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

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

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

< Back Libraries continue the Digital Renaissance: All-Time Records in 2025 January 25, 2026 at 7:37:41 AM The local library, no longer just a building filled with dusty shelves, is a digital powerhouse. New data reveals that 2025 was a landmark year for global literacy and digital media, as libraries and schools surpassed 820 million digital checkouts and a staggering one billion minutes of streamed content with the OverDrive apps, according to its public relations lead Madison Stoneburner. The surge, fueled by popular platforms like Libby, Sora, and Kanopy, highlights a massive shift in how the world consumes information. Public libraries and academic institutions are successfully evolving to meet the "on-demand" expectations of modern readers while maintaining their core mission: providing equitable, cost-free access to high-quality content. By the Numbers: A Year of Double Digit Growth for Overdrive The statistics for 2025 paint a picture of a world increasingly reliant on digital library services. Whether it’s a student listening to an audiobook on the bus or a film buff streaming a documentary, the engagement metrics are hitting historic highs: Total Digital Checkouts: 820 million (Ebooks, audiobooks, and magazines). Year-over-Year Growth: A 10.9% increase compared to 2024. Streaming Milestones: 29.9 million plays on Kanopy, totaling over 1 billion minutes streamed. The "Million Club": More than 200 library systems and schools exceeded one million digital checkouts individually for the first time. This record-breaking year isn't just a fluke—it’s the result of libraries intentionally expanding their digital infrastructure. By offering flexible, 24/7 access to media, libraries have removed the barriers of physical distance and limited operating hours. The Sora app has become a cornerstone for schools, integrating digital reading into the classroom, while Libby remains the gold standard for public library users seeking the latest bestsellers on their smartphones. Meanwhile, the success of Kanopy suggests that libraries are becoming serious contenders in the streaming space, providing a curated, educational alternative to commercial platforms. "The scale of digital adoption and the trust communities place in libraries to provide equitable, cost-free access to high-quality content. " stated the release. As we move into 2026, the trajectory is clear: the "digital branch" of the library is just as vital as the physical one. With over 200 systems now hitting the million-checkout mark, the library’s role as a digital hub is solidified. These institutions aren't just keeping up with the times; they are setting the pace for how we will read, learn, and watch in the years to come. Here are some the impressive stats: 2025 digital lending records from the Libby and Sora global network: Total digital checkouts from libraries and schools: 820.5 million (+10% YoY) Ebooks borrowed: 379.4 million (+3%) Audiobooks borrowed: 315.9 million (+13%) Magazines borrowed: 125.1 million (+31%) Comics borrowed: 55.7 million (+22%) Adult titles borrowed: 520.4 million (7%) Children and Young Adult titles borrowed: 174.6 million (+9%) Public library checkouts: 737.6 million (+9%) School checkouts: 63.4 million (+14%) Libby installs: 9.8 million (+3%) New Kanopy users: 3.6 million (+41%) 2025 streaming records from Kanopy: Plays: 29.9 million (+8%) Total minutes streamed: 1.05 billion (+10%) Top Ten Ebooks by Digital Checkouts of 2025: The Women by Kristin Hannah The Let Them Theory by Mel Robbins The Wedding People by Alison Espach Onyx Storm by Rebecca Yarros Great Big Beautiful Life by Emily Henry Sunrise on the Reaping by Suzanne Collins The God of the Woods by Liz Moore A Court of Thorns and Roses by Sarah J. Maas Fourth Wing by Rebecca Yarros Just for the Summer by Abby Jimenez Top Ten Audiobooks by Digital Checkouts of 2025: Onyx Storm by Rebecca Yarros The Women by Kristin Hannah Pride and Prejudice by Jane Austen The Crash by Freida McFadden Fourth Wing by Rebecca Yarros The Housemaid by Freida McFadden The Wedding People by Alison Espach Great Big Beautiful Life by Emily Henry The Tenant by Freida McFadden The Four Winds by Kristin Hannah Top Ten Authors by Digital Checkouts of 2025: Jeff Kinney James Patterson Freida McFadden Sarah J. Maas Lincoln Peirce Rebecca Yarros Dav Pilkey Kristin Hannah David Baldacci Nora Roberts Top 10 library systems circulating ebooks, audiobooks and digital magazines in 2025: Los Angeles Public Library Toronto Public Library National Library Board Singapore King County Library System Harris County Public Library Multnomah County Library New York Public Library San Diego County Library The Free Library of Philadelphia Seattle Public Library Top 5 consortia circulating ebooks, audiobooks and digital magazines in 2025: MELSA: Twin Cities Metro eLibrary The Ohio Digital Library Wisconsin Public Library Consortium Indiana Digital Library Maryland's Digital Library Top digital-circulating library system by country in 2025: United States: Los Angeles Public Library Australia: South Australian Public Library Network Austria: Arbeiterkammer