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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 Laura Muirhead < Back Laura Muirhead From Plot Twists to Queen Code: Laura Muirhead's Journey of Sovereign Leadership In the bustling literary world, few authors can claim the unique blend of entrepreneurial prowess, intuitive wisdom, and raw storytelling that defines Laura Muirhead. A seasoned CFO, a certified pilot, and a profound intuitive coach, Muirhead has translated her extraordinary life experiences into a compelling body of work that empowers women to embrace their inner Queen Code: The Book. Her recent accolades, including multiple honors from the Independent Press Award (IPA) and the NYC Big Book Award , underscore her growing influence in the self-help and personal growth spheres. Muirhead's journey truly began with her memoir, A Funny Thing Happened on the Way to My Life . (Review: https://www.printedwordreviews.com/bookreviews/9781763852648 ) This isn't just a book of anecdotes; it's a testament to radical resilience and the power of embracing life’s unexpected detours. The memoir chronicles a series of life-altering events that would test anyone's fortitude. Surviving a devastating house fire that stripped away possessions but refined her spirit; the revelation at age 40 that her biological father was not the man who raised her; and the exhilarating, yet grounding, experience of winning the lottery, all profound life reevaluation events. This unflinching honesty resonated deeply with readers and critics alike, earning it a prestigious 2026 Independent Press Award (IPA) Winner in the Personal Growth category. It was also recognized as a NYC Big Book Award Distinguished Favorite , proving its universal appeal across both independent and mainstream publishing platforms. The book and its accompanying podcast serve as a powerful narrative of how "plot twists" can lead to profound self-discovery and gratitude. Building on the raw vulnerability of her memoir, Muirhead delivers the practical blueprint for transformation in Queen Code: The Book . (Review: https://www.printedwordreviews.com/bookreviews/queen-code ) This isn't just self-help; it's a call to sovereign leadership, encouraging women to “rule their own Queendom.” The book was honored as a 2026 Independent Press Award Distinguished Favorite , highlighting its innovative approach to empowerment. Central to Queen Code is the concept of “Personal Policies,” a methodology for creating clear, intentional boundaries and standard operating procedures for one's life. This framework helps readers: redefine identity, embrace archetypes; and healing: First moving from victimhood to empowered self-governance, Muirhead guides readers through powerful archetypes like The Sovereign, The Warrior Queen, The Oracle, and The Weaver, each representing different facets of feminine strength and leadership. This allows one to heal and grow by utilizing a “Question, Investigate, Heal, and Grow” (QIHG) methodology to dismantle inherited beliefs and cultivate unshakeable self-worth. The book’s blend of Muirhead's personal insights as a CFO and her intuitive coaching expertise provides a unique, actionable guide for women seeking to craft lives of purpose, power, and prosperity. Laura Muirhead's success with both the Independent Press Award and the NYC Big Book Award solidifies her standing in the literary world. While the IPA champions the innovative spirit of independent authors, the NYC Big Book Award places her work in direct competition with the biggest names in publishing, celebrating its universal quality and market appeal. Such dual recognition is a rare feat, signaling that Muirhead’s message transcends traditional genre boundaries and resonates with a broad audience. Laura Muirhead is a guide for those ready to embrace life's challenges, rewrite their narratives, and step into their power. Whether through the captivating journey of her memoir or the strategic framework of Queen Code: The Book , she illuminates a path to personal sovereignty, proving that every plot twist is an opportunity to rule your own magnificent life. Share this article Facebook X (Twitter) WhatsApp LinkedIn Pinterest Copy link

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Learn more about Loretta Goldberg < Back Loretta Goldberg Loretta Goldberg author signing at ALA Award-winning author Loretta Goldberg writes historical literary fiction with battle scenes. She loves this genre because she finds in history’s frames, where events have beginnings and endings, a magical mirror in which we can see ourselves more fully. She earned a BA (Hons.) in English, Music and History at the University of Melbourne, Australia. She came to the USA on a Fulbright scholarship for piano. Her CDs are in 700 libraries. After a financial planning career she returned to her first love, writing. Her debut novel The Reversible Mask: An Elizabethan Spy Novel (MadeGlobal Publishing) has won several awards. Her non-fiction articles include Tudor history, financial planning, arts reviews and political satire. Chair of HNS-NY Chapter, she also belongs to the Authors Guild and NLAPW. A people and animal lover, she enjoys traveling, hiking, swimming