American book review magazine
POPULARITY
Categories
Twelve year-old Serenity Noah has never told anyone about her recurring nightmares -- the haunting images of silver butterflies whose flapping wings drive away all sound, leaving only suffocating silence in their wake. Her parents already favor her "perfect" younger brother, Peace, and she doesn't want to be seen as the "problem" child. Instead, Serenity's found a productive way to channel her fears: creating a horror movie as scary as her nightmares.When Peace suddenly becomes afraid of the dark and refuses to sleep alone, their parents take him away for "treatment" on Duppy Island. Serenity has a very bad feeling about the mysterious island and the facility's creepy leader, Dr. Whisper. And when she sees a silver butterfly from her nightmares in the forbidden forest she realizes that something is seriously, dangerously awry.But nothing could've prepared Serenity for the truth: the island is home to douens -- faceless children with backward feet who are trapped in limbo between the world of the living and the land of the dead. And unless Serenity acts soon, her brother is going to join their ranks... Shakirah Bourne is a Bajan author and filmmaker. She once shot a movie scene in a cave with bats during an earthquake, but is too scared to watch horror movies. She is a recipient of the Governor General Award for Excellence in Literary Fiction for her short fiction collection, IN TIME OF NEED. Her first children's book, JOSEPHINE AGAINST THE SEA, received starred reviews in Kirkus and Booklist, was a SLJ Best Book of 2021, A Black Caucus of the ALA Best Book of 2021 and an Ignyte Award Finalist for Best Middle Grade Novel.She was also the co-editor of YA non-fiction anthology, ALLIES: Real Talk About Growing Up, Screwing Up and Trying Again (DK/PRH, 2021), which was a World Book Day Selection in the UK. Her upcoming middle grade horror, NIGHTMARE ISLAND, a tale based on Caribbean folklore, will be published by Scholastic in June 2023.
Send us a textHow do you respond after losing everything in an instant on the worst day of your life? Author and journalist, Mark Gray joins us to talk about his newly released book titled "The Las Vegas Massacre Connections: Finding Strength Through Tragedy After America's Deadliest Mass Shooting." Mark's book is the tale of Mary Jo von Tillow, whose husband, Kurt, may have been the first person fatally shot on Oct. 1, 2017, during the Route 91 Harvest Festival in Las Vegas. After losing her husband, Mary Jo sought out survivors of other tragedies to heal. Via adventure, friendship, personal growth, and the human spirit, this trauma-bonded group endures, and the patchwork of people is all connected through a single thread: Mary Jo von Tillow. Mark was also at the festival that night and we talk in-depth with him about it. You can order the book on Amazon or Barnes and Noble. Mark is doing a book signing at Ole Red on the Las Vegas strip on October 23 from 5 to 7 p.m.Monsoon damage? Insurance company low-balling you? Call Jonathan Wallner of Galindo Law for a FREE Claim Review at 800-251-1533. VegasNearMe App If it's fun to do or see, it's on VegasNearMe. The only app you'll need to navigate Las Vegas. Support the showFollow us on Instagram: @vegas.revealedFollow us on Twitter: @vegasrevealedFollow us on TikTok: @vegas.revealedWebsite: Vegas-Revealed.com
Rachael's so excited to have Lorena on the show today! Lorena Hughes is the award-winning author of The Night We Became Strangers, The Queen of the Valley, The Spanish Daughter, and The Sisters of Alameda Street. Born and raised in Ecuador, she moved to the United States when she was eighteen to study fine arts and mass communication & journalism. Her novels have earned acclaim from outlets such as The Washington Post, Ms. Magazine, Publishers Weekly, Booklist, Woman's World, The Christian Science Monitor, BuzzFeed, PopSugar, and Bustle. The Spanish Daughter is an Amazon Editors' Pick, an Amazon Unforgettable Reads book club selection, and one of Reading Group Choices Most Popular Books of 2022. Her latest novel is The Night We Became Strangers. When she's not writing, she draws inspiration from her work as a family photographer.
New York Times bestselling author Virginia Kantra shares her journey as a storyteller, discussing the evolution of her writing career, the power of stories, and the importance of navigating relationships and intimacy in her work. She reflects on her unique writing process, the challenges faced in the creative industry, and emphasizes the joy found in writing. Kantra's insights highlight the significance of finding one's voice and process in storytelling. Chapters 00:00 The Journey of a Storyteller 03:03 Exploring the Power of Stories 06:15 Navigating Relationships and Intimacy 08:49 The Evolution of Writing and Creativity 11:44 Coping with External Challenges 14:27 Finding Your Unique Writing Process 17:21 The Importance of Joy in Writing Author's Website: www.VirginiaKantra.com Social Media Links: www.facebook.com/VirginiaKantraBooks www.instagram.com/VirginiaKantra/ Author Bio: New York Times bestselling author Virginia Kantra is a big believer in the power of stories—the ones we grow up with and the ones we tell ourselves. She has written over thirty novels about strong women, messy families, and the journey to find where you belong. Her books have received numerous awards as well as starred reviews from Publishers Weekly and Booklist and praise in People and USA Today. Married to her college sweetheart, she makes her home in North Carolina. Her favorite thing to make for dinner? Reservations. Love this episode? Rate it ⭐️ Thumbs Up
New York Times bestselling author Virginia Kantra shares her journey as a storyteller, discussing the evolution of her writing career, the power of stories, and the importance of navigating relationships and intimacy in her work. She reflects on her unique writing process, the challenges faced in the creative industry, and emphasizes the joy found in writing. Kantra's insights highlight the significance of finding one's voice and process in storytelling. Chapters 00:00 The Journey of a Storyteller 03:03 Exploring the Power of Stories 06:15 Navigating Relationships and Intimacy 08:49 The Evolution of Writing and Creativity 11:44 Coping with External Challenges 14:27 Finding Your Unique Writing Process 17:21 The Importance of Joy in Writing Author's Website: www.VirginiaKantra.com Social Media Links: www.facebook.com/VirginiaKantraBooks www.instagram.com/VirginiaKantra/ Author Bio: New York Times bestselling author Virginia Kantra is a big believer in the power of stories—the ones we grow up with and the ones we tell ourselves. She has written over thirty novels about strong women, messy families, and the journey to find where you belong. Her books have received numerous awards as well as starred reviews from Publishers Weekly and Booklist and praise in People and USA Today. Married to her college sweetheart, she makes her home in North Carolina. Her favorite thing to make for dinner? Reservations. Love this episode? Rate it ⭐️ Thumbs Up
My guest this week is Alma Katsu, the award-winning, critically acclaimed, New York Times bestselling author of nine novels. Alma has written two spy novels, "Red Widow" and "Red London," inspired by her 35-year career working in intelligence. She also writes novels that combine historical fiction with supernatural and horror elements."The Hunger" was a re-imagining of the story of the Donner Party and named one of NPR's 100 favorite horror stories. Her first book, "The Taker," was named one of the top 10 debut novels of 2011 by Booklist. And her latest novel, brand new, hot off the presses, is "Fiend," which examines our fascination with the ultra wealthy through a lens that combines dark fantasy and horror. Think Succession meets Angel Heart, if you're old enough to remember that movie.Alma's books have been translated into over a dozen languages and several are in various stages of film and television development. She's also a contributor to the Washington Post book world where she reviews thrillers.We covered:- How she came to work in US intelligence for 35 years, despite having early ambitions of being a writer- Why she writes so many different genres (spy thrillers, horror, speculative fiction)- An inside peek at just an absolutely fascinating government career- The illness that got her writing again- The challenges of building a readership- Why she thinks writing a novel that's inspired by the news is more persuasive than writing an article- How her background in intelligence helps her come up with ideas for her novels- Unlearning old habits of driving herself too hard- Recommitting to exercise so she has stamina for book toursConnect with Alma on Substack: https://substack.com/@almakatsuFor full show notes with links to everything we discuss, plus bonus photos!, visit katehanley.substack.com.Thank you for listening!And thanks to this week's sponsor, Aqua Tru. Visit aquatru.com and use code KATE to save 20% off a great countertop reverse osmosis water filter that I have been using and loving for years now. Comes with a 1-year warranty and a 30-day money back guarantee. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Join Justin as he chats with author Jonathan Janz about The Twilight Zone, Stephen King adaptations, writing advice, his new book VEIL, and more!Jonathan Janz bio: “Jonathan Janz is the author of more than a dozen novels and numerous short stories. His work has been championed by authors like Joe R. Lansdale, Jack Ketchum, and Brian Keene; he has also been lauded by Publishers Weekly, Library Journal, and School Library Journal. His ghost story The Siren and the Specter was selected as a Goodreads Choice nominee for Best Horror. Additionally, his novel Children of the Dark was chosen by Booklist as a Top Ten Horror Book of the Year. Jonathan's main interests are his wonderful wife and his three amazing children.”Intro and outro theme created by Wyrm. Support Wyrm by visiting the Serpents Sword Records bandcamp page (linked below):https://serpentsswordrecords.bandcamp.com/Monsters, Madness and Magic Official Website. Monsters, Madness and Magic on Linktree.Monsters, Madness and Magic on Instagram.Monsters, Madness and Magic on Facebook.Monsters, Madness and Magic on Twitter.
