Interview: A Twenty-Five Year Love Affair Writing Books for Children

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 Ruth Wiseman.

Ruth Wiseman has been writing children’s stories since 5th grade, when her English teacher, Mr. Lavrov, inspired her talents. She has been writing children’s books for over twenty-five years and co-edited Broken Glass, Broken Lives: A Jewish Girl’s Survival Story in Berlin 1933-1945 by Rita J. Kuhn. She hopes to be published soon and to share her stories with even more children. She is a grateful mother of two young daughters and two step-sons, and lives in Passaic, NJ. 

What is your genre? Is it fiction or nonfiction? I write children's literature and I am trying my hand at a novel. I've only written the first chapter, but I have to start somewhere! I am also working on a midgrade. 

What made you want to be a writer? When I was twelve-years-old, I had a wonderful English teacher. He engaged my imagination by giving us pictures from which to write stories. Some of them were very silly. I found a whole new voice inside me when I wrote. I was a rather quiet student, but suddenly I found a world in which I could have a strong voice and I wouldn't be teased. My teacher provided feedback as though I were a serious writer. That experience stayed with me all these years. And need I say how much I love the feeling of a new pen and paper?

Of all the authors out there, who inspired you most? I love so many authors, it's hard to name just one. For children's stories I love Barbara Park, Mo Willems, Cynthia Rylant, Bracha Goetz. For middle school books, I adore J.K. Rowling, Sharon Creech, Andrew Clemens, Julie Kagawa, R. J. Palacio, J.R.R. Tolkien. In adult literature, Tolstoy is magnificent, Jhumpa Lahiri is lovely, Amy Tan has colorful, multi-faceted characters, Herman Wouk, John Grisham, Edith Wharton. Really an assortment of writers. I don't have a specific genre that I seek out, just pure, good writing.

What is your writing style? Do you outline? Linearly? By scene? Why? For my children's stories, I will sometimes be given the gift of a full story coming to me in one piece. That is exhilarating. Other stories, I need to massage and rewrite and rewrite. Each one has its own personality. The midgrade I am working on right now (and will probably complete when my current middle school child is in college!), I write by scenes. I think this is because I am seeing the images unfolding in my mind's eye, and it then develops into a narrative. This story, though, is giving me a lot of trouble because I started it in one style and changed the style midstream. I am going to have to go back and rework the first several chapters once I have moved the story line far enough along.

Do you write every day? How much? How long? Ha, that would be nice! I aspire to that. Somehow with a full-time job, an eleven-year old, and a six-year old, I just can't seem to find the time or energy to write every day. I also need a certain physical and mental space for my writing. If I can be in a quiet place—a library, a cool cafe, an empty park—then my concentration is enhanced and the words just flow out of me. But if I am sitting in my office in a slow moment, or waiting to see the doctor, or sitting in my room once my girls are asleep, those times are harder because my mind is on overdrive with other concerns. But those are also the ‘lost moments.’ It's a quandary. I am working on trying to use those moments for some creative purpose. My characters tug at me to listen to them, and I really suffer when I don't.

Do you think reading is as important to writing for an author? Why? Absolutely. It is an excellent way of distinguishing your own voice to read other people's works. I recently read a midgrade book similar in some fashion to the one I am working on, but I finished that book feeling that my concept and writing style is very different and, in my humble opinion, better. I don't always close a book feeling that way. Certainly not the Harry Potter series; Rowling is just sheer inspiration. I want to run and get my quill and go into my characters’ worlds, without thought for my style or my chances of publication. Some writers give me an artistic thirst for creating.

What are some of the things you would like to share with budding authors? Just keep writing. Try not to be your own editor. You have a unique voice, and you do not need to sound like anyone else. The imaginings and perspectives that you have will resonate with a certain audience. Trust in that!