and taking terrible photographs. Beyond the Bukubuk Tree: A World War II Novel of Love and Loss. New Guinea, 1941. Heroism, sacrifice and ultimately, hope, transcend the horror of war. Two men preparing for war, both with secrets they are determined to keep. Jake Friedman, an idealistic young Jewish doctor from Melbourne, is haunted by the death of a colleague he thinks he caused. Alex Whipple, a Catholic known as Wip, is a soul- scarred veteran of the First World War, an idealist who fights bullies on behalf of their victims yet has a chequered past in the wild side of post-war Paris that he is determined to forget. Both are posted to Lark Force, a lone and under-resourced battalion defending the port town of Rabaul. When the Japanese invade Rabaul, their battalion is abandoned by the Australian government. Improvising a jungle retreat, fighting rain, insects, disease, and vengeful Japanese pursuers, Jake will face the ultimate trials of his courage as Wip struggles to find the will to live. Many reviewers find the novel riveting, unforgettable and a war novel like no other, while The Midwest Book Review recommends it to libraries with World War II collections. Share this article Facebook X (Twitter) WhatsApp LinkedIn Pinterest Copy link

< Back Facebook X (Twitter) WhatsApp LinkedIn Pinterest Copy link Share this page: PWR eNewsletter Printed Word August 28, 2025 Printed Word Reviews Ted@PrintedWordReviews.com https://www.printedwordreviews.com/ August 2025 - library edition Share with a friend Connect at https://www.linkedin.com/in/ted-olczak-64a1386/ =========================== IN THIS ISSUE OverDrive's Digipalooza Recap New Reviews at Printed Word Reviews Interviews Coming Soon =========================== Digipalooza Delivers: A Premier Event for Librarians in the Digital Age Every two years, OverDrive hosts Digipalooza, see what we think: https://www.printedwordreviews.com/articles/digipalooza-delivers%3A-a-premier-event-for-librarians-in-the-digital-age ========================================== Hello readers, here are the latest reviews and interviews: 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 The Amazing World Beneath the Waves Dive into the depths of our planet's most enigmatic frontier with Gloria Barnett's "The Amazing World Beneath the Waves," a book that proves science can be both captivating and crystal clear. Read more at https://www.printedwordreviews.com/bookreviews/9781838064372 A. Nonny Mouse: Magical Moon Mouse Finds Merry Christmas When a whimsical moon mouse named A. Nonny embarks on a journey to Earth to find a MERRY CHRISTMAS in a box for his friend's birthday, he discovers that the true magic of Christmas lies in love and selflessness. Read more at https://www.printedwordreviews.com/bookreviews/9781885708113 ===================================== Featured Printed Word Review FALCON book review: Transitioning Your Federal Resume to Private Industry: Are You at the Fork of the Road? This book serves as an indispensable resource, expertly bridging the gap between the often-complex federal resume format and the concise, results-driven expectations of private industry hiring managers. Read more at https://www.printedwordreviews.com/bookreviews/9781733777933 ===================================== Gab Talks Interviews President of the Independent Press Award speaks with R.w. Meek, author of "The Dream Collector:", published by Historium Press https://www.independentpressaward.com/thegabtalks/the-dream-collector%3A-sabrine-%26-vincent-van-gogh-(book-two) See the publisher Historium Press' video trailer, https://youtu.be/17hGF3bc6rE ===================================== Printed Word Reviews Interviews Ted Olczak, Publisher of Printed Word Reviews, at ALA with Orca's publisher Andrew Wooldridge, https://youtu.be/vlAT1E3ALKM ======================================= 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 September 30th, https://www.independentpressaward.com/ , all books to be received by December 15, 2025. Winners announced every spring. Big Book Award includes the Big 5 Publishing Houses has now concluded, https://www.nycbigbookaward.com/ . Winners announced October 20, 2025. Be recognized and have your winning title published in Printed Word Reviews magazine. ======================================= COMING SOON REDESIGN of Printed Word Reviews logo, https://www.printedwordreviews.com/magazine See us this coming month at: September 6-7: Printers Row Lit Fest September 10: New England Independent Booksellers Association Conference (NEIBA) September 13-14: Baltimore Bookfest September 16: Book Manufacturing Mastered September 20: Arlington Town Day September 21: Brooklyn Book Festival ======================================= (c) 2025 Ted Olczak. Please forward and share this newsletter in its entirety. Previous Next

