Blog Archives
Rewilding
At its heart, Rewilding is a tender, poignant middle grade novel about twelve-year-old Joy, who finds herself juggling way more than any kid should. While taking care of her younger brother Ian and hiding their struggling home life from nosy adults, Joy stumbles into something unexpectedly healing: nature. Between dodging Child Protective Services and trying to keep her family from falling apart, she begins to rewild a neglected yard and, in the process, slowly begins to rewild herself.
Joy’s narration is painfully real, funny in all the right ways, and completely heartbreaking when it needs to be. Right from chapter one, when she eavesdrops on a conversation between the school counselor and her brother, we’re dropped into a world where Joy is already carrying the emotional weight of an adult. “Big clumsy Joy strikes again,” she says after barging into Bertie’s office, and that moment hits like a brick. She’s trying so hard to hold things together that you want to jump into the story and tell her she doesn’t have to. But that’s the thing, she does have to. No one else will.
The themes Gerlits weaves through the story of neglect, gaslighting, mental illness, and body image are handled with honesty and subtlety, but they never weigh the book down. Joy’s relationship with her own body, for instance, is explored quietly and compassionately. She’s constantly aware of her size, of how her clothes don’t fit right anymore, of how people react to her strength. And then comes the moment when Joy discovers a baby bird in the woodpile and makes the quiet but profound decision to care for it. The scene is deeply moving. When she gently says, “You trust me,” to the fragile creature in her hands, it becomes a powerful symbol of her own longing to be trusted, needed, and capable. For a brief instant, everything else in the story seems to pause around that simple, tender exchange.
But what I loved most was the metaphor of rewilding. Not just the literal ecosystem restoration Joy does in the ARK yard, but the way she’s unknowingly restoring herself. Her home life is rough. Her mom is barely functioning, her dad is unreliable, and her little brother is too young to understand the danger they’re in. Yet Joy never gives up. She mows the lawn, feeds her brother, protects her mom’s dignity, and tries (with mixed results) to raise a bird. The passage in which Joy resolves to clean up the yard to prevent others from suspecting neglect is among the most emotionally wrenching in the novel. It reveals a fierce, protective love intertwined with a desperate desire to maintain control over an unraveling situation. The moment is rendered with striking authenticity and emotional depth.
Rewilding isn’t just a story for kids. It’s for anyone who’s ever tried to make the best of a messy situation. It’s for anyone who’s ever felt unseen or overwhelmed or not strong enough, only to discover they are. I’d recommend this book to middle grade readers who like realistic stories with heart, but also to adults who remember what it was like to be young and scared and brave all at once. This book doesn’t shy away from hard truths, but it also offers hope in the shape of a baby bird, a patch of wildflowers, and a girl who learns she really does know her own strength.
Pages: 288 | ASIN : B0DZCJYQHW
New Life Provides Hope
Rooted: An Old Tree’s Journey is a picture book that follows an old oak tree named Dendro as he mentors a young sapling through the joys and heartbreaks of life in the forest. What inspired you to tell a story from the perspective of an old tree?
It’s important to show that Dendro prospers despite going through profound losses and challenges. Dendro models perseverance and the passing down of wisdom as a lifelong process.
How did you approach writing about trauma, like the fire, in a way that’s honest but still comforting for young readers?
Trauma can come unexpectedly (like the forest fire), or it can be a long process. Regardless, it is frightening and stressful. Any child who has gone through it can relate to Vince’s comment that weeks later, he could not get the crackling sound of the fire out of his mind. But when Vince notices green sprouts on the ground, it’s healing. New life provides hope for Vince and young readers.
Dendro feels so real and wise. Did you model him after someone in your life?
Those who know me well say that they see me in Dendro. It is true. I am my character. Through painful experiences, I have persevered and have found purpose in encouraging others.
What is the next book that you are working on, and when will it be available?
Rooted: A Wildlife Tree’s Journey is the fifth and final book in the “Rooted” series. It is currently available. It is an emotional account of a tree’s life that has come full circle.
Author Links: GoodReads | Facebook | Website | Amazon
The Suicide Prevention Family Handbook
The Suicide Prevention Family Handbook, by Brett Cotter, is a deeply compassionate and practical guide for those facing the realities of depression, suicidal ideation, and grief. The book serves as a roadmap for families and individuals navigating these challenges, offering step-by-step techniques to provide support, regain emotional balance, and rebuild life after loss. While it does not replace professional medical or psychological treatment, it complements traditional approaches by focusing on mindfulness, emotional release, and effective communication strategies.
