Linda J. Hawkins
Bestselling & Award-Winning Author
Recent Awards
Linda's company, Heart to Heart Publishing, Inc. has been awarded Kentucky's Minority Women Business Enterprise certification!
In November, Linda was certified as an “International Commerce Specialists” by the World Trade Center Kentucky. She was a Fall 2016 graduate of its International Trade Certification Program.
Linda received a Kentucky Senate Citation honoring her “immeasurable contributions to Kentucky’s rich literary tradition, as well as to the health and well-being of her fellow citizens.” Read the whole story here.
"Linda was so gracious to travel to our museum to provide her knowledge, experiences, and entertainment with our guests. Our tea party was a huge success with our visitors. Each lady was absolutely immersed in Linda's program. I have already scheduled her to visit us again next year for a ladies tea and children's tea. We cannot wait till then!" -- Rebecca Pool, Curator, Adsmore Museum
“Linda, tonight's event was wonderful. People truly enjoyed it. You are a fabulous presenter. “--Ashley Fowlkes, Bob Kirby Library, Bowling Green, KY
“Linda was a true high-light at our ladies tea. She offered some amazing ideas and recipes to have for any occasion.” – Kim McGrew, Audubon State Park
"My wife and I were impressed first by your Southern Belle dress and the background and layout of your booth. Then we saw your books on Teas and we were hooked. We have been to many tea parties and high Teas -- we love them. We just came off a cruise where we went to a tea and scones every day and had a high tea on a plantation in Jamaica. My wife bought 2 of your books: Southern Seasons and The Unspoken Language of Fans & Flowers. She already had your Catering to Children. Your tea settings in the books are beautiful and the photographs made them "pop" off the pages. It makes us want try to have a tea party for friends. Thank You Linda", –Jim & Karen Davis
Frederica's New Home
“Another delightful children’s book by Linda J. Hawkins! Your child will see colorful pages full of valuable life lessons incorporating concepts and verses from God’s Word. This story will comfort young children who must move to a new place and find the blessings of new friendships.”-Jane Gough, B.S., M.S., Educator, Administrator, Counselor, Metro Nashville Schools (Retired)
A bright, fun and colorful book with a meaningful message! I look forward to reading it to my own grandchildren!-Misty Avery
Words Given
In Words Given, Linda J. Hawkins weaves stories from her own life that are filled with humanity, laughter and grace.--Susan J. Mitchell, award-winning author and photographer of Snapshots
“This book has been and intimate introduction into a life of a wonderful new friend and an amazing mentor. Linda’s stories not only gave me a greater insight into the trials and triumphs of her life, but a greater appreciation for the world around me and the wonder of God’s works in everyday life. --Eli Johansen, Business-Executive
A personal, moving and transparent story of growth. Growth as a child in times much simpler than today, growth of a young lady into adulthood and motherhood, growth in a woman’s relationship with God. Growth from a newborn baby in Christ into a mature saint of the most high, a saint that has grown to walk in true faith of God’s unlimited power and ability. --Mark Acord, author of With Him It Is Possible
Sister Hawkins did an outstanding job of conveying her life memories and experiences… a very good read. You could feel that each story was written from her heart. In reading it, I revisited my own memory bank. It took me back to similar experiences. I thoroughly enjoyed reading it. --Sister Deana Uzzle, NPC, First Lady
"Linda Hawkins new book, WORDS GIVEN, is a heartwarming collection of wonderful stories. The author tells stories brilliantly, describing the details vividly, so the reader feels they are an actual observer. She is indeed a master storyteller. She shares stories of people throughout her life, starting with her own childhood, who all helped her in her journey of drawing closer to God. Even the people who were not positive influences in her life helped her in her growth. Her experiences and observations of life situations are identifiable to readers. As I read, her stories stirred up my childhood memories and the people who blessed my own life. Linda Hawkins' love for life and people are a testimony of what our lives can become if we put God first. She shares what amazing things can happen if we choose to listen to God's Spirit when it tells us something instead of ignoring His will. Even in her darkest times, the Lord was with her...as He is with all of us who seek him. --Jean Forsythe, author of The Rainbow in Every Storm (and three other published books.)"
