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A Misunderstood and Misrepresented Mushroom
What was the idea, or spark, that first set off the need to write Fly Agaric: A Compendium of History, Pharmacology, Mythology, & Exploration?
There were really two sparks that gave life to this book. The first spark was to produce the book that I had always wanted. When I first developed an interest in this mushroom as a teenager there was very little written about the mushroom that was accessible and the articles and books that were available were frequently vague on a number of important points. I had always wished I could find something that was comprehensive and that could provide a solid background on the history, pharmacology, and mythology surrounding this mushroom. The second spark was the realization that in the decades since I first developed an interest in the Fly Agaric there remained an incredible vacuum in the literature on this mushroom. Thus, the goal of producing the book was to simultaneously fill this vacuum and to produce the book that I had always wanted.
What was the collaboration process like with so many people contributing to this book?
The collaboration aspect was one of the thrilling elements of putting this book together. There were challenges in selecting and contacting the authors and researchers that I wanted to participate but I couldn’t be happier with the selection of individuals who agreed to contribute to this book. Some of the contributors had previously published their work elsewhere, but many of these pieces had been out of print for years or decades and were difficult for readers to find. This provided an opportunity to re-introduce readers to some very interesting literature on this mushroom. It was also great to work with authors on new works, to discuss topics, and lay-outs, and to take a more active editorial role. There were also several chapters that I co-authored, and I feel honored to have had the opportunity to work with each of these individuals as a collaborator.
What is one thing about Fly Agaric that you think is misrepresented in the media?
One thing the media is frequently guilty of is using images of the Fly Agaric (Amanita muscaria) in articles about Psilocybe mushrooms, frequently referred to as “magic” mushrooms. While the Fly Agaric is also psychoactive it is quite distinct from Psilocybe mushrooms, both in its appearance and in its pharmacology. There is potential for this misrepresentation to lead to confusion among readers, which could lead to unforeseen and potentially harmful consequences.
What is the next book that you are working on and when will it be available?
There are no books currently in the works though I am presently working on several research articles related to the Fly Agaric, which will likely be published within the next two years.
Author Links: GoodReads | Facebook | Website
How to recognize and identify over a dozen types of psychoactive Amanita species, subspecies, and varieties occurring in North America, and how to distinguish them from look-alikes.What psychoactive and other active compounds are found in psychoactive Amanitas, and how they affect the mind and body.The differences between the effects and experiences produced by psychoactive Amanitas and psychedelic Psilocybe mushrooms.How the Fly Agaric can be detoxified and safely prepared for the dinner table.The history of medicinal and homeopathic use of the Fly Agaric.How the Fly Agaric can be used topically and internally to treat conditions such as pain, inflammation, insomnia, and anxiety.Theories regarding the historical and religious use of psychoactive Amanitas around the world based on archaeological, folkloric, and other evidence.
The Life Of Active Children
Ava and the Last Bird follows a young girl who watches over a baby bird when it falls from its nest and tries to entertain it. Where did the idea for this book come from and how did it develop over time?
Many real-life events and observations have inspired the story “Ava and the Last Bird.” In my free time in the middle of nature, I watch a lot of birds. They are my favorite animals whose life stages have plenty to follow.
Little birds made their nests on my kitchen window sill a few years ago. Through the window, I could follow their lives up very close, all the way to the chicks hatching and finally leaving the nest. The slowest chick in the nest was much like the last bird in this book. It was very timid and did not dare to fly away until several days after the others.
I have learned over the years that birds are also individuals. They have their own character and habits – unfortunately, their particular dangers and enemies, too.
What were some themes that were important for you to explore in this book?
There are quite a few things hidden in this bird story. Themes include the interest in observing nature, the need for information, the coexistence of man and animal, and respect for each other. Maybe also the fact that you shouldn’t rush with nature, not even if the active children might feel it challenging to be patient enough.
Ava’s interest in nature and the sincere attempt to help the chick are evident. Even it’s clear – at least for grownup readers – right from the beginning that Ava’s methods are not efficient but rather humorous.
Although it’s evident that nature often needs just peace to take care of its cause without human interference, I wish to encourage children to take an interest and responsibility for nature and wildlife.
The importance of the generation chain is also one of my favorite themes. It appears in this book both in the description of the human family and the life of the birds. Birds and humans take care of and prepare the youngest generation for life and take experience and knowledge forward in the family.
