< Back The Book Manufacturing Mastered Conference September 25, 2025 at 11:29:05 AM BookCAMP magazine by Printed Word Reviews recently attended and sponsored a table at The Book Manufacturers’ Institute (BMI)’s "Book Manufacturing Mastered" conference on September 16, 2025. This event brought together suppliers, manufactures, printers, and publishers as well as association publishing industry professionals to discuss key trends and challenges. The conference, which was organized in partnership with several other industry associations, provided a forum for different disciplines to collaborate, build understanding, and propose solutions. The day was structured around a series of panels, discussions, and networking opportunities. The conference was structured around a series of panels, discussions, and networking opportunities, to establish a shared goal, foster understanding, and propose solutions. The day kicked off with the panel “ Supply Chain Panel – Where do things stand today?” Experts such as Dom DeSapio ( Boston Consulting Group), Bill Rojack ( Midland Paper) , and Andy Fetherman ( Muller Martini) discussed the current state of the supply chain, a topic of critical importance in today's global market. With tariffs and EUDR in focus, a robust supply chain discussion transpired. Next, “The Economics of Printing” delved into the financial aspects of printing. Panelists Rich Letchinger ( Sheridan) , Dwight Vicks ( Vicks) , Matt Kennell ( Versa Press) , and Jonathan Huddart ( CPI) offered insights into the costs and economics driving the printing sector. Comments centered around the additional cost of compliance. The last panel “The Economics of Publishing” had Todd McGarity ( Hachette), Jenn Paulson (Johns Hopkins Press) , and Claudia Pilcher ( Scholastic) shared their expertise on the economic pressures and business models within publishing. The afternoon was dedicated to interactive roundtable discussions on AI, EUDR, Printing, Distribution, and other topics. These discussions provide a platform for attendees to engage directly with peers and experts on specific topics, fostering collaboration and problem-solving. The day concludes with a reception and table-top exhibitions, offering a chance for attendees to network and explore new technologies and services from sponsors like Bradford & Bigelow and Alberta Newsprint Company. BookCAMP’s assessment of the "Book Manufacturing Mastered" conference was that it’s an opportunity for industry publishing professionals from different parts of the publishing industry to understand the big picture issues and attempt to achieve common goals. There was sharing of valuable knowledge, networking with colleagues, and being informed about the latest developments shaping the future of book manufacturing that made this conference worthwhile. Reported by Printed Word Reviews Share this article Copy link LinkedIn Facebook X (Twitter) WhatsApp Pinterest

< Back Epson Launches SureColor F370 Printer and Cotton Primer to Expand On-Demand Customization Options September 26, 2026 at 8:26:42 AM For under $1000, Epson has unveiled its new SureColor F370 dye-sublimation printer alongside a specialized Sublimation Primer for Cotton, aimed at expanding product customization capabilities for small businesses, creators, and educational institutions. Announced at the PRINTING United Expo , the hardware and chemical solution combination addresses a long-standing limitation of traditional dye-sublimation printing by enabling transfers onto light-colored natural fibers, such as cotton, alongside standard polyester materials. Specifically designed for small workspaces, this SureColor F370 is designed as an entry-level, purpose-built printer for on-demand production. With a print area accommodating media up to 13” x 19”, the unit handles media via an auto-switching 150-sheet 8.5-inch cassette and a 15-sheet 13” x 19” rear tray. The system features built-in transfer paper modes tailored specifically for either soft fabrics or hard goods like promotional items, photo panels, and home decor. Dye-sublimation has historically required high-polyester-content synthetic fabrics or specially coated hard goods to fix the dyes. Epson’s new liquid Sublimation Primer for Cotton allows creators to apply sublimation inks to white and light-colored cotton garments without adopting direct-to-garment (DTG) or direct-to-film (DTF) hardware platforms. “With the SureColor F370, we’ve made professional dye-sublimation more accessible than ever, while our new Sublimation Primer for Cotton opens exciting opportunities beyond traditional polyester applications,” said Tim Check, Product Manager of Professional Imaging at Epson America. Both products will ship in November through authorized Epson partners and the official eStore. Reported by Printed Word Reviews Share this article Copy link LinkedIn Facebook X (Twitter) WhatsApp Pinterest

