Learn more about Kathryn Troutman < Back Kathryn Troutman Kathryn Troutman author signing at ALA Transitioning Your Federal Resume to Private Industry A Step-by-Step Guide Kathryn Troutman, Author PRINT BOOKS ARE HERE! The first-ever book on editing and re-formatting your Federal resume into a 2-page private-industry resume. 8 Steps to Prepare for Your New Career: Find and Update Your Federal Resume Find a Target Job Announcement Write Your Top Three Accomplishments Make a Keyword List with Microsoft Copilot or ChatGPT Does your Resume Match the Target Position? Create Your Two-Page or Three-Page Private Industry Resume Write Your One-Page Cover Letter Update Your LinkedIn 7 full case studies with sample Federal and private industry resumes! Kathryn Troutman founded the Resume Place, the United States’ first Federal resume writing and coaching business, more than 30 years ago. She is the pioneering designer of the Federal Resume format, created after the Federal government eliminated the SF-171 form in 1995. In January 2002, she created the Ten Steps to a Federal Job® method after 9/11 created massive interest in Federal positions to help protect America. In 2022, the National Resume Writers Association recognized Kathryn’s “significant contributions” to the field of Federal resume writing and presented her with NRWA’s Industry Hero Award. The Hero Award is given to career service providers who promote excellence, advance industry standards and are passionate about their work. With Kathryn’s team of 20 Certified Federal Resume Writers, the Resume Place now advises and writes more than 300 Federal resumes per month for military, private industry and Federal clients worldwide. Her Resume Place SES writers have written and consulted on Senior Executive Service ECQs with a 95% success rate over the last five years for the Veterans Administration and Veterans Executive Review Board. Share this article Facebook X (Twitter) WhatsApp LinkedIn Pinterest Copy link

Learn more about Jessica Bantom < Back Jessica Bantom Jessica Bantom author signing at ALA Design For Identity: How to Design Authentically for a Diverse World Design is expression, a service, an act of creativity. But if designers design for everyone, how can there be so little diversity in the profession? In this book, Jessica Bantom examines the implications of design in everyday life, from spaces and products to images and the fashion industry. Too often design concepts are based on assumptions and stereotypes that don't necessarily reflect customers' lives and values. Certain company symbols and brands, such as the image of Aunt Jemima, have stirred controversy for years but only recently has there been a corporate social awakening. The demographics of our society are changing and becoming more diverse, yet different perspectives are often ignored unless there's fallout from public backlash. Bantom explores the concept of human-centered design that taps into an understanding of identity: how people live, what's important to them, and what informs their perspectives and experiences. Engaging directly with customers to identify their challenges and working with them to test ideas and solutions is the foundation of human-centered design. It's vital for businesses to get on board and change outdated mindsets if they want to be successful. Bantom has been recognized as a Distinguished Favorite in multiple categories by both the NYC Big Book Award and Independent Press Award. Jessica Bantom is a Diversity, Equity, Inclusion & Belonging (DEIB) practitioner and workplace strategist who helps develop customized strategies for organizations that bring about transformational change. A compelling speaker, certified facilitator, and coach, Bantom seeks to enable people and organizations to reach their full potential and actualize the values of inclusion and belonging no matter what position they hold. Jessica is also active in the interior design industry as an interior design and color consultant and as a DEIB champion committed to promoting meaningful change in the profession. Bantom’s career is informed by her ongoing dedication to exploring the intersection of design and diversity. Jessica completed her master’s degree in Interior Design at Marymount University in Arlington, Virginia, and obtained her bachelor’s degree at the University of Virginia in Charlottesville, where she also completed a specialization in Design Thinking and Innovation from Darden Executive Education. At Georgetown University, Jessica received credentials as a Change Management Advanced Practitioner (CMAP), and she is certified as an Associate Diversity Coach through the CoachDiversity Institute in collaboration with the Howard University School of Business. She holds a certificate in Diversity and Inclusion from Cornell University. In addition, Jessica is certified by Veritas Culture as a Culture Facilitator and Diversity & Belonging Facilitator, and is also a Certified Change Management Professional (CCMP) and Prosci Certified Change Practitioner. A proud member of Zeta Phi Beta Sorority, Incorporated, Jessica is a long-time resident of the Washington DC area, although she will always call Philadelphia home. Share this article Facebook X (Twitter) WhatsApp LinkedIn Pinterest Copy link

