Book review of Roglins by Anna Spencer . ISBN: 978-1787882799 < Back Take me back to https://www.childrensbookwormaward.com/ Roglins Anna Spencer Picture Books-Ages 4-8 Pegasus Nightingale Books Share this review: Copy link Facebook LinkedIn X (Twitter) WhatsApp Pinterest The writing is rhythmic and whimsical, engaging young readers with light-hearted language. The use of rhyme adds to the playful tone. Each poem maintains a lively pace suitable for children, ensuring the narrative doesn't drag. Anna Spencer's debut children's book, "Roglins," introduces readers to a whimsical world of tiny creatures hidden in the grass. These unique and charming beings are brought to life through Spencer's rhyming text and captivating illustrations. The book delves into the Roglins' daily lives, showcasing their playful antics and simple joys. With its rhythmic text and imaginative artwork, "Roglins" offers a delightful reading experience for young children, sparking their curiosity and imagination. The Roglins themselves are inventive and imaginative characters. Each one has distinctive features and personalities, making them endearing and memorable. The book's imaginative world and quirky characters create a truly captivating reading experience. Spencer's writing is rhythmic and whimsical, engaging young readers with light-hearted language and rhyme. Each poem maintains a lively pace, ensuring the narrative flows smoothly. While Spencer has a history of selling her artwork internationally, she found her true passion in creating children's books. "Roglins" marks the culmination of her artistic journey, showcasing her talent for storytelling and world-building. The vast variety of characters in your story mean readers will fall in love with at least one of your Roglins. Do you find yourself connecting with one in particular? I think each one has a part of me. And in my rhymes, it is all about happy endings. In Hidden Treasure, for example the story is all about exploration. There are times in life when we need to leave everything behind to start a new chapter. If we don’t take that step, we risk staying stuck in the same place. So, don’t be afraid to step out of your comfort zone —sometimes, taking a different path can lead to incredible opportunities. In Longing, the story focuses on helping others and making a meaningful change in someone's life. In this example, the narrator builds a glider to help a little Roglin soar and experience flight. Once again, the theme centers on a heartwarming, happy ending. Some of the poems are all about fun, like Wasp Whisperer, Creepy Crawlies, and Roglin the Knight. These poems are filled with amusing characters, offering a delightful escape into a world of imagination and joy. To read the full interview with Pegasus Publishers, please see the link: https://pegasuspublishers.com/blog/post/a-world-of-imagination-and-joy-an-interview-with-anna-spencer/?fbclid=IwY2xjawHQ6cZleHRuA2FlbQIxMQABHd9WTU2Xm63rRoqIJ6_vrN3XsgL17arkUb6BAftkpBczWuwR18BVEO4x3A_aem_s22aCMSOFDU9apywchYIGw Previous Next

Book review of Super Science Vol. 2 by Nicholas Kalikow . ISBN: 9781964226248 < Back Super Science Vol. 2 Nicholas Kalikow The Lab Press Share this review: Copy link Facebook LinkedIn X (Twitter) WhatsApp Pinterest Super Science, Vol. 2 is a fast-paced sci-fi comedy following two LAPD officers navigating corporate conspiracies, absurd villains, and high-stakes battles. (Pub Date: March 3, 2027) Picking up seamlessly from its high-octane debut, Super Science, Vol. 2 expands the chaos engulfing Los Angeles. Created by N. Alessandro K. (Kalikow) alongside illustrator M.K. Perker (The Ugliest Kid on Earth, The Unwritten, Insomnia Cafe), with cover art by Bill Sienkiewicz (Elektra: Assassin, Stray Toasters, Where in the World Is Carmen Sandiego?) and Tula Lotay (Lisa Wood, of Somna, Scarlet Witch, Groupies), this sophomore installment blurs the boundaries separating traditional superheroes from supervillains, and superhumans from everyday people. Its satire plays beyond familiar comic book archetypes to scrutinize the figures who shape public influence—politicians, corporate executives, and social media celebrities alike. Kalikow recasts influence as a “super power,” arguing that its unchecked pursuit breeds corruption and forces his characters to confront competing ideas centering identity, justice, and moral responsibility. The story unfolds after the sky mysteriously turns lavender, sparking a wave of self-made superheroes across Los Angeles. Every origin story reflects personal ambition over altruism: Ladycat, once a biology teacher, injects herself with feline DNA; meanwhile, the Gas Giant acquires toxic abilities by consuming irradiated food during a paid research study. Industrialist Burt Montague perfects a machine capable of shrinking people with absolute