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< Back Michele Kwasniewski Michele Kwasniewski author signing at ALA, Table 1652, on Friday, June 27th, at 6pm Award-winning author Michele Kwasniewski, author of YA fiction series, “The Rise and Fall of Dani Truehart” After graduating from Loyola Marymount University with a BA in Technical Theater, Michele Kwasniewski spent over fifteen years in film and television production. Starting out as a film set assistant on movies such as INDEPENDENCE DAY, FACE/OFF, PRIMAL FEAR, and EVITA, Michele eventually switched to the small screen and worked her way up the ladder to production manager, gaining experience on television shows such as BIG BROTHER, ADOPTION STORIES, EXTRA YARDAGE and MEET THE PANDAS. She is also a proud member of the Producers Guild of America. Michele’s colorful experiences in the industry inspired her to write THE RISE AND FALL OF DANI TRUEHART series. Michele lives in San Clemente, California with her husband, their son, and their disobedient dachshund. Share this article Facebook X (Twitter) WhatsApp LinkedIn Pinterest Copy link

< Back Dr. D.W. Knight UP CLOSE and PERSONAL with Dr. D.W. Knight Step right up and meet the whimsical world of Dr. D.W. Knight, the creative force behind "Tongue Teasers: Laugh-Along Songbook Origins - A Taste of the Poems Before the Music"! More than just an author, Dr. Knight is a true storyteller who weaves together hilarious wordplay, wonderfully weird characters, and often, a sprinkle of heartfelt wisdom within his rhyming verses. Not only does he pen these delightful tales, but he also brings them to life with his own quirky and expressive illustrations. Imagine a blend of Shel Silverstein's playful oddities and the Sherman Brothers' catchy charm, and you'll begin to get a sense of the joy Dr. Knight brings to readers of all ages, especially those between five and twelve. Having spent years as an educator and a global traveler fluent in multiple languages, Dr. Knight infuses his work with a unique perspective, ultimately inspiring the collaborative musical project, GiGGLE SPOON. Get ready to dive into a world where laughter and learning go hand in hand, crafted by the one and only "Mr. Positivity" himself! I met Dr. D.W. Knight in person recently, both at the LA Festival of Books, and then again at the Independent Press and NYC Big Book Awards Dinner, as "TONGUE TEASERS" was the 2025 NYC Big Book Award winner in the Childrens Humor category. A tall, inviting man, who often travels with Patricia Knight of BD Brands (aka GiGGLE SPOON) and Bradford Knight, who composed music inspired by some of the poetry within “TONGUE TEASERS” and released it under the name GiGGLE SPOON. The trio's radiant happiness, always on display through their smiles, makes being around them a joy. Dr. D.W. Knight began writing poetry as a creative expression during his senior year as an undergraduate studying abroad in Madrid, Spain. He likens poetry to his favorite techno music for its structure and form that keeps him focused with set boundaries to follow, as compared to writing a novel which is more like jazz with its freeform and endless possibilities. The poetry in “TONGUE TEASERS” is inspired by his experiences as a teacher and coach to kids he saw struggling with self-doubt, feelings of hopelessness, and fears of failure. Having empathy for them and recognizing the social stressors that kids are enduring more so today with the repercussions of pandemic isolation, social media influences and escalating cyber bullying, Knight hoped his form of storytelling through poetry could bring joy to kids and help them to better cope with and overcome these rising challenges by imparting universal life lessons and good values through relatable and funny characters, ultimately so they would know they're not alone. And just as he loved exploring imaginary new worlds by reading books like the original Oz series or playing video games like Zelda when he was a kid, Knight hoped that he, too, could take readers to fun, new places where they could escape and laugh. In addition to writing the words, D.W. is also the illustrator. For TONGUE TEASERS, he included black and white sketches that he’d made for nearly every poem in the book. But with each book in the growing collection of Laugh-Along Songbooks, he’s making multiple pages of drawings to tell each individual poem’s story. The artwork is also used in the video production to accompany each poem’s music. D.W. says he loves the process of inventing and creating new characters from scratch. They take shape and evolve with each new sketch into what he recognizes as new “friends” to introduce to the world. His takeaway point is to impress upon kids, especially the ones who have some self-doubt and don’t yet know where their strengths are or their place in the world, that we are all a work in progress. It’s a metaphor for life – we are unfinished, constantly being shaped, tweaked and refined into a work of art. Dr. D.W. Knight credits his grandmother Eleanor for having instilled in him a genuine love for words and the beauty of language. She had devoted her career to developing a reading curriculum for children in response to her own son’s, Knight’s father’s, inability to read by third grade and the teacher telling her she didn’t know what else could be done. Determined, his grandmother made it her life’s work and became the reading director for the Minnetonka public school district in Minnesota. Shel Silverstein remains a favorite of D.W.’s since childhood when his grandmother gave him a copy of “Where the Sidewalk Ends”. He devoured the pages and his linguistic imagination played under Shel’s tutelage. Also in his home, shaping his mind for rhythmic words, were the joyful and catchy songs of the Sherman Brothers. His mother and father were always singing, filling their home with the sounds of music. It’s no wonder D.W.’s brother became a musician, composing music and writing songs. Knight thanks “K-12 teachers everywhere, parents who have the most important job in the world, kids across the planet, his brother Brad who keeps making great music, his late grandmother, parents, and Larry and Patty who always believed if New Yorkers loved the poems, others would too!” “TONGUE TEASERS” is a collection of illustrated poems written in rhyming verse with hilarious wordplay and outlandish inventiveness imbued with wit, life-lessons and wisdom that transcend age but equally entertain children with zany, memorable characters, making this book a favorite for all ages! Share this article Facebook X (Twitter) WhatsApp LinkedIn Pinterest Copy link

