Blog Archives
The Boy From Boadua: One African’s Journey of Hunger and Sacrifice in Pursuit of a Dream
The Boy from Boadua by Patrick Asare is a captivating chronicle that traces Asare’s journey from his humble beginnings in the small Ghanaian town of Boadua to his accomplished adulthood in the United States. This engrossing narrative is a testament to Asare’s youthful aspirations and his relentless quest to surpass the constraints of his unassuming origins. Readers are treated to a vibrant exploration of Asare’s growth and evolution, skillfully entwined with a rich portrayal of Ghana’s culture, traditions, and adversities.
Asare’s adept storytelling paints an immersive picture that transcends geographic boundaries, allowing readers to journey through previously unexplored terrains, and empathize with unfamiliar struggles. His straightforward, lucid prose, bereft of excessive lyricism or metaphors, serves as a pristine canvas where his compelling narrative unfolds uninhibitedly, with the spotlight rightly shining on the messages he aims to convey.
The characters in the story are imbued with remarkable realism, be it the father’s sacrificial love or the protagonist’s innocent frustrations during his childhood. This authenticity fosters a deep connection with the reader, lending a universal appeal to the story. The Boy from Boadua particularly shines in its nuanced exploration of human responses to varied life circumstances. Asare deftly illustrates the multifaceted nature of circumstances, the diverse elements influencing one’s life, all the while inspiring readers with the tenacity and perseverance that have been the guiding lights of his life journey.
The Boy from Boadua is an alluring novel that instructs readers about perseverance, injustice, resilience, and the boundless potential of life. A stirring emotional journey that delivers its message with unflinching honesty, it comes highly recommended to those seeking to be deeply moved and engaged by a powerful story.
Pages: 270 | ASIN : B0BNXXH9R9
Literary Titan Book Award July 2023
The Literary Titan Book Awards are granted to children’s books that have enchanted and delighted us with their distinctive storytelling, vibrant illustrations, engaging characters, or innovative concepts. These books merit extraordinary recognition, and we are thrilled to applaud the tireless efforts, commitment, and creative talent of these exceptional authors.
Award Recipients
Visit the Literary Titan Book Awards page to see award information.
Nurse Florence®, What are some Summer Safety Tips?
When a teacher is absent, school days are always a little more interesting. When Ms. Smith is out for the day, her substitute, Ms. Bryan, helps out guest speaker, Nurse Florence, with her presentation on summer safety. Like any other class of elementary students, Ms. Smith’s kiddos have lots of questions–all good ones at that. They are treated to a Powerpoint presentation that covers everything from water safety to stranger danger. With Nurse Florence help and detailed explanations, Ms. Smith’s students end their day more than well-prepared to head into summer and return safely to school in the fall.
Nurse Florence, What Are Some Summer Safety Tips?, written by Michael Dow and illustrated by JoAnn Smith, is a wonderful guide for children on how to meet the various challenges they may face on summer vacation. Written in a narrative form that serves as an easy-to-read guidebook, Dow’s book covers a wide variety of topics most children will encounter while school is out. In addition, Dow has included many tips that are relevant in day-to-day life.
Dow’s book is a fantastic tool for preparing students for summer break. I teach elementary school, and I can see myself including this book in a lesson at the end of the school year as my students prepare for their summer vacation. I was especially encouraged to see that Dow included advice on using and reapplying sunscreen, wearing hats, and wearing sunglasses with UV protection. As a skin cancer patient and a mother, I found this to be one of the most impactful aspects of Dow’s work.
Teachers and parents looking for a great way to educate children about summer safety will not be disappointed with their purchase. Dow provides a comprehensive list of tips that will make summer safer and more enjoyable for everyone.
Pages: 98 | ISBN: 1387845586
Amusing ABCs
Amusing ABCs is a delightful ABC picture book meticulously crafted to aid children in their journey of learning and recognizing the fundamental letters of the alphabet. Authored by Craig Undlin, this captivating book seamlessly combines education with entertainment through its ingenious use of humorous illustrations and an engaging narrative.
Undlin’s thoughtful creation serves as a valuable resource for early literacy development, establishing a solid foundation for reading comprehension. Each page of this book acquaints young readers with a distinct letter of the alphabet, while introducing them to an assortment of fascinating animals and objects that resonate with the corresponding letter’s sound. The author effortlessly merges learning objectives with an atmosphere of enjoyment. The vibrant and lively illustrations adorning each page capture the attention of young readers, effectively captivating their imagination and sustaining their interest throughout the entire journey. The deliberate allocation of two dedicated pages to each letter allows ample space for exploration and learning, ensuring a comprehensive grasp of each letter’s distinct characteristics. One particularly commendable aspect is the author’s choice to introduce animals and objects that commence with the sound of the respective letter. For instance, the letter “A” unveils an amusing apple that just wanted to jump on his bed, while “B” introduces a fierce and strong bear that loves to sing. This ingenious approach not only facilitates letter recognition but also expands children’s vocabulary and nurtures their imaginative faculties.