Such an enjoyable read. The writer takes you along as she travels through life, so many wonderful stories. I just want to set down and read another one! -- Patricia A. Fox, Homemaker, Caregiver
Linda J. Hawkins’ collection of delightful short stories has given the reader a pleasurable glimpse down memory lane. From her first memories to those she experienced as an adult, …a Kentucky family filled with faith, love and a determination to succeed in life and help others…. dealing with near tragedies and loss show how a family copes, with faith and love for each other as their only weapons. The fears of a mother are accepted and dealt with and the scared beliefs of childhood are protected. …memories of life as a child in the 1950’s and 1960’s and beyond in southern Kentucky. -- D. G. Freeman, teacher
Linda J. Hawkins’ life experiences growing up and living in rural Kentucky parallel so many of my own in a nearby county where I spent my childhood. I’ve actually wondered if her family might actually be kinfolks, as she is a Hawkins, the maiden name of my mother and many of my Kentucky ancestors. Her description of her life is uncannily akin to mine; we have laughed and wept over many of the same things! The interwoven quotations in her books are some of my own favorite quotations. I believe you will enjoy reading this book; for me it was a spiritual retreat for the mind and heart.
--Louella Hawkins-Webster, TN Senior Christian leader
This book brings wonderful memories while reading some of these stories and others made me understood just how blessed I was to be a part of this loving family. It was great to read about some of my family long gone by the time I was born. The stories of my sweet mother made me smile and warmed my heart. The story about how God spared my life when I almost drowned in the Gulf of Mexico is so hard to read without tears flooding my eyes. Thanks so much to my sister for putting this collection of stories into a book. It is a memoir worth exploring. -- William Patrick Gill, author’s surprise brother
I feel inspired, as though I’ve been blessed to have been on a wonderful weekend RETREAT with a Sister in the Lord! When I read your writings, I feel as though you are a part of my own SOUL! You are creative, always acknowledging our Great Creator… You are in love with your Kentucky home … You are a “Heart Sister” indeed, living abundantly in this world, but ever Heaven-focused, as you center your life on your beloved husband and extended family, which includes your relatives and your readership. Thank you for becoming a part of my life through your wonderful books… --Linda Jane Gough, B.S, M.S., M.S. Ed., Educator, Administrator, Counselor, Metro Nashville Schools (Retired)
“Words Give” ...fortunate to be able to know you as I travel your life’s journey through your talented pen. --Ken Byrd, Auctioneer
Linda’s stories always make me think of Rick Bragg, life written from her view with and her own special touch.--Businessman, Jason Hines
I thoroughly enjoyed reading this book. It was truly hard to put down! It would be hard to pinpoint a favorite. There were many! If someone were to ask me what it was about, I would say, and already have, that it’s about memories growing up, memories of her boys growing up years and even some recent ones. It’s really how life is- some hilarious moments and some heartbreaking moments too! Love you, Sis. Hawkins! This is my favorite book so far! --Misty Avery, Realtor
Couldn’t put it down! Your book of memories is a delight! ... The strong hand of Jesus has certainly helped you write every word. Thank you, for sharing your life… What a gift! Keep writing.--Mary Alice Black, Retired Music Teacher
Southern Seasons 12 Months of Tea-licious Recipes & Ideas
"The pictures are beautiful and the recipes are presented well…'very southern' and 'scrapbook style'…the photos are lovely…
…there is a lot of inspiration and information about tea-drinking that I found fascinating…mouth-watering recipes…
Nice selection of photos and ideas…Intimate look into the creator/authors love of tea!"--Independent Book Publisher Association (IBPA) Judges' comments
“…what an absolutely beautiful book…”--Paula Richardson, Accountant, United Pentecostal Church International
“I looked at your books and enjoyed reading them …best part was putting God first … He gave me the vision for my business.”--Kelly Howland, owner, Tea Time, A British Touch
"To classify this book as a cookbook is just not enough. Yes, it certainly fits into said category by offering recipes that you will most definitely want to create in your own kitchen, but author Linda J. Hawkins has gone far beyond that. For anyone with one of those awesome grandmothers who made those cookies you were salivating over all week long, knowing you were headed to the grandparents’ house for Sunday dinner to enjoy them while spending time with the family you loved (Miss you, Grandma!), this one is most definitely for you.