The Writer Files: Writing, Productivity, Creativity, and Neuroscience
Award-winning, acclaimed debut novelist Jinwoo Park spoke to me about breaking out of a creative rut, writing as “self-therapy,” cracking the #BookTok code, and his literary espionage thriller OXFORD SOJU CLUB Jinwoo Park is a Korean Canadian writer based in Montreal. He completed a master's degree in creative writing at the University of Oxford, and currently works as a marketer in the tech industry. His first novel, Oxford Soju Club, is a literary espionage thriller exploring themes of identity and the Korean diaspora. Park's manuscript for Oxford Soju Club won the Jim Wong-Chu Emerging Writers' Award in 2021. A Booklist starred review wrote of the book, “In stylistically rich prose, the author carefully portrays complex characters, distilling the intricate workings of the Korean psyche with riveting tension. Under the cover of a compelling espionage drama…” Jinwoo is also a literary translator and received the LTI Korea Translation Award for Aspiring Translators in 2023. [Discover The Writer Files Extra: Get 'The Writer Files' Podcast Delivered Straight to Your Inbox at writerfiles.fm] [If you're a fan of The Writer Files, please click FOLLOW to automatically see new interviews. And drop us a rating or a review wherever you listen] In this file Jinwoo Park and I discussed: How his notes from "self-therapy" became a breakout book Posting to TikTok every day to build a following Sharing a name with a character from K-Pop Demon Hunters In rewriting his debut novel five times to distill it to its essence What authenticity means to him And a lot more! Show Notes: jinwoo-park.com Oxford Soju Club by Jinwoo Park (Amazon) Jinwoo Park on Instagram Jinwoo Park on TikTok Jinwoo Park on Twitter Kelton Reid on Twitter Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
In this engaging conversation, bestselling author Kristan Higgins shares her journey from aspiring writer to a successful novelist with over 25 published books. She discusses the challenges of writing, the emotional depth of her stories, and the evolution of the publishing industry. Kristan emphasizes the importance of trusting oneself as a writer and offers valuable advice for aspiring authors, highlighting the need to focus on the craft rather than external pressures. Chapters 00:00 The Journey of a Bestselling Author 09:04 Writing Process and Challenges 17:09 Navigating Grief and Emotional Writing 21:28 Embracing the Writer's Journey 24:34 Trusting Your Creative Process 26:50 Navigating the Publishing Landscape 29:51 The Balancing Act of Writing and Marketing 35:13 Advice for Aspiring Authors Author Website: www.kristanhiggins.com Social Media Links: Instagram: www.instagram.com/kristan.higgins www.facebook.com/KristanHigginsBooks www.Facebook.com/kristanhigginssuperreaders Author Bio: Kristan Higgins is the author of more than twenty novels, all of which were New York Times and/or USA TODAY bestsellers, much to her surprise and delight. Her books have been translated into two dozen languages and have sold millions of copies worldwide. They have received dozens of awards and accolades, including starred reviews from Entertainment Weekly, People, The New York Journal of Books, Publishers Weekly, Library Journal and Booklist. The mother of two delightful adult children and a smitten grandmother, Kristan enjoys gardening, mixology, the National Parks and being overly helpful to strangers. She divides lives in Connecticut but is often on Cape Cod with her heroic firefighter husband, a rambunctious dog and their indifferent cat. Love this episode? Rate it ⭐️ Thumbs Up
In this engaging conversation, bestselling author Kristan Higgins shares her journey from aspiring writer to a successful novelist with over 25 published books. She discusses the challenges of writing, the emotional depth of her stories, and the evolution of the publishing industry. Kristan emphasizes the importance of trusting oneself as a writer and offers valuable advice for aspiring authors, highlighting the need to focus on the craft rather than external pressures. Chapters 00:00 The Journey of a Bestselling Author 09:04 Writing Process and Challenges 17:09 Navigating Grief and Emotional Writing 21:28 Embracing the Writer's Journey 24:34 Trusting Your Creative Process 26:50 Navigating the Publishing Landscape 29:51 The Balancing Act of Writing and Marketing 35:13 Advice for Aspiring Authors Author Website: www.kristanhiggins.com Social Media Links: Instagram: www.instagram.com/kristan.higgins www.facebook.com/KristanHigginsBooks www.Facebook.com/kristanhigginssuperreaders Author Bio: Kristan Higgins is the author of more than twenty novels, all of which were New York Times and/or USA TODAY bestsellers, much to her surprise and delight. Her books have been translated into two dozen languages and have sold millions of copies worldwide. They have received dozens of awards and accolades, including starred reviews from Entertainment Weekly, People, The New York Journal of Books, Publishers Weekly, Library Journal and Booklist. The mother of two delightful adult children and a smitten grandmother, Kristan enjoys gardening, mixology, the National Parks and being overly helpful to strangers. She divides lives in Connecticut but is often on Cape Cod with her heroic firefighter husband, a rambunctious dog and their indifferent cat. Love this episode? Rate it ⭐️ Thumbs Up
In this special quarterly ‘book list' episode, Bill Smead and Cole Smead discuss memorable takeaways from books they have recently read, share what they are reading now, and preview what is next on their reading list. The pair also offer fresh insights for investors, drawing on historical examples and personal experiences that shape their perspectives on today's economy.
Sometimes the most powerful Reinventions don't start with a plan, but with two people realizing their different strengths belong in the same story.In this episode, I chat with the wonderful Meredith Lavender and Kendall Shores, the dynamic co-authors of the sizzling debut novel Happy Wife. Happy Wife has captured national attention as a "Read with Jenna Book Club Pick," a SheReads Must-Read, and a Paste.com Most Anticipated Thriller. The novel has earned widespread praise, including Jenna Bush Hager's “delicious, fun summer book” endorsement, along with acclaim from Booklist and Red Carpet Crash.But before their success, Meredith spent decades shaping stories in Hollywood, show running The Flight Attendant and developing new series with Netflix, Showtime and Paramount+, while Kendall built her career in communications, beginning with grant writing at the Orlando Science Center before moving into strategy roles at Children's Healthcare of Atlanta and Mailchimp.Their journeys took a turn when Kendall turned 40 and chose to stop telling herself the story that she couldn't write a novel, just as Meredith was navigating the writers' strike and searching for a new creative outlet beyond television.Together, they represent two sides of the same coin, and show what happens when you put different strengths together. As two working moms, they blended carpools with Zooms, powered through their first draft in a single summer with a fail-fast mentality, and showed that momentum outweighs perfection. More than anything, it's about the courage to say your dream out loud, the power of creating with others, and the reminder that reinvention is possible—and exhilarating—at any stage of life.Key Takeaways Embrace a fail fast mentality - experiment quickly, learn, and keep moving forward.It's okay not to grind at the desk every day - sometimes the best creativity comes from stepping away, sitting on the couch, or just taking a breather.Saying your dream out loud invites accountability and energy - when others hear it, they often help you bring it to life.When your hobby becomes your job - build new rituals and outlets so your passion doesn't get lost in deadlines.Confidence often comes after action - momentum builds belief faster than waiting to “feel ready.”Link to their book: https://www.amazon.com/Happy-Wife-Novel-Meredith-Lavender/dp/0593974379https://www.penguinrandomhouse.com/books/771523/happy-wife-a-read-with-jenna-pick-by-meredith-lavender-and-kendall-shores/Learn More about the Authors: https://www.meredithandkendall.com/Kathi Sharpe-Ross and all things RE:INVENTION:IG: https://www.instagram.com/kathisr_chief_reinventor/FB: https://www.facebook.com/kathi.sharpeross/LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/kathisharpeross Twitter: https://twitter.com/ReinventionExchTHE RE:INVENTION EXCHANGE - for more Inspired Content, Blogs, Podcasts, RE:INVENTION Virtual Chats, or to buy a copy of my book RE:INVENT YOUR LIFE! WHAT ARE YOU WAITING FOR? by Kathi Sharpe-Ross, visit https://www.thereinventionexchange.com
Join hosts J.D. Barker, Jena Brown, Kevin Tumlinson, and Jena Brown as they discuss the week's entertainment news, including stories about book club scammers, Kindle Unlimited, and BookTok Hub. Then, stick around for a chat with Alma Katsu!Alma Katsu: NYT bestselling author Alma Katsu's books have been nominated for and won multiple prestigious awards including the Stoker, Goodreads Readers Choice, International Thriller Writers, Locus Magazine, the Western Heritage Awards, Spain's Celsius 232 festival, and appeared on numerous Best Books lists including NPR, the Observer, Barnes and Noble, Apple Books, Goodreads, and Amazon.She has written two spy novels (RED WIDOW and RED LONDON), the logical marriage of her love of storytelling with her 30+ year career in intelligence. She also writes novels that combine historical fiction with supernatural and horror elements. THE HUNGER (2018), a reimagining of the story of the Donner Party, was named one of NPR's 100 favorite horror stories, was on numerous Best Books of the Year lists, sold rights in 17 languages, and continues to be honored as a new classic in horror. Her first book, THE TAKER (2011), was named one of the top ten debut novels of 2011 by Booklist.Ms. Katsu is also a contributor to the Washington Post Book World, where she reviews thrillers. She has relocated from the Washington, DC area to the mountains of West Virginia, where she lives with her musician husband Bruce and their two dogs, Nick and Ash.