One of the most powerful aspects of this book is its emphasis on the role of emotional pain in suicidal ideation. Cotter explains that emotional pain is seeking to be “seen, heard, and loved.” This perspective shifts the focus from simply preventing suicide to addressing its emotional root causes. The techniques he provides, such as the 5 Prompts, which encourage open-ended, compassionate listening, are practical and immediately useful. His step-by-step breakdown of how to hold space for a loved one, particularly the sections on body language and tone, make this guide stand out. It’s not just about what to say but how to be with someone in pain, and that nuance is essential.
Cotter’s personal anecdotes make the book feel intimate and real. His description of working with veterans struggling with PTSD and suicidal ideation, along with his own past experiences with emotional pain, add authenticity to his methods. The story of how he guided someone out of suicidal ideation in 2003 by simply listening, grounding himself, and asking, “Please tell me more,” is a striking example of how small shifts in approach can make a life-saving difference. It’s one thing to discuss theories of emotional healing, but Cotter’s book is packed with real-life examples that prove the effectiveness of his techniques.
Another strong point is his approach to grief. He acknowledges that loss, especially from suicide, can be overwhelming, but he doesn’t offer empty platitudes. Instead, he provides tangible exercises, like the Letting Go with Love Visualization and Calling Loved Ones Into Our Dreams, which allow people to continue their relationship with lost loved ones in a meaningful way. His insight that guilt after a loved one’s suicide is a natural survival mechanism, rather than an indicator of personal failure, is a revelation that could provide comfort to many struggling with loss.
The Suicide Prevention Family Handbook is for anyone who has a loved one struggling with depression, those dealing with their own suicidal thoughts, and individuals grieving a tragic loss. It’s not just for mental health professionals; it’s written for everyday people who want to learn how to truly support those in pain. Cotter’s writing is clear, heartfelt, and filled with empathy, making it an accessible and invaluable resource. If you’re looking for practical tools to help yourself or someone you care about, this book is well worth the read.
Pages: 58 | ASIN : B0DPJKWXDT
Little Boy, I Know Your Name: A Second-Generation Memoir from Inherited Holocaust Trauma
Readers looking for a book that hits you right in the feels and leaves you thinking long afterward, will not want to miss Little Boy, I Know Your Name by Mitchell Raff. This memoir dives into the author’s life, showing how inherited trauma from the Holocaust shaped him and the people around him. It’s raw, emotional, and brutally honest, painting a picture of a childhood full of pain, survival, and moments of unexpected love.
From the first chapter, this book pulls no punches. Raff shares heartbreaking stories of his abusive mother and the chaos that surrounded his young life. One scene that will stick with me forever is when his mom threw him out of the house into the cold night. It’s gut-wrenching, and I couldn’t help but feel for the little boy he was. But there’s balance in the way he writes. He also talks about the kindness and stability he found with his uncle and aunt, who stepped in as surrogate parents. Their love gave the story some much-needed light, and I found myself rooting for them just as much as for Raff.
The focus on his childhood trauma is the primary focus of the book, and I found myself wishing for more information about his father’s struggles or his adult life. But maybe that’s the point, though. It really allows readers to sit with the weight of everything he went through. A moment I remember was when his therapist called him a “well-dressed poser.” It was a wake-up call for Raff and, honestly, a moment that made me reflect on my own life, too. We all wear masks, don’t we?
What really makes this book special to me is how it tackles inherited trauma. Raff’s family, like so many Holocaust survivors, tried to bury the pain. But it seeped through in ways they couldn’t control. It’s these quiet and powerful memories that make the book more than just a story about one man’s struggles.
By the time I finished, I felt a mix of heartbreak and hope. The ending, where Raff reflects on his son Joshua and the possibility of breaking free from the cycle of pain, strikes just the right note. It’s not a happily-ever-after, but it’s real, and it left me believing healing is possible.
I’d recommend Little Boy, I Know Your Name to anyone who loves memoirs that dig deep. If you liked The Glass Castle or Night, Raff’s writing will resonate with you. It’s not a breezy read, but it’s the kind of book that reminds you of the strength it takes to confront the past and move forward.
Pages: 235 | ASIN : B0CLL22MMG
You Are the Boss of You: Cultivate the Mindset and Tools to Live Life on Your Terms
You Are the Boss of You is an introspective guide for reclaiming personal power and healing. Shauna Brittenham Reiter combines her personal struggles with trauma and mental health with a toolkit of practical strategies. The book weaves her story of resilience with lessons on setting boundaries, healing trauma, self-soothing, and redefining self-worth. Each chapter explores a key aspect of personal growth, from softening perfectionism to honoring sleep, with actionable advice for creating a life aligned with your deepest desires.