Aptly fitting the description the author gives in her introduction, this book is full of “Tea-riffic” information! First, we begin with the photographs. This book offers up some of the most stunning pictures imaginable. Cutting the book into seasons, then by month within each season, pictures appear spotlighting everything from a landscape glistening with a blanket of snow to a spring garden filled with the newest flowers just beginning to bloom – waking up in order to give the world a fresh, new look under the much warmer sunshine. Then, you have the words. This is not only a group of recipes with directions and ingredients, but also pages of quotes from poets, inspirational words from the Bible, and kind, fun, peaceful short stories shared with readers about the tea parties that went from events to yearly family traditions in the Hawkins’ household.
The author lets readers in on facts about the enjoyment of tea served with glorious foods, and even shares a list of various signature tea parties that can be held to include friends, families, children, and more. The list talks about everything from a “Little Ones First Tea” event to a “Seashore Tea” that can be held while looking out upon the awesome beauty of Mother Nature’s waves.
Not only are the teas spoken about delicious, but the appetizers – from candy to dips – and the main courses that range from Roasted Maple Glazed Tenderloin to Almond Crusted Chicken with Strawberry Balsamic Sauce, are also provided with easy to follow recipes to make sure the meal you feast upon at your “tea party” is truly unforgettable. Some are even extremely unique, like Delightful Divinity which is served at your “Friendship Tea” to celebrate those close pals who play a large, caring part in your life. Add into all this an Etiquette page, and a slew of extra gifts from the author that show you some of the amazing places she has traveled, and you most definitely have a stellar, high-level guide that shows you how to live an enjoyable life.
Quill says: This is truly a “must-have” for the household, enabling everyone to create tea-riffic family traditions."–Amy Lignor, Feathered Quill Book Reviews
"Beautifully and profusely illustrated throughout, Southern Seasons: 12 Months of Tea-licious Recipes & Ideas showcases the significance, etiquette, elegance, diversity, and celebratory uses of tea in authentic American culture. From traditional tea parties, to fire side sipping on a winter's eve, to weddings and birthday celebrations. The recipes range from Hawaiian Caprese Sliders; Mini Stuffed Tomatoes; Blackberry-Peach Dumpling Soup; and Party Cheese Ball; to Turkey and Ham Roll-Ups; Orange Dreamsicle Fudge; Lemon Blueberry Pound Cake; and Stuffed Strawberries. Organized and presented seasonally, Southern Seasons: 12 Months of Tea-licious Recipes & Ideas is replete with interesting information and tips, making it fascinating to browse through and inspiring to plan party events with -- making it unreservedly and enthusiastically recommended for personal, professional, and community library cookbook collections."–Wisconsin Bookwatch
"Tea is good just about any time and anywhere. Tea time is not just an afternoon tea event, like the English started in the 1700s to ward off the hunger pangs that hit part way through the long afternoon. There are many types of teas, many ways to serve tea, and many things that go very nicely with a good cup of tea. Tea time can be at all times a 'tea-licious' treat, one that is best shared with friends or family or both. And why not dress up for tea? If the setting and the servings are elegant, then so should be the host or hostess – as well as the guests.
