< Back Maverick Announces New YA Roster from Mad Cave Studios June 17, 2026 at 5:54:46 AM Maverick, the young adult imprint of Mad Cave Studios, has officially announced its upcoming Summer 2026 releases, anchored by two major graphic novel titles that promise to captivate while offering distinct cultural commentaries across the media industry, celebrity fame, and family ties: a comprehensive investigative journalism collection and an endearing contemporary romance. The Full Scoop Collection Leading the upcoming rollout is The Full Scoop Collection (ISBN: 978-1545827307) , a massive 400+ page edition compiling the first four volumes, scheduled for release on July 29, 2026. Written by Richard Ashley Hamilton—the award-winning author of How to Train Your Dragon: Race to the Edge and Tales of Arcadia —the graphic novel introduces Sophie Cooper, the newest intern at Miami’s struggling WMIA 7 news station. Hoping to use newsroom resources to clear her father’s name from a framed embezzlement charge, Sophie’s investigation instead unearths a bizarre local underbelly involving crashed flying saucers, a time-defying 1960s bunker, and more. The title features artwork by Pablo Andrés ( Starfall ), colors by Simon Robins and Rebecca Good, and lettering by Dave Lanphear and Justin Birch. Just Another Summer – Vol. 1 Complementing this investigative powerhouse is Just Another Summer – Vol. 1 (ISBN: 978-1545836002) , a heartfelt romantic comedy from Star Trek Voyager: Homecoming and Monster High writers Tilly Bridges and Susan Bridges. Triggered by a scandal that derails their A-list television careers, teen sisters Hayley and Becky Huxley must not only navigate the fleeting nature of public adoration and perception, but also the enduring affection of their familial bond. Against the high-stakes backdrop of Hollywood, this queer and trans-friendly narrative deftly tackles the dizzying complexities of social status and sisterhood beneath the superficial glare of the spotlight. The graphic novel is set for release on August 4, 2026, featuring artwork by AoiG. ( Lacrime di Cioccolata ) and Giulia Rinaldo, colors by Valentina Briski, and lettering by Chas! Pangburn. Reported by Jessica Shih Share this article Copy link LinkedIn Facebook X (Twitter) WhatsApp Pinterest

Book review of SHRED! Running and Being by Kevin Carollo . ISBN: < Back SHRED! Running and Being Kevin Carollo Mind, Body, Spirit North Dakota State University Press Share this review: Copy link Facebook LinkedIn X (Twitter) WhatsApp Pinterest In the midst of a pandemic and personal loss, Carollo navigates the complexities of life through the transformative power of running, reflecting on connection, resilience, and the search for meaning. Finding Pace in a Pandemic is a deeply personal exploration of running, writing, and navigating modern life, particularly during the COVID-19 pandemic. Carollo invites readers into his daily routines, from caring for his cat Gracie to battling anxiety dreams, revealing how running provides solace and a way to process the world's complexities. The pandemic's impact is palpable, as Carollo describes the challenges of maintaining a running streak during lockdown and the importance of movement for mental well-being. He interweaves poignant tributes to his mother and reflections on loss, including his father's passing and his partner's mother's dementia diagnosis, demonstrating how these personal struggles connect to broader themes of running and being. Descriptions of his runs immerse the reader in the physical and mental experience, while poetic reflections capture the essence of his journey. He also delves into social and political issues like climate change and economic inequality, revealing how they intersect with his personal life. Through past running experiences and contemplations of the future, the author emphasizes the cyclical nature of life's journey and the importance of movement, connection, and self-discovery. Ultimately, the book argues that running and writing are essential practices for finding purpose and navigating life's inherent challenges. It offers a perspective on the interconnectedness of life, loss, and the pursuit of meaning, making it a read for anyone interested in personal narratives exploring physical activity, mental health, and contemporary issues. Previous Next

