Learn more about Tom Latham < Back Tom Latham The Grappler’s Grace: Dr. Tom Latham’s Journey from the Mat to the Manuscript In the humid wrestling rooms of Brazilian public schools and across the vast reaches of the Amazon, one man has spent half a century proving that faith is the ultimate endurance sport. To his friends, he is Tom; to his congregation, he is Pastor Thomas; but to a growing audience of readers, he is Dr. Tom Latham: a missionary, a coach, and now, a prolific author whose life story reads like the very adventure novels he pens. After 80 years of life and 50 years on the mission field, Dr. Latham is celebrating a “divine miracle:” the transition from a desk piled with seventy unpublished manuscripts to a published library. His latest release, “Brazilian Adventures,” serves as the crown jewel of this collection, offering a captivating blend of action, cultural exploration, and profound spiritual reflection. In his new book, “Brazilian Adventures,” Latham takes readers on a breathtaking trek through the Amazon, the arid semi-desert, and the rugged Gaucho territories. It is a must-read for fans of Christian fiction, seamlessly weaving “historical fiction” based on true local stories with the vibrant landscapes of Brazil. From the wrestling mat to the printed page, Dr. Tom Latham continues to grapple with the big questions of faith, proving it is never too late to share your story with the world. The journey to authorship was not a sprint, but a marathon. Inspired decades ago while reading to his daughter, Kosy, Latham realized he had stories within him that needed to be told. He drafted the first of the “Shane Woods Series” by pencil and pad long before the age of computers. However, the path was met with rejection. One editor’s stinging critique questioning his qualifications to write silenced his pen for twenty-five years. “I accepted that writing would remain a hobby,” Latham reflects. But God had other plans. While traveling the U.S. to visit mission supporters, the spark returned. He began revising his work, adding the depth of character and emotional resonance that only decades of ministry could provide. The “miracle” arrived unexpectedly when a publisher, an alumnus of Latham’s own alma mater, offered to publish his work, funded by an anonymous donor. For a man who has seen God provide “out of the blue” in the heart of the jungle, it was a familiar grace. Discover more about Dr. Latham’s ministry and books at www.brazilwrestler.com . Share this article Facebook X (Twitter) WhatsApp LinkedIn Pinterest Copy link

< Back Mad Cave Studios' Papercutz Debuts Thematic Social Identity Graphic Novel Trio June 24, 2026 at 5:30:00 AM Papercutz, an imprint of Mad Cave Studios, has announced its 2026 late-summer lineup of debut graphic novels intertwining purposeful adventure with social-emotional character growth for younger readers. When it comes to fantastical narratives, Undercover Monster – Vol. 1 (ISBN: 978-1512483860 ) features a fresh take on the all-too-familiar adolescent “growing pains.” Set for release on August 11, 2026, the supernatural comedy by writers Alan C. Medina and Mina Elwell with artwork by Kit Wallis centers on Mia, a monster who has been kicked out of every supernatural academy in existence. Forced undercover into her toughest assignment yet—a regular human school—Mia must navigate standard tweenage pressures while hunting down a predatory creature hidden among her classmates. Coupled with high-stakes humor, Mia navigates readers through the social spaces of isolation and identity. Also scheduled for publication on August 11, 2026, is Emily Kado – Vol. 1: The Spiders’ Secret (ISBN: 978-1512483891), both written and illustrated by Antoine Dodé. When young Emily discovers her best friend is not home (but greeting her at the door is a house full of frightening things), she embarks on an unexpected journey. Guided by a helpful insect companion, Emily learns to confront her deep-seated phobias of spiders, the dark, and clowns. This uplifting children’s adventure serves as an encouraging exploration of mental resilience and imagination, championing the universal idea that courage can be found at any age. Closing out the catalog is Jane American – Vol. 1 (ISBN: 978-1512483921), a deeply personal, Ringo Award-winning World War II coming-of-age story written by Jason Douglas with art by Annie Wright. When society determines Jane’s mother can no longer work as a “Rosie the Riveter,” Jane must step up as her family is upended by wartime tragedy. This all-ages historical tale explores identity, gender roles, self-worth, and standing up for what is right. Reported by Jessica Shih Share this article Copy link LinkedIn Facebook X (Twitter) WhatsApp Pinterest

