Book review of Once Upon a Tile: Suzi's Shower & Her Superpower by Laura Muirhead . ISBN: < Back Take me back to https://www.childrensbookwormaward.com/ Once Upon a Tile: Suzi's Shower & Her Superpower Laura Muirhead Childrens, making new friends Laura Muirhead Share this review: Copy link Facebook LinkedIn X (Twitter) WhatsApp Pinterest Tackling a universal childhood experience—moving and making new friends—"Once Upon a Tile: Suzi's Shower & Her Superpower" blends it with a unique, imaginative premise. This story captures the anxieties and wonders of childhood through the eyes of Suzi, a young girl navigating a new home and new friendships. The concept of seeing images in shower tiles is imaginative and engaging. It’s a whimsical idea that children will grasp and likely relate to, sparking their own curiosity about what they might see in everyday objects. Suzi's journey from nervousness to discovery, and then to self-doubt and ultimately self-acceptance, is well-paced and emotionally resonant. The initial reactions of her parents, who are a bit dismissive but ultimately come around, are realistic and provide a gentle push for Suzi to prove herself. The gradual revelation of her unique "superpower" and the subsequent bullying she experiences will resonate with many children who have felt different or misunderstood. The resolution, where Suzi bravely shares her gift and is celebrated for it, delivers a powerful and much-needed message about embracing individuality and the "superpowers" within us all. The teacher's role in validating Suzi's talent and encouraging the other students to find their own "powers" is a fantastic way to broaden the story's message beyond just Suzi. Previous Next

Book review of Love, Sugar and Cookie by Susan Marie Chapman . ISBN: 9798992222357 < Back Love, Sugar and Cookie Susan Marie Chapman Pomeranians, twins, family bond, diverse personalities Gourmet Dog LLC Share this review: Copy link Facebook LinkedIn X (Twitter) WhatsApp Pinterest This adorable story by Susan Marie Chapman follows Pomeranians Sugar and Cookie and the sisterly bond that ties them together despite their different personalities. Love, Sugar and Cookie is a charming tale about sisterhood and what Sugar and Cookie get up to throughout their days. Sugar is reserved and poised, while Cookie is sassy and energetic. While Sugar enjoys a relaxing time, Cookie seeks adventure like trying to capture lizards. Their differences shape the way they experience everything. As different as they may seem, they balance each other out and get to be there for one another no matter the situation. Throughout the book, the twins go to the beach, meet up with their dog friends, and get treats when they can. These may seem like everyday dog activities, but for Sugar and Cookie being with each other makes them special experiences. Their times together are embedded with the love that can only come from a sister. They happily accept each other’s quirks and complement one another, strengthening their bond. The book highlights the importance of familial ties despite differences while maintaining a playful nature, accompanied by cute pictures of Sugar and Cookie. The short and fun descriptions of the happenings on the pages allow for the story to be engaging and a page-turner. The language is playful with fun analogies and insight into the dogs’ personalities. The text is accompanied by an array of photos of Sugar and Cookie in the midst of their adventures which helps bring their distinct personalities to life. Love, Sugar and Cookie is a lovely celebration of sisterhood, in which their differences make their bond stronger. Through Sugar and Cookie’s everyday adventures, the book celebrates the importance of the in-between moments surrounded by loved ones. With its playful language and adorable photos, the story will appeal to young children, especially those with siblings. Previous Next

Book review of A Heart Full of Whiskey by Raquel Lesser . ISBN: < Back A Heart Full of Whiskey Raquel Lesser adolescent, new adult, personal trauma, self-discovery AuthorHouse Share this review: Copy link Facebook LinkedIn X (Twitter) WhatsApp Pinterest After a traumatic breakup and a descent into self-destruction, a young woman embarks on a journey of self-discovery and healing, ultimately reclaiming her identity and strength through the support of friends. A Journey to Reclaim Identity As the adolescent jots notes of affecting and traumatic experiences, the disjointed writing detracts from this character-driven narrative. This poetic short story verse reveals an emotionally charged exploration of personal trauma and the difficult journey toward self-discovery. Set against the backdrop of contemporary Manhattan, the short story follows a young woman's path from self-destruction to empowerment. The story introduces us to Rachel, a former bookish student from NYU whose life has spiraled into a blur of bars, whiskey, and anonymous clubs. Her physical appearance, marked by messy short hair and raccoon eyes, is a stark visual contrast to her former self. We are quickly introduced to her deep feelings of despair and failure, fueled by a painful past with her ex-boyfriend, Vince. These feelings are exacerbated by her expulsion from NYU, reinforcing the sense of worthlessness that has consumed her. The heart of the story lies in Rachel's tumultuous journey and the pivotal moment that changes everything. After a night of heavy drinking and a disorienting morning, she runs into her former best friend, Alisa. It is in this moment of raw vulnerability that Rachel reveals the traumatic experience of being raped by Vince, a revelation that finally explains her dramatic transformation. The conversation with Alisa marks the book's emotional climax, as Alisa's comfort and unwavering support allow Rachel to begin the difficult process of healing and reconnecting with her old self. The importance of friendship and the capacity for self-reclamation is the takeaway. It concludes with Rachel feeling empowered, strong, and no longer defined by her past. The narrative underscores that while trauma can drastically alter a person, the love and support of others can be a critical force in finding one's way back. Previous Next