< Back Marc DeBevoise Named OverDrive CEO as Founder Steve Potash Steps Into Chairman Role June 23, 2026 at 7:30:27 AM OverDrive, the digital publishing giant that powers e-book and audiobook access for libraries and schools worldwide, is entering a new era. The company announced Tuesday that veteran media and technology executive Marc DeBevoise has been appointed Chief Executive Officer. DeBevoise succeeds company founder Steve Potash, who is transitioning to Chairman of the Board after 40 years leading the organization. The leadership change represents a carefully planned succession strategy designed to scale OverDrive's digital platform and accelerate its international footprint. Potash, who founded the company four decades ago, successfully guided OverDrive from the early days of digital content experimentation into a global infrastructure mainstay. Today, the platform serves educational and public institutions in more than 115 countries. DeBevoise is well-equipped for the expansion push, bringing a heavyweight corporate resume to the chief executive suite. Before joining OverDrive as President, where he worked directly alongside Potash to map out the company's future, DeBevoise served as the CEO of Brightcove, Chief Digital Officer of Paramount, and CEO of CBS Interactive. The transition has earned strong backing from OverDrive’s primary institutional investors. Richard Sarnoff, Chairman of Media for KKR Americas Private Equity, emphasized that DeBevoise’s operational experience makes him the right fit for the company's next chapter. "Steve built an extraordinary organization — a mission-driven company with true global impact — and Marc is the ideal leader to write its next chapter," Sarnoff said. "Marc's vision, energy, and operational depth give us every confidence that his leadership will not only augment its success as a business but also heighten its outstanding record of service." For Potash, the move marks a significant personal milestone, though not an exit from the company he built from scratch. "Founding and building OverDrive has been the most rewarding journey of my career," Potash said, adding that the company is uniquely positioned for evolution. As Chairman, Potash intends to maintain an active role in supporting DeBevoise's executive team while continuing to champion the libraries and schools at the core of OverDrive's mission. Moving forward, DeBevoise’s mandate will focus on expanding global content access, growing the platform’s infrastructure, and capturing a broader audience of digital readers and learners. "OverDrive has extraordinary reach, incredible momentum, and an enduring mission — and I’m thrilled to lead this company forward," DeBevoise said. Reported by Printed Word Reviews Share this article Copy link LinkedIn Facebook X (Twitter) WhatsApp Pinterest

Book review of Making Safety Happen: The Roadmap to a Safe, Productive & Profitable Business by Brian L. Fielkow . ISBN: 979-8868531910 < Back Making Safety Happen: The Roadmap to a Safe, Productive & Profitable Business Brian L. Fielkow workplace safety, leadership, risk management, compliance, incident prevention MCP Books Share this review: Copy link Facebook LinkedIn X (Twitter) WhatsApp Pinterest A hard-won safety leader transforms a growing company by making workplace safety a core value, proving that disciplined leadership, employee ownership, and process can save lives, strengthen culture, and boost business performance. In the traditional corporate hierarchy, safety is often relegated to a back-office compliance function—a world of yellow vests, binders of regulations, and the grim tracking of "days since last accident." Brian L. Fielkow’s “Making Safety Happen” shatters this siloed approach. He presents safety not as a "priority," but as a nonnegotiable value that serves as the bedrock for operational reliability and enterprise value. Fielkow begins by challenging the language we use. He argues that terms like "accident" or "acceptable injury rates" are passive and dangerous, often masking preventable risks. By reframing "high-risk" work as "high-consequence" work, he shifts focus from the probability of an event to the gravity of its impact. One of the book’s most stinging critiques targets "false confidence." Fielkow illustrates how "normalization of deviance," the gradual process where small shortcuts become standard practice, creates a veneer of safety during periods of growth, only to lead to catastrophic failure. To Fielkow, zero incidents is not a statistical goal; it’s a leadership philosophy. The book excels at making safety a "C-Suite" conversation. Fielkow traces the ripples of safety failures far beyond insurance premiums and legal claims. He connects the dots between a poor safety record to a toxic cycle of eroded morale and high turnover, noting that top-tier talent rarely stays in environments where their well-being isn't valued. Furthermore, he highlights the external stakes of customer trust and bidding eligibility, where a single major incident can permanently disqualify a firm from lucrative contracts. Ultimately, Fielkow argues that safety is a primary driver of enterprise valuation. Moving from the frontline to the boardroom, the book provides a roadmap for directors and executives. Fielkow argues that safety must be integrated into Enterprise Risk Management (ERM). He urges leaders to move away from "lagging metrics" toward "leading indicators." Central to this is his advocacy