Do you have any marketing and promotional advice, referrals, tips you would like to share? I don't have any just yet, other than the Yiddish word chutzpah. It means ‘you've got to have nerve.’ That is how I found my wonderful literary agent, Jeanie Loiacono. I walked up to a children's author and asked her for publishing advice. She gave me Jeanie's name. It took a year to build up the nerve to contact her, but when I did, I was not sorry that I did! Both those instances involved a certain amount of chutzpah. Any time you put yourself on the line, you are promoting yourself. Any time you tell your colleagues about your work, you are promoting yourself. Just keep believing in your stories, and you will come up with ideas. 

Do you think conferences are beneficial? If so, what have you learned? Which ones do you frequent? I haven't attended any conferences for purely logistical reasons. However, I love being in writing workshops. Any forum that is going to help you focus your creativity and make you take yourself more seriously as a writer is beneficial.

Where can we find you, your books and when is your next event? Keep your eyes peeled for my three children's titles scheduled for publication in 2016 with Saturn Moon's Press, an imprint of Cactus Moon Publications LLC. You can see more about me at: http://ruthcwiseman.wix.com/storywise#   http://www.loiaconoliteraryagency.com/authors/ruth-wiseman 

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

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.

TALES2INSPIRE ~ THE EMERALD COLLECTION - Beyond Coincidence Stories

TALES2INSPIRE ~ THE EMERALD COLLECTION
Beyond Coincidence Stories

Title: Tales2Inspire ~The Emerald Collection

Subtitle: Beyond Coincidence stories

Series: Tales2Inspire®

Authors: Lois W. Stern, Stan Cupery, M.D., Cami Ann Hofstadter, Ph.D, Erica Kosal, Ph.D., Tina Chippas (a.k.a. Matina Nicholas), Anne Knorr, James Osborne, Heidi DuPree, Fran Gustman, T. H. Everingham, Donna Surface, Tom Eliopolus, Cheryl Gerber 

Genre: Inspirational Anthology 

Publisher: Tales2Inspire

Contact: tales2inspire2@gmail.com

ISBN-10: 1492321397

ISBN-13: 978-1492321392

ASIN: B00FW9PFUY

PAGE COUNT: 129

Price: $11.25, PB, $4.99 Kindle

Format: Paperback, Ebook, PDF

________________________________________

REVIEWS  

Dr. Bernie Siegel, Noted physician, healer, author and humanist, (A Book of Miracles, the Art of Healing, 365 Prescriptions for the Soul)

Read and Learn the Lessons of Life

These are books with a heart - filled with stories which reveal what happens when we choose to live in a way that is life enhancing for all God's creatures. Our potential is miraculous when we choose to inspire the vapor of love. The people in these stories have always been my teachers. Read and learn the lessons of life.”

Grady Harp

 Amazon HALL OF FAME TOP 100 REVIEWER

“Oh, by the way, I don't have any legs.”

Lois W Stern has collected a group of tales written by a fascinating group of authors that convey a sense of purpose, destiny, and reason for being. In the original edition of this book, the author offered the following: ‘Is there really such a thing as coincidence, or could there be an unknown force, a higher power, taking charge? This is a question you are likely to ponder as you read the collection of heartwarming stories contained within the pages of this book. Although all are true, don’t be surprised if you find yourself saying “unbelievable” as you finish reading some, or simply getting a feel-good rush from others. Tales 2 Inspire ~ Beyond Coincidence: A collection of inspiring stories written by talented authors from across the globe. Each motivational, uplifting story is enhanced by the inclusion of original, full color photos and/or drawings, making this a treasured gift book at a most reasonable price.’

That states the joy and satisfaction every reader will feel after spending time with this book. Interestingly enough there is a story by Lois that is one of the highlights - the story of an adoption of a handicapped child and the reflections of that child as a young woman: ‘Luck shone down on this infant from the moment she entered the Bricker household. She felt the unconditional love of her parents and three older brothers, all with solid values that helped her grow into the remarkable person she is today. As a young woman reflecting back on her childhood, Jen says with admiration:“ They are amazing and they don’t even realize it. They are just good people. I don’t know how, but they always managed to handle each situation exactly the right way.” From early on the Brickers told Jen that there was no such word as can't. Instead they taught her how to go after the things she really wanted. With their guidance, Jen’s indomitable spirit and confidence soared. She vigorously dove into sports, meeting each challenge head on with confidence and the expectation of success. More often than not, she realized her dreams. Jen led a happy, rewarding life, playing softball, basketball and volleyball. But her passion was gymnastics. When she was ten, she won fourth place in the Amateur Athletic Union's Junior Olympics in Hampton, Va., and was Illinois state power tumbling champion in her division…etc.’