Book review of The Sure Thing: A Pleasure Practice to Revive the Spark by Elana Auerbach . ISBN: 979-8998787072 < Back The Sure Thing: A Pleasure Practice to Revive the Spark Elana Auerbach Self-help, wellness, health, intimacy, pleasure, connection Flower of Life Press Share this review: Copy link Facebook LinkedIn X (Twitter) WhatsApp Pinterest One woman's guide to reigniting desire and intimacy within her marriage, her capacity for joy and activism, by creating a customizable weekly “Sure Thing” pleasure ritual that deepens intimacy, embodiment, and connection. In a world where ”spontaneity” is often treated as the gold standard for a healthy sex life, Elana Auerbach’s “The Sure Thing” arrives like a bucket of reality. It’s a book that asks a radical question: What if the secret to a great sex life isn't magic, but a schedule? Auerbach wastes no time dismantling the myth that desire should always be an effortless lightning strike. Drawing from her own twelve-year ‘intimacy desert,’ she argues that “The Sure Thing” method, a weekly, non-negotiable ritual of connection, is the only way to safeguard pleasure against the grind of career, kids, and modern burnout. The book’s strongest asset is Auerbach herself. Her background is a cocktail of wall-street finance and West Coast somatic healing, and she writes with a voice that is both honest and deeply empathetic. She helps one navigate the shame many feel when their “spark” has faded, treating it not as a failure, but as a standard biological response to stress. Unlike many self-help books that stay in the realm of theory, “The Sure Thing” is a “playbook.” The “Love Ripples” exercises at the end of each chapter turn lofty concepts into Tuesday-night realities. Importantly, the book doesn't leave single people behind. Auerbach emphasizes that pleasure is a personal responsibility, and her “Solo Sure” sections are some of the most empowering parts of the text. Auerbach’s writing is punchy and occasionally irreverent, preventing the “somatic” and “mindfulness” talk from feeling too “out there” for the casual reader. She uses clear, vivid metaphors to describe the body's response to intimacy, making complex psychological concepts accessible. If there is a hurdle to this book, it’s the required commitment. Auerbach is clear: this isn't a “quick fix” or a “hack.” She asks for a fundamental shift in how you prioritize time. For couples deeply entrenched in conflict or severe avoidance, the initial leap into “The Sure Thing” ritual might feel daunting. “The Sure Thing” is for anyone who feels like their intimate life has become a “should” instead of a “want.” It’s an invitation to stop waiting for the mood to strike and start building the fire yourself. Previous Next

Learn more about Xuemo < Back Xuemo Xue Mo Illuminating the Darkness: A Conversation with Ted Olczak I had the great privilege of sitting down with Xue Mo at this year’s London Book Fair. Xue Mo, formerly known as Chen Kaihong, was born in Liangzhou, Gansu province. Among other positions, Xue Mo is a cultural scholar, China's National First-class Writer, and Vice President of Gansu Writers Association. Xue Mo’s best known work is his Desert Trilogy. He dedicated 12 years to writing “Desert Rites”, the first novel in the series. It depicts the life of a typical rural family in China’s western provinces during the second half of the twentieth century. After it was published in 2000, Xue Mo became famous overnight. Following the critical and commercial success of “Desert Rites”, Xue Mo wrote “Desert Hunters”, a multi-character fable set around a watering hole known as the ‘Pig’s Belly Well’. The novel examines the conflict between humans and nature in their struggle for survival. The final novel in the trilogy, “White Tiger Pass”, explores the cultural psychology of people living in western China, and focuses around the lives of three women, Lan Lan, Ying and Yue – characters also encountered in his short story collection, “Selected Stories by Xue Mo”. His works are mainly characterized by the culture of western China and contain the essence of Oriental civilization. He is now focused on the theme of one’s ultimate Transcendence. In our conversation, Xue Mo emphasized that the power of love and wisdom can transform the world. Our conversation, through his translator, unveiled that readers seek happiness and respect through literature and that more published works can lead to a more balanced world. Xue Mo feels that writing can illuminate societal darkness and that cultural reflections are essential for understanding global issues. Despite widespread violence, hope persists in knowledge. In the end, the continued importance of writing, sharing messages, and engaging in conversations can inspire collective action. Here is a clip from our conversation: Ted Olczak: Could you elaborate on your philosophies regarding the relationship between woman and nature? What are the major effects on the world? Xue Mo: The world is engulfed in violence and conflict. Humanity requires a culture and spirit that transcends mere desires and materialism. We need a nurturing spirit akin to that of a mother, yet women often find themselves without a voice in these matters. The power of discourse in our world predominantly resides with men, who tend to favor violence, authority, and success. Consequently, the prevalence of violence and wars persists. Through my artistic endeavors, I aspire to awaken the feminine power within individuals. Since a mother would never send her child into battle; conversely, it is often men who take their sons to war. Thus, when the essence of maternal love becomes the prevailing force in society, the light of peace will descend upon the earth. This motivation drives me to write about feminine power—to ignite love within every heart. When love and wisdom become dominant forces globally, humanity will experience tranquility and happiness. Therefore, much of my writing centers on themes of love and wisdom. My readers are those who do not endorse violence but instead embody compassion and insight. It is my hope that both my readers and the broader world embrace these values—this aspiration was one reason why I go outside of China. Xue Mo emphasized that there is so much violence in the world, and his message of Love & Wisdom is an important one. Xue Mo: When human beings are valued by the world, the world will follow it. Although my works are not numerous, they are like a pile of fire in the darkness. When more books are published, we are balanced and the world will become more balanced. Ted Olczak: I think that's important, just like the 20th century writer Jack London, in The Call of the Wild , tells man against nature, so how we think about that in American terms, his influences in his book and how he thinks, how he reveals the relationship between woman and nature , and bring that out in the article. CULTURAL REFLECTIONS & GLOBAL PERSPECTIVE Ted Olczak: Does he think humans can receive the light of love and wisdom? Xue Mo 's Translator: He thinks they can. Xue Mo: Although most of my publications are [fiction], it can light a candle, like a starlight, it can light the darkness [in the] world. Ted Olczak: So does Xue Mo feel through his writings that he can show the light and the power of love and wisdom? And his wish to enlighten people, why would cultures see