< Back The ANZ Publishing Landscape July 7, 2026 at 5:57:29 AM The Australia and New Zealand (ANZ) book publishing industry has demonstrated stable performance driven by robust local narratives, cross-Tasman structural transformations, and high per-capita consumer engagement. Total combined annual book sales revenue across the two nations safely surpasses A$1.58 billion. According to official market snapshots provided by NielsenIQ BookData , the Australian book market experienced an upward trajectory, closing at a valuation of A$1.30 billion. This represents a value increase of 3.2% compared to the previous year, recovering fully from the minor 3% contraction noted during the broader retail adjustments. Volume sales within Australia expanded by 1.4% , translating to approximately 70 million books sold within a single calendar year. While higher average shelf prices contributed modestly to the absolute value increase, steady volume metrics underscore a durable book-buying habit within the Australian public. Adult Fiction remains a significant economic engine, consistently generating hundreds of millions of dollars in value. Meanwhile, specialized promotions such as Black Friday have institutionalized high-velocity trading periods; Black Friday week volume sales regularly spike 40% above standard weekly baselines, moving upwards of 2.05 million units within a seven-day window. The Children’s and Young Adult (CYA) sector is an area of intense market activity, growing by 8% in value to reach A$395.9 million, supported by a 4% growth in total volume (32.6 million units). Within this sector, structural deviations are evident: Young Adult (YA) Fiction: Surged dramatically, posting a 20% value increase to reach A$44.0 million, driven heavily by demographic communities on digital platforms and a rising average selling price of A$19.51. Children's Picture Books: Expanded by 11% in unit volume to 7.1 million units, yielding a total market value of A$80.3 million. Children's Fiction: Remains the largest single CYA asset class by value at A$90.7 million, despite enduring marginal volume softening (-5%) as consumer preferences migrated toward graphic novels and non-fiction activity formats. The Publishers Association of New Zealand Te Rau o Tākupu ( PANZ ) Market Size Report highlights total publishing revenue increased by 1.8% to NZ$287.4 million, while total volume rose by 2.4% to 18.6 million books sold annually. The defining narrative of the New Zealand sector is the aggressive growth of homegrown intellectual property. Domestic revenue rose by a remarkable 6.1% to NZ$54.3 million, while export earnings from local titles achieved a 4.3% expansion to reach NZ$15.1 million. Māori language and bilingual publishing have moved firmly from a niche category to a central financial and cultural pillar of the Aotearoa market. In the latest annualized tracking period, sales of Māori language publications reached 328,000 units, marking a third consecutive year of sustained volume growth. This unique segment highlights a systemic consumer commitment to indigenous cultural preservation and educational literacy. The commercial infrastructure of ANZ publishing has undergone rapid evolution. The independent publishing tier has experienced intense consolidation . Key independent mainstays have been absorbed by global conglomerates looking to secure localized market share: notable acquisitions include Affirm Press integrated into Simon & Schuster Australia, and Pantera Press acquired by prominent independent network Hardie Grant. On the retail front, booksellers have adapted creatively to regulatory and structural shifts. Following domestic institutional changes—such as the implementation of youth social media restrictions —major retailers like QBD Books reported instant changes in consumer engagement , noting immediate double-digit increases in physical store foot traffic and a 30% year-on-year surge in secondary analog categories like puzzles and physical activities. Reported by Printed Word Reviews Share this article Copy link LinkedIn Facebook X (Twitter) WhatsApp Pinterest

< Back OverDrive Acquires divibib to Unify Onleihe and Libby for Libraries Across the DACH Region August 12, 2026 at 6:58:27 AM Digital library leader OverDrive has officially entered into a partnership with ekz-Group and acquired divibib GmbH, the ekz-Group subsidiary behind Onleihe, from ekz.bibliotheksservice GmbH. The landmark agreement brings together two major digital lending forces to create a unified reading experience for public libraries and readers across Germany, Austria, Switzerland, and neighboring German-speaking regions. Under the new partnership, libraries and readers currently using divibib’s Onleihe platform—a staple in DACH public libraries since 2007—will eventually transition onto OverDrive’s Libby platform, where Printed Word Reviews magazine can be found. The integration will streamline digital library services into a single platform, giving patrons access to an expansive combined catalog of German-language and international e-books, audiobooks, newspapers, and magazines