Blog Archives
Around the World in Eighty Photos
Jeremiah A. Gilbert’s Around the World in Eighty Photos is more than just a photography book; it’s a visual adventure that takes you across the globe through the lens of an experienced traveler. Instead of sticking to well-known landmarks, Gilbert hones in on the often-overlooked corners of the world, giving them the spotlight they deserve. Each photograph is accompanied by a story—sometimes historical, sometimes personal, always engaging. He also shares the technical details behind each shot, making it both an inspiring and educational experience for photographers and travel enthusiasts alike.
As a photographer, I appreciate that Gilbert doesn’t just show beautiful places—he invites us into his thought process. His image of Rano Raraku on Easter Island struck me the most. He describes setting up his shot without people, then serendipitously capturing two figures stepping into the frame, perfectly enhancing the composition. That’s what photography is about—being prepared, yet open to unexpected moments. The book is filled with these little surprises, making it feel like you’re traveling right along with him.
Another highlight is the way Gilbert balances storytelling with technical insight. In his photo of Mexico City’s Basilica de Guadalupe, he explains how he had to ride the moving walkway twice to figure out the best composition. The first trip was for analysis, the second for execution. That’s dedication. And in his shot of Iguazu Falls, he makes a conscious decision to use a fast shutter speed to capture the violent, thundering energy of the water, rather than the dreamy, silky look so many photographers go for. His approach reminds me that technical choices should serve the emotion of the image, not just the aesthetics.
This book is a must for photographers who love to travel, travelers who love photography, and anyone who dreams of seeing the world through fresh eyes. If you want a collection of images that tell stories, that teach you something new, and that make you want to grab your camera and book a flight, Around the World in Eighty Photos is an absolute treat.
Pages: 268 | ASIN : B0DY46TYP3
Places I Had Visited
When Fred the Snake and Friends Explore USA West follows a travel-loving snake and his friends as they enjoy some of the sights on the West coast of the USA, from Hollywood California to Alaska and Waikiki Beach, Hawaii. What was the inspiration for the destinations they visit in your story?
Fred asked me which places I had visited and liked best.
What scene in the book did you have the most fun writing?
Meeting the bear in Alaska. “If you meet a bear, be brave, shout out loud, and madly wave. Get together in a bunch to avoid becoming lunch.”
Did you find anything in your research of this story that surprised you?
The old word “Eskimo” is no longer proper. We should refer to the different nations, like Inuit and Aleut.
What is your favorite place to visit, and does it hold any special meaning or memories for you?
San Francisco was the first US city I visited in 1971 while still living in England. I was impressed by its grandeur, pretty houses, sunshine, and hamburgers.
Author Links: GoodReads | X (Twitter) | Facebook | Website | Amazon
Famous Places and Memorials
When Fred the Snake and Friends Explore USA, Central follows an adventurous snake and his crew as they travel across the central United States. What was the inspiration for your story?
Fred and friends enjoyed visiting sights in the Eastern States and asked Jim to take them further.
The art in this book is fantastic. What was the art collaboration process like with the illustrator Bonnie Lemaire?
Great illustrator living near Toronto, Canada. We connected via the publisher and worked together online until we started on the 4th book, about Charleston, SC, where Fred and I live. She came down to see what she would be drawing. Terrific talent. She not only draws my ideas, but enhances them, adding lots of special wrinkles. Purple hair then…
What were some educational aspects that were important for you to include in this children’s book?
Introducing young kids to famous places and memorials.
Can you tell us more about what’s in store for Fred and his friends and the direction of the next book?
Jim says they will be off to the West Coast. Maybe Hollywood? Alaska?
Author Links: GoodReads | X (Twitter) | Facebook | Website | Amazon
Travels With My Grief
Susan Bloch’s Travels with My Grief is an emotional, raw, and deeply personal memoir about love, loss, and rediscovery. After the death of her husband, John, Bloch embarks on a journey through grief, taking the reader with her as she navigates despair, loneliness, and, ultimately, resilience. Set against the backdrop of her travels, especially in India, the book is not just about mourning but also about transformation. Through vividly painted scenes, from the heartache of John’s final days to the vibrant chaos of Mumbai, Bloch explores how travel and human connection can aid in healing.
Bloch’s writing is rich and immersive. Her ability to capture the weight of grief in everyday moments is remarkable. In the opening chapters, she details John’s final hours with such intensity that it feels like time slows down. The moment when John takes his last breath is visceral, her emotions raw and unfiltered. It’s heartbreaking but beautiful in its honesty. Her grief is not poeticized or neatly packaged. It’s messy, painful, and unpredictable. She writes about the way she clings to his belongings, the irrational hope that he might still return, and the crushing weight of his absence. It’s not just sadness but a kind of disorientation that anyone who has lost someone will recognize.
