Blog Archives
Widows Among Us: Stories and Insights
Widows Among Us: Stories and Insights is an enlightening book that navigates the complex, emotional, and often isolating experience of widowhood. Written by three women—Rebecca LaChance, Karen Justice, and Karen Smith Racicot—this book blends memoir, practical advice, and heartfelt wisdom. The authors take turns sharing their individual journeys, exploring not only their losses but also their resilience. The book also serves as a guide for preparation, support, and community, offering invaluable insights into navigating life before and after the loss of a spouse.
What stands out immediately is the raw honesty in the storytelling. Karen’s story, for instance, opens with an ordinary Monday, one that quickly transforms into a nightmare as she receives the news of her husband’s sudden death. The details are gut-wrenching—the disbelief, the shock, the immediate practical concerns of running a business and comforting her daughters. The way she describes the moment the police officers entered her office is particularly striking. This kind of straightforward yet deeply moving prose is what makes the book powerful. It doesn’t sugarcoat grief, nor does it drown in it. Instead, it lays out the pain and the struggle in a way that feels relatable.
The second part of the book shifts from personal narratives to a more practical approach—preparing for widowhood before it happens. This section is invaluable, not just for widows but for any woman in a marriage or long-term partnership. The book breaks down financial planning, legal documents, and the importance of knowing everything about household mechanics. The “Black Book” concept, a place to store all essential passwords and critical documents, is one of the best takeaways.
Another incredibly poignant section is Part Three, where the emotional and psychological aspects of widowhood are explored. It’s not just about sadness; it’s about struggling to remember things, making mistakes, feeling overwhelmed by small decisions. There’s a beautiful passage that compares grief to a swirling storm, with moments of calm that trick the widow into thinking she’s okay before another wave crashes down. This depiction resonated with me. The chapter on reframing guilt also stood out, as it acknowledges the self-imposed pressure widows feel to grieve “correctly.” The book reassures readers that whatever they are feeling is valid, and that healing doesn’t follow a set timeline.
The final section is a must-read for anyone who has a widow in their life. “How to Help a Widow” is full of practical, compassionate advice for friends and family. One of the most touching ideas is the suggestion to “remember with her”—to share stories of her spouse, rather than avoid the subject out of discomfort. It’s a reminder that grief doesn’t disappear after the initial shock, and neither should support.
Widows Among Us is a book that should be on the shelf of anyone who wants to understand the impact of losing a spouse. It’s heartbreaking, yes, but it’s also hopeful, full of wisdom, and deeply human. The mix of personal stories and practical advice makes it both an emotional read and a useful guide.
Pages: 208 | ASIN : B0DS6JP4DH
So Close, Yet So Far Away
Finding Max is a memoir detailing your relentless decades-long search for your father’s birth family, uncovering hidden truths, confronting painful secrets, and redefining the meaning of family along the way. Why was this an important book for you to write?
After a couple of deaths in the family, only a few months apart, I felt dread and urgency to tell the story of Finding Max. I had wanted to tell the story before, but I was putting it off until “I had more time in life.” Unfortunately, the deaths of those close family members made me realize that time may not be my friend, and I’d better do this while it’s fresh and raw.
What was the most surprising discovery you made during your search for your father’s birth family?
There are so many actually. Every discovery was something I wasn’t necessarily expecting. But I think the most surprising thing was the connection to the birth father that was absolutely never expected, so close, yet so far away.
If you could go back and give yourself one piece of advice at the start of your search, what would it be?
One piece of advice is tough. Throughout my book, I give reflections on lessons learned, and there are so many. But if I had to go back and give one, I would tell myself to spend more time with my dad’s birth family after I’d found them, visit them more often, and take vacations with them, because time is stolen from you and you never know how much time you really have.
How has this journey changed your perspective on identity and what it means to be “family”?
Family is not something you’re born into, it’s something you make, and not necessarily by blood. You’re not bound by birthright.
Author Links: GoodReads | Facebook | Website | Amazon
As a teen, Jennifer Wallig learned that her father was adopted, turning what she thought she knew about her family history—and identity—upside down. Her life had been turbulent as the child of divorced parents inundated with their own struggles. These revelations changed everything.