precision, yet fails to consider how to reverse its effects. These bizarre transformations double as satirical critiques, exposing how ego and opportunism shape nearly every pursuit of power. This emphasis on human conceit gives unexpected prominence to Lieutenant Dante Richey’s police task force, particularly Sergeant Esmeralda Villanueva (“EV”) and Officer Jack Mantle. Their greatest strengths lie in a collective commitment to public service, fueled by persistence and sound judgment with every crime scene they encounter. Where Los Angeles’ manmade superhumans pursue notoriety and gain spectacle, beat cops like EV and Mantle quietly shoulder the difficult work of protecting their city, portraying a stark contrast that reframes heroism as a matter of raw character. The volume reaches its greatest depth through its moral ambiguity. Supervillains such as Nike and Ringmaster present obvious threats, though the most compelling conflicts arise from compromised institutions and divided loyalties. Brad Mantle, the FBI liaison assigned to Montague Industries and Jack Mantle’s brother, abandons protocol during a rescue mission before gradually embracing increasingly questionable methods. Gabe Villanueva, EV’s gifted young son, secretly develops software for supervillains because he views them as people worthy of support, not condemnation. His concealed double life carries added emotional weight because his mother’s squad is actively hunting the very individuals he assists. With each betrayal comes the complication of the novel’s understanding of justice and yet another revelation as to how impassioned conviction from anywhere along the morality spectrum can easily give way to compromise. Throughout Super Science, Vol. 2, Los Angeles emerges as a city where performance extends far beyond Hollywood. Masks take many forms, from colorful costumes to polished political messaging, corporate branding, and carefully guarded family secrets. Perker’s expressive artwork grounds the escalating absurdity with cinematic clarity, allowing visual comedy to coexist with moments of genuine emotional tension. Together, Kalikow and Perker use the language of superhero fiction to examine the responsibilities that accompany power alongside the ambition and loyalty that uphold it. Energetic and incisive, Super Science, Vol. 2 broadens the satirical scope of the series, revealing that the greatest divide lies not between heroes and villains, but between the identities people perform and the choices that ultimately define them. Previous Next

Book review of The Non-Obvious Guide to Drawing Your Future: Solve Problems, Explain Ideas, Sell Anything by Patti Dobrowolski . ISBN: < Back The Non-Obvious Guide to Drawing Your Future: Solve Problems, Explain Ideas, Sell Anything Patti Dobrowolski Self-Help / Wellness, Business Ideapress Publishing Share this review: Copy link Facebook LinkedIn X (Twitter) WhatsApp Pinterest Drawing Your Future: A Visual Path to Achieving Your Dreams Patti Dobrowolski's "Drawing Your Future" isn't just another self-help book; it's a vibrant, practical guide that harnesses the transformative power of visual thinking to help you achieve your personal and professional goals. Dobrowolski, a former Broadway actor turned change agent and visual facilitator, shares her own journey, demonstrating how drawing has been instrumental in her diverse career. This personal narrative immediately resonates, setting the stage for understanding the profound impact of visual thinking on personal and professional development. The book delves into the science behind drawing, explaining its impact on the brain's visual processing capabilities. Dobrowolski emphasizes the importance of visualizing your future self, arguing that it directly influences current actions and behaviors. She explores the cognitive benefits of visual thinking, explaining how visualizing goals enhances motivation and performance, and how the act of drawing clarifies and solidifies aspirations. It's not just about doodling; it's about harnessing a powerful cognitive tool. "Drawing Your Future" goes beyond theory, offering a wealth of practical tools and techniques. Dobrowolski provides tips for creating engaging brainstorming environments, outlines techniques for using visual metaphors to solve problems, and offers methods for facilitating group discussions and idea generation through drawing. Previous Next