for a "Just Culture." Drawing on high-stakes examples, Fielkow distinguishes between human error, which necessitates a system redesign; at-risk behavior, which requires coaching; and reckless behavior, which demands strict accountability. By fostering an environment of psychological safety, where employees feel empowered to report near-misses without fear of retribution, organizations can proactively fix flawed processes before they result in human injury. Fielkow knows that while people make safety possible, process makes it sustainable. He provides guidance on designing usable procedures that prevent "practical drift" and the dangers of self-induced pressure. Through transparency, mentoring, and even involving families in the safety conversation, Fielkow shows how to transform safety from a "management instruction" into a shared cultural commitment. “Making Safety Happen” is accessible. It avoids academic jargon in favor of cross-industry case studies, ranging from the turnaround at Alcoa to the failures at Deepwater Horizon and Boar’s Head. “Making Safety Happen” is essential reading for anyone in a high-consequence environment. Fielkow translates safety into a leadership discipline. He proves that protecting people isn't just the right thing to do, it's the smartest way to run a profitable, enduring business. Previous Next

Book review of Tell Me That You Love Me by David Rogers . ISBN: < Back Tell Me That You Love Me David Rogers New Adult, Contemporary Romance, Trauma, Relationships Independently Published Share this review: Copy link Facebook LinkedIn X (Twitter) WhatsApp Pinterest In 1974, a young woman named Connie Roberts moves to New York City seeking a fresh start, but her journey through love, loss, and self-discovery reveals the haunting shadows of her past and the complexities of her relationships. In a literary landscape often dominated by high-octane plots, this book stands out as a character-driven narrative that resonates long after the final page. Set against the vivid backdrop of 1970s New York City, the novel is a poignant personal exploration of a woman’s journey from past trauma to future hope. The story introduces us to Connie Roberts, a protagonist who arrives in New York City in 1974, seeking not just a change of scenery but a fresh start for her very soul. We quickly learn of her painful past, marked by a strained relationship with her critical mother, Jean Lucille Smith, and the tragic death of her brother, Jack. These unresolved traumas are the ghosts that Connie carries with her, shaping her every move, from her new friendships with Helaine Katz to her ill-fated romance with Darin West. The narrative excels in its unflinching disturbing portrayal of Connie’s relationship with Darin. What begins as a whirlwind romance quickly sours, transforming into a toxic cycle of emotional abuse and neglect. The author charts this descent, from Darin’s subtle rejections to a violent assault, making Connie's struggle and her eventual decision to leave both heartbreaking and empowering. It's a raw look at how past hurts can make a person vulnerable to new ones. The heart of the book lies in Connie's journey toward healing and closure. With the guidance of her therapist, Dr. Martin Beck, and counselor, Adam Coffey, Connie confronts the emotional baggage she's carried for years. A powerful moment of catharsis arrives with her reconnection with her mother, now suffering from dementia. This reunion provides a sense of peace, freeing Connie from the anger and resentment that had long defined their relationship. Her attempts at finding solace in other connections, like the transactional relationship with Jarrod or the ultimately disappointing one with Beau, highlight the difficult, often non-linear path of healing. Ultimately, this is a story about finding strength within oneself. The book concludes not with a perfect, storybook ending, but with a realistic and hopeful one. Connie learns to value her own well-being and, with the support of her friends and her own newfound resilience, sets out to build a life on her own terms. The reflective and introspective style of the writing draws the reader deep into Connie's emotional landscape, making her triumphs feel like our own. It's an emotional read that captures the complexities of human connections, the enduring power of resilience, and the liberation that comes with self-discovery. Previous Next