In Finding Max, Jennifer shares her journey to find her father’s birth family, uncovering surprising secrets and unsettling lies. This is the inspirational story of a daughter devoted to her beloved father, a man burdened with PTSD and addiction who never felt fully accepted by his adopted family. It’s the story of unwavering determination to uncover the truth and life-affirming joy found in unexpected places. Raw, vulnerable, and thought-provoking, Finding Max is a must-read memoir for genealogists, ancestry enthusiasts, and anyone yearning to rediscover the power of family.
A Multipronged Approach
Mighty Joe Mui: The Untold Underdog Story at Cornell tells the story of a Chinese-Canadian soccer player who defied expectations at every turn and became a prominent athlete and successful entrepreneur. Why was this an important book for you to write?
It was very important for me to write this book primarily because of its invaluable lessons. Students, athletes, and entrepreneurs can learn so much from this memoir about admirable character traits such as perseverance, courage, and integrity. As a teacher interacting with students, I see and hear their struggles on a daily basis. Meeting Joe Mui and hearing his story was an excellent way to address the critical needs of students today. When Joe and I discussed his memoir, we developed the book with one goal in mind… to inspire. One reason why this book has been a success with readers of various backgrounds is because Joe’s stories are relatable to so many people outside the soccer firmament. “Mighty Joe Mui” transcends race, religion, and gender. His story connects with readers of various backgrounds because of his struggles and timeless advice.
What were some ideas that were important for you to share in this book?
Joe and I implemented a multipronged approach to reach our readers. Joe’s life story combined with my field experience in education and film/TV were conducive to writing the ideal book for the “edutainment” genre. Our goal was to combine education with entertainment to produce a text that would engage readers through Joe’s inspirational life story. Ultimately, we published a book recognized under four genres: Biography/Memoir, Sports, Business, and Self-Help/Motivational.
The final chapter of Mighty Joe Mui includes educational resources such as graphic organizers. Graphic organizers in the classroom are effective tools used for helping students who struggle in the area of organizing themselves.
An implicit message behind this book is to be respectful of anyone you interact with. Joe met countless individuals long before they became influential household names in business, sports, and entertainment. Several of these individuals remained supportive of Joe’s endeavours and initiatives because of his humility exhibited decades prior. To this day, because of Joe’s rapport, he can still pick up a phone or shoot a text that’ll be responded to by such influential figures because of his humble and respectful nature.
The most important theme in Mighty Joe Mui is to persevere. Joe and I wanted to inspire our readers to remain tenacious in their pursuit of achieving dreams! Simply put, never giving up is the answer to reaching your goals.
What was the most challenging part of writing this biography, and what was the most rewarding?
The most challenging part of writing this biography was determining what risks to take. I’ve learned that in the creative world, one cannot satisfy everyone. And I am fine with that. I completely understand. It’s an aspect of art that I respect. For instance, I attempted to use a creative approach while storytelling that entailed jumping back/forth in Joe’s chronological timeline. While some readers enjoyed this aspect of storytelling, others preferred sticking to a more linear timeline. I embrace feedback, but for any aspiring writer who might be reading this interview, be mindful that risk-taking comes with the territory.
Another challenging aspect of writing this biography was making decisions on omissions. There were interesting side notes and stories that could have added intrigue, but to avoid controversy, we remained focused on conveying what was pertinent to Joe’s life story.
The most rewarding part of writing this book is being able to offer a beneficial text to readers. Another rewarding part of writing this book was being able to tap into the creative area of my mind. Because of this project, I’ve become more sharp in writing, marketing, and negotiating. Unfortunately, we live in a world where you’re pigeonholed and even excoriated for wanting to explore avenues outside of “your lane.” This project gave me the opportunity to explore my potential outside the “norm.” I will always be thankful for this project.
What do you hope is one thing readers take away from Joe Mui’s story?
Inspiration! Joe and I want our readers to leave this experience feeling inspired.
