Piper Reed Forever Friend - Book Review/Giveaway

We've had a great opportunity to review a book by Kimberly Willis Holt - it's the latest in her Piper Reed series called Forever Friend.
The Piper Reed series explores ten year old Piper's adventures with her family, their moves to new towns (her Dad is in the Navy), the friends she makes along the way and the lessons she learns. Her latest book focuses on their move to Norfolk, Virginia and Piper learns the importance of believing in yourself, spotting new opportunities and the benefits of individuality.

This book was well written and thoroughly enjoyable, we couldn't put it down and the girls were  eager to find out what happened next, so much so that they read the book in two days. They loved this book so much that the earlier five in the series are all on their wish lists for Christmas - though I probably won't be mean and make them wait that long : )

Not only did we get to enjoy this book but Rose and Sunflower were able to put together a couple of questions for Kimberly.

• What made you start writing?

When my second teacher read my story about a family of bunnies to the class, I felt proud.           I'd always loved reading and my mom always made me feel good about my writing. Then          in junior high I had some wonderful teachers (including a science teacher) who encouraged me to keep writing. But it wasn't until 18 years ago that I made a commitment to become a writer.

• How do you feel when you have written a book? 

It's a mixed bag of emotions. I question if it's good enough for the world to see. And I miss           the process of writing it.  So there is joy and sadness together, a bittersweet feeling. 

• Is it hard to finish writing about your characters – does it feel like a friend has left? 

Absolutely! But when I visit schools or libraries, I usually talk to audiences that have read         my books, and I get to visit my characters all over again.

• Why did you make Nicole allergic to chocolate? I am allergic to chocolate but I’ve never met anyone else that is. 

I'm sorry that you're allergic to chocolate. I've heard of people who are allergic and I put myself in their shoes. I wanted kids who had food allergies to have a character they could relate to.

• Did you get your inspiration for Sam and Tori from your own family? 

Yes, and Piper, too. Piper is inspired by my middle sister. My baby sister inspired Sam.          And yes, I admit it. I'm a lot like Tori. (Only I'm not so mean and bossy. At least I don't think so.)

• Will there be more Piper Reed books? 

I'm afraid the sixth one is probably going to be the last. But you never know! I'm certainly willing to keep telling stories about the Reed Family.

If you are looking for a fun read full of inspirational learning experiences I would suggest you check this series out. MacMillan also have some free downloadable lesson plans and activities available to go alongside the series.

As a special treat for you we are hosting a giveaway for three signed Piper Reed books - Piper Reed Forever Friend, Piper Reed Navy Brat and Piper Reed Rodeo Star.
Entry is simple - leave a comment below and like Kimberly Willis Holt on Facebook. Three winners will be drawn at random and sent one book each, if you have a preference for a specific title please leave a note in your comment below. 
The giveaway will close on Sept 14th 2012 and winners will be contacted by email - please ensure you leave a contact address.

Disclaimer - I was provided with a free copy of the book so I could provide an open and honest review.