Blog Archives
Maintaining Balance and Clarity
The Definitive Israel-Palestine Reader provides readers with a carefully assembled collection of perspectives on one of history’s most complicated conflicts. Why was this an important book for you to write?
The Israel-Palestine conflict is one of the most deeply complex and emotionally charged issues in modern history. We felt it was crucial to assemble a collection of diverse perspectives that could provide a nuanced understanding beyond the headlines. By curating a range of voices—historians, journalists, policymakers, and those directly affected—we aimed to present a balanced and comprehensive resource that encourages informed discussion and critical thinking. In a time when misinformation and polarization are prevalent, we wanted to offer a book that fosters deeper engagement with the facts and human realities of the conflict.
How much research did you undertake for this book, and how much time did it take to put it all together?
The research process was extensive. We spent several months gathering materials, reading historical documents, reviewing global archives, academic studies, memoirs, and journalistic accounts. Organizing and curating the material—while maintaining balance and clarity—was a meticulous process, but one we found incredibly rewarding.
Did you learn anything in the course of your research that surprised you?
Absolutely. One of the most striking aspects was how often the same events are remembered and interpreted in vastly different ways by different communities. These distinct interpretations get passed down to younger generations and thus even as things change and evolve, things also stay the same.
Can we look forward to more nonfiction releases from you soon? What are you currently working on?
Possibly! Right now we are focused on The Definitive Israel-Palestine Reader, but we enjoyed the project and are open to doing other similar projects. We will see what the future holds.
Author Links: GoodReads | Facebook | Amazon
THE STORY OF THE ISRAEL-PALESTINE CONFLICT, as told by the people who shaped it. This fascinating compilation brings the Israel-Palestine conflict to life, from the beginnings of the Zionist movement through the 2023 attacks and ensuing strife.
The Definitive Israel-Palestine Reader weaves together speeches, intelligence briefings, diplomatic correspondence, contemporary newspaper articles, and other historical documents from across three centuries to create a highly readable narrative of the Israel-Palestine conflict that encompasses both Israeli and Palestinian perspectives. Skillfully intertwined throughout the compendium is insight and commentary from historical figures and leading experts that contextualize key events.
Contributors include Yasser Arafat, Henry Kissinger, Albert Einstein, Malcolm X, Mahatma Gandhi, Benjamin Netanyahu & many more.
There is a reason this book is acclaimed by leading experts and foreign policy professionals. The Definitive Israel-Palestine Reader is an indispensable tool for anyone who wants to learn more about the Israel-Palestine conflict.
The Complete Mindbody Dictionary: For Practitioners, Professionals, Coaches, the Mindful and Wellness Minded
The Complete Mindbody Dictionary, by Ronald B. Wayman and Denise Wayman Scholes, is a hefty guide that dives deep into the connections between our minds, emotions, and physical health. It’s part dictionary, part wellness handbook, offering entries for 240 conditions ranging from common ailments like migraines and back pain to more complex issues like chronic disease. Each entry details the troubled mindset associated with the condition, a healing mindset, affirmations to shift thought patterns, and even foods to support recovery. It’s a comprehensive resource designed to help readers align their mental, emotional, and physical well-being, whether they’re practitioners or everyday individuals seeking balance and insight.
What struck me first was how beautifully the book ties emotional states to physical ailments. Reading through, I noticed how often I’d pause to reflect on my own patterns. The book invites introspection and action. I also loved how the affirmations are simple but impactful. They are easy to integrate into meditation or daily life.
The section on phobias deeply resonated with me on a personal level. I’ve struggled with a persistent fear that has felt insurmountable at times, and the insights in this book gave me both understanding and hope. The line, “Bridging this gap is learning to integrate the many parts of your mind, heart, and body,” struck me like a revelation. It framed my fear not as a weakness but as something rooted in primal survival instincts. The section encouraged me to approach my phobia with self-compassion, using practical techniques like breathing exercises and pacing myself through moments of fear. It helped me see my fear as something I could work with rather than just endure, and that shift has been incredibly empowering.
