The New Book Review

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Wednesday, January 27, 2016

Interview: Author Student of Gullah and Geechee Cultures

Hi! I am Carolyn Howard Johnson, your trusty New Book Review blogger and author of the multi award-winning HowTo Do It Frugally Series of books for writers. This blog has heretofore been exclusive for reviews but I thought I’d do a special series of interviews after I chatted with Jeanie Loiacono, President of Loiacono Literary Agency – Where ‘can’t’ is not in our vocabulary! I thought sharing the interviews would help the many subscribers and visitors to this New Book Review blog, including authors, reviewers, and, of course, readers who just might find a new favorite author among the featured books and authors.

So, today welcome Stephen Doster.

Stephen Doster was born in England and grew up on St. Simons Island, Georgia. He is a student of history and has extensively researched the Gullah and Geechee cultures of South Carolina and Georgia. He received a degree in Marketing from the University of Georgia and has recently received his Master of Liberal Arts and Science degree with a certificate in history. Doster has appeared at BookExpo, the Southern Festival of Books, the Amelia Island Book Festival, The Southern Kentucky Book Fest and has spoken at colleges, historical societies, and library associations in Georgia, Kentucky, and Tennessee. He has been interviewed on public radio and television in Mississippi, Tennessee, Florida, and Georgia. Currently, he is an assistant editor for a peer-review journal at Vanderbilt University. His other works include: Voices from St. Simons, Lord Baltimore, Georgia Witness, Jesus Tree, Shadow Child, Rose Bush and Her Finest Hour.

1 What is your genre? Is it fiction or nonfiction? All of the above. I’ve written several novels, a couple of oral histories, a book of short stories, and a WWII memoir. I try to write something new and different each time. Probably not the best approach to building an audience, but I sleep well at night.

2 What made you want to be a writer? Living in the South, and especially on the Georgia Coast surrounded by Gullah/Geechee communities. I grew up listening to gifted storytellers. However, I’m not a great raconteur in the oral tradition, so I gravitated to telling stories via the printed word.

3 Of all the authors out there, who inspired you most? Cervantes. He knocked down a lot of walls for future writers. Don Quixote remains a thoroughly modern novel after 400 years.

4 What is your writing style? Do you outline? Linearly? By scene? Why? I start with the seed of an idea and go from there without outlining, at least not on paper. It’s like taking a journey and constantly asking, “What happens next?” and then answering that question. When the journey’s done, the book is finished. When I need to work out a plot idea, I take a long walk. Something about being in motion gets the creative juices flowing.

5 Do you write every day? How much? How long? I have adopted the Ringo Starr approach to writing. He doesn’t practice on the drums. He just lays down a rhythm when it’s time to play. I write a lot in the course of my regular (full time) job. So, when it’s time to write a book on my time, I’m primed.

6 Do you think reading is as important to writing for an author? Why? Most of my inspiration and ideas come from reading (especially historical books). I think this is true for most writers. Otherwise, it’s like asking a musician to create a song without having heard other musical works or asking a painter to create something without having seen other paintings. Without reading, you’re recreating the wheel, and probably not doing a good job of it, regardless of the genre you’re in. Another benefit is that reading provides the research required to be historically accurate or to inspire new ideas for a work in progress. Nothing dislodges a reader from the story—or embarrasses a writer—like inaccuracies, historical or otherwise.

7 What are some of the things you would like to share with budding authors? Write what interests you and trust that it will resonate with others (to paraphrase Emerson). If you have a family to support, write whatever pays the bills. You might have to do the latter to support the former.

8 Do you have any marketing and promotional advice, referrals, tips you would like to share? If you can afford it, hire a good PR person. With the right machine behind you, you can sell a lot more books.

9 Do you think conferences are beneficial? If so, what have you learned? Which ones do you frequent? Leave each conference having learned at least one thing or having made at least one connection that will benefit your writing career. It might be an inspired talk or simply meeting another writer who is now a new friend for life.

10 Where can we find you, your books and when is your next event? You can find me at www.sdoster.com Goodreads Amazon Author Central All books can be found on all the online sites: Amazon Fish Pond BAM B&N IndieBound Shelfari Powell’s Books Wheeler’s Books IDreamBooks COPIA Book Depository and more.

