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The ABCs of Motivation
Can You Help Me Give a Sh*t?: Unlocking Teen Motivation in School and Life combines real-life stories with research-backed strategies, providing a comprehensive resource that can rekindle a teen’s enthusiasm for learning. What was the inspiration for writing a book on this topic?
A student asked one of my (Becca’s) colleagues, who was teaching a class on study skills, “Can you help me give a sh*t about high school? I want to, but I just don’t know how.” That colleague came to me and another colleague for advice. In the process of offering support, I realized that most of the books out there only offer token anecdotes about students’ experiences, without really collaborating with them on building solutions. So I began interviewing young people about their most and least engaging experiences in high school, and what made the difference between them. In the process, my first interviewee, Grace, became my co-author. We interviewed high school and college students from across the country, and integrated their anonymized stories into insights for parents and educators in this book.
How much research did you undertake for this book and how much time did it take to put it all together?
It took us about two and a half years to conduct the research, write, and revise this book. We formally interviewed 20 young people from all over the country and identified the themes in their experiences. We also reviewed secondary research from education and psychology to confirm if the themes students were surfacing had shown up for other researchers, and interviewed professionals (educators, researchers, and psychiatrists) and parents to generate actionable insights for the end of each chapter.
What were some ideas that were important for you to share in this book?
The most important idea is that student motivation, like any human motivation, doesn’t exist in a vacuum. It’s not just a personality trait that some people have and other people don’t. It’s heavily influenced by environmental factors, and students, educators, and parents can do things to make those factors more supportive of motivation. If you make environments that support what we refer to as the ABCs of motivation (ability, belonging, and choices), motivation increases.
The other key idea is that this can’t happen for people, it needs to happen with them: students, educators, and parents need to collaborate to build solutions together. Parents and educators also struggle with their motivation – they’re overburdened and stressed out, frequently in situations that limit their own ABCs. Respectful, creative, and thoughtful collaboration is the only sustainable way to build solutions that will work for everyone.
What is one thing that you hope readers take away from Can You Help Me Give a Sh*t??
If you’re a student, parent, or educator feeling overwhelmed, stressed out, or apathetic about school – you’re not alone! These are flip sides of the same coin, and a natural response to a system that, on the whole, isn’t designed to help anyone in it maintain sustainable motivation for learning, curiosity, and growth. At the same time, waiting on systemic change can take too long for the people stuck in difficult situations right now. This book will help give ideas on what to do right now to improve motivation, as well as start conversations that can improve the broader system over the long term.
Author Links: GoodReads | Facebook | Instagram | Website
Sparked by this student’s request, educator and parent Dr. Rebecca Block and undergraduate student Grace Edwards began talking with teens across the country. Students spoke about when and how school fell short and what made the difference when it didn’t.
Can You Help Me Give a Sh*t? shares those stories, alongside research in psychology and education, to explore how to help young people build lasting motivation – not the kind that leads to short, panic-driven bursts of productivity, but the kind that energizes over the long haul.
Don’t wait for systemic changes. Discover engaging stories and practical strategies to empower parents and educators to:
– Build relationships that support sustainable motivation
– Encourage student voice and agency
– Make school feel more relevant
– Manage screens’ impact on motivation
A must-read for anyone invested in rekindling students’ love of learning. Get this book to start making a difference in your teens’ lives today.
The Tales of Sophie Shenanigans: Sophie Takes a Trip
The Tales of Sophie Shenanigans: Sophie Takes a Trip, written by Jill Macdonald and illustrated by Anniella Ragaza, tells the heartwarming story of Sophie, a young rescue dog known for her playful antics, as she embarks on a journey to her new home. What should be a joyous occasion is instead filled with anxiety and uncertainty for Sophie as she navigates through the unfamiliar faces and smells of the airport, heading towards her adoptive family. With her hopes for a wonderful new experience tempered by fear, Sophie finds comfort and guidance from a newfound friend, police dog Maverick.
Macdonald’s story is not just a beautifully illustrated tale of new beginnings; it is also a valuable resource for young readers dealing with anxiety and change. Through Sophie’s experiences, readers are introduced to coping mechanisms and appropriate ways to manage stress. Macdonald skillfully breaks down complex terms into kid-friendly language, enriching the story with new vocabulary related to stress and anxiety. The unique blend of an engaging narrative with practical life lessons makes Sophie Takes a Trip a standout in children’s literature. The book provides a touching and relatable story while imparting essential skills for managing anxiety—skills that can be challenging to convey to both children and adults. This installment of Sophie’s Tales is an invaluable addition to family and school libraries, offering guidance for parents, teachers, and counselors alike.
