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

Book review of THE TILTED PALACE: Weeds of Misfortune by Paul Kluge . ISBN: 9798292829201 < Back THE TILTED PALACE: Weeds of Misfortune Paul Kluge Vietnam War, survival, camaraderie, sacrifice, redemption 9781977279859 ISBN: Independently published Share this review: Copy link Facebook LinkedIn X (Twitter) WhatsApp Pinterest A haunted Vietnam War veteran finds unexpected companionship and a chance for redemption when a stray dog and a determined pastor disrupt his plans for solitude and self-destruction. Paul Kluge's The Tilted Palace: Weeds of Misfortune is an examination of the scars left by history on the individual soul. Set against the backdrop of Groton, Massachusetts, in 1990, the narrative primarily follows Jimmy Ray Crandall, a retired Army veteran. While the calendar marks fifteen years since the official end of the Vietnam War, for Jimmy Ray, the conflict remains a consuming, active presence, a private war fought daily in the hollow confines of his solitude. This book is tailored for readers interested in the psychological struggles of veterans. Kluge employs an introspective style that immerses the reader in Jimmy Ray’s internal landscape, making his lingering bitterness and quiet despair palpable. The Groton setting, a seemingly peaceful refuge, serves as an ironic contrast to the inner turmoil of its inhabitant, amplifying the veteran's sense of being marooned. The novel has a slow introduction of hope into a life characterized by stasis. Jimmy Ray’s isolation, fueled by the burden of war memories and deep-seated regrets, is abruptly interrupted on the war’s anniversary by the almost miraculous arrival of two entities: a stray dog and Trinity Hathaway, an ordained pastor. This unexpected trio forms the core dynamic of the story. The dog offers unconditional, silent companionship, while Trinity provides the necessary foil—a mirror and a challenge to Jimmy Ray’s emotional withdrawal. The core conflict is the veteran’s struggle against the emotional scars of his service. His interactions with Trinity and the stray dog are the first tentative steps away from the abyss. The narrative weaves between 1990s Massachusetts and visceral flashbacks to South Vietnam in the early 1960s. It is in these memories that we encounter Chang, a South Vietnamese villager whose parallel narrative of survival amidst political chaos and armed conflict deepens the theme. Chang's story prevents the narrative from becoming solely focused on the American experience, highlighting the universal toll of the war on all individuals caught in its wake. The slow, rough conversations between Jimmy Ray and Trinity are the heart of the novel. They expose his deep-seated anger and despair, but crucially, they also hint at the possibility of emotional healing. The narrative reaches its major turning points as Jimmy Ray moves toward the difficult decision to seek meaning in his life again, a decision directly fostered by Trinity’s unwavering, yet fragile, support. The true climax is internal, occurring when Jimmy Ray contemplates confronting his past directly. The stakes are raised as he must decide whether to return to Vietnam, a path of action encouraged by Trinity’s work with the NGO Save the Children. This choice serves as the breaking point, a necessary action to shatter the spell of his haunting memories. The ending is not a simple tying of ribbons but a contemplation of the future. Jimmy Ray is left with a sense of hope and the possibility of finding peace, not through forgetting, but through meaningful action. Trinity, equally transformed by their shared experience, embarks on her own journey of helping others. The Tilted Palace concludes by reflecting on the enduring effects of the Vietnam War on its veterans and asserts the importance of finding renewed purpose and connection in the aftermath of conflict. Kluge offers a necessary narrative about the possibility of light after darkness. Previous Next

Book review of A Funny Thing Happened on the Way to My Life by Laura Muirhead . ISBN: 9781763852648 < Back A Funny Thing Happened on the Way to My Life Laura Muirhead Biography, Self-Help, Wellness, Spirituality 9781977279859 ISBN: KMD Books Share this review: Copy link Facebook LinkedIn X (Twitter) WhatsApp Pinterest Facing life's surprises head-on, this resilient woman transforms obstacles into opportunities for her own growth and for empowering those around her. Laura Muirhead's title “A Funny Thing Happened on the Way to My Life“, a title wordplay on the musical, offers readers an inspiring narrative of personal growth and unwavering resilience without melodrama. Muirhead guides readers through her own journey from childhood to adulthood, sharing a tapestry of transformative experiences and invaluable life lessons that resonate. An