Represented by Loiacono Literary Agency, Jeanie Loiacono http://www.loiaconoliteraryagency.com/authors/stephen-doster/

MORE ABOUT THE SPONSORING AGENT

Jeanie Loiacono, President, Loiacono Literary Agency

A facilitator of dreams, Jeanie Loiacono represents over eighty authors. Her forte is mystery, romance, thrillers, historical/military/southern fiction, and all quality fiction/nonfiction. Her passion is to see her authors succeed.
“There is nothing more rewarding than to hold one of my author’s books and know I helped bring it to fruition. I am so blessed and privileged to be able to work with some of the most talented writers in the world.” Jeanie.L@llallc.net www.loiaconoliteraryagency.com

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The New Book Review is blogged by Carolyn Howard-Johnson, author of the multi award-winning HowToDoItFrugally series of books for writers. It is a free service offered to those who want to encourage the reading of books they love. That includes authors who want to share their favorite reviews, reviewers who'd like to see their reviews get more exposure, and readers who want to shout out praise of books they've read. Please see submission guidelines on the left of this page. Reviews and essays are indexed by genre, reviewer names, and review sites. Writers will find the search engine handy for gleaning the names of small publishers. Find other writer-related blogs at Sharing with Writers and The Frugal, Smart and Tuned-In Editor.

Saturday, January 9, 2016

Interview: RH Lewis Helps Kids with Writing After Career in Teaching, Coaching

So, today welcome RH Lewis.

RH Lewis, was born in a small New Jersey town. Married with two grown daughters and four grandchildren, he now resides in Florida. His life has always been dedicated to enriching lives. As a Youth pastor, teacher and coach it has always been his belief that within each person are planted the seeds of greatness and that it is his job to cultivate those seeds. Recently retired, for twenty-one years he coached winning Mathcounts teams. In all, his teams have won over 1000 awards. Mr. Lewis has been recognized as teacher of the year, Math coach of the year, Mathcounts coach of the year, and Prism teacher of the year. As a writer, he loves weaving tales of mystery, suspense, and adventure with real life. When Mr. Lewis isn’t writing or teaching he enjoys cartooning, oil painting, sculpturing and playing with his grandchildren.

Lewis’ stories give credit to the intelligence of young people and the important role education plays in life. He is the author of Secrets of Bayboro Mansion, The Shroud, Wormhole and Run For Your Life, which is based on his own life experience.

What is your genre? Is it fiction or nonfiction? YA fiction
What made you want to be a writer? The youth of America are thirsty for inspiration and motivation. As a pastor and teacher, writing allows me to weave uplifting messages into adventures and mysteries. Quenching that thirst is my ministry.
Of all the authors out there, who inspired you most? Frank E. Peretti
What is your writing style? Do you outline? Linearly? By scene? Why? I see the entire story playing out in my mind before the first word is typed. However, like Steven King, I let my characters help write the story. Outlines are usually abandoned by the second chapter and linear bends by the third.
Do you write every day? How much? How long? I try to write four to five hours every day. Some days it turns into zero hours and some days when the story is in control it turns into twenty-four. I never count the pages only the time spent with my characters.
Do you think reading is as important to writing for an author? Why? Reading what your audience is reading is crucial to creating a voice that speaks to their hearts and minds.
What are some of the things you would like to share with budding authors? Forget about writing a perfect manuscript instead concentrate on speaking to your readers in the language they speak.
Do you have any marketing and promotional advice, referrals, tips you would like to share? Find out where your audience gathers and be there.
Do you think conferences are beneficial? If so, what have you learned? Which ones do you frequent? I'm new to this so I can't give a big thumbs up or down until I've been to a few.
Where can we find you, your books and when is your next event? My books can be found online @ Amazon and Barnes & Noble. My next event is Southwest Middle School December 4 2015, Bayside High School January 27, and Discovery Elementary School January 28. Brevard Schools Foundation (Date not yet set). www.rhlewisbooks.weebly.com

RH Lewis, weaves tales of mystery, suspense and adventure with real life. Once you enter his books, you never leave the same. Facebook LinkedIn Represented by Loiacono Literary Agency, Jeanie Loiacono http://www.loiaconoliteraryagency.com/authors/rh-lewis/

R.H. Lewis weaving life-changing Power into adventures, mysteries, and thrillers.

MORE ABOUT THE SPONSORING AGENTS

Jeanie Loiacono, President, Loiacono Literary Agency

MORE ABOUT THE SPONSORING AGENTS

Tuesday, December 22, 2015

Movie Critic Writes Book on Gangsters in Trend-Setting Films

So, today welcome Dr. Bob Blackwood.

Dr. Bob Blackwood earned a Ph.D. in English Literature from Loyola University in 1972 with a dissertation on Shakespeare’s “Coriolanus.” He taught English, Literature, Film Study and Photography at Wilbur Wright College in Chicago until 2000, when he took an early retirement. For over forty years, he has continued to review books on film criticism and film history for Choice, the magazine of the American Library Association.