Author Links: GoodReads | Facebook | Website | Amazon
Mighty Joe Mui – The Untold Underdog Story At Cornell
Some stories stick with you because they’re about more than just one person. Mighty Joe Mui is one of those books. It’s a memoir that follows the life of Joe Mui, a five-foot-three Chinese-Canadian soccer player who defied expectations at every turn. From his humble beginnings in China to making a name for himself in NCAA soccer at Cornell and beyond, Joe’s story is an underdog tale in the truest sense. But this book isn’t just about sports. It’s about grit, resilience, and breaking barriers—often without even realizing it. The book takes us through his journey, from playing “crab soccer” in Hong Kong to facing off against the legendary Pelé, all while navigating life as an immigrant, an athlete, and eventually, a successful entrepreneur.
One of the things I loved about Mighty Joe Mui is the way it captures Joe’s relentless drive. The guy simply did not know how to quit. Even when he faced obstacles, like language barriers, financial struggles, and people telling him he was too small to compete, he found ways to push through. The book is filled with moments that showcase this, like when he first arrived in Canada and had to sharpen a pencil in class. That may sound small, but the teacher forced him to ask for it in English, something he barely spoke. It was sink or swim, and Joe chose to swim. Later, when he played for Cornell, he didn’t just compete, he dominated, earning All-American honors and leading his team to success despite being smaller than most of his opponents. The storytelling in these moments makes you root for Joe, even if you don’t know a thing about soccer.
The writing shines when it explores Joe’s life off the field. He was an immigrant kid figuring out a new world, a student navigating Ivy League academics, and later, a businessman making his mark in real estate. The book highlights how his discipline in sports translated into other areas of life. One part that stuck with me was when Joe, despite his busy schedule, still found time to mentor young athletes, passing down what he had learned. He never lost sight of where he came from, and that humility makes his story even more compelling.
While I enjoyed the book, I felt it sometimes jumps around a bit, especially when it mixes past and present moments. One second, we’re with young Joe in Hong Kong, the next, we’re with older Joe reflecting on meeting Ted Turner. It’s an interesting approach, but at times, I wished it stuck to a more linear timeline. But it’s a minor issue in an otherwise engaging read. The writing is conversational, which makes it easy to follow, and there are plenty of funny, heartwarming, and even frustrating moments that make you feel like you’re right there with Joe through it all.
Mighty Joe Mui is perfect for sports fans, but even if you don’t care about soccer, there’s a lot to take away from Joe’s story. If you love underdog tales, immigrant success stories, or just reading about people who refuse to let circumstances define them, this book is worth your time. It’s about perseverance, adapting to change, and proving people wrong.
Pages: 238 | ISBN : 1738328406
Ice and Fire: Thawing a Murderer’s Heart
Ice and Fire: Thawing a Murderer’s Heart is a riveting memoir that navigates the tumultuous life of Baldur Einarsson, a man whose odyssey from chaos and violence to redemption captivates and inspires in equal measure. Set against the stark and icy landscapes of Iceland, the narrative opens with Baldur’s harrowing childhood, a period scarred by abuse, neglect, and despair. These formative years propel him into the shadowy abyss of Iceland’s criminal underworld. Baldur’s descent into addiction and crime unfolds with haunting clarity.
The memoir paints a stark portrait of a life spiraling into darkness, punctuated by moments of brutal violence and profound loss. Yet, it does not linger in despair. Instead, the focus shifts to Baldur’s astonishing transformation, chronicling his rise from the depths of hopelessness to a life filled with purpose, healing, and an unshakeable belief in the possibility of change. Grace, love, and faith emerge as unexpected yet powerful catalysts in his journey toward redemption. Through raw, unvarnished storytelling and vividly drawn scenes, Baldur invites readers into his fractured world. He bares his pain, his struggles, and his triumphs with remarkable candor. This openness not only sheds light on the enduring scars of trauma but also underscores the resilience of the human spirit and its boundless capacity for renewal. From the first page, Baldur Einarsson plunges readers into a visceral world of fear and survival. The icy backdrop of Iceland is brought to life in prose that is both clear and hauntingly evocative. The depiction of his abusive childhood is unflinching yet never gratuitous, laying the foundation for the extraordinary redemption that follows.
Baldur’s honesty as an author is striking. He confronts his past without embellishment or self-pity, allowing readers to fully grasp the weight of his struggles while maintaining an unrelenting sense of authenticity. The turning point in Baldur’s life—his path toward redemption—is as gripping as the chaos that preceded it. Love and faith are central themes, seamlessly interwoven into the narrative without veering into sentimentality or preachiness. As Baldur’s story shifts from despair to hope, the writing evolves, mirroring his emotional journey. What begins as stark and unyielding prose transforms into something warm and introspective, a reflection of his healing and self-discovery.