Undlin masterfully weaves a simple narrative into each letter, skillfully transforming the act of reading into an enjoyable experience. By incorporating this early introduction to the concept of reading, the author adeptly imparts the understanding that letters form words and that words carry meaning—a pivotal lesson in a child’s literacy journey.
Amusing ABCs stands as a charming and informative ABC picture book that strikes a perfect balance between learning and fun. With its witty illustrations, introduction to a diverse range of animals and objects, and emphasis on early reading concepts, this book emerges as an indispensable tool in a child’s pursuit of literacy. It is certain to captivate young readers and ignite their curiosity about the alphabet, ultimately setting them on a rewarding path towards successful reading and language skills.
Pages: 58 | ASIN: B0C43MYBM9
Take 3D Printers To The Next Level
The Future of 3D Printing shares your journey to revolutionize the everyday by bringing 3D printing into every home, outlining potential eco-conscious solutions, and navigating the complex landscape of industrial reception. Why was this an important book for you to write?
Well, as I describe in my book, my journey began the day I started my 3D printing course and my mind started asking questions about the peripherals around the printer, which seemed to be missing. I wanted to print at home in a suitable environment and not place my printer on the floor or coffee table. But the expected furnishings to do so just weren’t there. I wanted to plug that gap by trying to do it myself and ultimately writing about my experiences.
From there, I started thinking about other aspects of 3D printing using my background in archaeology and anthropology, property management, and sci-fi writing. What makes a tool or appliance an essential cultural asset? Why would we need it? And how will it benefit us?
And then from there, as I tried to build a company around these concepts, the environmental and exponential technologies factors kicked in, with thoughts on recycling and energy harvesting. These aren’t just questions and thought experiments for 3D printing, but can also be applied across other industries. And with more people becoming more socially and eco-aware, it was important to tie 3D printing to such issues and to be a contributing solution to the problem.
What is a common misconception you feel people have about 3D printing?
Most people believe 3D printers are just for making cheap plastic reproductions and for hobbyists to make cosplay costumes. And with sci-fi shows presenting 3D printers as ultra-tech instant printers, it presents an unrealistic version of current capabilities.
What is one thing that surprised you when you learned about 3D printing?
There are a couple of things that surprised me. The first was the relationship between the intricacy of the designs combined with the settings of the printers. Change a detail of the design (like supports & infills – rafts, skirts, or lattice) or the settings on the printer (bed heat, print speed, layer height, etc) and the length of time to print or the product thickness can change drastically.
The other is the sheer number of types of printers on the market (and that’s just the domestic market). Every day, people are enquiring as to which type of printer to start out with and unless you have a specific requirement, there’s no right answer. The first printer I bought was the same type I used during my course, so it was easy.
What do you hope is one thing readers take away from your book?
I hope readers go away with new ideas on how to take 3D printers to the next level. My book is an open letter, a set of challenges to enable readers to create the future one 3D printer at a time.
Author Links: Amazon | GoodReads
Topics such as furniture for 3D printing, recycling, heat and CO2 harvesting, and what can be done to turn 3D Printing green are discussed, plus the potential of exploiting exponential applications like cryptocurrency, the metaverse, and AI to aid 3D printing.
There is also the chronicle of how the author created his own company to achieve this goal and his subsequent adventures.
This educational outlook for 3D printing industry serves as a starting point for those looking to change how the world perceives and uses 3D printing and provides readers with a look at what the future can bring.
Zoey Wonders Why
Navigating the labyrinth of self-identity and lineage can often be a challenging quest. However, Zoey Wonders Why, penned by the talented Nadia Khan, beautifully illuminates the importance of embracing one’s cultural roots as an intrinsic aspect of personal identity. Our young protagonist, Zoey, finds herself grappling with a complex school assignment – showcasing her familial origins, an undertaking complicated by her cosmopolitan lineage.
The narrative weaves Zoey’s intricate journey into a poignant tapestry that invites the readers to share in her conundrum, making the experience profoundly relatable. Khan’s eloquent prose feels akin to an intimate conversation with a young child, ensnaring the readers in an engaging discourse that effortlessly bridges the generational chasm. The narrative, studded with an endearing blend of simplicity and whimsical dialogue, promises to make a delightful read for young minds.
Zoey Wonders Why serves as a vibrant canvas, portraying a richly layered storyline that resonates with the themes of cultural diversity and familial bonds. The magnetic pull of the narrative is further amplified by the vivid illustrations, brimming with lush hues. The heartwarming illustrations, teeming with familial warmth and camaraderie, strike a tender chord, adding a captivating visual dimension to the book.
The profound narrative of Zoey Wonders Why empowers readers to celebrate their unique cultural heritage and appreciate the rich tapestry of diversity. It underscores the idea that the quest for self-identity may seem arduous, yet the courage to delve into one’s family history can be a rewarding voyage of self-discovery. This riveting book, replete with bright illustrations and Zoey’s charming humor, serves as an ideal bedtime story, subtly imparting life lessons amidst the joyous laughter of storytelling.
