Book review of Transitioning Your Federal Resume to Private Industry: Are You at the Fork of the Road? by Kathryn Troutman . ISBN: < Back Transitioning Your Federal Resume to Private Industry: Are You at the Fork of the Road? Kathryn Troutman Reference Resume Place Share this review: Copy link Facebook LinkedIn X (Twitter) WhatsApp Pinterest This book serves as an indispensable resource, expertly bridging the gap between the often-complex federal resume format and the concise, results-driven expectations of private industry hiring managers. Kathryn Troutman's latest guide, "Transitioning Your Federal Resume to Private Industry: Are You at the Fork of the Road?", arrives at a crucial time for many federal employees contemplating a shift to the private sector. This book serves as an indispensable resource, expertly bridging the gap between the often-complex federal resume format and the concise, results-driven expectations of private industry hiring managers. One of the book's most significant strengths is its practical, eight-step methodology. Troutman meticulously breaks down the daunting task of converting a typically lengthy federal resume into a streamlined, impactful two-page private industry document. The process is clear and actionable, covering everything from updating your existing federal resume to identifying target job announcements and strategically highlighting accomplishments that resonate with private sector employers. A standout feature is the forward-thinking integration of artificial intelligence tools, such as ChatGPT and Microsoft Copilot. Troutman demonstrates how these technologies can be leveraged to efficiently extract crucial keywords from job descriptions, a vital step in optimizing resumes for Applicant Tracking Systems (ATS) and human reviewers alike. This modern approach ensures that job seekers are equipped with contemporary strategies for today's competitive market. The book truly shines through its seven comprehensive case studies. Each example provides a "before and after" snapshot, showcasing an original federal resume, the target private industry job announcement, an AI keyword analysis, the transformed two-page private industry resume, a tailored one-page cover letter, and an updated LinkedIn profile summary. These real-world illustrations offer invaluable insights and practical templates for readers to adapt to their own situations. Kathryn Troutman's reputation as the "Federal Resume Guru" is well-earned, and her expertise permeates every page. With over 30 years of experience in federal resume writing and career coaching, she possesses a deep understanding of both federal and private sector hiring landscapes. Her ability to demystify the transition process and empower job seekers with actionable advice is evident throughout the book. "Transitioning Your Federal Resume to Private Industry" is an essential read for any federal employee considering or actively pursuing a career in the private sector. It is equally valuable for resume writers and career coaches who assist clients in navigating this specific career transition. In conclusion, this book is a timely, thorough, and highly practical guide. Troutman's methodical approach, combined with her embrace of modern tools and extensive experience, makes "Transitioning Your Federal Resume to Private Industry" a must-have for anyone at the "fork in the road" of their federal career. It provides the clarity and tools needed to confidently step into the private sector. Previous Next

Book review of The Pits: Life Literally Bit Me in the Ass by Cheryl Edwards . ISBN: < Back The Pits: Life Literally Bit Me in the Ass Cheryl Edwards Memoir, trauma, emotional distress, dog attack, healing Huber House Press LLC Share this review: Copy link Facebook LinkedIn X (Twitter) WhatsApp Pinterest After surviving a brutal dog attack, a resilient woman navigates the harrowing journey of recovery, grappling with trauma, guilt, and the complexities of friendship while striving to reclaim her life and love for animals. Cheryl Edwards's memoir, “The Pits: Life Literally Bit Me in the Ass,” is not for the faint of heart, yet it is utterly essential reading for anyone seeking an unflinching look at the aftermath of severe trauma. What begins as a terrifying, visceral account of a vicious attack by three pit bulls quickly evolves into a surprisingly witty and deeply honest exploration of physical survival, psychological breakdown, and the long, non-linear path to emotional reclamation. The narrative immediately begins with the trauma, detailing the intense pain and frantic struggle to escape her friend’s dogs. Edwards recounts the immediate aftermath: the desperate plea for help from neighbors, the whirlwind of the emergency room, and the initial treatments for life-altering injuries. This