the wisdom in that? Why would people choose [love & wisdom] when there's so much glorification of violence and conflict and it's promoted by leaders in the Western world. How is his message of love and wisdom going to influence that darkness? Xue Mo: China has excellent culture that has never been able to come out. China's excellent culture has no voice in the world. This kind of discourse power is controlled by the West. But it is like a lighthouse in the dark sea. It cannot dispel the darkness, but it can bring hope. HOPE AMIDST DARKNESS Ted Olczak: Is he fearful of how the current violence is taking over the country? Does he feel that there's hope that people will receive this message? And does he see an event that could change this? Xue Mo: I can't change the world, but I can change my readers. Since the way we perceive the world through our minds shapes the reality within our mind. When our perspectives shift, the world transforms accordingly. When more of my readers change their minds, their world changes. If everyone becomes a reader and changes their mindset, the world will transform. Ted Olczak: Knowledge is power. (Translator: You're already changing yourself, ha ha). What's next? Xue Mo: I will definitely continue to write. And definitely you can influence all the people in your group. Just one light, one candle lighting one candle, light another candle…and we can light the world around us. The world is very dark. But our world is full of light. Ted Olczak: Let’s light candles together! Share this article Facebook X (Twitter) WhatsApp LinkedIn Pinterest Copy link

< Back Publishers Show-off at ALA 2025: A Round-Up of Must-Have Titles July 29, 2025 at 9:33:39 AM The American Library Association (ALA) 2025 conference was buzzing for publishers and librarians alike, offering important titles for a library’s collection. From diverse children's literature to niche non-fiction and captivating poetry, Printed Word Reviews had the honor of interviewing publishers showcasing books designed to engage, educate, and entertain readers of all ages. Here's a round-up of some of the standout presses and their exciting offerings, and if you want to view the interviews, please visit our YouTube Channel, https://www.youtube.com/@Independentpressaward/videos Casemate Publishers: Exploring Military History and Local Stories Lauren Stead from Casemate Publishers showcased their expertise in military history and their growing two-year old Brookline Books imprint, which focuses on the greater Philadelphia’s local histories. Casemate also serves as a distributor for numerous international publishers. A highlight for their 250th anniversary programming is "Noble Undertaking," a two-volume work by Brian Deming that delves into the entire Continental Congress (Two Volumes). Stead also presented their popular "America Through Time" series, a collection of beautiful photo books that document various states and regions across the U.S., ideal for library regional collections. Casemate distributes for international clients including White Owl, Pen and Sword, and Berlin. More information on their titles and distribution services at https://www.casematepublishers.com/ . Charlesbridge Publishing: Celebrating Stories from Diverse Perspectives Donna Spurlock, Marketing Director for Charlesbridge Publishing, introduced the Massachusetts-based children's publisher, which has been operating for almost four decades. Charlesbridge publishes books for ages 0 to 18, offering a wide range of engaging titles. Among the key titles that resonated with librarians at ALA 2025 were "CC and the Underground Railroad Cinderella," a fictional retelling of the Cinderella story featuring an enslaved girl rescued by Harriet Tubman. Another highlight was "Dropbear" by Philip Bunting, (releasing Sept. 9, 2025), a humorous and insightful story that promotes the message of "not judging a book by its cover." For middle-grade readers, "The Golden Necklace" by National Book Award finalist Mitali Perkins was particularly exciting, offering an intrigue-filled mystery set in India for ages 7 to 10. Librarians can discover more at https://www.charlesbridge.com/ . Dow Creative Enterprises: Making Medical Concepts Accessible for Children Michael Dow from Dow Creative Enterprises presented his "Nurse Florence" series, a unique program designed to introduce medical words and concepts to children. His goal is to help kids understand how their bodies work and to better comprehend diseases that might affect their families. Dow emphasized that his program is a pioneer in the market for children's health book series, with his books even being sold on Harvard.com , which he considers a significant endorsement. The "Nurse Florence" series aims to be in every library, offering a "first to market" approach. In addition to the core books, many titles have been converted into coloring books, providing a coping skill through drawing paired with learning. A particularly exciting series is "Nurse Dorothea," launched about a year ago, which focuses on mental health for teenagers and young adults. These interactive books encourage readers to participate with characters through exercises like deep breathing, helping to remove the stigma surrounding mental illness. More at https://nurseflorence.org/ . Globe Pequot: Guiding Readers Through Regional Discoveries and Outdoor Adventures Jason Rossi from Globe Pequot showcased their diverse range of imprints, with a strong emphasis on children's literature and adult nonfiction. He noted that their children's imprint, Muddy Boots, and adult nonfiction imprints like Prometheus Books, Falcon Guides, Stackpole Books, and Lyons Press are highly popular with librarians. A standout title for librarians at the show was "Quail Trail" from the Muddy Boots imprint, which educates children about outdoor safety while also providing information about quails. Globe Pequot is also known for its extensive collection of "how-to" Falcon Guides, which offer regional insights for outdoor recreation activities such as hiking and cycling across the U.S. These guides are seen as invaluable resources for library shelves. Find out more at: https://www.globepequot.com/imprint/ . Inner Traditions: Embracing Holistic Health and Personal Growth Maria Loftus of Inner Traditions shared the independent press's commitment to holistic health, personal growth, and spiritual studies. Celebrating its 50th anniversary, Inner Traditions has seen growing demand from librarians for books in these areas, reflecting patrons' interests. Among the titles generating excitement at ALA were "The Occult Elvis," a unique biography compiled from primary sources like letters between Elvis and his friends. "The Herbal Dog," written by a canine herbalist, was also popular, offering herbal remedies