< Back BookTok Creator Opens Indie Author Only Bookstore June 22, 2026 at 8:17:30 AM Inspired and funded by her “BookTok” community on social media, an online bookstore owner has opened a brick-and-mortar bookstore dedicated to supporting indie authors. Katelyn Matusky opened her bookstore, The Book Nook , in Warren, OH, earlier this month. But just a few years ago, she didn’t work anywhere near the publishing space. As a respiratory therapist and single mom with four kids at home, she said books had always rather been a personal escape for her than a business idea. “ Books were always my way out,” Matusky told Printed Word Reviews in a phone call. “At the end of the night, to shut out the world, I would always just read to empty my brain.” So, two years ago, she started a TikTok account, KMChaosBookReads , where she would post reviews and thoughts about the books she was reading. She focused heavily on indie authors. “ I’ve always wanted to support small authors, and I like that self-published books are not changed at all,” she said. “Trad-published books, the publishers can change whatever they want about the books when they publish them, so it’s not what the author authentically wrote. You don’t get as much of the emotion and the rawness of the books in traditionally published books as you do with indie books.” As she continued posting her ideas, more people followed her, and more authors reached out to her to ask if she would review their work. Matusky soon grew her following to nearly 15,000 people as a “BookTok” creator. BookTok is a popular subsect of social media, where authors promote new work and readers give reviews and book recommendations. It’s a driving force in the resurgence of reading as a hobby for young people, and as of last year, it had garnered 370 billion views worldwide. That community support was a big part of Matusky’s decision to open an indie-author-only online bookstore in March of this year. But the operation quickly outgrew her home. “I don’t tell any indie author no,” she said. “Because of my following on TikTok, I had so many authors who wanted to support me, which is fabulous, that I needed a storefront.” Matusky opened her physical store just three months later. She said her biggest challenge, like with many small businesses, had been funding—but her online community had come through there, too. “ My only help was through my GoFundMe from my TikTok supporters and Facebook supporters,” she said. “Literally, authors and readers are who helped me with money to get my store up and running.” Matusky hopes to eventually turn The Book Nook into a coffee-shop-bookstore combo, but right now, she’s busy laying the groundwork. She said she had assembled bookshelves and painted the store herself. She’s still pursuing content creation, too. She will attend an indie book convention in Cincinnati, OH, in August as an influencer, and host a book fair in the town square at home in Warren soon after. “I have found a lot of friends through [BookTok],” Matusky said. “ I’ve had local authors who I had met through BookTok, and now, we’re friends and do other stuff together. We’ve helped people get covers done for their books or audio done for their books, and it’s just such a good little community of people who have connections. I don’t even know how to explain it. It’s wonderful.” Printed Word Reviews / Reported by Jules Roscoe Share this article Copy link LinkedIn Facebook X (Twitter) WhatsApp Pinterest

Book review of Missing, A Modern Art Masterpiece in a French Medieval Village by Roberta Samuels . ISBN: < Back Missing, A Modern Art Masterpiece in a French Medieval Village Roberta Samuels Mystery / Detective Red Penguin Books Share this review: Copy link Facebook LinkedIn X (Twitter) WhatsApp Pinterest In a tale that intertwines the lives of an avant-garde artist fleeing the Nazis in 1944 and an American woman renovating a historic townhouse in modern France, both women find inspiration and resilience through art and community amidst the challenges of their respective eras. A compelling dual narrative, interweaves the struggles and triumphs of two women separated by time but connected by art and the enduring spirit of resilience. Set against the contrasting backdrops of wartime France and modern-day Montpezat de Quercy, the novel explores the power of creativity to transcend even the most challenging circumstances. The narrative alternates between Sonia Delaunay's experiences in 1944 and Barbara Waldheim's life in 2014. Sonia's story, fraught with the dangers of Nazi occupation and the loss of her husband, captures the tension and fear of wartime France. The author portrays the camaraderie among the artists hiding at the chateau in Grisolles, showcasing their determination to continue creating amidst the chaos. Sonia's artistic spirit, even in the face of unimaginable hardship, resonates. In the contemporary timeline, Barbara, an American expatriate, seeks her own fresh start in France. Her journey of renovating a 15th-century townhouse and integrating into the local community provides a counterpoint to Sonia's wartime struggles. While Barbara's challenges are different, they are no less significant. The author effectively portrays her growing connection to the village, her friendships with Laure and Pierre-Paul, and the deepening of her relationship with Sam. The discovery of the hidden basement