Blog Archives
The Fragility of Human Nature
Perpetual Limitations follows a young paraplegic, hard-of-hearing, and visually impaired woman who enters a portal to a realm where she is gifted newfound abilities and embarks on a quest of self-discovery while confronting her past. What was the inspiration for the setup of your story?
That’s an interesting question! I first started drafting ideas for Perpetual Limitations by thinking about the power of free will and faith and the opportunities it offers towards implementing new possibilities. I realised that there is not much literature out there about marginalised people, particularly about individuals with disabilities, so I wanted to create a story that amplifies their struggles and experiences, as well as comparing their experiences with able-bodied citizens to reinforce the fact that suffering is a universal element of being human.
Samira may have transformed externally in this new realm and granted abilities to see, hear, and walk despite previously being deprived of them; yet, internally she still feels insecure and conflicted, which signifies the deep wounds that trauma can impose upon individuals, which ought to be addressed in order to fully heal. Therefore, Perpetual Limitations is about transcending above the restraints that society places on marginalised individuals to eradicate prejudice and discrimination.
I found Samira to be a very well-written and in-depth character. What inspired her and her emotional turmoil throughout the story?
Samira represents my teenage self, and her struggles towards reaching acceptance of the outside world, whilst fitting in despite being “different,” also resonates with my own personal challenges towards figuring out my own identity, and most importantly, discovering self-acceptance that is associated with all my flaws and anxieties.
When I was creating Samira, I wanted her to represent marginalization and the realistic circumstances of people who suffer from disabilities and invisible wounds. Samira is a character to whom everyone can relate, and I believe that her bitterness, misanthropy, and emotional turmoil reflect the fragility of human nature and how we’re all vulnerable in some way, but rather than letting it bring us down, connecting with others and comprehending their struggles in a new light is actually rather uplifting. Therefore, I feel as though Samira’s frustration emphasises the very essence of being human, as we cannot always be satisfied with what we have, but we can also discover the courage to resolve these problems, which is what the protagonist aims to do throughout her journey of self-discovery.
What were some themes that were important for you to explore in this book?
I felt the need to explore human vulnerability as well as spiritual enlightenment through gaining resilience and hope. Hope is a predominant theme throughout the novel as it’s the force that drives Samira throughout her journey. In fact, all of the characters lose and gain hope in one way or another, and I believe that regarding hope as a universal attribute is necessary towards enforcing justice and spreading compassion throughout our lives. The book also explores the significance of friendship and unconditional love, particularly throughout our darkest moments.
What is the next book you are working on, and when can we expect it to be available?
My next book will be on Perfection, which entails a society where no one is capable of doing wrong, including no lying, cheating, or stealing, and everything is seemingly fair. The book’s intention is to question the significance of free will and its capability of functioning in an idealistic world without issues. It will probably be out in about 2-3 years’ time, which is quite far away, but it should be worth the wait!
Author Links: X (Twitter) | Website
In a world where physical limitations often overshadow the depths of the human spirit, Samira stands as a beacon of resilience. Born paraplegic, hard of hearing and visually impaired, Samira has always felt the sting of being regarded as different. Yet within her, a fierce longing for adventure and liberation burns brightly. As she navigates a life defined by adversity, she encounters the enigmatic Sage, who opens a portal to a realm beyond her wildest imaginings. Here, Samira is gifted with newfound abilities – sight, strength and a profound connection to nature that transcend her previous constraints. But as she grapples with her extraordinary transformation, she is confronted with the harsh realities of her past and the haunting spectre of her own doubts. The Perpetual Limitations is a gripping journey of self-discovery, exploring the intersections of physical limitations and the boundless potential of the human spirit.
Barely Visible: Mothering a Son Through His Misunderstood Autism
Kathleen Somers’ Barely Visible is a raw and often gut-wrenching memoir that tells the story of her journey as a mother navigating the heartbreaking loss of a daughter and the challenging road of raising a son with autism. The book begins with a detailed account of the late-term abortion she and her husband chose after discovering a severe chromosomal disorder in their unborn child. What follows is the story of their second chance at parenthood, a son, Jack, whose development is anything but typical, and whose autism remains invisible to many who interact with him. With honesty and grit, Somers invites readers into the daily struggles, small wins, crushing doubts, and fierce love that shape her life as a mother.