< Back Facebook X (Twitter) WhatsApp LinkedIn Pinterest Copy link Share this page: Printed Word Reviews eNewsletter Printed Word October 22, 2025 Printed Word Reviews, https://www.printedwordreviews.com/magazine October 2025 - Publisher edition - Share with a friend ======================================== IN THIS ISSUE Fired librarian awarded large settlement New Issue Baker & Taylor winding down Featured book review by Printed Word Reviews Interviews Book review Sponsored Coming Soon ========================================= Librarian Terri Lesley's First Amendment Battle Ends in Big Settlement Over LGBTQ+ Book Dispute https://www.printedwordreviews.com/articles ========================================= New PWR issue: https://www.printedwordreviews.com/magazine ========================================= Baker & Taylor Two-Century Legacy Comes to an End https://www.printedwordreviews.com/articles/baker-%26-taylor's-two-century-legacy-comes-to-an-end ========================================= Featured Printed Word Review FALCON book review: "Restore Me! But Privately Please" by Dr. Susan Agbenoto A Christian book that addresses the silent struggles and spiritual fatigue of Christian leaders, offering a guide for private, personal restoration and spiritual healing while navigating the burdens of their public roles. Read more at https://www.printedwordreviews.com/bookreviews/9798385017621 ========================================= Gab Talks Interviews President of the Independent Press Award speaks with Anita Selzer, author of The Female Gaze in Art and Photography. https://www.independentpressaward.com/thegabtalks/the-female-gaze-in-art-and-photography ========================================== Printed Word Reviews Interviews Ted Olczak, Publisher of Printed Word Reviews, at ALA with Maria Loftus, Sales Director at Inner Traditions, https://youtu.be/sn9wEzUaoJI . ========================================== Book review: "Song of the Raven: An Inuit Tale of Harmony with Nature" A beautifully illustrated Inuit tale by Amanda Hall that tells the story of how the raven created the world and how a young boy must restore the sun after humanity's disrespect for nature plunges the Earth into darkness. The book is a powerful reminder of the importance of living in harmony with the natural world, featuring a moral message wrapped in a stunning visual experience. https://www.printedwordreviews.com/bookreviews/9781957670041 ========================================== Sponsored by the Independent Press Award Receive recognition! The Independent Press Award is designed to recognize excellent books published by independent authors and publishers, self-published and traditional authors in 15 main categories (100 subcategories). Next rolling deadline is November 30th, https://www.independentpressaward.com/ , all books to be received by December 15, 2025. Winners are announced in late January. VIP tickets for NYC Big Book Award attendees have now sold out this fall, premium and standard tickets still available https://www.nycbigbookaward.com/awardsdinner Be recognized and have your winning title published in Printed Word Reviews magazine. ========================================== COMING SOON Holiday Gift Guide closes out October 30th, https://www.independentpressaward.com/advertise Independent Press Award now accepting book entries: https://independentpressaward.com ========================================== (c) 2025 Ted Olczak. Please forward and share this newsletter in its entirety. Ted@PrintedWordReviews.com or connect at https://www.linkedin.com/in/ted-olczak-64a1386/ Previous Next

