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About J.J's Audition Adventure
- An Illustarted Book for K-3rd Grade -
- Join J.J. on His Next Adventure! -
In JJ's Audition Adventure, young readers join JJ, a spirited and imaginative young boy with a passion for putting on a show. When JJ sees his uncle Rolando on a commercial, he’s inspired to try acting himself. But what happens when he decides to take his talent to the next level and audition for a role of his own?
With the guidance of his supportive uncle, JJ learns the essential elements of making an audition tape—from perfecting his lines to setting up the ideal lighting and backdrop. Along the way, he discovers the true meaning of hard work and resilience, as well as the importance of bouncing back from disappointment. Join JJ on his quest to find his place on the stage and unlock the courage within.
Published by Berry Powell Press.
Meet the Characters!
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Meet JJ
He is a young Latino boy who loves playing soccer and hanging out with friends. He is protective of his little sister, although sometimes she can get on his nerves. He wants to be an actor like his uncle and will work hard to achieve his goal.
Meet Tio Rolando
He is JJ’s uncle and has been in the acting business for about 10 years. He has had some roles on major television shows and movies, as well as commercial and industrial work. He speaks Spanish and is Afro-Latino. He had a rough life but thanks to the support of his family has really made something of himself.
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Meet JJ's Mom
She is JJ’s mom. She resigned from a law firm to be a full-time stay-at-home mom. She loves her kids and will do anything to see them fulfill their potential. She is a textbook soccer mom who enjoys packing lunches and helping her kids with their schoolwork. She is older than Rolando by 2 years and has always looked out for him. They are very close even though they have different fathers.
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Meet Mimi
Mimi is JJ’s baby sister. She is curious and easily distracted. She is the one who isn’t paying attention to the joke but wants to know why everyone is laughing. She looks up to her big brother and always wants to be around him. She is a miniature version of her mom.
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Meet JJ's Dad
He is JJ’s father and supports his son because his wife told him to. Seriously though, he is a defender of his family and a great provider. He works as a freelance photographer and graphic designer, so he works from home and is able to provide backup when needed.
Meet the Author & Illustrator
- Javier Vázquez Jr. & Ekaterina Soyuznova -
Here's the dynamic duo! Javier Vázquez Jr. is a passionate children's author who writes books with his illustrator partner Ekaterina Soyuznova centered around introducing kids to the world of acting.
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Javier Vázquez Jr.
Born and raised in Buffalo, NY, Javier is the oldest of nine. He was the first in his family to graduate with a bachelor’s degree, B.S. Elementary Education with Concentration in Spanish. He pursued a career in education, working for The Buffalo Public Schools and the Gainesville City School system. Javier holds elementary, middle grades, and high school certifications in several states.
He moved to the Atlanta area and, in 2012, booked his first movie role in an independent production directed by Michael McClendon. After securing an agent, he landed roles on network television and major motion pictures such as Venom, starring Tom Hardy, and Clint Eastwood’s The Mule with Bradley Cooper and Michael Pena. He has had dozens of speaking roles on TV and film and countless appearances in commercials and print work. Javier is represented by Atlanta Models & Talent and continues building his resume in acting, writing, and production.
“Yup. That’s just part of being an actor. You often don’t get the part, even if you did a great job. It just means someone else was a better fit.”
Excerpt from JJ's Audition Adventure
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Ekaterina Soyuznova
Ekaterina Soyuznova is a Russian illustrator specializing in character design and storyboard creation. At seventeen, she ventured to the UK to get an illustration degree from UAL (University of the Arts London). From there, she set her sights on the US, where she found her true calling as a character and story artist while studying at SCAD (Savannah College of Art and Design).
From books to webcomics to film sets, she’s worked with companies such as Malka Media, THT, Catholic Stories, IBX, Ingenuity Studios, Creative Mammals, and more. In addition to her work on JJ’s Audition Adventure, she has an ongoing webcomic called Monster Pet. She currently lives in Moscow, where she loves reading comics and watching Doctor Who with her dog, Mira.
A Message from Javier
"Getting into the world of acting is both exciting and daunting, especially as a kid! Through JJ’s adventure, kids will get a peek into what it’s like to do an audition and learn new industry phrases like “casting director” or being “on set.” Most importantly, JJ’s adventure showcases the hard work and resilience required to be an actor, and that no matter how young, everyone has the power to follow their dreams."
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what people are saying
"I LOVE this fun, informative, entertaining, and accurate depiction of life as an actor. Javier has mapped out the passion and love we feel as artists and shared it in a way that anyone, including children, can understand and embrace. Bravo!"
Terri J. Vaughn, Actress, Director, Producer
“If you know a kid who thrives in the spotlight, this book is an absolute must! It's such an awesome, clever tool to help children develop their love for entertaining into a practical and potential lifelong career."
Jason Lockhart, Talent Agent, President of Atlanta Models & Talent
“JJ's Audition Adventure is like a treasure chest full of wisdom and wonder, perfect for any young dreamer aspiring to shine on stage or screen. With every turn of the page, you'll smile, tear up, and cheer as JJ bravely faces the ups and downs of understanding the world of auditioning and being an actor. It's a story that's as honest as it is entertaining, teaching valuable lessons about perseverance and determination along the way. ”
Regina Ting Chen, Actress
“This story is fantastic! You did an excellent job with the storyline, hopefulness, and excitement that is felt on every page. The illustrations are absolutely beautiful and engaging for kids. This is an excellent book for any classroom. It teaches kids the value of perseverance and hard work.”
Ana Hortman, Teacher of the Year, Gainesville City Schools