The writing is plainspoken and real, never dressing up the pain or dressing down the joy. Somers doesn’t flinch when describing her darkest moments and emotions like grief, rage, and guilt, but she also doesn’t wallow. Her voice is steady and direct. What I liked was her description of being caught in a kind of no-man’s-land with Jack: not disabled “enough” for sympathy, not neurotypical enough to be understood. That tension runs through the whole book, and it’s heartbreaking. She captures the loneliness of parenting a child who doesn’t fit the mold and the silent battles she fights in parking lots, classrooms, and her own mind.
What I appreciated most was that this isn’t a story wrapped up with a bow. Somers doesn’t pretend to have all the answers. She admits to losing her temper, to doubting her decisions, to questioning herself constantly. But she also shows up for her son, over and over again, even when it’s hard, even when it’s thankless. There’s a quiet bravery in that. And her reflections on how people perceive disability, how a child’s challenges are judged based on how visible they are, stayed with me. She writes with a dry wit at times that cuts through the heaviness, which I found refreshing and relatable.
I would recommend Barely Visible to any parent, especially those who feel like they’re walking a path they didn’t expect. If you’ve ever struggled to make sense of a diagnosis, to advocate for a child who’s misunderstood, or to stay afloat when life doesn’t look the way you thought it would, this book will speak to you. It’s not just about autism or motherhood or grief. It’s about resilience and love and the messy, beautiful, brutal work of showing up.
Pages: 312 | ISBN : 978-1647428822
A Diagnosis Is Never the End
Lexi and the Super Chair is the empowering story of a young girl whose life is changed by paralysis, but who rediscovers freedom, adventure, and joy through a magical power chair and an unbreakable spirit. Why was this an important book for you to write?
I actually became fully paralyzed in 2014 when I was 21 years old. I now can only move my head a little, and I have to use a ventilator to breathe. In the first couple years of my journey through paralysis, I struggled greatly with depression and grief. But as my journey has continued, I have become a happy and successful individual, not in spite of, but in some ways because of my paralysis.
Needless to say, I understand the struggle of physical disability. I’ve always been a lover of children, and when I imagine kids in this situation, or in other situations involving disabilities or diseases, I know some of them must struggle as well. So I wanted to write this book for several reasons, chief among them to give a boost and hope to kids with disabilities and diseases, to help them and their families realize that a diagnosis is never the end of someone’s story, but that you can still achieve great things no matter what.
My grand scheme is to have this book freely available in hospitals and rehab centers for children and their families who need it most.
How did you approach writing about disability in a way that’s honest yet hopeful for young readers?
Personal experience had a lot to do with how I wrote the book. But I also know that children are endlessly curious and incredibly strong. When kids come up to me, usually somewhat shyly at first, I make sure to tell them the truth of my situation. They always take it surprisingly well and ask a million questions if their parents don’t steal them away too quickly! I never want to shy away from the truth with them, but being a hopeful person myself, I don’t want them to feel bad for me, either. From this attitude sprang my approach to writing this story.
What do you hope children, both with and without disabilities, take away from Lexi’s story?
I love that you mentioned children without disabilities as well as those with them because they are an important part of the audience I’m trying to reach, as well. But the messages are essentially the same for both kinds of kids: there is always hope, no matter the situation. I want children to be happy being themselves, I want them to be able to take pride in their achievements, and I want them to be empathetic and understanding of those in situations differing from their own. That is my hope for Lexi’s story.
When and where will the book be available?
I’m still searching for a publisher, but you’ll be the first to know when I find one! I will include here my website, Instagram, and Facebook page so that you can stay up-to-date with Lexi and her story.