The writing in the healing mindset sections stood out to me. It makes complex emotional concepts feel digestible. The language is soothing, like having a supportive coach guiding you through. I also appreciated how food suggestions weren’t overly prescriptive but still felt intentional, like recommending “a well-balanced diet including…” along with a list of foods to include. It’s a small detail, but it made the advice feel doable.
I did find the dictionary-style format a little daunting at first. It’s dense, and flipping through can feel overwhelming. However, the guide at the front helped simplify things, and the book is in alphabetical order. Once I got the hang of it, I found myself repeatedly reaching for the book, whether for a headache or just out of curiosity. It feels less like a reference manual and more like a companion in your wellness journey.
The Complete Mindbody Dictionary would be a fantastic fit for anyone curious about the mind-body connection. It’s ideal for holistic practitioners, wellness coaches, or even families looking for a shared resource. If you’re into self-discovery or enjoy tools that blend science and soul, this is your book.
Pages: 750 | ISBN : 978-1947176027
Playing Blackjack Like An Engineer
David A. Janover’s Playing Blackjack Like an Engineer stands out as a unique blend of mathematics, engineering principles, and card game strategy. The book serves as a practical manual for those serious about mastering blackjack, offering detailed explanations of how probability, statistics, and risk management can transform one’s approach to the game. From understanding the fundamentals of basic strategy to using optimization techniques and bankroll management, Janover takes readers on a structured journey designed to equip them with an analytical edge at the casino.
One of the things that struck me about the writing is Janover’s insistence on treating blackjack not as a game of pure luck but as a calculated and strategic endeavor. He dives deep into probability, even calculating expected value (EV) for various scenarios. It made me feel as though I was decoding the game’s secrets, one statistical analysis at a time. At the same time, there are moments in the book when I felt a bit overwhelmed. For instance, the advanced strategies section, which introduces betting systems like the Fibonacci and Martingale, comes with a level of intricacy that could easily scare off a casual reader. Yet, it was also fascinating, almost like peering into the mind of a gambler-engineer hybrid.
Janover breaks down each betting system with scenarios, such as how the Martingale can yield profit but also expose a player to devastating losses. Then there’s the memorable way Janover links engineering and blackjack. In a world where most books on gambling are either overly flashy or too simplistic, his comparisons feel grounded and innovative. His analogy of project management to bankroll management made me chuckle but also gave me a practical perspective on how to think about my own budget at a casino. He writes that, much like managing a project’s resources, you need to manage your bets with discipline. The book is methodical and, in its own way, charmingly nerdy.
By the end, I was convinced that Playing Blackjack Like an Engineer is not for the faint-hearted or the casual thrill-seeker. This is a book for those who love strategy, math, and the thrill of mastering a game through logic and practice. If you’re an engineer, a math enthusiast, or just someone who wants to view blackjack from a new angle, this book is a must-read. Janover makes it clear that mastering blackjack is a project, and you’d better come prepared.
Pages: 81 | ASIN : B0DC5ZD7RB
The Little Book of Quotes by Women
The Little Book of Quotes by Women is a delightful, compact collection of 365 quotes from influential women who have graced U.S. postage stamps. Edited by Kathleen Welton, the book spans a variety of subjects like courage, beauty, strength, and love, offering snippets of wisdom from historical figures like Eleanor Roosevelt to cultural icons like Audrey Hepburn. It’s meant to be read for daily inspiration or savored in one sitting. With each quote carefully selected to uplift and motivate, the book also gives nods to the history of U.S. stamps, highlighting how these women’s words and legacies have left a permanent stamp on history.
Right from the start, I was drawn to the accessible organization of the book, broken into themed sections like “Beauty” and “Courage.” It was easy to dip in and find something encouraging. One quote that really resonated with me was from Maya Angelou: “We delight in the beauty of the butterfly, but rarely admit the changes it has gone through to achieve that beauty.” Her words remind us that transformation and growth are messy but undeniably beautiful, and reading this felt like a gentle nudge to embrace my own imperfect journey. It’s clear that Welton put thought into curating quotes that are both timeless and relatable. The theme of courage stood out strongly throughout the book, particularly in the section featuring Harriet Tubman’s quote, “Every great dream begins with a dreamer. Always remember, you have within you the strength, the patience, and the passion to reach for the stars to change the world.” I couldn’t help but feel a surge of admiration for Tubman, knowing her life was full of extraordinary risks for freedom. The simplicity of this quote belies the fierce, relentless determination she embodied. Quotes like this gave me goosebumps, and I lingered long after reading them.
