Blog Archives
A Story of Whoa
A Story of Whoa is a remarkable and inspiring children’s book that centers around the poignant relationship between a young boy named Whoa and his father. Whoa’s deep affection for his dad is juxtaposed with the turmoil of intense emotions stirred within him as they watch the nightly news together. Striving to comprehend the injustices and cruelties portrayed in the world, Whoa initiates a profound conversation with his father, igniting his unwavering determination to effect change. Motivated by this newfound resolve, Whoa embarks on a quest to learn karate, envisioning it as a means to combat injustice, tragedy, and cruelty. Accompanied by his father, they embark on a shared mission to make the world a better place. Ultimately, Whoa discovers that the true path to fighting these battles lies not in martial arts but in demonstrating love and kindness towards others.
Author Chris Corbett artfully addresses the challenges faced by children in today’s world, offering a compelling solution through meaningful father-son dialogues. The book fearlessly tackles sensitive subjects such as homelessness, poverty, and bullying, presenting a framework for parents to engage in discussions about these critical issues with their children. Corbett adeptly navigates complex themes, empowering young readers with a positive and constructive approach to overcoming adversity in the world. The author skillfully sidesteps any endorsement of revenge or vigilante-like behavior, ensuring that the story promotes empathy, understanding, and proactive problem-solving instead. This commendable, balanced approach helps young readers develop a sense of responsibility without instilling negative emotions.
In terms of its relevance to today’s society, A Story of Whoa triumphantly addresses the imperative for parents and children to engage in open conversations about real-world challenges. It underscores the significance of imparting essential life lessons such as empathy, persistence, and courage to the next generation while ensuring that these lessons are conveyed in a sensitive and age-appropriate manner.
Thought-provoking and heartening, A Story of Whoa resonates deeply with both children and parents alike. It serves as an invaluable tool for initiating conversations about the prevalent challenges and injustices within our society, providing a springboard for reflection and understanding. This picture book offers a remarkable opportunity to cultivate dialogue and foster growth, making it a must-read for families seeking to navigate the complexities of our world.
Pages: 40 | ASIN: B0C1VZB28H
From the Earth to Mars: The Surprising History of the Rocket Pioneers Who Launched Humanity Into Space
In his remarkable chronicle From the Earth to Mars, Jeffrey Manber delves into the captivating early annals of rocketry and cosmic exploration, shedding light on an era dominated by the inquisitive minds of engineers, scientists, and entrepreneurs rather than government entities.
Manber commences this exploration by revisiting Jules Verne’s renowned 1865 novel, From the Earth to the Moon, illuminating its profound influence on the pioneering figures of space exploration such as Herman Oberth, a mentor to Wernher von Braun, and the Russian engineer Valentin Glushko. The novel did not merely fuel their curiosity with thrilling narratives of space exploration; it anchored their inspirations in scientifically credible concepts, as Verne was meticulous in maintaining plausibility throughout his novel.
Evidently, early 20th-century luminaries such as the Russian scholar Konstantin Tsiolkovsky faced the arduous task of advocating the feasibility of space travel. Convincing their contemporaries that this was not just a distant possibility but rather an imminent reality was a challenge that demanded significant effort.
However, where some authors may have turned such a history into a dry academic treatise, Manber skillfully steers clear of this pitfall. Instead of immersing the reader in the complex technicalities of the science, he adeptly presents it in a manner that is accessible to the layperson yet avoids any trace of condescension. The narrative primarily weaves the captivating stories of the personalities involved, all while maintaining the primary focus of the book. The infectious enthusiasm Manber exhibits for his subject resonates strongly, sparking curiosity even in readers previously indifferent to space exploration.
Visually, the book further engages the reader with an array of comic-style pages and substantial illustrations, serving to vividly depict the personalities and machines within the narrative and to enhance the visual appeal. The book itself is an aesthetic triumph, with an eye-catching cover design, carefully curated illustrations, and exquisite typesetting contributing to its physical allure.
All in all, From the Earth to Mars is a commendable offering that extends beyond the interests of space enthusiasts to a wider audience. This engrossing read comes with a high recommendation, sure to captivate and enlighten anyone who delves into its pages.
