Blog Archives
Queering the Path to Enlightenment, Book One: Beginning the Journey
Queering the Path to Enlightenment, by David Franklin Sparks, offers a bold and invigorating perspective on Buddhist teachings, uniquely tailored to resonate with LGBTQ+ experiences. It challenges traditional narratives, providing a fresh lens through which spirituality and queerness can harmoniously intertwine.
At its heart, the book redefines the Buddhist concept of samsara—the endless cycles of suffering and rebirth—by connecting it to the specific challenges faced by queer individuals. From navigating societal expectations to confronting internalized prejudices, Sparks dives deep into these realities. Yet, he doesn’t stop at acknowledgment; he equips readers with practical tools and meditative practices designed to help break free from these cycles and foster a more liberating spiritual journey.
What elevates this book is its unapologetic celebration of queer identity. Sparks positions individuality not as a hindrance but as a powerful, transformative asset on the path to enlightenment. His message is clear and empowering: authenticity is sacred, and queerness holds a profound value often overlooked in traditional spiritual texts. This is more than a book—it’s a call to embrace your true self, honor your unique journey, and unlock your immense potential for growth and awakening. Sparks skillfully balances respect for Buddhist traditions with a modern, inclusive approach.
His writing is both approachable and profound, making complex concepts accessible to beginners while offering rich insights for seasoned practitioners. The meditative exercises and actionable guidance woven throughout are not just thoughtful additions—they are transformative tools, seamlessly fitting into everyday life while offering profound opportunities for change. Beyond its focus on queer spirituality, the book extends a welcoming hand to allies and anyone seeking a deeper understanding of inclusivity in spiritual practice. It reframes the queer experience as one of strength and wisdom, blending humor and insight to create an inspiring, uplifting narrative.
In a genre often mired in abstraction or rigidity, Sparks delivers a rare gem. Queering the Path to Enlightenment stands out as a work that empowers and affirms, making it a must-read for LGBTQ+ individuals and anyone drawn to a fresh perspective on Buddhism. Sparks’ voice is both warm and inclusive, creating a guide that feels as much a companion as it is a roadmap for self-discovery and spiritual growth.
Pages: 195 | ASIN : B0DH7NHLTP
The Lowly Prophet: A Story of Healing, Transformation and Awakening to Live as a Christ
Mark Hattas’s The Lowly Prophet is an intimate, transformative exploration of faith, healing, and self-discovery through the eyes of Jack, an ordinary man thrust into extraordinary circumstances. The narrative begins with an encounter with Jesus, setting the stage for a spiritual journey filled with miracles, doubt, and revelations. Each chapter builds on Jack’s emotional and spiritual awakening, offering readers a front-row seat to his struggles with faith and the profound insights he gains along the way.
One of the book’s standout qualities is its vivid storytelling. Hattas weaves a tapestry of surreal yet relatable events, like Jack’s first bewildering encounter with Jesus at a family gathering. This moment blends the divine with the mundane in a way that’s both grounding and uplifting. Similarly, the depiction of Jack’s vision of the Sermon on the Mount left me awe-struck. The writing here is so immersive that I felt transported alongside him, pondering the eternal questions of purpose and existence. The most compelling aspect of the book is its honest portrayal of mental health and spirituality. Jack’s struggle with bipolar disorder and his time in a behavioral health facility are described with raw vulnerability, making his eventual healing feel earned and authentic. I found the scene where Marcus, a fellow patient, shares his miraculous healing particularly moving. It’s a testament to the book’s power that it doesn’t shy away from the messiness of life while still offering hope.
The Lowly Prophet is a heartfelt and thought-provoking read. Its blend of mystical experiences and relatable human struggles makes it an excellent choice for readers interested in spirituality, mental health, or personal growth. I highly recommend it to anyone seeking a fresh perspective on the divine’s role in our lives. This is a book that lingers long after the last page is turned.
Pages: 172 | ISBN : 97809994815
Religious Revival
Like a Lamb to the Slaughter Part 1: The Early Years offers a fascinating look into the founding of Mormonism, tracing the early life of Prophet Joseph Smith Jr. Where did the idea for this novel come from?
