Who Am I?

Hello. Welcome to my Blog. For those of you who are new to the Zeke Proper Fan Page, I thought that it would be appropriate to provide you with a little information as to who I am and the exciting adventure that lay ahead for you as a reader, and for me, the main character. So please, allow me to introduce myself:

My name is Zeke Proper, I am a fictional character created by Brad Cameron in a soon to be released Young Adult novel titled Zeke Proper and the Sacrifice at Alder Cove. The full length twenty chapter book is scheduled to be released sometime in mid to late June of 2010.

I, Zeke, consider myself to be a bold, curious young teenager. In the first of this three book series, I move with my small family to my father’s boyhood town. However, what I don't realize is that this tiny seaside settlement holds a deadly secret. An ancient curse has returned to the town of Alder Cove expecting payment for the prosperity it has enjoyed over the last 30 years. When I arrive in my new home, I soon discover that the deteriorating town has left hidden clues that I and my friends must locate in order to protect the town, the people, and most importantly, my family from further destruction and death.

With the help of prophetic dreams, ancient manuscripts and Runes, and my own cunning stealth, the battle with the curse becomes an unforgettable, climactic moment of good versus evil.

Zeke Proper and the Sacrifice at Alder Cove is Brad's first novel. For him it has been a labor of love that has been 3 years in the process. It is his attempt to add to his passion to teach English through studying and teaching the kind of books that connect with young readers. Zeke Proper and the Sacrifice at Alder Cove is one of those books.

So, join Brad and I on this exciting journey. The ride should be a blast. And please know that both Brad and I are extremely thankful for your support.

Please share the Blog site and the Fan Page. The more the merrier. Also, you can look forward to the 2nd book, Zeke Proper and the Serpent's Ship, an exciting continuation to my adventures.

Zeke, out.

I had an interesting experience yesterday as I attended the PSU writing conference. The conference is intended for elementary through high school future writers and includes workshops, guest speakers, etc. The main speaker for the day was Roland Smith, a well known and prolific Young Adult author. He's written Sasquatch, Zach's Lie, Thunder Cave, and many more. My real purpose in going to the conference was to watch Roland and observe his style as he mingled among the youth and gave his presentation. So, a couple of thing of note:

1. I was disappointed in what he wore. He dressed like a farmer who was headed out to pull weeds or milk the cow. A sweat shirt and a grubby pair of jeans just doesn't cut it as far as I'm concerned. Put on a jacket (a tie is not necessary). At least try to look somewhat professional. He was standing in front of three to four hundred kids. I think that is important. It makes an impression.

2. He needed to be more about the literature and less about Roland Smith. A little humility please.

3. He gave a very good presentation. Obviously one that he'd given many times before. It was full of colorful power point slides and some good ideas about what it takes to be a writer.

4. His ideas about the process of writing were great and I'm sure the kids got some good ideas, however, Roland Smith's way is not the only way. That point needed to be made more clearly.

Overall, though it was a good event. I was able to talk to the gentleman who organizes it and offered my services for next year. I'm hoping he takes me up on it.

Later, Brad

© 2010 Brad Cameron
All Rights Reserved.
No part of this publication may be reproduced, stored in a retrieval system,
or transmitted, in any form or by any means, electronic, mechanical,
photocopying, recording, or otherwise, without the written permission of
the author.
First published by Dog Ear Publishing
4010 W. 86th Street, Ste H
Indianapolis, IN 46268I

I know, it seems a little hokey, but there's not much else to show right now. This is an example of the copyright page. I just did a quick copy and paste. Hopefully when I get sent a copy of what the cover is going to look like then I can paste an example of that onto this blog. All indications are that that may happen very soon. Possible this week

Until then I will keep on writing. I'm just over 20,000 words in the sequel. That's about 100 pages. The story is getting good. It even surprises me when the story develops like it does.

Later, Brad

Keeping it updated...

I really had to add this one last illustration to make the collection complete. This is another one that Corey did to replace the one of the Captain arriving on his small fishing boat. It's a little scarier, but I think it conveys just how creepy that particular chapter is. Please note the weird eyes of Mr. Roberts and the tree behind him that appears to have arms reaching around him... ooooooooh! Scaary!

So far everything is up to date as far as the release of the book. I should be receiving a "Proof" within the next couple of weeks. When I get that I'll be able to see what the actual cover is going to look like as well as the inside page with all of the copyright information included. I'll also be able to see the first 100 pages or so, just to get an idea of what the layout is going to look like... very exciting.

All indications are that the book will be released in mid June, but if there are any changes I'll be sure to let everyone know.
I had a fairly successful spring break because I made a few very positive contacts with some bookstores in the Truckee, Lake Tahoe area. My hope is that I'll be able to do some book signings there is the summer. But again, I'll be sure to keep everyone updated.

So until then, keep reading.
Brad

Publishing at last!

I really wanted to add this latest illustration by Corey. He is so Amazing.

Last week the decision to publish with Dog Ear Publishing, a company out of Indianapolis, was made. I am very excited. I've been in contact with the publisher dude who has put me to work gathering and formatting my material. Today I finally sent in the files. I was waiting for Corey to put the finishing touches on two of the five illustrations that will be included in the book. He worked under a bit of pressure to get them done, but as you can see, he's done a great job. Corey's art work will also become the cover design.

What a team!

If all goes well the book will be out and ready for distribution sometime around June. I will keep you all updated on Website info., ordering info., and book signing info. So stay tuned.

Thanks for your support,
Brad

The Courage of the Captain

"Peter Roberts raised his hands into the air as if he were summoning the wind to blow and the sky to fall. His head lifted too and he began to shout as if the river and the fields were his congregation of devoted listeners. "For ye were sheep going astray; but are now returned unto the shepherd and bishop of your soul!"

Lowering his hands and arms, he smiled, his mouth turned up into a grin, but his eyes revealing nothing but scorn. "We've been waiting for you, Bartholomew," Roberts said calmly, his pale skin outlining the black, depthless eyes that mirrored a kind of pleasure in his taunt. " Yes, Bartholomew, we've been waiting a long time, almost thirty years now. It's good of you to finally show up."

Excerpt from Zeke Proper and the Sacrifice at Alder Cove.
Illustration by Corey Cameron

A Silouette at the Door

The light coming in from the top of the stairs was blocked by a large silhouetted figure. Its abrupt appearance loomed before them like a dark specter from some insane nightmare.

"You'll not be findin' anything in there that'll help ya'," the voice from the open door said. "If it's answers you're lookin' for, you've come to the wrong place."