Tom Epperson (tomepperson.com), award-winning novelist and screenwriter of the cult classic film, One False Move (with Billy Bob Thornton, his childhood friend), knows how to enrapture readers. His books, from Edgar-nominated The Kind One, deemed “an impressive debut” (Publishers Weekly), to his “exquisitely written, expertly plotted” (Booklist) novel Sailor, are literary, fast-paced, metaphorical, and fresh. Epperson's latest offering, perhaps his most engaging and provocative yet, is BABY HAWK is an alluring work that's surprising not only to his readers but to himself as well. A novel in verse, BABY HAWK is a mesmerizing fable, a gorgeous adventure, a coming-of-age story, an outright shocker that runs in high gear from its hard-hitting first stanza to its remarkable conclusion. Masterfully written, this unique achievement will wow readers with explicit imagery and superb suspense. And it's so much fun to read that the deep messages it carries about feminism and ecological devastation soar above the book's heart-throbbing narrative and only fully settle into your bones when the story has ended. Tom Epperson, a native of Arkansas, headed west to Los Angeles with his boyhood friend Billy Bob Thornton to pursue a career in show business. Epperson's co-written the scripts for One False Move, A Family Thing, The Gift, A Gun, a Car, a Blonde, and Jayne Mansfield's Car. His L.A. noir The Kind One was nominated for both the Edgar Award and the Barry Award for Best First Novel. Three more books followed, Sailor, Roberto to the Dark Tower Came, and Make Believe. His most recent book is Baby Hawk, a novel in verse. He lives in Santa Fe, New Mexico, with his wife Stefani, two pampered cats, and two frisky dogs.
“People feel like they belong when they know their contribution matters.” – Jill Nowacki Welcome to episode 218 of The CUInsight Experience podcast with your hosts, Randy Smith, co-founder of CUInsight.com, and Jill Nowacki, President and CEO of Humanidei.This episode is sponsored by The Sheeter Group - a leading executive benefits firm that meets your retention and succession needs. This includes non-qualified benefit plans, short and long-term incentive plans, compensation studies, scorecard design, performance evaluation, and more. Learn more at sheetergroup.com.In this season, Jill and I will have conversations centered around leadership, credit unions, and living our best lives. We will have some of the most respected leaders from around credit unions who we are grateful to call friends join us in the discussion from time to time too.In this episode, we are talking about belonging! Belonging is more than just inclusion; it's the culture that allows people to show up fully, share ideas without hesitation, and thrive as themselves, and in this conversation, we discuss why belonging is so important for teams and organizations and the barriers that can get in the wayWe look at how leaders can spot the signs that someone on their team isn't feeling a sense of belonging, and how subtle things can inadvertently make people feel excluded. We also highlight the value of listening to understand, not just to respond, and revisiting ideas that may have been overlooked in the moment. Admitting mistakes and making efforts to make things right can strengthen a sense of belonging!We suggest that belonging is essential for unlocking the full potential of teams and driving better business results! We hope that you enjoy our conversation on belonging!Find the full show notes on cuinsight.com.Subscribe on: Apple Podcasts and SpotifyBooks mentioned on The CUInsight Experience podcast: Book List
In this episode of the Empowered Homes Podcast, Meghan welcomes Valerie Ellis, founder of Our Everyday Parables, children's author, speaker, and nonprofit consultant. Valerie shares her passion for helping families connect with God in everyday moments, especially through the power of story. From practical tips for parents during story time to insights behind her books Let's Go! Bible Adventures and the upcoming Wild Faith Devotional for Kids, Valerie offers encouragement and ideas for nurturing faith in fun, meaningful ways. She also gives us a sneak peek into some of the wild animals featured in her new devotional and how they point kids to God. Whether you're a parent, teacher, or ministry leader, you'll learn how to use books to spark spiritual conversations—even with reluctant readers. Plus, don't miss out on free activity guides, family library resources, and a chance to win Valerie's books! Resources & Links Free Guides & Book List: https://valerieellis.com/books and https://oureverydayparables.com/books Book Giveaways: For a chance to win Share the Joy or Let's Go Bible Adventures check out social media accounts.FB : https://www.facebook.com/EmpoweredHomesResources Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/empoweredhomesresources/Connect with Valerie Get Valerie's Newest BookThanks for tuning in to discover simple ways to grow faith in the everyday!About Empowered Homes Who we are? The primary purpose of Empowered Homes is to connect church and home by equipping families, leaders and ministries to grow in the areas of marriage, parenting, personal growth. discipleship strategy, family ministry, and leadership development. We value the family as the first institution designed by God for spiritual formation, relationships, and reflecting His image. We seek to ensure that every element of church life supports and equips that essential role. What we do? Empowered Homes Ministry provides practical, gospel-based resources to connect church and home. The majority of our resources are offered online through our website empoweredhomes.org. We also partner with churches and ministries to provide conferences, equipping events & ministry coaching.Empowered Homes Podcast Show us some Love! Do you appreciate The Empowered Homes Podcast? Like, subscribe, comment, share. Every bit of your engagement helps us be open-handed in sharing resources to grow strong families, leaders and ministries. Thanks for your help in Empowering Homes for the gospel! FB : https://www.facebook.com/EmpoweredHomesResources Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/empoweredhomesresources/ Youtube: ...