< Back Printed Word Reviews Launches the FALCON Review SHORT to Drive Rapid Book Discovery September 4, 2026 at 5:44:14 AM Printed Word Reviews today announced the launch of its newest offering, the FALCON Review SHORT. Designed specifically for independent authors and publishers navigating an increasingly crowded marketplace, this bite-sized review delivers high-impact, critical feedback in an easily digestible format. The FALCON Review SHORT will now deliver a 75-to-125-word evaluation crafted to hook readers, booksellers, and librarians in seconds. Rather than replacing full critical and summary reviews, the SHORT serves as an agile marketing asset that authors can immediately leverage across social media, press kits, and promotional materials. "FALCON Reviews are our direct response to the lack of accessible, quality independent book reviews," said Ted Olczak, publisher at Printed Word Reviews. "With the FALCON Review SHORT, we are giving authors a powerful, concise way to grab the attention of industry influencers, agents, and readers when initial impressions count most." Industry authors have consistently praised the FALCON Review program for its professionalism and sharp editorial focus: "Nice write up with lots of energy. We approve." — Breakfield & Burkey , authors of the Enigma Series "Excellent job in identifying the essence of this book. Thank you so much." — Simon T. Bailey , author of Resilience@Work "Thank you for the well-written review and summary of the book... I think this is a great review." — J.L. Hancock , author of The Spear and the Sentinel The FALCON Review SHORT is available now for authors looking to boost their discovery and career momentum. To find out more details, one can visit https://www.printedwordreviews.com/falcon-review . Reported by Printed Word Reviews Share this article Copy link LinkedIn Facebook X (Twitter) WhatsApp Pinterest

Book review of A Dangerous Man by J.L. Engel . ISBN: 978-1968914011 < Back A Dangerous Man J.L. Engel Thriller, human trafficking, vigilante justice, redemption, rescue Independently published Share this review: Copy link Facebook LinkedIn X (Twitter) WhatsApp Pinterest In a race against time, a former Army intelligence analyst turned 9-1-1 dispatcher must navigate the treacherous world of human trafficking to save a terrified child from a violent shootout, while a relentless vigilante seeks to dismantle the very syndicate that threatens them both. In the gritty tradition of urban noir and high-stakes thrillers, J.L. Engel’s “A Dangerous Man” explores the shadows lurking beneath the surface of contemporary Boston. Engel takes us into the moral gray areas where law enforcement ends and vigilante justice begins. The novel kicks off with a pulse-pounding 9-1-1 call that serves as the catalyst for a much larger explosion of violence. Regina Stratford, a veteran dispatcher, listens to the terror of young Ana Stewart as a warehouse shootout unfolds. When SWAT leader Officer Beaumont arrives, the discovery is harrowing: a graveyard of traffickers and a cellar full of victims. What follows is a dual-track investigation. On one side, we have FBI Special Agent Connor Stone and Detective McCrary, trying to dismantle the syndicate of Yuri Kurikova through legal channels. On the other, we have Ghost, a shadow-dweller whose surgical strikes against the syndicate suggest that some debts can only be paid in blood. The strength of Engel’s narrative lies in its ensemble cast, which represents the various facets of a broken system. Ghost is the vigilante, a character driven by a meticulous and cold need for vengeance. He isn't just a “tough guy”; he is a response to a system that failed. The investigators Stone and McCrary provide the procedural backbone of the story, highlighting the frustration of playing by the rules when the enemy, like the complicit Commissioner DeMarte, is writing them. Lastly, the Kurikovas, serve as formidable, loathsome villains, ensuring the reader is fully invested in their eventual downfall. While the action is fast-paced, the novel lingers on several heavy themes. Human trafficking acts as the dark engine of the plot, treated with the gravity and urgency such a real-world horror deserves. Through Commissioner DeMarte, Engel explores how institutional corruption can protect the most heinous crimes. And yet, the book deals with the morality of: “Is a man still a ‘hero’ if he uses the same violence as the villains?” The choice of Boston as a backdrop is inspired. Engel utilizes the city’s unique geography and atmosphere to create a sense of claustrophobia and "old-world" grit. The transition from sterile police stations to the opulent, fortified estates of the mob creates a sharp visual contrast that mirrors the economic divide inherent in trafficking. “A Dangerous Man” is an adrenaline-fueled infiltration that feels earned. The resolution avoids a “neat and tidy” ending; instead, it leaves Detective McCrary forever changed and Ghost moving toward a new, even more mysterious target: the enigmatic Mr. X. “A Dangerous Man” is a gripping read for fans of “The Punisher” or “Sicario.” It manages to be a high-octane thriller while maintaining a somber, respectful focus on its central subject matter. Engel has successfully set the stage for a series that promises to be as thought-provoking as it is exciting. Previous Next