Linda J. Hawkins is an avid tea lover. Her recent book, Southern Seasons: 12 Months of Tea-licious Recipes and Ideas, is a treasure in itself. Sectioned into the four seasons of the year, the author presents recipes, décor, dress ideas and lots of tips on how to prepare and present a good pot of tea. The illustrations make this book more than just a mouth-watering treat. The author immerses the reader in the entire concept of teas and tea time for every time of the year and every season. She lists the reasons to host a tea party, but there are many more. She lists the do’s and do not’s of proper tea etiquette. Her illustrations detail elegant tea settings and delightful tea party wardrobes, because, as the author explains, 'Dressing up brings the little girl out in all of us, never too old for dressing up. It’s fun and refreshing for the young and the older.' Fun and refreshing – that’s what makes tea time a treat and this book certainly exemplifies that." –Emily-Jane Hills Orford, Readers' Favorite.
"I enjoyed meeting you! And I love your tea party books. Mom and I loved teas, teapots, tea books, tea parties and my granddaughter and I used to have 'teas' at Mama’s before she started school. We had tea at my house and our male chocolate lab (we had at that time) had pearls and a hat too. Mom passed away May 2016 and it brought back a lot of memories...good memories." –Debbie Stofer, Author
What a surprise to see Martha Stewart’s table cloth and napkins used on the cover of Linda’s Southern Seasons book, and what great memories it brought back…a visit to her Turkey Hill kitchen studio resulted in a fundraiser dinner program for The Garden Club of Kentucky for 900 participants.
What an evening it was. How delightful … after the program Linda would bid on the blue rose table set that Martha gave the garden club and then feature it in/on her latest book. The setting is perfect as is the table setting. It could not have been lovelier if done by Martha herself. I think that she would love it as much as I do. –Carolyn Roof, KY Garden Club Writer
“I had the distinct pleasure of meeting the author, Linda, when she visited the Charleston Tea Plantation. Her charming character shows through in this elegant new book, a marvelously enlightening tribute to tea and a must read for every tea enthusiast!” –William Barclay Hall, Charleston Tea Plantation, S.C.
Linda has revived a lost art form and social ceremony in this book! The charm and creativity unfold page by page as you are inspired by beautiful images and southern comforts for the mind, body and soul. This is SOCIAL NETWORKING, southern style! –Chris Cathers, Program Branch Manager, Kentucky Arts Council
Once again, Linda J. Hawkins serves up a “tea-lightful” collection of recipes, captivating photography, and comforting words of wisdom for an entire year of entertaining possibilities. Her devotion to faith, family, and friends is evident in her words as well as in the care she takes to help readers create welcoming and delectable memories centered around a relaxing cup of tea. –Penny Woods, Kentucky Living Magazine
Linda J. Hawkins has created more than a cookbook or a book about tea. This is a testament to the power of faith and family complete with photographs that bring to life each special occasion. Savor this book as you would an old friend, coming back again and again for ideas and inspiration on living the good life one sip at a time. –Editor Mary Nestor, Home & Lifestyle Magazine
“The exceptional layout of four seasons celebrating tea all twelve months is as refreshing as a cuppa that tasty, amber liquid so treasured.” –Editor Jan Roberts, Yellow Roses Magazine
“Gorgeous photos, elegant & simple settings, remarkable tips & advice, with beautiful, tasty foods to please the palate.” –Jane Knight, Office Manager, Charleston Tea Plantation, S.C.
Southern Seasons with Memory Making Recipes
Logan County Public Library was excited to have, as our special guest, author Linda J. Hawkins. Linda gave a wonderful presentation of her latest cookbook "Southern Seasons" with delicious and quick recipes, which the attendees were able to sample. She also brought along a couple of her wonderful homemade pies for us to enjoy. Linda puts everyone at ease with her contagious smile and wonderful personality. She reminds us too that every day is special and to enjoy your family and friends. Everyone attending the presentation enjoyed it very much. Thank you Linda for such a great program. –Logan County, KY Public Lib. Tracy Houchens
Linda J. Hawkins' beautiful photography and generations of recipes make "Southern Seasons" a family treasure! Every Southern mama will enjoy the storytelling, meal planning, creative ideas, and wealth of wisdom from the Hawkins family to your family--a must-read for mothers and daughters!–Nicki Bishop, homeschooling mother of 4
Southern Seasons with Memory Making Recipes
From cover to cover, it awakens all the senses,
Taste buds dance to delightful dishes,
The four seasons are filled with recipes that entice,
The four food groups take on a new life.