Author Links: Facebook | Website | Instagram
Good Looking
Lucy May Lennox’s Good Looking presents a captivating narrative that blends the elements of a coming-of-age romance with a unique twist. Set against the backdrop of a Midwestern university in the 1990s, the story follows identical twins, Nick and Nate, along with Nick’s love interest Abby, as they navigate the complexities of youth and relationships. What sets this tale apart is the compelling dynamic between the characters, particularly as the twins, both blind, navigate their lives alongside Abby, who is a devotee—a person sexually attracted to disability.
From the intimate confines of late-night study sessions to the adventurous chaos of road trips, Lennox paints a vivid picture of their world, filled with quirky living arrangements and tangled love affairs. Through her skillful prose, Lennox creates a narrative that resonates with readers, rich in relatable experiences while maintaining a perfect balance between emotional depth and suspenseful twists.
One of the novel’s strengths lies in its diverse cast of characters and engaging subplots, allowing Lennox to explore themes of identity and belonging with nuance and depth. Each character’s journey towards self-discovery and acceptance is intricately woven, leaving a lasting impression on the reader. While the romantic tension between Nick and Abby propels much of the story forward, it is the nuanced relationship between the twin brothers that truly shines. Lennox delicately navigates their evolving dynamic, marked by unspoken conversations and profound connections, celebrating their individual journeys towards embracing their identities and redefining their relationship with each other and those around them.
Good Looking offers a refreshing and nuanced portrayal of disability, challenging stereotypes and offering a heartfelt exploration of personal growth and resilience. Lennox’s masterful storytelling leaves a lasting impact, inviting readers to ponder the intricacies of the human experience long after the final page is turned.
Pages: 321 | ASIN : B0C99PRDBF
Magical Atmosphere
Whispers in the Breeze follows the mystery of the missing kings of the Wangoorie tribe and their fight to keep evil from taking over the tribe. What was the initial idea behind this story, and how did that transform as you were writing the novel?
The idea that I had to write Whispers in the Breeze was one of many reasons. It was always going to be a narrative with a lot of twists and turns and the unexpected with a splash of mystery. I wanted to express my ideas on how to be resilient and have the faith and strength to overcome any obstacles that life has thrown at you. Another is to educate in a positive way on how society is judgemental with the slightest imperfection in people who have a disability. Acceptance of yourself and a strong will to thrive and be successful in all that you do was a key message. Also having faith and love from your family is the most powerful weapon one has, and with that support, you can conquer the world.
Whispers started out with a boy with a disability in mind. Then I thought about what lessons he could learn and what troubles he could find himself in. The story was built around his character. While I worked in the primary school, I used my knowledge from one of our school’s teaching tools that helped build up students’ confidence. So I wanted to share that with others. The thoughts of good versus evil added to the storyline as well as a love story between the parents and the bond they shared as a family. Justice also played a huge part in the outcome for the family and their tribe. I first wanted to write 3 books. The first was all about Zengie and his mother Mallee. The second one was about his Father Wango and the third was about the three of them together. In the end, I changed it to three parts.
What was the inspiration for the culture of your characters? Is it modeled after any particular society?
The inspiration for the culture of the characters was formed in my mind by the beauty of the jungles and rainforests. The magical atmosphere of mists and the aromas of moist foliage reminded me of my childhood growing up near the mountains and the time we played as children hiding in the giant trees and vines of the rainforest. The cold trickling streams and waterfalls with the crisp breezes also became part of the story. I remember my imagination used to run wild with fairies and magical beings while in the mountains, also the eeriness of silence when you wandered away from the others and how scary thoughts would take over reality. This also formed part of the emotions in the characters. I modelled my tribes on a mixture of African tribes and their spiritual and religious beliefs as well as my own.
What were some themes that were important for you to explore in this book?
The important themes in the book were. Love, honour, loyalty, compassion, respect, resilience, and empathy. A think ‘outside the box’ and follow your heart and dreams. Life is full of highs and lows and how you deal with these become the person you are.
What is the next book that you are working on, and when will it be available?
