Blog Archives
Respecting Differences
Maxzyne Goes Aquamarine follows a young girl attending a CPR training who discovers a myriad of mystical underwater creatures battling to save their environment. What was the inspiration for the setup of your story?
I love to read the newspapers each morning – one local and one international. I came across the story of an ongoing battle between an international water bottling company’s use of a beautiful water spring for its product. The water use was being contested by the local government and environment-protectors.
I find the world you created in this novel brimming with possibilities. Where did the inspiration for the setting come from, and how did it change as you were writing?
My favorite part of world and story building is the research. I live in Florida, a water state, and in this book I wanted to showcase that particular environmental feature in Maxzyne’s third adventure. An underwater mission in a mythical world of ancient nixies, naiads and double-crossing fire salamanders was too much fun to imagine and write.
What were some themes that were important for you to explore in this book?
Getting along with others is always a theme that resonates with me. Maxzyne has to learn to work with Oliver, a nerdy and overbearing partner in this underwater adventure. It’s quickly apparent that egos only get in the way. Thankfully, by the end, both characters admire and respect their differences, finding ways to cooperate and help save the sacred springs from destruction. Respect for the environment is also prominently featured in this book. I walk the beach every day and hate to see the litter left behind by daily visitors. Plastic, in the form of water bottles, is an unfortunate invention that must be swept into the dustbin of history before it chokes all earth’s tributaries, seas, and creatures.
Can fans look forward to more adventures from Maxzyne in the near future?
Absolutely! She’s hard to keep up with, but I think she just may have a jaunt in space soon…
Author Links: Website | Book Review
Will Sereia, the vain water hag in cahoots with greedy Westbrook water-bottling company, prevail in her evil plan?
Maxzyne must work with an overbearing Eagle Scout classmate, Oliver, in a battle that tests the wits and will of two very unlikely partners. Can they survive each other and this dangerous aquamarine sphere that needs their help to exist?
Paradise Undone: A Novel of Jonestown
In Paradise Undone, Annie Dawid takes readers on a haunting journey back to the 1950s, where Marceline, the daughter of a pastor, encounters a man who seems to embody all the characteristics she values. Charismatic, godly, and fiercely intelligent, Jim Jones attracts people like a flame in the darkness. However, the world would soon know his name for reasons far darker than Marceline could have ever imagined. The creation of Jonestown and the horrific massacre that ensued became global news, but no documentary could fully capture the human tragedy of what happened there. This novel does, and it does so with unflinching honesty.
Paradise Undone serves almost as a companion piece to the recent TV miniseries Cult Massacre: One Day in Jonestown. While the series provides archival footage and survivor interviews, Dawid’s novel delves deeper into the events that transpired in the Guyanese jungle and the years that led up to it. The Jonestown tragedy can be explored on many levels, each more disturbing than the last. It wasn’t just the loss of life that was so horrifying, but also the manipulation and perversion of the very idea of paradise on Earth that Jones preached. This novel focuses intensely on that perversion. Dawid’s vivid descriptions evoke a visceral reaction as we witness the transformation of Jones from a seemingly benevolent leader to a figure of pure malevolence, like the devil himself given human form. From the outset, Dawid expertly reveals the cracks in Jones’ Eden. As the story unfolds, readers become as captive as the residents of Jonestown, drawn into a web of tension that escalates to a fever pitch. Even for those familiar with the outcome, the inevitability of the violent crescendo does nothing to lessen its devastating impact. This is a harrowing tale, and Dawid leads us through it with the precision and skill of a seasoned storyteller, ensuring that every moment is as gripping as it is heartbreaking.
Paradise Undone is a powerful and deeply unsettling exploration of one of the most tragic events in modern history. Annie Dawid’s masterful storytelling brings the human aspect of the Jonestown massacre into sharp focus, revealing the psychological manipulation and the dark descent of a man who led so many to their doom. This novel not only provides a chilling reminder of the dangers of blind devotion but also serves as a poignant testament to the lives lost.