Canada: Toronto Public Library Denmark: eReolen Global Germany: Verbund der Öffentlichen Bibliotheken Berlins (VÖBB) New Zealand: Auckland Libraries Singapore: National Library Board Singapore Switzerland: Aubora OverDrive United Kingdom: The Libraries Consortium 18 library systems, consortia, and school libraries surpassing one million digital checkouts for the first time: Gwinnett County Public Library Prince George's County Memorial Library System Gold Coast Libraries Akron-Summit County Public Library Montgomery County Library District Consortium Los Angeles Unified School District Ohio Department of Rehabilitation and Corrections Aubora OverDrive Pinellas Public Library Cooperative New Orleans Public Library Loudoun County Public Library Boobook Deschutes Public Library Central Arkansas Library System Plano Public Library System eReolen Global Boise Public Library CLAMS Contact Madison Stoneburner, Mstoneburner@overdrive.com , +1 216-573-6886 ext. 1389, for more information or questions regarding these numbers. 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Book review of The Silkworm, the Magician and the Sister Tree: A Tale of Love and Loss by Suzy McNamara . ISBN: 9798901021712 < Back The Silkworm, the Magician and the Sister Tree: A Tale of Love and Loss Suzy McNamara grief, caregiving, Alzheimer's, loss, widowhood, sisterhood, faith Manuscripts, LLC Share this review: Copy link Facebook LinkedIn X (Twitter) WhatsApp Pinterest A moving memoir that uses the lens of folklore to explore one woman's journey through grief and transformation following two devastating losses: her husband’s Alzheimer’s diagnosis and the sudden death of her sister. Suzy McNamara’s memoir, The Silkworm, the Magician and the Sister Tree, is an intimate and devastating testament of double bereavement. Framed by a fable-like title that captures the shifting weight of caregiving and memory, the book chronicles a year in which McNamara faced two devastating losses: her husband, Bob, and her close sister, Liz-o. The book’s title sets up the allegorical framework, where McNamara weaves real-life events with symbolic imagery to conceptualize her grief. The Silkworm refers to a metaphor created by St. Teresa de Avila. St. Teresa uses the metaphor of the silkworm weaving a cocoon to demonstrate how one should protect oneself from the distractions of the outside world and delve into one’s soul where God resides—a beautiful metaphor for the Alzheimer's caregiving experience. The Magician refers to the magic between two people in love, and how that magical thread begins to fray as soon as one partner begins exhibiting symptoms of the disease. The Sister Tree refers to a tree in a local park that the author dedicated to her sister, serving as an anchor after death, that has now become a gathering place for many women who have lost their sisters. The strength of McNamara’s narrative lies in its unsparing details of loss. She carefully establishes Bob as a highly capable lawyer, a long-time partner, and the center of their bustling family. When subtle shifts in his behavior begin, they are initially mistaken for depression. The eventual diagnosis of Posterior Cortical Atrophy, a rare variant of Alzheimer’s that systematically dismantles visual and numerical processing, starts the slow-motion unraveling. McNamara chronicles the transition from equal partnership to solitary caregiving with striking honesty, detailing the silent humiliation of managing lost finances, taking over driving, and shielding a proud man from public exposure. Just as the boundaries of her world contract around Bob’s care, her younger sister Liz-o reveals that her lung disease has progressed to needing an urgent transplant. The middle of the book becomes a tragic balancing act. McNamara captures the sheer logistical and emotional paralysis of being pulled between an intensive care unit and a home where a spouse can no longer be left alone. When Liz-o suffers catastrophic bleeding, McNamara must make the agonizing decision to withdraw life support, holding her sister's hand as she dies. With no pause, Bob’s illness accelerates rapidly in the wake of Liz-o’s death. From Thanksgiving agitation and wandering to terminal restlessness and seizure, the narrative captures the brutal physical reality of home hospice. The final scenes where McNamara and her son physically soothe Bob through his final crises while clergy, music, and their children fill the bedroom are handled with profound reverence. The Silkworm, the Magician and the Sister Tree does not offer clean, romanticized answers to grief. Instead, it provides a steady hand to anyone who has ever had to survive the impossible task of caregiving while mourning in real-time. By turning to writing in the aftermath, McNamara transforms raw survival into an enduring act of love, leaving behind a vital comfort for caregivers, the bereaved, and anyone learning to rebuild a life in the quiet wake of profound loss. Previous Next