and the missing Sonia Delaunay stained-glass window acts as a catalyst, bridging the two narratives and propelling the plot forward. The quest to authenticate and restore the window becomes a central focus, drawing Barbara and Sam into a fascinating historical mystery. The involvement of local authorities and the Ministry of Culture adds intrigue to the story. The conclusion, with the installation of the restored window in the village church and Barbara and Sam's recognition with the Légion d'honneur, provides a satisfying sense of closure. It's a testament to the enduring power of art and the importance of preserving cultural heritage. The novel ends on a note of hope, suggesting that even in the face of adversity, creativity and community can flourish. "Missing, A Modern Art Masterpiece in a French Medieval Village" is for those readers who appreciate historical fiction with a strong connection to art and culture. It's a story that celebrates resilience, the power of human connection, and the enduring legacy of artistic expression. Previous Next

< Back How The Lab Press Blends High-concept Storytelling with Collectible, Gallery-quality Design July 21, 2026 at 6:39:19 AM In an era when digital convenience threatens to flatten the art of reading into a uniform pixelated glow, independent speculative fiction publishers like The Lab Press prove that the physical book can still function as a desirable object of design. Looking beyond viewing books as simple story containers, President Diane Richey and Editor-in-Chief Dagen Walker approach each release as a complete visual and tactile experience, transforming every title into a beautifully crafted physical artifact designed to be held, admired, and treasured . And, at the same time, fulfill their mission to create stories that entertain while shedding light on profound truths. Fresh off a string of 2025 honors, the publisher’s reputation bolsters a trifecta of complementary pillars: award-winning cover design, Kickstarter -exclusive collector editions, and the newly launched Portable format. This multi-pronged approach encourages readers to engage in the speculative fiction genre while reinforcing the collectibility and nostalgic values of the printed book itself. Considered the “first act of storytelling” as described by Walker, at the heart of this philosophy lies exploring visual experimentation and emotional evocation at a level deeper than a mere conjuring of the literal plot illustration to capture the overarching emotional atmosphere of the narrative itself into a succinct image. For anticipated releases like Callisto and Mad Dog Morgan design work begins early in development, allowing artists to respond by depicting a visual perspective so enriched that Walker notes it “[becomes] inseparable from the identity of the work.” Collaborating with acclaimed comics illustrators such as Bill Sienkiewicz , The Lab favors covers that evoke mood over exposition, inviting readers to cross the threshold into story immersion instead of just outright summarization. This approach is particularly evident in Callisto , an adult graphic novel written by Steve Niles ( 30 Days of Night, The October Faction ) and illustrated by veteran Italian comics artist Andrea Mutti that trades equally in cosmic horror and hard-boiled crime noir. Beneath the frozen domes of Jupiter’s industrial moon, Detectives Becca Ramos and Rusty Solomon begin investigating a kidnapping, only to uncover murders tied to an ancient cult lurking beneath the fragile order of the colony. Rather than illustrate a still from the narrative, the cover art is comprehensive, illustrating the warring psychological unease and creeping dread that permeates throughout the subsequent pages. Mad Dog Morgan demands a different visual vocabulary altogether. Written by Adam Lawson ( The Exiled, Kids & Monsters, The Kill Journal ) and Brian Christgau (S ix-Gun Gorilla: Long Days of Vengeance , The Kill Journal, Hell Knight ), with artwork by Argentine comics illustrator Maxi Dall’O and colors by Patricia Delpeche ( Batman’s Detective Comics #1075 ), the graphic novel fuses independent wrestling with supernatural horror. Featuring a washed-up wrestler who stumbles into a sentient house that feeds on despair, he must discover whether years of scripted violence have prepared him to confront something truly monstrous. The resulting design embraces the gritty, larger-than-life spectacle of professional wrestling and the visceral brutality of classic horror, translating both into an image that feels as kinetic as the clashing genres within the story itself. If retail covers introduce readers to a title, Kickstarter provides The Lab Press room to push the physical object concept even further. Richey explains how although traditional distribution provides longevity and broad visibility, crowdfunding connects the publisher directly with its most dedicated