< Back The Color of Action: Dr. Latish Reed's Case for Equity Beyond the Statement October 2, 2026 at 10:01:51 AM "I should just write about what I'm experiencing" is a phrase most authors have said to themselves at least once. For Dr. Latish Reed , it was no different — and, in fact, a guiding principle in her educational leadership roles, consulting practice, and her 2025 debut book, The Complexities of Equity: Navigating Shades of Gray in Schools and Other Organizations . Growing up in Milwaukee, Wisconsin, Reed was part of her school district's desegregation program, and she was bused to Shorewood Public Schools, a suburb outside the city. Her parents chose this experience to encourage not only her learning but also to give her a tangible reminder of what it means to stand firmly for what you believe in. The program was a part of Chapter 220 , a deep part of the state’s history that Wisconsin lawmakers created and passed in 1975, but it suddenly came to an end in 2015. What seems like a practical decision is now something deeper. Reed was often the only Black child in her class, and she had to build what she calls "this muscle around navigating the world as a black girl in a predominantly white environment." The experience left a lasting impact, one that would eventually play into Reed's path through education. She has spanned nearly every role within the system. She started as an admissions counselor for Marquette University before quickly transitioning to a middle school teacher with Milwaukee Public Schools, then became an assistant principal around the time of the No Child Left Behind Act. She thought her journey had reached a peak, but that little girl who always stood determined was telling her to seek more. So to understand the complex forces shaping schools such as race, class, immigrant status, and special education needs, she earned her master's at Alverno and then her PhD in Educational Leadership and Policy Analysis from UW Madison. After earning her PhD, she took on a professorship at UNC Chapel Hill, where she taught courses like The Cultural Aspects of Leadership Instruction in School Reform and Program Development for Special Populations. She then took on another teaching role at the University of Wisconsin-Milwaukee. Yet, with more than two decades of experience under her belt, she writes candidly in the book about her denial of tenure at UMW. A moment she says that even a high-performing faculty member like herself may go through, and is a sign to not lose your way or the reasoning for why you started the work. Reed returned to the school district in 2016, where it all began, and became Milwaukee Public Schools’ first administrator specifically charged with leading equity work. A full-circle moment that brings those from across the organization together to write equity policies. Yet, as she puts it, "Policies and programs do not change practice, but people do.” That tension the one between good intentions and real change is the heart of her work. Reed's framework for understanding that tension appears in the Equity Empowerment Continuum, a tool she flips on its head by using color not to judge people, but to measure action. White, she explains, is to show "the absence of color," the absence of action or the belief that nothing is wrong and nothing needs to change, even as documented inequities persist around us. The Continuum is a tool for identifying where you are and where you want to go, recognizing that where you are can change based on a multitude of factors. You can identify where you are in relation to equity and how you are advocating and taking action toward equity, including for others. She describes light gray as performative, for example, statements and social media activism without the willingness to confront family or friends to change an actual practice. While Dark gray is where real progress happens, within the limits of a bureaucracy, this looks like leaning into policies, procedures, and practices that make a difference. But black, although the darkest color, she says, represents the justice that would be utopian. Reed describes it as “It's not a stationary thing. It's dynamic." Therefore not a fixed endpoint but an evolving