easy read, Muirhead's life experiences share how gratitude and self-discovery can transform life's most daunting challenges into powerful opportunities. For anyone seeking insights into overcoming adversity, embracing the unexpected, and finding inner strength, this quick read is a beacon. The narrative opens with reflections on Muirhead's childhood in a Chicago suburb, painting a picture of her formative years shaped by a close-knit family and the wisdom of her grandmother. This idyllic beginning takes a pivotal turn with the emotional and logistical upheavals of her parents' divorce, a year that indelibly marked her early life. She recounts her teenage years, highlighting the crucial lessons imparted by her stepmother and the fierce determination that fueled her quest for independence. Muirhead's journey continues into adulthood, where she navigates a series of trials and triumphs that forge her remarkable resilience. Her twenties are marked by financial struggles and personal losses, experiences that, while difficult, ultimately shaped her character and resolve. A significant revelation about her biological father adds a layer of complexity to her quest for identity and understanding of family dynamics, leading to a deeper, more nuanced self-discovery. The book then chronicles her professional and personal evolution, from her ventures in business and real estate to a powerful artistic awakening. A devastating house fire, rather than being a setback, becomes a catalyst for profound personal and professional growth, underscoring her ability to extract lessons and opportunities from even the most challenging circumstances. In the concluding section, Muirhead reflects on her life, a testament to her accomplishments and a strong sense of purpose. She emphasizes the critical importance of setting healthy boundaries, seizing opportunities, and cultivating a positive mindset. Rich with anecdotes about her relationships, business endeavors, and creative pursuits, these reflections offer a multifaceted view of a life lived with intention and grace. At its core, the book's central thesis champions the transformative power of resilience and gratitude in navigating life's inevitable challenges. Muirhead provides compelling evidence through her personal experiences, demonstrating how each obstacle she faced became a stepping stone for growth and profound transformation. What sets this book apart is its personal and relatable account of overcoming adversity, making it a resource for anyone seeking inspiration, practical guidance, and a renewed sense of hope. This book is for individuals grappling with personal or professional challenges, those captivated by stories of resilience and self-discovery, and particularly women seeking empowerment and practical advice. Readers will find Laura Muirhead's journey not only inspiring but also instructive, offering timeless lessons on how to embrace life's twists and turns with grace, strength, and an enduring spirit of gratitude. Previous Next

< Back Librarian Terri Lesley's First Amendment Battle Ends in $700,000 Settlement Over LGBTQ+ Book Dispute Reported by Printed Word Reviews 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. Share this article Copy link LinkedIn Facebook X (Twitter) WhatsApp Pinterest

Learn more about Aurita Maldonado < Back Aurita Maldonado Aurita Maldonado author signing at ALA, Table 1652, on Saturday, June 28th, at 2:30pm Society has become a place where combat veterans would rather commit suicide than live. Many who “have it all” are discovering that they still feel miserable but can’t figure out why. They feel powerless under the boredom of what society deems necessary. Aurita Maldonado is a Puerto Rican woman warrior and Afro Latin dance instructor who chose a different path before and after her two combat tours in Afghanistan and Iraq. She received a Purple Heart for wounds received in Afghanistan before leaving the Army to align her thoughts, words, and actions. She adopted a new mission: cultivate peace, happiness, and learn to become her own best friend. All while learning to live as one with Mother Earth. Aurita rejected lucrative government jobs, sold her possessions, and moved to Haines, Alaska, in 2010 to begin her journey with PTSD and self-acceptance. An extreme athlete, she used movement to help her navigate the storms with a grin until she was suddenly paralyzed from the waist down ina fight against a deadly rat lungworm infection. The perspective shifts she adopted to continue to enjoy life while learning to use her body again will make you reassess your choices to settle for the status quo. This is an inspirational memoir of a remarkable woman’s journey to stumble in style as she navigates seemingly insurmountable tragedies early in life. It is a story of triumph and discipline. Joy and sorrow. A portrait of a Lady Hurricane dancing, both literally and figuratively as one with the storms of life. Share this article Facebook X (Twitter) WhatsApp LinkedIn Pinterest Copy link