His nonfiction, From the Silent Era to “The Sopranos”: Italian American Gangsters in Trend-Setting Films and Television Shows (Publish America, 2006), contains critical commentary on the major Italian-American gangster films and TV shows and biographical data on the actors from The Black Hand (1906) to The Sopranos (1999-2005). Early 1930s sound films include Little Caesar, Scarface; from the 1940s—Kiss of Death, Key Largo; from the 1950s—Guys and Dolls and Some Like It Hot; and from the1960s—The St. Valentine’s Day Massacre, and The Brotherhood…among many others. Special chapters were needed for Martin Scorsese’s films (Mean Streets, Goodfellas, Casino) and Francis Ford Coppola’s films (The Godfather trilogy, The Cotton Club). The analysis includes seventy-seven contemporary films, such as: Thief, Prizzi’s Honor, Miller’s Crossing,Married to the Mob, True Romance, Bugsy, Out for Justice, Bullets Over Broadway, Get Shorty, Gotti, Donnie Brasco, Analyze This, and A History of Violence. Mentioned television shows include The Untouchables, Crime Story, Wise Guy and The Sopranos with an episode guide.

Since 1965, Blackwood has been writing film reviews for various publications, such as The Chicago Seed, Kosmozodiac, La Parola del Popolo, The Leader Newspapers, The Near North News from 1995-2002, and The Columbia River Reader (Oregon/Washington) from 2008-today. At Wilbur Wright College, he created the Literature and Film course. In addition, he has worked as a photojournalist and correspondent for Fra Noi (Chicagoland’s Italian American Voice) from 1989-2004. Blackwood served as President of the International Press Club of Chicago for 2006 & 2007. He was also the editor of the College Union Voice, the newspaper of the Cook County College Teachers Union, AFT Local 1600, and the union’s webmaster and head writer/editor & photojournalist 2001-2012. In the last fifteen years, he has attended, moderated and participated in panels on film and/or literature at various SF and fantasy conventions throughout North America. Bob began reading the James Bond novels in the 1950s and is a life-long devotee of Ian Fleming. He has also co-authored two books with Dr. John Flynn: Everything I Know About Life I Learned From James Bond and Future Prime: Top Ten Science Fiction Films (Library Tales Publishing, 2015).

1. What is your genre? Is it fiction or nonfiction? Nonfiction

2. What made you want to be a writer? I’ve worked as a reporter and public relations person.

3. Of all the authors out there, who inspired you most? Hemingway, Hunter S. Thompson.

4. What is your writing style? Do you outline? Linearly? By scene? Why? I outline.

5. Do you write every day? How much? How long? No.

6. Do you think reading is as important to writing for an author? Why? You need inspiration when your own fails you.

7. What are some of the things you would like to share with budding authors? The need to stay with a project.

8. Do you have any marketing and promotional advice, referrals, tips you would like to share? Get a good agent; I’m lucky.

9. Do you think conferences are beneficial? If so, what have you learned? Which ones do you frequent? They are an opportunity to strut your stuff.

10. Where can we find you, your books and when is your next event? Online on my website bob@blackwood.org. Represented by Loiacono Literary Agency, Jeanie Loiacono http://www.loiaconoliteraryagency.com/authors/bob-blackwood/ Everything I Know About Life I Learned from James Bond & Future Prime: The Top Ten Science Fiction Films co-authored with Dr. John L. Flynn.

MORE ABOUT THE SPONSORING AGENT

Jeanie Loiacono, President, Loiacono Literary Agency

Sunday, December 6, 2015

Literary Agent Interviews Horror Writer

So, today welcome Michael Infinito.

Michael Infinito has been hailed as the next Stephen King.

A novelist and short story writer, he grew up in New Jersey but now resides under the clear blue skies of eastern North Carolina. With a life-long passion for literary arts, his goal has always been to create compelling stories that people won’t want to put down. He has written several novels: 12:19 (MuseItUp Publishing) The Death Site, The Hanging Tree, XXXtreme Discretion and The Colby Ghost (Black Opal Books) with more to come.

1. What is your genre? Is it fiction or nonfiction? Fiction. I write some horror like 12:19; thrillers like A Wish To Die For and XXXtreme Discretion, A soon-to-be-released historical ghost story of sorts called The Hanging Tree, and a paranormal love story named The Colby Ghost. I write what I'm feeling at the time, so I might drift from a set genre at times. I even wrote a young adult Halloween story, The Secrets of Hallow.

2. What made you want to be a writer? I've always enjoyed telling stories, even when I was a kid. I was never much good with a typewriter, but computers made it easier for me to get my thoughts out.

3. Of all the authors out there, who inspired you most? Probably Poe. I follow books that catch my attention more than specific authors.

4. What is your writing style? Do you outline? Linearly? By scene? Why? I'm fairly linear. I outline loosely on occasion, but for the most part I keep the story in my head. I usually have the ending mapped out before I start the story.

5. Do you write every day? How much? How long? Depends on my day job. My first novel was written during lunches on the back of construction plans. I fit writing in as best I can.

6. Do you think reading is as important to writing for an author? Why? Not at all. I haven't read someone else's work in over two years. If you have your own style, and your own ideas, why would you need inspiration from a fellow author? Just my opinion.