Learn more about Christy Cashman < Back Christy Cashman Christy Cashman: From Loss to Light: The Resilient Journey of “The Truth About Horses” "An irresistible readable novel…A triumphant portrait of tumultuous adolescence." — Joyce Carol Oates In the competitive world of contemporary literature, few debut novels manage to capture both the grit of rural life and the ethereal nature of healing quite like Christy Cashman’s The Truth About Horses. Since its release, the novel has galloped through the 2024 awards circuit, most notably securing a top spot at the NYC Big Book Awards. At the 2024 NYC Big Book Awards, Cashman’s debut was crowned the Winner in the Death and Dying category and named a Distinguished Favorite in General Fiction. While the “Death and Dying” category might seem heavy for a story about a fourteen-year-old girl, it perfectly encapsulates the book's heart. It isn’t just a “horse story”; it is an exploration of what remains when everything you love is stripped away: a prize stallion, a family legacy, and a mother. The award recognizes Cashman’s ability to handle the “post-traumatic truth” with a lens that is both unflinching and deeply empathetic. The novel introduces us to Reese Tucker, a young girl living in the shadow of a shattered dream in Birdwood, South Dakota. After a devastating racing accident involving her family’s horse, Trusted Treasure, Reese’s life enters a downward spiral marked by financial ruin and the sudden death of her mother. What sets this book apart from standard Young Adult or General Fiction is its unique blend of Equestrian Realism and Magical Realism. Cashman, a lifelong equestrian herself, eschews the “glossy” version of horse riding. She writes about the dirt, the debt, and the physical toll of the life. The writing takes on the magical when Reese begins to see a mystical herd of wild horses and a legendary black stallion. These visions serve as a psychological bridge, helping her navigate her grief and reconnect with her father and a mysterious trainer named Wes. The NYC Big Book Award is just one trophy on a very crowded mantle. In 2024 alone, "The Truth About Horses" took home the Gold for General Fiction in the IBPA Benjamin Franklin Awards; 2025 Independent Press Award Winner for General Fiction; and the Writer’s Digest award for the Young Adult category. Christy Cashman’s background as an actress ( American Hustle , The Descendants ) and producer brings a cinematic quality to her prose. However, her most impactful work may be her philanthropic arm, YouthINK. Inspired by the themes of her book, this initiative encourages young people to use creative storytelling to process their own life challenges. *** OVER 30,000 copies sold *** See https://christycashman.com/ for more information. Share this article Facebook X (Twitter) WhatsApp LinkedIn Pinterest Copy link

Book review of Hidden - Triquetra Prophecy Book One by Melody Grace Hicks . ISBN: < Back Hidden - Triquetra Prophecy Book One Melody Grace Hicks Fantasy, Paranormal Romance Self Published Share this review: Copy link Facebook LinkedIn X (Twitter) WhatsApp Pinterest A Goddess in the Making: Love, Mythology, and Modern Life Collide "Hidden: Triquetra Prophecy" by Melody Grace Hicks is a fantasy romance that weaves together the allure of mythology with the complexities of modern life. For adults who enjoy romance with a strong fantasy thread, this tale is a character-driven story that explores the intense emotional and physical connections between its protagonists against a backdrop of ancient gods and modern settings. The story unfolds across a diverse range of locations, from a seemingly ordinary flight to London, to the familiar landscape of modern-day Earth, and finally, the breathtaking, otherworldly realms of Asgard and Egypt. This blend of the mundane and the magical, spanning both contemporary and ancient times, creates a dynamic backdrop for the unfolding drama. At the heart of the story are two characters: Shannon Murphy, a scientist whose life takes a dramatic turn when she discovers her divine heritage, and Tod Corvus, a charismatic singer-songwriter and actor who reveals himself to be Loki, the Asgardian God of Chaos, Story, and Song. Their initial meeting sparks an undeniable attraction, quickly igniting a passionate connection that throws Shannon's world into disarray. Shannon's life is irrevocably changed by Loki's revelation. The discovery that gods are real, and that she herself is one of them, sends her reeling. As she grapples with her newfound identity and the immense power it entails, she faces a multitude of challenges. The persistent harassment from her ex-fiancé, Trent, adds to her turmoil, while she simultaneously struggles to understand and control her emerging abilities. Loki, burdened by his own tragic past, becomes Shannon's protector and guide. Their bond deepens as they navigate the treacherous landscape of mythological threats. As their relationship evolves, they encounter obstacles that test the strength of their connection. Loki's resurfacing memories add layers of complexity to their romance, while the dangers posed by their enemies constantly threaten to tear them apart. Shannon's journey is one of self-discovery and empowerment. She struggles to