< Back Digipalooza 2025 Preview: Charting the Future of Digital Libraries August 12, 2025 at 7:34:37 AM Cleveland, OH – August 12, 2025 – The digital landscape of libraries is continuously evolving, and at the forefront of this transformation is Digipalooza 2025 , OverDrive's highly anticipated bi-annual international user group conference. Kicking off today in Cleveland, Ohio, this three-day event, running from August 12-14, promises to be a vital gathering for public, school, and college librarians, as well as industry experts and thought leaders passionate about digital media and the future of library services. Hosted at the Huntington Convention Center of Cleveland and extending to OverDrive's Blue Sky Campus for select events, Digipalooza 2025 is designed around three core pillars: Innovation, Inspiration, and Collaboration. Attendees will delve into new strategies and cutting-edge technologies that are shaping digital libraries, draw inspiration from renowned figures and fellow professionals, and engage in collaborative discussions to share best practices. A major highlight of Digipalooza 2025 is its stellar lineup of keynote speakers. Attendees will have the privilege of hearing from #1 New York Times bestselling author Jason Reynolds and the immensely talented writer, narrator, and actress Julia Whelan (whose “ My Oxford Year” just released on August 1st on Netflix ) . Their insights are sure to provide a captivating and thought-provoking start to each day's proceedings. The conference programming is solid and diverse, offering sessions that address critical topics facing modern libraries. Librarians will explore effective strategies for expanding literacy through inclusive library programs, learning how to make digital content accessible and engaging for all patrons. The sessions will also cover techniques for engaging readers in a digital era, with a focus on personalized marketing and innovative content curation to maximize digital circulation. Furthermore, attendees will gain valuable knowledge in data-driven collection development, equipping them with the tools to analyze trends, manage budgets effectively, and build dynamic digital collections that truly meet community needs. Interactive discussions with Libby and Kanopy customers and industry experts will provide practical insights and foster a sense of shared learning. Beyond the insightful sessions, Digipalooza 2025 offers networking opportunities. Select librarians from thousands of public libraries, colleges, universities, and corporations across multiple countries will converge, creating a rich environment for connecting with peers, exchanging ideas, and forging invaluable professional relationships. Adding to the excitement are a series of special events designed to foster connection and celebration. The conference kicks off with a welcoming reception at OverDrive's picturesque Blue Sky Campus, providing a relaxed atmosphere for initial networking. The much-anticipated "Digipalooza Party" will take place at the iconic Rock & Roll Hall of Fame , promising an unforgettable evening of entertainment and camaraderie. The exhibit area also promises to be a bustling hub, showcasing the latest innovations from various exhibitors and sponsors within the publishing and library technology industries, offering attendees a glimpse into the tools and services that can further enhance their digital offerings. Digipalooza 2025 conference is a valuable opportunity for professional development, providing librarians with actionable insights, inspiring success stories, and practical tools to navigate and thrive in the ever-evolving digital landscape. As the event gets underway today, the library community looks forward to an enriching experience that will undoubtedly help shape the future of digital libraries worldwide. See more at: https://www.digipalooza.com/ . Printed Word Reviews is excited to be covering this event, as we look forward to our own BookCAMP 2026, www.ipaBookCAMP.com . Reported by Printed Word Reviews Share this article Copy link LinkedIn Facebook X (Twitter) WhatsApp Pinterest

< Back Quiver, don’t Quake June 3, 2026 at 5:49:03 AM [PWR note: BookCAMP 2026, https://pwrbookcamp.com/ Keynote Nadim Sadek spoke about AI as an enhancement rather than a replacement for human creativity. Here’s his take.] A reader who picks up a book a month, every month, from twenty to seventy, will finish around six hundred titles in a lifetime. Six hundred: roughly 0.0006% of every book ever published in English. We have built, between us, the most magnificent library in human history, and almost none of it will ever be opened. That is the ache at the centre of publishing today: superabundance, with too little discoverability to match it. I spoke about this in New York [BookCAMP 2026] recently, and I want to be clear about where I stand. I am not a blind apologist for artificial intelligence. Many fears around it are entirely legitimate, and we correctly pay attention to them. De-skilling, as we hand our cognitive muscles to a machine. Homogenisation, as a thousand voices flatten into one statistical average. And the soulless, generic content we have learned to call spot and dismiss as ‘slop’. These are real anxieties, and deserve our vigilance. There is, though, a more generous story available to us, and it begins with a simple observation: every human on Earth is born creative. The majority have simply never had the chance to express it. Eight billion of us, carrying feelings, philosophies, politics and art-forms that have never found their voice… What happens when they finally do? This is where I portray AI as an ally rather than a replacement. I call it Allied Intelligence: something that works alongside us, complementing our strengths and compensating for our weaknesses, while the final judgement rests uniquely with us, applying our feeling and thinking to it. The machine can draft, iterate, format and research at extraordinary speed. The human still feels, dreams, imagines, and makes meaning from experience. No model can replicate that: it is the irreducible gift we have, given our morphology and psychology. Creativity has always required craft, and craft has always been something to be mastered. Van Gogh was initially spurned. Digital photography