7. What are some of the things you would like to share with budding authors? Just write because you like it. Don't view it as a job opportunity. I'd write even if I never made a dime.

8. Do you have any marketing and promotional advice, referrals, tips you would like to share? I need someone to share them with me. lol I don't feel that self-promotion is my strong point.

9. Do you think conferences are beneficial? If so, what have you learned? Which ones do you frequent? Haven't been to one, but I'd love to go. I will get to one soon. I believe showing up anywhere would be beneficial. When people can put a face to a name it really helps.

10. Where can we find you, your books and when is your next event? Online at major retailers. I do not have any events lined up as of now. www.michaelinfinito.com www.wizardofotin.blogspot.com Facebook Twitter

Represented by Loiacono Literary Agency, Jeanie Loiacono http://www.loiaconoliteraryagency.com/authors/michael-infinito/

MORE ABOUT THE SPONSORING AGENTS

Melissa.C@llallc.net http://www.loiaconoliteraryagency.com/authors/drake-vaughn/ Agent, Marketing and Publicity – Melissa Carrigee

Facebook Melissa Carrigee Covers Melissa Carrigee Book Trailers

Carrigee Graphic Art Contract Template

Reading and writing is a way of life for Melissa Carrigee. As a literary agent and award winning graphic artist, she combines her two passions of business and writing. She has published works in newspapers and magazines as well as a published novel. Featured Columnist for The Family Forum, Parents and Kids Magazine – Mississippi Gulf Coast.

I want a horror book to read all night long while I check behind the doors for the boogey man. I’m looking for a thriller that keeps me reading and guessing (and just when I think I’ve figured it out, I’m wrong). I’m looking for children’s books that engage the parent and the child. I’m looking for young adult novels – but NOT Twilight and not wizards. That’s been done. I’m looking for any story with a great plot. Something I can sit and read in a few days with characters that make me think about them long after I’ve finished the book.

Genres: horror, science fiction, historical fiction, commercial fiction, mysteries, thrillers, dramas, historical romance, children’s (picture and mid-grade)—any book that has a great story with unforgettable characters.

Jeanie Loiacono, President, Loiacono Literary Agency - A facilitator of dreams, Jeanie Loiacono represents over eighty authors. Her forte is mystery, romance, thrillers, historical/military/southern fiction, and all quality fiction/nonfiction. Her passion is to see her authors succeed.

“There is nothing more rewarding than to hold one of my author’s books and know I helped bring it to fruition. I am so blessed and privileged to be able to work with some of the most talented writers in the world.” Jeanie.L@llallc.net www.loiaconoliteraryagency.com

IF YOU WOULD LIKE TO SEE MORE INTERVIEWS--TO FIND GREAT READING OR TO NETWORK WITH AUTHORS--PLEASE SUBSCRIBE TO THIS BLOG. YOU ARE A WELCOME ADDITION TO THIS FAMILY WHO LOVES BOOKS! YOU'LL FIND A WINDOW TO DO THIS AT THE TOP OF THIS BLOG PAGE.

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The New Book Review is blogged by Carolyn Howard-Johnson, author of the multi award-winning HowToDoItFrugally series of books for writers. It is a free service offered to those who want to encourage the reading of books they love. That includes authors who want to share their favorite reviews, reviewers who'd like to see their reviews get more exposure, and readers who want to shout out praise of books they've read. Please see submission guidelines on the left of this page. Reviews and essays are indexed by genre, reviewer names, and review sites. Writers will find the search engine handy for gleaning the names of small publishers. Find other writer-related blogs at Sharing with Writers and The Frugal, Smart and Tuned-In Editor.

Friday, June 12, 2015

Author Consultant Loves New Memoir

Title: The Crazy Floridan and the Birds...or the Search for
Feather Presents
Author: Jean Williams
Author Website: featherpresents.wordpress.com
Twitter: http://twitter.com/featherpresents
FB fan page: https://www.facebook.com/Featherpresents?fref=ts
Book trailer: N/A
ISBN:978-1511489256
Genre: Creative nonfiction (memoir written in 3rd person)

Reviewed by: Teresa Morrow

This book, The Crazy Floridian and the Birds..., gives the reader
insight from a woman whose purpose is about sharing love, pure
and simple. She shares her journey from childhood to adulthood
and seeking who she is and her place in the world while finding
what matters to her. It a heartfelt story that showcases love
for people as humans at its core as she incorporates her
discovering of bird watching and how it fills her with joy.

ABOUT THE AUTHOR

Jean Williams is an autistic woman who grew up the only child of
brilliant parents who never sought a diagnosis for her, seeing
her only as difficult, problematic and an under-achiever.
Diagnosed as a young adult, Jean struggled for years with
issues of self-esteem, and never even hoped to find self-love.
An unfulfilling career as a Software Engineer, and difficulties
making and keeping friendships added to her view of herself as a
failure. Realizing finally that she never had to live up to the
ideals of her parents - and looking to find and live only toward
her own ideals has finally helped her to live her a life of
happiness.