without requiring libraries to manage separate systems. The acquisition significantly strengthens OverDrive’s footprint in Europe. OverDrive has served the DACH region for over a decade and recently established its European headquarters, OverDrive Europe GmbH, in Munich. Meanwhile, divibib will remain headquartered in Reutlingen, maintaining its regional presence throughout the transition. In 2025 alone, OverDrive’s existing network of over 600 partner libraries in the DACH region recorded nearly 10 million digital checkouts through Libby. Bringing Onleihe's established user base into the fold unites two of the region's largest digital reading communities. “Our vision is simple,” said Claudia Weissman, Geschäftsführerin of OverDrive Europe GmbH. “Onleihe has earned the trust of libraries over almost twenty years, and that trust is incredibly valuable. Our commitment is to preserve what matters most about Onleihe while bringing libraries the technology, innovation, and scale of Libby. Libraries will no longer have to choose between trusted local expertise and world-class technology. They will have both.” For patrons and librarians, the migration to Libby promises a seamless user experience backed by robust technology, enhanced accessibility, and a vastly expanded selection of digital materials. For publishers, the single combined network opens up broader reach across European library systems. The acquisition also allows the ekz-Group to refocus on its core services for public libraries, including physical media processing, library furniture, and equipment design. Pierre Bourdon, Geschäftsführer of ekz.bibliotheksservice GmbH, will take on an additional role as Senior Advisor DACH for OverDrive going forward. “Combining our local expertise and expansive German catalog across e-books, audiobooks, and newspapers with OverDrive’s world-class technology, catalog, and team will result in a better experience for both readers and libraries,” Bourdon noted. “This partnership also enables us at ekz to focus on our core services for libraries, specifically physical media processing, furniture, and equipment.” OverDrive and ekz-Group emphasized that existing Onleihe users will experience uninterrupted access to digital lending services throughout the transition period. The companies plan to reach out directly to library partners in the coming weeks to outline transition timelines, platform migration details, and dedicated support resources available to staff and readers. Reported by Printed Word Reviews / Ted Olczak Share this article Copy link LinkedIn Facebook X (Twitter) WhatsApp Pinterest

Book review of The Clometheons by Kenneth J. Goin . ISBN: 979-8892219242 < Back The Clometheons Kenneth J. Goin Fantasy, Paranormal, Literary Fulton Books Share this review: Copy link Facebook LinkedIn X (Twitter) WhatsApp Pinterest In a race against time, a woman grappling with the trauma of a lightning strike must confront an otherworldly entity and her own fears to uncover the truth behind a mysterious light, while navigating the complexities of immortality and the weight of her choices. Kenneth J. Goin’s debut “The Clometheons” merges the intensity of a psychological thriller with an interdimensional fantasy. Ideal for readers who appreciate an introspective protagonist navigating both internal trauma and supernatural peril, this novel offers a unique, suspenseful journey. The story begins with a remote, cottage-like house consumed by a violent, tumultuous storm. The storm acts as a catalyst, shaking the protagonist's physical world while mirroring the anxiety and traumatic memories that plague her. This initial atmosphere of isolation and psychological distress provides the launchpad for the supernatural chaos that follows. The protagonist, Jenelle, is introduced in a state of terror, her fear compounded by inexplicable phenomena—a rifle shot, a house fire triggered by lightning, and a strange, pulsing light in the valley. Despite her intense vulnerability, Jenelle's strong curiosity drives her to investigate, leading her to a glowing orb and a life-altering proposition: immortality in exchange for accepting five "Absolutes." This concept elevates her conflict. Jenelle's struggle is not just against external threats, but against the very nature of her new, immortal existence and the unbendable, unforgiving rules that govern it. Her journey becomes an exploration of resilience, forcing her to understand new powers while protecting the loved ones she fears she may outlive or endanger. The plot accelerates as Jenelle grapples with her new reality. The introduction of Stitch, a mysterious doll possessing healing powers, adds a mystical layer to her support network. Together, they navigate a series of escalating supernatural events, culminating in the confrontation with the bringer, an entity seeking to disrupt the balance of good and evil. Goin maintains suspense and mystery throughout. The