Hey, Mama, in today's episode, we are chatting with author Sandra Byrd! We are discussing the pressure on mamas in society and Christian circles to be perfect to be accepted. But the truth is we will never be perfect in this life—and we don't have to be. Join Sandra Byrd and Natalie as they discuss what's behind Sandra's newest devotional, More Than Enough: 90 Devotions for Loving Yourself as God Loves You. Sandra's new book explores the importance of loving yourself the way God does, while dismantling toxic perfectionism through heartfelt stories and Scripture that teach you that you don't have to keep striving. Listen along as you discover the importance of loving yourself the way God does, freeing yourself from unrealistic standards, unhealthy self-talk, and unattainable perfectionism. God's grace and unconditional love already call you more than enough. Sandra, author of over fifty books, has earned a starred review from Publishers Weekly, multiple Library Journal starred reviews and Best Book selections, the Historical Novel Society's Editor's Choice award, two Christy Award nominations, a BookPage Top Pick for Romance, and a spot on Booklist's Top Ten Inspirational Books of the Year. Her devotionals, including The One Year Home and Garden Devotions, The One Year Experiencing God's Love Devotional, and the bestselling tween devotional One Year Between You and God, are highly acclaimed, with the latter two named must-reads by Called Magazine. As an editor and writing coach, Sandra mentors writers at all stages via sandrabyrdbookcoach.com. A foodie, Sandra cooks inspired by her books' themes, collects vintage glass and serve ware, and enjoys walks with her husband and Sunday Suppers with her family.Please like, subscribe, rate, review, and share so we can help other mamas who are feeling stuck in their anger and burnout find joy in their motherhood journey!Sandra's Links:Website: sandrabyrd.comSandra's Devotional: More Than EnoughFacebook: @AuthorSandraByrdSponsor:Make Wellness - Biactive Precision Peptides Questions, thoughts, feedback? Send me a text!Questions, thoughts, feedback? Send me a text!Connect with Natalie: Natalie's Website: nataliehixson.comInstagram: instagram.com/angrymamacoachPinterest: pinterest.com/nataliehixsonYouTube: @angrymamacoachAcknowledgements: Producer and editor: Skye Hixson Music: Simon Reid www.simonreidmusic.com
Join hosts J.D. Barker, Jena Brown, Kevin Tumlinson, and JP Rindfleisch as they discuss the week's entertainment news, including stories about Anthropic, Grok chats, and C-SPAN. Then, stick around for a chat with Brian McAuley!Brian McAuley grew up in Weird NJ on a steady diet of Goosebumps books and Are You Afraid of the Dark? episodes. He received his BA in Creative Writing and Horror Theory from NYU's Gallatin School of Individualized Study before getting his MFA in Film from Columbia University.As a WGA screenwriter, Brian has written five films for the Lifetime Network in addition to writing and producing the award-winning thriller Dismissed for BoulderLight Pictures. He sold his TV series pitch Affliction to Syfy Network in a pilot development deal and penned an episode of Fuller House for Netflix.Brian's debut novel Curse of the Reaper was named one of the Best Horror Books of 2022 by Esquire. His 2023 Christmas horror novella Candy Cain Kills received praise from Booklist, Library Journal, and Kirkus Reviews, leading to the 2024 sequel Candy Cain Kills Again: The Second Slaying.His new novel Breathe In, Bleed Out will publish on September 2nd, 2025 from Poisoned Pen Press. His short fiction and non-fiction have appeared in various magazines and anthologies.Brian teaches as a Clinical Assistant Professor of Screenwriting at the Sidney Poitier New American Film School of Arizona State University.
As we head into Labor Day weekend, I'm flexing one of my superpowers: organizing information. In this episode of The Pharmacist's Voice Podcast, I share the story behind my book binder — a simple but powerful system that helps me keep track of dozens of book recommendations and the 20–30 books I read each year. You'll hear how I went from barely finding time to read as a busy mom to becoming an audiobook enthusiast with a binder full of possibilities. I'll also share 26 books currently on my “to be read” list (plus the Spy School series I'm enjoying with my son Kraig). Maybe you'll discover your next great read from this podcast episode! Even if books aren't your thing, you'll walk away with this takeaway: what makes you weird might actually be your superpower. For me, it's organizing information. For you, it could be something else entirely — and when you embrace it, life gets easier, less stressful, and more fun. You just might help other people too!
Disclosure: We are part of the Amazon Affiliate/LTK Creator programs. We will receive a small commission at no cost if you purchase a book. This post may contain links to purchase books.Get your TBR ready for the messy, fascinating world of multilevel marketing. In this episode, Laura shares her comfort-watch obsession with anti‑MLM commentary and rounds up fiction and nonfiction reads that unpack pyramid schemes, wellness grifts, and the hustle‑culture mindset.You'll learn what makes MLMs so seductive (and so costly), how “affiliate” pivots still mirror recruitment models, and the book-and-audio picks that read like page‑turners. Expect romance, cozy mysteries, and investigative nonfiction—plus audiobook recs and a few library/KU tips.
“Sometimes there are monumental changes, but other times it's what can you do today to get one step closer?" - Randy Smith Welcome to episode 216 of The CUInsight Experience podcast with your hosts, Randy Smith, co-founder of CUInsight.com, and Jill Nowacki, President and CEO of Humanidei.This episode is sponsored by The Sheeter Group - a leading executive benefits firm that meets your retention and succession needs. This includes non-qualified benefit plans, short and long-term incentive plans, compensation studies, scorecard design, performance evaluation, and more. Learn more at sheetergroup.com.In this season, Jill and I will have conversations centered around leadership, credit unions, and living our best lives. We will have some of the most respected leaders from around credit unions who we are grateful to call friends join us in the discussion from time to time too.In this episode, Jill and I talk about all things pivoting - when you realize the path that you're on isn't the one you need to stay on. It can be a strategic shift, a leadership adjustment, or even a whole new direction. The need to pivot can come from burnout, boredom, or external factors such as failing to meet success metrics. We discuss how internal signs such as lack of creativity or excitement for the work can also indicate that it's time for a change.Pivoting can be really difficult, as it requires overcoming our natural human desire for stability, and Jill and I discuss how leaders have the added challenge of bringing their teams along through the transition. We remind you that being transparent about the reasons behind the pivot, the expected outcomes and potential challenges, and inviting input from your team can all help ease the process for everyone. Celebrating milestones and small wins along the way is also important to maintain morale.We also highlight how pivots don't have to be monumental shifts; sometimes, it's the "two degree" changes that open up new opportunities. The key, though, is being attuned to all of the signals that are trying to tell you that it's time to make a move, so whether in your career, your organization, or your personal life, the ability to recognize when it's time to pivot can be one of the healthiest and most impactful decisions that you make. The path forward may not be certain, but the alternative of staying stuck is often so much worse!We hope that this episode offers you some great insight! As always, feel free to reach out to us and share your thoughts! We would love to hear from you!Find the full show notes on cuinsight.com.Subscribe on: Apple Podcasts and SpotifyBooks mentioned on The CUInsight Experience podcast: Book List
Episode 9 - In this exciting episode of Let's Talk: Passion & Purpose, host Nicole Thomas sits down with the multi- talented J.R. ("Jamie") Potter. An award-winning author, illustrator, and musician, Jamie delves into the heart of creativity and the relentless pursuit of passion. From his celebrated supernatural mystery series Thomas Creeper—praised by Booklist as "marvelously macabre!"—to his impactful work in educational publishing, Jamie inspires with his journey of storytelling and artistic mastery.
Mean Book Club is BACK with their biggest season yet! Join us for a series of bad romances, self-help stinkers, and mandane mysteries to celebrate our 20TH SEASON. New episodes start on August 15th and follow us on Patreon for even more of that sweet, sweet season 20 content! Mean Book Club is four ladies (UCB, BuzzFeed, College Humor, Impractical Jokers) who read, discuss and whine about NYT bestselling books that have questionable literary merit. It's fun. It's cathartic. It's perfect for your commute. New podcast (almost) every Tuesday! Here's the Season 16 reading list:The Corrections by Jonathan FranzenPrep by Curtis SittenfeldWe Were Liars by E. LockhartThe Plot Against America by Philip RothWho Moved My Cheese by Spencer JonsonBeautiful Ugly byAlice FeeneyyWhere is Joe Merchant by Jimmy BuffetSkipping Christmas by John GrishhamSend any future book suggestions to meanbookclub@gmail.com! Follow us on the socials @meanbookclub! Rate, like, subscribe, and check out our Patreon page at patreon.com/meanbookclub to become a true patron of the mean arts. CREDITS: Hosted by Sarah Burton, Clara Morris, Johnna Scrabis, & Sabrina B. Jordan. This episode was produced and edited by Sarah Burton and Blake Opper. Special thanks to FSM Team for our theme song, "Parkour Introvert." You can get it here: https://www.free-stock-music.comBecome a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/mean-book-club--3199521/support.