audience, creating opportunities to experiment with premium materials and elaborate production techniques. For these first printings, established multidisciplinary digital designers such as Emma Price and production comics specialist John J. Hill ( DC Compact Comics line) created oversized 7.5-by-11-inch collector editions showcasing thoughtful interior layouts and custom foil-stamped slipcases. Complete with gold foil trim, these beautiful editions remain exclusive to Kickstarter, with later printings swapped to silver foil to ensure early backers receive a genuinely limited collectible rather than an endlessly reproduced premium edition. Leaning toward a more compact curation style, The Lab has introduced the Portable Edition, a smaller paperback designed to lower the barrier to entry without compromising production quality. Preserving spot gloss finishes, French flaps, and other aesthetics of a production-standard premium book cover, this $9.99 discovery format developed with Hill includes acclaimed backlist titles such as the award-winning Essentials Vol. 1 . For Richey, the Portable Edition represents a broader change in how readers live with a book. Functioning not just as a carefully displayed volume on a shelf, the trimmed format becomes something that can slip into a backpack, accompany a commute, or be passed along to a friend. Paired with visually striking retail editions and Kickstarter-exclusive collector releases, the Portable line completes a publishing ecosystem in which every format serves a distinct purpose while remaining unmistakably part of The Lab Press’s identity. “Traditional retail gives a book reach, longevity and the opportunity to find readers over time,” Richey says. In turn, Walker sees the publisher’s growing catalog as something even more cohesive: “We want the shelf to feel like a small gallery of distinct worlds connected by taste, ambition, and material quality. Every title should reflect The Lab’s central idea: human moments in unhinged worlds, created with enough care that the physical book becomes part of the experience.” Like any great story, what makes The Lab Press an unputdownable publisher is its commitment to treating every book as an emotional artifact. Guided by the belief that format shapes experience, every release begins with two deceptively simple questions: What story are readers holding? And, in turn, how should that story feel in their hands? Reported by Jessica Shih Share this article Copy link LinkedIn Facebook X (Twitter) WhatsApp Pinterest

Book review of A Land Filled With Horses by Robyn Rominger . ISBN: 979-8350993929 < Back A Land Filled With Horses Robyn Rominger Memoir, True Crime, horse rescue, community involvement, genetic research Independently Published Share this review: Copy link Facebook LinkedIn X (Twitter) WhatsApp Pinterest After inheriting a neglected herd of semi-feral horses on their newly purchased ranch, a couple embarks on a transformative journey of rescue and rehabilitation, ultimately discovering the power of perseverance and community in finding new homes for the horses. Robyn Rominger’s “A Land Filled With Horses: The Yanci Ranch” is far more than a simple account of an animal rescue; it is a personal chronicle affirming the extraordinary impact of resilience, collective action, and unwavering commitment. Although short and lacking big publishing house finishes, it’s written in a highly accessible and engaging style with purpose. The nonfiction work chronicles the author's lifelong journey toward animal welfare, culminating in the unexpected, monumental task of saving hundreds of neglected horses on a remote Northern California ranch. The clear thesis is that with determination, robust community support, and a willingness to seize complex opportunities, it is possible to overcome significant challenges and achieve truly meaningful goals. Rominger's passion was fueled by an early childhood love for horses. This passion was quickly channeled into practical involvement with animals. Though she once dreamed of veterinary medicine, she found her real passion in journalism and pursued it with fervor. This professional background, rich with insights into ranching, farming, and animal husbandry, provided the essential knowledge base for the challenges she would later face. Her personal life progressed with her marriage to Bruce, a farmer, leading them to start a modest horseback-riding business—a quiet life that dramatically changed with the purchase of a new property. The heart lies in the discovery at the Yanci Ranch. Rominger writes of the 800-acre property and the shocking situation they inherited. After a partnership dissolved, the previous owner allowed his share of high-quality Appaloosas, Percherons, and sporthorses to roam free, resulting in a rapidly growing, semi-feral herd. Rominger describes the crisis of neglect: uncontrolled breeding led