What were some of your inspirations as a writer?
I have already revealed above how nature is a constant source of my enthusiasm. In this story, “Ava and the Last Bird,” there are many of my observations, too.
However, my main inspiration for all books is children. Their way of observing the world is unique. Everything is still so in the beginning; everything is amazing and new. The days are full of surprises. I remember very well that feeling of endless adventure.
It is still easy for me and very pleasant to look at the world through the eyes of a child. I want to take that perspective into account in everything I write. Sometimes I watch events as if standing next to my child reader – rejoicing, being surprised, becoming sad, or feeling scared together.
Alongside that perspective, I also take the experiences of my adult self to the book. A mother’s, grandmother’s, and educator’s perspectives help me understand, support, and help children. In the same way, I have always supported children in my family and around in wider circles.
The biggest inspiration and motivation for my books comes from their impact on children’s lives. If a single cry calms down, hope is maintained, fear is overcome, or enthusiasm for learning something awakens, I’ve been successful and am ready to continue again!
Will there be more Ava and Axel stories? If so, adventures will they be going on next?
So far, three books have been published about Ava and her friend Axel. The books are named after who is at the center of that particular story.
“Axel Washes the Rug” book a small story of Axel’s routine visit to Grandma’s. Admittedly, the situation takes on new dimensions after the blueberry bowl falls on Grandma’s carpet – and the secret repair attempts with detergents and bleaches follow the accident.
In “Axel and Ava as Cat Sitters” book, the children’s efforts to help their neighbor turn into a wild chase after an unsuccessful cat carousel play. Various attempts eventually make the cat escape from the balcony window. As you see, the life of active children is full of surprises!
More of Ava and Axel’s adventures are coming later. I have already finished two other stories: one about baking and one about helping at the marketplace.
It’s easy to imagine that the attempts and ideas of young bakers in the kitchen can lead to an unpredictable outcome. Many small things can go wrong when working as a temporary sales assistant. But it’s fun anyway!
I think small readers can identify well with these situations. It’s good for them to see how others also make mistakes now and then but always happily try again. I think it’s an essential lesson in life – even for adults!
Author Links: Facebook | Website
Ava closely watches life in a bird’s nest outside her window. She is eager to help a chick when it falls onto the lawn. Can she teach the little one to sing and fly?
The Art Of Creativity
Count and Play with K Dot follows as a friendly ladybug that wants to make friends and teach her new friends how to count to ten. What was the inspiration for this children’s book?
The inspiration for writing this children’s book was my father, John, who taught me that counting numbers was exciting and fun.
Ever since I was knee-high to a grasshopper, being physically active, having a vivid imagination, and asking endless questions were personality traits my dear mother could not handle alone. Therefore, my father was nominated to take me with him to work every day. John was a skilled contractor who built remarkable residential properties and custom homes but was also an education enthusiast and avid reader. Growing up on construction sites enabled me to learn the process of building things from scratch, the art of creativity, the details of coordinating colors, the value of friendship, how collaboration is vital, how teamwork makes dreams work, and the importance of determination.
I learned to count numbers by hammering nails in straight lines into scraps of lumber on numerous construction sites. As John taught me to utilize the hammer and nails properly, he created exciting counting games along the way. John insisted that I count the number of each nail out loud as it hammered into the wood. John’s games were simple and fun, making counting numbers memorable and rewarding. His simple but effective method of teaching to count numbers was the inspiration behind the book Count and Play with K Dot, Learning Numbers 1-10 is More Fun with a Friend!
I was impressed with how much detail you were able to put into the artwork and still keep it simple. What was the process like creating the illustrations for this book?
The process used for creating the illustrations for Count and Play with K Dot was specific and intentional. Once the storyline completed a clear message, I designed artwork that depicted my vision of K Dot’s story. Searching for art that expressed my imagination and vision took time, care, and consideration. I specifically designed K Dot with exaggerated eyelashes, big playful bows on her antennas, unexpected elfish boots on her many legs, and a warm smile that enhanced her whimsical character. After K Dot’s character came to life, I intentionally designed the storyline artwork on each page to compliment her simple and colorful style with bright and bold colors that enhanced her playful personality. I chose to implement five insects as her companions during the story, and they remain in every K Dot book as her insect friends in the Learning Garden where she lives.
What inspired you to become a children’s book writer?