Firstly, I grew up in the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints; and had always been taught about Joseph Smith. Secondly, in a priesthood blessing given to me when I was twelve years old, I was encouraged “to study the life of Joseph Smith, because there are many things in his life, which will help you in yours.”
What were some of the ideas that were important for you to share in this book?
One of main events in the book is the religious revival that swept Western New York in 1820. The once united Christian churches began to argue amongst themselves, as converts were made, which church should these believers belong. Each faith attempted to prove their teachings to be right, and the others to be wrong. Fourteen-year-old Joseph Smith wanted to join a church, but was confused by the arguments of the religious parties. He took the question in prayer to God; and received a marvellous answer, changing not only his life but those of future millions.
What kind of research did you for this novel to ensure you captured the essence of the story’s theme?
I worked out of the two main historical records: History of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, and History of Joseph Smith by His Mother, Lucy Mack Smith. I also referenced commentaries on the subject.
When will book two be available? Can you give us an idea of where that book will take readers?
I hope to release Like a Lamb to the Slaughter Part 2: Kirtland and Missouri by the end of 2025. Part 2 covers the next stages of Joseph’s life: from 1830-1839. In this period over a thousand believers join the Church. They are called to gather in Kirtland, Ohio; and Missouri. The Old Settlers of Missouri are angered at the “Mormons” invading their homeland; and religiously persecuted them. The Latter-day Saints are driven from the state. In the midst of this, Joseph Smith and other Church leaders are falsely imprisoned; not knowing if they will ever receive a fair trial to clear themselves.
Author Links: Goodreads | Amazon
The night of 26th June 1844, Joseph Smith the Prophet lays awake in Carthage Jail reliving the early years of his life: from his agonizing bone surgery without anesthetic at only seven. To the religious revival in New York in 1820, where Joseph as a youth prayed to God to know which church he should join, that resulted in a Heavenly visitation, changing not only Joseph’s life but future millions. The subsequent religious persecution from ministers of religion, as well as common man, for saying he had seen a vision. And finally organizing the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints on the 6th April 1830, having been given the power and authority of God to do so.
Messages of the Apostle Paul
St. Paul Goes to Spain follows three men bound by their shared faith and curiosity about the apostle Paul, who, after discovering a letter, they go on a journey to the places they think Paul could have visited in Spain. What inspired the setup of your story?
Well, I wrote it as an historian and a Christian, but I was long interested if Paul actually made a missionary trip to Spain which he mentioned in some other published Scripture, such as the Book of Romans. Plus, I have loved fiction ever since early-life discoveries of Steinbeck, Hemingway, etc. It is a way of reaching people and drawing upon your imagination to tell great stories that, in fact, usually reach a lot more people than histories! I did an earlier novel on early Christianity in the Americas (Columbian discoveries, conquests, and settlements) and how Jesus, or, more exactly, some of his followers and prophets may have reached the New World hundreds of years before 1492, and they left evidence (artifacts in the forms of the Cross), and I was off into the past again, this time inventing and tracing a story which I think could have actually happened. Ok, I’ll stop here. I’ve had a couple cups of coffee and it is Saturday morning and football games don’t begin until this afternoon!
What were some themes that were important for you to explore in this book?
I’ve always enjoyed the trajectory and messages of the Apostle Paul in the New Testament, especially since he produced more than half of the Books of the New Testament. He was, in fact, the writer who did more to write down the teachings of Jesus or to create the theology of Christianity. So I suppose my principal interest was in exploring, one, the central themes of Christianity that Paul taught (love, forgiveness, salvation, etc.) and, two, how he probably took them to Spain, a country I have long loved and admired given my background and experiences, first visiting as a young Naval officer in the Sixth Fleet in the Mediterranean in the mid-1960s, and then over the years as a historian, where I especially learned about the land and its people while researching for my dissertation in the Archive of the Indies, Seville, 1970-71.
What experience in your life has had the biggest impact on your writing?