was dismissed at its advent. The electric guitar was treated as a curiosity, shameful to many. We habituate only slowly to every new instrument, then often wonder how we ever managed without it. AI is simply the latest emancipator and ‘voice’ of our creativity, and like the others that came before it, it rewards those who treat it as a partner in dialogue, not a vending machine for answers. So I would offer publishers and authors one principle above all: Calibrated Trust. Lean on the analytical power, the vast information, the rapid pattern recognition. Then verify every fact, question every specific, and trust your own taste absolutely. You are the director. You make the final cut. Let’s count our gut-instinct, our visceral responses, and our ability to think through things as the final arbiters. The danger we should watch out most for is our own passivity: over-relying, drifting towards the generic, losing the “why” that made the work ours in the first place. The remedy is to keep feeding the machine our eccentricity, our idiosyncrasy, our stubborn particular selves. Truly, the more you give in this relationship with AI, the more you get. We stand at a threshold, with eight billion hearts ready to find their voice. The question I carried home from New York is the one I leave with you now. Will you quiver… or quake? © Nadim Sadek These thoughts and many others flowing from there are explored in my latest boo, ‘Quiver, don’t Quake – how Creativity can Embrace AI’, found on Amazon and other platforms, as paperback, e-book and audiobook. Printed Word Reviews / Reported by Nadim Sadek Share this article Copy link LinkedIn Facebook X (Twitter) WhatsApp Pinterest

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. Proud Member of professional organizations including: Printed Word Reviews EN ESPAÑOL Spanish Book Reviews: https://www.printedwordreviews.com/spanish-book-reviews Bilingual Edition in honor of Hispanic Heritage Month listed above Next Bilingual Edition November 2026, https://www.printedwordreviewsenespanol.com/ Fernando Cordero es Director Creativo con más de 28 años de experiencia en los sectores editorial, diseño gráfico, marketing, entretenimiento, eventos en vivo, giras, medios de comunicación y desarrollo de marcas. Cordero cuenta con una amplia experiencia trabajando dentro de los mercados de medios, entretenimiento y cultura de habla hispana y latina. A lo largo de su carrera, su trabajo creativo y promocional ha incluido proyectos con Sony Music, Univision, Telemundo, Spanish Broadcasting System (SBS), así como campañas nacionales e internacionales de entretenimiento con artistas como Marc Anthony, Rubén Blades, El Gran Combo de Puerto Rico y Bad Bunny, a través de 410 Grand Management. Su trayectoria también incluye trabajo con destacadas organizaciones culturales y teatrales latinas, entre ellas Pregones/Puerto Rican Traveling Theater, además de proyectos vinculados con la legendaria actriz y promotora de las artes Míriam Colón. Su carrera se ha desarrollado constantemente en la intersección entre la industria editorial, los medios hispanos y de habla hispana, la programación cultural, el entretenimiento, el branding, el marketing y la producción; experiencia que ahora aporta a las iniciativas de expansión de Printed Word Reviews dirigidas a autores, editoriales y comunidades literarias de habla hispana en Estados Unidos y a nivel internacional. Fernando Cordero is a Creative Director with more than 28 years of experience spanning across publishing, graphic design, marketing, entertainment, live events, touring, media, and brand development. Cordero brings extensive experience working within the Spanish-language and Latino media, entertainment, and cultural markets. Throughout his career, his creative and promotional work has included projects with Sony Music, Univision, Telemundo, Spanish Broadcasting System (SBS), and national and international entertainment campaigns involving artists including Marc Anthony, Rubén Blades, El Gran Combo de Puerto Rico, and Bad Bunny through 410 Grand Management. His background also includes work with prominent Latino cultural and theatrical organizations, including Pregones/Puerto Rican Traveling Theater, as well as projects associated with legendary actress and arts advocate Míriam Colón. His career has consistently operated at the intersection of publishing, Hispanic and Spanish-language media, cultural programming, entertainment, branding, marketing, and production—experience he now brings to Printed Word Reviews’ expanding initiatives serving Spanish-speaking authors, publishers, and literary communities in the United States and internationally. Ted Olczak is the president and publisher 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. Ted most recently presented at the International Dublin Writer's Festival in August 2026, and at IPNE conference in February 2026, 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 Find out more about Olczak at https://www.linkedin.com/in/ted-olczak-64a1386/ A CERCA DE PRINTED WORD REVIEWS Printed Word Reviews, https://printedwordreviews.com/ , es una publicación internacional impresa y digital dedicada a críticas literarias detalladas, completas y honestas. La publicación cubre una serie de géneros diversos, como ficción contemporánea, memorias, no ficción histórica, y poesía, cultivando una comunidad de lectores y autores apasionados y profesionales de la industria. Dirigida por Ted Olczak, un veterano de la industria editorial, Printed Word Reviews provee reseñas editoriales, entrevistas de autores y noticias acerca de la industria. Además, PWR facilita contactos para la publicación y estrategias de mercadeo para autores y editoriales independientes, universitarias y grandes, a través de su división