Blog Archives
Marco Pablo & Olivia Story One Fútbol Tryouts
It’s not easy moving to a new neighborhood, especially at a young age. It can cause a lot of stress and worry. Although, it’s a lot easier when you have your siblings by your side. Marco Pablo & Olivia Fútbol Tryouts, by Ana Cortes follows an Ecuadorian family, moving into a new city. When the three siblings, Marco Olivia and Pablo, see the inside of their new house, they begin to grow excited at the idea of decorating their own rooms. As they look around, their mom brings them the news that there is a fútbol field nearby! Marco immediately wants to take his siblings to go see it, and when they go they discover that there are soccer tryouts coming up. But, when they talk to the team, they find that one member doesn’t want Marco on the team. He insults him and tries to convince him not to come to tryouts, but Marco is determined. Now, the siblings are left with the task of helping Marco complete the tryouts and making it onto the team!
Not only does this story show readers Ecuadorian culture, but it also covers multiple other important lessons for children to learn. The author writes about moving into a new city, which everyone knows can be difficult and worrying. The author brings to light that moving can also bring positivity and new opportunities.
The story also covers the topic of bullying very well as it shows how to stop a bully, and how to continue to follow your dreams, despite what they may say. It’s important to stay true to yourself and continue to do what makes you happy.
The comic book style of this story really brings it to life as it is full of color and all the characters are emotive. The scenery is drawn with a lot of detail, helping the reader to immerse themselves in the scenes. Overall, the story delivers an incredible message while still entertaining the audience with wonderful writing and drawings.
Marco Pablo & Olivia Fútbol Tryouts, by Ana Cortes is entertaining while also being educational. It teaches children how to balance a new life, and get through any barriers they may run into. The illustrations are drawn with an amazing amount of skill and detail, making the book captivating. This charming children’s book is useful for any child to have, so they can understand that these challenges are only temporary, and there’s always a way to get through.
ASIN: B09QQ2QC9M
The Things Most People Fear Are Foolish
Where’s My Monster follows a young girl that is not afraid of the monsters in the dark because she brings them into the light and shows them friendship and love. What was the inspiration for your story?
The inspiration for Where’s My Monster? started with my belief that many of the things that we fear have power over us only because we fear them. That thought can be summed up with a quote I made as a teenager, namely, “Only a fool does not know fear, but the things most people fear are foolish.”
The art in this book is fantastic I loved Aurora the most. What was the art collaboration process like with illustrator Yulia Popova?
I fell in love with Yulia’s artwork the first time I came across it on Internet. I especially love how adorable the children and monsters are in the book. I gave her rough draft of the images and she transformed that draft into something that I had not even imagined; Aurora and her five pink bows are one of the countless surprised that Yulia created.
What were some themes that were important for you to explore in this book?
The Martin Luther King Jr. quote at the back of the book encapsulates the main theme of the book for me:
“Darkness cannot drive out darkness; only LIGHT can do that.
Hate cannot drive out hate; only LOVE can do that.”
Another intended theme is that LIGHT is much more powerful than DARKNESS; bring DARK into a lit room and it does nothing but bring LIGHT into a DARK room and it will light up the whole room.
What is the next book that you are working on and when will it be available?
I’m very excited about my third book. I have the whole concept organized on paper and now I just have to start to write the storyline. Yulia has said that she will be available to illustrate it at the end of summer 2022. It won’t be part of the Where’s My? series but rather for a bit older reader. I know this will sound strange but it is influenced by my first degree in Computer Science. Stay tuned and this influence will make sense.
Author Links: GoodReads | Twitter | Facebook | Website | Instagram
Readers are having fun activity where they can look for items such as a Lighthouse Calendar, crystal and other treasures throughout the book. As well, there is a question sheet at the end of the book to probe the theme of the book further.