Currently, I am working on the next book called Shifting Sands. It is a continuing story of the Wangoorie people. This time the story is about Zengie’s sister Veelah and her struggles with depression and anxiety as she struggles with the loss of her mother Mallee and her inner self doubts as her psychic abilities grow stronger and more erratic. I don’t know how long it will take to write, but it is a work in progress.
Author Links: Goodreads | Facebook | Website | Amazon
When ancient traditions are broken, spirits are called upon. The ancestors are furious as their deep slumber is disturbed. To their despair, chaos, mayhem, and unjust, greet them on their resurrection. When the two rightful heirs mysteriously disappear, the scales of justice and order are off balance and unpredictable.
Wango and his son Zengie are of royal blood, destined to join the line of successors as their forefathers before them.
Wango and his wife Mallee were the protectors of Zengie and the Wangoorie tribe. Now, Mallee is alone, vulnerable, and in danger. Will she find strength and gain her freedom from the manipulative clutches of the evil Zulu?
Follow this intriguing mystery as trust is shattered and lives are ruined. Survival is the key to unlocking the past and building a future, where the foundations of the Wangoorie tribe depend on the survival of humanity.
Will balance and stability return to reclaim the peace and harmony of the Wangoorie people? Read on, and solve the mystery of the missing kings.
I Keep Fighting
Doug Osborne Does Not Quit tells of your experiences refusing to live behind the label of disabled and your journey to finding a work-from-job and buying your first home. Why was it important to share your story?
There were two related stories I wanted to share, captured by my book’s title and subtitle.
The title is named after the words on my banner, which reminds me to keep fighting no matter how many times I get knocked down and feel like quitting. The title story is about my banner and my ongoing mission of getting a job and going off disability.
I share my banner story to inspire others to keep fighting until they achieve their goals, and to inspire myself to stay true to my banner. Prior to publishing it in a book, I shared it in various forms with everyone I know and thousands of people I don’t know. The most widespread edition is a one-minute video with the caption: “Hi, my name is on my banner, and I want the world to hear me yell NOT TODAY!” “Not today” is what I say to my banner twice a day: quietly as my morning prayer, and at the end of the day, with authority, because I did not quit today!
My book begins and ends with my banner. It is the most powerful version of this story yet, accentuated by what goes on in between.
The middle and bulk of my book follow the subtitle plot, The House Behind My Banner, which begins shortly after the start of my mission. This is the first time I’ve publicly shared my account of the battle to buy my first house so I could continue my mission. More importantly, this story is about the fight to overcome my disability, getting past those who blocked my path, and in the process learning that I am actually far from disabled. The House Behind My Banner teaches valuable lessons, and I particularly enjoyed recalling the seminal moments of my life described in “Revenge of the Nerd,” “Redemption,” and “Home.”
What were some ideas that were important for you to share in this book?
Disability should not be confused with inability. For some people like me, to be or not to be disabled is a choice and not a diagnosis. For others with autism or related cognitive disorders, being “neurodivergent” instead of “neurotypical” is not a bad thing. For everyone, people should treat other people with respect, regardless of their current occupation or disability status.
What is a common misconception you feel people have about living with a disability?
I honestly don’t know which misconceptions are common, so I’ll just state my opinion that any conception about living with a disability is a misconception. One of the main points of my book is that people should not judge or underestimate anyone because of that d-word.
What is one thing you hope readers take away from your story?
Philip Van Heusen for Readers’ Favorite summed it up as well as I could: “stop saying you can’t and believe that you can.” If you simply believe that you can, you might be surprised at what you can do.
This is the theme of a short chapter of my book, “Can I Walk Through Walls?” While I didn’t really suspect that I could walk through walls, the point is you should not assume you can’t do something until you have tried to do it. So, why not give it a shot? The worst that can happen is you fail, but even that should not discourage you.
Doug Osborne Does Not Quit is about believing in yourself, while the sequel, Not Today!, will be about trying and failing over and over and over again until you finally succeed.
Author Links: GoodReads | Facebook | Website
In 2021, I made my choice and discovered that I am actually far from disabled. In 2023, I wrote a book about my journey.