Without a doubt, it has been the growth of my Christian faith, influenced especially by my marriage to my wife Louise more than thirty years ago. Without going into detail, she showed me that true worship in understanding did not come necessarily with reading and doing good works, but through the faith that comes when God in his infinite Grace accepts you into his world. You have but to accept. Secondarily, but no less important (although not as transcending as making the same discovery that Martin Luther made in the early sixteenth century when he discovered for himself while teaching at Wittenberg on the Book of Galatians, the true power of the grace of God) was my teaching the history of Christianity over the last almost five decades to various forums, from my students at the University of Alabama to mission trips into places like Honduras and the Dominican Republic, and my all-time favorite students, the prisoners of the Tuscaloosa County Jail where I’ve been ministering on a weekly basis for twenty-five years.
What is one thing that you hope readers take away from St. Paul Goes to Spain?
That the Christian message given to Paul by Jesus (beginning with his Road to Damascus conversion) was indeed aimed to the entire world, albeit a world circumscribed by the knowledge of geography of the world 2000 years ago. Taking it to Spain was just reaching the far Western end of the Mediterranean and I even hint that Paul may have voyaged into the Atlantic with some of the intrepid Phoenician mariners of the times and zipped across the Atlantic, about fifteen hundred years before Columbus!
Author Links: GoodReads | Amazon
What if the Apostle Paul, after his release from imprisonment in Rome, embarked on a daring journey to the far reaches of the Roman Empire? “St. Paul Goes to Spain” by Lawrence Clayton is a riveting historical fiction novel that imagines this very scenario, blending meticulous research with engaging storytelling.
Join Matthew Western, an intrepid archaeologist, as he uncovers ancient artifacts in the Sinai desert, sparking a quest to prove that Paul indeed traveled to Spain. His journey intertwines with the lives of several compelling characters:
John Baldus, a former Army soldier and current Divinity student, who grapples with faith and doubt while investigating Paul’s journeys.
Domingo, a Dominican priest in modern Spain, facing spiritual challenges and historical mysteries.
Slate Watson, a daring crop-duster pilot with a rich military past, whose adventurous spirit leads him into the heart of biblical archaeology.
Sarah Maxwell, an Englishwoman tracing her ancestors’ historic discoveries, contributing her own expertise to the mission.
Together, they delve into historical sites, uncover ancient manuscripts, and piece together the lost chapters of early Christian history. From the dusty libraries of St. Catherine’s Monastery to the vibrant landscapes of modern Spain, their quest reveals profound insights and unexpected connections.
“St. Paul Goes to Spain” explores the intersection of faith, history, and archaeology, offering readers a captivating journey through time and belief. It’s a story of discovery, adventure, and the enduring impact of one man’s mission to spread the Christian faith.
Literary Titan Gold 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
System Upon Systems in the Bible by William OuYang
Visit the Literary Titan Book Awards page to see award information.
Mommy and Me Micro-Moments: 5-minute Devotions for Moms & Kids
Mommy & Me Micro-Moments is a collection of 35 quick, interactive devotionals designed for busy moms to share with their children. Each devotional takes just about five minutes, offering a chance to bond while reflecting on faith, love, and gratitude. The book is divided into four themes: Silly Moments, Crayon Moments, Ask Me Moments, and Tender Moments, with simple activities that include prayers, Bible verses, and fun exercises aimed at fostering deeper connections between mother and child.
What I loved most about this book is how accessible it is. Kemper knows that moms have packed schedules, and I could tell she really gets what it’s like to try and carve out quality time with kids amid the daily chaos. The activities, like “1, 2, 3 Guess With Me,” where you make goofy guesses with your child (who will likely burst out laughing when you throw in unexpected words like “monkey”), are easy to jump into. It’s not the kind of devotional that feels intimidating or too serious, which makes it approachable even on days when you’re feeling frazzled.
Another thing that stood out to me was how the book balances fun with faith. The “Crayon Moments” activities, like drawing outlines of your hands together and talking about how God holds us in His, felt really meaningful. One of my favorites was “In the Palm of My Hand,” where I traced my hand and my child’s hand, symbolizing how much they grow and how God’s love grows with them. It’s the kind of activity that you can look back on, and it gives you a tangible memory to keep. Kemper makes sure that while you’re having fun, you’re also sneaking in those sweet spiritual lessons.