Pages: 304 | ASIN : B0CKHSZX7X
For the Love of God: A Tapestry of History and Heritage in Los Altos de Jalisco, Mexico
For the Love of God: A Tapestry of History and Heritage in Los Altos de Jalisco, Mexico, plunges into the heart of Los Altos de Jalisco, Mexico, weaving history with the threads of personal memory. Liborio Gutierrez Martín del Campo, alongside his son, Jose Gutierrez Gonzalez, crafts a rich narrative that honors the region’s heritage while tracing the lineage of its people. Readers are drawn into a world where the past pulses with life, each page steeped in the traditions and struggles that have shaped this highland area. Nostalgia and reverence permeate the work, offering a window into history through the intimate lens of family pride.
The book’s intimate tone immediately captures attention. The authors convey a deep affection for their homeland, transforming the narrative into something both personal and sweeping. The region’s history, spanning from the Spanish conquest to contemporary times, intertwines with tales from the Gutierrez family’s own journey, bringing the past into sharp, vivid focus. Though dense at times, particularly when unraveling complex historical events, the detail enriches the story for those with a keen interest in Jalisco’s rich past. Dual authorship shapes the book’s structure, creating a unique rhythm in the narrative. The transition between Liborio’s original writings and Jose’s contributions flows smoothly for the most part, though the shift in voices occasionally disrupts the story’s momentum. Jose’s prologue, filled with poignant reflections, sets the stage, explaining how the book came to be and the challenges encountered during its completion. This blend of voices adds a layer of depth, making the book not only a historical recounting but also a testament to the act of preserving history itself. Anecdotes and legends peppered throughout the pages infuse the narrative with cultural depth and mystique. Stories such as the legend of Tlaloc or the mysterious occurrences at Cerro Gordo add a mythic dimension, merging folklore with historical fact. These tales do more than entertain; they shed light on the values and beliefs that have shaped the identity of Los Altos de Jalisco.
For the Love of God: A Tapestry of History and Heritage in Los Altos de Jalisco, Mexico, stands as a loving homage to Los Altos de Jalisco, crafted with both precision and passion. While those with a personal connection to the region or a deep interest in Mexican history might find it most appealing, the emotional resonance and storytelling make it a compelling read for anyone intrigued by the interplay of history, culture, and personal identity.
Pages: 318 | ASIN : B0D39LP22L
The Songbird and The Sunshine
The Songbird and the Sunshine is a sweet and heartwarming tale that captures the strength of family ties against the backdrop of dementia’s bittersweet reality. Amy, a young girl with a voice as radiant as a songbird’s melody, shares an unbreakable bond with her grandma, who is the light of her life. As dementia casts a shadow over her grandma’s memories, Amy’s songs shift from simple tunes to a lifeline that keeps their love alive. However, when Amy loses her voice, she faces a new challenge: finding another way to stay connected as her grandma’s memories continue to slip away.
Mandy Woolf handles the subject of dementia with a deft and sensitive touch. She crafts a narrative that is both educational and deeply moving for young readers. The story delves into the emotional world of a girl confronting the complexities of her grandma’s illness. Amy’s journey, moving from singing to exploring other means of connection, strikes a powerful chord. It highlights the enduring power of love and the need to adapt in the face of life’s difficult changes, no matter how challenging they may be. The writing in this book is straightforward yet deeply evocative, perfectly capturing the story’s poignant essence. Woolf paints vivid images of Amy’s bright voice and her grandma’s soothing warmth, creating a lasting emotional impact. The illustrations further enhance the story, visually echoing the love between Amy and her grandma, which is something that will resonate deeply with many readers. As an added bonus, Woolf provides a fun memory game at the end of the story.
The Songbird and the Sunshine is a beautiful and impactful book, especially for those affected by dementia. It tells a story of love, loss, and the creation of new connections when the old ones fade. I strongly recommend this book to families, educators, and anyone seeking a gentle yet powerful way to discuss dementia with children. This book shines as a beacon of hope, highlighting the enduring strength of family bonds, even in life’s most challenging moments.