Get 7 FREE Days of Training to our Athlete Strength Training App - Peak Strength
Natalie is joined by Professors Islam Issa and Edith Hall to tell the story of the great library of Alexandria. It was included in Alexander the Great's original design for his city, located in the Nile Delta. Alexandria was to be a city of knowledge. The founders of the library were ambitious: they wanted nothing less than to collect all the books in the world. They were willing to pay huge sums, but they were also ruthless and unscrupulous. The Ptolemies would write to fellow rulers and wealthy friends and ask to borrow their priceless texts. Then the library would copy the scrolls, and return the copies. Or alternatively they'd just steal them. Handily, papyrus, the principal reading material of the era, grew in great abundance around Alexandria. So there was plenty of it for those copies. Less fortunately, it's extremely flammable. So in 48 BCE, when Julius Caesar's besieged army set fire to ships in the harbour in order to block the invading fleet, the fire spread and destroyed a significant part of the library.'Rockstar mythologist' Natalie Haynes is the best-selling author of 'Divine Might', 'Stone Blind', and 'A Thousand Ships' as well as a reformed comedian who is a little bit obsessive about Ancient Greek and Rome.Islam Issa is Professor of Literature and History at Birmingham City University. His book 'Alexandria, the City that Changed the World' is the Winner of the Runciman Award and The Times, Sunday Times, TLS, Booklist, Epoch Times and Waterstones Book of the Year.Edith Hall is Professor of Classics at Durham University, specialising in ancient Greek literature. She has written over thirty books and is a Fellow of the British Academy.Producer...Mary Ward-Lowery
In this episode of Booklist's Shelf Care: The Podcast, we're coming to you live from ALA's Annual Conference in Philadelphia. Audio Editor Heather Booth chats with three authors who were excited to share insight into their forthcoming books and what libraries mean to them: Victor Piñeiro (The Island of Forgotten Gods, August 2025, Sourcebooks Young Readers), E. Lockhart (We Fell Apart, November 2025, Delacorte), and Kevin Henkes (Is It Spring?, February 2026, Greenwillow). Here's what we talked about: Read n Rave list The Island of Forgotten Gods, by Victor Piñeiro Time Villains, by Victor Piñeiro The Land of Oz, by L. Frank Baum We Fell Apart, by E. Lockhart We Were Liars, by E. Lockhart Song of Achilles, by Madeline Miller They Both Die at the End, by Adam Silvera Family of Liars, by E. Lockhart The Disreputable History of Frankie Landau Banks, by E. Lockhart Is It Spring?, written and illustrated by Kevin Henkes Sun Flower Lion, written and illustrated by Kevin Henkes, Finding Things, by Kevin Henkes, illustrated by Laura Dronzek Waiting, written and illustrated by Kevin Henkes Chrysanthemum, written and illustrated by Kevin Henkes Lilly's Purple Plastic Purse, written and illustrated by Kevin Henkes Garth Williams American Picture Books from Noah's Ark to the Beast Within, by Barbara Bader
Episode 96 is mystery and thriller author Mia P. Manansala.Mia P. Manansala (she/her) is a writer from Chicago who loves books, baking, and bad-ass women. Her debut, ARSENIC AND ADOBO, garnered starred reviews from Library Journal, Publishers Weekly, Booklist, and Shelf Awareness, hit the ABA Indie Bestseller List, and has won multiple awards. A lover of all things geeky, Mia spends her days procrasti-baking, playing RPGs and otome games, reading cozy mysteries and diverse romance, and gazing lovingly at her dog Gumiho.In this episode we discussed Death in the Cards, her first young adult book and her move into writing for teens. With that, we talked about the difference in how she writes her teen versus her adult protagonist. We also touched on her use of tarot in the novel, and how one class and one teacher guided her to writing mystery.Links discussed:Their Just Desserts by Tracy Badua and Alechia DowDead & Breakfast by Kat Hillis and Rosiee ThorPrincess and the PI by Nikki Payne***Upcoming: THE FOREVER WEDDING DATENote: some links are affiliate linksContact Tif at tif@tifmarcelo.comPlease check out her website for podcast submissions
Natalie is joined by Professors Islam Issa and Edith Hall to tell the story of the ancient city of Alexandria. Located on the Nile Delta, this spectacular and highly innovative city was founded by Alexander the Great around two and half thousand years ago. And like all great ideas, it came to him in a dream.'Rockstar mythologist' Natalie Haynes is the best-selling author of 'Divine Might', 'Stone Blind', and 'A Thousand Ships' as well as a reformed comedian who is a little bit obsessive about Ancient Greek and Rome. Islam Issa is Professor of Literature and History at Birmingham City University. His book 'Alexandria, the City that Changed the World' is the Winner of the Runciman Award and The Times, Sunday Times, TLS, Booklist, Epoch Times and Waterstones Book of the Year.Edith Hall is Professor of Classics at Durham University, specialising in ancient Greek literature. She has written over thirty books and is a Fellow of the British Academy.Producer...Mary Ward-Lowery
Get 7 FREE Days of Training to our Strength Training App - Peak Strength
Find the next read for your beach bag (or next vacation road trip) from these titles our WGN Radio Book Club have shared. There are fiction and non-fiction titles, plus audiobooks in our curated July list. John Williams (weekdays 10am-2pm, including The Wintrust Business Lunch)Runs in the Family: An Incredible True Story of Football, Fatherhood, and […]
Find the next read for your beach bag (or next vacation road trip) from these titles our WGN Radio Book Club have shared. There are fiction and non-fiction titles, plus audiobooks in our curated July list. John Williams (weekdays 10am-2pm, including The Wintrust Business Lunch)Runs in the Family: An Incredible True Story of Football, Fatherhood, and […]
Find the next read for your beach bag (or next vacation road trip) from these titles our WGN Radio Book Club have shared. There are fiction and non-fiction titles, plus audiobooks in our curated July list. John Williams (weekdays 10am-2pm, including The Wintrust Business Lunch)Runs in the Family: An Incredible True Story of Football, Fatherhood, and […]
In this special quarterly ‘book list' episode of A Book with Legs, Smead Capital Management's analyst team, including Seamus Sullivan, Nick Garcia, and Will Keenan, joins Cole Smead to discuss memorable takeaways from books they have recently read, share what they are reading now, and preview what's next. They also offer fresh insights for investors on opportunity in homebuilders, oil prices with Israel and Iran's 12-day war, and more.
This vibrant and energetic edition brings together a diverse range of sounds- from modular and chill-out to Berlin School melodies and innovative collaborations. Karl Schoenberg makes his debut on Sequences with his album “Spectre,” which beautifully moves beyond traditional forms to create sonic textures that flow like living paintings—an inspiring exploration of life and death from Telepath. Ümit Han teams up with legendary Krautrock and Berlin School pioneer Harald Grosskopf on “Magnetfeld,” blending hypnotic techno beats with ambient influences for a truly mesmerising experience. Meanwhile, Martin Stehl, known as Glint, skillfully mixes electronic elements with 80s vibes, contemporary beats, chillout melodies, and ambient sounds to craft a deeply engaging listening experience. Download Bios: https://we.tl/t-Inu5LuJzQ9 Playlist no 272 02.08 Divine Matrix ‘Realm Of Gods' (album Rise Of The Sand Gods) https://admusicshop.bandcamp.com 04.12 Divine Matrix ‘Eye Of Horus' 09.00 Glynn Heppenstall ‘Flowers & files' (album We Live Within A Dream,Tributes To David Lynch) https://auralfilms1.bandcamp.com/album/we-live-within-a-dream-tributes-to-david-lynch 16.11 Harald Grosskopf & Ümit Han ‘Zeitgeber' (Magnetfeld) https://uemithan.bandcamp.com/album/magnetfeld 23.07 Karl Schoenberg 'Sound Sculpture 7' (album Spectre) https://cyclicaldreams.bandcamp.com/album/spectre-cyd-0133 26.25 Karl Schoenberg 'Sound Sculpture 8' 29.33 Lisa Bella Donna 'Final Frontier' (album Counterpoints-2) https://lisabelladonna.bandcamp.com/album/counterpoints-2 32.20 Lisa Bella Donna ‘Myriads Of Ivy' 37.09 Ian Boddy ‘Hildegard' (album Modulations VI) https://dinrecords.bandcamp.com/album/modulations-iv-dinddl34 49.37 Ian Boddy ‘Stars End' 59.00 Fusion Of Elements ‘Theory Of Concept' (album 3MIT-TIME) https://fusionofelements.bandcamp.com/album/bigger-than-us-24-bit 01.07.07 Ian Boddy & Erik Wollo ‘Abeona' (album Transmissions) https://dinrecords.bandcamp.com/album/transmissions-din92 01.17.54 Ole Højer Hansen ‘Carmin Red' (album Turner Blue) https://olehojerhansen.bandcamp.com/album/turner-blue 01.24.16 Glint ‘The Beginning' (album The Beginning) http://www.sine-music.com 01.28.18 Glint ‘Last Train Left' 01.31,20 t e l e p a t h テレパシー能力者 ‘The wings of a white phoenix embrace me as I jump from the edge of fate' (album 夜明けが訪れる: https://geometriclullaby.bandcamp.com/album/--56 01.43.00 Seifert & SteinbÅchel ‘Motion Artefact' (album Softlock ) www.mellowjet.de 01.50.58 Daniel Durwael ‘Dark Future' ( single) *** https://synthasy.bandcamp.com/album/dark-future 02.00.22 Perge ‘Heartbeat From a Crystalline Star' (album A Fleeting Abstraction Of An Evocation In Cryosleep) *** https://perge.bandcamp.com 02.09.41 Thaneco & Romerium ‘Genesis From The Galactic Forge' (album Interstellar Tunnel) https://thaneco.bandcamp.com/album/interstellar-tunnel 02.16.03 Thaneco & Romerium ‘Echoes Of Kinich Ahau' 02.24.11 Anantakara ‘Blossoming Tree Of Life' (album Glimpse Of Change) https://cyclicaldreams.bandcamp.com/album/glimpse-of-changes-cyd-0132 02.31.24 Anantakara ‘The Sacred Pulse Of Gaia Awakening' 02.37.43 Ivan Black ‘The Glass Bead Game' (album Book List ) https://ivanblack.bandcamp.com/album/book-list 02.48.02 m00n ‘Revolution In Space And Time' (album Part2: Dominiation) *** https://m00m.bandcamp.com/album/part-2-domination 02.53.03 fluXus ‘Red Lips and Green Lawns' (album We Live Within A Dream, Tributes To David Lynch) https://auralfilms1.bandcamp.com/album/we-live-within-a-dream-tributes-to-david-lynch Edit***