< Back Award-Winning Novel Dodging Satan Releases Audiobook Edition, Lands Cover of Printed Word Reviews and Shines in NYC September 11, 2026 at 8:15:00 AM Kathleen Zamboni McCormick’s hilarious coming-of-age story celebrates a major wave of global recognition, including international festival and a NYC billboard. Dodging Satan: My Irish/Italian sometimes awesome, but mostly creepy, childhood, the award-winning semi-autobiographical novel by Kathleen Zamboni McCormick, is officially launching as an audiobook. The audiobook edition will be released September 15th and is available for preorder now on Audible. The release comes amidst a flurry of high-profile milestones, including a front-cover feature on the latest issue of Printed Word Reviews, a spotlight at the International Dublin Writers Festival, and a billboard in New York City’s Times Square, https://youtu.be/YH5PHJMC4cg . The flurry of accolades highlights the cross-market momentum behind McCormick’s story, which blends family, faith, chaos, and a distinct Irish/Italian upbringing into a humorous and moving narrative. Dodging Satan: My Irish/Italian sometimes awesome, but mostly creepy, childhood by Kathleen Zamboni McCormick Move over, Jean Shepherd! Young Bridget in award winning Dodging Satan takes refuge in wacky misunderstandings of 1960s Bible Stories and Catholic iconography to avoid problems in her Irish/Italian family life. Her musings will have you in stitches. Get ready for glorious supernatural worlds-with exorcisms, bird relics, time travel, Biblical plagues, even the 'holy' in holy water-as Bridget grapples with sadistic nuns, domestic violence, emerging sexuality, & God the Father's romantic life! Key Highlights & Recent Milestones: Exclusive Magazine Cover Story: Gabby Olczak of The GAB TALKS, https://www.independentpressaward.com/thegabtalks , sits down with Kathleen Zamboni McCormick for an in-depth interview on PWR Magazine’s cover story, exploring the real-life experiences that inspired the book. On Audio: Listeners can soon experience the voice and humor of Dodging Satan on audio voiced by the award-winning audiobook narrator and Amazon Bestselling Author, Marni Penning. The audiobook edition will be released September 15 across major digital audio platforms and is available for preorder now on Audible. I’ve done many readings of Dodging Satan and felt that I knew how the characters should sound. But hearing Bridget and the other characters performed aloud by Marni Penning made me experience the book in a whole new way," said author Kathleen Zamboni McCormick. Marni, who has been called “the maven of a thousand voices,” truly makes the book come alive with each character—even God-the-Father—having totally distinct voices. It’s also very clear that Marni gets every single one of the book’s jokes and her rendition will keep readers laughing. International Dublin Writers Festival Feature: The book earned international recognition as a featured title at the prestigious gathering of global literary voices in Dublin. Times Square Presence: Dodging Satan reached hundreds of thousands of daily onlookers with a high-visibility billboard display in the heart of NYC's Times Square. Instagram REELS captured some of the travels, from the International Dublin Writers Festival to the NYC Times Square. https://www.instagram.com/p/Dcepp3kAfAd/ Dodging Satan is available worldwide in print, and e-book formats and will soon be available in audiobook. Read the full magazine cover story and interview this month at PrintedWordReviews.com/Magazine . Preorder until September 15th a copy of Dodging Satan on audiobook: https://www.audible.com/pd/Dodging-Satan-Audiobook/B0HFKCHJBN?srsltid=AfmBOoqTKPGbxPLsWwhjqA34FPqF72I8yr9Pz08ide7xKsmoOWPuSCav Reported by Printed Word Reviews Share this article Copy link LinkedIn Facebook X (Twitter) WhatsApp Pinterest

Book review of House of Jars by Hester L. Furey . ISBN: < Back House of Jars Hester L. Furey Poetry Frayed Edge Press Share this review: Copy link Facebook LinkedIn X (Twitter) WhatsApp Pinterest Rife with revolutions and references, Hester L. Furey’s House of Jars stares unflinchingly into the scrying pool of post-modernist exploration. Reviewed by Monica Robinson. Rife with revolutions and references, Hester L. Furey’s "House of Jars" stares unflinchingly into the scrying pool of post-modernist exploration. Close examination reveals a time-shy collection that cobbles together unlikely subjects to deliriously incredible effect. As a student of literature looking towards a career as an archivist myself, it’s exciting to see Furey’s “archivally based academic work in literary history” (Furey, v) mesh with poetry in what I feel is an incredibly successful effort to “preserve overlooked nuances of 20th century human experience.” (vi) I must admit that when I encountered this text for the first time, I was flung far out of my realm. "House of Jars" is brilliant in so many ways, and though I have long been an intimate friend of poetry, I was at first daunted by the intellectual challenges that this work presented. The opportunity to explore this work served doubly as another step forward along my academic journey, and once I learned to speak its language, I found House of Jars to be a delightfully rewarding challenge, to which I hope I rose valiantly. How fitting, then, that I discovered something of myself between the clever twists and turns of these poems. As Furey has broken her work into three distinct sequences of poems unified as “a yogic journey, an examination of attachments” (vi), it