blending of Jenelle's personal, psychological journey with the high-stakes cosmic conflict—the threat to Earth itself—keeps the reader engaged. The supernatural elements feel less like simple additions and more like direct consequences of the interdimensional forces Jenelle has unknowingly tapped into. The climax is a tense confrontation where Jenelle and her allies use their wits and newfound abilities to trap the bringer. However, the novel avoids a neat, final resolution. The conclusion leaves Jenelle, Stitch, and their companions united in their determination to maintain the balance, but with lingering uncertainty about what the future holds. This ending is a powerful choice, ensuring that the stakes remain high and setting the stage for a subsequent book. Previous Next

Book review of Vatican Daughter by Joni Marie Iraci . ISBN: < Back Vatican Daughter Joni Marie Iraci Historical Fiction, Thriller, Secrets Collective Ink/Round fire Books Share this review: Copy link Facebook LinkedIn X (Twitter) WhatsApp Pinterest 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. "Vatican Daughter" plunges readers into the secretive world of the Church, masterfully blending historical intrigue with profound religious themes and complex family dynamics, all set against the breathtaking backdrops of Venice and Vatican City. Brimming with hidden agendas and the lengths people will go to silence their sins, it’s a story that spans over a decade, starting from the election of the very first American Pope. The core of "Vatican Daughter" ignites with a revelation involving a future pope Joseph Morris that sets off a chain of events spanning twelve years. We meet Sophia Mariana Travato, a woman in Venice living with a lost past. But when a familiar sensation triggers a flood of memories, Sophia remembers a profound connection and a child. This revelation ignites a burning desire to find her daughter, Nevaeh, setting Sophia on a perilous path toward Rome, where she suspects her past might be waiting. As Sophia's journey unfolds, it becomes clear she's not the only one navigating a treacherous landscape. Within the hallowed halls of the Vatican, a young girl possesses a unique understanding of ancient scriptures, a knowledge that makes her a target. Powerful figures within the Church see her as a threat to their interests, such as Cardinal Roselli, the Machiavellian figure driven by ambition, self-preservation and fear. The arrival of an inquisitive journalist Chris DeMarco only adds to the escalating tension, promising to uncover long-buried truths that could shake the very foundations of power. The novel builds to a compelling climax where secrets are finally unveiled, and the threads of destiny begin to intertwine. Amidst growing pressures within the Vatican, a mother's determination to reclaim her life and protect her child takes center stage. The resolution promises to reveal the extent of the cover-ups and the lengths to which individuals will go to maintain control, leaving readers contemplating the true cost of hidden sins and the fight for accountability. The narrative is brought to life by a memorable cast of characters, each playing a pivotal role in the unfolding drama: from the Pope whose past ignites the conflict, to the determined mother seeking her child, to the powerful figures within the Vatican with their own agendas, and the sharp-witted journalist poised to expose the truth. "Vatican Daughter" is a gripping tale of secrets, sin, sacrifice, and the relentless pursuit of justice and redemption. It’s a compelling read for anyone fascinated by the intricate dance between power, faith, and personal conviction. The novel's intricate plot and complex characters promise to captivate readers interested in the depths of human nature and the lengths to which individuals will go to protect their secrets and loved ones. Previous Next

Book review of Savage Malice by Kit Karson . ISBN: < Back Savage Malice Kit Karson Murder Investigation, Cult, Crime, Ranching Granite Mountain Press Share this review: Copy link Facebook LinkedIn X (Twitter) WhatsApp Pinterest In a small Montana town, Sheriff Peter Elliott must unravel a web of cattle mutilations, a mysterious disappearance, and a murder tied to a sinister cult, all while confronting his own haunting past. A Gripping Mystery in Big Sky Country Kit Karson's fifth book in The Anderson Chronicles, “Savage Malice,” A Sheriff Elliot Mystery is a mystery thriller that blends a classic crime investigation with eerie, almost supernatural, undertones. Set in the quiet, expansive landscape of a small Montana town, the novel is a perfect read for anyone who appreciates a well-crafted plot, a steady build of suspense, and characters that feel genuinely real. The story drops us right into Anderson, Montana, where Sheriff Peter Elliott is faced with a baffling case: a ranch hand, Kenny Skinner, has been brutally murdered, and a local