The Writer Files: Writing, Productivity, Creativity, and Neuroscience
Experts Nicole Meier and Gretchen Schaffer, the duo behind Book Works, spoke to me about how to build a meaningful author platform, and how they empower authors through book coaching and branding expertise. Nicole Meier is a certified book coach and the author of four novels, as well as the host of The Whole Writer podcast for emerging writers. Her books have been recognized by Booklist, Refinery29, BookBub, and Popsugar. Gretchen Schaffer, is a PR strategist with experience at Adobe, Microsoft, Meta, and Sony, who now helps authors build strong platforms and pitch strategies. Together, they guide fiction writers in establishing their brand, connecting with readers, and confidently pitching their work in the literary world. [Discover The Writer Files Extra: Get 'The Writer Files' Podcast Delivered Straight to Your Inbox at writerfiles.fm] [If you're a fan of The Writer Files, please click FOLLOW to automatically see new interviews. And drop us a rating or a review wherever you listen] In this file Nicole Meier, Gretchen Schaffer, and I discussed: Where the duo step in at the “deer in the headlights moment” for authors The overwhelm from the contradictory and ever-changing path to publishing Building a community one reader at a time The intersection of creative practice and career sustainability Why you need to go tell one person that you're a writer this week And a lot more! Show Notes: bookworks.co Book Works Substack Newsletter The Whole Writer podcast Book Works on Instagram Kelton Reid on Twitter Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Two Zero Q: 20 Questions With Interesting People from the LGBT community and friends
You are listening to Two Zero Q: 20 Questions With Interesting People from the LGBT community and friends. This time, my guest is Kyle Casey Chu (aka Panda Dulce) - a writer, filmmaker, and one of the founding queens of Drag Story Hour. In June 2022, far-right extremists stormed her Drag Story Hour in an attempt to silence her. She is now using her global platform to tell even gayer stories. She lives in San Francisco. The Queen Bees of Tybee County is her first novel written for middle grade readers and is receiving rave reviews. "A kind contemplation on generational trauma, race, and queer identity in the South, this book sparkles with queer joy." — Booklist (starred review)#Pride#Gay#TVHTIMKIRK#LGBTQ#DragQueenStoryHour#QueenBeesofTybeeCounty#KylChu#PandaDulce Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
Lindy Ryan discusses writing horror as a novelist and anthologist. She is an award-winning author, anthologist, and short-film director whose books and anthologies have received starred reviews from Publishers Weekly, Booklist and Library Journal. Several of her projects have been adapted for screen. Ryan is the current author-in-residence at Rue Morgue. Declared a “champion for women's voices in horror” by Shelf Awareness, Ryan was named a Publishers Weekly Star Watch Honoree in 2020, and in 2022, was named one of horror's most masterful anthology curators. Born and raised in Southeast Texas, Ryan currently resides on the East Coast. She is a professor at Rutgers University.Her latest novel is Another Fine Mess. Learn more at LindyRyanWrites.com Thanks to NetGalley for an advance copy. Intro reel, Writing Table Podcast 2024 Outro RecordingFollow the Writing Table:On Twitter/X: @writingtablepcEverywhere else: @writingtablepodcastEmail questions or tell us who you'd like us to invite to the Writing Table: writingtablepodcast@gmail.com.
Bestselling author, Susan Wiggs, discusses her writing practices and shares the backstory surrounding her latest flex into historical fiction, a passion project titled, Wayward Girls. Susan Wiggs's life is all about family, friends…and fiction. She lives at the water's edge on an island in Puget Sound, and in good weather, she commutes to her writers' group in a 21-foot motorboat. She's been featured in the national media, including NPR, PRI, and USA Today, has given programs for the US Embassies in Buenos Aires and Montevideo, and is a popular speaker locally, nationally, internationally, and on the high seas. From the very start, her writings have illuminated the everyday dramas of ordinary people facing extraordinary circumstances. Her books celebrate the power of love, the timeless bonds of family and the fascinating nuances of human nature. Today, she is an international best-selling, award-winning author, with millions of copies of her books in print in numerous countries and languages. According to Publishers Weekly, Wiggs writes with “refreshingly honest emotion,” and the Salem Statesman Journal adds that she is “one of our best observers of stories of the heart [who] knows how to capture emotion on virtually every page of every book.” Booklist characterizes her books as “real and true and unforgettable.” Susan is a former teacher, a Harvard graduate, an avid hiker, an amateur photographer, a good skier and terrible golfer, yet her favorite form of exercise is curling up with a good book. She lives on an island in Puget Sound, where she divides her time between sleeping and waking. Her latest novel is Wayward Girls. Learn more at SusanWiggs.com Special thanks to Net Galley for an advance reader copy. Intro reel, Writing Table Podcast 2024 Outro RecordingFollow the Writing Table:On Twitter/X: @writingtablepcEverywhere else: @writingtablepodcastEmail questions or tell us who you'd like us to invite to the Writing Table: writingtablepodcast@gmail.com.
Christian Historical Fiction Talk is listener supported. When you buy things through this site, we may earn an affiliate commission.Become a patron and enjoy special perks and bonus content.Jen Turano joins us this week for a lively chat about her most recent release, A Lesson in Propriety. Want to know what favorite cartoon of hers helped to inspire the book or what colors she absolutely hates? Then you're going to want to tune in and hear what she has to say about all that. She also shares with us a little bit about the big move in her life since we last had her on the show. Patrons hear about why she loves to create strong quirky characters.A Lesson in Propriety by Jen TuranoLESSON ONE: Stand in the way of the Windy City's criminal world and expect a most improper proposal from an eligible gentleman in return. With her father dead, her fortune stolen, and her fiancé casting her aside, Miss Drusilla Merriweather's privileged life has been upended. She is left with only one option: to provide for her family by opening a finishing school in the allegedly haunted castle she's inherited from her eccentric aunt. However, her plan is immediately threatened by unscrupulous developers keen on claiming the coveted estate for themselves by any means necessary. Mr. Rhenick Wittenbecker, a dashing architect with a tendency to charm his way out of trouble, is convinced he can protect Drusilla but is challenged by her fierce independence. Yet when strange occurrences--walking suits of armor and unexpected ghostly visitors--arise within the castle's grounds, Drusilla must decide whether to risk her family's safety and her school on the gallant architect who seems to have found his way into her heart. Laugh-out-loud witty banter, swoon-worthy romance, and delightful mischief in the Gilded Age string together this entrancing series starter. Fans of clean romance, Christian fiction, and strong female characters will enjoy this read.Get your copy of A Lesson in Propriety by Jen Turano.Named One of the Funniest Voices in Inspirational Romance by Booklist, Jen Turano is a USA Today Best-Selling Author, known for penning quirky historical romances set in the Gilded Age. Her books have earned Publisher Weekly and Booklist starred reviews, top picks from Romantic Times, and praise from Library Journal. She's been a finalist twice for the RT Reviewers' Choice Awards and had two of her books listed in the top 100 romances of the past decade from Booklist. When she's not writing, she spends her time outside of Denver, CO. Readers may find her at www.jenturano.com – www.facebook.com/jenturanoauthor, www.instagram.com/jenturanoauthorJen is represented by Sarah Younger, senior literary agent, Nancy Yost Literary Agency, New York.