ABOUT THE REVIEWER
Teresa Morrow, The Spiritual Author's Cheerleader, is a writer's coach and online book marketing consultant. She hosts "Inspiration Nation Radio" where she shares inspiration through the world of words. She is also the author of
Life Lessons from the Heart and Healing from Broken Trust: A Journey of Transformation,

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The New Book Review is blogged by Carolyn Howard-Johnson, author of the multi award-winning HowToDoItFrugally series of books for writers. It is a free service offered to those who want to encourage the reading of books they love. That includes authors who want to share their favorite reviews, reviewers who'd like to see their reviews get more exposure, and readers who want to shout out praise of books they've read. Please see submission guidelines on the left of this page. Reviews and essays are indexed by genre, reviewer names, and review sites. Writers will find the search engine handy for gleaning the names of small publishers. Find other writer-related blogs at Sharing with Writers and The Frugal, Smart and Tuned-In Editor.

Sunday, May 24, 2015

Tales2Inspire ~ The Ruby Collection - Created by Lois W. Stern

Tales2Inspire ~ The Ruby Collection (Gifts of Compassion):

ISBN-10: 149594008X

ISBN-13: 978-1495940088

Genre:

Inspirational, Motivational, Non-fiction, Short Story Collection

EXPANDED AND REVISED 2018

_________________________________________

REVIEWS

True Stories of Inspiration, Compassion and Love

By Gail Sobotkin

Happyboomernurse

I have read each story and can honestly say I don't have a favorite. Each and every story touched my heart deeply. If you ever wondered what it would be like to live in a world where people and animals are treated with compassion, kindness and love, where the human spirit rises up again and again to meet seemingly impossible challenges, where faith triumphs over despair, where young children and abused animals teach adult humans life lessons, where the homeless are treated with respect and compassion, you must read The Ruby Collection, an amazing anthology of 14 true stories that will inspire you to live your own life with an open heart--- despite, or perhaps because of, whatever difficulties you may face.

Compassion is a gift that keeps on giving; it changes the giver, recipient, and all those who witness the compassionate act. It makes the world a better, kinder place and when delivered with love, has the power to transform the globe one person, one animal at a time.

The Ruby Collection makes a great gift for children and adults. Treat yourself to a copy and buy one for your friends, colleagues and relatives. Ask them to read the book then pass it on to an institution such as a library, hospital or school so that the stories will be spread far and wide, planting seeds of inspiration, compassion and love.

Inspiring

By Shauna L Bowling

Freelance Writer/Copy Editor

. . . a book of inspiration that uplifts the reader with each story. From human/animal spiritual connections to human/human connections, these true stories of courage, love, and strength are proof that good exists in the world. We can and do overcome the odds each and every day. If you have any doubts about the power of love, read this book. All it takes is one person to reach out to make positive changes in someone's life.

I highly recommend this book to readers of all ages. It just may change your life!

Another Chicken Soup for the Soul

Warmly recommended, By Bani Sodermark

Reviewer for Book Pleasures and Amazon Vine Voice Reviewer

This is a feel good book documenting a collection of true stories that involve genuine empathy and kindness to other living beings including oneself. It arose out of a writing contest by an organization called "Authors Helping Author" and includes the best contributions that were submitted. The result is a very readable and well written book enshrined in the symbol of the ruby which stands for kindness and compassion.

That which is most appealing about this collection of stories is that the kindness shown at one instance of time is nearly always repaid in some way or other, forging deep and lasting bonds as the protagonists walk their life paths in tandem with one another. In some cases, they may experience a total reversal of a bodily malfunction as in the case of the first story, in which a man took care of a wounded eagle, unable to fly and nursed it to wellness. Later on, he was afflicted with cancer and he is convinced that dream conversations with his pet eagle, supplemented with chemo, was the cause of his total recovery.

A second story documents the success of a program called "Labs`n Life" in which dysfunctional children with learning and other problems are made to train Labradors. The interaction with these intelligent and loving animals, miraculously opens up these children and helps them integrate into the mainstream.

The theme of working with animals continues with the rehabilitation stories of Dusty the horse and Rae the dog who are restored to their playful selves and fulfil memorable relationships with their caregivers.

A few of the stories will touch you deep down inside. There is the erstwhile convict, Ray, who after years of confrontation with the bullying and sadistic warden of the penitentiary that he had occupied since his late teens, helped set fire to it. The warden was changed to one who had a record of successfully rehabilitating dreaded inmates and the whole atmosphere of the place changed as the convicts applied their energies to study and vocational training. There were no more incidents of arson or otherwise and our friend, Ray, after he was released was able to successfully land a job, get married and raise a family.