comercial. Libros premiados de todo el mundo se destacan en cada edición de Printed Word Reviews, con Olczak a cargo de la promoción de The Independent Press Award, https://independentpressaward.com/ , y NYC Big Book Award, https://www.nycbigbookaward.com/ , que son programas prestigiosos reconocidos internacionalmente dedicados a remarcar la excelencia en el mundo editorial. Printed Word Reviews el firme compromiso de remarcar historias excepcionales. PWR obtiene las perspectivas de su comunidad acerca de los mejores libros y autores, destacando desde obras superventas hasta pequeños tesoros independientes, y sirve como una conexión fundamental entre autores brillantes y lectores apasionados. Estamos introduciendo nuestra versión en español este año, y estamos queremos presentar la revista, los autores y los libros en la Feria Internacional del Libro de Guadalajara. Printed Word Reviews se publica mensualmente y está registrada en The U.S. ISSN Center en la Library of Congress en Washington, D.C. con ISSN 3067-011X. Olczak también dirige la revista trimestral BOOKCamp Magazine, que incluye la columna Friction Factor, escrita por Brian O’Leary de Book Industry Study Group (BISG), y el evento anual de primavera. Para más información, por favor contactar a Ted Olczak por email, Ted@PrintedWordReviews.com , o llamar o mandar un mensaje al +1 (718) 938-4590. A BOUT PRINTED WORD REVIEWS Printed Word Reviews, https://printedwordreviews.com/ , is an international print and digital publication dedicated to detailed, comprehensive, and honest literary reviews. The publication covers a range of diverse genres, including contemporary fiction, memoirs, historical non-fiction, and poetry, cultivating a community of passionate readers, authors, and industry professionals. Led by Ted Olczak, a publishing industry veteran, Printed Word Reviews provides editorial reviews, author interviews, and industry news. Additionally, PWR facilitates publishing contacts and marketing strategies for independent, university, and major authors and publishers through its commercial division. Award-winning books from around the world are featured in every issue of Printed Word Reviews, with Olczak in charge of promoting The Independent Press Award, https://independentpressaward.com/ , and the NYC Big Book Award, https://www.nycbigbookaward.com/ , which are prestigious, internationally recognized programs dedicated to highlighting excellence in the publishing world. Printed Word Reviews maintains a steadfast commitment to highlighting exceptional stories. PWR gathers its community's perspectives on the best books and authors, showcasing everything from bestselling works to hidden indie gems, serving as a vital bridge between brilliant authors and passionate readers. We are launching our Spanish version this year, and we are looking to present the magazine, authors, and books at the Guadalajara International Book Fair. Printed Word Reviews is published monthly and is registered with The U.S. ISSN Center at the Library of Congress in Washington, D.C., under ISSN 3067-011X. Olczak also directs the quarterly publication BOOKCamp Magazine, which includes the column Friction Factor, written by Brian O’Leary of the Book Industry Study Group (BISG), and the annual spring event. For more information, please contact Ted Olczak by email at Ted@PrintedWordReviews.com , or call or text +1 (718) 938-4590. 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. “You can't wait for inspiration; you have to go after it with a club" —Jack London

< Back Davida Breier Appointed to Association of University Presses Board of Directors June 18, 2026 at 6:08:13 AM Hopkins Press celebrates the veteran publishing executive’s new leadership role in the scholarly publishing community. Hopkins Press has announced the appointment of Davida Breier to the Association of University Presses (AUPresses) Board of Directors. Breier, a seasoned publishing professional with more than three decades of industry experience, currently serves as the Co-Director of Sales and Marketing for the Books Division at Hopkins Press and the Director of Hopkins Fulfillment Services (HFS). Her appointment to the board as Director-at-Large recognizes her extensive expertise and long-standing dedication to advancing the reach of scholarly publishing, and is timely as AUPresses starts their annual meeting today in Washington, DC. Breier’s career spans over 30 years, during which she has become a deeply respected figure across various sectors of the book industry. Long before her tenure at Hopkins Press, she was highly active in independent and trade publishing. Her previous leadership experience includes serving on the board of the Independent Book Publishers Association. In addition to her executive achievements, Breier is a published author. Her debut novel, Sinkhole , was published by The University of New Orleans Press, giving her a well-rounded perspective on the industry as both a publisher and a creator. At Hopkins Press, Breier manages critical sales, distribution, and fulfillment initiatives. Under her leadership, HFS and the Books Division have expanded their global footprint, successfully connecting scholarly works with reader and industry audiences. Through these efforts, Breier has established herself as a leading voice for the dissemination of academic research and literature. In a statement sharing the news , Hopkins Press expressed immense pride in Breier's new appointment, noting that the board position reflects both her professional acumen and her dedication to the university press ecosystem. "Her appointment to the AUPresses Board of Directors reflects both her professional expertise and her commitment to the collaborative mission of university presses," the press shared, offering congratulations to Breier on her well-deserved new role. As a member of the AUPresses Board, Breier will help guide the association’s mission to support the work of global scholarly publishers and advocate for the vital role that university presses play in education and culture. Reported by Printed Word Reviews Share this article Copy link LinkedIn Facebook X (Twitter) WhatsApp Pinterest