for canine ailments along with an introduction to herbalism. Other well-received books included "The Fern Pharmacy," which explores modern pharmacology and indigenous practices related to ferns. Inner Traditions' extensive catalog is available through their website ( https://www.innertraditions.com/ ), major distributors like Baker & Taylor and Ingram, and directly from the publisher, with distribution by Simon & Schuster. Jessica Kingsley Publishers: Addressing Neurodiversity, Gender, and Sexuality David Corey, representing Jessica Kingsley Publishers (JKP), highlighted the publisher's strong presence in the fields of autism and neurodiversity, as well as their growing focus on gender and sexuality. Corey expressed his excitement to be at ALA, recognizing librarians as "crusaders" for literature and the foundational role of words in civilization. At the conference, JKP showcased titles like "The Everybody Book," an award-winning work on asexuality from the American Association of Sex Educators, Counselors and Therapists, and a follow-up book on consent by the same author. A forthcoming title, "How Porn Is Not Sex Ed," aims to demystify and unpack the complexities of pornography for teens in an honest, straightforward, and healthy way, promoting good mental health development. JKP's diverse offerings for kids, teens, parents, and teachers can be explored at: https://us.jkp.com/ . Orca Book Publishers: Championing Diversity and Accessibility Andrew Wooldridge of Orca Book Publishers highlighted the Canadian independent publisher's commitment to diverse representation and accessible reading. Celebrating 40+ years, Orca boasts 90 new titles this year aimed at young readers. They are particularly noted for their high-interest, low-readability (Hi-Lo) format, appealing to middle school and teen readers. Librarians at ALA showed significant interest in Orca's "Meg and Greg" books, a decodable series designed for shared reading, particularly beneficial for children with dyslexia or other language-based learning difficulties. Their "Orca Rapid Read" series, including "Orca Soundings," "Currents," "New York," and "Anchor," continues to be popular for its hi-low, appealing to middle school and teen readers. Wooldridge emphasized the importance of authentic voices and diverse perspectives in their books, noting their publication of "Pride Puppy," a title that garnered attention as part of a Supreme Court case related to freedom of expression. In addition to their robust publishing program, Orca, https://www.orcabook.com/ , also provides distribution services for other publishers across Canada and the United States. Schiffer Publishing: An Eclectic Mix of Niche Interests and Children's Delight Frederick Glasser from Schiffer Publishing highlighted the independent publisher's diverse catalog, spanning craft and hobby books, gardening, cooking, lifestyle, pop culture, mind-body-spirit titles, and children's books. Celebrating 50 years, Schiffer is based in Atglen, Pennsylvania. Librarians at ALA showed interest across their range. Children's titles like “Maze Play” by a "wonderful illustrator" featuring themed mazes and a beautifully rhymed bedtime story by acclaimed poet "Father Goose" were popular. "Calm Down, Coco," a book about a cat learning to relax with the help of a mouse, resonated for its message of taking deep breaths and practicing yoga poses. In pop culture, a definitive biography of Richard Manuel, lead singer of The Band, garnered attention, as did a forthcoming book on "Star Trek" that delves into the scientific accuracy Gene Roddenberry aimed for. Another highly discussed title was "Comic Book Apocalypse," which explores the "wild, fun stuff" and often racy, violent themes of comic books before the Comics Code in the 1950s. Schiffer's wide-ranging collection ensures "something for everyone," and their full catalog can be found at https://schifferbooks.com/ . Tiger Tales: Engaging Young Readers with Humorous and Heartfelt Stories Barb Knight, Sales Director for Tiger Tales, emphasized the publisher's focus on creating engaging and imaginative books for young readers up to ten years old. Their catalog spans various formats, including hardcover picture books, durable board books with interactive elements, and their "360 Degrees" nonfiction imprint. Librarians at ALA were particularly drawn to their hardcover picture books, especially "Hank Goes Honk" and "Hank Meets Frank," as well as newer titles like "The Bear Who Wanted to Dance" and "Our Tree." Knight noted that these books are ideal for storytime in libraries, with their "read aloud" appeal. Anti-hero characters like Hank, who struggles to be on his best behavior, and humorous, big-personality characters such as "Snarky Sharky" and "Dodo from Gogo" were especially popular. These titles feature bright, bold illustrations and laugh-out-loud stories, making them perfect additions to children's library shelves. Librarians can find out more through their favorite wholesalers, the Tiger Tales website ( https://tigertalesbooks.com/ ), and review journals. Trio House Press: A Haven for Poetry and More Kris Bigalk of Trio House Press, a non-profit literary publisher, shared their expanded focus beyond poetry to include nonfiction. Established in 2012 and now based in Minneapolis, Trio House Press champions diverse voices and aims to inspire connection and understanding through literature. At ALA, Bigalk highlighted five new titles popular with librarians: "Mele,” “Rooms for the Dead," "The Grace of Black Mothers," "Splice," and "Girl in a Forest" (out in October). "Mele" and "The Grace of Black Mothers" generated significant buzz due to recent positive reviews in PW and Booklist . Trio House Press also promotes virtual readings and offers a variety of poetry and nonfiction works from both new and established authors. Explore their catalog and events at https://www.triohousepress.org/ . Reported by Printed Word Reviews Share this article Copy link LinkedIn Facebook X (Twitter) WhatsApp Pinterest

