WELCOME
Hook Up is now available for pre-order
Cody Manywounds's intentions are good, but it seems that every time he makes one little mistake, he gets caught. He got into some serious trouble with his friends a while ago, but since then, things have been looking up - his grades are good, his girlfriend is hot, and the escape to university (and more girls) is just around the corner. Then it all comes crashing down with a single text message: "I'm pregnant. Call me. :)" When Cody's girlfriend decides to get an abortion, he finds himself dealing with conflicting emotions - and discovers how little a say he is given in the matter.
Schizo: "Everyone else just THINKS their parents are crazy" T-shirts are available for $20.00 in small, medium, large and extra large. picture on the shirt :
Signed books are available for $12.00 from this website. Just click the Contact Kim button and place your order.
The BUZZ about Schizo:
"Kim Firmston has crafted a YA novel that has a simple plot and lots of depth. She brings up many rich and complex themes, such as the tension between home and school life, which makes this book a worthwhile read." - Mark Mueller is the Education Librarian at Tyndale University College in Toronto, ON http://www.umanitoba.ca/outreach/cm/vol18/no21/schizo.html
Rated G - Good, even great at times, generally useful! The home life [of the main characters] is described in all its horrendous detail to make it real for the reader who may not have lived with mental illness. (Patricia Jermey Resource Links )
"Firmston is one of few authors who writes about schizophrenia from a teen’s point of view. The fear of not knowing is what underlies this story and is what makes this a page-turner. " (Sherry Rampey VOYA (U.S.) ) http://www.voya.com/2011/11/28/this-week-in-reviews-november-28-2011/
"I just finished reading Schizo and I really enjoyed reading it - Kim is a good writer and from my experience of teaching adolescents, I know they would love this book. It was an easy read and a page turner and very interesting! She did an excellent job of conveying what living with mental illness would be like. I know that students would really get interested in her book and I could see many of the reluctant readers (they are usually the boys) wanting to read this book. I believe she did an excellent job of conveying the up and down emotions and struggles.....with both of the boys. I did really enjoy reading it. Kim is to be congratulated!" - Pam Ball is a recently retired principal. She taught high school English for 3 years (grades 9,10 and 11) and before that, 17 years in junior high (Art and English).
Other stuff
This is a place for writers and people who love writing. If you're looking for conversation, creativity, free scripts of plays and skits for kids, or a glimpse into my projects you've come to the right place.
If you want to see me in person:
- Join the Reality Is Optional Kids' Writing club - click on the side menu for more info.
- Join the Theatre class. More info is on the Reality Is Optional Website. www.realityisoptional.com under News.
If you're a reader my short story Returning Home is available by purchasing an Alexandra Reader - just contact the AWCS to buy one. Only $10.00. Another short story, Life Before War, was published by in the Fall edition of FreeFall Magazine 2009. Check at the local library for a copy or contact FreeFall. If you're into novels: My first novel, Schizo, is published by Lorimer SideStreets. Order it by clicking HERE or contact me for a signed copy for $12.00 ($10.00 plus shipping).
If you're a fellow writer check out my blog on writing and the road to publication. Never an easy path.
If you're looking for a play or skit for your youth group you will find a few in Free Stuff. There are more scripts to come. If you see something you like go ahead and use it. All I ask is that you let me know and tell me how it goes. If you don't see anything you like but have an idea in mind, drop me a line and I can create something new.
If you are an agent or publisher, check out my history, bio and writing. All should interest you.
If you want to play check out the Cork Board and click away. It will take you to strange and interesting places.
If you are a Kid Writer in Calgary check out Reality Is Optional for contests, resources and club info.
If you want a more cyber experience: check me out on Facebook or at the Society of Children's Book Writers & Illustrators.
And if you're just here to poke around - feel free. Stay for as long as you like and visit often.
PS. If you're from my past and looking for the author of Wex, that's me too, Kim Wakeford. I just got married at one point.