Just a sample - but an indication of the quality of stories collected here. They restore belief, hops, and admiration for humanity.

Susan Haley

Award winning author, Rainy Day People

I would hazard to guess that everyone has had an inspiring dream, cherishes a heart-felt memory, or perhaps a life changing accomplishment that determined the direction their lives would take from there. Also, I would bet that many wish they could put that experience into words to help or inspire others. As a one-time struggling author myself, I am fully aware of the power of words and the joy of knowing they touched someone. The missing elements here are the vision and energy of another inspired person to put it all together and offer up the stage from which to share these hopes, dreams and successes. This is what Lois W. Stern has accomplished with her "Tales2Inspire" Collections; she's offered up the stage.

I met Lois, a new author in her own right then, several years ago when we both became involved with an "Authors Helping Authors" group at a Publisher's Conference. Even then with her own new book recently published, Lois was looking for ways to help all authors. And, help authors she has done. The energy she has put into these series is a "Tale2Inspire" in itself. The heart-warming stories in the Collections showcase that spark of human spirit present in all of us. I strongly recommend them to anyone who has those days when they simply need a lift.

Susan Haley, Author

The amazing coincidences of life, chance meetings of family or loved ones, after sometimes decades apart feature strongly, in both chapters four and five. Again (with an underlying message that anything is possible if you have faith and never give up.)

Chapter six outlines courage in the face of your darkest foe and reminds us that character is something that you earn. There is much joy in chapter seven this is more about unconditional love and the joy it will bring. The story in chapter eight is more reflective, dealing with the more complex emotions of love and loss. Chapters nine and ten are animal stories but are both uplifting. The reader will be cheering for both characters and amazed at the dedication and loyalty bonds between animal families. The final chapters are about love and family. Again there are amazing coincidences that return people together. Maybe this is fate, maybe it is faith but the message again is “Never give up on your hopes”

Overall a good impression and I would look forward to others in the series.

Glenn Poveromo

Motivational Speaker, Author of The Power of Visualization, The Spirit's Self-Help Book, 

Change Your Thinking / Change Your Life: Learn to Live Your Best Life Possible

Beautifully crafted gems - yours to read over and over again

Is it true that there are no coincidences in life? If you believe as I do that there exists an energy that is beyond our five senses then Tales2Inspire is a MUST read for you. Each story will lead you to consider that we are a collective part of something much larger than our individual selves and that divine interventions are available to us at any moment in time. Beginning with the internal voice heard by Dr. Dan Lloyd that moved him to perform his "one-of-a-kind" life saving surgery in The Voice and concluding with the amazing story of Pat Surface in The Gift of Family, Lois W. Stern has achieved her objective in bringing to the reader stories that touch the mind, heart, and soul. The Emerald Collections is the perfect subtitle for the beautifully crafted gems that are yours to read over and over again. I highly recommend this book for anyone who might ever ask the question: "Why not?"

Rod DiGruttolo: author 

Group Leader Sarasota Writers Group

The Emerald Collection of inspiring stories brings us remarkable messages of faith, courage and peace. All these tales depict strength we can only hope to possess in a time of crisis or despair. Each story is unique and gives us an insight into the lives of those who experienced these wondrous moments.

Authors share life experiences that carry us beyond the realm of our everyday existence. We are allowed a brief glimpse into lives of strangers filled with love, hope, despair and longing. Each of these stories brings a new promise of peace to the reader.