“Where’s My Monster is a well-crafted picture book combining a meaningful message and remarkable illustrations. The combination makes this a perfect book for teachers, schools, and caregivers. With a secular approach, it is sure to be a welcome addition to help teach kindness and compassion.”
***** Literary Titan Review
Demystifying Marketing And Cutting Through The BS
Marketing = Customers + Heart is more than a marketing book, it is a step-by-step marketing plan for entrepreneurs, written by people that have been there before. Why was this an important book for you to write?
(Judy) Over the past 30 years, I’ve been a volunteer mentor. It might sound clichéd, but I’ve always believed that you have to give, to grow and see life through someone else’s eyes. As a result, I have benefitted from mentoring as much as I know my mentees have. But along the way, I’ve seen common themes in what those businesses have needed. So, instead of being the ambulance at the bottom of the cliff, I wanted to get the message out to those that don’t have big budgets. Or who have previously worked with unscrupulous ambulance drivers, and the sad reality is that they are out there. If a business starts with a solid foundation built on understanding customers, you won’t need the ambulance.
(Eriks) I strongly believe in demystifying marketing and cutting through the BS. Over my decades in media & entertainment I’ve been a client myself, and sat through jargon-filled presentations from big agencies designed to maintain the mystique of their high art. Even a glossy entertainment brand has to understand its listener/viewer/reader at a grass-roots level of their daily life – just the same as a small business. I love finding out what makes people tick, and providing solutions to their problems and needs, whether it’s finding their favourite music or furnishing their home.
What is a common misconception you feel people have about marketing?
(Judy) Most small businesses are scared of marketing, because they hear horror stories, or give it a go and it doesn’t work. And that’s based on the biggest misconception of all, that marketing is just advertising.
To a degree, that’s been exacerbated by our digital world. We’re told to boost a post, or discount, because you feel the pressure from competitors. But that’s advertising & promotion, and only one component of marketing.
Until businesses understand the importance of marketing and where it fits in the business structure as the central beating heart, they’ll continue to miss out on their full potential.
(Eriks) That it’s one box in the company organisation chart, and as Judy said, it’s seen as all about advertising. Which adds to the problem we now have of anyone who knows how to use a digital advertising tool is a ‘marketer’. Which is misleading to small businesses looking for help at a strategic level, reinventing their business, market research, defining potential customers, finding new opportunities and so on.
What do you hope is one thing readers take away from this book?
(Judy) A deeper understanding of what marketing really is and how it can shape their business. I want them to give marketing the respect it must have for their success, to feel inspired to engage with customers. I’ve seen it time and again. When they do, their advertising starts to connect, and they see the results in their bank accounts. There are so many benefits to following the pathway we outline. Of course, it won’t take away all their problems, but it will help them make better decisions. It will shape their evolution, because nothing survives if it sits still.
(Eriks) That marketing is exciting and well within their hands, to enjoy doing every day. Whether its chatting to a customer, or coming up with new ideas, there are practical ways to make marketing a habit and not a pain. It’s no different to relationships in your circle of family & friends. By being constantly in tune with their needs you adapt how you relate to your group, how to entertain them or overcome obstacles, helping them make their life better.
What is the next book that you are working on and when will it be available?
(Judy) We’re committed to make Marketing = Customers + Heart a “living” book. As we gather new insights and information we’ll be updating the QR Code content at each of the 7 Stages. So in a way, this is a story that never ends. And for now, that’s enough, but I’ve learned never to say never – life is full of surprises!
Author Links: GoodReads | LinkedIn | Facebook | Website
It’s easy to feel frustrated and disheartened when you’re trying to grow your small business, pouring precious cash into advertising channels and funnels with little or no return. But you can change your business’s fortune with a marketing plan that places your customers at the very heart of your business.