Magazines BookCAMP by Printed Word Reviews Covers the business of publishing. Frequency: Five times annually, Quarterly plus extra issue Issue Dates: Nov 2023-Jan 2024; Feb-April 2024; May-July 2024; Aug-Oct 2024; Learn More Independent Press Award and NYC Big Book Award Present Award-winning books from over 100+ categories from around the world, read the NYC Big Book Award 2023 Announcement issue! Visit independentpressaward.com/subscribe to learn about more great authors from NYC Big Book Award (every fall) and Independent Press Award (every spring). Learn More

< Back The Case Against Jasper Clifton Wilcox justice, community, truth, investigation, accident, prejudice, transformation Windward Publishing Buy this book: Share this review: Copy link Facebook LinkedIn X (Twitter) WhatsApp Pinterest In a close-knit animal community, the tragic fall of a beloved squirrel ignites a quest for truth that uncovers hidden fears, reveals the dangers of assumptions, and ultimately transforms the community through the power of empathy and justice. “The Case Against Jasper” by Clifton Wilcox is more than a whodunnit set in the woods; it’s an allegory that holds a mirror up to the dangers of gossip, prejudice, and hasty judgment in any community. Set against the richly detailed backdrop of Wildwoods Farm, Wilcox seems to blend the charm of a classic animal fable with the emotional depth of a mystery. The story begins with tragedy: the sudden death of young squirrel, Jenny, following a frantic chase across a high-voltage wire. The community, led by the pervasive voices of "gossiping hens," immediately casts suspicion upon Jenny's best friend, Jasper, turning a heartbroken squirrel into an instant pariah. This initial setup is emotionally resonant and immediately establishes the book's central dilemma: the clash between knee-jerk accusations and the patient pursuit of truth. The narrative gains momentum with the introduction of the investigative team: Ink, the sharp-witted ferret, and Fiona, the insightful feline. Their search for justice is driven by the discovery of Jenny's locket, which leads them to Lily, the young squirrel witness. Lily's brave, heartbreaking account reveals the true antagonist, the menacing weasel Sly, whose predatory actions forced Jenny into a desperate, fatal escape. This book is compelling on how the investigation evolves. It moves beyond simply clearing Jasper’s name. When Ink and Fiona present their findings, the community trial becomes less about punishment and more about collective accountability. The unexpected discovery of a faulty clasp from the Willow Creek Workshop further broadens the scope, transforming the isolated incident into a community-wide conversation about standards and responsibility. The triumph of “The Case Against Jasper” lies in its resolution and thematic complexity. Jasper is rightfully exonerated and Sly is exiled, but the book’s climax isn't the verdict; it’s the transformation of Wildwoods Farm itself. The trial serves as a powerful, necessary public lesson in empathy, understanding, and critical thinking. The community, recognizing their mistake, commits to healing, fostering open communication, and adopting collaborative problem-solving. Jenny's memory becomes a catalyst for positive change, symbolized by the newly established community garden and Harvest Festival—proof of their resilience and unity. “The Case Against Jasper” is an ideal read for young adults and adults who appreciate intricate storytelling and moral dilemmas. It’s a blend of mystery, emotional depth, and allegory that will resonate long after the final page. Clifton Wilcox offers a hopeful yet realistic look at how compassion and the commitment to truth can mend a fractured society. Previous Next