The Tales of Sophie Shenanigans: Sophie Takes a Trip is a must-have for anyone seeking a heartwarming story that also teaches vital coping strategies. It is a beautifully crafted tale that promises to resonate with young readers and their families, helping them navigate the complexities of change and anxiety together.
Pages: 34 | ASIN : B0CX2NNNH9
Miranda Fights
Miranda Fights follows the gripping journey of Miranda Quinn, a determined attorney and former talk show host, who delves into a tangled web of human trafficking and corruption. Set in the quiet town of New London, Miranda’s mission begins with her legal aid work and quickly escalates as she uncovers a series of disturbing disappearances. As Miranda juggles her demanding career, personal life, and a deeply troubling case, she must navigate dangerous waters to seek justice for the vulnerable girls caught in the crossfire.
From the start, I was hooked by the novel’s engaging premise and well-paced narrative. Gail Ward Olmsted perfectly balances the thriller elements with heartfelt moments, creating a story that’s both suspenseful and emotionally resonant. The character development is particularly strong, especially Miranda, who is portrayed as a complex and relatable protagonist. Her interactions with colleagues, clients, and family members add depth to her character and make her struggles and triumphs feel personal and impactful.
One thing I really liked about this book was Olmsted’s ability to weave in social issues without coming across as preachy. The book tackles the grim realities of human trafficking with sensitivity and realism, highlighting the importance of advocacy and legal intervention. Specific scenes, such as Miranda’s support group sessions and her conversations with Detective Dennis Reynaldo, bring the issue to the forefront in a way that’s informative and gripping.
Miranda Fights is a compelling thriller that combines legal drama with a strong social message. Olmsted’s writing is engaging, and her characters are well-crafted, making it easy to become invested in their journey. This book is perfect for fans of legal thrillers, crime dramas, and anyone interested in stories that shine a light on important social issues.
Pages: 260 | ASIN : B0DBJ3DN4N
Captain Bacawly and the Breakaway Bandits
Captain Bacawly And The Breakaway Bandits by Jimmy Jungles is a captivating young adult novel that transports readers to the enchanting world of a thirteen-year-old boy named Jimmy, who lives among a community of animals. This tale explores the growing tensions between Jimmy and his animal friends as they navigate their unique society. When pirates enter the scene, the story escalates into an exhilarating conflict between Jimmy and these new foes.
More than just a tale of adventurous teen spirit, the narrative is rich with conflict, rivalries, and eccentric friendships, all set against a fascinating and believable animal world. The story is enhanced by stunning illustrations and unexpected twists and turns, keeping readers engaged throughout. Jungles skillfully invites readers to join Jimmy on his quest to save the island of Wazoo and restore peace to its inhabitants. Jungles’ writing style is both clever and engaging, filled with imaginative yet realistic characters. The story begins with Jimmy recounting a dream that transports him away from his treehouse in the jungle of Wazoo, an exotic island he calls home. This dream sets the stage for his mission to save the island. The plot is continuously paced and meticulously crafted to capture and maintain the attention of young readers. Packed with surprising twists and satisfying outcomes, the story keeps readers on the edge of their seats. Jungles’ characters are well-developed and endearing, making the plot even more compelling. The incredible illustrations further bring the story to life. Readers find themselves as fond of the animals as Jimmy is, thanks to Jungles’ vivid and heartfelt depiction of these characters.
Captain Bacawly And The Breakaway Bandits is an entertaining and lively story that appeals to readers of all ages. Jimmy Jungles’ talent as a writer is evident from the start, making this an engrossing and enjoyable read, particularly for a youthful audience.
Pages: 314 | ASIN : B0CWKV3X2H
American Diplomat
American Diplomat by Alex Reinshagen offers a captivating journey through the author’s experiences across various countries, serving the U.S. in top-secret missions. Reinshagen’s narrative vividly captures the highs and lows of his 26-year career in firefighting, law enforcement, and the U.S. Foreign Service. Readers are taken on a thrilling ride, from protecting U.S. Ambassador Nancy Powell in Pakistan to transporting Palestinian prisoners to an Israeli jail in a remote desert town.