ideal that people in an organization are always trying to define together. She pairs this with her original framework, which she calls the ICE- T, framework. Standing for Identity, Context, Experience, and Timing. A tool that shows how effectively someone can advocate depends on who they are, what is happening or has happened during the action they want to enable, and when they try to implement it. It comes from the willingness to lean into being a more equitable person and maintaining that environment, even when the word "equity" itself has been criticized. These two frameworks intertwine with Reed's consulting work, REEDLEAD Leadership Solutions , which grew out of the same gap she saw within teaching: leaders who want to lead for justice, who want to serve everyone equitably, but who don't always know what that looks like in practice. She works in collaboration with Derute Consulting Cooperative , which she co-founded with four other professors in 2012. Her own practice focuses on keynote addresses, professional learning, and executive coaching, helping leaders assess where they are and strategize around moving the needle forward. Reed's book and her work are a tool for people to identify where they are and where they want to go. Not everything is black and white, and it's certainly not the default way of thinking we should have. As she puts it, "I feel that we are in a space where people need tools now to understand and to process the resistance that's needed in this moment." For Reed, the light, medium, dark, and the shades in between chart the distance between action and performance, and leadership is where the two meet. What separates the two, for Reed, is introspection: constantly grappling with what equity, equality, and fairness look like in what you're doing, and whether you're lifting up all you can to achieve that goal. "I think some leaders forget that part," she says about the action and act of service. "People can't get what they need. You're not serving people if you're unable to serve." Service and introspection, she says, make all the difference between talking about color and acting on it. Printed Word Reviews / Reported by Mali Ayala Dr. Latish Reed Share this article Copy link LinkedIn Facebook X (Twitter) WhatsApp Pinterest

< Back The Free Books Project Marks 10 Years, Eyes Nationwide Expansion August 31, 2026 at 9:52:16 AM With the 10th anniversary of The Free Books Project approaching, Founder Tom Martin shows no signs of slowing down. The organization began in late 2017 when Martin noticed a need within his Camden community for greater access to literacy materials and programs for all ages, particularly youth. Nearly a decade later, their Weekly Pop-Up Libraries, 230 Book Arks, and multiple Book Shelf Installations at partnering organizations have ensured that no Camden resident must walk more than 10 minutes for a book. The nonprofit has started its expansion into surrounding areas with 80 Book Arks built in Philadelphia, mapped on its designated Ark Map, and collaborated to bring shelves to the Kensington community. Yet, within the next 10 years, Martin hopes to go nationwide. "There’s no reason for a group that's in Gary, Indiana, why we couldn't send them the Book Ark plans, and they build their own," Martin explains. The Book Ark began with the idea of turning abandoned newspaper stands into something more useful than lending libraries. Program Manager Lelia Crawford shared that the Arks are now receiving their own 8-page detailed guide, expected by this year, so other communities can build their own. The effort has already taken off as Temple University built over 20 of them this past January for its MLK Day of Service, a story Martin was surprised to learn through outlets like NBC. "We really just want to make sure that residents in every single neighborhood have access to beautiful books," Crawford says. Their busiest season, back-to-school, has just ended, but it leads them to a new year where the team is gearing up for a limited exhibition showcasing new 12 Ark pieces from April 1-17, 2027, by local "Arkists" and even Rutgers-Camden students in collaboration with a renowned local photographer and studio owner, Eric James Montgomery. For Martin, who started with a simple desire to give out books, it’s a full-circle moment he gets to help other local community members live out their dreams and help launch dozens more. He described the project as "just a place where everyone is accepted; we can talk about books. We can talk about anything." The organization continues to seek donations and help from what they like to call their “silent heroes”, especially books in foreign languages for its Spanish-speaking community, cookbooks, self-help titles, and works highlighting people of color. Printed Word Reviews / Reported by Mali Ayala Share this article Copy link LinkedIn Facebook X (Twitter) WhatsApp Pinterest