Becoming a children’s writer has been my long-awaited dream for over thirty years that has finally come to fruition. Reading to my son during childhood sparked the idea to write children’s books focused on learning while still being joyful, entertaining, and fun. I imagined a spunky, spirited, teeny-tiny ladybug as a relatable character for him and every child to enjoy. I created K Dot to be an enthusiastic friend that likes to play learning games by inviting her new friends to learn and play together. My focus was to inspire every child’s imagination with stories filled with colorful characters and simple art that enhanced their fun, playfulness, and motivation.
Will there be more K Dot books on other topics?
The K Dot Learning Fun Series consists of three books with many more books encouraging learning fun on the way very soon. Count and Play with K Dot, Learning Numbers 1-10 is More Fun with a Friend is the Counting Numbers book, Find ABCs and Play with K Dot, Learning the ABCs is More Fun with a Friend is the ABCs book, with the Find Colors and Play with K Dot, Learning the Colors is More Fun with a Friend being the Colors book. All three books of The K Dot Learning Fun Series are available on Amazon for children to enjoy.
Author Links: Website | Amazon
Learning is more fun when it’s done with a friend!
Introduce the numbers 1-10 with a playing game that includes a new friend, K Dot. She is a teeny-tiny, little-whittle, sassy-frassy, bright and brassy ladybug that loves to play learning games with her friends!
Children are invited to count and play with K Dot, “Hi, friend. Let’s count from 1-10 and then do it again!”
K Dot’s enthusiasm and whimsical personality make learning fun, “Learning games are fun to play with a friend like YOU!”
Have a fun adventure in the learning garden with K Dot and her insect friends.
K Dot likes to play the game Hide-and-Seek. Can you find her hiding behind the numbers 1-10 and also hidden in other places to enhance the counting fun? K Dot’s insect friends join in the game and want you to count them too!
Learn the numbers 1-10 while you count and play with K Dot, The Little-Bitty Learning Ladybug!
Count and Play with K Dot, the Little-Bitty Learning Ladybug is a wonderful gift for all children 0-3, Baby Showers, Christmas stocking stuffers, Birthday presents, Grandparent gifts for any occasion, Pre-school fun, Friends, Teachers, Neighbors, or Family Members!
America: Standing Strong
Robert J. Emery’s America Standing Strong is a detailed analysis of the latest catastrophes in American politics. Backed up by a plethora of quotes from historical- and present- day visionaries, scholars, and politicians, Emery reviews the political and legal pratfalls of the previous administration while offering brief lessons on America’s accomplishments and shortcomings.
Emery covers such topics as tribalism, conspiracy theories, the environment, gun violence, BLM, the Covid-19 pandemic, and the Russian invasion of Ukraine. He relates many current events back to historical parallels, but the common theme seems to be that the American people have never been on such a precarious precipice of losing their democracy.
America Standing Strong is not a light read, but it is a useful and necessary lesson and provides readers with a worthy and informed reflection on how and why we, the American people, got here. Emery does a great job of laying down a baseline of American history, including failures and accomplishments. The main focus of the book is on how to recover from the damage done by the Trump administration. To his credit, Emery uses polite language, and the message to the American people throughout the book is a plea for togetherness, forgiveness, and reconciliation. This is a worthy undertaking, as the author presents problems with solutions, that will appeal to anyone that is willing to listen without bias.
America Standing Strong is an enlightening and impactful read and presents compelling evidence that has the potential to change political discourse in the U.S. Whether you pick up this book up to get a better understanding of the contemporary issues America faces or because you want to find new solutions to those problems, this is a book that will surely get people talking.
Pages: 228 | ASIN: B0B2KSLN5D
Fly Agaric
Fly Agaric is what happens when a bunch of mushroom nerds get together and geek out about their favorite fungus- the Fly Agaric. The result is brilliant. The book is designed to be beginner-friendly. No prior knowledge is needed, because the book covers absolutely everything you would need to know, and Feeney has ensured that all the information in the book is 100% approachable. Something in the book is sure to grab your attention and, before you know it, you’ll be dragged into the weird and wonderful world of Fly Agaric fans.