Despite its emotional intensity, Ice and Fire ultimately leaves readers with a profound sense of hope. It reminds us that redemption is always within reach and that even the most broken lives can be pieced back together. The memoir transcends its genre, becoming an invitation to believe in the transformative powers of love, faith, and perseverance. Baldur’s story resonates deeply, lingering in the heart and mind long after the final page is turned. For readers who appreciate true crime, tales of personal transformation, or deeply human narratives, Ice and Fire is a must-read. Baldur Einarsson’s journey is a haunting, uplifting, and unforgettable testament to the enduring strength of the human spirit.
Pages: 292 | ASIN : B0D3WW21DM
Scrambled or Sunny-Side Up?: Living Your Best Life after Losing Your Greatest Love
Loren Ridinger, a lifelong entrepreneur and philanthropist, is best known for co-founding Market America and SHOP.COM alongside her husband, JR Ridinger. Their story began when Loren met JR at just 18 years old, drawn into his magnetic energy and shared vision. From that moment, they built a partnership anchored in love, trust, and unwavering encouragement. JR’s ambition gave birth to Market America and SHOP.COM, a groundbreaking global e-commerce platform designed to empower entrepreneurs and offer consumers a smarter way to shop.
In Scrambled or Sunny-Side Up, Ridinger offers a deeply personal reflection on their extraordinary relationship, their journey as business partners, and her struggle to navigate the world after JR’s sudden death in August 2022. Raw and unfiltered, the memoir captures life both before and after his passing. Ridinger candidly shares her regrets—moments left unsaid, sentiments unspoken—while urging readers to embrace life and love fully, never assuming tomorrow is guaranteed.
Ridinger’s narrative walks a delicate line between relatability and privilege. She speaks earnestly about her pain and healing, yet the luxurious backdrop of private yachts and multimillion-dollar homes may feel distant to the average reader. Still, the universal emotions of love, grief, and uncertainty transcend the material world. These are feelings we all know—loss that shakes us, love that defines us, and the struggle to rediscover ourselves in the aftermath. While some readers may find Ridinger’s lifestyle detached from their own realities, her vulnerability resonates. She does not shy away from questions of identity, purpose, and healing. Her journey—marked by profound sorrow and the search for meaning without her partner—offers inspiration for anyone who has loved, lost, and struggled to move forward.
Scrambled or Sunny-Side Up is more than a memoir. It’s a call to live intentionally, to love deeply, and to value every fleeting moment. Ridinger’s story is a reminder that even in unimaginable loss, there is hope, resilience, and the power to carry on. Whether you’ve experienced a loss as seismic as Loren Ridinger’s or simply grappled with change, her reflections will touch your heart and encourage you to live without regrets.
Pages: 208 | ASIN : B0DDJJF81D
Level Up! 50 Game-Changing Life Skills for Young Adults+
Level Up! 50 Game-Changing Life Skills for Adults+, by Steve M. Scott, is an invaluable guide designed to equip young adults with the practical skills needed to navigate the complexities of adulthood. Transitioning into this phase is anything but straightforward. Friends diverge onto different paths—some pursue further education, others launch their careers, and a few even start families. In this whirlwind, there’s no universal blueprint for living life to the fullest. However, Scott emphasizes that honing new skills and nurturing individual talents are critical for growth and self-assurance. His book delivers an impressive toolkit for success, covering everything from boosting mental acuity and fostering a resilient mindset to staying physically healthy and mastering financial literacy, including budgeting, investing, and planning for the future.
What truly sets Scott’s guide apart from others is its holistic approach. He leaves no stone unturned, addressing every realm young adults might grapple with. Scott recognizes that thriving in adult life demands more than just financial savvy; it requires a well-rounded strategy that includes emotional intelligence, critical and creative thinking, physical wellness, and mental resilience. The emphasis on maintaining a balance between a strong mind and a healthy body stands out, a reminder of how intertwined these elements are in achieving long-term success. Often, we neglect essential aspects like proper nutrition, exercise, and rest while trying to excel in other areas, but Scott underscores the importance of prioritizing them all.