Marketing = Customers + Heart is more than a marketing book, it’s your way of business. If you follow this clear, practical, and proven formula you too will win in small business. Join Judy and Eriks Celmins as they share the 7 Stages for building a solid growth strategy – stages you can implement immediately, and every day. Developed over their three decades of experience challenging conventions and problem-solving in a wide range of innovative businesses and industries, this formula will help you:
Build a solid foundation to create, understand, nurture, and retain customers.
Tap into your hidden reserves of creativity for new and exciting ideas.
Feel confident that your marketing decisions are finally on target with your goals and aspirations.
Discover how stronger customer relationships lead to deeper insights and greater growth.
Expand your mindset and easily identify new opportunities before your competitors.
The Marketing = Customers + Heart formula comes at the very first, critical step of your marketing strategy – a step that too many businesses skip over. This book is a must-read, before you waste one more cent sending the wrong message.
When you purchase this book, 100% of the gross profits will be donated to a Ukrainian family in desperate need. You can find out more by visiting our website https://thriveablebiz.com
W Verbal Cheerleader For Doctoral Students
Doctorate 101: A Concise Guidebook for Your Journey provides readers with tips, encouragement, and steps on how to achieve their goals. Why was this an important book for you to write?
During my doctoral journey I faced immense challenges, setbacks, and disappointments. There were times where I second guessed if I would finish the program. I knew I was capable of doing the work. But there was a point where my process became stagnant. I know my journey was similar to other doctoral students as well. I was driven to write this book to create a verbal cheerleader for doctoral students. The goal was to offer some insight, expectations, and support to doctoral students and to let them know they were not alone.
What is a common misconception you feel people have about obtaining a Doctorate Degree?
A common misconception is that obtaining a doctorate or phd degree can only lead to opportunity for a teaching or education position. Doctoral graduates work in a range of professional areas to include higher level government positions, human resources, training, research and numerous others.
What is one piece of advice you wish someone had given you before starting a doctorate program?
One piece of advice that I wish someone had provided to me prior to starting the doctorate program is to focus on my own journey. You start with a cohort of students. But not everyone will finish at the same time. This can be discouraging. But focusing on the status of other students can keep you from progressing. In a bachelor or master program the completion timeline is fairly straightforward. However, during a doctorate program the completion deadline is a moving target. It will need to be adjusted based on progress, revisions, finances, and other factors.
You have a wide range of books currently published. What book are you currently in the middle of writing?
I am currently in the process of completing a children’s book dedicated to and celebrating the quiet and introverted child. I am very excited to finish this book. I especially love creating books and activities that support children’s minds and learning.
Author Links: Facebook | Website
Did you recently start your doctorate program?
Do you have anxiousness or concerns about what to expect?
In this book, the author, Dr. Dawn McLucas strives to offer insight and motivation to all learners pursuing or considering starting a doctorate program. This compact book provides key information to provide students with an introduction to the doctoral journey without overwhelming the reader. The summary of experiences, tips, and encouragement serve to better equip students in their new educational pursuits.
In this book you will discover:Author experiences
Goal setting ideas
An introduction to the dissertation
Expectations
Tips for maintaining motivation and support
After processing the ideas and tips provided, you will hopefully feel more at ease and prepared to start your journey toward adding to the world of research and reaching your goal of obtaining a doctorate.
Lessons I had to learn the hard way!
SOS Champion Captain follows the school’s most competitive student as she has to learn how to work in a group and the value of teamwork. What was the inspiration for your story?
I remember being in the final year of elementary school. Just like Nora I was fortunate to be elected school captain. During rehearsals for our end of year play I ran out of patience with some of the students who weren’t taking their parts seriously. My frustration didn’t help the situation. In fact, the students became less willing to cooperate. The lessons Nora learns in SOS Champion Captain were the lessons I had to learn the hard way! I hoped the story would help the perfectionists and high achievers and who struggle to work with others. Kindness and humility can go a long way when it comes to being a great captain.
Nora wants to win every completion but struggles with working with others. What were some driving ideals behind your character’s development?