Learn more about Xuemo < Back Xuemo Xue Mo Illuminating the Darkness: A Conversation with Ted Olczak I had the great privilege of sitting down with Xue Mo at this year’s London Book Fair. Xue Mo, formerly known as Chen Kaihong, was born in Liangzhou, Gansu province. Among other positions, Xue Mo is a cultural scholar, China's National First-class Writer, and Vice President of Gansu Writers Association. Xue Mo’s best known work is his Desert Trilogy. He dedicated 12 years to writing “Desert Rites”, the first novel in the series. It depicts the life of a typical rural family in China’s western provinces during the second half of the twentieth century. After it was published in 2000, Xue Mo became famous overnight. Following the critical and commercial success of “Desert Rites”, Xue Mo wrote “Desert Hunters”, a multi-character fable set around a watering hole known as the ‘Pig’s Belly Well’. The novel examines the conflict between humans and nature in their struggle for survival. The final novel in the trilogy, “White Tiger Pass”, explores the cultural psychology of people living in western China, and focuses around the lives of three women, Lan Lan, Ying and Yue – characters also encountered in his short story collection, “Selected Stories by Xue Mo”. His works are mainly characterized by the culture of western China and contain the essence of Oriental civilization. He is now focused on the theme of one’s ultimate Transcendence. In our conversation, Xue Mo emphasized that the power of love and wisdom can transform the world. Our conversation, through his translator, unveiled that readers seek happiness and respect through literature and that more published works can lead to a more balanced world. Xue Mo feels that writing can illuminate societal darkness and that cultural reflections are essential for understanding global issues. Despite widespread violence, hope persists in knowledge. In the end, the continued importance of writing, sharing messages, and engaging in conversations can inspire collective action. Here is a clip from our conversation: Ted Olczak: Could you elaborate on your philosophies regarding the relationship between woman and nature? What are the major effects on the world? Xue Mo: The world is engulfed in violence and conflict. Humanity requires a culture and spirit that transcends mere desires and materialism. We need a nurturing spirit akin to that of a mother, yet women often find themselves without a voice in these matters. The power of discourse in our world predominantly resides with men, who tend to favor violence, authority, and success. Consequently, the prevalence of violence and wars persists. Through my artistic endeavors, I aspire to awaken the feminine power within individuals. Since a mother would never send her child into battle; conversely, it is often men who take their sons to war. Thus, when the essence of maternal love becomes the prevailing force in society, the light of peace will descend upon the earth. This motivation drives me to write about feminine power—to ignite love within every heart. When love and wisdom become dominant forces globally, humanity will experience tranquility and happiness. Therefore, much of my writing centers on themes of love and wisdom. My readers are those who do not endorse violence but instead embody compassion and insight. It is my hope that both my readers and the broader world embrace these values—this aspiration was one reason why I go outside of China. Xue Mo emphasized that there is so much violence in the world, and his message of Love & Wisdom is an important one. Xue Mo: When human beings are valued by the world, the world will follow it. Although my works are not numerous, they are like a pile of fire in the darkness. When more books are published, we are balanced and the world will become more balanced. Ted Olczak: I think that's important, just like the 20th century writer Jack London, in The Call of the Wild , tells man against nature, so how we think about that in American terms, his influences in his book and how he thinks, how he reveals the relationship between woman and nature , and bring that out in the article. CULTURAL REFLECTIONS & GLOBAL PERSPECTIVE Ted Olczak: Does he think humans can receive the light of love and wisdom? Xue Mo 's Translator: He thinks they can. Xue Mo: Although most of my publications are [fiction], it can light a candle, like a starlight, it can light the darkness [in the] world. Ted Olczak: So does Xue Mo feel through his writings that he can show the light and the power of love and wisdom? And his wish to enlighten people, why would cultures see the wisdom in