Unlike many books that you read just once and put aside, if you are like me, you will want to return to these stories again and again. I felt uplifted by their energy, examples of courage, selfless behaviors, devotion and everyday miracles, and the powerful messages that they held. I will forever be thankful to have shared such special moments in their lives. I can identify with those who triumphed over hardship, helped their fellow man and empathized with the helpless.

Michael Monjion, Amazon Vine Voice Reviewer

I was blown away about the Little White Church story that you must read first. I now know what a miracle really is. These stories are very short but to the point, and you will truly enjoy each and every one of them. The stories will bring tears to your eyes.

Dr. Karen Hutchins Pirnot

Clinical psychologist, Author of fourteen published books including: As I Am, Just a Common Lady, Nothing Left to Burn, Making Love on Scrabble

Truly Tales to Inspire the Heart and Soul

                Do you believe there’s a reason for everything? That people come into our lives, and leave, for aa reason? Well, if so, this book is an inspiration for you all with its messages of hope and inspiration.

Steve Brock

Stevo’s Book Reviews on the internet

Stories to Warm Your Heart, Uplift Your Spirits, and Sometimes Leave You Gasping the Single Word, "Unbelievable." 

               Did you ever experience something that you felt couldn't have happened simply by coincidence - that perhaps an unknown force entered your life to take charge? These are the true 'Beyond Coincidence' inspiring stories (you will read in this book), written by everyday people just like you. 

___________________________________________________

POPULAR LINKS

Tales2Inspire website

Facebook page

Twitter

Amazon author page

BUY HERE

_____________________________________________

MORE 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 who continue to strive to hone their skills.

Children's Christmas Book in Time for Giving

Santa and the Little Teddy Bear
By Cheri & Peter John Lucking
Fiction: Children's/Holiday 

"This is the most beautiful Children's Christmas Book I've seen personally in years!" ~ Stacy Sanders/Sales Manager Borders Books, Colorado
"The artwork is a Magical Kingdom of Vibrant Color, a must see. Original art now
showing at the Kirkland Museum!" ~ Hugh Grant, Director/Curator Kirkland Museum

This 2011 Indie Excellence Award Winning book is intended to be brought out at Christmas time year after year; creating a holiday tradition. Sing carols, each chapter is a bedtime story, delight in the incredible artwork. Peter, the Indie Excellence award winning author and illustrator, has personally experienced each place in the book, (except the North Pole of course). Yes there is even a place called "Last Banana", where the author actually lived as a child. The story leads us through a magical kingdom of color. Carols and traditions are interwoven into Santa and Bilbo's adventure, revealing the meaning of Christmas and why we celebrate.

Teachers will enjoy this book in the classroom. The book contains many opportunities to read, sing and interact with kids. Santa and Bilbo travel the world visiting strange and wonderful places on Christmas night. This book is an excellent tool for building vocabulary, the author is a wordsmith. If you love the English language and the spirit of Christmas this is a book that all the class and teachers will enjoy.

Peter's wife Cheri is an inspiration for his writing, painting and illustrating. Together, their wish is to touch the lives of many children through their generous donations from the proceeds of sales from this book.http://youtu.be/dcqvOOe7tSQ

~Submitted by Denise Cassino, publicist and book marketing specialist:
skype: denise.cassino
www.wizardlywebdesigns.com
www.spiritoftheseasoncatalog.com
www.mybestsellerlaunch.com
Follow me on Twitter @DeniseCassino
Friend me on Facebook Denise.Cassino

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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. As a courtesy to the author, please tweet and retweet this post using this little green retweet widget :

Nina Amir and Writer's Digest Pair for Must-Have Reference for Writers

The Author Training Manual: 

SUBTITLE: Develop Marketable Ideas, Craft Books That Sell,
Become the Author Publishers Want, and Self-Publish Effectively
By Nina Amir
Foreword by James Scott BellAuthors Website: www.ninaamir.com
Category: Authorship
Paperback: 248 pages
Publisher: Writer's Digest Books (March 18, 2014)
Language: English
ISBN-10: 1599631458
ISBN-13: 978-1599631455
Product Dimensions: 9.1 x 7.1 x 0.7 inches
Shipping Weight: 14.4 ounces (View shipping rates and policies)