seems only fair that I dissect them here in equal fashion. Furey says of this work: The book dwells on the experience of not knowing what is real, of living a long time with a version of reality that is not easy to verify but still occupies a lot of psychic real estate. The first narrative follows the journey of a character called Skeleton Woman through a mental health crisis, based loosely on the author’s experiences throughout menopause. Though a general collapse of reality is a unifying theme across this work, it presents here in the shared experiences of a woman discarded by society; one of many. Brimming with mothers and matriarchs, this section tells of neuroses I find all too familiar: phantom bugs, fearful contamination, loss of stories, loss of time. The narrator also heralds many of my idols across history here: Tzipporah, Alice B. Toklas, Virginia Woolf, Zora Neale Hurston—each seeking to reclaim themselves or else to simply understand their internal warfare in an external whirlwind of destruction. This is not dissimilar, I feel, to the impenetrable now, and therefore strings a lifeline between our modern world and their own. The inclusion and characterization of these women feels necessary to achieve the cross-cultural examination that the narrator appears to hope for, and the choir of these women’s voices collectively compose the singular voice of the Skeleton Woman. I would be remiss not to mention the titular poem, “House of Jars”, the steadfast beating heart of this strand of storytelling. These opening lines hold, for me, a simple and unflinching truth: the prison of home and of the body itself—safe from the outside and yet held captive in a drudgery of repetition. I delight, too, in the phrase “mycelium wars” and its many connotations; the thought of mysterious growth in dark places. Home from the mycelium wars, I strip, bathe, wash every conceivable surface. My life fits between the washer and the dryer. I know I can’t go on like this. Marching right along, then, this collection carries into its second thematic distinction the narrative of the Skeleton Woman and her struggles with societal restrictions and mental illness, bringing her individual experiences into a broader scope. The passage of time invites a host of medical malpractice, dim history, intertwining journeys, a search for self amid a broken empire. Characterized by storms, floods, famines, and again, infestations, this thread paves the way for the heart of the collection. Where the first section rolled out the doormat, this section crawls beneath your skin and nests there. Not here to save a dying culture— no one could do that, and truth be told, even she was a miner of sorts— here to find her own lost country, become one of the gods, answer her own prayer. It makes sense that the starting seed of this narrative was an attempt to draw parallels between “modernists who had insect-born illnesses or mental health crises provoked by insect encounters” (vi). In fact, the language from poem to poem throughout this second narrative evokes the cloying sensation of infestation, the words as visceral as they are rife with meaning. Moreover, the literary and contextual connections made here ring undoubtedly true, though the interrogation or even mere existence of them may never once have crossed the reader’s mind until now—they too, lingering thoughts, climb beneath the skin. The bulk of this collection lies in the third and final narrative, that of “Conjuring Moses” and invoking the gods of old alongside familiar characters of the new age. Furey describes this section as being “the center of the book” (vi), and I must wholeheartedly agree. The previously explored struggles reach a breaking point here, as the narrator brings all that she has written before into the light of centuries worth of study and answer-seeking, at the heart of which is the integral figure, Moses. Moses, at the core of the Abrahamic religions and an influential figure in many others, is defined here as a question being studied and meditated upon for many centuries—studied, even, by the very same modernists and Skeleton Women introduced to us throughout other parts of the collection. All of it connects and eventually coalesces in not only the existence but the legacy of Moses and what that has meant throughout the collective lived experiences of humanity. The work finds its closure here, but questions of morality and memory remain for the reader to ponder alone. In my opinion, the narrator’s inclusion of so many recognizable (or slightly less than) figures is integral to this collection. Though poetic in nature, the narrative remains—the stories woven and warped of names we understand and figures we have missed our chance to meet contextualize the collection as a distinct reworking of history beneath the hands of an archivist seeking meaning, seeking patterns, seeking, most of all, to understand the story for herself. Though I am remiss to compare one poet to the next, it would be negligent of me not to mention this collection’s strong conversation with the winding works of Stein or Ginsberg—culturally relevant, historically conscious, emotionally and intellectually curious. My final comments must caution that this is not for the casual reader. The skillfully dense layers upon layers of references, knowledge, and language demand that you give your soul entirely to the dissection of this work, if only for a brief time. Yet I must also tell you that this sacrifice is not without reward. This is among those collections that shock, startle, and otherwise coerce your worldview into a new and at the same time strikingly familiar existence for which I believe you will be grateful, should you make the time. About the reviewer: Monica Robinson is a Philadelphia based poet, author, artist, and occasional bookseller and reviewer. She is the author of Exit Wounds, EARTH IS FULL; GO BACK HOME, and to rule the desert, and has been published by Mookychick Mag, Ghost Orchid Press, and the NoSleep Podcast. Previous Next

