Blog Archives
Just Me: Now That I’m in School?
Just Me: Now That I’m in School! introduces children to the idea that school is a shared community rather than a place where everyone can simply do as they please. Using the image of a classroom as a boat, the book explains that “smooth sailing” depends on cooperation, listening, honesty, kindness, responsibility, and respect. It gradually connects these everyday behaviors to the larger idea of democracy, showing young readers that citizenship begins with small choices such as taking turns, helping others, following rules, and using words instead of anger.
I appreciated the book’s clear sense of purpose. It doesn’t tiptoe around expectations, and there’s something reassuring about that. The writing is simple, direct, and built for repetition, which makes the ideas easy for young children to absorb. I especially liked the comparison between parents having jobs and children having school as their job. That line gives learning and classroom behavior a sense of dignity. The message is more instructional than story-driven. The plainspoken approach feels intentional, and it gives parents and teachers plenty of natural openings for conversation.
The book’s most interesting choice is its use of the word “democracy.” That’s a large and potentially abstract idea for a picture book, yet the author brings it down to a child’s level without stripping it of meaning. Democracy here isn’t presented as a distant lesson about government. It’s presented as the daily work of living alongside other people. I found that thoughtful and quietly ambitious. The artwork supports that approach with uncluttered pages, expressive stick figures, and familiar school situations. The illustrations’ stick-figure simplicity keeps the focus on behavior and emotion. A worried face, a high five, two children sharing a book, or a group gathered on a boat communicates the point immediately.
I found Just Me: Now That I’m in School! to be a sincere and practical book with an unusually thoughtful message about community. It works best when read aloud slowly, with pauses for children to talk about fairness, truthfulness, cooperation, and what they owe to the people around them. I’d recommend it for families with children entering elementary school, as well as teachers, counselors, and homeschoolers looking for a gentle way to begin conversations about classroom citizenship. It’s a useful reminder that learning how to belong is every bit as important as learning how to read.
Pages: 36
My Community: People Who Help
My Community: People Who Help, by Carolyn Wild, is an engaging children’s book that introduces young children to the many people who help communities stay safe, healthy, organized, and connected. From firefighters, police officers, doctors, and teachers to farmers, librarians, bus drivers, chefs, veterinarians, sanitation workers, and construction workers, the book shows how each person has an important role to play. Young readers are encouraged to see their community as a place where people work together, support one another, and contribute in meaningful ways.
One of the book’s greatest strengths is its child-friendly presentation. The short sentences, large text, and clear explanations make the information easy for beginning readers to understand. The colorful illustrations and real-life photos help children connect each job with familiar tools, uniforms, and everyday responsibilities. These visual elements keep the book lively and engaging while helping readers better understand what each community helper does.
I think this picture book is especially well-suited for kindergarten through early elementary students, particularly children ages six to eight. In addition to teaching about community helpers, it supports early literacy through features such as syllable pages, picture review pages, sight words, and helpful reading tips for parents and educators. These added learning tools make the book useful not only for independent reading but also for classrooms, libraries, homeschooling, and family read-aloud time.
My Community: People Who Help is a warm, educational, and thoughtfully designed children’s book that teaches kids about cooperation, responsibility, and the value of helping others. It offers a wonderful introduction to careers and community life without feeling overly formal or difficult. With its bright visuals, simple language, and positive message, this book is a valuable resource for young readers who are learning about the people who make their neighborhoods thrive.
Pages: 32 | ASIN : B0GCGRTRTS
Love is Possible
Hold Me follows a woman diagnosed with fibromyalgia who has put her life on hold for years and now questions her future after reuniting with a man from her past. What was the inspiration for the setup of your story?
Due to this story being set in the village of Greengrove, where all my books are currently set, I wanted Dawn to meet someone from her past who was better than someone she went to school with. That way they shared a past but not enough that they knew each other too much. I also wanted to show that people with conditions such as fibromyalgia are just as capable of falling in love and being in relationships as long as they have someone who understands them and their condition.
Who is your favorite character to write for and why?
My favourite changes with every book. For this book, I think Debbie was my favourite because she was the sister that you would love to have supportive but annoying, strong but loving and funny.
Is there anything from your own life included in Dawn and Connor’s experiences?
I have Fibromyalgia so when I wrote Dawn’s experience of it I had to use a lot of mine from being diagnosed to falling over and cuddling the concrete to the shower pin pricking me as the water runs down on me. I wanted it to be as realistic as possible but I knew that everyones fibromyalgia can be different so I was mindful of that.