that? Why would people choose [love & wisdom] when there's so much glorification of violence and conflict and it's promoted by leaders in the Western world. How is his message of love and wisdom going to influence that darkness? Xue Mo: China has excellent culture that has never been able to come out. China's excellent culture has no voice in the world. This kind of discourse power is controlled by the West. But it is like a lighthouse in the dark sea. It cannot dispel the darkness, but it can bring hope. HOPE AMIDST DARKNESS Ted Olczak: Is he fearful of how the current violence is taking over the country? Does he feel that there's hope that people will receive this message? And does he see an event that could change this? Xue Mo: I can't change the world, but I can change my readers. Since the way we perceive the world through our minds shapes the reality within our mind. When our perspectives shift, the world transforms accordingly. When more of my readers change their minds, their world changes. If everyone becomes a reader and changes their mindset, the world will transform. Ted Olczak: Knowledge is power. (Translator: You're already changing yourself, ha ha). What's next? Xue Mo: I will definitely continue to write. And definitely you can influence all the people in your group. Just one light, one candle lighting one candle, light another candle…and we can light the world around us. The world is very dark. But our world is full of light. Ted Olczak: Let’s light candles together! Share this article Facebook X (Twitter) WhatsApp LinkedIn Pinterest Copy link

Learn more about T.V. Holiday < Back T.V. Holiday Travis Easter Author T.V. Holiday, "Legend of the Iron Warrior" series. T.V. Holiday brings a unique blend of personal experience and creative vision to his writing. A former United States Marine, Holiday infuses his work with a sense of realism and action. Residing now in Southern California, Holiday has crafted the "Legend of the Iron Warrior" series, beginning with "Slaying Paradise," which weaves superhero fiction with mythological and allegorical elements. His protagonist, Travis Holiday, a police officer turned hero, navigates a world of intense conflict, grappling with moral dilemmas and the struggle between good and evil. Through his work, T.V. Holiday explores themes of faith and morality, creating narratives that are both action-packed and thought-provoking. Share this article Facebook X (Twitter) WhatsApp LinkedIn Pinterest Copy link

Book review of Red Lines by James Bultema . ISBN: 9798988075158 < Back Red Lines James Bultema Military Fiction 9781977279859 ISBN: P.D. Publishing Share this review: Copy link Facebook LinkedIn X (Twitter) WhatsApp Pinterest In the wake of a devastating terrorist attack on Independence Hall, President Mark Taylor rallies the nation for a decisive military response against Iran, while a group of enraged veterans takes matters into their own hands, igniting a complex conflict that intertwines personal vendettas with geopolitical stakes. Red Lines: A New Military Thriller Explores the Gray Areas of Conflict In "Red Lines," a new military thriller, author James Bultema plunges readers into a world of high-stakes international conflict. The novel, written in a fast-paced, action-packed style, explores the complexities of modern warfare, examining themes of patriotism, resilience, and the sacrifices demanded by national security. The story ignites with a devastating terrorist attack on Independence Hall, leaving the nation reeling. In response, President Mark Taylor faces immense pressure to retaliate. As tensions escalate, the narrative unfolds across multiple fronts. On American soil, Joe Cartwright and his fellow veterans, driven by a raw sense of justice, take matters into their own hands, targeting local Lebanese gangs. In Iran: General Arman Shirvani, an ambitious military leader, aggressively pursues the country's nuclear ambitions, fueling the flames of conflict. In the political arena: The U.S. National Security Council grapples with agonizing decisions, weighing the potential consequences of military intervention against the need to protect national interests. The story follows a diverse cast of characters: Commander Mateo Navarro, leading his submarine crew on a perilous mission in the Persian Gulf. Major Navid Shadmani, an Iranian officer torn between loyalty to his country and his own moral compass. There is Lieutenant Brett Jansen, navigating the mine-infested waters of the Persian Gulf; Lieutenant Commander Sarah Freeman, facing personal and professional challenges aboard the USS Reagan; and CIA agent Dallas Steele, deep undercover in Iran, gathering crucial intelligence on the country's nuclear program. As the conflict intensifies, the story delivers pulse-pounding action sequences. SEAL Team 10 executes a