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How Boys Learn
Jeff Kirchick’s How Boys Learn is an intriguing anthology of seven short stories, each delving into the nuanced experiences of boys and men from diverse backgrounds. The collection thoughtfully explores the often-overlooked vulnerabilities and challenges faced by males in a society that holds steadfast to traditional notions of masculinity. Kirchick masterfully crafts tales that range from the poignant journey of a child wrestler enduring harsh fasting regimes to the emotional turbulence of coping with a friend’s loss.
What sets this collection apart is Kirchick’s adeptness in language and narrative style. He skillfully tailors his writing to suit each story, employing a range of techniques from diary entries and nonlinear narratives to the occasional use of second-person perspective. Despite the brevity of each tale, the characters are rendered with remarkable authenticity, reflecting their ages and backgrounds with precision and empathy.
The stories in How Boys Learn span a spectrum of settings and timeframes, from relatable, everyday scenarios to an imaginative foray into a futuristic dystopia. They transcend their brief format, leaving a profound impression on the reader. Kirchick avoids predictable conclusions, inviting readers to find meaning in the characters’ journeys rather than the outcomes. Kirchick does not shy away from complex and often dark themes such as toxic masculinity, victimization, sexuality, temptation, and guilt. His exploration of these topics is handled with an underlying optimism, highlighting the necessity of confronting societal issues related to gender bias.
How Boys Learn is a compelling read that offers valuable insights not just for men, but for all readers, encouraging a deeper understanding of the male experience in contemporary society.
Pages : 180 | ASIN : B0CP86VLLR
Someone Who Gives Lovingly and Freely
Santa Claus: The Beginning is the enchanting story of a young man tasked with assuming the role of Santa Claus and the adventures and friendships that follow as he realizes his destiny. What inspired you to write this reimagining of the age-old tale of Santa Claus?
The inspiration came from a dream I had. A voice said, “Terry, write a new version of A Christmas Carol, but make the main character the man who would become Santa Claus.”
I then thought about what kind of man would become Santa and what kind of boy grows up to be that man.
And more importantly, how and who convinces the man to become Santa.
What was your favorite scene in this story and why?
My favorite scene in this story is Santa and his Chief Elf, Pinnacle, discussing Pixies and pixie dust used in some spaghetti. I thought it was a fun way to show the loyalty of the two characters and some of their personalities.
What, if any, types of challenges did you face as you created this new version of a beloved classic?
The key challenge was to ensure that my new additions to the traditional story of Santa would fit and make sense. I wanted the reader to think to themselves, “I understand how these events add some fun information and more dimension to Santa.”
Giving a definition of the name of Santa Claus was important. Someone who gives lovingly and freely.
I also hoped to introduce some new characters to the story who would embody the traits of Santa.
What is the next book you are working on, and when will it be out?
That is a good question. I’ll have to get back to you on that.
Author Links: GoodReads
Follow John as he encounters magical elves and meets Jessica, the manager of Santa’s castle at the North Pole. Experience the excitement of Santa’s first global trip on Christmas Eve, 1840, as the story reaches its heartwarming conclusion.
This enchanting tale unveils the origins of a talented toy maker, his special abilities, the loyal reindeer by his side, and the devoted friendships that shape his destiny. Suitable for all ages, this classic story is a delightful adventure filled with magic, imagination, and the spirit of Christmas.
Frank’s Shadow
In Frank’s Shadow, Doug McIntyre artfully intertwines the lives of Danny McKenna and his late father, set against the backdrop of a complex family dynamic and the gritty streets of New York City. The novel opens with Danny, newly married, grappling with the sudden death of his father. Tasked with delivering a eulogy, he faces not only the challenge of articulating his feelings but also the scrutiny of his discerning Irish family.
An intriguing thread runs through the narrative: the coincidence of Danny’s father passing on the same date as Frank Sinatra, Danny’s idol. This parallel prompts a deeper exploration into his father’s past, a journey that reveals more mysteries and complexities than Danny anticipated. McIntyre’s narrative style is reminiscent of the early works of Paul Auster, the poignant storytelling of Frank McCourt in Angela’s Ashes, and the raw realism found in Charles Bukowski’s novels. The book navigates themes of alcoholism, family discord, and buried secrets without veering into the realm of the overly sentimental. McIntyre skillfully balances these heavier elements with well-timed dark humor and insightful character development. The story unfolds layer by layer, revealing incredible depth. While it initially appears to be a journey of self-discovery for Danny, it gradually becomes clear that it is as much, if not more, about his enigmatic father. Central to the novel is the exploration of identity and the realization that our surface impressions of people can vastly differ from their true selves.