One of the most compelling aspects of the book is Bloch’s decision to go to India. At first, it feels like an escape, leaving behind the home filled with memories, the well-wishers who don’t quite know what to say, the suffocating silence of life without John. But India becomes a catalyst for change. Her descriptions of the monsoon rains, the spicy aroma of street food, and the cacophony of Mumbai traffic are almost intoxicating. There’s a turning point when she watches a group of schoolgirls in pristine uniforms laughing amidst the city’s chaos. This simple scene sparks something in her, a reminder of resilience and joy. Through her encounters, from priests to firewalkers, she begins to reclaim her sense of self, no longer defined solely by loss.
The most unforgettable section is when Bloch walks on fire, both literally and metaphorically. The firewalking scene is electrifying, a powerful metaphor for facing pain head-on. She hesitates, fearing she’ll get burned, but then she takes the leap. The act itself is astonishing, but it’s her internal monologue in that moment that resonates most: the realization that pain doesn’t disappear, but we can learn to walk through it. It’s exhilarating, terrifying, and deeply moving.
Travels with My Grief is for anyone who has experienced profound loss, especially those struggling to find themselves again. It’s not a self-help book with tidy answers, nor is it a simple travel memoir. It’s an honest and beautifully written account of one woman’s journey through heartbreak, loneliness, and ultimately, a return to life.
Pages: 226 | ASIN: B0BZ6H822M
A Life Lived on Three Continents
A Life Lived on Three Continents is a heartfelt journey through Hanay Kang Angell’s experiences growing up in Korea, adapting to life in the United States, and exploring a new world in the United Arab Emirates. The book captures the universal struggles of identity, resilience, and belonging, weaving them with Angell’s unique perspective as a woman navigating life across vastly different cultures. Her story is deeply personal yet universally relatable, a testament to the human spirit’s capacity to endure and grow.
What struck me most was Angell’s poignant storytelling, particularly in recounting her early life in Korea. Her vivid descriptions of family dynamics, such as the pressure on her mother to produce a male heir or the challenges posed by her father’s absence, offer an intimate glimpse into traditional Korean culture. I felt a pang of empathy as she narrated her struggles as the overlooked child in a large family. One of my favorite moments was her depiction of her grandfather, whose saintly presence and love of calligraphy became an anchor of warmth in her otherwise tumultuous childhood. Moments like these showcase Angell’s ability to blend personal and cultural history seamlessly.
The second section of the book, detailing her immigration to the United States, felt both inspiring and raw. Angell doesn’t sugarcoat the difficulties of adapting to a new country while wrestling with feelings of alienation. I admired her candor in discussing the double-edged sword of being an immigrant. Her narrative about meeting her husband on a flight and later navigating an interracial marriage in a predominantly Caucasian community was heartfelt and eye-opening. I found her reflections on balancing her Korean heritage with American expectations to be some of the most moving passages in the book.
Her life in the United Arab Emirates, the third continent in her journey, brought a burst of color and adventure to the narrative. I was enchanted by her descriptions of desert landscapes and the fascinating cultural crossroads she experienced there. However, the shadows of personal struggles, such as her husband’s career challenges and her own feelings of inadequacy, kept the story grounded. Angell’s reflections on motherhood during this period were particularly touching, capturing the joy and sacrifices that come with raising children while chasing personal aspirations.
Angell’s writing is honest and introspective, often leaving me feeling as though I were sitting with her, sharing a cup of tea as she unfolded her life’s tapestry. Her decision to embrace her imperfections and find peace with her past felt like a gentle nudge to do the same in my own life. While Angell’s detailed descriptions add richness to her narrative, there are sections, particularly those that delve deeply into historical or familial context, that I feel are prolonged and detract from the emotional momentum of her personal journey.
I’d recommend A Life Lived on Three Continents to anyone who enjoys memoirs steeped in cultural exploration and personal growth. It’s perfect for readers who value stories of resilience, identity, and the ever-evolving search for belonging. Angell’s journey left me feeling reflective, inspired, and grateful for the resilience within us all.