Can fans look forward to a fourth installment in the Greengrove series? Where will it take readers?
Yes there will be a fourth installment of the Greengrove Series it’s called Second Chances and I am writing it now it is Debbie’s (Dawn’s twin sister) story and how she accidentally bumps into the man who broke her heart in London while she was there for a weekend away. Only it turns out that things are not as simple as that.
Author Links: X | Facebook | Website | Book Review
Dawn had lived in Greengrove all her life. Love had never been a priority in her mind. She had plenty of time for that, especially after watching her twin sister Debbie fall in love and have her heart shattered. Why would you put yourself through that?
For the past few years, Dawn has been suffering from ill health. Being given a diagnosis was a double-edged sword. Yes, they now knew what was wrong with her, but now she feels useless. All those things that she had put on hold may now not happen. Falling in love and having children is no longer a possibility. Who would want to stick around with her now?
But a chance meeting with one boy she went to school with proves her wrong. Can she believe he could love her and her broken body?
Hold Me (A Greengrove Novel)
Helen Kelly’s Hold Me: A Greengrove Novel is an intimate and touching exploration of life’s challenges, resilience, and relationships within the small-town setting of Greengrove. Through the intertwined stories of Dawn and Connor, the novel delves into themes of chronic illness, personal rediscovery, and community connection, all underpinned by the comforting yet dynamic rhythms of village life. Dawn’s journey with fibromyalgia and Connor’s commitment to balancing duty and personal growth anchor the story with realism and depth.
What struck me most about Hold Me was its emotional authenticity. Kelly masterfully captures Dawn’s struggles with her chronic illness, painting a vivid picture of her physical pain and emotional turmoil. The spoon theory—used to symbolize limited energy—was woven into the narrative with clarity and care. Dawn’s sister Debbie’s persistence to push her out of her comfort zone, particularly with the choir, was heartwarming.
The writing also shines when exploring the quieter yet equally profound moments of connection between characters. Connor’s warmth and sense of responsibility as he helps Jane and Dawn after choir practice, or when he reflects on his father’s legacy, adds layers to his character. His scenes often left me smiling, especially his banter with James about joining the choir. Kelly’s ability to balance levity with earnestness—as seen in Connor’s conversations—keeps the narrative engaging without feeling heavy-handed.
By the end, I felt uplifted and hopeful, which is a testament to Kelly’s skill in addressing heavy topics with grace. Hold Me is a book for anyone seeking a heartfelt story about perseverance and the power of community. It will particularly resonate with readers navigating their own challenges or those who enjoy character-driven tales set in charming, close-knit communities. Helen Kelly reminds us through Dawn and Connor’s journeys that vulnerability can lead to strength and that the smallest steps forward are often the most meaningful.
Pages: 288 | ISBN : 978-1739607463
Reading Hunger
The Objective Scholar is a collection of poems exploring themes such as love and loss, growth and community, and resilience. What was the inspiration for your collection?
Yes! The poems I write are inspired by real-life experiences, day-to-day activities, and current events. I set this collection up by grouping all poems to ensure I include something for everyone from all walks of life. Reading works from other writers showed me a level of intellect, class, and thought-provoking skills. I wanted to do the same, but in my way, with my spin on it. So many times, I’ve encountered supporters who ask for more. I’ve read some collections that made me want more as well. I ensured I shared enough to satisfy their reading hunger (food for thought).
Can you share a bit about your writing process? Do you have any rituals or routines when writing poetry?
Yes! My writing vice emerges within me at the weirdest times and moments. I can be working at my job, as random thoughts come to mind. The spark can hit me when I’m in the shower, sleeping in the middle of the night, driving in my car (which is the craziest), in a conversation, and reading a book.
Currently, my favorite and most productive writing routine I have is sitting in a Starbucks with a hot cup of Chi Tea Latte. Other times I may find a quiet place in a library, beach, or local park.
How much do real-life events and personal experiences influence your writing?
I would say more than 50% of my writing is heavily influenced in that way. I respond to real-life events most times after learning of the occurrence. For the personal experiences when I’m reflecting back on it. This approach came to me reading other poets and realizing that their voice spoke as they saw it.
What is the next book that you are working on, and when will it be available?
I don’t want to spoil the surprise but I am writing several manuscripts all untitled at the moment. I’m piecing them all together one step at a time. However, my goal is to push to have one complete and ready over the next 1, 2, or 3 years.
