Jennifer Swanson, author of the highly acclaimed Penny and Rio series of children's books, recently signed with Mariposa Press Inc. for distribution of her titles in English language bookstores throughout France.
"Children around the world will be delighted with the ingenuity of these two dogs," stated Ms. Swanson, “as they solve mysteries and go on adventures right from their own backyard. Great for classrooms or home school, these award winning early chapter books will provide engaging entertainment while also creating exceptional learning opportunities. I am very happy to be working with Mariposa Press."
Mariposa Press Inc. will be handling distribution of Ms. Swanson's titles to English language bookstores throughout France. Mariposa will also be representing Swanson's titles at France's main book expo, the Salon du Livre.
Mariposa Press Inc. has been in business for over 29 years. Laurie Blum, President of Mariposa Press Inc., has worked as both a book packager and editor with industry leaders such as Harper Collins, Simon and Schuster, and Henry Holt. Ms. Blum has over 63 titles to her credit and has sold millions of copies of her books.
Ms. Swanson's books have won numerous industry awards. Both of her books, Penny and Rio: The Mysterious Backyard Meeting, and Penny and Rio: The Locked Doghouse Mystery, have won a Mom's Choice Silver Awards for Juvenile Fiction -- Early Reader. The Mom's Choice Awards esteemed panel of judges includes educators, media and other experts as well as parents, children, librarians, performing artists, producers, medical and business professionals, authors, scientists and others. They have both been awarded The Dove Foundation's Family-Approved Seal.
In addition to writing books about dogs, Jennifer is committed to helping animals. She firmly believes in adopting dogs, and has taught her children the same values. In support of this goal, Jennifer donates a portion of her proceeds to a local Jacksonville pet rescue organization, G.R.E.A.T Rescue. The organization rescues and rehabilitates golden retrievers and places them in their new and forever homes. Jennifer has also recently teamed with Pawsitive Pets, a local organization that takes dogs into schools to help children learn to read.
"I am thrilled to be introducing the dynamic dog detectives, Penny and Rio, to the children of France. It is my hope that the mischievous and entertaining adventures of my two canine characters will fuel their imagination and cause them to look at their own pet's antics in a new and unique manner."
Ms. Swanson is available for interview and can be reached using the information below or by email at PennyAndRio@yahoo.com. More information is available at her website at www.PennyAndRio.com. Her books are available Amazon.com, Barnes and Noble, IndiePendent Books and at her website.
Jennifer Swanson has been writing since the age of 5. A 1990 graduate of the U.S. Naval Academy, Jennifer pursued her other love of science and became a prep school chemistry teacher. Her Navy career took her to Norfolk, VA where she was stationed with her husband, Jon.
Her life changed forever when they adopted Penny, their first dog. Penny was a wonderful addition to their family and less than a year later, they adopted Rio, her best pal. Jennifer kept writing during the next several years as she raised three children, supported her naval officer husband and taught both part and full time.
Today Ms. Swanson continues to work on the Penny and Rio series and recently received her Masters in Education. Jennifer is employed as a middle school science instructor for John Hopkins University's Center for Talented Youth.
Jennifer is an active member of the Society of Children's Book Writers. She regularly attends the Florida branch of SCBWI's conferences in Orlando and Miami. She is also a member of the Florida Writer's Association.