This comprehensive book is divided into five parts, each with a different theme. It begins with a very useful beginner’s guide to mushroom hunting and identification. This section is full of helpful guides and safety information for any fledgling mushroom hunters. The second part is my personal favorite. It is a rundown of appearances of possible allusions to Fly Agaric use in religion, culture, and folklore. This informative book is very well researched, well written, and will likely change how you view some parts of history. Some of the conjecture used in this part is then backed up in part three where Feeney’s experts analyze archaeological evidence. The book then takes another turn in part four, where it becomes a Fly Agaric cookbook. It opens by telling stories of cooking with the mushroom and why doing so is a good idea. Feeney then takes over and tells us everything we need to know about cooking the mushroom. From nutritional information to actual recipes. Finally, the book ends in part five with the science of the Fly Agaric. This section is not too dry and is just as approachable as the rest of the book. The section has everything you could want to know if you wanted to experiment with Fly Agaric yourself.
Fly Agaric is a fantastic tool for anyone that wants to dive into this fascinating topic as it is extensive, thorough, and accessible. This enlightening guide would also make a great coffee table book. You’ll find yourself picking through it, reading the bits you find most interesting until you find you’ve consumed the whole thing. The book is a great read and Feeney and his writers have done an excellent job sharing their passion with the rest of the world.
Pages: 508 | ISBN: 0578714426
A Special Sweater
Eddy is creative and enthusiastic about knitting. After making a pot holder decides he will knit a sweater. He starts by looking at designs in a magazine, then he draws up a plan. Unfortunately, he hits roadblocks towards his goal. His family thinks this project is too much for him and that he can’t get the right yarn and needles to make a project this large. Rather than giving up, Eddy finds ways around these problems and never gives up on his vision. Even when it takes him months to complete the project, he keeps going and finding solutions to every problem he encounters. In the end, Eddy is proud of his hard work and dedication; nothing anyone says will diminish his happiness.
A Special Sweater by children’s author Tuula Pere is a heartwarming children’s book about dedication and determination. Eddy learns to knit, and even when everyone around tells him making a sweater is too much work or trouble, he refuses to give up. Instead, he makes the best of the supplies he is given, even if they are not what he needs or wants for his vision. The ability to adapt to his situation and the make the best is a valuable lesson that children can learn from.
I love how Eddy keeps going, takes every obstacle, and finds a way around it. So many books have things work out easily. This one really showcases how important a good attitude is to turning something into a magical experience. When things don’t work out how he wants he adjusts his vision and perspective to see the project through.
A Special Sweater is an inspirational picture book that will show children that they can achieve their dreams even when there are obstacles in the way. They will learn that having a good attitude is key to finding a way through challenges in life. This is an excellent book for families and classrooms to have.
Pages: 32 | ASIN : B09K6M3CHL
Real-Time Earthquake Tracking and Localisation
After the tragic earthquake that hit China in 2008, both George D. Daglish and Lurii Sizov came together to create early warning seismic software. Readers get an in-depth look at the work they’ve done as well as the testing they’ve done.
Both authors provide a wealth of knowledge in their book, and their experience shows. Some readers may find this book overwhelming at times because of all of the information that this book contains, but the authors also take the time to explain it to the reader.
The mathematical equations in the book cover algorithms to calculate and determine where epicenters and hypocenters are active. If you are not a mathematician, some of these concepts can be confusing, but the authors do a great job breaking them down for those new to the concepts. The provided formulas are explained with enough information so readers can follow along and understand what is being discussed. The authors offer theories and provide evidence to support their theories making this plausible.
I did feel as though I was reading a textbook written by professors, but surprisingly the topic was interesting. The seismograph images included in the book are interesting to look at and would be helpful if this is your field of study or if you are interested in earthquakes. Both authors also include their test parameters to show what areas have earthquakes and if the software will detect an earthquake in that region. The software both Daglish and Sizov are working on to assist with the early detection and prediction of earthquakes is commendable as it can save thousands of lives and be used in many countries.
Real-Time Earthquake Tracking and Localisation: A Formulation for Elements in Earthquake Early Warning Systems (Eews) is an educational book for those who are interested in science, specifically earthquakes. There is an abundance of testing, evidence, and documentation in this book that can be used by someone in this field of study or those just wanting to learn more about the technology being created to help save lives.
Pages: 395 | ASIN : B07MHTK6ZZ
I Believe In The Power Of Words
The Fox’s City is the delightful tale of one fox’s plan to outwit a city and have his way. What was the inspiration for the setup to your story?
The adventures of Francis the Fox reflect social and political setups in many countries as well as in international contexts – unfortunately. Stories start to live in my head when I read or hear something absurd, annoying, or unreasonable in the news or public discussion.