< Back A Global Hub for the Future of Storytelling London Book Fair 2025: A Global Hub for the Future of Storytelling The London Book Fair, a cornerstone event in the global publishing calendar, stands as a vibrant literary marketplace in which all our industry helps decide where the future of storytelling takes shape. An industry trade show, the London Book Fair is a dynamic hub for rights negotiation, content sales, and distribution across the diverse landscape of print, audio, television, film, and digital channels. This annual gathering draws publishers, literary agents, authors, and a spectrum of industry professionals from around the world, all converging to shape the narratives that captivate audiences worldwide. At the heart of the London Book Fair lies a trifecta of focus areas: rights trading, networking, and staying abreast of the ever-evolving industry trends. It's a space where deals are struck, partnerships forged, and insights shared, ensuring that the literary world remains agile and responsive to the demands of a global audience. Printed Word Reviews took the time to sit in sessions, meet with agents and vendors, talk to those specializing in author promotion and book review distribution, and how authors plan to amplify their reach and impact. Industry engagement is crucial. Attending seminars and panels allowed Printed Word Reviews to stay informed about the latest trends in publishing and digital media. The 'Building a Community and Brand Around Your Writing' panel at Tech Theatre on March 11th provided invaluable insights into the evolving digital landscape, focusing on platforms like Substack, TikTok, and Discord. In an era of increasing digital tools, the session emphasized the importance of writers' self-promotion. Led by industry experts, the discussion explored how writers can leverage digital platforms and refine strategies to build sustainable and authentic audiences. In an exclusive interview with Xue Mo, PWR’s publisher Ted Olczak discussed the transformative power of love and wisdom, the importance of cultural reflections, and the hope that can emerge from darkness that are so prevalent in Xue mo’s works. He emphasizes the role of knowledge and writing in creating a balanced world and inspiring change. "Growing Your Readership and Marketing Your Genre" session sponsored by Kindle Direct Publishing was a popular session, not a seat to be had. Moderated by Jen Barrett, this Author HQ session featured a diverse panel of successful self-published authors—JM Dalgliesh (crime), Sadie Kincaid (contemporary dark romance), and JD Kirk (crime/alter ego of Barry Hutchison, also children's fiction). The discussion centered on effective strategies for authors to reach their target audiences, given the myriad marketing options available, from social media platforms like Facebook and BookTok to traditional methods like reader newsletters and Amazon Ads. In addition to the sessions, networking and partnerships are paramount. By connecting with publishers and literary agents, attendees expand their network, discover emerging authors, and build collaborative relationships with other literary platforms and media outlets. These connections are vital for identifying the next wave of literary talent and ensuring their platform remains at the forefront of book discovery. The London Book Fair is crucial for those seeking a global marketplace for rights, professional networking, business development, and industry insights. Thousands attend each year to strengthen industry connections, promote services, and solidify their place in the literary world, contributing to the vibrant landscape of global storytelling. Share this article Facebook X (Twitter) WhatsApp LinkedIn Pinterest Copy link

< Back DAMAGED HERITAGE: The Elaine Race Massacre and A Story of Reconciliation J. Chester Johnson Nonfiction Publisher: Pegasus Books Ltd; Distributor: Simon & Schuster Buy this book: Share this review: Copy link Facebook LinkedIn X (Twitter) WhatsApp Pinterest A white man's journey of reckoning with his family's ties to the Elaine Race Massacre leads him to seek reconciliation with a descendant of the victims, exploring the complexities of racial healing in America. J. Chester Johnson's "Damaged Heritage" is a profound exploration of the author's personal journey to uncover and confront the white supremacist roots embedded in his Southern upbringing. The book delves into Johnson's family's connection to the Elaine Race Massacre of 1919, a horrific event where over a hundred African American sharecroppers were killed. Johnson's narrative spans from the massacre to his poignant meeting with Sheila Walker, a descendant of the massacre's victims, nearly a century later. This work is a heartfelt and deeply personal contribution to the literature of white remembrance and a serious reckoning with America's racial past. Written in a popular style, the book is accessible and timely, offering a significant contribution to the ongoing work of racial healing and reconciliation. The book begins with Johnson's discovery of his family's ties to the Elaine Race Massacre and his subsequent journey to understand the event's impact. He recounts the massacre's brutal details and the unjust legal proceedings that followed, highlighting the role of African American lawyer Scipio Africanus Jones in defending the wrongfully convicted sharecroppers. Johnson then explores the concept of "damaged heritage," the ingrained racism passed down through generations, and the psychological mechanisms that sustain it. His personal experiences growing up in the segregated South and his rejection of those values inform his narrative. Johnson's relationship with Sheila Walker is a central theme, illustrating the potential for reconciliation through truth and mutual respect. Their friendship, built on the shared history of the massacre, serves as a powerful example of healing across racial divides. The book also addresses the resurgence of white nationalism in contemporary America, particularly during Donald Trump's presidency, and the critical need for white Americans to distinguish their actions from the past's damaged heritage. "Damaged Heritage" reasons that acknowledging and addressing the past's racial injustices is essential for genuine reconciliation. Johnson provides compelling evidence through historical accounts, personal reflections, and his relationship with Walker. The book's conclusion emphasizes the importance of forgiveness and the need for white Americans to seek it from African Americans for the pervasive damaged heritage. "Damaged Heritage" is for readers interested in American history, racial reconciliation, and personal narratives of transformation. It is particularly relevant for those seeking to understand the deep-seated roots of racism in the United States and the steps necessary for healing. This book is a vital resource for anyone committed to fostering genuine relationships that bridge racial divides and contribute to a more just society. Previous Next