Pages: 32 | ISBN : 1923020633
Hop’s Case of Being Different
Hop’s Case of Being Different is a heartwarming and poignant children’s book that tackles the themes of diversity and self-acceptance through the eyes of a frog named Hop. Written by Noah Bella Michaelis at just eight years old, the story follows Hop as he navigates life in Frog Jumping Lake, where he feels out of place due to his unique features. Despite his differences, Hop eventually learns that being different is not only okay but something to be celebrated. The book, enriched with colorful illustrations by Angie Savoy, brings to life Hop’s journey in a way that is both accessible and deeply meaningful for young readers.
One of the most remarkable aspects of this book is the way it addresses complex themes in a manner that children can easily understand. Noah’s writing is simple yet powerful, and it’s evident that she drew from her own experiences and challenges in life. The story’s narrative is engaging, with Hop’s struggles and eventual triumph resonating on a personal level. What stands out is Noah’s ability to convey the idea that diversity is a strength, and this is done with a sincerity that only a child could bring forth. The illustrations by Angie Savoy complement the text beautifully, adding a visual depth to the story that enhances its emotional impact. Each character is vividly portrayed, and the colors used are both vibrant and inviting, making the book a visual treat for its young audience. The imagery of Frog Jumping Lake, with its diverse inhabitants, serves as a perfect backdrop to the story’s message. What makes Hop’s Case of Being Different truly special is the context behind its creation. Knowing that Noah, a young girl living with Congenital Heart Disease, penned this story while facing significant health challenges adds an extra layer of depth and poignancy to the book. The foreword, written by her mother, gives readers insight into the love and determination that went into bringing Hop’s story to life. It’s impossible not to feel moved by the knowledge that this book was written by someone who, despite her own challenges, had a profound understanding of what it means to feel different and the courage to share that understanding with the world.
Hop’s Case of Being Different is more than just a children’s book—it’s a testament to the power of storytelling and the resilience of the human spirit. I would recommend it to parents, teachers, and caregivers who wish to introduce young children to the concepts of diversity and self-acceptance. The story of Hop will undoubtedly inspire and comfort any child who has ever felt out of place or different, reminding them that their uniqueness is something to be celebrated, not hidden.
Pages: 36 | ISBN : 1732525404
FROM STRUGGLE TO STRENGTH: Teens’ Journey To Mental Wellness: Navigating Adolescence With Resilience And Hope
Hobokela Jackson’s From Struggle to Strength: Teens’ Journey to Mental Wellness is a compelling and insightful guide that delves into the emotional challenges teens often face during adolescence. It addresses pivotal issues such as stress, anxiety, depression, and the complex transition into adulthood, offering practical solutions like mindfulness, journaling, and building personal wellness toolkits, while underscoring the importance of family support.
Jackson’s use of personal stories allows readers to see how resilience, community involvement, and mental health advocacy play crucial roles in overcoming adversity. The book tackles essential themes like self-acceptance, identity formation, and the profound influence of peer and family support on mental well-being. One of the standout features of this work is Jackson’s empathetic tone and his ability to resonate deeply with young readers. The real-life experiences of teens navigating mental health challenges make the narrative both relatable and approachable. Jackson excels at demystifying mental health topics, offering concrete strategies teens can easily integrate into their lives—such as breathing exercises and setting realistic, manageable goals to combat anxiety and depression. Particularly noteworthy is the chapter on constructing mental wellness toolkits, which encourages teens to take control of their mental health in a proactive and empowering way. For readers familiar with mental health literature, certain content may not feel entirely groundbreaking, and the pacing slows in parts where familiar advice is revisited. Yet, Jackson’s compassionate approach to mental health education remains a highlight, offering a well-balanced mix of practical strategies and emotional insight.
From Struggle to Strength stands as a valuable resource for teens and their families, offering critical guidance in navigating the mental health hurdles of adolescence. Its emphasis on resilience and self-compassion infuses the book with hope, assuring readers that with the right tools and mindset, overcoming mental health challenges is achievable.
