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Literary Titan Book Award: Nonfiction
The Literary Titan Book Award recognizes outstanding nonfiction books that demonstrate exceptional quality in writing, research, and presentation. This award is dedicated to authors who excel in creating informative, enlightening, and engaging works that offer valuable insights. Recipients of this award are commended for their ability to transform complex topics into accessible and compelling narratives that captivate readers and enhance our understanding.
Award Recipients
Visit the Literary Titan Book Awards page to see award information.
Leadership Is a Holistic Endeavor
Seven Core Values To Become An Impactful Leader shows how Integrity, Learning, Excellence, Accountability, Determination, Empathy, and Respect form the foundation of authentic leadership. What inspired you to frame leadership around the acronym I-L.E.A.D.E.R.?
The acronym I-L.E.A.D.E.R. (Integrity, Learning, Excellence, Accountability, Determination, Empathy, and Respect) emerged from a deep desire to provide a memorable and actionable framework for aspiring and current leaders. My personal journey and extensive professional background revealed that these seven values are not merely abstract concepts but are foundational to sustained impact and thriving organizational cultures. I wanted to create a tool that leaders could easily internalize and apply daily, transforming their intentions into tangible actions that resonate deeply within their teams and communities. This framework serves as a constant reminder that leadership is a holistic endeavor, demanding both competence and compassion. It encapsulates the essence of what it means to truly guide and uplift others, offering a beacon for ethical and effective leadership. Embracing I-L.E.A.D.E.R. empowers you to lead with purpose, fostering environments where everyone can thrive.
How did your military background shape your perspective on softer values like empathy and respect, which many leaders overlook?
My military background has profoundly shaped my understanding of values like empathy and respect, demonstrating their critical role even in the most demanding situations. In high-stress scenarios, effective leadership requires not only command but also a genuine understanding of individual struggles and the fostering of cohesion. I learned that authentic leadership builds trust and resilience, transforming challenges into opportunities for growth and shared success. These “softer values” are not weaknesses; they are powerful catalysts for unity and collective achievement, essential for inspiring unwavering commitment and cultivating a truly impactful team. Experiencing the consequences of their absence firsthand solidified my conviction that empathy and respect are indispensable for genuine leadership, creating a powerful bond that transcends rank and ensures mission success. It is through these values that we unlock the full potential of every individual, fostering an environment where collaboration flourishes and spirits soar.
In your experience, which of the seven values do leaders struggle with most and why?
Leaders most frequently struggle with empathy among the seven core values because it demands vulnerability and a willingness to transcend one’s own perspective. Many leaders prioritize task accomplishment and measurable outcomes, inadvertently overlooking the importance of the human element. Developing empathy requires active listening, understanding diverse perspectives, and genuinely connecting with team members on an emotional level, which can feel challenging and time-consuming in fast-paced environments. However, neglecting empathy creates a disconnect, hindering psychological safety and ultimately stifling innovation and engagement within the team. Genuine empathy requires a conscious effort to step into another’s shoes, which, while challenging, unlocks unparalleled loyalty and commitment. It is the bridge that connects hearts and minds, forging a team that is not only productive but also deeply unified and resilient.
If someone only remembers one takeaway from Seven Core Values To Become An Impactful Leader, what do you hope it is?
If someone remembers only one takeaway from “Seven Core Values to Become an Impactful Leader,” I hope it is this: “Leadership is an act of service, rooted in consistently living your values.” It transcends titles and positions; it is about inspiring others, fostering growth, and creating a positive ripple effect through your actions and character. Your commitment to these core values defines your legacy and truly elevates your ability to make a meaningful difference in the lives of those you lead. This single realization empowers individuals to become beacons of positive influence, transforming every interaction into an opportunity for growth and inspiration. Embracing this principle means leading from the heart, knowing that genuine impact stems from a place of integrity and a selfless dedication to others’ success. This truth will guide you through any challenge, ensuring your leadership leaves an indelible mark of positive change.
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Dr. Gomez, a scholar-practitioner with a doctorate and multiple master’s degrees, meticulously outlines how these values translate into tangible leadership competencies. Each chapter offers practical strategies and real-world examples, enabling readers to internalize and apply these principles for immediate impact. This book serves as an indispensable compass, guiding aspiring and seasoned leaders toward a purposeful and impactful leadership journey, ultimately shaping a new generation of value-based practitioners.