The Little Book of Quotes by Women is a lovely little companion for anyone needing a daily dose of motivation. It’s a perfect gift for a friend, a thoughtful read to start your mornings, or a quick reference when you’re searching for the right words to uplift someone. While it may not offer the depth of a biography, it delivers powerful sentiments in a bite-sized format that’s both approachable and heartening. Anyone who loves collecting words of wisdom or admires the indelible mark women have left on history will find this book a gem worth revisiting.
Pages: 140 | ASIN : B0DHFYT7WC
Human Physiology
Nurse Florence®, Tell Me About the Lymphatic System offers young readers valuable information about the lymph nodes, spleen, and the thymus in easy-to-grasp language and serves as a valuable resource for families and educators. Why was it important for you to cover this topic in your children’s series?
We will be covering all basic human physiology questions in the Nurse Florence series, and it was time to do this topic.
Did you find anything interesting in your research for this installment in the Nurse Florence series?
I think this is a little-known system of the body and many families of all ages will learn many things from this book.
Your Nurse Florence series is extensive. Do you receive feedback about your books from schools? How are they being utilized?
The long-term plan is for there to be a set of the series in every library.
Can you give us a peek inside the next topic explored in your series?
We are about to publish books about the inner and middle ear. There are some fascinating things about the ear that I think many people will learn new things with these books. The book about the outer ear should publish next year.
Author Links: GoodReads | Facebook | Website | Amazon
Sometimes it seems only a nurse can bring technical information down to an understanding that an ordinary person can grasp. The Nurse Florence(R) book series provides high quality medical information that even a child can grasp. By introducing young kids to correct terminology and science concepts at an early age, we can help increase our children’s health literacy level as well as help to prepare them for courses and jobs in Science, Technology, Engineering, and Math. We need more scientists so I hope that many children will enjoy this book series and consider a job involving science. Introducing Some Medical Words to Kids in Every Book(R) A Movement of Global Health Promotion and Literacy Dow Creative Enterprises(R) Help Civilization Reach Its Potential
Holistic Guidance
The Creative Composition Guide to Self-Publishing and Marketing Children’s Books is a comprehensive guide that breaks down the entire process of self-publishing a children’s book. What inspired you to write this book?
I began my career as an illustrator, initially focused solely on drawing, but I soon found myself diving headfirst into other aspects of the book world—marketing, fundraising, developing supplemental resources, and booking events. Along the way, I had to learn about contracts, distribution platforms, print guidelines, and so much more. Supporting new authors over the years, I committed to learning as much as possible to provide them with holistic guidance.
I offered experiential advice in various online groups, and the most common question that came up was “I’ve written my children’s book, so now what?”. It hadn’t occurred to me at the time, but that would ultimately be the golden question to guide my writing process. It wasn’t until I booked my first multi-school, book tour and parent-teacher night when I thought to myself “There might be some educators and parents who may want to self-publish their own books … and I can help them.” From that realization, I began working on a 10 point 1-pager which quickly turned into a 10-page e-book, and gradually blossomed into the 10 chapters of The Creative Composition Guide to Self-Publishing and Marketing Children’s Books: A 3-in-1 Reference Guide for New and Aspiring Authors.
What were some ideas that were important for you to share in this book?
One of the most important concepts I share in The Creative Composition Guide is preparing your mind for the expansive path of becoming a children’s book creator. It’s far more than just writing a book and putting it out there. As an independent publisher, you have complete control over how your book will be presented to the world. I cover this in Chapter 0: “Nurturing a CREATOR’s Mindset,” which I lovingly refer to as the “seed” of your creative expansion. Another concept I emphasize is the importance of doing extensive research before committing to hiring any contractor to support your project. Your creative team can either enhance and expand your publishing experience or diminish and delay it. Taking the time to understand their interests and experience with your topic and genre is crucial.
What is one piece of advice you wish someone had given you when you were starting out as a writer?