The book is enlightening, offering insights into the terminologies and missions of those in the U.S. Foreign Service and law enforcement. For instance, the term “slow roll” is explained as an agent signal indicating it’s safe for the lead vehicle to slowly depart from where the motorcade is parked. Such details enhance the reader’s understanding of the field’s intricacies. Reinshagen’s missions are suspenseful and rich in detail, making readers feel as if they are part of the action. Whether he is undercover to catch illegal passport dealers or operating in a war zone, his stories are captivating from beginning to end. The author’s mastery of English, with vivid similes like, “The stench in the room burned my lungs like a cigarette on my chest,” adds to the book’s appeal. The narrative also delves into Reinshagen’s personal life, from his childhood dream of becoming a police officer to his post-retirement life and his family’s struggles with COVID-19. His personal accounts are heartfelt, allowing his voice and personality to shine through and draw readers closer to his core essence. Themes of marriage, law enforcement, culture, politics, and passport fraud are interwoven throughout the book, adding depth and complexity.
Alex Reinshagen has crafted a compelling and educational story in his memoir American Diplomat. It is a must-read for fans of law enforcement and travel narratives. The book’s nuanced storytelling ensures that readers will discover something new with each read, making it a tale worth revisiting.
Pages: 245 | ASIN : B0CZBSRV87
Sunshine Clinic: A Novel with Recipes
Sunshine Clinic by Meera Ekkanath Klein is a captivating tale centered on the journey of its protagonist, Sunny, also known as Thangam. After completing her medical studies and gaining valuable experience, Sunny returns to her childhood home of Mahagiri. This town is where she grew up, faced loss, and where her family, including extended in-laws and a cherished niece, still resides. Despite her father’s absence, the longstanding presence of those who have worked for her family remains. Initially eager to escape her hometown, Sunny now finds herself irresistibly drawn back, yearning for the familiarity she once knew. Yet, she grapples with the challenge of stepping out of her family’s shadow. The central question is whether she can find a balance that allows her to pursue her passion on her own terms.
This novel deeply explores family dynamics, resonating with the universal theme of leaving home to discover oneself, only to yearn for a return to familiar roots. The opening line, “My mother used to say the best part of leaving is coming home again,” perfectly encapsulates this sentiment, immediately engaging readers with questions about Sunny’s past and her motivations for returning. Rich in cultural detail, Sunshine Clinic immerses readers in its setting through the use of regional dialects and phrases like “bonda and tea,” “Akka,” “Kutty,” and “chechi.” These elements not only bring the environment to life but also highlight the distinct culture being portrayed. This compelling narrative of a woman discovering herself and her place among loved ones is beautifully depicted.
Meera Ekkanath Klein’s Sunshine Clinic offers rich characters and cultural elements that provide a relatable yet unique lifestyle. The strong emphasis on family bonds adds warmth and depth to the story. I highly recommend this novel and eagerly anticipate more works from this talented author.
Pages: 315 | ASIN : B0CYXWLXS9
Scars 0f The Heart
Scars of The Heart by Bob Van Laerhoven is a compelling collection of short stories that delve into the profound impacts of war. The initial stories, set in various war eras, are particularly devastating, highlighting the unquantifiable effects of war on the human psyche. Through these narratives, Van Laerhoven transports readers to the shattered worlds of war-torn individuals, offering poignant glimpses into their lives and struggles.
The author takes a unique approach to representing human nature, weaving tales that feature a diverse cast of characters, including aliens, painters, friends, enemies, and exploring themes of betrayal, loyalty, greed, love, and revenge. This eclectic mix adds depth and variety to the collection, ensuring that each story is distinct and memorable. Van Laerhoven’s writing style is reminiscent of the macabre and powerful prose of Roald Dahl. His stories shock and captivate, blending mysticism with stark reality. Although fictional, these tales resonate with truths about the human condition. Not all stories are set on battlefields, but the sense of war—whether physical or psychological—permeates the collection. The settings range from the war-torn Middle East to World War II and Nazi Germany, bridging past and present to create relevant and relatable narratives. I finished the book with immense respect for the author’s raw and heartbreaking portrayals of reality. The non-war stories are equally compelling, showcasing Van Laerhoven’s versatility and skill in crafting riveting tales.
Fans of Roald Dahl or Edgar Allan Poe will appreciate the beautifully crafted stories in Scars of The Heart. For those who enjoy well-constructed plots and complex characters, this collection is a must-read. I highly recommend this book to anyone who can endure the psychological turmoil and pain depicted, as it offers profound insights into the atrocities and resilience of life.
Pages: 245 | ASIN : B0CX5S8NJZ
LITERARY TITAN 