As a college student myself, I found the financial guidance particularly eye-opening. Stepping into adulthood in a time of rising inflation feels daunting, and Scott’s straightforward advice on saving, investing, and even planning for retirement brought clarity. I had never seriously considered retirement planning before, but this book illuminated why it matters and how even small, informed actions can make a difference. Scott manages to make these concepts less intimidating and more accessible, empowering readers to approach financial decisions with confidence. Drawing from my background in psychology, I can vouch for the depth and practical relevance of the skills Scott shares. His insights are well-chosen, and designed to assist anyone feeling stuck or falling behind compared to their peers. He doesn’t promise an easy solution—life is unpredictable and messy—but he does offer a fresh perspective, instilling hope and a proactive mindset for the uncertainties of adulthood. This book is not just about surviving but thriving, and it encourages readers to view life as a series of opportunities rather than obstacles.
For anyone feeling overwhelmed or in need of a spark to propel them forward, Level Up! 50 Game-Changing Life Skills for Adults+ is a must-read. Scott’s guide is more than inspirational; it’s practical, actionable, and deeply motivating. If you’re searching for the push you need to conquer the adult world with confidence and vigor, this book will equip you with the skills to win in every aspect of life. Highly recommended.
Pages: 346 | ASIN : B0DHYN9P8N
In Search of You; How To Find Joy When Doing More Isn’t Doing It Anymore
In Search of You, by Kasey Compton, is a deeply introspective memoir that explores the journey of self-discovery through the lens of childhood memories, intergenerational trauma, and personal growth. Compton’s raw and unfiltered narrative offers readers a candid look into her life, revealing her struggles and triumphs in a way that feels both personal and universal. This is not just a recounting of past events but an invitation for readers to reflect on their own lives, seeking greater understanding, healing, and self-appreciation.
Compton’s writing style is engaging and conversational, effortlessly drawing readers into her world. Her vivid descriptions bring memories to life—whether it’s the distinct smell of cigarette smoke in a beat-up Oldsmobile or the serene, sun-drenched afternoons spent in her grandmother’s garden. These sensory details make the past feel alive and immediate, pulling readers into the emotional landscape of her story. Structurally, the book alternates between past and present, a technique that mirrors the therapeutic process of revisiting and reprocessing formative childhood experiences. This narrative style adds emotional depth and allows readers to experience Compton’s vulnerability as she works through her memories.
The memoir is not only personal but profoundly brave. Compton tackles heavy, complex themes such as parental absence, emotional neglect, and the lingering effects of trauma. Through her therapeutic journey, she uncovers how these early experiences have shaped her adult identity. Her recollections are often poignant and, at times, heartbreaking, especially as she reflects on her mother’s struggles with depression and her own yearning for emotional connection. The inclusion of dialogues between Compton and her therapist offers readers an insightful look into the therapeutic process, providing a unique structure that allows readers to witness her real-time thoughts and emotions as she navigates her past. Compton delves into her mother’s and grandmother’s lives, exposing how trauma reverberates through families, adding layers of complexity and depth to the narrative. This generational perspective enhances the memoir’s emotional resonance, making it a rich exploration of how we are shaped by both our histories and our efforts to break free from them.
What makes In Search of You particularly powerful is Compton’s honesty. Her willingness to share her most painful experiences is both unsettling and empowering. The emotional weight of the story is palpable, and readers will feel her courage as she unpacks her past and strives to heal. This balance of pain and hope is what makes the book so impactful. While Compton revisits her wounds, she also demonstrates the power of healing and reclaiming one’s sense of self, making the book not only cathartic but also uplifting.
In Search of You is a compelling memoir that masterfully blends personal narrative with psychological insight. Compton’s writing is intimate and captivating, drawing readers into her world as she reflects on her past and works toward healing. This book is an excellent choice for anyone interested in mental health, self-discovery, and the journey of healing from trauma. As Compton breaks the cycles of the past and emerges more in touch with herself, readers are encouraged to embark on their own journeys of introspection and transformation.
Pages: 272 | ASIN : B0C7TF273M
LITERARY TITAN 