There is the holocaust survivor, who neutralized the actions of local politicians by going out with his own message of peaceful coexistence, ultimately reaching out to millions.

Another story that I will find difficult to forget is the story of a young African American black belt karate champion on the karate circuit, who it seems always acted rough if he or his team lost. It turned out that he had dedicated his life to saving children in the roughest quarters of Miami from a life of crime, by loading as many as possible into a van that was to take them to the tournament. If he did not win, he would have to borrow the money for the gas home.

There is the story of a former citizen of Rwanda, who returned to his homeland after the genocide and helped many people work their way out of poverty using his engineering skills and thus finding the way to his true calling. . . .

Other inspiring stories include that of a young woman who appeared in the Guinness Book of Records after running seven marathons in seven continents. There is also the unusual story of window cleaners outside a hospital dressing up as children's heroes, e.g. Batman to cheer up children suffering from debilitating diseases.

The length of the manuscript is optimal, not too long, not too short.

This book, in my opinion, the best so far, in the Tales 2 Inspire series, created by Editor, Lois W. Stern. The storytelling is chiseled and evocative. . . . One can never read too many of such stories, of seeing the way love and spirit redefine priorities and guide the human race out of black holes of its own making.

We Need More Love and Kindness

By Mommy to Twins

Today, the news is full of negative stories. We need more positivity and compassion in our lives. In fact, the research supports that "extending compassion toward others biases the brain to glean more positive information from the world, something called the 'carryover effect.' And compassionate action--such as giving some of one's own earnings to charity--also activates pleasure circuits, which some people call 'the warm glow.'

These heartfelt stories of compassion, love, and kindness, help us to know that there are good people in the world who live their life with an open heart. They provide the necessary inspiration we need to live our own lives more compassionately. It reminds us that it really takes just one person to make a real difference in the life of another. These are stories that should be shared with everyone.

Warm Feeling

by Rod DiGruttolo
Published author, Group Leader for the Sarasota Writers Group

Tales of compassionate souls are always heartfelt even if they are something we do not see often enough. The Ruby Collection of Tales2Inspire presents a group of such stories that keep warm feelings bubbling in your heart for months to come.

From abused animals to frightened children, the gifts of human and animal alike jump off the page and embrace the reader. From the furthest corners of the world, injured eagles; horses destined for the slaughterhouse; a family dealing with the death of a wife and mother; children in hospital frightened while dealing with terrible pain and patients facing their fears, feel the compassion of people and creatures around them.

Fourteen stories of courage, compassion and love grace the pages of this wonderful tome. A must read for all.

Gifts of Compassion

By Michael Monji

Tree Whisperer, Amazon Vine Voice Reviewer

On a scale of 1 to 5, this series of Tales2Inspire books is a whopping TEN! This particular book will inspire you to never give up. The courage that these people showed is unbelievable. When you think time are tough for you, then you need to read this book. Your problems and worries will fade away. Now go out an buy all four books.

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Friday, May 15, 2015

Inspirational Author Review Inspiration Self Help Book

Title: Control Your Now
Author: Sharon Salvaggio
Author Website: http://sharonsalvaggio.com
FB fan page: https://www.facebook.com/smcgannsalvaggio?fref=ts
Book trailer
ISBN: 978-1-62854-342-1
Genre: Self help

"This pocket sized book is full of great ideas, tools and
exercises that anyone can use to help them control your now. I
enjoyed reading as the author provided simple but effective
elements throughout the book."

Reviewed by: Teresa Morrow

Sharon Salvaggio is a life coach that shares her philosophy
that we as individuals can "control our now" through gentle
understanding and patience with life's ups and downs. As a
former corporate financial officer, Sharon takes her business
and personal experiences and threads them into her work as a
coach, speaker and author. In her latest book, Control Your
Now, she integrates her philosophy and chronicles what she has
learned through various practices such as Accountability and
Allowing Success. She believes that everyone is responsible for
how they deal with their own lives. She briefly lived in Belize
in 2002 for 3 months. Sharon currently lives in Florida with her
husband Steve, their kids and her dog, Apollo.

Sign up to receive free report "10 ways to Control Your Now" at
SharonSalvaggio.com.

Submitted By:
Teresa Morrow aka The Author's Cheerleader
http://teresamorrow.com
Working with spiritual authors to get their unique message out
to the world. She is also host of "Inspiration Nation Radio"
http://blogtalkradio.com/inspirationnation, Sharing Inspiration through the World of Words, and an
inspirational author, blogger, poet and author of 'Life Lessons from the Heart'
and 'Healing from Broken Trust: A Journey of Transformation'

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The New Book Review is blogged by Carolyn Howard-Johnson, author of the multi award-winning HowToDoItFrugally series of books for writers. It is a free service offered to those who want to encourage the reading of books they love. That includes authors who want to share their favorite reviews, reviewers who'd like to see their reviews get more exposure, and readers who want to shout out praise of books they've read. Please see submission guidelines on the left of this page. Reviews and essays are indexed by genre, reviewer names, and review sites. Writers will find the search engine handy for gleaning the names of small publishers. Find other writer-related blogs at Sharing with Writers and The Frugal, Smart and Tuned-In Editor.