man, Andrew Geary, has vanished. The initial investigation focuses on Andrew, who is described as a harmless eccentric with a strange obsession for cattle mutilations. As Sheriff Peter Elliott delves into Andrew's research, hoping to find a clue to his disappearance, the case quickly becomes personal when a member of his team, Deputy Helen, suffers a heart attack. Peter and his team uncover increasingly disturbing evidence. The helicopter search that revealed the chilling scene at the Geary homestead—mutilated animals and bizarre cult symbols, leads to a more mystery to solve. With the help of his brother, a pastor, Peter identifies the symbols and begins to suspect a connection between the cattle mutilations, Kenny's murder, and a local UFO cult led by a figure named Pharaoh. The investigation gains momentum with the addition of a new deputy, Nancy May, and a specialist in cults and animal torture, undercover investigator Marty Briscoe. The climax is a thrilling and intense sequence of events as the team raids a location known as Rustler's Roost. They discover secret tunnels and uncover evidence of a massive cattle rustling and meth production operation. The arrest of a local butcher and a twisted veterinarian, Garrett Thomas, brings a shocking resolution to the murders and the gruesome mutilations. Though the primary mystery is solved, the story leaves a final poignant twist: Andrew is found wandering the streets, but he's suffering from a complete psychotic break. The book concludes by bringing justice to the victims and a measure of peace back to the community, while leaving a lasting, emotional impact on the characters. “Savage Malice” is more than just a crime story; it's a deep dive into themes of justice, community, and how the past can haunt the present. The intricate plot keeps you on the edge of your seat, and the character-driven narrative ensures you're invested in the personal journeys of Peter and his team. This is a must-read for fans of mystery and suspense who are looking for a story with both thrills and heart. Previous Next

Book review of ROADS NOT TAKEN by T. A. Keenleyside . ISBN: 978-1938462719 < Back ROADS NOT TAKEN T. A. Keenleyside General Fiction Old Stone Press Share this review: Copy link Facebook LinkedIn X (Twitter) WhatsApp Pinterest Amidst the chaos of 20th-century war zones, two journalists navigate the perils of their profession and the complexities of love, grappling with the choices that define their lives and relationships. "Roads Not Taken" is a dramatic novel that explores the complexities of human relationships, the dangers of journalism, and the lasting effects of the choices we make, set against significant 20th-century historical events. The main aspects of the story take place in various global locations, including Selma, Alabama, Prague, and Toronto, spanning from the 1960s to the late 20th century. The novel begins with journalists Peggy Mortimer and Alistair Parker covering the violent Civil Rights march in Selma, Alabama, in 1965. Their professional relationship is tested by the constant danger they face, leading to conflicts over the risks they take. Alistair's cautious nature, shaped by his childhood experiences, influences his approach to journalism and his interactions with Peggy. The story also introduces Virginia Sloan, whose life intersects with Alistair's during a Model United Nations event, marking the beginning of a significant relationship. As the story progresses, Alistair and Peggy's bond deepens through their shared experiences covering major global events, including: - The Six-Day War - The Vietnam War - The Soviet invasion of Czechoslovakia Their relationship faces challenges due to their differing views on the risks involved in their work and the personal sacrifices they make. Alistair's cautious nature and Peggy's determination to report the truth create tension, but they continue to support each other professionally and personally. The novel reaches its climax with Peggy's death during the Soviet invasion of Afghanistan, leaving Alistair devastated and struggling with guilt and grief. He returns to Singapore to recover and later delivers Peggy's ashes to her mother in Montreal. Alistair's subsequent travel writing career takes him to various locations, but he misses the excitement of covering major news stories. He eventually accepts a travel writing position in Paris, where he meets Marianne, a former model. Their relationship blossoms but ends when Marianne joins Médecins Sans Frontières in Ethiopia and falls in love with a French doctor. Ginny's Alzheimer's diagnosis brings challenges, but Alistair cares for her until her death. Alistair finds solace in honoring Ginny's memory and the values they shared, continuing to seek meaning and connection in his later years. The novel concludes with Alistair determined to write his autobiography chronicling his career as a foreign correspondent in the hope that it might encourage some readers to become active in supporting international organizations dealing with the the issues he covered as a journalist. Previous Next