Book review of Thank God For The Sinners by Eric Magun . ISBN: < Back Thank God For The Sinners Eric Magun Mystery, Crime Thriller, punk, chaos, debauchery, exploitation, corruption, addiction, violence, memory, redemption, darkness J. Boylston & Co, Brick Tower , Ibooks Share this review: Copy link Facebook LinkedIn X (Twitter) WhatsApp Pinterest In a chaotic world of corruption and personal demons, an American businessman in China grapples with the aftermath of a dead girl in his hotel room, forcing him to confront his dark past and the choices that led him to this moment of desperation. A Raw and Unflinching Look at Sin and Redemption "Thank God For The Sinners," the debut novel from Eric Magun, is not a story for the faint of heart. It’s a gritty, dark descent into the chaotic life of Rick Price, an American businessman whose involvement in the Chinese furniture manufacturing industry is far more complex and dangerous than it appears on the surface. Weaving together elements of punk rock culture, international business intrigue, and deep-seated personal trauma, Magun delivers a narrative that is as unsettling as it is compelling. The novel is a character study at its core. We meet Rick Price as a hardened man navigating the morally ambiguous world of Chinese commerce in the early 2000s, a setting that provides a perfect backdrop for the corruption he's both a part of and a victim to. His story is not linear; it’s a mosaic of his present-day struggles in Dongguan City and fragmented flashbacks to his traumatic childhood on Long Island in the 1970s. This dual timeline effectively reveals the roots of his self-destructive behavior, making his journey feel both tragic and, at times, understandable. The plot kicks off with a shocking event—a seemingly innocent massage that ends in a girl's tragic death. This incident is the catalyst, plunging Rick into a desperate scramble for survival, revealing the full extent of his tangled relationships with figures like his powerful and coercive business partner, Shu Shu, and his mysterious CIA handler, Mei Mei. As Rick becomes more entangled in the corrupt practices, the stakes are continually raised, culminating in the violent climax involving his friend and associate, Buddy. The tension is palpable, and Magun's unflinching style keeps the reader on edge. While the plot is a thrilling ride, the novel's true power lies in its thematic depth. Magun masterfully explores the intricate link between corruption and morality, forcing us to consider how far a person will go to survive. The themes of trauma and redemption are central to Rick’s character, as he battles nightmares and sleep paralysis—the lingering ghosts of his past—in his quest for a fresh start. The resolution, set against the backdrop of an earthquake in the Philippines, provides a moment of sobering reflection, suggesting that while the road to redemption is fraught with peril, survival is ultimately about facing one's inner demons. "Thank God For The Sinners" is a provoking read for anyone who appreciates a raw, unfiltered narrative and a complex character study. It's a book for readers with an interest in punk culture, international business, and the dark, gritty side of human nature. This novel challenges you to confront uncomfortable truths while offering glimpses of the enduring hope for redemption, making it a memorable debut. Previous Next

< Back Building a Community and Brand Around Your Writing June 18, 2025 at 6:44:38 AM Engagement is key. With an ever increasing number of digital tools available, writers must actively self-promote. The “Building a Community and Brand Around Your Writing” panel at Tech Theatre on March 11th offered invaluable insights into the evolving digital landscape. Five industry experts’ discussion explored how writers could leverage emerging platforms and refine their strategies on established ones to build a sustainable and authentic audience. Matt Trinetti and Parul Bavishi, co-founders of the London Writers' Salon, emphasized the power of community building through platforms like Discord and Substack. Their success with the daily Writers' Hour, gathering over 20,000 writers, showcases the effectiveness of creating dedicated spaces for engagement and collaboration. Emma Gannon, a Sunday Times bestselling author, highlighted the significance of Substack newsletters, exemplified by her own popular “The Hyphen.” She stressed the importance of fostering direct connections with readers through curated content and exclusive insights. Her experience also showed how hosting retreats can create a physical community. Georgia Henry, a digital marketing expert and founder of The Pitch Agency, shed light on the transformative impact of BookTok. Her work with major publishers underscored the platform's potential for reaching new audiences and driving book sales. She advocated for an “audience-first” approach, tailoring content to resonate with specific demographics. Rosie Kellett, author of "In For Dinner," demonstrated how personal storytelling and culinary expertise can converge to build a thriving online community. Her journey, from sharing recipes and communal living experiences on social media to launching a bestselling Substack newsletter, illustrates the power of authenticity and relatability. Her upcoming North American publication signifies the reach digital connection can achieve. The panel collectively emphasized the need for writers to embrace adaptability and experimentation. They highlighted the importance of choosing platforms that align with their personal brand and content, fostering genuine connections, and staying abreast of emerging trends. As writers navigate the complexities of modern marketing, these insights offer a roadmap for building a loyal readership. Reported by Printed Word Reviews Share this article Copy link LinkedIn Facebook X (Twitter) WhatsApp Pinterest

< Back For Racial Healing: #11 ‘A Deeper Revelation of The Filiopietism-Damaged Heritage Axis’ October 11, 2026 at 5:45:00 AM William Faulkner, one of our country’s most ardent and foremost practitioners of filiopietism as an art form, could still see the nefarious impact of filiopietism on historical injustice and violence. In the novel, Intruder In The Dust, Faulkner has one of his characters recognize this connection between filiopietism and damaged heritage, “No man can cause more grief than that one clinging blindly to the vices of his ancestors.” At an earlier point in this ‘For Racial Healing’ series, we considered briefly the phenomenon of the filiopietism-damaged heritage axis. While we’ve learned that both filiopietism and damaged heritage together constitute a legacy of racism, we should also learn, based on the trauma and long-term agony felt by Blacks in America, that filiopietism is a creator with damaged heritage its result. Though related, like two unredeemed, untamed cousins, filiopietism and damaged heritage are nonetheless separable and distinguishable. While a filiopietism-damaged heritage axis derives mainly from the protection and the inoculation provided by filiopietism that allows damaged heritage to conduct its prejudicial forms, including violence, under the aegis of a valued and beloved past and historical family views, customs, and traditions, the two features are surely separable when especially analyzed on an actual, resultant basis. Since racism’s damaged heritage is a direct result of filiopietism, we know that the greatest challenge to racial healing today between Blacks and whites remains the residual commitment by a sizeable number of