Multilingual Connectors
Daisy Wu’s Multilingual Connectors is a heartfelt and eye-opening guide for non-native English speakers who want to thrive, not just survive, in multicultural settings. Blending personal experience with practical advice, Wu proposes a bold idea: that language proficiency is not the ultimate barrier to connection. Instead, mastering communication essentials, understanding human psychology, and developing self-awareness are far more crucial. Through her Multilingual Connectors (MLC) Framework, she lays out 12 game-changing principles to help others bridge cultural divides and build authentic relationships without chasing the mirage of “perfect English.”
Reading this book felt like sitting down for an honest, late-night talk with a friend who’s been through it all and figured some stuff out. Wu doesn’t sugarcoat anything. She talks openly about the insecurity, self-doubt, and exhaustion of constantly trying to sound native. She writes, “Life didn’t become better even when my English was better,” a statement that struck me with particular force. It is this level of vulnerability that lends the book its depth and emotional resonance. She describes rehearsing English lines alone in the shower and still feeling excluded in meetings despite her fluency. It made me reflect on the emotional cost of fitting in and the invisible weight of trying to sound like someone you’re not.
What stood out most was how Wu reframes language itself. Instead of idolizing flawless grammar, she zooms in on connection, making people feel seen, heard, and understood. The idea that “connection is a function of value” felt like a lightbulb moment. She reminds us that being relatable, warm, and real matters more than sounding polished. In fact, some of the most influential people she met didn’t speak perfect English, but they knew how to connect on a human level. Her emphasis on likeability, friendliness, relevance, empathy, and realness makes communication feel attainable rather than intimidating.
I found the book’s emphasis on inner development particularly compelling. Wu persuasively argues that “your connections are only as good as you,” positioning self-awareness, confidence, and emotional resilience as more critical than linguistic accuracy alone. Her assertion that “you don’t need to be 100% to give 100%” was especially impactful, prompting reflection on the many moments I hesitated to engage, waiting to feel more fluent or prepared. Rather than merely offering communication strategies, this book fosters a profound shift in perspective, encouraging readers to confront fear, embrace authenticity, and recognize their cultural identity as a strength rather than a hindrance.
Multilingual Connectors is a must-read for international students, immigrants, or really anyone navigating life in a second language. It’s uplifting, honest, and filled with practical takeaways. Wu isn’t just offering a framework; she’s offering hope and a much-needed reminder that connection doesn’t require perfection. If you’ve ever felt not good enough because of your accent or fluency, this book will feel like a warm, encouraging hand on your shoulder. It certainly did for me.
Pages: 268 | ISBN : 0645569186
Vanquishing Monsters A Companion Workbook to the Unvarnished Truth
“Vanquishing Monsters: A Companion Workbook to the Unvarnished Truth” is a deeply introspective and practical guide designed to accompany her memoir, “The Unvarnished Truth: Purpose in the Pain.” This workbook delves into complex issues such as pain, suicidal ideation, abuse, and personal empowerment. Each chapter introduces a theme, provides personal insights, and includes exercises and worksheets aimed at fostering self-discovery and resilience.
The workbook’s practical approach is one of its most compelling features. Hylton doesn’t just tell her story; she offers readers actionable tools to work through their challenges. For instance, in Chapter 1, “Unpacking Pain,” the author provides a nuanced exploration of pain, encouraging readers to reflect on their emotional and physical experiences. The inclusion of a multi-part self-assessment helps users identify the frequency of various aspects of pain, dissect emotions, and creatively express their pain. All of this helps make the abstract concept more tangible. This method of translating personal pain into something that can be actively worked on sets the tone for the entire workbook.
Hylton’s writing is authentic and empathetic, which makes the workbook feel like a conversation with a wise, understanding friend. Her candid reflections on overcoming suicidal ideation in Chapter 2 resonated deeply with me. She shares her own struggles and triumphs, making the exercises that follow, such as journaling and practicing gratitude, feel genuine and achievable. The personal anecdotes scattered throughout the workbook add a layer of relatability as well, transforming abstract self-help concepts into real-world applications.