Book review of So You Want To Be A Stunt Performer by Linda Soules . ISBN: 978-1972766248 < Back Take me back to https://www.childrensbookwormaward.com/ So You Want To Be A Stunt Performer Linda Soules stunt performance, film production, safety planning, career exploration Linda Colwell Books Share this review: Copy link Facebook LinkedIn X (Twitter) WhatsApp Pinterest A behind-the-scenes guide to stunt performing reveals how daredevil feats are meticulously engineered for safety, precision, and storytelling. In an era of viral “daredevil” videos and Computer-Generated Imagery (CGI) saturated blockbusters, Linda Soules’ “So You Want To Be A Stunt Performer" arrives as a much-needed reality check. Far from a collection of “don't try this at home” warnings or a celebratory reel of explosions, Soules presents a sophisticated, well-researched look at stunt work as a rigorous discipline rooted in engineering, physics, and radical responsibility. The book’s central thesis directly challenges the “adrenaline junkie” archetype. Soules argues that the defining quality of a stunt professional is not reckless courage, but precision under controlled conditions. She structures the narrative around a simple but vital framework: 1) plan the action; 2) engineer the safety; and 3) execute with precision. By beginning with the debunking of the “fearlessness” myth, Soules sets a mature tone for her younger audience. She illustrates that a performer’s job is to create the illusion of danger while being the safest person on set. Soules excels when she dives into the “how” of the industry. The book deconstructs the formal breakdown process, showing how a few seconds of screen time result from hours of script analysis, hazard identification, and mathematical calculations. Technical insights include detailed looks at airbags, wire rigs, and fire-retardant materials. Also covered is how equipment ratings and measurements dictate the limits of a fall or crash. Even the pivotal role of the Stunt Coordinator is covered, who holds the power to “veto” any action that isn't perfectly prepared. Rather than viewing stunts as “acts of chaos,” Soules frames falling, fighting, and driving as learned technical skills. She emphasizes that a stunt performer is, first and foremost, an actor and an athlete. The book highlights the necessity of understanding physics in motion, staying calm to ensure exact timing, and working in total sync with riggers, medics, and directors. One of the book’s strongest segments is the “day-in-the-life” sequence. It strips away the cinematic magic to reveal a world of safety meetings, repetitive rehearsals, and “costume matching.” For a young reader, this is perhaps the most vital lesson: most of the job involves waiting, checking equipment, and refining small movements rather than experiencing constant “on-camera excitement.” Soules doesn't shy away from the profession’s history. By profiling icons like Dar Robinson, Zoë Bell, and Jackie Chan, she connects the field’s innovation to its costs. She honestly discusses how past injuries and accidents paved the way for the strict modern standards that protect today's performers. This historical context reinforces the idea that the “right to refuse” unsafe work is not a sign of weakness, but a professional obligation. “So You Want To Be A Stunt Performer” is an essential resource for children, teens, and educators. It replaces the fantasy of the “daredevil” with an informed respect for the safety culture that makes action cinema possible. Soules successfully positions stunt work at the intersection of athletics and physics, offering aspiring performers a path built on discipline and ethics rather than risk. It is a serious, accessible, and ultimately inspiring guide to a profession that is often misunderstood but rarely unappreciated. Previous Next