Pages: 104 | ASIN : B0BV9PZP5Q
From High School To Uni
Navigating the transition from high school to university can present a multitude of challenges, from securing one’s first job to managing personal finances and transportation independently. Fortunately, P. J. Dobree-Carey’s From High School to Uni: The Essential Student’s Guide to Moving into University provides a wealth of insightful advice for students and parents alike as they embark on this pivotal life stage. This comprehensive guide is invaluable, covering topics from budget-friendly healthy eating to studying abroad, making it an ideal handbook for starting college and commencing young adulthood.
This guidebook is structured into easy-to-digest chapters that start from the fundamentals of organization, culminating in a “practice week” designed to simulate life independently. Authored by a mother with vast experience, the book offers accessible counsel on an array of subjects, including finances, securing one’s first accommodation, and the basics of safety and friendship. While the chapter on developing new relationships and dealing with romantic partners may prove slightly blush-worthy for some, the majority of the content is family-friendly and full of sound advice suitable for high schoolers and beyond.
While it has been crafted with a UK and European audience in mind, the guide can be beneficial for readers in the United States as well. As a reader, I was intrigued by the cultural nuances and divergences between countries, offering a unique glimpse into the process of transitioning to university life in Europe. Dobree-Carey further enhances the guide’s usability by including numerous practical checklists, aiding in maintaining order as one navigates the onset of independent adulthood.
This guide stands out for its user-friendly nature, commendable financial advice, and for providing a gentle initiation into a potentially overwhelming life phase. From High School to Uni: The Essential Student’s Guide to Moving into University is an excellent resource for mature readers on the cusp of a new life chapter. It offers a sophisticated introduction to the intricate process of transitioning to adult student life.
Pages: 139 | ASIN : B0B8HZKK76
This Is A Book Of Hope
The Remarkable Reefs of Cuba is a captivating exploration into the thriving coral ecosystems within Cuba’s waters, offering a beacon of hope in the face of global marine devastation. Why was this an important book for you to write?
Most important, this is a book of hope. The situation for coral reefs — like so many treasured ecosystems on Earth — is dire. There are estimates we have lost up to half of the world’s coral reefs and some questioning whether the reefs that remain can endure until the end of the century. There is a general perception that climate change alone is killing our reefs, so the situation seems helpless to many. However, there are, in fact, many factors that affect the health of coral reefs that are locally-caused. That means there are actions we can take immediately that will help coral reefs be more resilient to climate change. I also felt it was important to write this book to document a long and fruitful history of collaboration between U.S. and Cuban scientists, working across ever-changing political winds, with marine science and conservation held up as one of the best examples of collaboration between the two countries. Cuba’s unique history also figures prominently in this book, much of being an utter mystery to most.
As a marine scientist, what was the most surprising discovery you made about the reefs of Cuba that differed from other coral ecosystems around the world?
After seeing nothing but dead and dying reefs in the Caribbean for decades, it was a profound shock to come face-to-face with coral reefs that appeared even healthier than those I fell in love with in the Florida Keys when I was a teenager. (Tragically the reefs of the Florida Keys are now 80 to 90 percent dead.) It has also been an important discovery that the reasons Cuba’s coral reefs are so healthy — corals that are sitting in the same hot water as degraded reefs — rest in local factors (like fishing, nutrient pollution, etc.) that we can control.
How can we, as individuals, contribute effectively towards the conservation of coral reefs?
Of course, taking action against climate change — through changes in our own lives, through advocacy or otherwise — is critically important. But there are things we can do, literally in our own backyards, that can make an enormous difference. For example, using less fertilizer is important as it inevitably runs into streams, rivers, and ultimately the oceans, where it fuels the growth of algae which can smother coral reefs. Reducing overfishing is critical as many fish are important to coral reefs, grazing algae and keeping them clean. Ask questions of your server at the restaurant or of your grocer. Where are the fish from, how were they caught, and are they sustainable? Finally, support organizations in the fight to save coral reefs. I am biased, of course. The nonprofit organization I founded and run, Ocean Doctor (https://oceandoctor.org), is one of the leaders in coral reef conservation, especially in Cuba. There are many other worthy organizations as well, of course.