section alone serves as a harrowing lesson in survival, highlighting the sheer tenacity required to endure a devastating event. “The Pits” focuses on the recovery process, which dominates the book. Edwards is candid about the physical ordeal—the necessary but agonizing procedures, the reliance on her husband for simple daily tasks, and the slow, frustrating progress of physical therapy. She credits her pre-attack fitness with her survival, adding a layer of poignant irony to the physical setbacks she must now overcome. However, it is the emotional and psychological fallout that provides the memoir’s most profound insights. Edwards grapples with immense guilt and the societal pressure to assign blame, often feeling compelled to defend herself and the dogs' owner while silently wrestling with crushing anxiety and Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD). Her journey through therapy, specifically her experience with Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT), is rendered with thoughtful detail, offering readers a realistic glimpse into the hard work of trauma recovery. She expertly contrasts the woman she was—an adventurous dog-lover—with the person she becomes, a survivor forced to reconcile her deep connection with animals with an instinctual, paralyzing fear. Edwards's writing style is accessible, underpinned by a raw, Gen X sense of humor that acts as both a shield and a lifeline. This wit is crucial; it prevents the heavy subject matter from becoming unbearable, allowing moments of dark comedy to illuminate the absurdity of her new reality. Her honesty—about the anger, the resentment, and the exhaustion—is what makes this memoir stand out from more sanitized narratives of overcoming adversity. “The Pits” is a testament to the fact that healing is messy, imperfect, and non-conclusive. The author doesn't promise a return to "normal," but rather an acceptance of a "new normal." This book is highly recommended for anyone who has experienced trauma, for family and friends seeking to understand the inner lives of survivors, and for professionals in the trauma support field. Previous Next

Do you know someone who is making an impact? At Printed Word Reviews, we want to honor the innovators, advocates, and trailblazers who are transforming the publishing landscape for the better. If you know someone making a significant impact—whether through diverse storytelling, industry reform, or creative leadership—now is the time to give them the recognition they deserve. Nominate a Printed Word Reviews ChangeMaker today and help us celebrate the voices driving our industry forward. Do you know someone or yourself who is making an impact? At Printed Word Reviews, we want to honor the innovators, advocates, and trailblazers who are transforming the publishing landscape for the better. If you or someone you know is making a significant impact—whether through diverse storytelling, industry reform, or creative leadership—now is the time to give them the recognition they deserve. Nominate a Printed Word Reviews ChangeMaker today and help us celebrate the voices driving our industry forward. NOMINATE a mover & shaker to be recognized: Complete the form to nominate someone who deserves to be recognized for their work in the publishing industry. Nominate your favorite editorial assistant, editor, literary agent, publicist/ publicity, designer, digital marketing manager, social media, blogger, publisher, sales & marketing, special sales, finance, legal, etc. or yourself! We want to know the people making a difference. Each nominee will receive a recognition in the BookCAMP magazine. A recognition ceremony is planned for all nominees during BookCAMP 2027 (NO ENTRY FEE required for the ceremony.) BookCAMP by PWR

Ted Olczak is the president of Printed Word Reviews, and manages the marketing for the Independent Press Award and the NYC Big Book Award. Under the same names, he is the magazine publisher of the awards, and launched a quarterly magazine BookCAMP, which addresses authors and publishers' challenges of book publishing. Olczak is a career-long publishing professional, Master's Degree in Marketing Management in Book and Magazine Publishing from New York University. ABOUT Background Ted Olczak is the president of Printed Word Reviews, a monthly that highlights books, authors and reviews. He publishes the quarterly magazine BookCAMP, which addresses authors and publishers' challenges of book publishing. Olczak is a career-long publishing professional, and earned a Master's Degree in Marketing Management in Book and Magazine Publishing from New York University. Olczak started in the 90's working with book & magazine publishing, and has personally worked with thousands of books, and hundreds of publishers and authors on how to position their