Book review of Last of the Autumn Rain by Diana Louise Webb . ISBN: 979-8890223432 < Back Last of the Autumn Rain Diana Louise Webb Psychological thriller, literary, mental health, friendship, trauma Speaking Volumes, LLC Share this review: Copy link Facebook LinkedIn X (Twitter) WhatsApp Pinterest After witnessing her best friend's tragic death during a chaotic dance floor collapse, a young woman grapples with guilt and betrayal as she unravels dark secrets from their past, leading her to assume a new identity and confront the haunting consequences of her choices. Diana Louise Webb's Last of the Autumn Rain, the first installment in the Broken Reflections series, is a psychological thriller that uses the backdrop of the early 1980s to explore the corrosive effects of trauma and the complex journey of self-discovery. The main protagonist wrestles with grief, a traumatic past, and a desperate need for reinvention. The narrative offers a dramatic exploration of friendship and betrayal, set primarily between the bustling city of Milwaukee, Wisconsin, and the protagonist’s planned retreat to Trenton, New Jersey. Webb crafts a compelling atmosphere, pulling the reader into the protagonist's headspace as they navigate memories spanning from a childhood marked by strict parental expectations to a successful career at The Walden Company. The book is ideal for readers interested in psychological narratives and stories that delve into the complexities of human relationships and mental health, utilizing a non-linear structure that effectively builds suspense. The story kicks off with a shocking event: the death of the protagonist's best friend, Candice Wentworth. Candice, described as a vibrant and effervescent personality, falls through a glass floor into electrified water. This catastrophic loss serves as the core catalyst, shattering the protagonist's present and forcing an intense reflection on their deep, formative friendship and the darker corners of their shared past. The book weaves together the protagonist's past traumas with their current emotional upheaval. Key to this section is the exploration of a strained teenage friendship with Mandy Jo Boliver, which culminates in a terrifying, life-altering trip to Juárez, Mexico. The protagonist’s near-kidnapping and subsequent escape from Mandy Jo’s cartel connection powerfully shape their resilience and determination. However, the protagonist remains deeply haunted by lingering trauma. The conclusion is a dramatic and satisfying twist of liberation. They begin to piece together Candice’s secret life, uncovering her involvement in a mysterious heist. The protagonist determines the true events leading to Candice's death and makes a final, decisive choice, which marks the ultimate self-discovery and liberation. The ending is poignant, offering a complete break from the past while honoring the complexity of the friendship that shaped them. Diana Louise Webb has crafted a sophisticated psychological thriller that provides more than just suspense—it delivers a profound look at grief, survival, and the fluid nature of identity. Highly recommended for fans of character-driven psychological narratives. Previous Next

< Back Increasing Censorship in US Public Libraries, PEN America Report Warns September 14, 2026 at 5:21:09 AM On September 1st, PEN America released a report titled “ Out of Circulation : Expanding Censorship in Public Libraries.” As the headline suggests, the report details how public pressure campaigns and political efforts have led to an increase in censorship within US public libraries since 2021. The project comes out of PEN’s larger efforts to track book bans across the United States. The organization defines book bans as “any action taken against a book based on its content” that leads to the partial or complete removal of a book’s availability. While the report describes how censorship methods used by politicians and public pressure campaigns are certainly not limited to straightforward book bans, the underlying goal of diminishing accessibility remains the same. Most often these censorship efforts target titles that deal with themes of race, gender, or LGBTQ+ identity. The effect is thus to “disproportionately limit representation of historically marginalized groups.” ALA president Maria McCauley in speaking about the PEN America’s September 1st report, emphasized the importance of raising awareness about censorship in public libraries: “By bringing greater attention to issues such as censorship, harassment, and political pressure, this reporting helps inform the public about what is at stake when library professionals’ ability to serve all people is undermined.” The report discusses censorship in public libraries in terms of