I have to mention the prayers for moms tucked at the end of each day’s devotional. These little silent prayers felt like a personal lifeline. In “Silent Prayer of Gratitude,” for instance, the honesty about the frustrations of parenting hit home. She reminds us that even those little moments of chaos are seen by God, and that perspective was a relief on the tough days.
Mommy & Me Micro-Moments is perfect for moms who want to grow closer to their kids and their faith without needing an hour or two each day. If you’re a mom with young children and you’re looking for a light, fun way to connect with your child while sprinkling in some spirituality, this book is a gem.
Pages: 137 | ASIN : B0D4RZMSXB
SET FREE
The existence of God is a subject that has been, and likely always will be, the focus of ongoing debate. It’s a question that neither logic nor evidence can definitively answer, leaving room for endless discussion. Yet, attempting to persuade someone of either side often proves fruitless. Belief in God, for many, is rooted not in rational argument but in a profound, immovable conviction. It’s these true believers who often navigate life with a clarity and purpose that those without a connection to the divine may find elusive.
In SET FREE, Sharon Crick explores this very idea through her deeply personal and inspiring journey. As both author and protagonist, she opens up about the many trials she has faced, while also sharing the story of her husband, Brian, a central figure in her life for over forty years. Crick recounts Brian’s turbulent upbringing in apartheid-era South Africa, where he battled addiction, spent time in a reformatory, and had run-ins with violent gangs. Her own experiences, though different, have been equally fraught with challenges. While one might attribute their meeting to mere chance, Crick makes it clear that she sees their union as divinely orchestrated.
Though a relatively short read, SET FREE is filled with emotional depth. Crick’s story, and that of her husband, resonate with themes of redemption, faith, and resilience. The love they share and their unwavering connection to a higher power are the anchors that have guided them through life’s many hardships. Even for those who don’t share their beliefs, the narrative offers something universally relatable: the power of love, commitment, and the search for meaning.
In the end, Sharon Crick’s memoir transcends the boundaries of faith. A truly compelling story, as this one proves to be, speaks to readers regardless of their spiritual inclinations. SET FREE is one such tale—heartfelt, sincere, and undeniably moving.
Pages: 146 | ISBN : 978-1923087323
The Songs of a Sinner
The Songs of a Sinner, by Norman Cairns, is a reflective collection of poetry that combines biblical stories, religious musings, and personal confessions. The poems vary in form, from free verse to heroic sonnets, offering the reader a blend of narrative and lyrical explorations. Cairns grapples with themes of faith, sin, redemption, and the human struggle for spiritual meaning, all while infusing his work with references to Christian scripture and personal reflection.
One of the strengths of The Songs of a Sinner is its honest grappling with faith and doubt. Cairns doesn’t shy away from admitting his own spiritual shortcomings. This straightforward admission of human imperfection resonated with me. It’s refreshing to see an author embrace their flaws in such a candid way, and it made me feel like I was on the same journey of introspection with him. The poems often feel like conversations—between the poet and himself, the poet and God, or the poet and the reader. The result is both intimate and relatable.
I was also intrigued by the way Cairns uses scripture as both a foundation and a lens through which he examines modern life. In poems like “The Carpenter from Galilee” and “Pontius Pilate,” Cairns reimagines biblical narratives, not just retelling familiar stories but infusing them with his own interpretations and questions. I appreciated how Cairns connects these ancient moments to broader themes of justice and morality. However, there were times when I felt the biblical retellings were more like summaries than deep dives into the emotional or spiritual weight of the events. I found myself wanting more layers of introspection in some of these moments. That said, one of the highlights of the collection for me was the sense of personal vulnerability that runs throughout. The theme of seeking forgiveness, whether through prayer or poetry, adds a reflective weight to the entire book.
The Songs of a Sinner is an engaging collection for those who appreciate poetry grounded in faith and personal reflection. Cairns doesn’t claim to have all the answers, and that’s part of what makes this book feel authentic. If you’re someone who enjoys exploring themes of spirituality, sin, and redemption, or if you’re simply curious about how poetry can engage with faith, you will find this book rewarding. It is a thoughtful, heartfelt collection that invites readers to reflect on their own spiritual journeys, all while offering a glimpse into the mind of a poet wrestling with his beliefs.
Pages: 58 | ISBN : 978-1304094834
LITERARY TITAN 