book and create successful marketing plans including: Penguin Random House; Simon & Schuster; Readers Digest; Scholastic; Inner Traditions; Macmillan; St. Martin's Press; Weldon Owen; Workman; Chelsea Green; Abbeville (art books); American Express Publishing; Berrett-Koehler (Nonfiction); Charlesbridge (childrens); Chronicle Books; SOHO Publishing (Crime/Mystery); Candlewick (childrens); Dark Horse Comics; Harvard Business Press; Journalstone (Horror); Kensington Books (Young Adult/ Romance); New Harbinger (Psychology/Mental Health); North Atlantic Books (MBS/Cook/lifestyle); Sterling (Publishing arm of Barnes & Noble); Parragon; Osprey (Military); Vertical Inc. (Manga/Lit); Oceanview (Mystery); Viz Media (Manga); etc. His experience includes Independent Book Publishers Association, Independent Press Award, NYC Big Book Award; BookCAMP magazine; Publishers Weekly; National Business/Lifestyle Magazines (FORTUNE, Money, Delta, United, and 14 others); helped New York Magazine create its sister visitor publication IN-New York Magazine; Publisher of New York City Weddingpages for four years, created playbill and newsstand products and later sold business; managed News Communications Tribco's newspaper sales department with over a dozen representatives. Forecasting, budgeting, excellent sales, marketing and event sales track history. Motivated by and interested in "the challenge" & building businesses to succeed. Proud Member of professional organizations including: A note from the publisher Ever since I can remember, I have been searching for stories. The thrill of finding a new narrative—in a comic, a novel, or a real-life event—never fades. When friends and acquaintances started asking me for book advice, I knew exactly what I wanted to do: help others find that next perfect read. But good books start with good ideas, and those authors and publishers making those books. I want to help authors and publishers publish better by providing resources and practical information they find useful. Then for them to find their readers. My recommendations are honest and objective and are meant to help you find exactly what you’re looking for. I’m here to guide you through the myriad of books, and through the publishing process. Let’s publish better and get lost in a good book together! Ted Olczak, Publisher Printed Word Reviews / BookCAMP magazine Ted@PrintedWordReviews.com Feel free to connect with me: https://www.linkedin.com/in/ted-olczak-64a1386/ https://meetings.hubspot.com/tolczak My book recommendations make it into Readers Digest to New York City Times Square Billboards. Ted presented at IPNE conference in February, is a partner member of The Alliance Independent Authors, and sits on the Rights Committee and the Metadata Committee for BISG. https://www.bisg.org/member-directory/ted-ted-printed-word-reviews “You can't wait for inspiration; you have to go after it with a club" —Jack London

Book review of Enigma Forced by Breakfield and Burkey . ISBN: 978-1946858771 < Back Enigma Forced Breakfield and Burkey Audiobook / Thriller ICABOD Press Share this review: Copy link Facebook LinkedIn X (Twitter) WhatsApp Pinterest In a race against time, a determined team of investigators must unravel a complex human trafficking operation while navigating the treacherous world of cryptocurrency and cartel violence to rescue the victims before it's too late. Enigma Forced In a race against time, a determined team of investigators must unravel a complex human trafficking operation while navigating the treacherous world of cryptocurrency and cartel violence to rescue the victims before it's too late. “Enigma Forced” is a technothriller/crime suspense that delves into the dark world of human trafficking, blending elements of crime, technology, and suspense. Ideal for readers who enjoy fast-paced narratives with intricate plots and a focus on contemporary issues. The story unfolds across various locations, including the U.S.-Mexico border, Puerto Rico, and Greece, set in the present day. The conflict begins with Toby and Miguel transporting human trafficking victims, leading to Toby's murder and the discovery of the victims by police. Gracie enlists her brother JJ and his team to investigate the incident. Rodrigo and Mateo are the antagonists who plan to use cryptocurrency to evade detection. As the story progresses, the investigation intensifies as JJ's team uncovers the financial mechanisms behind the trafficking operation. They track digital transactions and fake identities used to launder money. Julian, part of the trafficking ring, cunningly manipulates victims like Sophia and Elena, weaving a web of lies and deceit while plotting to expand their operations. Brayson's Capture and Rescue highlights the dangerous and complex nature of their mission. The climax is the team successfully rescuing Judith, Xiamara, Sophia, and Elena from Julian's clutches, using a deep fake application to deceive him. However, Julian and his bodyguard escape with significant funds, setting the stage for future confrontations. The book concludes with a sense of accomplishment but also the recognition that their fight against human trafficking is far from over. Previous Next