eNewsletters Printed Word Reviews - August 2025 Printed Word Reviews Printed Word Reviews Volume 1, Issue 6 Printed Word Reviews Printed Word Reviews Volume 1, Issue 6 Printed Word Reviews Volume 1, Issue 6 READ NOW Printed Word Reviews Volume 1, Issue 6 READ NOW Printed Word Reviews Volume 1, Issue 6 READ NOW Printed Word Reviews Volume 1, Issue 6 READ NOW Printed Word Reviews Volume 1, Issue 6 READ NOW Printed Word Reviews Volume 1, Issue 6 READ NOW

Sales & Marketing Independent Press Award and NYC Big Book Award Magazine Reaching over 15,000 librarians and booksellers, 25,000 additional book lovers and consumers. Contact the Publisher Ted Olczak Ted@GabbyBookAwards.com Reach out today! PublisherConnection High quality agency work at a fraction of the price. Custom marketing. Reach out to us with your custom request at 4mindshare@gmail.com . Reach out today!

< Back Angela Harris Finding Love in the Margins: One Author's Journey to Redefine Romance A healthy teenage passion for romance novels, Angela Harris began writing at 13. Yet, as pages turned and stories unfolded, a glaring absence became impossible to ignore: where were the stories that reflected her community? Where were the tales of love and desire that resonated with women of color? This question, posed in the heart of a young writer, would shape a lifelong mission. Early attempts to bridge this gap were met with a disheartening response. A major publishing house, Harlequin, in a moment that would define her path, asserted “that Black women were content reading about white women but the reverse wasn't true” Harris expressed, “so they didn't see a need for a novel that looked like other communities.” That dismissal, rather than extinguishing the flame, ignited a fire. It was then Harris knew she had to create the stories that represented the kinds of stories she longed to read. And so, she did. With a pen as her weapon and a heart as her guide, she embarked on a journey to craft romance novels that centered the experiences of women of color. More than mere escapism, these stories are woven with biblical principles, offering a framework for navigating the complexities of real life with grace. The "Where the Heart of a Woman is a Taste and Touch" series is a testament to this unwavering dedication. Each page is a celebration of love, desire, and the pursuit of healthy relationships, all within the context of the unique challenges and triumphs faced by women of color. "My writing is more than just a passion; it's a calling," she explains. "I write to inspire women to believe love and desire”, to know that they are worthy of fulfilling “healthy relationships,” and to see their own stories reflected in the pages of a book. In a world where representation matters, this author's work stands as a beacon of hope and affirmation. She has taken the perceived limitations placed upon her and transformed them into a powerful platform for storytelling. By weaving faith and real life situations into her romance novels, she has created a unique space within the genre. Share this article Facebook X (Twitter) WhatsApp LinkedIn Pinterest Copy link