By Brian Felsen, President, BookBaby www.bookbaby.com

Among the myriad of books written about the business of writing and publishing, Nina Amir's The Author Training Manual is the first I've seen which combines all of the elements necessary to learn how to be an actual (rather than "aspiring") writer.  What makes this book special is its focus on how authors can view themselves and their art from a third person perspective to evaluate why someone might want to purchase or publish a book.  She recommends an analysis of the true size and demographics of a book's potential market, and she shows how to take the point of view of readers and publishers to assess how well a book's purpose matches the needs of its prospective audience.  With this foundation in place, the reader can begin an examination of how to sharpen a book's focus; how to structure a work so the content will match the excitement of the description; and how to write a proposal and build a platform.  The Author Training Manual presents a complete package which, if followed, will serve writers well with their professional careers and with their craft.

MORE ABOUT THE AUTHOR

Nina Amir 
Inspiration-to-Creation Coach
With Nina you... Achieve More Inspired Results
www.ninaamir.com

 
Author of these books for writers:
How to Blog a Book, 
How to Write, Publish and Promote Your Work One Post at a Time 
(Writer's Digest Books)
The Author Training Manual: 
Develop Marketable Ideas, Craft Books That Sell, 
Become the Author Publishers Want, and Self-Publish Effectively 
(Writer's Digest Books)
10 Day and 10 Ways to Return to Your Best Self 
(Pure Spirit Creations)

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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.

Accountant Reviews Book That Inspired Him

Title: Yes You Can ! How to Be a Success no Matter Who You Are or
Where You're From
Author: Bill Townsend
Website: www.interminds.com
Genre: Self-help, motivational, business
ISBN-13: 978-1477659748
Reviewer: Naoto Takazawa, Accountant, Las Vegas, NV

For 9 years I have worked in the accounting department of a mid-sized
company. It is a good job, it pays fairly well, and I am thankful for
it. But I have often wondered if there is something else I should be
doing? Am I destined to move to another company? Should I start my own
accounting firm? Should I change careers completely? And each time I
ask myself these questions, something holds me back.
No longer.

Last week I read "Yes You Can ! How to Be a Success no Matter Who You
Are or Where You're From" by Bill Townsend (available at Amazon.com in
paperback and Kindle).

As a 37 year old with questions about my future, reading this book was
a revelation. It gave me not only the motivation to take action, but
the inspiration to do so. It also helped me determine how to do it, by
giving me tactics to follow. I find that part of the book unique among
self-help books because most talk about how to be better, but few give
you actual tactics to get there.

The author, Bill Townsend, isn’t a Harvard graduate and wasn’t born
with a silver spoon in his mouth. He grew up on a farm in Western
Pennsylvania. His mother had a stroke when he was 5 years old that
left her paralyzed and without speech. He taught her the ABCs and how
to tie her shoes. He earned a degree in art, then worked in
advertising. At age 27 ran for US Congress, almost winning. Then he
got busy. He was the cofounder of Lycos.com, sixdegrees.com (now
LinkedIn), Deja.com (sold to Google and eBay) and 9 other companies. A
pretty successful person by anyone’s thinking.

"Yes You Can! How to Be a Success no Matter Who You Are or Where
You're From" is a motivational book that teaches you how to take
control of your life to become successful in career, love, and life.
There are hundreds of stories of people who started with nothing and
made it: people like John Paul Dejoria, who started John Paul Mitchel
Systems with $700 and is now worth over $4 billion.
"Yes You Can ! How to Be a Success no Matter Who You Are or Where
You're From" is fun to read, nurturing, uplifting, regenerative, and
worth every moment spent in your hands.

P.S. I’ve decided to start my own accounting and bookkeeping service.

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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. As a courtesy to the author, please tell your Facebook friends about it.  