operational, administrative, and personnel based attacks. The operational tactics that PEN outlines are direct means of restricting a community’s access to books. Removal of book displays, cancellation of storytimes and author events, and outright book bans are all instances of censorship that the report describes occurring across the US. Reshelving mandates, or “aging up,” certain titles in order to restrict access for the books’ intended demographic, is another common means of censorship in public libraries. Kasey Meehan , director of PEN’s Freedom to Read program, emphasized that this tactic is one she has seen used more frequently over the past two years. PEN’s research outlines how administrative policies are what pave the way for these operational censorship efforts. The report describes instances where state governments have made library funding dependent on adhering to ideologically biased guidelines. Other cases include the passage of laws that allow for discretionary hiring and firing of library leadership. The report asserts that, in tandem with the aforementioned operational tactics, these actions serve as “attempts to dismantle and disrupt broader library systems.” As the personnel primarily responsible for library collections, book displays, and the implementation of board policies, librarians often face the brunt of censorship campaigns in public libraries. Along with policies of at-will termination, the PEN report lists numerous instances of librarians facing verbal, physical, and sexual harassment from members of the public. Additionally, librarians have experienced deprofessionalization as state governments target the American Library Association (ALA), accusing it of operating with a biased, progressive agenda. Meehan pointed out that the PEN report is “unique” in its ability to detail the ways that the ALA has been targeted, as the ALA is not necessarily able to do so itself. While “Out of Circulation” is not the first report that PEN has released on book banning efforts, it is the first that has focused on public libraries. Through its Banned in the USA series, the organization has released numerous reports since 2021 that highlight censorship campaigns in public schools. Other organizations, such as the ALA and the EveryLibrary Institute , have long released articles on censorship efforts in US public libraries, and Meehan described how PEN’s prior focus on public schools was intended to address the fact that there wasn’t anyone tracking censorship in that space. After receiving additional funding, PEN was able to put together this report on censorship in public libraries. Printed Word Reviews / Reported by Bridgette Nally Share this article Copy link LinkedIn Facebook X (Twitter) WhatsApp Pinterest

< Back Printed Word Reviews Welcomes Journalist Jules Roscoe as News Reporter June 22, 2026 at 5:24:52 AM Printed Word Reviews , a leading independent voice in literary criticism, cultural insight, and industry analysis, is thrilled to announce the addition of independent journalist Jules Roscoe to its editorial team as a news reporter for the summer. Roscoe brings experience in high-impact investigative reporting, digital media, and public-interest journalism. Known for coverage spanning technology, labor unions, AI developments, censorship, and political accountability, Roscoe’s residency is poised to expand and elevate Printed Word Reviews’ expanding investigative and industry news reporting. “We are incredibly excited to welcome Jules to the team this summer,” said Ted Olczak, publisher of Printed Word Reviews . “Jules has a track record of breaking stories and holding powerful entities accountable. As the intersection of literature, technology, and media continues to shift rapidly, Jules’s sharp reportorial eye and dedication to public-service journalism will be invaluable to our readership.” An independent journalist, Roscoe approaches journalism as an essential public service. Roscoe’s work has appeared in major publications, including WIRED , 404 Media , VICE News , HuffPost , and Matter News . From uncovering localized political spending to reporting on the deep-sea fishing industry’s fight for digital connectivity and AI-driven scams, Roscoe brings an eclectic, rigorous approach to modern news reporting. “Everyone deserves free, reliable access to information about the world around them so they can make their own informed decisions,” said Roscoe. “That’s how I approach all of my work. So I’m excited to join Printed Word Reviews and dig deeper into publishing, whether that’s to explore global shifts in the industry or uncover underreported angles in media and culture.” During the seasonal tenure, Roscoe will focus on generating breaking news and feature reporting that is shaping the written word today. Publishers, independent creators, and publicists are encouraged to reach out directly to Jules Roscoe at News@PrintedWordReviews.com . About