< Back Loretta Goldberg Loretta Goldberg author signing at ALA, Table 1652, on Saturday, June 28th, at 1pm Award-winning author Loretta Goldberg writes historical literary fiction with battle scenes. She loves this genre because she finds in history’s frames, where events have beginnings and endings, a magical mirror in which we can see ourselves more fully. She earned a BA (Hons.) in English, Music and History at the University of Melbourne, Australia. She came to the USA on a Fulbright scholarship for piano. Her CDs are in 700 libraries. After a financial planning career she returned to her first love, writing. Her debut novel The Reversible Mask: An Elizabethan Spy Novel (MadeGlobal Publishing) has won several awards. Her non-fiction articles include Tudor history, financial planning, arts reviews and political satire. Chair of HNS-NY Chapter, she also belongs to the Authors Guild and NLAPW. A people and animal lover, she enjoys traveling, hiking, swimming and taking terrible photographs. Beyond the Bukubuk Tree: A World War II Novel of Love and Loss. New Guinea, 1941. Heroism, sacrifice and ultimately, hope, transcend the horror of war. Two men preparing for war, both with secrets they are determined to keep. Jake Friedman, an idealistic young Jewish doctor from Melbourne, is haunted by the death of a colleague he thinks he caused. Alex Whipple, a Catholic known as Wip, is a soul- scarred veteran of the First World War, an idealist who fights bullies on behalf of their victims yet has a chequered past in the wild side of post-war Paris that he is determined to forget. Both are posted to Lark Force, a lone and under-resourced battalion defending the port town of Rabaul. When the Japanese invade Rabaul, their battalion is abandoned by the Australian government. Improvising a jungle retreat, fighting rain, insects, disease, and vengeful Japanese pursuers, Jake will face the ultimate trials of his courage as Wip struggles to find the will to live. Many reviewers find the novel riveting, unforgettable and a war novel like no other, while The Midwest Book Review recommends it to libraries with World War II collections. Share this article Facebook X (Twitter) WhatsApp LinkedIn Pinterest Copy link

< Back Cybersecurity: Safeguarding Our Digital World Justin K. Kojok cybersecurity, digital threats, ransomware, legal implications, data protection Justin Kojok Buy this book: Share this review: Copy link Facebook LinkedIn X (Twitter) WhatsApp Pinterest In a world increasingly threatened by sophisticated cyberattacks, "Cybersecurity: Safeguarding Our Digital World" offers a comprehensive guide to understanding and defending against the evolving landscape of digital threats through innovative technologies and collaborative strategies. In "Cybersecurity: Safeguarding Our Digital World," Justin Kojok presents a comprehensive and insightful look into the complex and ever-evolving landscape of digital defense. The book effectively bridging the gap between foundational principles and cutting-edge technological advancements. Kojok equips readers with the knowledge needed to understand and navigate the challenges of our interconnected world. The book begins by highlighting the dual nature of modern technology: while it has revolutionized our lives, it has also introduced a myriad of new security vulnerabilities. It thoroughly examines the impact of key technological trends, including the security implications of cloud computing and the increased risks associated with 5G networks. A central theme is the exploration of AI's dual role—as a powerful tool for threat detection and as a weapon that can be exploited by cybercriminals. The discussion of blockchain and quantum computing also provides a forward-looking perspective on how emerging technologies will shape future security strategies. A significant strength of the book is its emphasis on cyber resilience. Beyond simply preventing attacks, Kojok stresses the importance of an organization's ability to recover and adapt after an incident. He offers practical, actionable guidance on incident response and on building a robust security posture. This focus on preparedness and adaptability is a crucial takeaway for any individual or organization. The book also underscores the necessity of collaborative efforts in cybersecurity. Kojok advocates for stronger partnerships between the private sector and global organizations to facilitate information sharing and develop joint defense strategies. He also addresses the human factor, emphasizing the critical need for education and workforce training to fill the talent gap in the field. Kojok doesn't shy away from the legal and ethical dimensions of cybersecurity. He discusses accountability for data breaches and navigates the intricate regulatory landscape, including the implications of laws like GDPR. This section adds value, providing context for how technical decisions must align with legal obligations. In conclusion, "Cybersecurity: Safeguarding Our Digital World" is an essential read for anyone interested in digital defense, from IT professionals and cybersecurity practitioners to students and the general public. Kojok's blend of fundamental concepts, advanced technologies, and practical examples provides a clear roadmap for staying ahead of threats. The book's final message is a powerful call for proactive thinking and innovation to protect our shared digital environment. It is a must-read for anyone seeking to understand the tools, technologies, and ideas that will shape the future of cybersecurity. Previous Next