McIntyre’s work stands out for its robust characterizations, heartfelt emotion, and a confident mastery of language. Frank’s Shadow is not just a compelling read; it is a testament to the power of nuanced storytelling and character exploration in contemporary fiction.
Pages: 272 | ASIN : B0BZNR7KKS
Mr. Fox Sells Pockets
Mr. Fox Sells Pockets, written by Mark Dantzler, is an engaging children’s book that weaves a tale of Mr. Fox, a character whose shrewd business strategy revolves around selling pockets to the townspeople, irrespective of their needs. This narrative, rich with themes of greed and deception, gives young readers a window into a world where cleverness is met with community wisdom.
The book is not only a story but also a visual delight. Its pages are adorned with bright, vivid illustrations to captivate young minds and spark conversations. The use of color is particularly noteworthy, bringing each scene to life and adding depth to the story. At the heart of this tale is Mr. Fox, depicted with a cunning personality, highlighting the consequences of prioritizing personal gain over relationships. The character’s journey is a poignant reminder of the importance of honesty and integrity. Dantzler’s storytelling skillfully imparts these values, making the moral of the story accessible and enjoyable for its young audience. As young readers follow Mr. Fox’s misadventures, they are subtly introduced to concepts of right and wrong and the downfalls associated with greed. This book not only entertains but also educates, providing a valuable lesson in a fun and thought-provoking format.
Mr. Fox Sells Pockets by Mark Dantzler takes young readers on a colorful journey into ethical storytelling. The vivid illustrations and a narrative containing a moral lesson make it an ideal read for young minds beginning to explore the complexities of right and wrong. Dantzler encourages dialogue between children and adults, making it not just a story to be read but an experience to be shared.
Pages: 38 | ASIN : B0CLKZBVRG
Sir Dee-O-Gee; The Dog who Saved my Life
Sir Dee-O-Gee: The Dog Who Saved My Life, by Angel Dunworth, is a heartwarming children’s book revolving around Anna Saint Anne, an elderly woman, her family, and an unexpectedly endearing canine companion. The book opens with Anna’s life with her daughter Layla and grandson Ellis, highlighting their close bond through simple pleasures like playing cards and enjoying snacks. The narrative takes a turn when Ellis introduces a pit bull mix, Sir Dee-O-Gee, into Anna’s life, initially as a temporary arrangement. This introduction marks the beginning of Anna’s journey toward embracing new experiences and shaking up her previously routine life.
Dunworth’s writing style is notable for its realistic portrayal of characters, infused with subtle humor and irony, making the story both engaging and relatable. This transformation in Anna’s life, driven by the companionship of Sir Dee-O-Gee, is skillfully depicted, illustrating how this new relationship leads her to venture out of her comfort zone. In addition, her interactions with her neighbor, Mr. Finchley, add another layer of warmth to Dunworth’s narrative.
The canine character Sir Dee-O-Gee is a standout, particularly memorable for his distinct smile, which adds a unique charm to the story. The connection to a real-life dog, Dundee, whose photograph is featured in the book, enhances the emotional impact of the tale.
Dunworth showcases Anna’s reflections on her past and her gradual embrace of new adventures and friendships. The story subtly conveys the message that aging is not just about looking back but also about adapting and finding joy in new experiences. The blend of emotional elements like nostalgia and happiness is seamlessly executed, making the story appealing to a wide audience.
I recommend Sir Dee-O-Gee: The Dog Who Saved My Life for dog enthusiasts and anyone looking for a tale that captures the essence of overcoming life’s hurdles with a positive spirit. It’s an engaging read that beautifully balances emotional depth with light-hearted moments, meriting a solid recommendation for its well-crafted storyline and endearing characters.
Pages: 160 | ISBN : 978-1956581287
Support Indie Artists
Knowing Irv: The Life and Art of Irving Schiffer shares with readers the lesser-known areas of your father’s life and his passion for artwork, both written and with various media methods. Why was this an important book for you to write?
The year 2022 was the 50th year of his passing. I was 14 at the time. He was a writer, a painter, a photographer, and more…but, of course, he was my dad, and not a day goes by that I don’t miss him terribly. But in 2022, my brother and I wanted to put his legacy out in the public for people to learn about what a wonderful and creative soul he was. I began to gather his paintings, his stories and cartoons, had over 300 slides converted to digital, and before I knew it, there was a substantial body of work.