Friday, May 1, 2015

Tales2Inspire ~ The Sapphire Collection

TALES2INSPIRE ~ THE SAPPHIRE COLLECTION

Timeless Memories

Title: Tales2inspire ~ The Sapphire Collection

Subtitle: Timeless Memories

Publisher: Lois W. Stern for Tales2Inspire®

Authors: Lois W. Stern plus winning authors: Tom Eliopoulos, Ashley Howland, Jenna Ludwig, Mary Romero, Sharon S. Johnson, Maurice Nadjari, Mark Newhouse, Janice Emeneau, Micki Peluso, Pauline Hager, Rod DiGruttolo, T. H. Everingham, Mort Laitner, Susan C. Haley

Genre: Anthology of inspiring true stories

ISBN-13: 978-1499539516
ISBN-10: 1499539517

ASIN: B00MER58YA

Page count: 127

Price

Paperback: $11.25

Kindle: $4.99

BUY HERE:

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REVIEWS

A READERS FAVORITE 5 STAR REVIEW By Mamta Madhavan

. . . a collection of insightful & inspirational stories (to) help bring about positive changes in the minds of readers. These stories will move the hearts of readers with their personal experiences . . . helping to change one's perspective. The author's idea of bringing different writers together to share their inspirational & motivational stories . . . gives varied echoes to the stories, (each with) an individual voice revolving around the human spirit & the conditions that prevail in human minds. Gives readers a sense of hope and peace.

LIGHT AND HOPE

By multi-published author, Russ Heitz

This is a time of 24-hour TV newscasts. It is a time of screaming headlines and explicit videos. Whether it is the latest slaughter of innocents or the most catastrophic of natural disasters. Whether the images are of starving babies or dying epidemic victims. The tragedies and pain and suffering that we are confronted with every day are sometimes overwhelming. And because of this unremitting onslaught we sometimes forget that there is another side to this ongoing biography of the human race. Not all of its events are horrendous. Not all of its members are monsters. Not all of its behaviors are deplorable. And not all of its thoughts are centered on darkness. On the contrary, there are glimmers of light and goodness scattered everywhere, in all directions. But they can be seen only by those who look carefully and watch with patience.

The writers of these little Sapphire Edition essays are those kinds of careful lookers and patient watchers. Their stories are varied; their experiences run the gamut. Maybe it's a dog with a goofy grin or a cardinal plunging through an evergreen. Maybe it's a lost but rediscovered letter. Maybe it's a calamity that did NOT happen. Maybe it's a gift that only a grandson can give to a beloved grandfather. Or maybe it's a birthday card that carries warm memories for years afterwards, both for the sender and for the receiver.

These are the kinds of positive human experiences that are illuminated by the essays in this small but overflowing collection. Each piece has its own message of inspiration. Each piece has its own way of delivering that message.

INSPIRATIONAL STORIES THAT ENRICH THE SOUL AND NOURISH THE MIND

by William Engels

Tales2Inspire - The Sapphire Collection: Echoes in the Mind by Lois W. Stern certainly delivers just what it promises from its title -- inspirational stories of universal appeal that enrich the soul, nourish the mind and offer us valuable lessons about living a fulfilling life. This book contains a collection of fourteen non-fiction stories written by authors from a wide range of backgrounds, including different educational levels, religions and geographical regions. But despite these differences, all of the tales deal with common themes that connect us all with each other: serendipity or destiny, spirituality, religion, cherished items that remind us of our heritage ("Just A Pickle and A Chair," written by Editor Lois W. Stern), lost opportunities, new beginnings, the importance of bringing joy to loved ones and devotion to animals and understanding how they help to make people's lives better.

Additionally, these stories contain valuable lessons for all of us. In "What is Life," Melissa Noel shows us how to overcome incredible adversity and hardship with courage, perseverance, hope and faith. In "Doorways," Susan C. Haley demonstrates how to learn from the challenges presented by confronting and conquering grief and other obstacles. In "At Least Nothing Bad Happened," Janice Emeneau teaches us the importance of positive thinking as a way to improve the quality of our lives, even our health. Finally "In All That Glitters...," Maurice Nadjari shows by example how following a path of morality, honesty and integrity is an effective way to live a free and independent life.