harness her divine powers and fully embrace her identity as a goddess. The narrative has references to various mythologies, seamlessly blending elements from Norse, Greek, Roman, and other ancient cultures with the modern world. This fusion of myth and reality creates an immersive reading experience. The story reaches its climax as Shannon and Loki face their greatest challenge. With their enemies closing in and the stakes higher than ever, they must rely on their love and their newfound abilities to survive. The resolution provides a satisfying conclusion while also leaving the door open for future adventures. Shannon emerges as a powerful and confident goddess, ready to face whatever lies ahead, while Loki finds a sense of peace and purpose in their relationship. "Hidden: Triquetra Prophecy" concludes with a sense of hope and anticipation. Shannon and Loki look forward to the adventures that await them in the mythological worlds beyond Earth. This contemporary fantasy romance offers a compelling blend of mythology, modern settings, and passionate romance, making it a reader's pick for fans of the genre. It's a story about love, self-discovery, and the enduring power of myth in a modern world. Previous Next

Book review of OBX Men, et al by John Carroll Koutze . ISBN: 9781312326620 < Back OBX Men, et al John Carroll Koutze family reconciliation, vacation, humor, grief Lulu Share this review: Copy link Facebook LinkedIn X (Twitter) WhatsApp Pinterest A contemporary drama about two middle-aged cousins whose beach trip turns into a crowded family gathering that forces a long-buried estrangement into the open. John Carroll Koutze’s “OBX Men, et al” pivots from the author’s sci-fi roots into contemporary domestic fiction, offering a character-driven narrative about long-buried extended family trauma. Set against the wind-swept, off-season backdrop of North Carolina’s Outer Banks, the novel balances domestic chaos with heavy emotional reckonings. The novel begins with middle-aged cousins Jack Driscoll, a recently laid-off architect struggling with lost identity, and Luke Reed, a Philadelphia structural engineer, seeking a quiet week of fishing and bachelorhood. What starts as a quiet getaway quickly expands into a chaotic ensemble piece when Jack’s wife, Laurie, unilaterally invites the broader family to the rental house, including Jack’s Aunt Brigid. The invitation immediately ignites the novel's central tension: Luke and Brigid have been estranged for six years following her unexplained absence from his father George’s funeral. The book’s framework is an escalating series of setbacks (a glass-attacking seagull, a deck fire, an overflowing bathtub, storm blackouts, and Halloween trick-or-treating) and cast of characters against the slow-burn psychological weight of Luke’s unresolved resentment and Brigid’s secret guilt. The novel’s absolute high point comes when the core mystery is finally exposed. Brigid’s revelation to Luke about his father’s death, gives real weight to her six years of painful silence. It transforms her from a seemingly cold relative into a tragic, guilt-ridden figure, reframing Luke’s childhood memories through a darker, mature lens. The coastal setting is used to strong thematic and symbolic effect. Jack’s early near-drowning in a rip current mirrors the family’s emotional state, nearly dragged under by hidden undercurrents. Similarly, Luke's disposal of his handgun onto the sand serves as a satisfying symbolic turning point where he discards his posture of defensive hostility before confronting Brigid. The introduction of Private First Class Ben Fisher, a traumatized veteran roaming the beaches, adds a poignant layer to the narrative. Rather than acting as a simple plot device, Ben’s presence introduces themes of post-traumatic stress and hidden suffering that mirror the internal battles being fought inside the rental house. Koutze packs the rental home, taking away from the novel’s core emotional arc. Beyond Jack, Luke, Brigid, and Laurie, the narrative includes more children, a new girlfriend (Adrienne), a visiting German student (Bernhardt), family friends Gustav and Yvette and their children, and Gustav’s cousin Maximus. Many of these secondary characters serve as background noise or sources of contrived conflict (such as Luke’s sudden jealousy over Bernhardt), which adds to the mayhem surrounding the core dynamic between Luke, Jack, and Brigid. “OBX Men, et al” is an empathetic look at the silent grief that can fracture families and the courage required to break decades of miscommunication. Readers who enjoy ensemble domestic dramas, such as the works of Anne Tyler or Richard Russo, will appreciate Koutze’s realistic portrayal of middle-aged anxieties and extended family dynamics. With the distractions, its core message rings clear and true: unspoken secrets carry a far heavier toll than uncomfortable truths. Previous Next