Ingredients all nestled in dishes of days gone by,
Images and stories capturing moments in time,
This cookbook from the heart tantalizes the southern palate,
The author is a cup that runneth over with talent.–Poem written by: Mary Johnson Howard
Southern Seasons with Memory Making Recipes is a beautifully and profusely illustrated, 182 page culinary compendium of simply wonderful recipes, succinct commentaries, and memorably apt quotations. A pleasure to simply browse through, inspiring to plan menus with, and filled from cover to cover with palate pleasing, appetite satisfying, kitchen cook friendly recipes for dishes ranging from Raspberry Butter; Picnic Fruity Slaw; Fried Cornbread; and Blueberry Spinach Salad; to Pineapple Upside Down Cake; Simple Broccoli Casserole; Southern Ice Tea; Chicken Enchilada Bake, Southern Seasons with Memory Making Recipes will make an enduringly popular and highly recommended addition to personal, family, and community cookbook collections. –James A. Cox, Editor-in-Chief, The Midwest Book Review
Southern Seasons is awesome. It brought back so many childhood memories. The pictures were awesome, too. –Trudy Jones, TN
“The recipes are wonderful and the writings delightful. God Bless” –Cindy Betts
With feet up from long day I have been truly enjoying the pictures, quotes and personal comments like the biscuits in iron skillet and the punch recipe – (Southern Seasons) wonderful all the way thru! –Donna Finch Slaton, Retired Librarian and Storyteller
I’ve never read a cookbook and studied it from cover to cover. Yet, with Southern Seasons, I did! As we downsize for retirement it has helped me to know what I must hold onto. –Linda Wood, Wife, Mom & Grandmother
Southern Seasons…A perfect book for a wedding couple! –Peggy Drake, Co-Owner, Drakes Farm Service
I have very much enjoyed your new book, Southern Seasons. I love your recipes. I love your pictures. But most of all, I love your words. A lovely book! –Annetta Cole, Retired Business Owner
After Fans and Flowers and the delightful how to book in hosting Tea for Children it was a no brainier to add Southern Seasons to my collection! Linda's work is full of heart that never fails to bless me over and over! –Terri Smith, Author
I purchased Linda Hawkins’ cookbook last week for my wife. She loves the cookbook with all side stories and illustrations. The recipes are very tasty and we have already made two of them. It is very well done and would recommend it to everyone. –Kirk Weber, Corvac Composites LLC
This cookbook is as interesting as a story book, beautiful as art and tasteful as every great comfort food I have ever eaten. –Susan J. Mitchell, Writer, Photographer
"To call Linda J. Hawkins' Southern Seasons a cookbook is selling it short. It is a cookbook, but it is so much more. It is an inspirational and uplifting guide to daily life—in and out of the kitchen." – Stephen M. Vest, Editor and Publisher of Kentucky Monthly.
“Wow! Beautifully illustrated, inspirational quotes, family musings and simple to follow recipes with simple ingredients makes me want to drop everything and spend the rest of the day cooking (and canning) with this wonderful, flavorful cookbook.” – Rosemarie Costin, Food Scientist, Stockton, California
Southern Seasons with Memory Making Recipes is a breath of fresh air and perfect for anyone who shares a love for food, family, and fellowship. The book is wonderfully written and draws you in instantly with its heartwarming stories, laughs, and countless delicious & nutritious recipes… sure to please the whole family. –Jessica Grubb Castile, RD, LD
Southern Seasons with Memory Making Recipes is an exceptional classy and unique cook/look book, and much more. As always, Linda Hawkins does everything first class! –Author Dianna Ellis, Beaumont, TX
The perfect gift, Linda J. Hawkins’ new Southern Seasons with Memory Making Recipes wears many hats-- a cookbook with easy recipes for tasty seasonal dishes; a coffee table book illustrated with her beautiful country photographs; a book of practical hints for preparing, and serving meals for a few or many; Linda's whimsical philosophy about seasons, food, friends, children; and much much more. A treasury of reading. –Evelyn M. Byers, Retired librarian
This cookbook feeds ALL my senses. Linda's creativity and deep devotion to family and God are woven throughout this stunning "more than a cookbook". Can't wait to try every single recipe. –Karen Hughes, Cater, Lumberton, Texas
Mrs. Hawkins has fine-tuned past and present memories that pique your interest. The stories, many photos and recipes are all a true visit to yesteryear. –Barbara Napier, author of Hot Food & Warm Memories, the Snug Hollow Farm Cookbook
The author of Southern Seasons, with Memory Making Recipes, Linda J. Hawkins taught a nine week class for our after-school program. Not only did the children love helping make the recipes but enjoyed tasting. Linda taught the children many valuable lessons from her book...–Pam Pendley, Community Education Director, Butler County Schools.