I highly recommend this book. I found it uplifting, encouraging and comforting because it confirms to its readers that they are not alone in dealing with these common human experiences

MEMORABLE THREADS IN THE FABRIC OF LIFE

By Bani Sodermark: an Amazon VINE VOICE and Book Pleasures reviewer

This book is a collection of memorable incidentby ordinary people with a flair for writing. Editor-cum-author Lois Stern, has in this connection, presented an assortment of stories that "echo in the mind" as these moments are relived over and over again. Some of the contributors are published authors in their own right, others are less well known. The common ground between them all is their passion for the written word.

The first story "Hand of Destiny" tells of an incredible coincidence in the life of an ex fighter pilot in World War II. Then there is the story of an amazing dog, who was successfully used by his mistress as part of her school management program. Meaningful contact with family members who have passed on is provided by two of the authors, while the editor herself tells the story of a chair with a history. Another moving story, which struck a personal chord is about the memories stirred up by a cup of hot chocolate and how it helped ease discord in parent-child relationships.

Next comes the story of an attorney who "fought hard to hold on to the things that were of most value to him while investigating the greatest heist in American history. A motivational speaker mentions two close calls and how she survived to tell the tale.

A son of a Holocaust survivor recalls how reticence prevented him from finding out the truth of his mother's experiences until it was too late. In another story, the author acknowledges the powerful effect of a grateful smile while traveling in foreign climes. Yet another tells the story of a friend with learning disability who overcame incredible odds in order to establish herself in society.

There is also the heartwarming story of a young boy who plots a secret treat for his grandfather.

The writing in each of these anecdotes has been painstakingly chiseled to near perfection. Each story is accompanied by one or more photographs and a paragraph about its author. . . it is clear, that the text has been put together with care and artistry, making it a truly pleasurable read for a lazy summer day.

BY LINDA MARIA FRANK

Host of the LTV Show: The Writer’s Dream, Author of the Annie Tillery Mystery Series

In this latest of Lois W. Stern's "Tales 2 Inspire” collections, we again come to know about the incredible resiliency of the human spirit, and the intricacies of the human mind. Such stories of the individuality, yet common themes of the human condition do inspire. For those of us who find ourselves questioning the conditions of the world around us, Stern's "Tales2Inspire" series gives hope. If it's time for you to find a peaceful place to nurture your own dreams, take comfort in this series. Read, enjoy, and feel good.

WOW, GET THESE BOOKS

By Michael Monji, the "Tree Whisperer”

Amazon VINE VOICE Reviewer

Wow!! The author has done a fantabulous job of bringing heart warming stories to life. She has brought together authors that have stories that will make you say how grateful you are for the things and loved ones in your life. You need to read all four books in the series to truly appreciate what each author has to say.

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Lois Speaks About Tales2Inspire®

Tales2Inspire® was a kernel of an idea that I started in 2012 which has grown to proportions even I didn’t dare to envision. My innate curiosity about potentially fascinating human interest stories was the spark that ignited this idea, but it was the confused state of traditional publishing at that time that propelled me forward. Tales2Inspire® delivers exactly what it promises as both an ‘Authors Helping Authors’ project and a contest. Winners get their stories published in print, as e-books, and some even in video formats, with their names, headshot photos, and mini-autobiographies included. Then I spread the word about the winners and their stories on my blogs, social media and monthly newsletter. FREE to enter, this is a great competition for talented newbies and seasoned authors alike.

Click here to learn more about Lois and her Tales2Inspire®

Authors Helping Authors project/contest at:

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----- The New Book Review is blogged by Carolyn Howard-Johnson, author of the multi award-winning HowToDoItFrugally series of books for writers. It is a free service offered to those who want to encourage the reading of books they love. That includes authors who want to share their favorite reviews, reviewers who'd like to see their reviews get more exposure, and readers who want to shout out praise of books they've read. Please see submission guidelines on the left of this page. Reviews and essays are indexed by genre, reviewer names, and review sites. Writers will find the search engine handy for gleaning the names of small publishers. Find other writer-related blogs at Sharing with Writers and The Frugal, Smart and Tuned-In Editor.

Pages

Wednesday, January 27, 2016

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Saturday, January 9, 2016

Interview: RH Lewis Helps Kids with Writing After Career in Teaching, Coaching

Tuesday, December 22, 2015

Movie Critic Writes Book on Gangsters in Trend-Setting Films

Sunday, December 6, 2015

Literary Agent Interviews Horror Writer

Friday, June 12, 2015

Author Consultant Loves New Memoir

Sunday, May 24, 2015

Tales2Inspire ~ The Ruby Collection - Created by Lois W. Stern

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POPULAR LINKS

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Friday, May 15, 2015

Inspirational Author Review Inspiration Self Help Book

Friday, May 1, 2015

Tales2Inspire ~ The Sapphire Collection

Click here to learn more about Lois and her Tales2Inspire®

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