Prepare to be swept away by the untold saga of women's soccer! Girls With Goals isn't just a book; it's a thrilling journey through time, tracing the electrifying rise of the beautiful game from its surprising 19th-century British roots to the global phenomenon it is today. Imagine a world where women dared to dream of kicking a ball, facing down bans, battling societal challenges, and overcoming seemingly insurmountable odds. Girls With Goals brings these gripping tales to life, chronicling the astonishing victories that have propelled women's football onto the world stage. You'll witness the sheer determination that transformed a grassroots passion into a sport celebrated by millions! Whether you're lacing up your first pair of cleats or you're a seasoned fan who bleeds soccer, this book will revolutionize your understanding of women's football. Through captivating stories and unforgettable anecdotes, you'll meet the trailblazing characters—both past and present—who shaped the sport, including the voices of marginalized athletes whose contributions have often been overlooked. More than just a history, Girls With Goals is a passionate tribute to the female athletes who ignited a spark in girls worldwide, inspiring them to chase their dreams on the pitch. It's a powerful homage to the women who fought tirelessly to play the sport they loved, forging a path not just for women's soccer, but for every female athlete in every sport today. About the Visionary Behind the Story: Clelia Castro-Malaspina, the brilliant mind behind Girls With Goals, is a celebrated author of books for young readers. Her previous work, Your Freedom, Your Power: A Kid's Guide to the First Amendment, was lauded by Kirkus as "current, insightful and savvy," and earned a starred review from Booklist, which declared it "empowers kids." With a background spanning law and literary agency, Clelia now leads her own children's book editorial business, Mossy Pines Creative. She lives with her husband and two daughters on Mercer Island, Washington, undoubtedly continuing to champion powerful stories that inspire. Get The Book: https://a.co/d/6pAkMlo Get to Know Ash: Imagine someone who just radiates good vibes and genuinely wants to see you shine – that's Ash Brown! This incredibly talented American wears many hats: she's a fantastic producer, a super engaging blogger, a captivating speaker, a natural media personality, and a fantastic host for events. Her energy is totally infectious, and you can tell she's truly passionate about helping everyone reach their full potential. What's Ash Up To? AshSaidit.com: Think of this as your VIP pass into Ash's world! Her blog is buzzing with exclusive invites to events, honest reviews of cool products, and all sorts of fun and informative stuff. It's the perfect place to stay in the loop and get a dose of Ash's personality. The Ash Said It Show: Get ready to feel inspired! Ash's podcast is a powerhouse of motivation, with over 2,000 episodes already out there and a whopping half a million listens worldwide! She has amazing conversations with inspiring people and dives into topics that really matter. Why We Love Ash: Ash isn't just talking the talk; she's walking the walk! What makes her truly special is how real she is. She connects with her audience on a genuine level, offering advice and encouragement that feels like a chat with a good friend. She doesn't shy away from the tough stuff but instead gives you the tools to tackle it head-on. Here's what makes Ash stand out: Sunshine Personified: Ash is a total optimist! Her positive energy is contagious, and you can't help but feel more empowered and ready for anything after connecting with her. Keeping It Real: Ash doesn't try to sugarcoat life. She gets that things can be tough and offers relatable advice that speaks to people from all walks of life. Turning Inspiration into Action: This isn't just about feeling good for a moment. Ash gives you practical tips and strategies to actually make things happen and turn your dreams into reality. So, if you're looking for a daily dose of inspiration, real-world advice, and someone who keeps it totally honest, Ash Brown is your go-to person! With her amazing positivity and genuine dedication to helping others, she's sure to become your favorite source for making the most out of life. ✨ ► Goli Gummy Discounts Link: https://go.goli.com/1loveash5 ► Luxury Women Handbag Discounts: https://www.theofficialathena.... ► Review Us: https://itunes.apple.com/us/po... ► Subscribe: http://www.youtube.com/c/AshSa... ► Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/1lov... ► Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/ashsa... ► Blog: http://www.ashsaidit.com/blog #atlanta #ashsaidit #theashsaiditshow #ashblogsit #ashsaidit®Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/the-ash-said-it-show--1213325/support.
On this episode of the Self-Publishing News Podcast, Dan Holloway covers an incident in which the Chicago Sun-Times recommended AI-invented books by real authors, and a troubling test in which Anthropic's AI, Claude 4.0, threatened a user with blackmail. He also reports that Spotify has seen a rise in iOS subscriptions following the Apple ruling on in-app purchases, and shares the latest from ongoing AI copyright debates in the UK and EU, where authors and creators continue pushing back against efforts to weaken protections. Sponsors Self-Publishing News is proudly sponsored by Bookvault. Sell high-quality, print-on-demand books directly to readers worldwide and earn maximum royalties selling directly. Automate fulfillment and create stunning special editions with BookvaultBespoke. Visit Bookvault.app today for an instant quote. Self-Publishing News is also sponsored by book cover design company Miblart. They offer unlimited revisions, take no deposit to start work and you pay only when you love the final result. Get a book cover that will become your number-one marketing tool. Find more author advice, tips, and tools at our Self-publishing Author Advice Center, with a huge archive of nearly 2,000 blog posts and a handy search box to find key info on the topic you need. And, if you haven't already, we invite you to join our organization and become a self-publishing ally. About the Host Dan Holloway is a novelist, poet, and spoken word artist. He is the MC of the performance arts show The New Libertines, He competed at the National Poetry Slam final at the Royal Albert Hall. His latest collection, The Transparency of Sutures, is available on Kindle.
Send us a textDavid Downie is a native San Franciscan who moved to Paris in the mid-1980s. He divides his time between France and Italy. A longtime journalist, his travel, food and arts features have appeared in over 50 print magazines and newspapers worldwide and on dozens of websites.David is the award-winning author of six novels and over a dozen acclaimed nonfiction books translated into a variety of foreign languages, including French, Italian, Chinese and Korean. His essays have been published in over a dozen anthologies. Downie graduated from UC Berkeley and Brown University. He is married to photographer Alison Harris. His latest book is Shadows of Rome: A Memoir.Praise for other books by David Downie"Zesty and entertaining."—Kirkus"Delightful and thoroughly researched."—Publishers Weekly"Beautifully written and refreshingly original."—The SF Chronicle"Delightful and insightful."—The Seattle Post-Intelligencer and Chicago Tribune"Unequaled poignancy and passion."—National Geographic Traveler“Expertly captures the powerlessness and courage of those in peril."—Booklist"Compelling... a rapturous, history-rich love poem."—The Toronto Star"Fabulous company!"—NPRShadows of Romehttps://www.amazon.com/Shadows-Rome-Memoir-Italy-California/dp/B0DWK5FF27/ref=tmm_pap_swatch_0 Support the show
Episode 42 Show Notes In this episode of Booklist's Shelf Care: The Podcast, host Susan Maguire talks to librarian and horror expert Becky Spratford about the forthcoming collection of essays she edited, Why I Love Horror, what Mary Shelley might think about the current trend of monster romance, and, of course, why she loves horror. Then Booklist's Audio Editor Heather Booth presents an epic rant against AI-narrated audiobooks, and Susan and Booklist Senior Editor, Adult Books Annie Bostrom chat about two water-related books they're loving. Here's what we talked about: Becky's early “Why I Love Horror,” featuring Booklist folks The Readers' Advisory Guide to Horror, by Becky Siegel Spratford Danse Macabre, by Stephen King Frankenstein, by Mary Shelley “The Lottery,” by Shirley Jackson Pride and Prejudice, by Jane Austen Pride and Prejudice and Zombies, by Seth Grahame-Smith The Hunger, by Alma Katsu Buffalo Hunter Hunter, by Stephen Graham Jones James, by Percival Everett Horror for Weenies, by Emily Hughes Circulating Ideas podcast, hosted by Steve Thomas LibraryReads Hall of Fame Where the Sidewalk Ends, by Shel Silverstein The Grip of It, by Jac Jemc Horror Makes Us Happy podcast with Becky Spratford The Bewitching, by Silvia Moreno-Garcia Mexican Gothic, by Silvia Moreno-Garcia Cynthia Pelayo 101 Horror Books to Read Before You're Murdered, Sadie Hartmnn Paperbacks from Hell, by Grady Hendrix A Plate of Hope: The Inspiring Story of Chef José Andrés and World Central Kitchen, by Erin Frankel and Paola Escobar. Read by Luis Carlos de la Lombana. (Odyssey Award Winner, 2025) How the Boogeyman Became a Poet, by Tony Keith Jr. Read by the author. (Odyssey Award Winner, 2025) The Secret History of the Rape Kit: A True Crime Story, by Pagan Kennedy. Read by Claire Danes The Mysterious Benedict Society, by Trenton Lee Stewart. Read by Del Roy Listening Still, by Anne Griffin. Read by Nicola Coughlan A Marriage at Sea: A True Story of Love, Obsession, and Shipwreck, by Sophie Elmhirst Into Thin Air: A Personal Account of the Mt. Everest Disaster, by Jon Krakauer The Love Fix, by Jill Shalvis The Listeners, by Maggie Stiefvater
The AP's Jennifer King reports on a cautionary tale, of a writer's A-I shortcut that backfired.