Hi, my name is on my banner. I’m a software engineer on disability, diagnosed with autism, ADHD, and at times anxiety and depression. At the start of 2021, I stopped using these as an excuse and began my mission of getting a work-from-home-job and going off disability. Unfortunately, my mission was delayed because my landlord, Bob, wanted to sell the house I was renting.
After getting pre-approved for a mortgage, I found a great place for me to continue my mission: a four-season vacation home in Summit, NY. While I was trying to buy my dream house, Bob, two attorneys, and a loan officer tried to bully me and jeopardized my home purchase, but they all underestimated me. Buying my first house was far from easy, but I did not quit and the day I closed on this house was the best of my life so far.
As of May 2023, I’ve still yet to complete my mission, even though I’ve interviewed with some 30 companies since I hung my banner. But like I had to in order to buy my first house, I am not about to quit fighting until I finally succeed.
Doug Osborne DOES NOT QUIT
In Doug Osborne’s candid autobiographical memoir, readers are drawn into the throes of an unexpected conflict borne out of an abrupt ultimatum issued by his landlord: purchase your current dwelling or relinquish it. This unforeseen predicament throws a wrench into Osborne’s aspirations: landing his dream job and transitioning away from disability benefits. Nevertheless, the landlord’s antagonistic role underscores an encouraging saga of tenacity and resilience.
Osborne, wrestling with anxiety, depression, and the challenges associated with autism and ADHD, confronts life’s adversities without a hint of reluctance. Why? The answer is in the title itself: Doug Osborne Does Not Quit. While teeming with humor and an uplifting spirit, this memoir had me shedding tears throughout my reading journey. As a reader with a disability, I found Osborne’s frank portrayal of his continual tribulations with his landlord a reflective mirror of my own experiences.
It was a breath of fresh air to encounter a narrative that presents neurodivergent individuals actively engaging in life instead of being sequestered within their communities, a common theme in many YA novels. Osborne’s recounting of his vexing ordeal stirred deep empathy within me, knowing all too well the emotional toll such a situation can have. Yet, despite its emotional intensity, the memoir’s melancholy is beautifully counterbalanced by the fervor with which Osborne relates his story.
Osborne’s straightforward narrative style imbues the memoir with a sense of intimacy and conversational ease. Rather than courting his readers’ admiration with excessive witticisms or theatricality, Osborne recounts his experiences with an honest, unadorned approach. Despite its brevity, the memoir is brimming with poignant content and profound insights.
Doug Osborne Does Not Quit will retain a permanent spot on my bookshelf, a testament to the adversities we can triumph over. This memoir is a remarkable and multifaceted work from a fellow neurodivergent individual, resonating deeply as a sincere and heartfelt narrative.
Pages: 73 | ASIN : B0BZN3X3ZC
A Sibling’s Guide To Autism
A Sibling’s Guide To Autism is an educational children’s book written in the form of an essay, or journal entry of sorts, where the author is explaining to her younger sibling what it is like to have an older sibling with autism. I don’t live with anyone that has autism so I, like her younger sibling, am learning about these things for the first time through this wonderfully illustrated book. This picture book is informative as well as enlightening and serves as a wonderful educational resource on the subject.
Author Irene Kim shares her experiences living with a sibling with autism. It sounds tough, but she also makes a point to say that it is rewarding in the end. The book uses a beautiful modern expressionist art style throughout the book to support the ideas presented on each page. Each piece of art and page is focused on an idea that takes on a different and more powerful meaning when you are living with someone with autism, like: pace, volume, people, and attachment. The section about ‘Attachment’ was the most impactful to me. I come to realize that living with someone with autism makes you mature and grow in ways that takes other people decades.
A Sibling’s Guide To Autism is a poignant children’s book that illuminates the up and downs that come with raising a child with autism. This is a fantastic picture book for teachers, parents, and children that are about to have someone with autism in their lives. This will be helpful in understanding that, while it will be difficult, it will also be rewarding, and author Irene Kim captures that in a brilliant way.
Pages: 17 | ASIN: B094HB7338
LITERARY TITAN 