daring mission to secure the Ahvaz Oil Field. Next, Lieutenant Commander Jessie Hampton commands aerial engagements with unwavering skill. Lastly, Iran's Supreme Leader, Ayatollah Amir Massad, orders a preemptive missile strike, pushing the world to the brink of war. The climax of the novel sees a series of coordinated U.S. military strikes that cripple Iran's infrastructure and military capabilities. This decisive action leads to significant shifts in Iranian leadership, with Dr. Amir Mehrabi emerging as a key figure advocating for democratic reforms. "Red Lines" is ideal for fans of military fiction, geopolitical thrillers, and stories of personal and national heroism. It offers a thought-provoking exploration of the moral dilemmas faced by individuals caught in the crossfire of international conflict, leaving readers with a lasting impression of the profound sacrifices demanded by the pursuit of peace and security. Previous Next

Book review of Average Civil Employee: A Novel of Bureaucratic Absurdities by Stephen Wallace . ISBN: < Back Average Civil Employee: A Novel of Bureaucratic Absurdities Stephen Wallace Bureaucracy, absurdity, government, frustration, identity, 9781977279859 ISBN: Share this review: Copy link Facebook LinkedIn X (Twitter) WhatsApp Pinterest APRIL PUB DATE: In a bureaucratic maze of absurdity, an average civil employee named Ace must navigate eccentric colleagues, community service obligations, and the chaos of government inefficiency while discovering resilience and humor in the face of overwhelming challenges. A Sharp, Sarcastic Love Letter to the “Paperwork Purgatory” Move over, Kafka—there’s a new architect of absurdity in town. In his latest book, Stephen J. Wallace swaps the high-stakes industrial grit of his previous work “Hazardous Lies” for a weaponized stapler and a stack of forms in triplicate. The result is a delightfully biting satire that feels less like a novel and more like an undercover exposé of the “Acronopoly” played in the halls of Washington, D.C. The story follows Ace, a man whose primary superpower is surviving the Monday-to-Friday grind of a federal agency without losing his mind. When his supervisor, aptly named Less, vanishes into the black hole of “leadership training,” Ace is thrust into the driver’s seat. What follows is a gauntlet of administrative absurdity. Tasked with managing a staff that treats the shared drive like a battlefield and colleagues who speak exclusively in acronyms, Ace is forced to lead an intervention on the one person he can't escape: himself. To keep his sanity, he documents the chaos in a personal journal—a device that provides some of the book’s most laugh-out-loud moments of self-reflection. Between dodging the watchful eye of his supervisor’s supervisor More of Less and trying to convince his skeptical alma mater that he’s not a total failure, Ace must navigate Acronopoly—a competitive sport of government jargon— and decipher the true intent when colleagues use language to say absolutely nothing. While the book is consistently funny, Wallace sneaks in a poignant message about resilience. Ace isn't trying to dismantle the system; he’s trying to navigate it with his soul intact. The “community service” and “intervention” subplots add a layer of personal growth that grounds the satire. By the time his direct supervisor Less returns from his training, the camaraderie shared between the two men feels earned. It’s a reminder that even in a broken system, the human connections are what keep the lights on. If you’ve ever lost a file in a shared drive, sat through a meeting that should have been an email, or wondered if your boss was actually a sophisticated AI programmed to generate acronyms, this book is for you. Wallace has traded “hazardous” chemicals for “hazardous” bureaucracy, and the result is a win for readers everywhere. Previous Next

< Back Seeing Through Her Eyes: A Conversation on The Female Gaze In Art & Photography with Australian author, Anita Selzer. Reported by Printed Word Reviews The Female Gaze in Art and Photography is about how twenty women artists from around the world create their artwork from a female experience and perspective, a female way of seeing and feeling. (Volume I is on contemporary women; Volume 2, deceased women artists; Volume 3 & 4 out this fall and 2026) The Female Gaze in Art and Photography is nuanced. It highlights how the female gaze differs to and challenges the dominant, historical male gaze that has underscored western art, idealising or sexually objectifying women, particularly in the nude. It shows how the female gaze reclaims the female body and form as a site of multiple meanings. It delivers examples of diverse visual images created by the women artists and photographers from their female way of seeing and feeling, including their