My background as a Ph.D. in Law is sometimes reflected in my fox stories, where the appropriateness and legality are constantly tested, and the boundaries are sometimes crossed. Social justice and the rights of individuals are valuable to me, and I want to speak for them. As my tool to influence, I have chosen the one I feel most comfortable with, the use of words.
I believe in the power of words. I want to write about social and political problems in a way that works for children. I think children’s books can prepare them to meet certain realities they encounter in the world – at least as they grow up.
When reading “The Fox’s City” with adult eyes, we find some severe themes between the lines. It talks about the pursuit of power by any means, societal manipulation, and limitations on freedom of speech. Telling about the activities and wrongdoings of this power-hungry fox makes children think about justice and the effects and consequences of different actions. Nothing wrong with opening one’s eyes already at an early age!
All of your books are so artful and creative. What is your writing process like?
Thank you! Hearing this makes an author happy! As I write books, I try to give my best. I genuinely value children as a target group. I try to reach a level that is more than pure entertainment – though I understand it’s needed, too. I have been fortunate to find skilled and ambitious illustrators for my books. They add their spices to the stories and interpret them in a visually exciting way. I find this co-operation very stimulating.
In my stories, I want to combine child-like and free imagination and creativity with the knowledge and experience of life I have gathered. There is so much to remember and share!
Sometimes it feels like having an endless story library or warehouse in my head. I can adventure there alone and taste the content, or I can pick something out and write a story for others if I feel like that. I can honestly say that writing is like breathing for me—an equally important and equally natural way to live.
I write when I am happy, excited, sad, or irritable — whenever there is a lively movement in my mind and thoughts need to be expressed in words to others. But I also write when there is peace of mind and a calm feeling prevails. Emotional states affect what kind of things I want to write about and how I do it.
Often the stories are almost ready-made packages in my head. I can take them out whenever I need to. The stimulus can come from inside or outside of me. When writing starts, it’s a go! I enjoy the flow of the story, and I can’t stop in the middle. The time for a more detailed examination and corrections will come later. Before that, the intense feeling must calm down.
What do you find to be the hardest part of writing?
As a continuation of the previous answer, I could say that the most challenging stages in my work are placed on both sides of the actual writing stage.
Before the story gets on paper, the biggest dilemma is the overwhelming amount of ideas. I’m so excited about so many writing possibilities all the time that it’s hard to choose which one to tackle first. I would like to accomplice so much simultaneously that it exceeds the strength of one person. I have to limit and control my enthusiasm!
The congestion of ideas I described above is a positive dilemma that I actually enjoy. More problematic is the phase after creative writing, where you have to delve into grinding, editing, and proofreading the text. It would be wonderful if I could leave that later stage more in the hands of others, and I could just grab another inspiring story and write a new book about it.
Will readers be able to see Francis the Fox in any of your future books?
I have already published two books about this fox villain, “The Fox’s City” and “The Fox’s Palace,” and the following three books are in the process already.
Francis the Fox has become such a “friend” to me that I must continue with him! I completed the Finnish version of the third book in the series yesterday, and the next two are waiting for my “summer vacation.” The following subjects are also captured from the society and politics around, and the storylines are ready in my head for writing out.
Writing about society and politics in a child-appropriate way will be much fun again! I believe a suitable amount of satire also works in children’s books! Especially if the protagonist is a villain like my Francis the Fox. I have to admit, writing about villains and various bad guys is sometimes fun. I can bring up contradictions and create moral tests for the readers. But goodness and honesty always win at the end of my stories.
Interestingly, some of my readers have wished Francis the Fox “tougher penalties” in the end. In real life, it might have happened. But a fairy tale is a fairy tale, and Francis continues his journey into new attempts and mistakes. Just wait for the following three books to come! Very current subjects!
I think children need clever books about society, too. After all, we have to try to understand this strange world starting from our childhood.
Author Links: Facebook | Website
When the old wolf mayor goes on a fishing trip on a deserted island, Francis talks him into letting Francis serve as substitute mayor. But Francis’s greed for power and actions quickly make city residents uneasy. There’s something suspicious going on in the library attic, and the city’s carrier pigeons have disappeared mysteriously.
Will Francis ruin the upcoming soccer match with a rival team? And will it be a friendly match as always before?
LITERARY TITAN 