It was as much a personal passion project as it was about sharing his art with the world. I think that, too often, we look at art and don’t see the person behind it. Irv Schiffer expressed himself in so many ways that I felt it was the most important thing for me to show others his personality and joy through his art.
When you and your brother were creating this book and researching all of his work, did you find anything that surprised you about your father?
We started this as, not a book, but as something to do to collect our dad’s output in one place. But my brother had just turned 70, and I wanted to surprise him by completing this for his enjoyment. We were both extremely surprised at the amount of material there was. Specifically, I was surprised to learn he had a very renowned literary agent at the time and also that he had just pitched out a book exposing the private surveillance industry for the shady things that were going on at the time. I never knew about that.
Irv Schiffer was a true Renaissance man who created his art using diverse methods and media, from the written word to physical art. What is your favorite work of art that your father created and why?
He was a songwriter and lyricist too, so I think his song “Ain’t You Got a Pencil,” which could have stood shoulder to shoulder with any of the witty songs of the Great American Songbook, is my favorite of all.
What is one thing you hope readers take away from your father’s story?
To cherish authentic art from unknowns wherever you find it and to support indie artists!
Author Links: GoodReads | Twitter | Website | Amazon
Here, for the first time, is a collection of all the paintings we could find, a record of his short stories, trade magazine articles, photos, a full (unpublished) manuscript and a traditionally published book, line drawings for a detective agency newsletter, and even cartoons. While not complete (he gave away or sold some paintings that we have no record of), it is a healthy and appreciable account of a beautiful, artistic soul who was our father. These works will hopefully paint their own picture of why Knowing Irv was a cherished and once-in-a-lifetime experience.
Compelling Characters
The Wages of Kin follows a naval officer’s widow who ends up on the run from an oppressive government force while trying to protect her children. What was the inspiration for the setup of your story?
I always wanted to craft a fantasy world different from the traditional medieval setting. With that, I was always drawn to maritime stories involving high-seas adventure and the people involved. Telling the story from multiple points of view helped show the world and all its many facets. However, none of that matters if you don’t create compelling characters to usher that story. Everything starts and ends with the Battiers. When I figured out who they were and the uphill battle they were going through, I knew I had the foundation of my story.
Did you plan the tone and direction of the novel before writing, or did it come out organically as you were writing?
I had an idea of what I was going for when I started writing, but the story grew and evolved in the telling. The world and number of characters expanded, and so did the journeys of the Battier family.
What were some themes that were important for you to explore in this book?
I believe family and the coming-of-age aspect that comes with that universal theme is the novel’s heart.
Will this novel be the start of a series, or are you working on a different story?
The Wages of Kin is book one in the Cannon Fire Plot Series.
Author Links: GoodReads | Twitter | Website
LITERARY TITAN 
Random² Musings: A Left Hemisphere Continuum
Dec 23
Posted by Literary Titan
Random² Musings: A Left Hemisphere Continuum, presents a tapestry of personal reflections, experiences, and viewpoints from Mike Joyner on a variety of subjects including religion, social media, family dynamics, relationships, and politics. Joyner, with his accumulated wisdom, offers a transparent and unreserved discourse, unafraid to delve into topics that may spark controversy or dissent. His perspective on American politics, for example, provides a unique angle, enriching the reader’s understanding, even when one may not align with his views.
One of the book’s strengths lies in its exploration of human connections and the ephemeral nature of life, emphasizing the significance of nurturing enduring relationships. Joyner’s commentary on societal changes in America also paints a vivid picture of the nation’s evolution and shifting ideologies. Particularly noteworthy is the chapter “Truisms for Generations,” which serves as a repository of life lessons and social etiquette, alongside valuable insights gleaned from various experiences.
Joyner’s identity as a hunter adds an intriguing dimension, with his hunting narratives offering a blend of the personal and the adventurous. The book’s tone strikes a balance between being personal and informative, creating an engaging and thought-provoking read. While Joyner presents his thoughts without imposing them, I feel some readers might find it a challenge to reconcile with some of his ideas. However, this aspect only adds to the book’s appeal as a candid and unfiltered exploration of diverse topics.
Random² Musings: A Left Hemisphere Continuum, by Mike Joyner, stands out for those in search of a book that breaks away from conventional themes, offering fresh perspectives on critical issues like politics, well-being, family, and more. This book is a commendable choice for readers looking to engage with a range of ideas and possibly revisit them for a deeper understanding.
Pages: 159 | ASIN : B0CK4WH86B
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