psychological and subjective experiences then channeled into their art. The book (Volumes 1 and 2) also reveals how social issues are inscribed in the artworks. It provides a socio-historical context, referencing art history and offers biographical sketches of each creative. With a scholarly background and a passion for amplifying women’s voices, Australian Author Anita Selzer is redefining how we look at art—specifically through the lens of the female gaze. As an author, academic, and advocate for women in the arts, her The Female Gaze book series offers fresh and necessary perspectives on how women create and are seen in visual culture. We sat down with her to explore the inspiration, impact, and future of this important work. A Career Rooted in Education and Advocacy Before stepping into the world of publishing, Seltzer cultivated a rich academic and professional life. Holding a BA, Diploma of Education, Graduate Diploma in Women’s Studies, a Master’s in Education, and a PhD in Education, she has long been engaged with the intersections of gender, history, and learning. “I taught English and Politics to young and older adults at a college level,” she explains, “and served as Executive Officer in Women’s Affairs in the Premier’s Department in Victoria.” Her expertise also extended into publishing, reviewing books for Cambridge University Press and the academic journal Gender and Education. Currently Selzer channels this rich foundation into her writing, (an award winning author of fourteen adult and children’s nonfiction books) focusing on women, gender, history, education, biography—and most recently, art. Inspiration Behind The Female Gaze In Art & Photography The seed for The Female Gaze In Art & Photography was planted by Charlotte Jansen’s Girl on Girl , a book that examined how 40 women artists used the female gaze in photography. “[Jansen’s] book inspired me to extend the conversation and explore it further,” she says. “I wanted to create a coffee table book—something more expansive.” The Female Gaze was also personal. “[I] had to feel a connection to the work and the artists I selected,” she adds. Encouragement from close friend and fellow artist Jon Cattapan was pivotal. “He told me to give it a go and is now mentoring me.” Volume One: Creating Space for Women’s Perspectives Published as the first in a series, The Female Gaze In Art & Photography Volume One is more than a showcase—it’s a reclamation of space and narrative. “It provides visibility to women artists who have often been overlooked,” she explains. “The book explores how these creatives use their female perspective in the production of their work—something rarely discussed in other texts.” Unlike traditional art criticism that often filters women’s work through a male-dominated lens, this book centers the artist’s intention and lived experience. “These women see their female subjects as people, as agents—not as eroticized objects,” she says. “It shows that the female body can carry multiple meanings, interpreted through the multifarious female gaze.” The Female Gaze In Art & Photography Volume One earned the distinction of “ Winner” of the 2024 Independent Press Award in the Fine Arts Category. Looking Forward: Volume Two Arrives in 2025 Set to release in September 2025, The Female Gaze In Art & Photography Volume 2 builds on its predecessor while introducing a historical dimension. “It made sense to complement Volume One, which focused on contemporary artists, with a volume that looks at significant deceased female artists,” she says. “Both volumes can stand alone or be read together—they inform and enrich one another.” The Female Gaze In Art & Photography Volume 2 offers a reflective contrast, reminding us how long women have been shaping and challenging the visual narrative—even if their contributions have been sidelined. Professor Emma Redding, Director Victoria College of the Arts comments, “ The Female Gaze in Art and Photography Volume 2 is a remarkable exploration of creativity, perspective, and resilience. With stunning and thought-provoking images that resonate deeply, this book is both a visual and intellectual feast. The book not only showcases exceptional works by female artists and photographers but also sheds light on the social and institutional barriers they have faced across history. Selzer provides a compelling narrative that reveals how these challenges shaped their artistic journeys and contributions. Her insights illuminate the power and persistence of women in art.” Bridging Past and Present The duality between the two volumes is key. “Volume One captures the present, the here and now. Volume Two looks to the past, showing us how innovative and expressive women artists have always been when it comes to using the female gaze. The series reveals how social issues are inscribed in