Book review of A PANGOLIN SLEPT ON BUDDHA'S LAP: A Novel about the Wonders of Wildlife and the Trials of Conservation by Madeleine Dale . ISBN: 979-8889105695 < Back A PANGOLIN SLEPT ON BUDDHA'S LAP: A Novel about the Wonders of Wildlife and the Trials of Conservation Madeleine Dale New Fiction Austin Maccauley - US Share this review: Copy link Facebook LinkedIn X (Twitter) WhatsApp Pinterest The meticulously worded title - A Pangolin Slept on Buddha’s Lap: A Novel about the Wonders of Wildlife and the Trials of Conversation - contains everything the reader needs to know about this book. Its beautiful cover filled with oranges and greens invoke the naturalism on display throughout the story. In short, it prepares the reader for a timely discussion of our relationship with nature and the perils that await us. A Pangolin Slept on Buddha’s Lap: A Novel about the Wonders of Wildlife and the Trials of Conversation by Madeleine Dale juxtaposes the importance of wildlife conservation with the ambitious drive so often associated with human nature. The protagonist, Wolf Vandengetz, is good at his job as a research scientist. Unfortunately, he’s too good and his talent for blending into the landscape - both literally and figuratively - earns him a promotion, taking him away from the pride of lions that he has built his life around. In his place is Moira, a postdoc, who makes a bad impression immediately upon her arrival to replace him as she shares a few changes she wants to make after Wolf leaves. This opening dovetails nicely with Wolf’s new obsession as the book opens: a new male lion is trying to take down the old sire and become a new leader of the pride. Moira’s arrival gives Wolf a similar taste of this as she tries to usurp not only his research but his place studying the Serengeti. Shortly after, Wolf leaves his beloved lions behind and heads to Nepal to head a program that works to save endangered pangolins. Wolf’s new environment may be different physically, but the same problems abound - reminding the reader of the complexity that comes with raising awareness for threatened species using capitalist methods. Establishing these opposing dichotomies early on in the novel works beautifully throughout the rest of the narrative, as it invites the reader to consider the answer isn’t as easy as we believe, which is a lesson Wolf learns as well. EcoWild, the organization Wolf works for that claims to center its resources toward environmental activism, is constantly in the background as the reason for Wolf’s globe-hopping adventure and the lurking presence of gala benefits, donors, board members, and pseudo-celebrity researchers. Wildlife conservation costs money, yet Wolf struggles with the performative aspects needed to keep the research alive. The novel carries a hint of intrigue worthy of a good thriller as Wolf begins to unravel the politics and players that threaten the pangolin and its future: corruption, greed, and poachers. Wolf is a worthwhile protagonist for the novel’s complex narrative. He represents the traditional, natural way to approach conservation - as a collaborative effort for the greater good. Wolf makes numerous attempts to decolonize conservation efforts - the reader is introduced to his value system at the beginning as he tries to maintain natural methods of tracking the lion pride while working with the Maasai - but is constantly at odds with those trying to advance their own ambition. We see Wolf at odds with Armand Barda, director of EcoWild, when he remarks to himself that Armand is motivated by the prestige of the organization rather than the wildlife. Later on, when Wolf is called to help defeat the poachers, he struggles with the idea of using force when his true motivation lies in putting the pangolins first before the needs of people, including those wanting to help. Visceral language and powerful imagery are the highlights of this novel. Madeleine Dale’s talent for descriptive narration and strong character development are the perfect match for a story that emphasizes the delicate balance between humans and nature. This book is a fascinating exploration into the fragile ecosystems that bind us together as the reader and Wolf serve as both participants and observers throughout the book. The idea that fortune changes quickly, for both human and animal, is not lost on the reader as uncomfortable conversations surrounding conversation efforts disguised as personal pride take center stage. A Pangolin Slept on Buddha’s Lap: A Novel about the Wonders of Wildlife and the Trials of Conversation by Madeleine Dale is a passionate call to action to be proactive in a world that emphasizes survival and reactive behavior. Previous Next