Author Links: GoodReads | X (Twitter) | Facebook | Website | Amazon
Written to eloquently deliver sounds, rhythm, and style that honor and bend the rules, the content is a resource for librarians, teachers, and professors to use when working with novice writers. These poems are fueled by the author’s experiences and observations as an Afro-American male within Black America, offering a solid confluence of themes and ideas relevant to the present-day.
Finding Common Ground
Whispers in the Vineyard follows a woman looking to learn more about her heritage and winemaking who falls in love with the son of a rival family. What inspired the setup of your story?
Whispers in the Vineyard draws inspiration from a rich textile of sources, combining elements of classic romantic literature, the time-honored tradition of vineyard cultivation, and the vibrant cultural heritage of Ghana. The central theme of the story—rival families with a complicated history finding common ground through the younger generation is a twist that highlights reconciliation and cooperation instead of tragedy.
The novel also taps into the universal appeal of returning to one’s roots. The protagonist (Loom)’s journey to learn more about her heritage and the art of winemaking serves as a metaphor for exploring one’s identity and reconciling with one’s past. This theme resonates deeply in a global context where many seek to reconnect with and understand their cultural backgrounds. Additionally, the setting in a vineyard is particularly symbolic. Vineyards, which require patience, careful cultivation, and a deep understanding of the land, parallel the process of nurturing relationships and building communities. They are places where nature meets human craft, where each season brings new challenges and opportunities for growth—much like the personal and communal growth experienced by the characters in the novel.
Lastly, the choice to set the story in Ghana—with its rich history, diverse cultures, and beautiful landscapes—provides a backdrop that enriches the narrative with authenticity and a sense of place. It allows the story to delve into specific cultural practices, particularly those surrounding agriculture and communal living, that shape the characters’ lives and the plot’s development.
Overall, the setup of Whispers in the Vineyard was inspired by a desire to weave together themes of love, heritage, and personal growth within the evocative setting of a Ghanaian vineyard, offering readers a story of enduring human connections forged in the face of historical rivalries.
Are there any emotions or memories from your own life that you put into your characters’ lives?
For characters in a novel like Whispers in the Vineyard, emotions such as longing, redemption, and reconciliation are often inspired by universal human experiences. These emotions are frequently explored in literature and reflect common human conditions—struggling with one’s identity, resolving past conflicts, seeking understanding and common ground, and experiencing the growth that comes from overcoming challenges.
Moreover, the emotions and journeys that characters like Loom and Feika experience can be modeled on real-life stories of heritage discovery, the complexities of family legacies, and the passionate pursuit of personal and professional dreams. The backdrop of a vineyard adds a layer of connection to the land and a tradition that many readers might find evocative and grounding. Thus, while the characters and their emotions are fictional, they are constructed to echo real human feelings and developments, not the author’s personal life, making them accessible and engaging for readers who may see reflections of their own lives and struggles within these stories.
What were some themes that were important for you to explore in this book?
In Whispers in the Vineyard, several themes were pivotal to enrich the narrative and offer depth to the reader’s experience. Here are some of the key themes explored in the book:
1. Heritage and Legacy: The book delves into the significance of understanding and embracing one’s heritage. Loom’s journey into the world of winemaking is not just about learning to manage a vineyard but also about connecting with her ancestral roots and the legacy left by her family. This theme underscores the importance of preserving cultural heritage and how it shapes individual identity.
2. Reconciliation and Forgiveness: The theme of overcoming historical rivalries and personal grievances is central to the novel. The story explores how Loom and Feika navigate their initial animosity and the broader family feud to find common ground. Their journey toward reconciliation serves as a metaphor for healing and building new futures on the foundation of forgiven pasts.
3. Community and Unity: The story highlights the strength and resilience of community bonds. As Loom and Feika work together to revitalize the vineyards, they also strive to unite the community of Domeabra. The book celebrates how collective efforts and shared goals can lead to substantial communal growth and harmony.
4. Love and Partnership: Loom and Feika’s romantic love intertwines with their professional partnership, showing how relationships can evolve from rivalry to deep affection and mutual respect. This theme is explored in the context of personal and professional growth, illustrating how love can drive change and achievement.
5. Connection to the Land: The vineyard itself is almost a character in the story, representing a deep connection to the land that sustains the community. This theme explores how the land shapes the lives of the characters and serves as a legacy that ties generations together. It also reflects on the challenges and rewards of working closely with nature.