”It’s a totally feel good book. This is the new way I'll prepare food from now on—love flows throughout!” – Ellen Everman, Author of Pink Dice
Morgantown author Linda Hawkins urges folks to change back to simpler times in her latest cookbook. Sectioned off into the four seasons with content pertaining to that season, several of the book’s recipes are centered around family fun and memory-making. Each brightly colored page will entice the reader to slow down and enjoy some ‘soul’ food, some family time, and to swap a story or two. –Penny Woods, Kentucky Living magazine book reviewer
Everyone may have a memory of that special “recipe” that you carry in your memory that your grandmother or mom fixed. … That one special recipe no one else can compare to. That’s just what Southern Seasons has… my Grandma Mary’s fluffy and tasty biscuits. I am so glad my Aunt Linda shared this recipe. –Amanda Hatcher, Aspiring cook and author’s niece
I have a lot of cookbooks but Southern Seasons is by for my favorite. It’s so much more than a cookbook. –Wendy Flener, Wife, mom and homemaker
Love the book! – Christine Coleman
I enjoyed every page of (Southern Seasons), every picture, recipes and the memories you shared really connected with me. –Deanna Uzzle
Southern Seasons…was a blessing to read, from childhood memories …or of your children and grandchildren. It made me want to gather my family together around the table and layout a spread for them to enjoy. Thank You, for making me realize how special a mealtime can be no matter how big or small.–Teresa Holland, KY, RN
Alexander Endorsements
“Alexander is back!...Kentucky duo Linda J. Hawkins and Donna Eaves have teamed up again to bring youngsters a fun and informative book about the joys of eating healthy food and following a fit lifestyle. With colorful, cheerful pictures and a narrative that is a bit science and a bit adventure, the book is certain to engage and entertain kids...parents will enjoy the surprising amount of nutrition information, including a glossary, a food pyramid and even a berry slushy recipe. It's all designed to get children-and their parents-thinking about making nutritious food choices and taking a step toward a healthier lifestyle. It's a delicious combination." –K. Melissa Burton, Kentucky Monthly
"I read carefully your book… I found not only interesting but useful to inform our children … I gave it to a granddaughter of eight years old to "practice her English" and to bring it to her school (an important bilingual one) to share it with teachers and pupils.” –Horacio A. Irigoyen, Economist, CPA, PHD en Administration, Director of a Research Institute of Small Business Argentina
“Alexander and the Great Food Fight and the companion book Alexander and the Great Vegetable Feud are great stories to teach elementary students about nutrition and food systems. I have used this book to teach grades K-3. For K-1 grades, you can read the stories to students in literacy time and do guided reading. So many skills can be incorporated in addition to the nutrition knowledge and food history that the books convey. For grades 2-3, students can take turns reading aloud from the books as well as use the information at the back part of each book to do research on food and present to their peers, or to include in a paper or book report. Also, the teachers to whom we've given these two books, along with the enrichment activities, love them! I get reports for the last two years about how much use they get from them. The enrichment activities have something appropriate for each grade group, including grades 4 and 5. For the 4-5th graders, they can read the story for context to put on a short play. The charting and crossword activities area relevant to grades 3-5 depending on where students are with reading level and vocabulary. Additionally the enrichment book contains a number of structured lessons/activities to use across elementary schools grades. I am very excited that Heart to Heart publishing has come out with a new book in this series, Alexander and the Great Berry Patch!"–Toby Martinez
“I work for our county’s office of education teaching nutrition to children and we LOVE the ‘Alexander’ books and use them frequently in the classroom. Thank you so much, I really appreciate your help!”–Allyson Hill, Shasta County Office of Education, Project Coordinator- Nutrition Services, Redding, CA