white Americans to filiopietism, that devotion to history, past familial and white behavior, customs, tradition, and similar motifs. The two families in which I was born and reared – the Birches and Johnsons – are separable and distinguishable for the roles that each played in development of the racist milieu surrounding my youth. When I look back through time, I am struck by the translucent alignment of the two families, respectively representing damaged heritage in one and filiopietism in the other. My maternal grandfather’s family and antecedents – the Birches, dependent economically over several generations on agriculture – lived in or near the rural community of Tillar in Desha County, Arkansas, immediately south of Phillips County, site of the Elaine Race Massacre. While filiopietism could and did flourish with the Birches, other factors, including an almost innate comfort with violence, would cause this family to demonstrate qualities that made the Birches more accustomed to and motivated by damaged heritage. This example is not unique in the American experience for white families. Many whites have too often relied directly on the behavior and ideas of previous generations to inflict serious and occasional, brutal harm on Blacks, including additionally multiple forms of economic and social subjugation. For a family like the Birches, even though they left southeast Arkansas of Desha County and migrated to the city of Little Rock, Arkansas by the 1940s – some twenty years following the Elaine Race Massacre, it was, during my childhood, still closely tied in an exhibited attitude that could lead to damaged heritage. Although violence is, of course, not the only manifestation and tincture of damaged heritage, it is the most repugnant and fearsome, for it can decide outcomes if allowed to go unchecked and released to take all matters and situations into its own hands. Such was the case when the white, federal soldiers, harnessed with machine guns, were brought to Phillips County to “restore order” during the Elaine Race Massacre and chose to execute the mission through an uncompromised usage of mostly unfettered assaults against Black Americans. It is hard to imagine that racism in America would have been as thorough and long-lasting in the absence of a high degree of ferocity exercised by whites against Blacks. The Birches demonstrated unmistakable features of damaged heritage, such as overt and implied violence, present in the nature of the Birch clan with Lonnie’s participation in the Elaine Race Massacre and his membership in the Ku Klux Klan being indicative of the family’s predilection toward physicality and racist braggadocio. In fact, it was normal practice for the Birches to employ or suggest destructive behavior in the face of challenges and opportunities that undoubtedly added exposure, distinction, and saltiness to the family’s personality, as appreciated by many outside this clan. Physical actions and responses to threats, affronts, or potential attacks were regularly savored and revisited in story and occasional humor for Birch family gatherings during my youth. The narratives also carried a valuable “moral” lesson, as imparted to Birch progenies, that a show of fierceness could protect a person – man or woman, boy or girl – against something far worse later. These were family traits expected to be carried forward with a complete absence of remorse. The aggressiveness, present in family histories, would be sprinkled intermittently into conversations on race and on current news items about Black liberation when the Birch clan met with family members participating in ritualistic conversations and occasional diatribes about Blacks. The family figured, having been encouraged in speech by an aunt or uncle, sometimes subtly, sometimes not, to be at the tip of the spear if and when it became necessary, according to some Birch voice, to set Blacks in their place. The tip of the spear. Would racial violence climb out of such scenes, or were the words simply meant to convey a continuation of a way to see, to believe, to behave? Were the words meant to construct a context to build a way to conduct one’s life, a way to treat others who were Black and different? At the same time, filiopietism can come at a person from a variety of angles and sources, a factor that makes filiopietism the most sinister and lethal weapon when it comes to race as it provides cover and shelter through familial love, loyalty, honor, emulation, etc., to damaged heritage. Moreover, notwithstanding its capability to lead one to commit unspeakable, racial sins, filiopietism is unhappily supported and granted authenticity by codified, limited, biblical scripture: honor your father and mother and, by inference, your grandparents and even those who preceded them. Ancient Greek and Roman families took it an additional step – without consideration of Judeo-Christian scripture – by formally worshipping past family members as gods. We white Americans have been relieved of much guilt for racist views by looking at the history of our ancestors and our past for justification. In my case, while the Birches brought the “tip of the spear” violence, mentality, and personality of damaged heritage to racism, the Johnsons, my paternal family members, enjoyed a different kind of respect and retained intellectual surety and historical concurrence with different forms of filiopietism that regularly contributed to and helped to solidify racism. The Johnsons were decidedly a different breed from the Birches. Notwithstanding the continuous flirtation and attachment the Birches had with physical force and its related avatars, the Johnsons, as far as I was concerned, were a more dangerous lot. One generally always knew the current and prospective intentions and plans of the Birches, but the Johnsons, as I perceived them, including information I gleaned from tales and family histories, carried more stealth; this group of relatives seemed clever, surprising, manipulative, political, intellectual, and more subtle. They were big readers. In fact, I owe Sister (my father’s sister, but my aunt, who never married), for she spent endless hours with me during my youth discussing poets and poetry, grammar, and writing. I’ve never known anyone who had a stronger allegiance to ancestors and the past than Sister did. Her association with former family figures was mythological. For example, she would habitually go to the closet before retiring and touch the clothing she had saved from both her father and brother (my father), leading to a short, one-sided conversation with both of them before bidding the departed men good night. As further evidence of her commitment to her own, individualized version of filiopietism, one of Sister’s principal projects consisted of her writing