The Printed Word Reviews FALCON Review is an affordable, roughly 400 word professional book review service designed to help independent authors gain visibility. Associated with prepublication to award-winning books, it aims to boost marketing efforts by getting books noticed by agents, publishers, and industry influencers to support authors' careers. Reviews can create a significant amount of attention to an author's book. WHEN WORDS REALLY MATTER Reviews call a significant amount of attention to your book. By purchasing a FALCON Review by Printed Word Reviews, you will have the opportunity to get noticed by agents, book buyers, publishers and other industry influencers. Receive an affordable book review that can boost your writing career. 1) Pay online ; and 2) submit your book! For digital format (PDF or EPUB): email at Ted@PrintedWordReviews.com . NO KINDLE GIFTS. Physical copy mail to: PRINTED WORD REVIEWS Attn: Falcon Book Reviewers 63 Clinton Road Glen Ridge, NJ 07028 1+ (973) 969-1899 FOR A LIMITED TIME ONLY, get a FALCON Review, approximately 250 - 500 words, $299. FALCON Review EXPEDITED (10 days or less), approximately 250 - 500 words, $399. FALCON Review and ONE Preview ad in Printed Word Reviews magazine https://www.paypal.com/ncp/payment/255F7SMS2GBAL What are people saying about a FALCON Review by Printed Word Reviews " Thanks, Ted, ...and getting this well written review to me...Nice work, Ted. I had not looked at the magazine before. Very professional and laid out." — James Bultema, author of Red Lines "Nice write up with lots of energy. We approve" — Breakfield & Burkey, Enigma Series "Excellent job in identifying the essence of this book. Thank you so much." — Simon T. Bailey, author of Resilience@Work - How to Coach Yourself Into a Thriving Future "Thank you for the well-written review and summary of the book... I think this is a great review." — J.L. Hancock Author, The Spear and the Sentinel "This is great! Thanks again." — Mark Erik Hecht, author of Rescuing Ethan and Gabe The Power of One Stable Committed Relationship "Approve!!! Awesome!!! Ted! Thank you from the bottom of my heart." — Sieglinde Othmer, author of Joyous Longevity: The A-Z Field Guide NOW introducing the FALCON Review SHORT: a bite-sized, high-impact review designed to hook readers in seconds. Approximately a 75 to 125-word review doesn’t replace our full critical and summary reviews; rather, it’s an agile marketing tool crafted to help authors instantly grab the attention of booksellers, librarians, and readers. Click on this link today to order: https://www.paypal.com/ncp/payment/XHKZFQVQPZP5U Liked what we've done, you can upgrade to a full FALCON review (with or without an ad): https://www.paypal.com/ncp/payment/UZCCN2J92EQGL FALCON Reviews by Printed Word Reviews is our answer to the dearth of good quality independent book reviews. Sorely needed by the industry and consumer base at large, it's part of Printed Word Reviews dedication to the independent author and publisher struggling for book discovery. You can hear more in this interview with Ted Olczak, president and publisher of Printed Word Reviews, who offers invaluable insights into the competitive world of independent publishing. https://writersofthefuture.com/podcast/episode-392/ Dedicated Review Page on PrintedWordReviews.com Listed with ALL reviews Now in our eNewsletters

Book review of A Sometimes Paradise: Reflections on Life in a Wyoming Ranch Family by Mark E. Miller . ISBN: 978-1954861169 < Back A Sometimes Paradise: Reflections on Life in a Wyoming Ranch Family Mark E. Miller Western Nonfiction Sandra Jonas Publishing Share this review: Copy link Facebook LinkedIn X (Twitter) WhatsApp Pinterest A Sometimes Paradise is a poignant memoir that chronicles Mark E. Miller's life growing up on the I Lazy D Ranch in Wyoming, exploring the deep connections between family, nature, and the enduring spirit of ranching amidst the challenges of modernization and loss. "A Sometimes Paradise" is a memoir by Mark E. Miller that reflects on his life growing up on the I Lazy D Ranch in Carbon County, Wyoming. A poignant and closely observed narrative captures the essence of ranch life and the deep connection to nature, animals, and family. The memoir is structured around various aspects of ranching, livestock, people, culture, and family archaeology, providing a comprehensive look at the author's experiences and the history of his family. Previous Next