the artworks. It provides a socio-historical context, referencing art history and offers biographical sketches of each creative.” The Female Gaze volumes form a continuum—a reminder that women’s creative voices are both historical and ongoing. What Sets The Female Gaze Apart? While there are other books that celebrate women artists, few focus on how the female gaze actively informs their work. “[My books] explore this in detail,” she explains. “They also provide biographical insights and socio-historical context, giving readers a more holistic understanding.” This makes the series an essential resource for both the art world and general readers curious about the evolution of women’s voices in visual culture. “There’s a depth and nuance to how I discuss the female gaze that I haven’t seen elsewhere,” she says. A Glimpse Into Volume Three Looking ahead, The Female Gaze: Volume 3 is already in development. This installment will spotlight three significant Australian artists: Jane Sutherland, Emma Minnie Boyd, and Josephine Muntz-Adams. “It provides their biographies, explores how they used a female gaze in their art, and situates their work in its socio-historical context,” she shares. The aim is to continue deepening our understanding of how women have shaped art across time. With her Female Gaze series, Selzer is not only telling untold stories—she’s helping reshape the lens through which we view art. As each volume builds upon the last, it becomes clear that the female gaze is not a fleeting trend, but a vital, powerful perspective whose time has come. For more, you can view and listen to The GAB TALKS with Anita Selzer here: https://www.independentpressaward.com/thegabtalks/the-female-gaze-in-art-and-photography Share this article Copy link LinkedIn Facebook X (Twitter) WhatsApp Pinterest

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Book review of The Rabbi's Knight by Michael J Cooper . ISBN: 9798888248133 < Back The Rabbi's Knight Michael J Cooper Historical Fiction, Thriller; Crusades, historical adventure, Kabbala 9781977279859 ISBN: Koehler Books Share this review: Copy link Facebook LinkedIn X (Twitter) WhatsApp Pinterest In a world torn apart by the Crusades, a Knight Templar and a rabbi embark on a perilous journey to protect a sacred legacy, navigating treachery and faith as they seek to unlock the secrets of Kabbalah amidst the chaos of war. Set against the volatile backdrop of 1290, when the twilight of the Crusader states gave way to the rising power of the Mamluks, The Rabbi’s Knight delivers a richly detailed historical adventure. The novel immerses the reader in the final, desperate days of the Holy Land, exploring themes of faith, conflict, and the enduring quest for a common good. This is a must-read for fans of historical fiction who appreciate the religious and political, especially those surrounding the Crusades. The story centers on one of the most compelling odd couples in historical fiction: Jonathan St. Clair, a Knight Templar seeking esoteric wisdom, and Rabbi Samuel ben Daniel ha-Kohen, a master of Kabbalah. St. Clair pursues the Rabbi in Safed, believing the scholar holds the key to deciphering a crucial inscription. Their burgeoning partnership, however, is immediately threatened by treachery from all sides—the Mamluk emir’s guards and the internal religious dissent embodied by Rabbi Solomon Petit in Acre. The initial, violent flight from Safed, followed by the tragic burial of Samuel’s disciples, establishes a high-stakes pace that rarely lets up. The journey to Jerusalem is fraught with intrigue and spiritual exploration. While the Rabbi and St. Clair narrowly escape the emir's early betrayal, their companions, Isaac and Wallace, execute a crucial interception in Acre, reclaiming a scroll containing sensitive defense secrets. The novel shines as St. Clair and Rabbi Samuel, traveling in disguise, delve into the deeper meanings of the Torah and Kabbalah, illuminating the narrative's central message: the interconnectedness of all peoples and the divine order of the universe. The novel builds to a dramatic and heart-wrenching climax within the holy city. Working with al-Hasani, the group uses St. Clair’s scroll to identify the Tomb of Zechariah as a hidden portal into the Temple Mount. As the emir’s guards close in, the ailing Rabbi Samuel makes the ultimate sacrifice in the Garden of Gethsemane, to draw the enemy away. The conclusion is both tragic and unifying. St. Clair, now forever changed by Samuel’s teachings, returns to Acre to face the inevitable siege, standing with his companion Zahirah. Their final, united stand against the Mamluks provides a strong, if somber, testament to the enduring spiritual truths they uncovered, cementing the novel as more than just a war story—it’s a testament to shared humanity. Previous Next