< Back Facebook X (Twitter) WhatsApp LinkedIn Pinterest Copy link Share this page: PWR eNewsletter Printed Word August 15, 2025 BookCAMP by Printed Word Reviews Ted@PrintedWordReviews.com https://www.printedwordreviews.com/bookcampmagazine August 2025 - publisher/author edition Forward To Friend Connect at https://www.linkedin.com/in/ted-olczak-64a1386/ ========================================== IN THIS ISSUE Distibutors List updated Featured Book Review by Printed Word Reviews Interviews Sponsored Coming Soon ========================================= Book distribution matters. We'll be covering the differences between a book wholesaler and distributor in the next BookCAMP issue. In the meantime, the site has been updated with a list: https://www.printedwordreviews.com/distribution ========================================== Featured FALCON book review: Vatican Daughter In a world where the secrets of the Vatican threaten to unravel, a mother’s desperate quest to reclaim her daughter from the clutches of the Church's dark past forces her to confront powerful men willing to kill to protect their sins. Read more at https://www.printedwordreviews.com/bookreviews/9781803417981 ========================================== Gab Talks Interviews President of the Independent Press Award speaks with Anita Selzer, author of The Female Gaze in Art and Photography https://www.independentpressaward.com/thegabtalks/the-female-gaze-in-art-and-photography ========================================== Printed Word Reviews Interviews Ted Olczak, Publisher of Printed Word Reviews, at ALA with Kris Bigalk, https://youtu.be/5rEM7h7N9UE ========================================== Sponsored by the Independent Press Award Receive recognition! The Independent Press Award is designed to recognize excellent books published by independent authors and publishers, self-published and traditional authors in 12 main categories (100 total subcategories). Next rolling deadline is August 31st, https://www.independentpressaward.com/ , all books to be received by December 15, 2025. Winners announced every spring. NYC Big Book Award includes the Big 5 Publishing Houses and deadlines August 15th, https://www.nycbigbookaward.com/ . Winners announced October 20, 2025. Be recognized and have your winning title published in Printed Word Reviews magazine. ========================================== COMING SOON Final round of NYC Big Book Award submissions Opening of the Independent Press Award excludes the Big 5, https://independentpressaward.com September BookCAMP issue focuses on MFA programs, book distribution, and fall book shows https://www.printedwordreviews.com/bookcampmagazine ========================================== (c) 2025 Ted Olczak. Please forward and share this newsletter in its entirety. Previous Next

< Back A New Chapter for the Book Industry: Allison Belan Appointed to Lead BISG May 13, 2026 at 4:07:14 PM The Book Industry Study Group (BISG) is entering a new era of leadership. The organization, which serves as the central nervous system for publishing standards and supply chain efficiency, has announced that Allison Belan will serve as its ninth executive director. Belan steps into the role as a seasoned industry veteran, succeeding Brian O’Leary, who is retiring on June 30 after years of guiding the organization through a period of significant digital upheaval. Belan’s appointment brings a wealth of "boots-on-the-ground" experience to the BISG. She joins the group following a 22-year tenure at Duke University Press, where she most recently served as Director of Strategic Innovation and Services. During her time at Duke, Belan was responsible for technology operations and publishing infrastructure for both books and journals. Additionally, Belan led the launch of the Scholarly Publishing Collective, a critical publishing services business that manages content hosting, sales and fulfillment for nonprofit publishers. Matt Kennell, BISG Board Chair, emphasized that this technical fluency is exactly what the organization needs. "Allison joins BISG with hands-on knowledge of our core topics, including supply chain, metadata, rights management, and accessibility," Kennell noted, adding that she possesses the "C-suite credibility" required to unite stakeholders across the publishing landscape. The BISG is the quiet engine behind how books move from authors to readers. Over the last 50 years, the group has been responsible for the industry’s most vital infrastructure, including the creation of BISAC subject codes; transition to the 13-digit ISBN; and the ongoing development of modern metadata standards. Belan is taking over at a pivotal moment. She highlighted the organization’s "Book Publishing Next" initiative, an ambitious roadmap designed to modernize the book supply chain, as a primary reason for her excitement. "Its contributions are foundational to the modern supply chain," Belan said. "I’m honored and excited to be a part of the transformations that BISG will lead in the future." While Belan’s official start date is June 22, the baton-passing process is already in full swing. To ensure a smooth handover from O’Leary, the BISG has organized a series of meet-and-greets over the next several weeks, giving members a chance to engage with the new director before she formally takes the reins. As publishing grapples with new challenges in AI, global logistics, and digital accessibility, Belan’s background in strategic innovation suggests that the BISG will continue to be the steady hand guiding the industry toward its next chapter. Reported by Printed Word Reviews Share this article Copy link LinkedIn Facebook X (Twitter) WhatsApp Pinterest