< Back Librarian Terri Lesley's First Amendment Battle Ends in $700,000 Settlement Over LGBTQ+ Book Dispute October 17, 2025 at 7:19:42 AM Terri Lesley, the former director of the Campbell County Public Library System in Gillette, Wyoming, has become a national figure in the fight for intellectual freedom and against book censorship. Her high-profile legal battle against the county over her termination concluded with a significant $700,000 settlement, which she sees as a vindication of her defense of the First Amendment. The dispute began in 2021 when the library marked Pride Month by featuring LGBTQ+-themed books and resources, which drew immediate backlash from a conservative segment of the community and local officials. Critics argued that titles related to sexuality and LGBTQ+ identity, particularly those in the young adult and children's sections, were inappropriate for minors and demanded their removal or relocation. Some of the contested titles included “This Book is Gay” by Juno Dawson and “How Do You Make a Baby” by Anna Fiske. As the library director, Lesley repeatedly refused to comply with the demands to restrict access to these materials. Her core argument was that removing or censoring the books would violate the First Amendment right to access information and would be a discriminatory act against the LGBTQ+ community. She upheld the library's professional standards and existing policies, often warning the Library Board and County Commissioners that censorship could expose the county to legal challenges. The two-year conflict intensified, with Lesley and her staff facing public accusations of "peddling pornography" and criminal activity from some activists. Amid this hostile environment, the American Library Association recognized Lesley's courage, awarding her the John Phillip Immroth Memorial Award in 2022 for her defense of free expression. The conflict came to a head in July 2023 when the Campbell County Library Board, which by then had a majority of members aligned with the book objectors, voted to terminate Lesley's employment. The county claimed her firing was due to performance issues, a rationale Lesley vehemently disputed. In response, Lesley filed a federal civil rights lawsuit against the county, the commission, and the library board. Her suit alleged that her dismissal was retaliation for her refusal to violate the U.S. Constitution and for defending the rights of the LGBTQ+ community. The case was ultimately resolved in October 2025 with the county agreeing to pay Lesley a $700,000 settlement. While the county did not admit wrongdoing, Lesley and her attorneys heralded the financial outcome as a clear victory against censorship. "I do feel vindicated," Lesley told The Associated Press following the announcement. "It's been a rough road, but I will never regret standing up for the First Amendment." Lesley's attorney, Iris Halpern, emphasized the broader impact of the case, adding, "We hope at least that it sends a message to other library districts, other states, other counties, that the First Amendment is alive and strong and that our values against discrimination also remain alive and strong." The case serves as a powerful reminder of the rising tide of book-banning efforts across the United States and underscores the crucial, often-contested role of librarians as guardians of intellectual freedom and the public's right to read. Reported by Printed Word Reviews Share this article Copy link LinkedIn Facebook X (Twitter) WhatsApp Pinterest

< Back Bookwire and CB Set to Transform Dutch Digital Publishing Market August 19, 2026 at 4:48:05 AM European digital publishing took a major step forward as Dutch distribution giant CB (Centraal Boekhuis) and Frankfurt-based technology company Bookwire completed a massive infrastructure migration, integrating 105,000 digital titles into a unified distribution network. The long-term strategic partnership shifts CB’s underlying digital operations to the Bookwire OS platform. The migration incorporates CB’s full catalog, over 100,000 titles, comprising 80,000 e-books and 25,000 audiobooks. This incorporates 500+ publishing partners to more than 200 global distribution channels, including Kobo , the Dutch Royal Library (KB), and 130 local webshops. Rather than forcing Dutch publishers onto a new platform, the companies implemented a hybrid architecture. Bookwire runs as the backend technology engine, while publishers retain access through CB’s existing interface, CB Online. The technical rollout began in August 2025 and concluded its primary phase in July 2026 for Bookwire, with some additional operational steps for CB to still be implemented, including the connection of additional audiobook platforms and the transfer of