Nora Nibblesworth shares many character traits with my eldest daughter, including her competitive streak and the desire to be in control. Yes, she inherited this from me! Nora has previously starred in my Scallywags series, but this was the first time I wrote her at the main character in a story. I thought it was good for readers to see some of the character flaws that come with such a driven individual. My daughter even suggested some of Nora’s lines. Nora’s teammates were partly inspired by my other daughters (who love hots chips) and are a little more relaxed when it comes to completing projects.
What were some themes that were important for you to explore in this book?
Teamwork, diversity, and the respect of classmates’ opinions were central to this story. Nora learns the hard way that she can’t always have her way, and that to succeed she needs to rely on her friends.
What is the next book that you are working on and when will it be available?
After completing the ten books in the SOS series I am working on several adventure novels in my Pie Rats series. The first will be called Traitor’s Tail. The release date will be late 2023.
Author Links: GoodReads | Instagram | Facebook | Website
Welcome to the School of Scallywags, a boarding school for young pirates. At SOS, students live at school during the term and go home for the holidays. Each night is one big sleepover with their friends! Each new day is an adventure waiting to happen.
The students at SOS don’t always get things right. But with a little encouragement from their friends and teachers, they learn that even the biggest disasters can be turned around.
Each story in the SOS series focuses on a different student and explores the personal and social challenges they face. Themes for Champion Captain include demonstrating unity through tolerance and acceptance.
SOS stories are designed for developing readers in lower to middle primary school. Books in the series include both male and female protagonists. Each book has seven or eight short chapters with illustrations on every page. Readers can move up to the award-winning Scallywags series which feature the same characters in extended adventures.
The Future Survival Guide
The Future Survival Guide is written for readers who are seeking clarity and freedom from the damaging experiences they have had in life; whether as a child or an adult. Author Sharon Hayes-Martin candidly discusses how Christianity can help bring you peace and forgiveness. The author covers topics such as surviving abuse, cult churches, the saved and unsaved and many more significant topics.
Author Sharon Hayes-Martin has written an enlightening guidebook that is designed to help readers become a better version of themselves. The author uses a conversational tone throughout her book so it felt like I was speaking to a teacher or a mentor the whole time I was reading. With this eager and passionate tone, the author conveys the vast knowledge and experience she posses, and l was eager to know more.
Even though this book is written from the author’s perspective I never felt like she was trying to convince me to turn to the Christian faith, rather she discussed what the faith has to offer. Hayes-Martin covers heavy topics such as suicide and depression and I appreciated that she openly shares her experiences with us and how she was able to come through to the other side and be in a better place. I also enjoyed the fact that this is a short read that is packed with useful information.
One aspect of this book that I found to be interesting and helpful were the details of cult churches and Christian predators, which are hustlers and grifters. This served as a warning sign to all and is a great way for readers to open their eyes to this threat. This is a difficult topic to cover and I commend the author as she is not afraid to also tell the dark side of Christianity in order to help people. The author provides readers with pragmatic tips to avoid these situations when being introduced to the Christian church and she recommends to do your research before committing to one church.
I highly recommend The Future Survival Guide to readers who are curious about Christianity and to those who are lost and want to be put on the correct path. Hayes-Martin provides readers with critical information and actionable advice they need to make informed decisions so that they can safely give faith a chance and find their way to freedom.
Pages: 106 | ASIN: B09WTN43KW
Stories from Ecuador
Stories from Ecuador is a collection of short, well-put-together, and connected stories of the author’s experiences while living and working in Ecuador. The book consists of thirty-four different stories all about the beauty of Ecuador and its welcoming people. It follows Nelson himself as he sets on a journey to work in this foreign country as an English teacher there. He writes about his whole experience from arriving at the airport in Ecuador and needing to quickly switch hostels due to overbooking, to detailed and beautifully explained sightseeing experiences in and around Cuenca, to the everyday life and activities he did and his overall impressions of the country that he got to call home.