of a Johnson genealogy; in some cases, she tracked individuals back to a time well before the Civil War, using her own intellectual tools many years in advance of services now available on the internet. Relatedly, my paternal grandmother and Sister spent an inordinate amount of time at Johnson graves, making sure there was no weed invasion and the tombstones weren’t soiled. The priorities dealing with the dead led to the presumption that the past always had a way of being better than the present, and that acknowledgment needed to be honored. Mostly, the homage couldn’t be real unless it were formed in the spoken word, a special meal, or an invitation to family members or old friends – only to those who already understood and obeyed a measure of the respect and emulation due. And after the most immediate and unsuspecting soul showed a commitment to the same pledge and behavior, words were routinely unnecessary. In the latter part of his farming career, my paternal grandfather (John Maxie Johnson), relying extensively on Black labor, owned 1,600 acres of land with much of it arable for cultivation a few miles west of Monticello, Arkansas near the hamlet of Wilmar. Notwithstanding their propensity for filiopietism, the Johnsons didn’t talk as much as the Birches did about race or racial matters, which left the impression that these subjects didn’t mean as much to the Johnsons, though they depended even more than the Birches on Blacks to handle most aspects of cotton or other crops and duties for the family. My mother inherited, at the death of my father, a farm of 380 acres near other Johnson land holdings, and she too depended heavily on Black labor for the same reasons. I can still recall the terrible conditions the Blacks bore on our farm, living in porous shacks and using well water and an outdoor toilet. A prime relationship continued between the Johnsons and filiopietism, conducive enough for Blacks to be employed at minimal compensation and minimal accommodations in various positions for John Maxie Johnson at his home, farms, and the local railroad depot in Wilmar, which he also managed. Blacks were subjected to the prevailing toil in order to allow the Johnsons to enjoy their hallowed standards and advantages, but the Johnsons would remain quiet about Blacks, unlike the Birches. I’ve often wondered how John Maxie Johnson consciously thought about the tide of racism that normally percolated around him in Drew County, Arkansas. On the one hand, he apparently continued to benefit himself and his family by relying, during much of the first half of the 20th century, on the multi-generational practice of taking unfair advantage of Black labor. On the other hand, he apparently withdrew from participation in verbal diatribes, supportive of Black subjugation. Thus, since this grandfather set the decorum for other Johnsons, I never heard any comments about racial violence or intimidations against Blacks from the two generations of Johnsons that preceded me. The silence about racism and racial subjugation emanating from the Johnsons has always intrigued me, especially in contrast to the Birches. I eventually recognized, however, that this silence about racism and racial subjugation, which ran counter to the family’s actual practices, made their hidden views conveniently obtuse, if not impervious. The silence about these subjects had been so loud that it created an inability to hear above the noise of the racism that the Johnsons had put in place. No one, especially in the family, dared to invade with inquiry or opposition to the benefitted way of life. If we live with unrelenting racism, it is impossible to discern the beginning, end, or middle of it all, for it has this consuming relevance and nature day after day; we see and experience it everywhere, and there is no relief. It took my living apart from it, from its size, its catastrophe, its fraud, flatness and indignity, its traps and exactitude and inexactitude, the inability to give its components accurate names, and the terror for both culprit and victim. Only in abandonment, whether near or far, can one break apart the elements, identifiable and separated, of white subjugation of Blacks. While we know it is right when I say that filiopietism and damaged heritage have relied upon each other for centuries of chaos, we must then scramble to put ourselves out of the content, righting the process that leads to discovery and possible cure. And yet, we, in truth, can’t stand away fully from filiopietism and damaged heritage. If we are to address them, we must know them like thunder and lightning, sun and moon, start and finish. It took both the Birch and Johnson families to frame this view, where the bludgeon of damaged heritage is strengthened by articulation deep inside as filiopietism reveals its malevolent intelligence, schemes, and hollowness. Next Time: Structure Versus Attitude by J. Chester Johnson Share this article Copy link LinkedIn Facebook X (Twitter) WhatsApp Pinterest

< Back Independent Press Award® Announces 2026 Winners: A Global Celebration of Independent Excellence February 2, 2026 at 7:04:45 AM The Independent Press Award (IPA), one of the world’s most prestigious honors for independent authors, publishers, and illustrators, has officially unveiled its 2026 winners. The announcement marks a landmark year for the program, showcasing a diverse array of literary talent from across the globe. In a year characterized by high-caliber submissions, the 2026 awards saw significant participation from well-established voices and publishing houses spanning North America to Asia. Winning entries hailed from countries including Australia, Canada, Germany, India, Japan, Singapore, the United Arab Emirates, and the United Kingdom, among others. The 2026 winners list features a mix of veteran authors and rising stars. Notable names recognized this year include Brad Feld, Judith Briles, Tony Jeton Selimi, Michael Pronko, Jack Fritscher, PhD, Nate Regier, PhD, Lawrence Kane & Kris Wilder, Greg Broadmore, and Miriam Udel. These authors were selected by a panel of experts from a pool of thousands of entries. The excellence of the independent sector was further highlighted by the inclusion of prestigious publishing houses such as Princeton University Press, Johns Hopkins University Press, Forbes Books, She Writes Press, and the University of California Press. “The 2026 Independent Press Award recipients reflect the incredible momentum within the independent sector,” said Gabrielle Olczak, IPA President and Award Sponsor. “Independent voices are no longer just an alternative; they are leading the way in literary innovation. By highlighting these winners, we are celebrating a global community that refuses to be sidelined and continues to set new benchmarks for