"Recently Ms. Hawkins was a guest author/speaker at our Logan County Public Library. We could not have been more pleased! She made the book very understandable for our youngest patrons and gave and added enhancement to the character interaction for our older readers. The costumes were also a special bonus - the children loved them. Ms. Hawkins has an excellent speaking voice for her presentation and excellent eye contact. She made the audience feel a part of the story. An added attraction was the service she provided to our parents who needed information on how to get published and where to start. There was a very positive response from our audience and we would be pleased to have her back again." –Monica Edwards, Youth Services, Logan County Public Library
"Linda's presentation of Alexander and the Great Food Fight was perfect. She had wonderful costumes of the characters from the book which some of our children wore and acted out the story as Linda read the book. The children not only heard a wonderful story but learned many facts about good nutrition. We added a copy to our Library and there is a list of children waiting to check-out." –Judy Chesnut, Media Specialist, Deer Park Elementary
"Absolutely Love it! Author, Linda J. Hawkins has once again captured the attention of young readers and presented healthy concepts that are so needed!...can't wait to get Alexander and the Great Berry Patch in our school!" –Rena Buss, Physical Educator, LeMars, IA, Author, Be Safe, Be Fit
"Alexander and the Great Berry Patch is a captivating book that provides critical nutritional information for our children when they are eager to learn. It skillfully imparts basic knowledge to address obesity and health issues at an early age before these become serious problems. Linda and her family operate a half acre blueberry planting, so she knows and appreciates the intricacies involved in berry production from planting through harvest."–Dr. John Strang, Extension Professor of Horticulture, University of Kentucky
"In her newest title, Linda J. Hawkins has captured the valuable message-communicated in a fun colorful way, so much good information throughout the book...highly recommended for families as well as classroom use..."–Grace Soeter, Foundation for Healthy Families International, Los Angeles
"Yet another exciting Alexander book, packed with valuable nutritional information for the entire family!"–Ena Sabih, author of "Did You Eat Your Vitamins Today?", Ontario
"Alexander and the Great Berry Patch...provides an informative, brightly illustrated view of nutritionally correct food choices..."–Dr. Kevin Z. Dawson, DDS, Littleton, CO
"Awesome informative book!-great tool to teach kids about the important fruits and antioxidants that are helpful to our bodies. The best part-honeybees help the berries grow!"–Kelsey D. Salmon, 2010 Indiana Honey Queen
"Informative-so colorful with all the berries-this book is a motivator-in fact, I am going to go eat some blueberries and yogurt right now!"–Barbara Popyach, Author
"This is exactly what every parent wants to find in a book. Children can really get a good grasp on nutrition while at the same time be totally entertained by the lovable food characters. . . . This book transcends all language barriers because it deals with one of life's fundamentals - nutrition."–Carmen Van Balen Lancho, Assistant Director, International Trade Division, KY Cabinet for Economic Development
"Expository Author, Linda J. Hawkins has dedicated her life, helping families to be healthier and happier. Linda's mother & grandmother had serious complications from diabetes, when Linda also was diagnosed she asked, "What can I do to maintain quality of life?" Through education & research she excerpts tremendous energy to tackle the challenges of teaching our children good nutritional habits. She has found this key to be effective. I commend her for her many efforts."–Dawn S. Fraze RN, BSN, CDE, Certified Diabetic Educator
"The potential health benefits of heart-healthy eating patterns started at young ages are tremendous! Linda J. Hawkins has an intriguing way to communicate better food choices for children."–Becky Woods LPT, CRS, Cardiac Rehab, St. Luke's Hospital, MD
"The State of Kentucky's educational field is always looking for quality materials to help in all aspects of learning. We are pleased to inform you that your nutritional books: Alexander and the Great Food Fight, Alexander and the Great Vegetable Feud, and Alexander Enjoys his Fruits and Vegetables are superb teaching tools. These books are now being used throughout the state."–Pam Merrick, Adminstrative Specialist III, Nutrition and Health Services
"I would recommend this book because of the good decision making it conveys... The colorful characters are something children will enjoy as they learn."–Hsin Chang, M.D., Pediatrics Unit, Huntington Beach, CA
"I think this book would be useful in health/nutrition programs in the primary grades... with a good hands on activity."–Marianne Bates, teacher & librarian, Sandy, Utah
"This book is excellent for parents and children who want to make healthful choices."