audiobook sales in webshops to the Bookwire infrastructure. The shift allows CB to phase out legacy distribution tech without interrupting daily business operations, and Bookwire will assist with these last implementations. "Working with CB has allowed us to combine our global technology platform with deep local market expertise," said Christian Lindemann , COO at Bookwire. "This collaboration proves that innovation doesn't mean disruption." The deal solidifies CB's footprint across the Netherlands and Belgium while giving its local publisher network immediate access to Bookwire’s international reach and analytics suite. Both companies confirmed plans to explore further joint opportunities across European markets. Reported by Printed Word Reviews Share this article Copy link LinkedIn Facebook X (Twitter) WhatsApp Pinterest

Book review of Cyber Case Thorn by Ken Tentarelli . ISBN: 979-8242161870 < Back Cyber Case Thorn Ken Tentarelli Cybercrime, ransomware, technology, threats, security Independently published Share this review: Copy link Facebook LinkedIn X (Twitter) WhatsApp Pinterest When a series of cyberattacks disrupt live events, Incident Responder Seph Carano must unravel the mystery behind a notorious hacker known as Thorn before he strikes again, risking chaos and notoriety in the digital age. In a sharp departure from the sun-drenched, historical cobblestones of Renaissance Italy, award-winning author Ken Tentarelli pivots to the cold, neon-lit world of modern digital warfare in “Cyber Case Thorn,” his first in a new techno-thriller series. As the opening salvo of the Cyber Case series, this novella is a lean, high-velocity exploration of ransomware, vanity-driven hacking, and the thin digital line held by the Cyber Security Agency (CSA). Set in modern day New York City and various urban centers across America, the story begins not in a server room, but in a crowded club. When a live performance by a local band is derailed by a sudden, violent malfunction of the sound and lighting systems, the incident is initially dismissed as a technical glitch. However, Persephone “Seph” Carano, a seasoned Incident Responder for the CSA, senses something more sinister. What follows is a sophisticated procedural that tracks the rise of a new kind of predator: Leslie, a young, disaffected hacker operating under the alias "Thorn." Driven by a desperate hunger for dark-web infamy rather than mere financial gain, Thorn’s escalations move from disrupting local gigs to targeting high-profile political events, putting the stability of public safety at risk. Tentarelli populates the CSA with a believable, tech-savvy ensemble. Persephone Carano is a standout protagonist—methodical, sharp, and possessed of a "ticking clock" intuition that makes her the perfect foil for an unpredictable hacker. She is supported by a solid team, including forensic analyst Theo Garcia and analyst Zack Laski, whose technical chemistry provides the book with its "techno-thriller" pulse. The narrative also benefits from its civilian perspectives, such as Murray, the club manager, and Brad, a sound technician with high-level connections. However, the most intriguing figure is Leslie (Thorn). Tentarelli avoids the cliché of the "shadowy mastermind," instead painting Thorn as a vulnerable yet dangerous youth whose idolization of cybercriminals makes him a volatile threat. “Cyber Case Thorn” strength lies in its "digital forensics" storytelling. The investigation moves from the discovery of a Trojan hidden in sound-system software to a complex game of digital breadcrumbs. Tentarelli translates the invisible world of code and dark-web forums into high-stakes drama. The tension peaks when Thorn targets an event involving the Vice President, forcing the CSA and the FBI into a precarious collaboration. “Cyber Case Thorn” is a timely narrative that delves into the psychology of cybercrime. By focusing on the motive—the quest for notoriety—rather than just the method, Tentarelli adds a layer of human frailty to a genre that can often feel clinical. Previous Next

Book review of Hazardous Lies by Stephen J. Wallace . ISBN: < Back Hazardous Lies Stephen J. Wallace Thriller, Mystery/Crime, crisis, corporate cover-up River Grove Books Share this review: Copy link Facebook LinkedIn X (Twitter) WhatsApp Pinterest Haunted by a past tragedy, federal investigator Jon Barrett races against time to uncover the truth behind a deadly explosion at a chemical plant, facing corporate deceit and personal demons as he seeks justice for the victims. For fans of investigative thrillers, “Hazardous Lies” is a must-read that uncovers the dark side of corporate negligence. Set in the modern day, the story primarily unfolds in Charleston, West Virginia, and Washington, D.C., following the devastating aftermath of a catastrophic