Pages: 268 | ASIN : B0DK8966YD
Gun Fights, Ghosts and Goannas
Gun Fights, Ghosts and Goannas by Gary Wood chronicles an extraordinary journey through Queensland, blending adventure, culture, and history. Frustrated by the endless grind of working to make a living, Gary set off on a bold bike expedition. His courage was rewarded with unforgettable experiences and profound insights. From uncovering the history of Dead Man’s Island—the final resting place of the first European to die in the region—to reveling in Central Queensland’s vibrant wildlife, Gary’s odyssey captures the heart of exploration. As he roams the landscapes, he reflects on life’s connections and the ties between his past and present.
This book is perfect for history enthusiasts. Gary’s story brims with captivating details, like the story of the Roma Court House and the notorious cattle thief, Captain Starlight. Rich cultural themes further enhance the book’s appeal, offering pearls of wisdom and memorable advice. For instance, I learned a quirky survival tip: follow kangaroos if lost in Australia, as they often lead to roads. Gary’s knack for weaving historical facts with cultural insights creates an engaging tapestry that immerses the reader. The meticulous attention to detail allows readers to connect deeply with the journey.
Vivid descriptions bring the road paths to life, while Gary’s reflections reveal his evolving mental state—exhaustion, relief, excitement, and more. These moments anchor the narrative, making it as much about self-discovery as physical exploration. Gary’s personality shines through every page. His stories, brimming with wit and candor, delve into his personal history, musings on the modern work culture, and observations from the road. His struggle to break free from the monotony of working life resonates deeply. Adventurers and dreamers alike will find inspiration in his triumph of riding over 20,000 kilometers.
Gun Fights, Ghosts and Goannas invites readers to embrace adventure and see the world with fresh eyes. Gary writes with generosity and charm, ensuring no detail is overlooked. This book will spark your wanderlust, teach you about Queensland’s rich history, and challenge you to rethink the possibilities of your own journey.
Pages: 266 | ASIN: B0DDHSSVGZ
How to Be a Digital Nomad: 50 Practical Tips, Interviews, and Personal Insights
In How to Be a Digital Nomad, author Erin Michelson takes readers on a thrilling and wisdom-packed journey into the world of location-independent living. Drawing from her own 15 years of global nomadic experience, Michelson compiles 50 practical tips, insightful interviews with fellow wanderers, and stories that oscillate between hilarious and inspiring. This book is as much a guide to the logistics of a nomadic lifestyle as it is a celebration of embracing the world’s wide horizons.
One thing that struck me immediately was how Michelson blends realism with a genuine passion for travel. She doesn’t sugarcoat the difficulties of staying financially afloat on the road, which is a refreshing honesty right from the first chapter. The author’s breakdown of budgeting, like her anecdote about choosing a $550 shared NYC room to afford two months on a Dominican Republic beach, demonstrates a thoughtful approach to balancing luxury and thriftiness. Her analysis of the FIRE (Financial Independence, Retire Early) movement gave me a lot to consider in terms of financial planning, and I appreciated her resourceful, street-smart strategies. Michelson also sheds light on the entrepreneurial spirit that often fuels the digital nomad community. I enjoyed her discussion on “fractional work,” which suggests breaking away from full-time roles and finding freedom in high-paying, part-time executive positions. It’s practical and innovative advice wrapped in Michelson’s signature candor.
Her narration feels as if a knowledgeable friend is giving you a pep talk over coffee. The section on finding community was equally eye-opening. I loved reading about her experiences forming tight-knit relationships while in transit, such as meeting Rudy, who lives on a fully decked-out bus in Colombia. Michelson’s reflections on “intentional community” and nomad events like co-working festivals emphasize that, even while traveling solo, humans crave connection. Her tips for getting involved, like volunteering or attending local Zumba classes, are actionable and warm, and they make the idea of starting over in a new city feel less intimidating.
How to Be a Digital Nomad is an engaging, fun, and practical book for anyone considering a life untethered from a fixed address. Michelson’s advice spans from simple travel hacks to deep insights about self-discovery. I highly recommend it to aspiring nomads, adventure-seekers, and even seasoned travelers looking for a fresh perspective.
Pages: 151 | ASIN : B0D2PQ5YN8
Hans Bodmer Author Interview
The Elderly Gentleman’s Ulyssee is a unique, reflective journey taking readers along as you spend twelve days hiking from Zurich to Geneva. Why was this an important book for you to write?
To get people world wide an idea of the other side of Switzerland.
What were some ideas that were important for you to share in this book?
To publish some of my ideas about the problems of this world
What do you hope is one thing readers take away from your story?
To reflect on the injustice in this world.
Author Links: GoodReads | Website
LITERARY TITAN 