to overpopulation, overwhelming the fragile rangeland. The situation peaked when a devastating drought hit, drying up pasture grass and forcing the desperate, starving animals to break out, finally exposing their hidden plight to the outside world. The central act is the monumental, multi-year effort to rescue and rehome the horses. Rominger offers readers a raw, inside look at the practicalities and perils of this endeavor. She recounts the adrenaline-fueled moments of capturing the semi-wild horses, highlighting the crucial involvement of local rodeo cowboys and professional horse trainers whose specialized skills were indispensable. Amidst the chaos of the operation, the story is punctuated by moments of tender beauty, such as the birth of numerous foals. Beyond the logistical challenges, the story delves into the genetic background of these neglected animals. The author describes registering a key stallion with the American Appaloosa Association and provides a compelling explanation of the horses’ heritage. This focus on genetics is an element that elevates the work beyond a typical rescue memoir. The conclusion details the successful adoption of the remaining horses into loving families and professional training environments. Rominger also addresses the necessary, complex legal battles faced by the previous landowner, providing closure to the story of neglect. However, the lasting contribution extends to science. The Yanci Ranch horses were found to have rare genetic markers that contributed to important genetic research with human-health implications, adding an unexpected layer of significance to their rescue. Rominger reflects on the entire journey, emphasizing that the sheer scale of the challenge required not just hope, but tangible perseverance and an unwavering positive attitude. Previous Next

Book review of Bellosio: An Age of Miracles by John F Shekleton . ISBN: < Back Bellosio: An Age of Miracles John F Shekleton Sci-fi, Fantasy Mo Keijuk Press Share this review: Copy link Facebook LinkedIn X (Twitter) WhatsApp Pinterest In a world where three intelligent primate species vie for power, a young princess must navigate treachery and alliances to reclaim her throne and save her empire from impending war. John F. Shekleton’s "Bellosio: An Age of Miracles" is an epic fantasy that dives the reader in a world where destiny and divinity collide. Set on the planet Bellosio, the world-building story begins by introducing the creator "Cog" and the three intelligent primate species it has nurtured. This foundation sets the stage for a period of political turmoil, intellectual doubt, and looming threats that challenge the very fabric of their society. The narrative intertwines the journeys of several key characters. At the center is Princess Danaba, whose life is upended by an assassination attempt and a father paralyzed by grief. Forced to confront her destiny, she transforms from an uncertain heir into a fierce warrior princess. Her struggles are mirrored by Undiro, a mystical abbot who must navigate the political chaos of the capital while grappling with the potential "Great Withdrawal" of the Cog's power. The rising action is a complex dance of alliances and betrayals, as characters like the scheming Count Selwin and the enigmatic Bordor, a youth with special abilities, work to shape the empire's future. The book’s climax is a series of strategic maneuvers and intense battles that culminate in a dramatic confrontation. Danaba proves her worth on the battlefield, leading an assault to reclaim her home, while Bordor rises to a position of power, poised to lead his faction into a new era. The resolution finds Danaba, now empress, facing the daunting task of rebuilding the empire and forging new alliances. The story concludes with a sense of hope, as the characters embrace their destinies and look toward a new, unified future. Overall, "Bellosio: An Age of Miracles" is a blend of political intrigue, mystical elements, and character development. For the patient reader, this high fantasy novel is a rewarding read for those who appreciate more complex themes. Previous Next

< Back Hachette Book Group Launches Children's Reading Initiative July 30, 2026 at 5:47:35 AM Global publisher Hachette Book Group launched a new children’s reading initiative last week to combat the global decline in kids reading. The initiative is titled “Raising Readers,” and was launched both as a public service announcement and as a broader project with the involvement of over 50 collaborating book and publishing companies. “Raising Readers is Hachette’s urgent and long-term campaign to raise awareness of the decline in number of children reading for fun and encouraging everyone to make reading for enjoyment part of children’s daily lives,” the initiative’s webpage states . “This campaign aims to raise awareness that reading for fun is the single biggest predictor