chemical plant explosion. It weaves together a high-stakes plot with deep-seated moral dilemmas. The story centers on Jon Barrett, a mechanical engineer burdened by a past professional failure that has left him cautious and withdrawn. When his new boss, Craig Higgins, tasks him with investigating the incident, Jon is thrust into a high-stakes and chaotic scene at the Chemtrifuge Chemicals plant. Jon's personal journey is central to the story; his initial reluctance to engage is slowly overcome by a growing sense of duty and a need for personal redemption. He faces resistance from plant manager Sam Page and HR manager Charlie, who are more concerned with damage control and deflecting blame onto contractors than with finding the truth. As Jon begins to dig, the atmosphere of corporate secrecy and outright obstruction becomes palpable, but his determination to find the truth ultimately pushes him past his own professional anxieties. The book succeeds in its exploration of character and theme. Jon's journey from a man haunted by failure to one relentlessly pursuing justice is a powerful arc of personal redemption. His investigation becomes more than a job; it is a quest to overcome his own past and advocate for the victims of the tragedy. He faces off against formidable figures like the ruthless executive Cain Quinn and contends with the political influence of Senator A.C. Mounts, whose son is tangled up in the incident. These confrontations highlight the central themes of corporate negligence and the unyielding pursuit of truth, painting a clear picture of the lengths to which powerful entities will go to conceal their mistakes. The tension culminates in a powerful climax as Jon uncovers the critical detail that improper materials in the plant’s piping directly contributed to the explosion, leading to a final high-stakes confrontation. The plot is thought-provoking, demonstrating how Jon's efforts lead to significant changes in company practices and charges against executives, while not shying away from the somber reality of the lives lost. It leaves an impression, underscoring the importance of integrity and perseverance in the face of profound adversity. “Hazardous Lies” is a compelling thriller that combines a thrilling plot with a meaningful character arc. It offers a detailed and intricate experience, perfect for readers who appreciate an immersive story about industrial disasters and the moral battles that follow. Through Jon Barrett’s courageous journey, the book ultimately affirms that even in the darkest of circumstances, the pursuit of truth can prevail. Previous Next

< Back Harvard Law Alums Publish Childrens Book About Fatherhood June 21, 2026 at 2:43:06 AM A pair of Harvard Law School alumni and current legal scholars have published their first children's book this week in anticipation of Father’s Day, meant to help fathers and their kids explore their emotions together—and to help dads learn how to tell their kids they love them out loud. The book is titled “You Are My Favorite Story,” and is available via Fair Share Publishing . It’s written by Shani King and N. Jeremi Duru , two former Harvard Law classmates and current law professors. Both have written books in the past, but this is their first collaboration, and Duru’s first children’s book. Illustrator John Jay Cabuay brings the book to life with vivid colors. “ You Are My Favorite Story celebrates the small moments that define fatherhood, the ones that feel ordinary until you realize they are everything,” the book description on Fair Share Publishing’s webpage states. “It validates what so many fathers already feel and do, while giving beautiful language to emotions that can be hard to name out loud.…It naturally models emotional vocabulary and connection in a way that feels like a gift rather than a lesson, making it as valuable in classrooms and school libraries exploring family and social emotional themes as it is at home on the nightstand.” King, who has written children's books before, told Harvard Law Today in a joint interview with Duru that the idea for the message came far before the idea for the book. “‘Have I ever told you?” is something that I’ve asked my kids for years,” King said. “It allows me to get away with telling them that I love them, that I believe in them, and that I love being their dad every day. On a random day years ago, I wrote a love letter to them and posted it online. That letter eventually became my first book. Years later, I wrote another love letter to them, but this one was from the perspective of a dad.” Instead of posting this one, though, King reached out to Duru, an old classmate and constant friend with whom he had regularly discussed the joys and struggles of fatherhood. “Shani emailed me out of the blue one day and asked me to take a look at and share with