense has been described as "purposeful reflective judgment concerning what to believe or what to do." en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Critical_thinking An ability to evaluate information and opinions in a systematic, purposeful, efficient manner. www.greenbeebuzz.com/about

Logical thinking that draws conclusions from facts and evidence.

www.ncrel.org/sdrs/areas/misc/glossary.htm

Zenobia - Birth of a Legend is now available

Zenobia - Challenging a Legend is due to be released later this year

For more information and to purchase your book visit our website:

www.geodepress.com

or available in hardcover or ebook at:

http://www.amazon.com/Zenobia-Birth-Legend-Russ-Wallace

http://www.amazon.com/Zenobia-Birth-Legend-World-ebook

http://www.smashwords.com/books/view/94629

Joyce DiPastena Book Review and Free Book Giveaway

Joyce DiPastena's book review of Zenobia - Birth of a Legend view at http://jdp-news.blogspot.com/2012/08/author-interview-and-giveaway-zenobia.html#.UBlR-E1mTug

Joyce DiPastena is Author of LOYALTY'S WEB, ILLUMINATIONS OF THE HEART, and DANGEROUS FAVOR. She fell in love with the Middle Ages when she first read Thomas B. Costain’s THE CONQUERING FAMILY in high school. A graduate of the University of Arizona with a degree specializing in medieval history, Joyce lives in Arizona with her two cats, Clio and Glinka Rimsky-Korsokov.


Check out the book review and enter to win a free book giveaway on her blog. Contest will run Aug 1st - Aug 8th 2012 and one lucky winner will win a free copy of Zenobia - Birth of a Legend.

For more ways to win a copy of Zenobia - Birth of a Legend go to https://www.facebook.com/geodepress and like our facebook page for a chance to win a free book.

For more information about the exciting new historical series please visit our website: http://geodepress.com/zenobia-birth-of-a-legend/