Pages: 183 | ASIN : B0D6WY6KTS
History of Disease. Escape
The Cold War era was a time of intense tension and uncertainty for both America and the Soviet Union, marked by a facade of stern diplomacy and covert efforts to outmaneuver each other. This is the setting for Serge R. Pospelov’s memoir, History of Disease. Army: Life, Service, and Escape from the Russian Army. The author, who grew up in the Soviet Union, offers a firsthand account of coming of age during this pivotal historical period. He vividly describes the experience of being indoctrinated to hate the American enemy while simultaneously grappling with painful truths about his own country. His narrative also delves into his deep desire to escape the oppressive environment and the intense scrutiny he endured before eventually achieving that goal.
Pospelov’s memoir is a gripping portrayal of the harsh realities of life in the U.S.S.R. from the perspective of an ordinary citizen. With a sharp wit, he recounts the ironies and challenges of daily life in the Soviet army. Readers are likely to see him as a heroic figure as he gradually confronts the overwhelming desire to leave his homeland in order to save his soul. As expected, the journey is fraught with challenges. Pospelov faces capture and interrogation under suspicion of espionage. Yet, his resourcefulness and determination shine through as he ultimately succeeds in escaping, embodying the irrepressible spirit of courage and ingenuity. Despite the serious nature of the story, Pospelov weaves in a surprising streak of dark humor. His ability to find the absurdity in his circumstances adds depth to his narrative, making it not only compelling but also endearing. It is this blend of humor and unwavering resolve that leaves a lasting impression, making Pospelov’s story both memorable and inspiring.
Serge R. Pospelov’s History of Disease. Army: Life, Service, and Escape from the Russian Army is a vivid and moving memoir that illuminates life in the Soviet Union. Pospelov’s memoir is a story of survival and a moving testimony of humans’ potent self-preservative drive. This book will stay with the reader long after they close its final pages.
Pages: 574 | ASIN : B0D8LVY5BW
The Genesis of Change
In The Genesis of Change, Livia J. Elliot presents a dark, philosophical fantasy where two alchemists, Élan and Verve, face missions that test the very foundations of their craft and humanity. Élan, renowned as a chaos-tamer and record-breaker, is entrusted with the daunting task of stripping away their mentee’s humanity, transforming her into an alchemist. Concurrently, Verve, whose influence has shaped the rise and fall of countless civilizations, is challenged to define the undefinable within a revered healer. As their paths unfold, they begin to unravel secrets that could revolutionize alchemy itself. Every step brings them closer to understanding the elusive goals of their leader, The Rector, while they grapple with a profound dilemma: should they cling to their unchanged selves or embrace the power of learning and adaptation? The genesis of change looms near, threatening to alter the very fabric of their world.
Elliot’s novella stands out as a turning point in the fantasy genre, defying conventional storytelling with its deep dive into the complexities of human nature and the mysterious art of alchemy. The narrative skillfully explores themes of transformation, power, and the heavy cost of knowledge, all woven together with elegant prose that is both intellectually stimulating and emotionally resonant. The characters, especially Élan and Verve, are meticulously crafted, embodying the tension between order and chaos, tradition and innovation. Their journeys are not merely physical or magical; they are deeply philosophical, inviting readers to introspect on their own beliefs about change and the essence of humanity. The Genesis of Change is more than just a story—it’s an experience. This novella challenges readers to think, question, and look beyond the surface, offering an experimental narrative that pushes the boundaries of dark fantasy. Elliot’s work is a powerful testament to the strength and vulnerability of the human spirit, all set within a richly imagined fantasy world where the divine brushes against the imperfect, revealing their true nature.
For readers seeking a narrative that breaks away from the ordinary and delves into the mind-bending possibilities of dark fantasy, The Genesis of Change is a must-read. It captures the struggles and triumphs of humanity through a story that is as thought-provoking as it is captivating.
Pages: 149 | ASIN : B0CTHQ99G2
LITERARY TITAN 