What is the next book that you are working on, and when will it be available?
I’m working on something that hasn’t yet been green-lighted, but I’m hopeful it will be. I can’t divulge too much at this point, but it deals with a tragic shipwreck with terrible consequences. I’m hoping it will be on the shelves in 2025.
Author Links: GoodReads | Twitter | Facebook | Website
After years and years of watching reefs deteriorate, Guggenheim was astonished to come face-to-face with Cuba’s remarkably healthy coral reefs overflowing with fish and other marine life. The Remarkable Reefs of Cuba reveals the hidden potential that Cuba’s reefs may contain for the reefs of the world.
While the past 60 years have seen the worst decline in ocean health in human history, Cuba’s oceans and coral reefs remain remarkably healthy, a living laboratory never-before-seen by this generation of scientists. Which begs the question: why are Cuba’s ocean waters so healthy? The answer is deeply intertwined with the country’s extraordinary and singularly unique history, from its dramatic political past to its world-class environmental protections influenced by an unlikely partner, Captain Jacques-Yves Cousteau.
This buoyant book tells the story of the demise of the world’s ocean ecosystems, the hard work of those desperately trying to save it, and an unexpected beacon of hope from an island full of mystery and surprises.
The Raindrop
Author J.B. Auchter takes young readers on a fun and inspirational adventure following the journey of a raindrop as it begins its life in a cloud. Its only wish is to make others happy, but it doesn’t know how it will do that as a tiny raindrop. The raindrop breaks away from the cloud and sails down to earth. On its way, it encounters a variety of things, creatures, and people. How will it find a way to bring joy to others?
The Raindrop is indeed a standout within the realm of children’s literature. Its key message encourages readers to appreciate that size does not limit the potential for significant impact. The beautiful rhyming scheme, prevalent throughout the narrative, is designed to effortlessly captivate and hold young children’s attention, utilizing language that is simple yet engaging.
Complementing the narrative are the captivating illustrations that echo the enchanting tone of the book. The raindrop is depicted with endearing emotion and eyes that sparkle with vitality, adding depth and personality to our small protagonist. Young readers are sure to relish following along as the raindrop interacts with a variety of objects and people.
The Raindrop delivers a heartwarming message that can resonate with young children who may sometimes feel too small to make a difference. The story beautifully demonstrates that with the right amount of aspiration and initiative, anyone can spread joy and realize their dreams. This charming book is an exemplary testament to the fact that greatness can indeed originate from the smallest of things.
Pages: 26 | ASIN : B0BDBZWBT6
The Next Generation Of Airline Pilots
The Airline Transition Manual is an insightful look at the airline industry and helps readers understand and navigate the industry if they are pursuing a career in aviation. Why was this an important book for you to write?
We felt this book was a vital piece of mentoring the next generation of airline pilots who are experiencing never before seen career opportunities at a very early stage. In this accelerated time frame to go from student to professional pilot, every last resource needs to be provided so these pilots can hit the ground running on day one at their airline. While a lot of focus in the industry has been on the physical aspect of flying, there is a complete other side to the industry that deals with how pilots become effective employees, and steer clear of trouble. Mentorship is often about teaching those who come after you the lessons you had to learn the hard way, or from your own mentor who wanted to see you succeed. While this book won’t replace the invaluable experience of having a real-life mentor in the field, it will help propel a new pilot’s perspective on their chosen craft and see them counted as a professional in far shorter time than they would if they had to learn some lessons the “hard way.”
How much research did you undertake for this book and how much time did it take to put it all together?
Much of this book was outlined, written, and edited from the author’s decades of experience in the aviation industry. That said, the writing process, fact checking, data collection, source citation, and accuracy checking consumed a majority of the eight months it took us to turn around a first draft that was field tested with aviation and airline experts. That process saw a complete rewrite of the book to broaden the audience and add in additional content. From start to finish, our book took a year and four months to complete.
What is a common misconception you feel people have about working for the airline industry?