Book review of The Adoption Paradox: Putting Adoption in Perspective by Jean Kelly Widner . ISBN: < Back The Adoption Paradox: Putting Adoption in Perspective Jean Kelly Widner Parenting, adoption, identity, loss, trauma, family dynamics, advocacy Ink & Quill Publishing Share this review: Copy link Facebook LinkedIn X (Twitter) WhatsApp Pinterest In "The Adoption Paradox," Jean Kelly Widner unravels the complex realities of adoption, revealing its emotional, psychological, and historical impacts on adoptees, birth parents, and adoptive families, while advocating for ethical practices and greater understanding within the adoption community. In "The Adoption Paradox," Jean Kelly Widner offers a compassionate look into the complex world of adoption. The book is a comprehensive exploration, balancing historical context, psychological insights, and, most importantly, the deeply personal stories of those whose lives have been shaped by adoption. Widner’s work challenges the often-idealized view of adoption, revealing its inherent dualities and the lifelong emotional impacts on adoptees, birth parents, and adoptive families. The book begins with Widner’s own poignant adoptee story, which serves as a powerful entry point into the broader conversation. She openly shares the paradoxes of her own life, from the loving security provided by her adoptive parents to the underlying struggles within her family. This personal foundation gives the book a raw authenticity, setting the stage for a narrative that is both academic and deeply human. Widner then traces the history of adoption in America. She delves into the Baby Scoop Era, where societal pressures and shame led to a massive number of relinquishments, leaving a legacy of trauma for both birth mothers and adoptees. The book also sheds light on the tragic history of Native American adoption, detailing the cultural genocide perpetrated through forced assimilation and the eventual protections offered by the Indian Child Welfare Act (ICWA). By providing this historical context, Widner demonstrates that adoption is not a static concept but a practice that has evolved with, and been shaped by, societal norms and injustices. The book’s greatest strength is its inclusion of first-hand accounts. Through these personal stories, Widner gives voice to the diverse experiences within the "adoption constellation." Adoptees share their feelings of abandonment and the struggle to integrate their dual identities. Birth parents recount the pain of relinquishment and the lasting trauma they endure. Adoptive parents speak candidly about their motivations and the challenges they face. These interwoven narratives create a multi-layered tapestry that captures the emotional spectrum of the adoption journey. Ultimately, The Adoption Paradox is an insightful work that urges readers to critically re-evaluate adoption practices. Widner’s call to action is a plea for greater awareness and compassion, advocating for a future where the well-being of all parties involved is paramount. This book is an essential read for anyone connected to adoption, offering a path toward healing, understanding, and a more ethical and humane approach to family-building. Previous Next

< Back Printed Word Reviews Hosts the Independent Press & NYC Big Book Awards and Gives Back to the Local Newark Community. December 3, 2025 at 12:56:34 PM Printed Word Reviews Hosts the Independent Press & NYC Big Book Award Event at BookCAMP 2026 and Gives Back to Newark Community with a Local Business Initiative. Ted Olczak, publisher of Printed Word Reviews, host of the International Independent Press & NYC Big Book Award event at BookCAMP 2026, www.PWRBookCAMP.com , which honors publishing excellence from global authors and local writers with a good book, today announced a major community initiative to support Newark’s local artists and merchants, committing a significant portion of table proceeds directly to local community development organizations. While authors and publishers pay between $159 and up to $1,000 per ticket to attend the prestigious International event, the organization is dedicating prime table areas to local artists and merchants. This opportunity will be available for three hours on both Saturday and Sunday, with tables priced affordably at $350. In a move to reinforce private sector support for the local community amid government cutbacks, Printed Word Reviews, has pledged to donate or have the local businesses within the Newark Alliance and community to receive at least 50% of the table proceeds, or 90% of the profits from the sale of the tables, whichever amount is greater. “We understand that for our communities to thrive, the private sector must step up to support local efforts,” said Ted Olczak. “This initiative not only creates direct economic opportunities for local Newark businesses to showcase their work alongside an international event, but it also provides a substantial and direct benefit to the organizations actively involved in community improvement.” The annual BookCAMP event, which was officially recognized by Ras. A Baraka with a proclamation of "Independent Press Award Week" in 2024, has grown into an international platform. The awards recognize a broad spectrum of talent, from well-known figures—such as this year's honorees awarded by Martin Luther King III to three-time Emmy Award-winning journalist Steve Procko —to everyday heroes publishing independently. Award recipients are recognized and honored on stage