Doctor Pens Medical Thriller

Title: Not For Profit
Author: Glenn Shepard
Website:  http://mysteryhousepublishing.com/
Genre: Medical Thriller/Adult
Publisher: Mystery House Publishing
ISBN: 9780615765525

Reviewed by Mel U originally for ReReadingLives blog

Review:

 

Not for Profit by Glenn Shepard, M. D., is a very gripping, edge of your seat work that amazed me with one exciting totally unexpected event after another.  Evidently, there a quite a number of what are called "medical thrillers" in which physicians use their specialized knowledge to create interesting works of fiction.  Dr. Shepard is a highly experienced plastic surgeon and he employs his knowledge very skillfully to bring verisimilitude to Not For Profit without making it seeming like we are reading a text book.

The story line begins with a very moving prologue in which the lead character does plastic surgery on a pro bono basis in a clinic in West Virginia on a woman with a cleft pallet.   The operation is described in enough detail to make us feel we are there. From there we begin the first of numerous place shifts when we are taken to Afganistan to a combat drone center.  A high value target has been spotted and the presentation of the American attack is very exciting.   Then we move around Afganistan a bit (now America's longest war) then we go to the plastic surgery clinic of a plastic surgeon in  Jackson City, North Carolina. These portions of the story are told by  in the first person.   We learn a good bit about the business side of running a plastic surgery practice. (And there is more to it than just doing nose jobs and breast implants!)

The narrative also details the activities of terrorists in the vicinity of the clinic and flips back to Afgainistan.  I was really drawn into the novel by all these place changes,trying to figure out what they have to do with each other.  I thought the author did a brilliant job creating exitement and suspense through this devise.  At every turn something unexpected happened.  I do not want to give away much at all of the great plot action but the doctor, a good man with his flaws, is framed for murder, goes up against a hospital corporation where only profits matter, there is lots of sex, and we slowly discover a vast plot involving a potential terrorism attack.   Nobody hardly is who they seem at first to be.

For sure Not For Profit is great escapist take you away from the mundane reading but it has very serious points to make about the business side of American hospitals and geopolitical issues.  As a bonus we learn a lot about orchids as growing them is a passionate avocation of the central character. We sense that the doctor draws inspiration from the beauty of the orchids in doing his surgery. He also values women to a large extent based on their looks and OK there are a lot of breast references in the narrative.   

 

It is a very American book, the sex scenes are for sure vivid and if filmed in full would be for an adults only movie.  

I liked this book a lot and endorse it with the qualification that it has vivid and violent sex scenes.

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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.

Tiny House Living Through the Eyes of a Child Picture Book, Sissy Goes Tiny

MORE ABOUT THIS BLOG The New Book Review is blogged by Carolyn Howard-Johnson, author of the multi award-winning HowToDoItFrugally series of books for writers. Authors, readers, publishers, and reviewers may republish their favorite reviews of books they want to share with others. 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 and love. Please see submission guidelines on the left of this page and in a tab at the top of this blog's home page. Reviews and essays are indexed by genre, reviewer names, and review sites so it may be used a resource for most anyone in the publishing industry. 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.

Tiny House Living Through the Eyes of a Child Picture Book, Sissy Goes Tiny

Last summer, two graduates of Brainerd High School in Minnesota had a stroke of inspiration when catching up over coffee. B. A. Norrgard had been living the tiny life for six years when the idea struck that how would downsizing and going tiny might look through the eyes of a child.

B.A. Norrgard’s personal lifestyle and career within the tiny house community gave her insight about the nationwide movement. She teaches others and leads by example.

Becky Flansburg is an award-winning writer and wondered if “going tiny” might be scary for a child. Rebecca is the long-time project manager of Multicultural Children’s Book Day and Head Elf for Audrey Press. She is a member of Brainerd Writers Alliance and readers can also find her at BeckyFlansburg.com or on Instagram.

They both used their imaginations and talents as they discussed a possible story, and the idea for this innovative book began. They wanted children to know living life unconventionally is full of big possibilities.