Throughout my writing journey, I did my best to be as informed as possible by attending writers’ conferences, hiring a business coach, and conducting extensive market research. However, one piece of advice I wish I had embraced earlier and with more consistency is outlining and committing to a strategic marketing plan. Writing and publishing a book are only small parts of the bigger picture. Building and expanding your community of fellow writers and aligned readers makes the process much more enjoyable and fulfilling.
What is one thing that people point out after reading your book that surprises you?
I’m always pleasantly surprised when people comment on how much they enjoy the design of The Creative Composition Guide. As publishing day approached, I was hesitant to commit to the interior design, but I had a very specific creative vision. I’m grateful that I was able to see that vision manifest in its full form, and I’m thrilled that readers have responded so positively to it.
Author Links: GoodReads | Instagram | X (Twitter) | Facebook | Website | Amazon
“I’ve written my children’s book. Now what!?” First, celebrate yourself! Translating your bright ideas into the written word is a great accomplishment! Now, it’s time to transform your words into a published book. Not just any book, but a treasure that children and families will love and grow with! And How? Clarity, connection, consistency, and a sincere trust in your creative ability! Many writers with captivating stories often struggle to get their work published due to a lack of clarity throughout the publishing process. They may lack confidence in choosing the right professionals and tools to work with and may even have doubts about the success of their children’s book… Some get to publishing day and have no idea how to connect with families who will read or buy their book, so they give up, and their stories collect dust, either in their minds or on the mantle. The Creative Composition Guide to Self-publishing and Marketing Children’s Books is a practical and expansive 3-in-1 book, journal, and evergreen reference guide that, through reflection and direct action, supports new and aspiring authors throughout their publishing and marketing journey.
From my experience working behind the scenes as the contributing illustrator of 5 published books, attending and speaking at self-publishing conferences, plus supporting and learning from award-winning best-selling authors and illustrators in both traditional and self-publishing. With this guide, future authors will learn the essentials to take their book from rough draft to publication day and beyond by:
1. Researching and revising with your specific audience in mind
2. Establishing your author identity and brand 3. Connecting with your book buddies
4. Acquiring your dream team, editor, illustrator, and designer
5. Knowing your Publishing and Distribution Options
6. Booking Engagements and so much more
With invaluable insight from award-winning and bestselling children’s book creators and access to an online library, The Creative Composition Guide outlines how to plan, fund, and launch a meaningful and memorable children’s book that children and families will love and treasure for generations.
The Creative Composition Guide to Self-Publishing and Marketing Children’s Books
The Creative Composition Guide to Self-Publishing and Marketing Children’s Books is a comprehensive guide aimed at aspiring children’s book authors. The book breaks down the entire process of self-publishing a children’s book. Everything from nurturing a creator’s mindset to marketing and maintaining a book’s success. Through practical tips, actionable steps and relatable anecdotes, the author provides readers with the tools they need to bring their creative visions to life.
One of the things I loved about this book was its approachable tone. It never felt overwhelming. For instance, in Chapter 0, author Breanna Washington-Weatherford starts with the concept of cultivating a “CREATOR mindset” and gives readers permission to embrace their creativity with confidence. This theme is carried through with an encouraging voice that makes you feel like she is with you every step of the way. The author gently guides readers through the ups and downs of the self-publishing process.
I loved the book’s practical elements. In Chapter 1, she introduces the importance of setting S.M.A.R.T. goals. This is something that feels especially useful to someone like me who tends to dream big but sometimes struggles with execution. Having these tools at my disposal really brought clarity to my often chaotic journey of self-publishing. I also appreciated the various “TAKE ACTION” prompts that pushes the reader to engage with the material. This also helped me feel like I was progressing as I read.
Another thing that I liked was her insights on building relationships in the creative community. In Chapter 5, the author emphasizes the importance of collaboration and connecting with other authors and illustrators. Her advice on how to work effectively with illustrators and editors was eye-opening. These are two relationships I never realized were so pivotal. The idea of using these relationships to foster a successful book career rather than doing everything yourself felt refreshing and actually doable. I personally felt Chapter 9 was very helpful. It focuses on the essential elements of marketing a children’s book. This chapter emphasizes the importance of specificity as well as community connection. I think it provides incredibly practical advice for marketing, which I found both insightful and realistic.