during the main event, which the table opportunity precedes and follows. “It has been a Herculean effort to build this into the International event it is today, and we are incredibly proud to host it right here in Newark, NJ for the third year in a row,” the publisher of Printed Word Reviews Ted Olczak added. “We believe the Newark Alliance and the entire local neighborhood can be proud of the success we have made and happy to be associated with an event committed to giving back to its host city.” Local artists, merchants, and community organizations interested in participating or learning more about the table opportunities and partnership are requested to contact the organizing committee directly, Ted Olczak at Ted@printedwordreviews.com , Jack Olczak at Jack@PrintedWordUniversity.com or utilize the online form at https://www.ipabookcamp.com/vendorapplication . ___ About Printed Word Reviews: Printed Word Reviews is a literary magazine and has an online publishing community and resource dedicated to guiding authors through the publishing process, offering resources, in-depth book reviews, author interviews, and promotional services. They are committed to celebrating and promoting excellence in the publishing industry. Find out more at www.PrintedWordReviews.com About BookCAMP: The BookCAMP brand centers around both an annual trade show/conference and a related quarterly magazine, both specifically designed to support independent authors and publishers by addressing the business challenges of the modern publishing industry. The BookCAMP event serves as a platform offering workshops, networking opportunities, and "Meet the Expert" consultations on critical topics like distribution, marketing, AI in publishing, and pitching to literary agents, often concluding with the Independent Press and NYC Big Book Awards ceremonies. Complementing the conference, the BookCAMP magazine provides ongoing, practical advice and resources five times a year, covering essential topics such as self-publishing best practices, design, printing, and finding full-service national distribution and services. Find out more at www.PWRBookCAMP.com . BookCAMP 2026 will be held on April 24-26, 2026 at the Doubletree by Hilton, Newark Liberty International Airport, Re-designed & Renovated, 128 Frontage Road, Newark, NJ 07114. Reported by Printed Word Reviews Share this article Copy link LinkedIn Facebook X (Twitter) WhatsApp Pinterest

Book review of Higher Self Yoga: A Practical Teaching by Nanette V Hucknall . ISBN: 978-1737016212 < Back Higher Self Yoga: A Practical Teaching Nanette V Hucknall Spirituality, Personal Growth, Well-being, Health Inner Journey Publishing Share this review: Copy link Facebook LinkedIn X (Twitter) WhatsApp Pinterest Connecting Within: A Practical Guide to Spiritual Growth with Higher Self Yoga Nanette V. Hucknall's “Higher Self Yoga: A Practical Teaching” offers a compelling and accessible roadmap for anyone looking to deepen their spiritual journey and navigate the complexities of life with greater ease. At its core, the book champions the idea that connecting with your Higher Self is essential for overcoming life's hurdles and fostering genuine spiritual growth. It’s a comprehensive guide that uniquely blends profound spiritual insights with down-to-earth, actionable advice, making it a standout in the realm of self-help and spiritual literature. From the outset, Hucknall acknowledges the common challenges and obstacles encountered on the spiritual path, particularly when exploring yoga teachings. She highlights the pivotal role of the Higher Self in the pursuit of God Consciousness and in healing deep-seated inner wounds. The book touches upon the varying degrees of readiness individuals bring to their spiritual practice and emphasizes the crucial role of spiritual teachers in guiding students toward higher initiations. What makes this book practical are the real-world scenarios woven throughout, illustrating how the Higher Self can be a powerful ally in problem-solving by encouraging calmness and intuition. Hucknall also addresses the often-overlooked impact of negative relationships on spiritual growth, providing exercises to help readers evaluate and mitigate these draining energies. A significant portion of the book is dedicated to understanding one's past without succumbing to self-judgment. Hucknall explores our tendency to cling to negative experiences and underscores the importance of letting go to move forward. She's remarkably empathetic to the difficulties of maintaining a consistent spiritual practice, offering various study plans to accommodate different levels of commitment. Through insightful exercises, readers can pinpoint their current practice level and learn how to seek guidance directly from their Higher Self. “Higher Self Yoga” doesn't shy away from the crucial link between psychological work and spiritual growth. Hucknall suggests practical exercises designed to help readers identify and transform negative traits. The book thoughtfully discusses the significance of service within the yoga tradition and, perhaps more importantly, the vital need for balance in one's spiritual pursuits. It encourages readers to see themselves and others clearly, free from the distortions of prejudice and judgment. The concept of being at a crossroads in life is also explored, with exercises that guide readers in rating and prioritizing issues while leaning on their Higher Self for direction. The book closes with a strong emphasis on integrating spiritual practices into daily life. Hucknall advocates for balance and flexibility, providing exercises to help individuals connect with their Higher Self and maintain a harmonious equilibrium between their spiritual aspirations and mundane responsibilities. It’s about making spirituality a living, breathing part of every day, not just an isolated activity. “Higher Self Yoga: A Practical Teaching” is an ideal read for anyone seeking to deepen their spiritual practice, overcome personal obstacles, and cultivate a more balanced and fulfilling life. It will particularly resonate with those interested in yoga, self-awareness, and spiritual growth. Hucknall's accessible writing style ensures that concepts feel approachable, making this book a companion for both seasoned practitioners and those just beginning to explore their inner world. Previous Next