One thing I appreciated about the book is its honest vulnerability. Reiter’s willingness to share her journey, like the forty-day fast that landed her in a psychiatric ward, is not only brave but creates a strong connection with the reader. The chapter on healing trauma resonated with me, where she unpacks how unresolved childhood experiences echo into adulthood. Her perspective on recognizing these patterns and gently confronting them is relatable and encouraging. The anecdotes make you feel like you’re sitting with someone who has “been there” and genuinely wants to help.
I also found the writing style straightforward and powerful. The chapter on boundaries, for instance, dives into why we often say “yes” when we mean “no” and how that erodes our self-respect over time. Her examples of practicing saying “no,” like declining a party invite without overexplaining, are simple but effective. It hit home for me because I tend to overcommit and then regret it. Her guidance felt like a friend reminding me to put myself first without guilt.
Chapter 9, “Advocating for Yourself,” stood out to me as one of the most empowering sections of the book. It struck a perfect balance between relatable examples and actionable advice, encouraging readers to take control of their own narratives. What I liked most about this chapter was its focus on the emotional and psychological blocks that prevent people from standing up for themselves and the practical strategies Reiter offers to overcome these challenges.
You Are the Boss of You, by Shauna Brittenham Reiter, is an empowering read. It would resonate with anyone navigating trauma recovery, struggling with boundaries, or simply seeking a more fulfilling life. Reiter’s raw honesty, paired with practical tools, makes this a great book for readers ready to reclaim their agency and live authentically. If you’re ready to become “the boss of you,” this book is worth the read.
Pages: 288 | ASIN : B0DBVN56ZG
A Special Relationship
Where’s Grandma? is a touching picture book that gently helps kids navigate the complex emotions of grief and loss through the comforting memories of a grandmother’s love. What was the inspiration for the setup of your story?
When I lost my mom I decided to put it into a book and pay homage to her. She was our Queen and we all miss her. I took notice of my family during this time, especially the youngest, my granddaughter Jordyn. Jordyn and my Mother had a special relationship so I decided to capture the beautiful moments that shared together and put it in a book.
The illustrations in Where’s Grandma? beautifully complement the story’s emotional depth. How did you collaborate with the illustrator to bring Jordyn’s journey to life?
I had a plan from the beginning as it relates to the storyline, as well as illustrations, so I never strayed from that. I knew what I wanted to do with the book from the beginning. I gave explicit details to the illustrator to work with, and she brought my vision to life. The illustrations turned out just like I wanted them to. They are amazing.
Can you share any advice for parents or caregivers on how to discuss grief and loss with young children using books like yours?
I know it’s tough, but I’d say start with my book, Where’s Grandma? It’s a great way to start up the conversation. Some kids just shut down and don’t want to talk about it. But this book has journals included to assist children on how to deal with the sadness they are feeling. This book can get the healing process going, for the children as well as their parents.
What is the next book that you are working on and when will it be available?
I’m working on a children’s Affirmation book. I hope to have it out by the end of the year or in early 2025.
Author Links: GoodReads | Website | Instagram | Amazon
This book takes you through Jordyn’s journey, as she deals with the loss of someone close and very dear to her. Jordyn’s emotions are up, down and everywhere. Jordyn has so many questions. Where did she go, and what does it mean to transition?
Jordyn looks to her Mommy for guidance on how to deal with her feelings and emotions during this time. Jordyn’s Journeys: Where’s Grandma?, gives you a beautiful view of the close relationship between Jordyn and her great-grandma and brings to light some of the special moments they shared, such as playing games and watching Jordyns’ favorite movie together. It’s a beautifully illustrated children’s book dealing with loss, grief and bereavement, from a child’s perspective.
Jordyn also shares several journals in this book that can be used to assist your child with dealing with their feelings and emotions, as they deal with the loss of a loved one. These journals can help to preserve memories of that special loved one, and help your child as they grieve and deal with their feelings and emotions.
Coco’s Courage: Meeting The Dentist
Coco’s Courage: Meeting The Dentist, by Dr. Shon Shree Lewis, is an engaging and educational children’s book that follows Coco on her first day of kindergarten. Eager to make new friends and learn new things, Coco’s excitement is palpable. However, during lunchtime, she finds a bag of fruit candy on the floor and, with no one around, decides to take it and hide it in her pocket. She brings the candy home and hides it in her closet, planning to indulge in the sweet treats whenever she wants. As Saturday arrives, Coco is thrilled about a sleepover at her grandmother’s house. That night, after her grandmother falls asleep, Coco helps herself to more candy from a jar on the table without asking for permission, intending to add it to her secret stash at home. But soon after consuming the hidden candy, Coco starts experiencing pain in one of her teeth. She confesses to her parents, who then make an appointment with a children’s dentist to check for cavities. Aware of her wrongdoing, Coco decides to come clean to her parents about sneaking the candy. During her dentist appointment, Coco learns she does indeed have a cavity. Despite her mistakes, she feels relieved that God has forgiven her and grateful for the strength and courage to face the dentist.