Book review of Leadership in Verse: Poems & Stories by John Baldoni . ISBN: 978-1969508226 < Back Leadership in Verse: Poems & Stories John Baldoni Business, leadership, poetry, burnout, grace, service Maison Vero Share this review: Copy link Facebook LinkedIn X (Twitter) WhatsApp Pinterest A leadership thinker uses poetry, reflection, and inspiring real-life stories to explore the heart, courage, humility, and grace needed to lead well in difficult times. In a leadership market saturated with data-driven frameworks and “hustle” culture, John Baldoni’s “Leadership in Verse: Poems & Stories” arrives as a necessary, soulful intervention. Baldoni, a veteran coach and author, pivots away from the cold mechanics of management to explore leadership as a fundamentally moral and relational practice. This is not a manual for performance; it is a meditation on the human spirit under the weight of responsibility. The book’s distinctive strength lies in its tripartite structure, which guides the reader through a process of diagnosis, discipline, and demonstration. In the first part, Baldoni strips away the corporate euphemisms that mask workplace rot. He addresses the “unspoken” realities of burnout; the corrosive nature of ego; and the hollowed-out isolation of virtual disconnection. By naming these shadows, Baldoni forces a confrontation with the truth: institutions fail when their leaders trade responsibility for moral evasion. The second part offers the remedy. However, Baldoni’s “tools” are not KPIs or spreadsheets; they are virtues like grace, humility, and solitude. He argues that the integration of character and conduct is the only way to remain grounded under pressure. Through poetic compression, he makes abstract concepts like “blessing” and “resilience” feel like practical, daily disciplines. The use of verse here is a brilliant tactical choice; it slows the reader down, demanding the very reflection that modern corporate life often stifles. The final part cements these ideals in personal and historical stories. Baldoni recounts lives of figures ranging from Robert Redford and James Lovell to Jimmy Carter and Abraham Lincoln. These are not idealized case studies but portraits of “character formed through suffering.” They illustrate that leadership is a habit of service, not a status of authority. Baldoni’s central thesis is clear: effective leadership begins with self-leadership. One cannot enlarge others without first mastering the ego and confronting one’s own cowardice or pride. “Leadership in Verse” is an essential read for executives, managers, and coaches who find themselves weary of abstract advice that ignores the emotional toll of the modern workplace. It is a rare book that offers both a “searching diagnosis” and a “humane perspective.” For those navigating the fog of organizational change or the exhaustion of burnout, Baldoni provides a mirror and a compass, urging us to lead with a depth that is as moral as it is imaginative. Previous Next

Book review of Slaying Paradise: Legend of The Iron Warrior, Vol. 1 by T.V. Holiday . ISBN: 979-8324850081 < Back Slaying Paradise: Legend of The Iron Warrior, Vol. 1 T.V. Holiday Fantasy Amazon Kindle Direct Share this review: Copy link Facebook LinkedIn X (Twitter) WhatsApp Pinterest After a tragic car accident, a police officer is chosen by God to become The Iron Warrior, a champion destined to battle the forces of evil in a corrupt city, while navigating his own struggles with love and faith. The book is a supernatural novel that explores themes of faith, love, and the eternal battle between good and evil, written in a gritty, action-packed style. It is ideal for readers who enjoy intense, character-driven narratives with strong moral and spiritual undertones. The story unfolds in the fictional city of Carnage Coast, a place characterized by its corruption and darkness, set in a contemporary time frame. The main characters are Travis Holiday and Lynda Lynch. Travis is a police officer chosen by God to become The Iron Warrior after a near-fatal car crash. He is tasked with combating the forces of Lucifer in Carnage Coast. Lynda is a prostitute who makes a desperate pact with Lucifer, gaining supernatural powers and becoming Sensation, a powerful figure in the city's underworld. Travis Holiday, a dedicated police officer, finds himself at a crossroads after a near-fatal car crash. Chosen by God, he becomes The Iron Warrior, a divine champion tasked with fighting the forces of Lucifer in the morally decayed city of Carnage Coast. Concurrently, Lynda Lynch, a woman driven by desperation, makes a pact with Lucifer. This pact grants her supernatural abilities, transforming her into Sensation, a formidable presence in the city's criminal underworld. As Travis grapples with his new role and responsibilities, he must rely on his faith to guide him. Lynda, now Sensation, embraces her newfound strength to exact revenge on those who wronged her. The narrative intensifies as Travis, in his role as The Iron Warrior, begins to confront the evil forces in Carnage Coast, including Sensation and her followers, the Diabolical Donnas. Travis's faith and determination are tested through numerous battles and moral dilemmas. Sensation, under Lucifer's