Book review of The Case Against Jasper by Clifton Wilcox . ISBN: < Back The Case Against Jasper Clifton Wilcox justice, community, truth, investigation, accident, prejudice, transformation Windward Publishing 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 EveryLibrary Announces Lineup of 24 Live Panels for Banned Books Week 2026 October 1, 2026 at 11:17:48 AM National library advocacy group EveryLibrary has unveiled its official programming schedule for Banned Books Week 2026, launching a four-day virtual panel series streaming live from October 5 to October 8. The event, hosted on EveryLibrary Live via YouTube and Facebook Live, will feature 24 sessions with over 40 authors, creators, scholars, and civil rights advocates focused on literary censorship, free expression, and community access to diverse stories. “The 2026 Banned Books Week series is something we are incredibly proud of because it brings together every part of the reading ecosystem. From authors and creators to publishers and policymakers, it is a wonderful celebration of books and the right to read,” said John Chrastka, Executive Director, EveryLibrary. " At a moment when access to stories and ideas is being challenged across the country, these conversations remind us why books matter and why the relationships between writers, publishers, libraries, and readers are so important." Chrastka expressed. We are deeply grateful to every author, publisher, partner, and moderator who has helped make this extraordinary week possible. The four-day broadcast schedule will feature discussions spanning multiple genres and topics: Monday, Oct. 5: Mark Vonnegut kicks off the series with a tribute to his father Kurt Vonnegut’s anti-censorship legacy, followed by five more panels, including YA novelist Patricia McCormick ( Sold , I Am Malala ) and author Adam Nelson, who explores his debut novel Huckleberry Jim and the legacy of Huckleberry Finn . Tuesday, Oct. 6: Graphic memoirists MariNaomi and Steven Prouse discuss creative freedom as members of Authors Against Book Bans. Then, legal scholars John A. Jenkins and Michael J. Gerhardt examine constitutional history, executive power, and public access to information. Wednesday, Oct. 7: Author Anthony Aycock details Island Trees v. Pico —the landmark Supreme Court decision on school book bans—while creators H.A. ( The Chromatic Fantasy ) and Keezy Young ( Sunflowers ) lead a discussion on queer identity and representation in comics. Thursday, Oct. 8: Highlights include discussions with authors Alex Sanchez, Varian Johnson, Darcie Little Badger, and representatives from Amnesty International, concluding with a preview of 2027 anti-censorship initiatives. EveryLibrary is a national 501(c)(4) political action committee (PAC) for libraries in the United States. Unlike traditional educational foundations, EveryLibrary focuses directly on voter advocacy, political strategy, and fighting anti-library legislation or municipal funding cuts across local, state, and national levels. The virtual series is supported by a coalition of major publishing houses and advocacy organizations, including Penguin Random House, Simon & Schuster, Hachette Book Group, Bloomsbury, the Kurt Vonnegut Estate, and Authors Against Book Bans. All broadcasts will be free to access live, with recorded sessions made available on demand following each stream for educators, book clubs, and local libraries. See the website for additional information. Reported by Printed Word Reviews Share this article Copy link LinkedIn Facebook X (Twitter) WhatsApp Pinterest

Book review of Holiday Spirit Book 2: Destroy All Monsters! by John DeGuire . ISBN: 979-8990870932 < Back Holiday Spirit Book 2: Destroy All Monsters! John DeGuire Werewolf, monsters, urban fantasy, revenge, psychological John DeGuire Share this review: Copy link Facebook LinkedIn X (Twitter) WhatsApp Pinterest A werewolf fights to save her husband from a fanatical militia while navigating a world where monsters are hunted and friendships are tested. “Holiday Spirit Book 2: Destroy All Monsters!” is a monster mash genre-defying sequel that pivots from classic gothic horror to an international thriller. The atmospheric dread of Paris and London combined with the feel of an action movie, DeGuire creates a landscape where the “monsters” are often the most human characters on the page. A blend of urban fantasy, science fiction, and drama, DeGuire reimagines the icons. Seeing Dracula as a vulnerable husband and Aoife as a fierce protector turns these legendary figures into relatable protagonists. The inclusion of Saul Frankenstein, acting as the group’s chronicler, adds a meta-layered perspective on what it means to be an outsider. The story follows the gothic antiheroes, Aoife the werewolf, her husband Count Dracula, best friend Saul Frankenstein, and the invisible Dr. Ralph Ellison, as they are captured by the mad Dr. Moreau. Maria, a vengeful gypsy witch, seeks retribution against the group for pain inflicted on her family. The narrative cleverly explores the ethical rot of scientific progress and religious fanaticism, pointing out ‘real monsters.’ Through the Church of Latter Day Monster Hunters and the skeptical medical establishment, the book poses the cutting question: “Is a werewolf more dangerous than a man with a scalpel or a radical ideology?” The characters, each grappling with their own struggles and the blurred lines between humanity and monstrosity, must escape their captors and survive the plot twists and challenges that test their understanding of redemption and purpose. The cinematic sets are grand and imaginative. From Kong’s tragic stand at the Eiffel Tower to the chaotic collision of gothic vengeance and high society at Paris Fashion Week, the pacing is relentless. DeGuire balances a high-speed speedboat chase on the Niagara River with the psychological tension of a Parisian psychiatric ward. Despite the body count and the “creature feature” elements, the ending is surprisingly poignant. The themes of resilience and the birth of a new generation offer a glimmer of hope amidst the wreckage of betrayal and death. “Destroy All Monsters!” is a bold, dark, and witty ride. It is for fans who want their classic horror tropes dismantled and rebuilt into something faster, bloodier, and more meaningful. Ideal readers are enthusiasts of classic monster tales reimagined with modern twists and fans of dark fantasy and horror. Previous Next

< Back Library of Congress Publishes Two New Educational History Books June 23, 2026 at 5:00:00 AM The Library of Congress, the world’s largest library, published two new books this month about some of the most influential parts of the history of the United States, as the nation’s 250th birthday approaches in July. The books, announced last week, are titled The American Revolution and Immigration and Migration in US History . They’re both part of the Library’s “ Discover and Learn with the Library ” series, an educational book series designed to make primary sources of different parts of history accessible to students and educators. Other titles include Invention and Innovation , which explores “a host of life-changing inventions over the centuries and the visionaries behind them,” and The Civil Rights Movement . “Published during the historic 250th anniversary year of the signing of the Declaration of Independence, both books provide timely resources to help both learners and educators explore the unparalleled collections of the Library of Congress to understand different aspects of U.S. history,” the Library wrote in a release announcing the books . The books are designed to give students primary sources, rather than secondary sources or historical analysis. “They include full-color facsimiles of primary sources along with source citations, information about the sources’ origins, teaching strategies and guides to additional online resources,” the Library stated. The American Revolution , for example, includes an excerpt of a spy ring code book, an early version of the Bill of Rights, and a pay voucher for a Black soldier in the Continental Army. Immigration and Migration offers copies of classified advertisements seeking formerly enslaved family members after the Civil War and oral history interviews with immigrants in the early 20th century. “‘Discover and Learn with the Library’ reframes research as an engaging process that feeds curiosity, creativity, and change, while preparing students for the future by developing their critical thinking skills,” the American Library Association, which published the books jointly with the Library of Congress, said in a press release . “The goal of the series is to help educators identify the most compelling and relevant items for their students from the Library’s extensive collections, help them integrate primary source materials into their instruction, and provide them the flexibility to customize the materials to meet the unique needs of their students.” Printed Word Reviews / Reported by Jules Roscoe Share this article Copy link LinkedIn Facebook X (Twitter) WhatsApp Pinterest