Zoey Wonders Why is more than just a book—it’s an enchanting voyage through the complexities of self-identity, heritage, and the celebration of diversity, making it a stellar addition to any young reader’s collection.
Pages: 54 | ASIN: B09X5ZRMGN
Getting To The Future Together
Nurse Florence®, What is Arthritis? follows a group of students who seek out the school nurse to get more information on Arthritis after a science lesson. What was the inspiration for your story?
I wanted to have a small group of kids interact with a nurse regularly so I decided that an elementary school nurse was the best option. I promote diversity and inclusion so that’s why Jean is Caucasian, Condi is African American and Sonia is Hispanic. We are only getting to the future together.
What is your background and experience in writing, and how does it help you write the Nurse Florence series?
I happen to have three Masters degrees (which was originally unplanned), and I learned to write concisely and efficiently with those degrees. We are hoping to publish a new book every week and a half this year and have met our goal so far. I have to write efficiently and accurately to do this with my limited time since I work extra shifts at the hospital.
What is one thing that people point out after reading your book that surprises you?
At first, the surprise was how surprised parents were after they read the books with their children and stepped away learning something new since it is a kids book. I feel I may have found the “secret” to make the books entertaining for kids and adults alike.
What is one question you wish that someone would ask about your book series but nobody has? And what is the answer to that question?
Is there a group of people you wish you would have represented in the series? There are two: two other girls that are Asian and Indian since they represent so many people on Earth. The next book series, which will be about mental health, will be fully diverse.
Author Links: GoodReads | Facebook | Website
An A-Z Guide On What To Do
From High School to Uni: The Essential Student’s Guide to Moving into University is a step-by-step guide to help parents and students navigate the transition from high school to university. Why was this an important book for you to write?
When my first child was graduating from high school and preparing to set off to university, she was excited, nervous, and curious about what university life would be like. We began searching for guidance on how to prepare, both logistically and mentally, for this new adult stage of life, and it made me realize that no practical topics are taught at school, such as how to create and manage a budget, how to plan personal nutrition, how to shop for food and cook, how to sew on a button, iron a shirt, and do laundry—all the things one needs to know when becoming an adult and beginning independence away from home. It made me want to help others, and I wanted to write a book that would offer practical advice, useful tips, and personal insights to help parents and teens prepare for this new adventure and make the most of it.
There are many parenting and student forums on the Internet with tons of personal advice from well-meaning people, but there is no one-stop shop giving an A-Z guide on what to do, when, how, and why. I noted every step of my children’s installations in and out of universities in England, France, and Switzerland, made checklists and templates, and built this into a step-by-step guide to help students and parents navigate their own journey.
What were some ideas that were important for you to share in this book?
The ideas I wanted to capture were practical tips that a parent may not think about or have time to teach their teen before they leave home, such as:
- How to manage your finances, pay bills, select utility providers;
- How to pack and set up your dorm or apartment
- How to deal with room-mates and landlords, negotiate a lease/rental agreement, and associated responsibilities;
- How to manage your mental health, studies and social life
- How to shop with a student budget, efficiently store food within student quarters, meal prep, and maintain a balanced diet.
- And laundry—not just HOW to do it, but when (there is a secret to this!).
What is one piece of advice you would want to give parents entering this stage of life before sending their child off into the world?
While From High School to Uni speaks to students, I actually wrote it with parents in mind. Let’s face it, your teen has just gone through an intense period of cramming for exams and is just looking forward to enjoying a summer of freedom before taking up serious studies again and potentially moving to another country or part of the country. They are not thinking about how they will survive and thrive in a new environment. But parents are more inclined to think ahead, so this book is for parents to read too. Forewarned is forearmed, I always say. If you know what to expect, you are better prepared, less stressed, can plan efficiently in advance, spread the cost of buying items for college across several months to help you budget effectively, and ease into the transition serenely.
One piece of advice I would want to give parents entering this stage of life is to trust their children and support them in their choices. Going to university is a big step for both the child and the parent, and it can be hard to let go and let them grow. But it’s also an exciting time for them to discover themselves, learn new things, and pursue their dreams. As a parent, you can help them by being supportive, encouraging, respectful, and understanding. You can also stay in touch with them regularly, but not too much. Give them space and freedom to explore their new environment, but also let them know that you’re always there for them if they need you (and not just when they need a budget top-up!).
What were some goals you set for yourself as a writer in this book?
To be honest, I didn’t expect to write this with a successful publication in mind, so my goals were just to write in a clear, concise, pragmatic, and engaging way that would be appealing to both teenagers and parents. I felt like my anecdotes would be relatable, illustrate my points, and enable readers to connect well. I also have a passion for helping people, and if I have done the work so you don’t have to, why not benefit from my experience?
Author Links: GoodReads | Facebook | Website | Instagram
From High School to Uni is an A-Z guide to help students (and helpful parents) navigate the confusing path to a new life on campus – where to start, how to plan and get organized, what to pack, what NOT to pack, and other advice such as opening a bank account, renting accommodation, shopping and food prep – every aspect of student life is covered in this easy to read guide book.
LITERARY TITAN 