excellence.” The winners and distinguished favorites will be officially honored at the annual Awards Dinner on April 25th . The event is part of BookCAMP 2026 , a premier three-day trade show and conference for the publishing industry held in the New York metro area from April 24–26, https://www.ipabookcamp.com/tickets . The gala dinner has already drawn international attention, with over 200 attendees from four continents already registered. The VIP guest list includes prominent figures and newly discovered talent such as Claudia Daher; Sara Fanfarillo; Angela Greenman; Maria Ingstrom; Christopher Johnston; David Knoll; Diana Louise Webb; Laura Muirhead; Ivona Olofsson; Sieglinde C. Othmer; Michaela Riley; Paris Rosemont; Joe Sarkic; Tony Jeton Selimi; JoAnne M Spiller; Dr. Stacker; Nancy W.; and Xue Mo . A limited number of tickets remain available for those wishing to network with the industry’s top independent talent. For those interested in viewing the full list of this year's honorees or purchasing tickets for the upcoming ceremony, please visit: 2026 Winners: independentpressaward.com/2026-winners 2026 Distinguished Favorites: independentpressaward.com/2026-favorites Awards Dinner Tickets: independentpressaward.com/awardsdinner About the Independent Press Award The Independent Press Award (IPA) honors excellence in the independent publishing community. Open to self-published authors, small presses, and university presses worldwide, the IPA celebrates the spirit of independent literary achievement every spring. Beyond the Awards The Independent Press Award is part of a broader ecosystem dedicated to supporting the "indie" literary world. This includes: The Children’s Bookworm Award: A competition specifically highlighting high-quality storytelling in the children’s sector, https://www.childrensbookwormaward.com/ NYC Big Book Award: A fall competition open to all publishers, including the "Big Five." https://www.nycbigbookaward.com/ The GAB TALKS: A popular podcast hosted by Gabby Olczak that provides an inside look at the creative processes of award-winning authors, covering everything from humanitarian issues to art history. https://www.independentpressaward.com/thegabtalks Reported by Printed Word Reviews Share this article Copy link LinkedIn Facebook X (Twitter) WhatsApp Pinterest

< Back From the Gobi Desert to the Frankfurt Book Fair: Writer Xuemo Exhibits for the Eighth Consecutive Year, Moving many Readers with His Stories October 21, 2026 at 5:55:00 AM From a Remote Village in Western China to the World: Xuemo Bridges Cultures Through Storytelling, Bringing Readers into a World They Have Never Experienced—the Heart of Rural Western China Acclaimed novelist Xuemo marked his eighth consecutive year at the Frankfurt Book Fair , drawing international attention to a body of work that bridges cultures through storytelling, human experience, and the universal search for love, wisdom, and inner transformation. At the 2026 Frankfurt Book fair, Xuemo's works were presented at a dedicated exhibition stand, featuring the newly released English edition of The Undying Diamond Heart , award-winning Into the Desert , White Tiger Pass , Wild Fox Ridge , Eternal Love , and Curses of the Kingdom of Xixia , alongside Spanish-language editions of selected works. The exhibition attracted publishers and visitors from diverse linguistic and cultural backgrounds, including English-, German-, Spanish-, Hindi-, and Arabic-speaking markets. Several new and award-winning titles sold out during the event. Xuemo's sustained presence at one of the world's leading publishing events reflects growing international interest in literature that offers more than cultural representation. His stories invite readers to engage with complex human emotions, personal struggles, spiritual inquiry, and the search for meaning—subjects that resonate across national and linguistic boundaries. A highlight of this year's book fair was an in-depth conversation on October 7 between Xuemo and Ted Olczak, president and publisher of Printed Word Reviews, focusing on The Undying Diamond Heart , Xuemo's creative philosophy, and the cross-cultural significance of literature. Discussing the influence of his upbringing in Gansu, in northwestern China, Xuemo explained that the region's vast landscapes, depth, and solitude have profoundly shaped his literary voice. Olczak observed that Eternal Love and The Undying Diamond Heart demonstrate what he described as "Visionary Realism"—a narrative approach grounded in lived reality while exploring the deeper possibilities of the spiritual world. The Undying Diamond Heart follows the life journey of Khyungpo Naljior, tracing a path through hardship, setbacks, self-discovery, and spiritual exploration. Asked whether suffering is necessary for spiritual awakening, Xuemo responded, "Suffering can lead to transcendence." The exchange opened a broader discussion about how literature can help readers reconsider adversity and discover inner strength amid uncertainty. The protagonist's journey through Nepal and India also prompted discussion of literature's ability to connect different geographical regions, cultural traditions, and spiritual perspectives. For Xuemo, this connective power lies in the values at the heart of his writing. "My works advocate love and wisdom, and they are also vehicles for love and wisdom," Xuemo said, emphasizing that readers from different countries, ethnic backgrounds, and belief systems can find common ground in stories that speak to love, goodness, and beauty. Reflecting on Xuemo's international presence, Ted Olczak highlighted the broader significance of his work: "From western China to the world, Xuemo's works connect not only publishing markets across countries, but also shared reflections on life, wisdom, love, and personal growth. In an era of deepening global cultural exchange, his literary narratives are building bridges of mutual understanding between cultures." Xuemo's eighth consecutive appearance at Frankfurt Book Fair underscores a central principle of his international journey: literature can cross borders not by setting cultures against one another, but by telling compelling stories that allow readers to recognize their shared humanity. As his works continue to reach international audiences through translation and publishing partnerships, Xuemo offers readers around the world a distinctive literary window into western China—and an invitation to explore questions of life that transcend cultural boundaries. Reported by Printed Word Reviews Share this article Copy link LinkedIn Facebook X (Twitter) WhatsApp Pinterest

< Back 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. Reported by Printed Word Reviews Share this article Copy link LinkedIn Facebook X (Twitter) WhatsApp Pinterest