him my thoughts on a short piece of writing he’d done,” Duru told Harvard Law Today in the interview. “It was essentially a poem he’d written that involved a father speaking to his child. It was beautiful.” The authors say their goal for the book is to help dads find a way to tell their kids they love them, as fathers sometimes struggle with that kind of emotional intimacy. “I grew up being told I was loved, and as I have raised my children, I tell them I love them all the time, but it is not as easy for some fathers to be expressive in that way,” Duru said. “I hope this book sends the message that it is healthy and feels really good to tell your children how much they mean to you and that you love them. And for fathers who struggle to speak in this way with their children, I hope that in reading the book to their children, they can begin to feel more comfortable in being expressively loving.” Printed Word Reviews / Reported by Jules Roscoe Share this article Copy link LinkedIn Facebook X (Twitter) WhatsApp Pinterest

< Back It Was Either That Or AI October 5, 2026 at 5:51:25 AM On August 19, 2026, C'était ça ou mourir by Thélyson Orélien was published and became an instant hit. Originally released in France, the title, which translates to "It Was That or Die," was Orélien's debut novel, raking in accomplishments such as the Prix du roman Fnac and a first selection for the Prix Goncourt. Yet, just a few weeks later as quick as the praise rolled in, an ominous social media post made it all vanish, with claims of Orélien using artificial intelligence to write his work. The novel is told through the eyes of Jonas Dorléon, who has a Haitian background, same as Orélien. It is about a history and geography teacher's forced migration from Port-au-Prince due to the violence, traveling through the Southern hemisphere in order to get up North to Canada. Similar to Orélien's story of growing up in Haiti but needing to leave suddenly after the 2010 earthquake, seeking his family that was already settled in Quebec. The themes and timing of the book seemed to have tugged at the heart strings of readers as it uplifted the immigrant community and those seeking refuge, needing a figure of hope. Yet, across headlines, Orélien's once heartfelt piece is now being challenged and scrutinized with no actual evidence of AI usage or not. The post came on September 23rd from the account Balance ton Claude , which is ironically a twist on the company Anthropic and their Claude AI model. It shared screenshots of excerpts of the text run through an AI test model, showing that in most cases 100% of the text was written by AI. Independent French publications did runs of the same excerpts on their own and got the same results, confirming the anonymous poster's claims. As this growing use of AI has many on edge as to what's real and what's fake, determining who they can turn to for authentic literature and thought-provoking pieces is looking to be more of a challenge every single day. Many authors have stood their ground with stances of using no AI whatsoever, while others are more lenient, saying they don't mind using it for brainstorming or organizing notes. However for Orélien, C'était ça ou mourir was removed from the first selection for the Prix Goncourt, and the Strasbourg Espoir CIC prize, a harsh but conclusive decision made by the board. Yet, Orélien started his career in 2007, where he won the international prize for young authors Switzerland with his entry titled Les Couleurs de ma terre or "The Colors of My Land," and a Radio-Canada award in 2012 for a short story of his, "Where is the World Going?" He then pivoted his writing career into one of justice, earning his law degree in Haiti and then studying politics at the University of Montreal Yet, are we passing judgements too quickly? Jon Malysiak from Medium warns of the “ease with which a screenshot from an AI detector can travel around the internet as though it were conclusive proof.” If a single flawed screenshot can convict a writer, what does this say about how we weigh evidence. Are we willing to cast away authentic writing and creativity in fear of being deceived? If we respond to that fear by accusing everyone of using AI or beginning to have an automatic mistrust over any writing we don’t just punish authors and creators, but also change the incentives. Originality will no longer be an asset but a liability and the safest route would be to lean into and normalize AI approaches to writing and crafting stories in order to get ahead of the backlash. In trying to protect and uphold writing standards, we may end up normalizing the very thing we feared, and drive real creativity further into the shadows. Printed Word Reviews / Reported by Mali Ayala Share this article Copy link LinkedIn Facebook X (Twitter) WhatsApp Pinterest