Book review of Symphony of Self: Compose Your Life by Ann M. Mracek . ISBN: 979-8-9951014-1-3 < Back Symphony of Self: Compose Your Life Ann M. Mracek Personal Growth, self-help, nonfiction, memoir Ann Mracek Publishing Share this review: Copy link Facebook LinkedIn X (Twitter) WhatsApp Pinterest A composer and memoirist turns the principles of music such as frequency, rhythm, harmony, dissonance, and tempo into a guide for healing trauma, transforming relationships, and consciously composing a life. In the crowded landscape of self-actualization literature, many authors struggle to find a fresh lens through which to view the messy process of human healing. In “Symphony of Self: Compose Your Life,” Ann M. Mracek finds her answer in the orchestra pit. Eschewing the dry, clinical tone of academic psychology for a reflective, “popular” style, Mracek offers a compelling argument: your life is not a problem to be solved, but a score to be composed. Mracek’s unique approach lies in its unified musical architecture. While other “life-design” books often feel like a grab-bag of disconnected habits, Mracek uses music theory as a rigorous, cohesive metaphor for existence. The book is structured into “movements” that mirror the stages of personal evolution. Mracek begins with the foundational idea of vibration and frequency. She argues that we are constantly “tuning” ourselves to our environments and companions. This isn’t just “good vibes” pseudoscience; it is a practical framework for understanding how we synchronize with (or are drained by) the people and places around us. One of the book’s most poignant sections deals with silence. Mracek treats silence as the necessary condition for hearing one’s “inner melody,” linking meditation and quietude to the recovery of an imagination often stifled by modern distraction. Perhaps the most insightful chapters deal with Key Signatures and Syncopation. Mracek likens childhood trauma and inherited beliefs to a key signature, a set of “sharps and flats” that color every note we play. By identifying these “off-beat” patterns of painful memory (syncopation), she provides readers with the tools to rename past events as experiences rather than identities. Mracek does not shy away from the darker movements of life. Her exploration of dissonance is particularly sophisticated. Rather than viewing conflict as a failure, she distinguishes between “productive challenge” and chronic, soul-crushing friction. Drawing on her personal history, including memories of maternal cruelty and the physical toll of injury, she demonstrates how disruption, when handled with the intent of a composer, can become the primary source of reinvention. What elevates “Symphony of Self" above generic inspirational fare is Mracek’s willingness to use her own life as the primary case study. As an author, professional composer and dance leader, she speaks with the authority of someone who knows how much discipline it takes to make a performance look effortless. Her stories of family history and professional mastery ground the abstract concepts of “rhythm” and “tempo” in lived reality. Symphony of Self succeeds because it shifts the goal from perfection to authorship. Mracek isn’t promising that you will never play a wrong note; she is teaching you how to read the whole score. By the final “Coda,” the reader is left with the empowering realization that while we cannot always control the music life hands us, we are always the ones holding the baton. A harmonious blend of memoir and manual, this is an essential read for anyone ready to stop reacting to the loudest impulse and start conducting a life of coherence. Previous Next

< Back Publishing Groups Denounce Attacks on Dutch Bookstore July 30, 2026 at 6:03:00 AM A Dutch bookstore dedicated to selling anti-establishment books celebrating free political thought was violently attacked two times in the past month, according to a statement by the European and International Bookstore Federation (EIBF). Fugitive Books is an independent bookseller in the Netherlands, with a primarily online presence but a pop-up bookshop as well in Groningen. The shop curates books and magazines that go against traditional establishment values, including a number of works about Palestine, nationalism, anarchy, and race. Its homepage features a photo of two people, faces masked by cloth, in a close embrace as fire and smoke billows behind them. “We’re on the run,” the page states. “Sometimes quite literally from state authorities. But always from those forces that seek to control and define us. In some cases by necessity, but always out of love. We want no part in this world. So we run. And we’d love for you to run with us.” According to the EIBF, which issued the statement on July 16, the bookstore was the “target of two violent incidents involving physical and verbal abuse” in the first two weeks of July. “The attacks were directly linked to its curation