of a child’s future success. It impacts academic results, mental health, wealth, communication skills and ambition.” Children’s readership has broadly declined in recent years. In 2026 alone, numerous media reports have written about the decrease; the company’s press release references a June report by the U.S. Department of Education National Center for Education Statistics , which found that reading for fun among 13-year-olds has declined by nearly half since 2012. Hachette’s public service announcement, posted to the company’s YouTube page last Tuesday, encourages both kids and parents to step away from the noise of social media and immerse themselves instead into books together. In it, a young girl sits absorbed in her phone, scrolling through fast-paced text messages about social media posts. Her father comes into her room and drops off a book for her, asking her if she wants to take a break. “FYI, I’m more than a break,” a voice emanating from the book says after a beat. “I can take you on an adventure, crack you up, and inspire you. Come on, take a look.” Hachette wrote in a press release that, “Reading to a child for just 10 minutes changes their life.” The initiative includes a pledge for parents and children to commit to reading every day. Hachette encourages all members of the book industry, including its own authors, to get involved. Letters from authors who write for adults will be printed at the back of Hachette-published books to share “the importance of encouraging a child’s lifelong love of reading.” Partners of the Raising Readers project include a variety of collaborators, from national groups like PEN America, to publishers Penguin Random House and Macmillian, to major bookseller Barnes & Noble, as well as smaller organizations like the Brooklyn Book Bodega in New York City and the independent Little Blue Pigeon bookstore in Denver, Colorado. Printed Word Reviews / Reported by Jules Roscoe Share this article Copy link LinkedIn Facebook X (Twitter) WhatsApp Pinterest

Book review of Your Crystal Allies: The 12 Best Gems & Minerals for Making Money & Managing Resources, Book Three by Tracee Dunblazier . ISBN: 978-0999362358 < Back Your Crystal Allies: The 12 Best Gems & Minerals for Making Money & Managing Resources, Book Three Tracee Dunblazier Self-help: Spiritual GoTracee Publishing Share this review: Copy link Facebook LinkedIn X (Twitter) WhatsApp Pinterest In "Your Crystal Allies," Tracee Dunblazier guides readers through the transformative power of twelve specific crystals, blending scientific insights, personal anecdotes, and practical applications to enhance prosperity and resource management in their lives. "Your Crystal Allies: The 12 Best Gems and Minerals for Making Money and Managing Resources, Book 3" is a comprehensive guide for both beginners and experienced practitioners interested in the use of crystals for enhancing various aspects of life, particularly in making money and managing resources. Written by Tracee Dunblazier, the book delves into the properties and uses of twelve specific gems and minerals, providing readers with scientific information, detailed illustrations, practical applications, and personal anecdotes to help them connect with these powerful stones. The book begins with a foreword by Najah Lightfoot, who shares her personal experiences with crystals and the profound impact they have had on her life. She describes the book as a mystical journey that combines powerful imagery with channeled messages from the crystals themselves. Lightfoot highlights the practical advice Dunblazier offers, including alternative rocks for rituals and grid work, making the book accessible to those who may not have access to specific crystals. The introduction discusses the balance of life and the journey from survival to prosperity consciousness. In each chapter, Dunblazier explains how crystals can help individuals understand and manage their resources, including mental, emotional, spiritual, and physical assets. The book aims to expose readers to the perfect crystal allies to help them witness their ingrained patterns and make necessary changes. Throughout the book, Dunblazier emphasizes the importance of developing a personal relationship with each crystal. She encourages readers to spend time with their crystal allies, understanding their unique vibrations and properties. The book provides detailed instructions on how to care for and use each crystal, including cleansing methods and suggestions for incorporating crystals into daily life. Dunblazier's expert exploration of the profound connection between individuals and various crystals, focusing on their healing properties, historical significance, and personal experiences with them, makes "Your Crystal Allies" a valuable resource for anyone interested in crystal healing, whether they are beginners or experienced practitioners. Previous Next