Bias and misconceptions are rampant in any industry. When you add in the mystery of aviation and airline operations, there is a ten-fold increase. That leads to some generalizations and misconceptions about pilots and airline staff that at times is unfair and other times, borderline rude. The misconception that airline crews have a “significant other” in every city is completely false and has caused strain in many relationships. Divorce rates are higher in aviation because of the amount of travel and general lack of understanding of what the job is and why it seems as though we may not do anything for hours at a time while other times we are too busy to answer the phone. This leads to breakdowns in communication which fracture the relationship over time. That is one reason we felt it incredibly important to add in the spouse chapter. We also encourage everyone with an interest in the airline world to read the book.
What is one thing you hope readers take away from your book?
No matter if the reader is a prospective pilot, a parent of a pilot, a spouse of a pilot, someone within the airline industry, or is a member of the traveling public, we hope that this book can help reveal some of the mystery of what has generally been known as a career field shrouded in secrecy and a degree of mysticism. While we certainly hope our target audience, the upcoming pilot, will find value in this manual for years to come, anyone with an interest or curiosity in airlines and aviation will probably find this book an incredibly interesting revelation about an industry that has long been misunderstood and often looked at in wonder.
Author Links: Twitter | Facebook | Website
The Remarkable Reefs Of Cuba: Hopeful Stories From the Ocean Doctor
In The Remarkable Reefs of Cuba, marine scientist Dr. David E. Guggenheim presents a captivating and thought-provoking account of the worldwide devastation of coral reefs while offering a ray of hope through his remarkable discovery of thriving reefs in Cuba. Through artful storytelling, Guggenheim illuminates the decline of global ocean ecosystems and the unwavering efforts of conservationists dedicated to their preservation.
One aspect that truly resonated with me was the author’s inclusion of his firsthand experiences and expertise in marine science, which lends credibility and engages readers on a personal level. Guggenheim skillfully weaves scientific facts, historical context, and captivating personal anecdotes together, resulting in a highly accessible narrative that appeals to readers from all walks of life. Moreover, the author adeptly explores the various factors contributing to the exceptional health of Cuba’s reefs, shedding light on the country’s unique historical trajectory and its world-class environmental protections. The inclusion of Captain Cousteau’s influence adds a captivating layer to the narrative, underscoring the significance of collaboration and unlikely partnerships in the realm of conservation efforts.
Guggenheim’s ability to vividly and clearly convey information is commendable, as his writing transports readers alongside him on his explorations of the reefs. Not only does the author provide an educational experience, but his writing is also evocative and enthralling, leaving readers in constant anticipation. The intriguing and vibrant stories he shares are a testament to his expertise and experiences as a marine scientist, leaving readers eager to delve into more of his insightful work. Through his compelling prose, Guggenheim effectively conveys the dire consequences of coral reef loss, touching on the immense impact on biodiversity and the staggering economic losses incurred globally. The urgency to protect and restore these fragile ecosystems becomes palpable through his words.
The author’s ardent passion for marine conservation shines brightly throughout the book, instilling a profound sense of responsibility within readers and compelling them to join the collective efforts aimed at safeguarding our seas. Serving as a poignant wake-up call, the book reminds us of the pivotal role played by coral reefs in supporting diverse marine life and sustaining coastal communities.
The Remarkable Reefs Of Cuba: Hopeful Stories From the Ocean Doctor offers a glimmer of hope amidst the disheartening reality of coral reef decline. The Remarkable Reefs of Cuba is an indispensable read for anyone with an interest in marine conservation and environmental history or those seeking inspiration to protect our oceans for future generations.
Pages: 264 | ASIN: B0BQTJ34J7
A Passion For Trivia
1000 Fun Facts for Immature Adults: Random Trivia and Weird Truths You Should Know is a diverse collection of facts that will keep readers fascinated and entertained. What inspired you to put this collection of information together?
I have a passion for trivia. As far as I can remember, before I could even read, I’ve always loved learning and sharing the unexpected, unbelievable, and uncanny things I saw on the television, and later read in books.
Back in elementary, I’d always order Ripley’s Believe It or Not! and Guinness World Records books when Scholastic sent its catalogs to my school. The Uncle John’s Bathroom Reader series is also a great source of inspiration.