You have probably seen some of the popular TV and Netflix shows about living in less space, downsizing, and repurposing. Norrgard says when preparing for such a lifestyle, keep only items that serve a purpose, meet a need or bring joy.

Norrgard’s Tiny House is named Sisu to help remember her mother. Sisu is a Finnish word and means having grit, determination, and perseverance. She needs plenty of that to live in her hand-built 78 square foot home. She has traveled over 14,000 miles with her house and writes about her minimalist, vegan life on her website, banorrgard.com.

Sisu sort of sounds like the name, Sissy. So, the main character of the book is Sissy. She is eight years old. During the story, she learns stuff is just stuff. Somehow illustrator Penny Weber knew just what she looked like, and was perfect for the project. Don’t you agree?

Often our lessons in elementary school (yes, I’m saying it again) for children end at recycling. Downsizing, repurposing, and tiny living are not usually mentioned. This book is unique. It was brilliant of Norrgard and Flansburg to come up with the idea and see it through to completion.

Would you be able to decided what to take with and what to leave?

·  Title: Sissy Goes Tiny by Rebecca Flansburg and B.A. Norrgard

·  Publisher: Audrey Press (CEO Valarie Budayr)

·  ISBN: 978-1-936426-22-5

·  This project was supported by Five Wings Arts Council with funds from the McKnight Foundation.

·  This diverse picture book can be purchased at AudreyPress.com  IndieBound, and Amazon

Thank you for reading, Carolyn from Wise Owl Factory

TALES2INSPIRE ~ THE JADE COLLECTION: Celebrated by Jorge Barboza

TITLE OF BOOK: TALES2INSPIRE ~ THE JADE COLLECTION

CREATOR, EDITOR, AUTHOR: LOIS W. STERN

GENRE OR CATEGORY: MEMOIR - ANTHOLOGY

REVEWED BY: JORGE BARBOZA

ISBN #: ISBN-13  :  979-8858240747

REVIEW:

Amazing & Exciting Stories

If you're searching for exhilarating and genuine narratives designed to plunge you into the core of turbulent waters, steer through hazardous paths, track down distant relatives worldwide, or traverse in a self-constructed car from South America to Detroit, this publication will undoubtedly enchant you. Granted the opportunity to examine and appraise numerous stories therein, I encourage you to undertake this

REVIEWER’S BRIEF BIO:

I am a writer born in Maracaibo, Venezuela, in 1981, with a deep appreciation for my country's culture and Latin American history, which serves as a constant inspiration for my writings. As a young child, I cherished moments spent in a hammock by my grandfather's side, where he would regale me with stories while gently rocking me to sleep. His storytelling focused on the extraordinary achievements of ordinary individuals, and this narrative style has influenced my own work, aiming to provide readers with an uplifting, well-crafted, yet humble experience.

REVIEWER’S FAVORITE LINKS: 

https://tales2inspire.com/from-machicos-to-detroit/ 

ASSURANCE TO SATISFY COPYRIGHT LAW: 

 X Yes, I have received permission from the reviewer to reprint their review in its entirety. 

REVIEWER’S BYLINE: Author, Screenwriter

MORE ABOUT THE REVIEWER:

In 2007, I was fortunate enough to win a Latin Grammy as a producer for the best music video, which opened doors for me to pursue my dreams in the USA, where I relocated in 2008. Since then, I have had the honor of receiving recognition for my screenwriting, including being named a finalist and semifinalist in esteemed festivals such as Hollyshorts and Raindance

________________________________________

MORE ABOUT LOIS W. STERN AND HER TALES2INSPIRE PROJECT:

Lois W. Stern's Tales2Inspire was a kernel of an idea that started in 2012 and has grown to proportions even she didn’t dare to envision. Her innate curiosity about potentially fascinating human interest stories was the spark that ignited this idea. But it was the confused state of traditional publishing that propelled her forward. Tales2Inspire delivers exactly what it promises as both an ‘Authors Helping Authors’ project and a contest. Winners get their stories published in print, e-book and some even in video formats, with their names, headshot photos, and mini-autobiographies included. Then she spreads the word about the winners and their stories on her blogs, social media and monthly newsletter. FREE to enter, this is a great competition for talented newbies and seasoned authors alike.  Learn more here:

Tales2Inspire website: https://www.tales2inspire.com

Twitter: www.twitter.com/tales2inspire2

Facebook page: www.facebook.com/tales2inspire

LinkedIn profile: http://tinyurl.com/odtw2wt

Get a FREE Tales2Inspire Sampler book at: www.tales2inspire.com/gifts

Tales2Inspire trailer: https://youtu.be/FuDgXkYMHvo

Blog: https://www.tales2inspire.com/blog

More About #TheNewBookReview Blog The New Book Review is blogged by Carolyn Howard-Johnson, author of the multi award-winning HowToDoItFrugally series of books for writers. Authors, readers, publishers, and reviewers may republish their favorite reviews of books they want to share with others. 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 and love. Please see submission guidelines in a tab at the top of this blog's home page or go directly to the submission guidelines at http://bit.ly/ThePlacetoRecycleBookReviews or to the guideline tab at the top of the home page of this blog. Authors and publishers who do not yet have reviews or want more may use Lois W. Stern's #AuthorsHelpingAuthors service for requesting reviews. Find her guidelines in the right column of this blog home page (a silver and gold badge and threee silver-gray circles beneath it. Carolyn Wilhelm is our IT expert, an award-winning author and veteran educator, she also contributes reviews and posts on other topics related to books. Reviews, interviews, and articles on this blog are indexed by genre, reviewers' names, and review sites so #TheNewBookReview may be used as a resource for most anyone in the publishing industry. As an example, writers will find this blog's 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. #TheFrugalbookPromoter, #CarolynHowardJohnson, #TheNewBookReview, #TheFrugalEditor, #SharingwithWriters, #reading #BookReviews #GreatBkReviews #BookMarketing HowToDoItFrugally http://bit.ly/ThePlacetoRecycleBookReviews. Pre-format the post editor for each new post. Cancel Save Post published

The Really OK, Not OK Book

I'm Not OK, You're Not OK, But That's OK With God: Finding the Humor and Healing in Life
By Shelley Hussey
ISBN 9780615199368
Publisher: Harper Ink


Reviewed By Carolyn Howard-Johnson, an Amazon Vine Voice


Prospective readers of "I'm Not OK" should know, I am not an officianado of inspirational self-help books. I have read enough of them to know that most are not written by writers--especially the ones on the bestselling lists--thus I don't seek them out. Usually one can't detect a voice or personality behind the advice. Thus, it's difficult to related to those giving the advice and certainly they aren't much fun to read.

"I'm Not OK" is different. It is full of humor. One would expect that from the subtitle. But it's also full of heart and, yes, one can detect a real person--and I'm thinking writer, too--behind the chapters and paragraphs.

Find the chapters titled "From Band-Aid Soup to Nuts." Find "The Fleeting Peace of Mind Zip Code" and "Fred Goes to the Not OK Corral." Here is a book that is full of anecdote, personal experience (read that "trusted experience") and, yep! Inspiration.
----
Reviewed by Carolyn Howard-Johnson, multi award-winning novelist, poet and author of the HowToDoItFrugally series of books for writers and retailers.




-----
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 loved. Please see submission guidelines on the left of this page. Reviews and essays are indexed by author names, reviewer names, and review sites. Writers will find the index 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.
And while you're at it, as a courtesy to the author, please retweet this post:

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:

____________________________________________________

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.

5

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.

5

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.

                                       _____________________________________________________________

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:

Spend some media marketing time with Lois at: 

Facebook: www.facebook.com/tales2inspire

Twitter: www.twitter.com/tales2inspire2

POPULAR LINKS

Tales2Inspire website

Facebook Author page

Twitter

BUY HERE

______________________________________________________

----- 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.