6. Resilience and Adaptation: The characters’ ability to adapt to changing circumstances and overcome challenges is a recurring theme. The novel showcases how resilience, often nurtured through adversity, is crucial for both personal growth and community survival.
7. The Power of Stories: Throughout the novel, stories play a crucial role in preserving history, teaching lessons, and bringing people together. The theme of storytelling is celebrated as a means of passing on wisdom, maintaining cultural identity, and strengthening bonds within the community.
What is the next book that you are working on, and when can your fans expect it to be out?
I am currently writing a romance novel. As I fine-tune the elements of these stories, considering various factors that will shape their final forms, I will soon decide on the final title and when it will reach my readers. I eagerly look forward to sharing this news with my fans. Stay tuned for updates and teasers that I hope will whet your appetite for the romantic journeys ahead!
Author Links: GoodReads | Twitter | Facebook | Website | Amazon
Despite their intermittent clashes, Loom and Feika’s mutual passion for winemaking and respect for tradition kindled a romance that blossomed amidst the challenges they faced. The discovery of family diaries unveiled a history of love and conflict. Nevertheless, that discovery laid the groundwork for understanding, healing, and love.
Bravely confronting the past, Loom and Feika collaborated to unite their vineyards. Their journey, marked by innovation, resilience, and community support, transformed their rivalry into a partnership that revitalized the vineyards and became the heartbeat of Domeabra.
They ultimately got married and were blessed with a baby girl, Loombik. The novel culminates in a grand celebration of the vineyard’s success, symbolizing the power of unity and the enduring bonds of love. They experienced the transformative power of forgiveness and the beauty of a shared vision woven into the rich embroidery of Ghanaian culture.
WAKE UP AMERICA!
When you find yourself wondering why society at large seems to be on a self-destructive path with little hope for survival, one of the most refreshing things that you can find is the idea that not all is, in fact, lost. That idea can mean many things to many different types of people. Whether the thought that we can still turn things around gives people hope or goes so far as to create a road-map for future success, any idea or discussion breathing new life into failing systems is a positive addition to our body of knowledge. Charlie Petersen, long-time technology management specialist turned author, seems to be a good source of game-changing ideas, and many of them make a lot of sense.
Wake Up America covers a lot of ground but is centered around the idea that if we, as global citizens, don’t change our ways we are headed for destruction of two types: war and/or depression. The author, Charlie Petersen, argues that in an ever more globalized society we all have a responsibility to choose a brighter path to planetary stability and harmony.
As it would seem pretty clear that most of us aren’t willing to initiate the kinds of changes that are required to avoid a meltdown, Petersen presents his ideas for change as being ones to be taken up by the governments of the world. He maps out a solution to reduce the dependency on oil and gas, while at the same time focusing on the coming water crises. Petersen discusses what would be required for a global paradigm shift and discusses why those holding power currently are not prepared to act, although they are aware that action is needed.
How can the status quo be reimagined? Who or what forces would be responsible for initiating a new approach? The author of Wake Up America goes to great lengths to answer those questions and more in this important work.
Wake up calls usually come in a couple of varieties. Those which are too far-fetched to do anyone any good, and those that deliver logic and science together with a solid dose of reasoning to make sense of it all. Wake Up America, published by Matchstick Literary, is the latter. All in all, Wake Up America contains in depth research and unique approaches to solving the current problems facing our world.
Pages: 344 | ISBN: 1642540447
Ellie’s Redemption – Trailer
The comforting aroma of fresh baked-and-buttered bread. The hearty spice of cinnamon-oatmeal bars and hot coffee. In 1912 Ohio, The Amish Charm Bakery is the sweet sustaining center of a faith-abiding town built on peace, forgiveness—and ever-surprising love . . .
Ellie Graber couldn’t be happier working at Amish Charm—and making good on a precious chance to reunite with her Amish community. Grief over her mother’s death made her rebel and try the Englischer world, but now she’s home to start again. And quiet, thoughtful Joel Wenger is one of the few willing to understand her as their unexpected friendship develops into something much more . . .
But no matter how hard Ellie tries, Joel’s mother resolutely refuses to approve of her—much less accept her as a potential daughter-in-law. And as painful misunderstandings and a beautiful rival for Joel’s affections threaten to separate the couple for good, can they bridge the gap between distrust and faith to secure a lifetime of love?