"Seeing cardiac diseases daily and knowing that eating habits, good or bad, develop early in life, but become apparent only in later years. We realize prevention is imperative! A great start for children is healthy eating."
"...A fun story, for an impressionable age with excellent reference charts."
"The information in this book is needed as children start developing good habits."–Don Johnson, Cardiac Nurse Liaison, The Heart Institute, Bowling Green
“Vivid with lots of information on healthy foods for children. Info presented is great."–Judges comment from 2012 Benjamin Franklin Awards™
Midwest Book Review, Oregon, WI, had this to say about, Alexander and the Great Berry Patch,”…this excellent book for steering children towards a healthy snack that is far better for them than candy!”
The University of Wisconsin has reviewed your book Alexander and the Great Berry Patch and made it available to schools and libraries throughout Wisconsin. Additionally we will archive your title for the next five years. —James A. Cox, Editor-in-Chief
Gift Book Endorsements
"Catering to Children, is a beautiful guide to education and entertaining children about tea. It is succinct, yet each picture is worth a thousand words."–Pearl Dexter, Editor of TEA: A Magazine
"Linda Hawkins has created a treasure trove of gentle images and instructions for entertaining young ladies and gentlemen. This book is filled with creative ideas, etiquette tips, and delicious recipes that are perfect for developing social skills. Catering to Children should be found in the personal library of anyone who works with children. The photographs alone are a feast for the eyes!"–Bruce Richardson, Author, Tea Expert for Elmwood Inn Fine Teas
"This is a beautiful book that inspires and restores. It produces a calming effect on the reader, so gorgeous are the pictures and the layout. The text harkens back to a bygone era - an era the author encourages you to drag into the present."–Comments of Judge, Publishers Marketing Association (PMA)
"Some of the greatest excitement this year at Adairville school was brought on by the formal tea parties given for the 2nd-5th grade girls. The library was decked with delicate table cloths, porcelain dolls, and flowers. The girls wore their best, brought their baby dolls, and were treated to a buffet table featuring petite sandwiches, cookies, and a variety of teas. In Victorian dress, Linda Hawkins, the author of Catering to Children, shared with the girls tea history, how to host a tea party, and proper etiquette. Days later the teachers and students are still talking about what a great time they had."–Carla Abbott, Librarian, Auburn Elementary
“Linda’s enthusiasm for life is evident in the lovely books she has authored. Her books inspire, encourage, and touch warmly in the reader those special qualities that make life beautiful. She shares with us many wonderful recipes and ideas for very special teas and parties. These gatherings promote the health of the human spirit of all ages. Her books are a delightful asset to my Tea Room”. –Jane Voigt, Owner, Ambrosia Tea Room, Salado, Texas.
Who Gives a Hoot Endorsements
“We have our great-granddaughter, Scarlet Jordan Gray, visiting with us for a week. We have your book, Who Gives a Hoot? At her request, we have read it to her five times! She has only been here two days. We are sure she will request it more before the week is over.”–Janet and A Y Hodge, Author of Sniffipiticus
In the Media! Click on each photo to see the magazines Linda J. Hawkins has been published in!
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