I thoroughly enjoyed reading about Coco’s journey. She made mistakes by taking the candy from school and her grandmother’s candy jar, but deep down, she knew it was wrong. This story is highly relatable for children and teaches them that actions have consequences. Through Coco’s experience, young readers can understand the importance of honesty and the inevitable consequences of their actions. Parents, grandparents, guardians, and school staff will appreciate the valuable lesson conveyed in this delightful children’s book.
The illustrations, by Viona Betzy and C. Lola, are vibrant and captivating, perfectly complementing the story. The pictures bring the narrative to life, making readers feel as if they are right there with Coco. Each page features beautiful illustrations that enhance the overall reading experience.
Coco’s Courage: Meeting The Dentist is a wonderful story that teaches children the importance of making the right choices to avoid negative consequences. This book serves as an excellent teaching tool, delivering an essential lesson in an engaging and memorable way.
Pages: 28 | ISBN : 978-1667892337
Every Diagnosis is Different
In Welcome To The Bright, you share with readers the challenges you faced as you readjusted to life after surviving a stage 4C colon cancer diagnosis and subsequent treatments. What inspired you to share your story?
As I was recovering, I was looking for resources online on how to cope with not only the physical changes that had happened to my body and the emotional troubles I was having but also for how to reintegrate into my former life. I wasn’t finding any help, so I turned to my fellow cancer survivors for advice. It turned out we all struggled with getting back to our previous careers and lifestyles. It became clear that I was not alone in feeling adrift, and it would be important to write about this phase of the cancer journey to help other people navigate this difficult and unexpected time.
I appreciated the candid nature with which you told your story. What was the hardest thing for you to write about?
For sure the hardest was sexual dysfunction. The doctors had a hard time talking to me about it, my survivor friends weren’t talking about it, and again I just couldn’t find solid resources out there to help me. It was another thing where I thought, “I’m not alone, so if I don’t talk about it, other women will never know it happens.” It was hard to think that my family and friends would read about this very private situation, but on the other hand, there were bound to be plenty of women out there who had survived cancer to find themselves in the same position as me, and they needed to hear my story. That chapter was written for them so that they knew this wasn’t something shameful to hide and ignore, and that they absolutely are not alone.
What is one piece of advice you wish you had been given when you were diagnosed with cancer?
“Don’t compare yourself to anyone else.” Everyone’s story is different, every diagnosis is different, and even the same kinds of cancers are different. It was difficult in my support group to listen to other people’s experiences and then worry that the same thing would happen to me. I had to accept and believe that I am unique, and none of us have an exact same reaction to the drugs so we shouldn’t all expect the same outcome. Just because one person had terrible pain with a surgery didn’t mean that I would. It took me a while to understand this and just keep my eyes on my own path and not get distracted or frightened by other people’s stories.
What is a common misconception you believe most people may have about cancer survivors?
Many people just expected me to jump straight back into my previous life as if nothing had ever happened. As a musician, suddenly everyone was inviting me to rehearsals, and friends wanted to take me out to lunch. There’s a lot of PTSD involved in having cancer, how it manifests is different for everyone. I was nowhere near ready to get back on stage or sit in a restaurant. The life I lived before cancer was foreign to me, and I was on a path to discovering who I was now, post-cancer. I think people (thankfully!) don’t understand what a profound effect cancer has on us, it literally changes our lives in unimaginable ways, and I was trying to discover who I was now, in the aftermath of cancer. I know people were excited to get me back, but I was a changed person and I felt as if I needed them to acknowledge that and learn about the new person standing before them.
Author Links: GoodReads | Facebook | Website | Amazon
She never expected how difficult it would be to transition from colon cancer patient to colon cancer survivor.
Beginning a new regimen of treatments meant to prevent a recurrence, she faced the daunting task of returning to her former life. Plagued with debilitating panic attacks, she turns to nature to find the strength and inspiration she needs to navigate her rocky post-cancer recovery.
Welcome to the Bright chronicles the year after Lisa’s first clear scan and her discovery that the path through the second half of her life is going to be a long and winding road. Becoming a survivor is just the beginning.
LITERARY TITAN 