Another chapter that touched me deeply is Chapter 12. This chapter is a deeply introspective and uplifting exploration of personal spirituality. Hylton deftly navigates the delicate balance between individual belief systems and universal spiritual concepts, making this chapter a serene and thought-provoking conclusion to the workbook. She encourages readers to engage in reflective practices such as meditation and prayer, offering various exercises catering to various spiritual traditions. Her compassionate approach to spirituality stands out, emphasizing personal connection and growth over dogma. The chapter includes practical tools for integrating spirituality into daily life, fostering a sense of peace and purpose that resonates beyond the pages.
“Vanquishing Monsters” is a valuable resource for anyone navigating the tumultuous waters of personal trauma and looking for a structured path toward healing. Its mix of introspective exercises and personal reflections makes it accessible and engaging. I recommend this workbook to those who have read Hylton’s memoir and are seeking a deeper understanding of their own experiences, as well as to anyone in need of practical tools for self-exploration and resilience. While some sections may be challenging, the overall tone is uplifting and supportive, making it a worthwhile companion on the journey to personal empowerment.
Pages: 144 | ASIN: B0CXXXZV3S
Incurable Positivity
April Sabral’s Incurable Positivity is an engaging and practical guide designed to usher readers into a state of enduring positivity. This book emerges as a star in a reality often shadowed by complexity and unpredictability, offering a wealth of insights and concrete steps to fortify resilience and foster an optimistic perspective on life. Sabral’s narrative is inviting and easily comprehensible, breaking down intricate psychological principles to accommodate readers at different stages of their personal growth.
Incurable Positivity delves deep into the mechanics of cultivating a positive mindset. Despite its seemingly lofty promise, the book delivers a systematic approach where each chapter incrementally builds on the last, ensuring a coherent and attainable progression. It spans a spectrum of strategies, from mindfulness and gratitude to cognitive reframing and nurturing a growth mindset. The text is peppered with real-world anecdotes and stories, enriching the material with relatability and practical application.
A key strength of the book lies in its comprehensive view of positivity. Sabral ventures beyond superficial advice, exploring the underlying causes of negative thinking and equipping readers with a thorough understanding of their psychological patterns. The interactive elements, such as exercises and prompts, transform the reading experience into an interactive journey, making the process of change engaging and hands-on. Sabral acknowledges that true transformation is a continuous endeavor, countering the myth of overnight change. This honest approach provides readers with a realistic pathway to positivity, emphasizing that persistence and practice are the cornerstones of a truly optimistic mindset.
Incurable Positivity is essential for anyone intent on overcoming negativity and cultivating a life marked by positivity and purpose. It is an invaluable asset for those navigating personal hurdles, professional aspirations, or simply seeking a brighter outlook on life.
Pages: 113 | ASIN: B0BYVSRJFP
Life Magic Mastery for Moms
In Life Magic Mastery for Moms, K.P. Weaver presents a captivating and insightful guide that is perfectly tailored for mothers seeking to grow a deep bond with their children and improve their lives. This book delves into universal laws, such as the law of abundance, oneness, and the law of divine timing, encouraging mothers to trust in the universe’s plan and tap into nature for their success.
One of the book’s most powerful aspects is its emphasis on mindful parenting. Weaver highlights the importance of conscious connections with our children, emphasizing caring, communication, and active listening. By practicing mindful parenting, mothers can establish a profound bond with their children, fostering a nurturing environment that promotes growth and happiness.
The author also encourages mothers to prioritize self-care without feeling guilty. Weaver emphasizes the significance of taking care of oneself, recognizing that a mother’s well-being directly impacts her ability to care for her children. It also explores the power of intuition, affirmations, and manifestation. By visualizing the life they desire, mothers can tap into their innate intuition and manifest their dreams into reality. Having a positive mindset and the healing power of forgiveness are also stressed throughout the book. Weaver encourages mothers to embrace an abundance mindset, recognizing that there is enough love, joy, and success for everyone. Furthermore, she emphasizes the transformative nature of forgiveness, both towards others and oneself, as a means to heal emotional wounds and foster personal growth.
Life Magic Mastery for Moms is a highly recommended read for every mother out there. I highly recommend it for its ability to provide valuable guidance and inspiration to mothers seeking to create a magical and fulfilling life for themselves and their children. K.P. Weaver’s book offers a wealth of wisdom and practical tools that will undoubtedly empower mothers to create a life filled with love, joy, and abundance.
Pages: 275
LITERARY TITAN 