Printed Word Reviews Printed Word Reviews, https://printedwordreviews.com/ , is a trusted international print and digital publication dedicated to insightful, comprehensive, and honest literary criticism. Cultivating a community of avid readers, authors, and industry professionals, the outlet covers a diverse array of genres, ranging from contemporary fiction and memoirs to historical non-fiction and poetry. With a steadfast commitment to elevating exceptional storytelling, Printed Word Reviews highlights both best-selling masterpieces and hidden indie gems, serving as a vital bridge between brilliant authors and passionate readers. Printed Word Reviews is published monthly and registered with the U.S. ISSN Center at the Library of Congress in Washington, D.C. with the ISSN 3067-011X. About Jules Roscoe Jules Roscoe is an independent journalist covering how massive societal systems impact the everyday person. She has previously covered technology, science, and politics for various outlets around the U.S. A linguist by training, Jules has researched English, Bulgarian, Khmer, Latin, and Middle Welsh; she can fluently speak three languages and has reported in five. She cares about information accessibility and human connection. Outside of journalism, she works as a freelance nonfiction book editor, and if she’s not working, you can find her hiking in a national park or writing a short story. About BookCAMP BookCAMP is an annual event, https://www.pwrbookcamp.com/ , and five-times-yearly print magazine, https://www.printedwordreviews.com/bookcampmagazine (and published by Printed Word Reviews), dedicated to empowering independent authors, hybrid publishers, and independent presses. BookCAMP serves as a comprehensive business and marketing ecosystem that helps creators navigate the modern book market. Through editorial features and an intensive multi-day annual conference near New York City, BookCAMP bridges the gap between creative writing and operational success. It provides actionable education on full-service national and nontraditional distribution, AI-driven content and marketing, multi-platform adaptations, and strategic networking, equipping indie authors and publishers with the exact tools needed to scale their sales, reach brick-and-mortar shelves, and build sustainable publishing careers and businesses. Reported by Printed Word Reviews Share this article Copy link LinkedIn Facebook X (Twitter) WhatsApp Pinterest

Book review of A One-way Ticket to Inner Peace by Tina Mellgren . ISBN: 9789189423268 < Back A One-way Ticket to Inner Peace Tina Mellgren Mindboozt Share this review: Copy link Facebook LinkedIn X (Twitter) WhatsApp Pinterest Originally published in Swedish, Tina Mellgren’s A One-Way-Ticket to Inner Peace is one woman’s guide to finding balance and fulfillment in a world of stress and self-doubt. A One-Way-Ticket to Inner Peace is many things rolled into one. Part poetry collection, part personal memoir, and part self-help guide, this book offers readers a starting point for their own journey towards a “balanced inner-self.” The book is divided into two parts. Mellgren titles part one “The Understanding,” and in it she details common sources for stress, self-doubt, and other dysphoric emotions. She offers simplified explanations of human brain function in order to emphasize the fact that our thoughts and emotions happen for a reason, and can often be altered through simple environmental, physical, or habitual changes. Part two, called “The Change” is where Mellgren offers everyday exercises and mindset shifts that can aid in achieving this sought-after inner harmony. Each chapter is bookended by an original poem by Mellgren that speaks to the struggles or enlightenment that she is exploring. Throughout the book, Mellgren returns often to her own journey to find inner peace and the many challenges she faced along the way. She begins and ends the book with the same sentiment: “I don’t have all the answers, but I can offer you a piece of your own puzzle… It’s not about the speed; it’s about finding your way, the one that brings you peace within.” One-Way-Ticket is an earnest, personal text that is useful for anyone trying to be more intentional about their thought patterns and emotional regulation. Mellgren’s text is accessible, and the anecdotes she uses from her own life provide an entry-point of relatability. For anyone who has not previously engaged with books or other media that can be categorized as self-help or personal betterment, One-Way-Ticket is a great place to start. One-Way-Ticket offers one woman’s personal experience, which is valuable on its own. The reassurance that Mellgren herself has achieved inner peace, emphasized through the fact that writing this book is only something she was able to do once she overcame her own self-doubt, is the greatest gift that readers will receive from A One-Way-Ticket to Inner Peace. Previous Next