One of my favorite stories definitely has to be one of the first stories in the book, where he meets his first friends there, Sheik and her son José. It is a heartwarming story about people instantly coming together and it sets the comfortable and cozy tone for the rest of the book. Nelson did a fantastic job at describing all the beautiful sights you can see and experience in Ecuador.
The book also does a great job of conveying that sense of the unknown that comes with moving to a foreign country and all the love, positivity, laughs and friendships that come with it. In addition to that, the book is filled with pictures of all the people and sights that the author got to meet and see during his stay. This really helps readers to become fully immersed in the authors experiences and understand the beauty with their own eyes.
Stories from Ecuador by Tyrel Nelson conveys all the wonder and joy that comes with traveling and living in a foreign land. It will certainly make you want to visit Ecuador. This is an entertaining and educational book that will transport you to South America as it provides a clear and beautiful view at one persons time in an exotic country.
Pages: 130 | ASIN: B08T9KMFV8
An Opportunity To Put Lifestyle First
The Self-Employed Life gives those that want to be self-employed a realistic look into the challenges and pitfalls, as well as how to be successful in self-employment. Why was this an important book for you to write?
It’s all I’ve ever known. I’ve never held a traditional job or received a paycheck from anyone. I realized this is a terribly underserved segment of society. A book was needed that spoke our language, that understood the realities of being self-employed. Business strategies that focused on relationships and not transactions. That were suited for one person businesses and small teams. An understanding of the emotional challenges we face and ways to improve our mindsets to reach our highest aspirations.
It’s always seemed that it’s the most innovative, creative, and bravest amongst us that chose to start their own businesses. To forge our own path and be different. Then without our particular needs being addressed, it seemed to reinforce we are “different”, not heard or as respected as we deserve. I want to change that.
What is one piece of advice you wish someone had given you when you were younger?
That recognition is an important strategy of success. I’ve always been perfectly happy just being good at what I do without worrying about whether anyone noticed. Eventually you realize that recognition is an important component of advancing your career and having the impact you desire.
What do you hope is one thing readers take away from your story?
To be proud of being self-employed. To see being self-employed as worthy of the highest level of respect and to join together as a community. That being self-employed is an opportunity to put lifestyle first and build a business that fits into your life rather than a life you’re trying to fit into your work.
What is the next book that you are working on and when will it be available?
I have several ideas for the next book, but nothing decided yet. It will most definitely serve self-employed business owners again and I’m aiming for Spring 2024.
Author Links: GoodReads | Twitter | Facebook | Website
To be self-employed means more than employing oneself. It’s a choice to challenge yourself to grow personally while building a business. Caught between entrepreneurship and small business, self-employed people often feel overlooked and left out.
Professional photographer and host of the Creative Warriors podcast Jeffrey Shaw believes that as we develop ourselves, we raise the bar—we’re capable of even more success. What self-employed folks need is both business strategies and personal development to reach and maintain that success. In The Self-Employed Life, Shaw offers a three-part ecosystem for success:
● Personal development: mindset, exercise, nutrition, and other healthy shifts
● Business strategies: marketing, finance, and other key tools for growing your business
● Sustainability: the daily habits that help you sustain success
This holistic approach will equip you over the long haul, beyond the mechanics of setting up and running a business.
Whereas Shaw’s previous book, Lingo, was about creating the secret language to attract ideal customers, this book is all about creating the environment, the Self-Employed Ecosystem, to attract the success you want. He shows you how to get clear on what you want to get away from what you don’t want, set clear intentions in a specific From-To format, and reflect on three big life questions to clear the way.
As Paul Jarvis did with Company of One, Jeffrey Shaw plots a path forward for the solopreneur who knows that small is better—except when it comes to how big you can dream. He shows you how you can set up your environment to create the success you want. You may be in business for yourself, but you’re not in business by yourself.
LITERARY TITAN 