of books and the values it openly represents,” the statement reads. “These violent incidents represent yet another attack on booksellers’ right to freedom of expression. Bookshops are a cornerstone of democratic societies, fostering democratic dialogue by providing spaces where diverse ideas, perspectives, and worldviews can be shared, challenged, and debated respectfully.” Fugitive Books did not immediately respond to a request for comment. The Federation of European Publishers and the International Publishers Association also issued a joint statement condemning the attacks. “The freedom to read is a vital part of a trinity of freedoms including the freedom of expression and the freedom to publish that unites authors, publishers, booksellers and librarians,” wrote Jessica Sänger, Chair of the IPA’s Freedom to Publish Committee. Anne Bergman-Tahon, director of the Federation of European Publishers, also wrote that, “The apocryphal quote attributed to Voltaire, ‘I may not agree with what you have to say, but I will defend to the death your right to say it’, has been a beacon of freedom of expression and must remain a key principle for all democrats. Bookshops must be spaces of freedom of expression, places where you can debate, exchange, learn from each other.” Printed Word Reviews / Reported by Jules Roscoe Share this article Copy link LinkedIn Facebook X (Twitter) WhatsApp Pinterest

Learn more about Janet Skrzypek < Back Janet Skrzypek Increasing Global Awareness through Language Education: Janet Skrzypek ***ALA Author signing*** At the front of a classroom, Janet Skrzypek gathers the rapt attention of all her students with the sound of a book opening, a page turning, and her gentle voice reading both Spanish and English in her children’s books. Language learning can be an intimidating process for young students, but Skrzypek makes it grounded, engaging, and simple. Award-winning independent author-editor and educator Skrzypek brings together storytelling, language learning, and cultural understanding in her bilingual children’s books. Her acclaimed title, The Llama That Wanted to Spit on Me / La Llama que Quería Escupirme , was recognized as the 2026 Independent Press Award Winner in the Children’s-Bilingual category, https://www.independentpressaward.com/2026-winners/9798992041514 , earning praise for its captivating storytelling promoting respect for animals and their habitats. Her writing aims to entertain young readers while expanding their vocabulary and enhancing their reading comprehension in both English and Spanish. ***Book Signing at ALA Chicago, Booth 4722*** Skrzypek is uniquely equipped to tell these stories with her variety of educational backgrounds. She received her Master’s in Child Studies from Linköping University in Sweden, her Bachelor’s in Human Development and Family Studies from American Public University in the United States, and an ELE ( Español como Lengua Extranjera / Spanish as a Foreign Language) certification from Ricardo Palma University in Peru. Additionally, she is fluent in English, French, and Spanish, and she teaches French and Spanish at Saint Peter School (K-8th) . “As a French and Spanish teacher, I discovered my path to authorship in the classroom, where I also found my voice,” Skrzypek says. “My students’ enthusiasm for my stories, inspired by my multicultural experiences, travels, and small moments that reveal big truths, motivated me to write bilingual English-Spanish stories.” Since childhood, she has experienced the transformative power of books firsthand—the power language has to open doors for people. As a result, she became an active member and contributor to the American Council on the Teaching of Foreign Languages (ACTFL) and Secretary of the ACTFL Teaching and Learning of Culture Special Interest Group. She has donated her books to public schools and cultural centers in remote areas of Peru and contributed to second language learning efforts around the world. Skrzypek is a global-minded educator with a singular goal: to uplift every student she encounters. The Llama That Wanted to Spit on Me / La Llama que Quería Escupirme is not her only title which has inspired readers. Her other titles include The Dragonfly Visit / La Visita de la Libélula , The Man Who Traded Chicken Eggs for Bottles / El Señor que Intercambiaba Huevos de Pollo por Botellas , and Henrietta the Little Hen and the Duck’s Eggs / La Gallinita Enriqueta y los Huevos de la Pata . Skrzypek works as both an author and an educator to foster empathy and curiosity for the world while encouraging student passion for reading and language. Her books invite children to imagine a sustainable world built on kindness and shared responsibility one story at a time. Share this article Facebook X (Twitter) WhatsApp LinkedIn Pinterest Copy link