I’d recommend The Creative Composition Guide to Self-Publishing and Marketing Children’s Books to anyone who is thinking of writing and self-publishing a children’s book. Whether you are just starting or need some extra motivation to keep going. The guide shows you how to do it with actionable advice, personal stories, and plenty of encouragement. If you are looking for a warm and motivating companion on your journey to becoming a published children’s book author, then this guide is the perfect pick.
Pages: 198 | ASIN : B0D8XKKZC5
Strengthened During Times of Abundance
The Beauty of Tribulation is a thought-provoking exploration of the Christian faith, delving into the role of suffering and hardship in spiritual growth and offering insights into biblical teachings. Why was this an important book for you to write?
This book was important for me to write because God laid it upon my heart to bring this book into the world. I was not in a place that it would make sense for him to do such a thing during that time in my life, at least not in a carnal perspective. I questioned if it was him, but he made it very clear to me that it was. I was awakened many times at odd hours and spent many hours writing the things that he put upon my heart. Even to this day, I struggle with accepting that I was the one who wrote the words on its pages. I say that with all humility. I am very thankful to have the opportunity to help other Christians realize that first, God is not the author of their tribulation and second, yes, he does have a powerful purpose for allowing it. The important takeaway is to trust him always and not get so fixated on trying to understand the why. The why is, he has allowed it, and it is not important for us to always know the reason.
Could you share any personal experiences or realizations that significantly influenced your perspective while writing this book?
What significantly influenced my perspective while writing this book was my own tribulations from my very bad decisions at that time. What I mean is, that God helped me to realize that I can and must trust my failures to him as well. Also, he helped me to learn that while I will surely reap the consequences, through repentance he can and will use my failure for his glory. The remedy for our sin will never change; therefore: God is more concerned about our repentance so that he can use our hindsight to help others rather than punish us. God only punishes unrepented sin and must, because he is holy.
What do you hope readers take away from your exploration of Jesus’ suffering and the broader context of God’s plans?
I pray that my readers will realize that suffering is an unavoidable part of the Christian experience. It is also a very necessary part of the experience. The reason is because Jesus has explained that the student is not greater than the master. Because suffering was a necessity for him, it is so for us. However, since Christ continued to have confidence in the Father and never forsook him, he was never alone in that suffering, until he became sin for us. Likewise, as long as we place our confidence in Jesus, we too will never be alone and have strength in all things. Paul understood this and proclaimed, “I know how to be abased, and I know how to abound. Everywhere and in all things I have learned both to be full and to be hungry, both to abound and to suffer need. I can do all things through Christ who strengthens me.” Philippians 4: 12,13. I will end with this point; he could not learn about being strengthened in Christ without experiencing all those things. I will leave it to others to pray and ponder why it is necessary to be strengthened during times of abundance. If you have read The Beauty of Tribulation, you already know the answer.
What is the next book that you are working on, and when will it be available?
I have about 3 books I will be working on which are in different phases. As far as faith-based literature, the next book is Flawless. It will likely be an e-book and audiobook due to its small size but will not lack in sating the spiritual appetite. In a nutshell, it has to do with how we properly identify with Christ. Don’t be thrown off by the name. I am not sure when I will complete it at this moment but hopefully, it will be available early next year if not at the end of this year.
Author Links: GoodReads | Twitter | Facebook | Website | Amazon
Reasons why it is necessary.
How God uses it for our edification and his glory.
How God is not the author of our tribulation.
At the root of it, the greatest purpose is to depict the beauty of our painful, frustrating, and most hopeless moments when we allow God to complete the work he is trying to accomplish through them. As you turn the pages of this book you will be taken on a journey that will delve you deep into the tribulation process and come away with a firm understanding of it, perhaps like never before. Every premise is backed with scripture, focused on what the bible says rather than my own ideas.
J.A. Cox hopes that all who read will walk away with a greater appreciation and devotion toward the Lord in regard to this troublesome subject and inevitable part of our lives.
LITERARY TITAN 