influence, attempts to seduce and corrupt Travis, aiming to make him lose his faith. Despite the growing attraction between them, Travis remains committed to his mission. Major turning points include Travis's realization of the true nature of his Divine Eyes as well as his increasing influence in the city through his role in the Carnage Coast Wrestling Association. The story’s climax sees Travis and Sensation confronting their destinies. Sensation, torn between her love for Travis and her pact with Lucifer, ultimately chooses to join Travis in his fight against evil. They face off against Abaddon, a powerful demon released by Lucifer's followers, in a battle that devastates the city. Despite their victory, the cost is high, and Sensation is mortally wounded. In the aftermath, Travis's faith and love for Sensation allow him to absorb the darkness within her, transforming parts of his armor black. The book ends on a bittersweet note as Travis, now fully embracing his role as The Iron Warrior, vows to continue protecting the world from darkness, even as he mourns the loss of Sensation. The book is written in a gritty, action-packed style that keeps readers engaged. The intense, character-driven narrative is enriched with strong moral and spiritual undertones, making it a compelling read for those who appreciate that kind of depth in their story. Previous Next

Book review of KRISPR by Jennifer Handler . ISBN: 9798350935929 < Back KRISPR Jennifer Handler Sci-Fi, Thriller, genome editing, ethics, neuroscience, Alzheimer’s disease Independently Published Share this review: Copy link Facebook LinkedIn X (Twitter) WhatsApp Pinterest To save her father from Alzheimer’s, a brilliant young scientist who discovers a groundbreaking gene-editing system must outwit a ruthless collaborator and decide just how far she'll go to protect her family. Jennifer Handler’s KRISPR reads like a classic page-turner torn straight from today's scientific headlines, combining the intrigue of a Michael Crichton thriller with the emotional weight of a family drama. Using genetic engineering in a daughter’s desperate bid to save her father from early-onset Alzheimer’s, Handler gives her protagonist, Aliya McKenna, a deeply human core that elevates the novel above simple techno-thriller tropes. The narrative engine runs on classic thriller suspense, building from routine laboratory discovery to cartels, stolen human embryos, and international evasion. Handler does a nice transition from academic ambition to survival thriller and is well-paced. As Aliya partners with the predatory geneticist Andrew Lux, the tension shifts smoothly from intellectual rivalry to physical danger. Later, the explosive sequence at ARC Labs: sabotaged laboratories, a tank of stolen embryos, and a chaotic escape provides a satisfying, cinematic payoff before shifting to an unexpectedly intimate final act in Jamaica. Rather than stopping at the thriller beats, the novel extends into the moral aftermath. The offshore brain-transplant procedure avoids feeling like a simple "deus ex machina" fix by introducing realistic, complex side effects, specifically the resurfacing of traumatic Gulf War memories via the edited stem cells. Aliya McKenna works well as a protagonist because her driving force isn't hubris, it's grief. Villain Andrew Lux functionally effective as a ruthless, corporate-backed antagonist, representing the dark side of commercial science. At the core, is McKenna’s father who serves as both the emotional heart of the story and the primary vehicle for the novel's core moral dilemma. The novel's strongest asset is its thematic exploration of bioethics versus desperation. Handler continually tests the boundary between what science can do and what it should do. Aliya’s decision to illegally edit stem cells derived from stolen embryos bridges the gap between hero and morally gray agent, proving her willingness to cross legal and ethical lines for love. At times, the narrative piles on personal tragedy: a mysterious death, a ransacked home, a poisoned pet, and a suspicious mother’s death all in rapid succession. Trimming a few of these elements would keep the focus sharper on the primary conflict with Lux. While the introduction of concepts like the PAM sequence and CRISPR-Cas9 is accessible for general readers, hard-sci-fi purists may find the speed and success of the experimental Alzheimer's stem-cell procedure slightly hand-waved for plot expediency. KRISPR succeeds as an engaging, character-driven scientific thriller. It effectively balances accessible genetics with genuine suspense, delivering a thought-provoking look at the unintended consequences of human innovation. Recommended for fans of plot-driven fiction, medical thrillers, and stories centered on family loyalty under extraordinary circumstances. Previous Next