Book review of Sower, Gon's Infinity by Brice Mbonde . ISBN: 978-1774822548 < Back Sower, Gon's Infinity Brice Mbonde demigod, salvation, games, betrayal, destiny Hasmark Publishing Share this review: Copy link Facebook LinkedIn X (Twitter) WhatsApp Pinterest Haunted by a demon sealed inside him, a young demigod and his guardian companions must survive a titan’s deadly three-day scavenger hunt for legendary relics and unravel a stolen wand’s prophecy before an eclipse lets their enemies seize a kingdom. If the first installment of Brice Mbonde’s saga was an introduction to a hero’s burden, Sower: Gon’s Infinity is the explosion of his world. Shifting from the bleakness of the Diggings to the vibrant, festive Kingdom of Leaugard, Mbonde elevates the stakes from personal survival to the fate of a “Demigod Era.” The sequel picks up with Apollon Sower as he transitions from a hunted orphan to a key player in a global power struggle. This time, the antagonist isn't just a local tyrant but the malevolent demigod Hadow, the man responsible for the death of Apollon's parents. Mbonde takes a “kitchen sink” approach to mythology, blending various traditions into a high-fantasy landscape. The introduction of the Titan Kronas adds a layer of cosmic dread, as he forces our protagonists into a deadly game to recover three artifacts known as Orbiters. The middle of the novel is a gauntlet of creative set-pieces. First, Neptune’s Wonderland, which is a treacherous aquatic detour to retrieve a legendary sword. Second, Gon’s Box is the central mystery involving intricate, mind-bending puzzles that test the group’s intellect rather than just their magic. Lastly, a high-stakes triathlon, a brilliant narrative device that ties the characters’ physical prowess to the political stability of Leaugard. While Apollon remains the focal point, the supporting cast receives much-needed depth. Willow Ithorne’s revelation of her royal lineage adds a layer of political intrigue, while Taurian Mugaga and Jinn Kusanagi solidify their roles as the bedrock of the “Guardians of Zion.” The internal struggle between Apollon and Od remains the series' most compelling hook. In this volume, Apollon stops merely fearing the demon and begins to understand how to channel that darkness, a transformation that reaches its peak during the cinematic showdown with Titan Lixir. The finale at the hands of the Magus Holly provides an unexpected emotional resonance. Her journey from vendetta-fueled antagonist to a figure of redemption offers a sophisticated counterpoint to the black-and-white morality often found in YA fantasy. Perhaps most surprising is the socio-political resolution. Mbonde doesn't just end with a defeated monster; he ends with a reformed society. The abolition of Leaugard’s caste system and the transition of power to Ivy signal that Apollon’s journey is changing the very fabric of his world. Sower: Gon’s Infinity is a “bigger, bolder” sequel in every sense. It transitions the series from a character study into a sprawling epic. While the plot is dense with artifacts and ancient rivalries, Mbonde never loses sight of the theme of inner peace. Previous Next

< Back Literary Arts Fund to Close 2026 Innovation Grant Applications on August 17 August 4, 2026 at 10:40:45 AM Literary organizations and publishers aiming to reshape the creative landscape have just two weeks left to submit their proposals for the Literary Arts Fund’s 2026 Innovation Project Grants . The application window officially closes on Monday, August 17, 2026, at 11:59 p.m. ET. Designed to tackle systemic issues within the literary community, the funding opportunity will award grants ranging from $25,000 to $100,000. These funds are designated for nonprofit or fiscally sponsored literary arts organizations, presses, and publications developing new, one-time initiatives that address critical structural challenges to better support creative writers. With high demand expected, officials anticipate a fiercely competitive review process. To assist prospective applicants with preparation, the Literary Arts Fund has made a comprehensive suite of digital resources available online. A full informational video recording and PDF slide deck from the recent grant information session is available; a downloadable preparation guide that has key application guidelines, eligibility requirements, tailored budget templates; and the Submittable platform where applications must be filed. Organizations looking to finalize their materials before the August 17 deadline can submit applications directly via the fund’s Submittable page. For specific inquiries regarding eligibility or project scope, applicants can contact the grant team directly at grants@literaryartsfund.org . Reported by Printed Word Reviews Share this article Copy link LinkedIn Facebook X (Twitter) WhatsApp Pinterest

< Back NYC Big Book and Independent Press Award-winning Notables May 2, 2026 at 7:33:58 AM Nonfiction & Memoirs Deadly Dilemma: A Memoir (Anthony Gurley) : This nonfiction work explores intense personal challenges and high-stakes decisions, earning recognition as a NYC Distinguished Favorite. Latina Madrina: Stories, Lessons, and Hard Truths From A Brown Latina In Tech (Julissa S. Germosén) , WINNER in Women's Issues, is a powerful, award-winning guide that blends a raw narrative with strategic career advice to navigate tech industry hurdles. A Fraction Stronger (Mark Berridge) : An inspiring IPA winner that details the author’s journey of recovery and resilience after a life-altering accident. Dancing on My Own Two Feet (Jenn Todling) : Recognized in New Nonfiction and Motivational categories, this memoir follows a journey toward independence and a fresh start. My Life in Business Suits, Hospital Gowns, and High Heels (Tom LeNoble) : This Distinguished Favorite offers a vulnerable look at shifting between professional success and medical struggles. Fiction & Genre Blends The Secret War of 1834 (B. B. LeClere) : A Distinguished Favorite in the Cross-Genre category that weaves historical intrigue with unique narrative elements. A Widow's Wish (Caytlyn Brooke) : Taking the WINNER spot in Erotica, this story explores themes of desire and longing following a loss. The Immortal Witness (Clifton Wilcox) : This Distinguished Favorite provides an expansive and immersive journey through the Epic Fantasy genre. Harvest of Eyes (Clifton Wilcox) : A chilling Distinguished Favorite that delves into the unsettling and macabre world of Horror. I, Monster (Clifton Wilcox) : Recognized in Military Fiction, this story examines the darker side of conflict and the human psyche. Cool’s Last Stand (Clifton Wilcox) : A Young Adult fiction piece that captures the pivotal moments and struggles of youth. The Case Against Jasper (Clifton Wilcox) : Another Young Adult standout that balances mystery with the complexities of adolescent life. More Than You Know (Gary E Smith) : A WINNER in the Political Thriller category, delivering high-stakes suspense and intricate plotting. Invaders of the Heartland (James Bultema) : This WINNER in Crime Fiction explores gritty investigations and local mysteries. Arctic Red (James Bultema) : A WINNER in Military Fiction that transports readers to a cold, high-pressure tactical environment. Ghosts of the Past (Mark Downer) : A General Fiction WINNER involving a dangerous search for lost WWII art treasures. Hazardous Lies (Stephen J. Wallace) : Recognized as both a WINNER in Thriller and a Distinguished Favorite in Techno-thriller for its fast-paced, high-tech tension. Walking on Nathan's Grave (R. Luce) : A General Fiction WINNER that takes readers on a metaphysical journey between heaven and hell. Children’s & Young Adult Georgia's No-Nonsense Nose (Carla Crane Osborne) : This multi-award winner took top honors for Book Cover Design and Children's Fiction for its charming and practical storytelling. Willard DoGooder and the Trail of Friends (Jen Kirkley) : A Distinguished Favorite that teaches children the value of friendship and kindness. Birdie's Picnic Party (Jessica McAnelly) : A Distinguished Favorite Picture Book that cleverly introduces food safety concepts to children ages 4–8. Nurse Florence® Series (Michael Dow, RN, MS) : These WINNING educational books, including a visually impaired edition, provide medical knowledge to children in an accessible way. The Central Park Irregulars (Paul Cicchini) : A Middle Grade WINNER that offers a spirited adventure set in the heart of New York City. The Sons & The Stars (Rey A. Banda) : An inspirational Distinguished Favorite that uses celestial themes to encourage young readers. Sticky Pineapple And The Little Precious Gems (Stephanie Boag) : A Distinguished Favorite in Children's Education that helps kids understand how they came into the world. Health, Self-Help & Spirituality Adjusted Reality (Dr. Sherry McAllister) : A WINNER in Health & Fitness that focuses on optimizing longevity and "whole-being" wellness. Restore Me! But Privately Please (Dr. Susan Agbenoto) : A WINNER in Christian Nonfiction that addresses the need for personal restoration and spiritual healing. Guidance from the Universe (Jill Amy Sager) : A Distinguished Favorite in Mind, Body, Spirit that offers hopeful messages for navigating daily obstacles. In Quietness, Confidence, & Strength (Rev. Dr. Terrlyn L. Curry Avery) : A Distinguished Favorite focused on deepening relationships through the power of prayer. Dismantling Racism (Rev. Dr. Terrlyn L. Curry Avery) : This Distinguished Favorite explores healing the internal and external divisions caused by racial separation. 9 Habits of Happy Retirees (Sarah Barry) : A WINNER in Self-help that provides practical advice for a fulfilling and joyful retirement. SECOND CHANCES (Sheetal Ohri) : A WINNER in Relationships that explores the possibility of renewal and growth in personal bonds. Custodial Battle (Sheetal Ohri) : A Distinguished Favorite focused on the motivational struggles of an immigrant mother fighting for her children. Sticky Pineapple And A Powerful Mind (Stephanie Boag) : A WINNER in the Pregnancy and Childbirth category, emphasizing a positive mindset during the wait for a baby. Professional, Educational & Career Transitioning Your Federal Resume to Private Industry (Kathryn Troutman) : A WINNING Reference guide for veterans and government employees entering the private sector. Federal Resume Guidebook, 8th Edition (Kathryn Troutman) : A Distinguished Favorite that remains a staple resource for navigating government career paths. The Art of Being a School Counselor (Nancy Regas) : A WINNER and Distinguished Favorite that explores the vital role and techniques of educational counseling. Backstage Grace (Yolanda Simmons) : A Distinguished Favorite career guide on how to serve others with poise, heart, and professional excellence. Creative Arts, Poetry & Miscellaneous So Much to Drool About (Barbara Stone) : A WINNER in the Gift Books category that celebrates living large with a playful perspective. The Book of Lost Innocence (Glenn Taylor) : A Distinguished Favorite Anthology that collects diverse stories centered on the theme of lost innocence. Uplift (Jessica Mann) : A Nature WINNER that highlights the beauty and