Josh Mendoza is a screenwriter, director, producer, and author. Mendoza is the founder of Strike the Sun Entertainment, and his movie work has been recognized by film festivals and competitions alike. He is best known for his feature film, WHAT STILL REMAINS, which he wrote, directed, and produced. Decider called the movie a “great follow-up to Bird Box” and described it as a “hidden gem” on Netflix. The Los Angeles Times said, “Writer-director Josh Mendoza finds a fresh angle on the post-apocalyptic thriller,” creating a “fascinating ‘what-if' imagining society's possible future.”Mendoza's debut novel, SHADOW OF THE ETERNAL WATCHER, released on January 28, 2025. The novel is a noir detective mystery that spirals into a science fiction adventure. The novel has already received positive reviews from Library Journal, Booklist, and Kirkus Reviews. It was recently featured as one of the best upcoming sci-fi books for 2025 in New Scientist.Make sure to check out this author on his website—https://www.joshmendoza.com/You can listen to the podcast on Apple Podcast, Spotify, Google Podcast, or visit my website www.drkatherinehayes.com
Where should adults start with classical education? In this episode of Classical Et Cetera, we share our top book recommendations for anyone looking to begin their journey into the world of classical learning. Whether you're new to the classics or returning with fresh eyes, these books will help you understand what classical education is, why it matters, and how to dive in. From timeless works to essential guides, we explore where to start, what to read, and how to keep going. Join the conversation in this podcast episode—and check out our classic book lists below! The Great Books, Books About Classical Education, and Books For Classical Educators: https://www.memoriapress.com/wp-content/uploads/The-Recovery-of-Real-Education.pdf?utm_source=PodBean&utm_medium=CETC&utm_campaign=169 Memoria Press Literature Curriculum: https://www.memoriapress.com/wp-content/uploads/HLS-Teacher-Reading-Survey.pdf?utm_source=PodBean&utm_medium=CETC&utm_campaign=169 Martin's Essential Boys Books: https://www.memoriapress.com/martins-essential-boys-books-list/?utm_source=PodBean&utm_medium=CETC&utm_campaign=169 Martin's Essential Girls Books: https://www.memoriapress.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/04/Essential-Girls-Books-List_ProofedByEllen.pdf?utm_source=PodBean&utm_medium=CETC&utm_campaign=169 *What We're Reading* from This Episode: _The Collected Short Stories of Louis L'Amour_—Louis L'Amour (Paul) _The Name of the Rose_—Umberto Eco (Tanya) _On Close Reading_—John Guillory (Martin)
“You can actually be whole only if you have both sides of yourself included in your identity.” Rebecca BalcárcelIn this episode of What's Your Why?, host Emy Digrappa sits down with Guatemalan Anglo-American author and poet Rebecca Balcárcel, acclaimed for The Other Half of Happy and Shine On, Luz Véliz!. Rebecca shares her inspiring journey from avid young reader to award-winning middle grade author, weaving in stories of family, identity, and the complexities of growing up bicultural. From raising identical twins to discovering a half-sister in Guatemala, Rebecca opens up about the deep personal roots behind her fiction and the transformative power of writing for young readers. This episode is a heartfelt look at how authors find wholeness through storytelling and how cultural heritage shapes the stories we tell.
Creating isn't just about what you make…it's about who you become. We're back with the brilliant Nana Brew-Hammond for her second visit to Reframe to Create, and this time, it's a full-circle moment. In Episode 21, Nana shared “How to Stay Committed to an Imperfect Creating Journey.” And in this episode, we see how that commitment has blossomed. Nana walks us through the very different experiences she had while writing her two latest books: ✨ Blue– a children's picture book that dives into the rich history of a single color ✨ My Parents' Marriage – an adult novel that explores the complex dynamics of family, love, and identity. The process of creating each of these works taught Nana different things. And in this conversation, she shares two key lessons she learned along the way. Lessons about transformation, flexibility, and what it really means to grow alongside your work. Honestly? This conversation lit something in me. It reminded me that no matter how smooth or bumpy the road, the journey itself is doing something deep and lasting in us. If you want to experience the joy and power of Nana's work, you can check out both books at nanabrewhammond.com. You'll be glad you did. About my guest: Nana Ekua Brew-Hammond is an American-Ghanaian writer of novels, short stories and a poet. In 2014 she was chosen as one of 39 of Sub-Saharan Africa's most promising writers under the age of 40, showcased in the Africa39 project. Nana has been featured on MSNBC, NY1, SaharaTV, ARISE TV, and has been published in Ebony Magazine. Her latest novel for adult readers, My Parents' Marriage, was featured in The New York Times Book Review's July 7, 2024 “...Also Out Now” column, Minneapolis Star Tribune, Booklist, and more. The author Melissa Rivero called it “a propulsive read that will take hold of you with its honesty, determination, and heart,” while the author Vanessa Walters described it as “an arrestingly evovative story…which dismantles immigrant clichés. Her children's picture book BLUE: A history of the Color as Deep as the Sea and as Wide as the Sky, illustrated by Caldecott Honor artist Daniel Minter, was named among the best of 2022 by NPR, New York Public Library, Chicago Public Library, Kirkus Reviews, The Center for the Study of Multicultural Literature, Bank Street College of Education, and more. BLUE is on the 2023-2024 Texas Bluebonnet Master List; it has been honored with the NCTE Orbis Pictus Award® recognizing excellence in writing of non-fiction for children; and it is an NAACP Image Award Nominee for Outstanding Literature for Chidlren. It was named to the American Libary Association's 2023 Notable Children's Books and nominated for a 2025 Georgia Chidlren's Book Award. Brew-Hammond also wrote the young adult novel Powder Necklace, which Publishers Weekly called “a winning debut”, and she edited RELATIONS: An Anthology of African and Diaspora Voices. Kirkus Reviews called the anthology “smart, generous…a true gift” in its starred review. Nana is also co-founder of Exit 14, a made in Ghana lifestyle line that has been featured in Vogue. About: The Reframe to Create podcast is hosted by Joy Spencer, an Executive Leadership and Storytelling Coach, Speaker, and Organizational Development Consultant working with professionals and leaders at all levels within organizations. Joy leverages over 17 years of experience she gained while working to champion change in social justice movements, including those related to global access to essential medicines and consumer advocacy for online privacy. This work required a dogged commitment to not merely challenging the status quo, but to reimagining and working towards creating an ideal future. It is this commitment to creating that has shaped Joy's coaching philosophy and approach today. Using her signature C.R.E.A.T.E. framework, Joy guides her clients through a process to become incomparable in work so they can get paid to be themselves. Follow Joy on LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/in/joy-spencer
Last week, I told you all about my favorite books from 2024. This week, I'm going to tell you all about what I plan to read in 2025. Resources from this episode: Nancy Ray Book Club By my friend on Goodreads! Kindle On Moonberry Lake by Holly Varni The Blooming of Delphinium by Holly Varni Smart Brevity: The Power of Saying More with Less TwoTone Creative The-Opt Out Family: How to Give Your Kids What Technology Can't by Erin Loechner The Let Them Theory by Mel Robbins 40 Days of Decrease by Alicia Britt Chole Anonymous by Alicia Britt Chole Underestimated by Mary Marantz The Wild Robot Trilogy by Peter Brown The Wedding People by Alison Espach The God of the Garden by Andrew Peterson The Thursday Murder Club by Richard Osman They Ask, You Answer by Marcus Sheridan The If I Run Series by Terri Blackstock The Comfort Crisis by Michael Easter How to Stop Worrying and Start Living by Dale Carnegie How to Win Friends and Influence People by Dale Carnegie Nancy Ray Website Nancy Ray on Instagram Affiliate links have been used in this post! I do receive a commission when you choose to purchase through these links, and that helps me keep this podcast up and running—I truly appreciate when you choose to use them!