Nominate the movers and shakers under 40 years of age in the publishing industry. Boo k CAMP presented by Printed Word Reviews IPA BookCAMP NOMINATE a mover & shaker under the age of 40 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, as well as by the publisher Ted Olczak. A recognition ceremony is planned for all nominees during BookCAMP 2027 (NO ENTRY FEE required for the ceremony.) In the past issue: BookCAMP: How does one go about finding a literary agent? What is a basic query letter? Can you tell me agents who are actively seeking manuscripts? Find out that and more in the newest edition of BookCAMP! Join us at the conference: details here: www.ipaBookCamp.com Title: BookCAMP by Printed Word Reviews ISSN: 2994-4406 * Frequency: Five times annually, Quarterly plus BONUS MFA issue Issue Dates: February; May; August; and November. Print Trial Offer $12 for 3 months, then renewals at $30 annually Subscribe: $30 for 12 months, then renewals annually at $30 WHAT IS THE AGE REQUIREMENT FOR TOP 40 UNDER 40 CANDIDATES? To be eligible for consideration in the Top 40 Under 40 in Publishing - Class of 2026, nominees must be over the age of 18 and UNDER the age of 40 on Jan. 1, 2026. HOW DO I NOMINATE SOMEONE FOR TOP 40 UNDER 40? Nominations for the class of 2026 are open until April 1, 2026. You can enter a nomination here. You just need your nominee’s name, job title, phone number, e-mail address and a brief explanation of why you think they should be named to the Top 40 Under 40 in publishing. Then we send the nominee acceptance form directly to the nominee and get all the information we need from them. CAN I NOMINATE MORE THAN ONE PERSON? Yes. You can nominate as many people as you’d like— including yourself—and you can nominate colleagues, friends, family members or someone you know through their work in the publishing community. CAN I NOMINATE A GROUP OR A PAIR OF PEOPLE AS CO-NOMINEES? Yes. We know that many people’s success is as part of a team. That said, the intention of the Top 40 Under 40 is to recognize the outstanding work of people, so typically groups of two or three are the most likely to make it through our process. For example, two people who have started and run a business together, or a Editor-Publisher team that has really grown a company. All of the co-nominees must be over 18 and under 40 on Jan. 1, 2026 and must have a strong tie to publishing. To co-nominate people, fill out a nomination form for each individual. In order for each candidate to be eligible we must receive a separate form for each person. WILL THE NOMINEES BE TOLD WHO NOMINATED THEM? No, they remain anonymous. The nominees will only be told that they were nominated and that they need to fill out a second form, the nominee acceptance form, but we won’t tell them who nominated them (but feel free to tell them yourself if you’d like). WHAT MAKES SOMEONE A GOOD CANDIDATE FOR TOP 40 UNDER 40? Top 40s are the best and brightest in publishing. They are uniquely different from one another but they are all high achievers. They include editors, designers, agents, marketing, publicity, digital/social media, etc. and more. They give back to the community and elevate publishing through their work, whether it be in their career or volunteer work. They inspire us through everything they do. DOES BEING NOMINATED MULTIPLE TIMES HELP MY NOMINEE? DOES IT SHOW THAT MANY PEOPLE WANTED THEM ON THE LIST? No. The judges look mainly at the nominee acceptance form that has been filled out by the nominees themselves. While you may want to ensure that your nominee was considered and nominated, it won’t make a difference. Nominee only get one notice of nomination. THE PERSON I WANT TO NOMINATE LIVES OUTSIDE OF THE UNITED STATES. CAN I STILL NOMINATE THEM? Yes. All Top 40s will have a strong connection to publishing. They can live outside of the United States. WHY DO I HAVE TO COMPLETE A NOMINEE ACCEPTANCE FORM IF I WAS ALREADY NOMINATED? We have found that often the people who nominate someone for Top 40 don’t have enough information to give us a clear picture of who the nominees are and what they have accomplished. So, we go straight to the source and ask the nominees to tell us themselves what they’ve done. Your nomination is judged mainly on what you put in the nominee acceptance form — the information you provide and how clear it is. WHAT WILL HAPPEN IF I DON'T COMPLETE THE NOMINEE ACCEPTANCE FORM? If you have been nominated but you do not complete the nominee acceptance form you will not be eligible for the Top 40 Under 40 in publishing and your information will not be sent to our judges for consideration. HOW ARE THE TOP 40 SELECTED? From the nominations sent in, our editorial staff will create a short list of nominees who have demonstrated the highest levels of achievement, whether in their career or community work. We also look for well-rounded candidates who have achieved high levels in both career and volunteer work. The short list is sent to our BookCAMP judging panel. The panel goes through these nominations with a fine-toothed comb and debates the merits of the candidates, weighing their achievements until they find the Top 40 Under 40 for the year.