The reason why I started writing my own trivia book is nothing spectacular. One drunken summer day at the family barbecue, I told my family I wanted to write a book, as I always did when inebriated, and someone told me to stop saying for the nth time that I want to write a book and to actually do it; so I finally did.
Once the book was made, I brought an author copy to the usual family BBQ. As soon as I arrived, I walked up to that blessed someone with a big cheeky grin and slapped it hard on the table they were sitting at, right in front of them, cover side up.
It was all in good fun. Everyone was supportive and ordered a few copies for themselves later on, including them.
How much research did you undertake for this book, and how much time did it take to put it all together?
An obscene amount of research went into this little passion project of mine. I had to sift through thousands upon thousands of facts. They couldn’t already be in other books, they had to be accurate and up-to-date, and most importantly, they had to be interesting and I had to deliver them in an entertaining and concise way. It was much more difficult than you’d expect.
It took me a year and a half to write and publish the book. Every little sliver of free time I had between working crazy hours to put food on the table, keeping my marriage afloat, and staying sane throughout the pandemic. Though that sanity part can be debated.
I had no days off and there were so many times I wanted to quit, telling myself that it sucks and that it will never be complete. Well, I sure showed me!
What was one fact you discovered when writing this book that interested you the most?
I love the absurd and unexpected and there were so many of them; so I will cheat and give you two. There’s the one about how in the small town of Yoro, Honduras, fish and frogs fall from the sky, like some kind of biblical plague, multiple times a year. The other fact, that cracks me up, is that in Denmark, if you’re not married by the age of 25, your friends and family will tie you to a post and throw cinnamon powder at you. Then if you’re still single by 30, they pelt you with pepper. I hope that tradition never dies.
My family loved that one. It’s a good thing I’m married.
Will you write more books of random facts to help readers increase their trivia skills?
Definitely! I’m not yet in a position where I can afford to write full-time, so it will take a while, but readers can count on Volume 2 and a Japan trivia book to come out eventually. Better late than never, right?
Author Links: Amazon | GoodReads
Did you know that the average adult produces enough saliva in their lifetime to fill two swimming pools?
Or that there’s a small town in Central America where fish literally fall from the sky every year without fail?
In today’s digital age, what’s life without selfies? Well, in the 1800s, getting a good shot in a snap was unheard of. Since being photographed back then would take hours, people had to wear back braces just to keep still.
Imagine adding these fun facts – and hundreds more – to your arsenal. They can be quite handy when you want to put an end to that excruciating awkard silence in social gatherings, stand out from the rest of your colleagues in the office, or simply dazzle your date.
After all, serving an earful of trivia just may be the quickest way to someone’s heart – as this book would tell you, hearing is your fastest sense with a near-instant response time of 0.05 seconds.
What’s more, knowing little tidbits of mind-blowing information may be just what you need to level up your “small talk” game.
At the very least, you can have hours and hours of highly entertaining conversations – just add a little dose of fascinating facts and you’re good to go!
Inside, here is just a small fraction of what you will discover:
How to sound like a genius without having to do the hard work
Seriously fun facts that will give your #adulting life a boost – who says being a grown-up has to be boring?
Useful information that just may save your life… for instance, discover which fruits are laced with cyanide!
Obscure facts that will help you conquer trivia game night – leave your opponents eating your dust every single time
100+ things to know about different cultures around the world – find out unique quirks and blend in with the locals wherever you go
A treasure trove of cool facts, funny jokes, and even funnier drawings in every single chapter
The secret to Marilyn Monroe’s famous hourglass figure – what did she eat every single morning to maintain her svelte physique?
And much more.
Remember when you were a kid and that amazing feeling you had whenever you found out something new?
There’s no stopping you from rekindling that simple joy of discovery, that wide-eyed curiosity, and that sense of childlike wonder… no matter what age you’re at.
Whether you’re into facts that sound too unbelievable (but are definitely true) or random bits about science, history, food, celebrities, your body, and the universe – or perhaps you’re just in need of a lifeline for long trips and family reunions – this book has got you covered.
LITERARY TITAN 