restorative power of the natural world. Dracula: Finding of a Shadow (Lisa Monde): A WINNER in the Audiobook-Fiction category, bringing a fresh theatrical take to the classic vampire legend. Teach Me How to Die (Lisa Monde) : A Distinguished Favorite collection of short stories and a novella exploring mortality and human connection. Soaring to New Lows (Margaux Dunbar Hession) : A WINNER in Addiction & Recovery that uses humor to detail the chaotic journey of a rock star’s wife. A Land Filled With Horses (Robyn Rominger) : A WINNER in the Animals/Pets category that celebrates the bond between humans and horses. Avoiding Muddy Foxholes (Jim Loveless) : A WINNER in Military Nonfiction recounting the intense experiences of an American bombardier. P.E.A.C.E. (Yolanda Simmons) : A Distinguished Favorite poetry collection exploring spiritual evolution, time, and personal transition. Framed as a fictional memoir, Hunting the Red Fox (W. Kenneth Tyler, Jr.) follows Perry Barnes as he recounts his journey from a WWII special operations trainee to a 1950s professional golfer and gentleman jewel thief seeking redemption and a lost love. Reported by Printed Word Reviews Share this article Copy link LinkedIn Facebook X (Twitter) WhatsApp Pinterest

Book review of Ancilla: Master, Teach Me (The Magnum Opus, #1) by Sera Maddox Drake . ISBN: 9798889408604 < Back Ancilla: Master, Teach Me (The Magnum Opus, #1) Sera Maddox Drake Literary erotica, esoteric, occult themes, forbidden passion, power Self-publishing under the Lavande Mistral imprint Share this review: Copy link Facebook LinkedIn X (Twitter) WhatsApp Pinterest An erotic exploration of selfhood, Sera Maddox Drake’s Ancilla: Master, Teach Me follows one woman’s pursuit of spiritual mastery through her submission to the man who is both her teacher and soulmate. Ancilla opens with a scene where, as a child, the titular protagonist teaches a younger girl to conquer her fear of the monkey bars by doing them with her. This is apt foreshadowing for the mentoring relationship that is to come. The first chapter follows Ancilla throughout her early years, tracing the emergence of her erotic predilections as well as the social, familial, and financial devastation that they cause her. The true arc of the story, however, begins with her meeting the man she will come to know as Erastes; her lover, teacher, master, and soulmate. As Erastes guides Ancilla through a journey of spiritual self-determination and rebirth, which primarily occurs through a hybrid variety of Kabbalistic magick, their relationship deepens as well. Ancilla discovers the ways in which pain and submission are her path to enlightenment, as well as how the line between suffering and ecstasy is so easily blurred – if there at all. As Erastes teaches Ancilla the art of forging her own destiny however, it results in her greatest suffering yet. The most compelling moments within Ancilla are those between the protagonist and her lover. Drake approaches the power differential of their BDSM relationship as dominant and submissive, as well as their spiritual relationship as teacher and student, with surprising nuance and tenderness. Erastes subverts the stereotypical depictions of a male dominant, and demonstrates how consent and care are foundational to even the most extreme expressions of passion. Drake continuously underscores the fact that while there is incredible pleasure for both parties in the performance of these asymmetric relationships, they are also a means to an end. Namely, Ancilla’s ability to be a teacher and guide for others. Beneath the continual negotiation of a relationship that is entrenched in the particularities of BDSM subculture and Thelemic sex magick, there are conversations that anyone can relate to. What happens when one partner is unable to meet the needs of another? How is trust necessary for exploration? How do we reconcile personal ambitions with interpersonal commitments? Drake’s approach to these debates through the lens of consensual power imbalance makes for refreshing answers to age-old questions. While the historical, philosophical, and spiritual topics covered in Ancilla certainly provide depth to the relationship dynamics that Drake is exploring, they also detract from the book’s accessibility to a wider audience. Those not previously familiar with Hellenic myths, Arthurian literature, psychoanalytic philosophy, or the traditions of the Hermetic order of the Golden Dawn, may find themselves struggling to follow Ancilla’s conversations and internal monologue. This is a shame, considering that much of Ancilla and Erastes’ romance can be found in their intellectual sparring, and Ancilla’s spiritual journey is directly understood through the Kabbalistic Tree of Life. Drake does include an afterword on the book’s structure around Kabbalah, an appendix for Greek and Latin translations, a reading list, and an illustration gallery, all of which some readers may find helpful in digesting the more theoretical content. Others may balk at what could feel like a homework assignment. Despite these hurdles, even the most novice layman can find something to enjoy in Drake’s tantalizing story of love, passion, and spiritual deliverance. Historical erotica nerds, eat your heart out. Previous Next