Book review of Welcome to the NIC Zoo by Paige Pedroli . ISBN: < Back Take me back to https://www.childrensbookwormaward.com/ Welcome to the NIC Zoo Paige Pedroli NICU, hope, healing, journey, uniqueness, inspiration Self-published Share this review: Copy link Facebook LinkedIn X (Twitter) WhatsApp Pinterest In a heartwarming journey through the NIC-Zoo, a collection of animal babies learns that every unique life is worth the wait as they grow stronger and prepare to soar into their new beginnings. "Welcome to the NICU-Zoo" is a tender and necessary children’s board book by Paige Pedroli, inspired by her own family’s experience as a two-time NICU mom. This heartwarming story re-imagines the often intimidating environment of the Neonatal Intensive Care Unit as a cozy, temporary haven for animal babies, the "NIC-Zoo," providing a message of hope and understanding for both children and their parents. The story centers on various baby animals who hatch or are born early and require specialized care. Instead of a sterile hospital, they are admitted to the brightly envisioned NIC-Zoo, colorfully illustrated by Elena Hernandez, a nurturing place where dedicated caring nurses help them grow strong. The rhyming narrative follows the gradual progression of time, patiently detailing how each unique baby receives individualized care. The book beautifully addresses the need for patience during recovery, a reality many NICU families face. The tone is consistently gentle and suitable for bedtime reading, making complex emotions accessible. The book is ideally suited for a child reader demographic of ages 4–8, though its primary audience extends beyond that to include NICU siblings and the parents reading to their babies. For an older sibling, the NIC-Zoo framework provides a concrete, non-scary metaphor for the hospital, helping them understand why their new brother or sister can't come home yet. The narrative progression is reassuring and cyclical. The climax arrives not in drama, but in joyful readiness: when the babies are finally healthy, they fly or hop off to their own home, carrying the NIC-Zoo as a cherished memory of the care they received. Key illustrated scenes, such as the initial early arrival and the final departure, will undoubtedly resonate deeply with families who have lived this journey. "Welcome to the NICU-Zoo" is more than just a sweet story; it is a therapeutic resource wrapped in a comforting tale. By transforming a challenging medical setting into an imaginative, safe space, Paige Pedroli validates the feelings of parents while providing a hopeful narrative for children. This book is a valuable addition to any family’s library, particularly those seeking comfort and understanding during or after a NICU stay. Previous Next

Learn more about Nancy L. Regas < Back Nancy L. Regas The Heart in the Hallways: Balancing Compassion and Reality in School Counseling In an insightful question and answer session, Printed Word Reviews (PWR) asks veteran school counselor and Marriage and Family Therapist (MFT) Nancy Regas to recount her experience and share her wisdom. Reflecting on her 22-year career and her book, Art of Being a School Counselor , Regas provides profound wisdom on balancing the clinical, emotional, and bureaucratic demands of the education system, offering a roadmap for educators, parents, and counselors alike. PWR: You structured the book as part memoir, part guide. Was there a specific moment or breakthrough with a student in your 22-year career that made you say, “I need to write this down and share it with the world?” Nancy Regas: The COVID shutdown occurred six months after I retired as a regional college representative. I found myself thinking about and missing my students. Faces came to mind, then their stories, e.g., a girl who never spoke and would only write short responses on a tablet. Yet, I got her to sing Taylor Swift’s song with me in my office. The twinkle in her eye warmed my heart. I awarded her the counselor scholarship that year. I knew I had to document the gift of being a school counselor. PWR: You explicitly mention that your book is also for teachers, administrators, and parents-not just counselors. What is the number one thing you wish parents and principals understood about the reality of a school counselor’s day-to-day life? Nancy Regas: Counselors are jugglers, bouncing between advocacy for their students, responsibilities to administrators, and support for teachers and parents. Each entity sometimes thinks it has exclusive rights to the counselor; an effective counselor’s attitude and actions ensure that all groups feel seen and heard. That was my goal every day. My open-door policy was for everyone. Ultimately, everyone wins when there is collaboration in working for and with every student. PWR: Public education can be notoriously bureaucratic. How did you protect your time and energy to ensure paperwork didn’t consume your face-to-face with students? Nancy Regas: I got to work an hour to an hour and a half before school started. I did email, checked voicemail, and reviewed the to-do list I made the day before when I wrapped up my day. Students came first. If I was absorbed in something and a student came, I would explain my deadline, why I couldn’t stop at this moment, and ask them to return at a specific time: I respected their time, and they respected mine. They KNEW they could count on me. PWR: If a rookie school counselor is listening to this/reading this right now and feeling completely overwhelmed by their caseload, what is the single most important piece of advice you want them to take away? Nancy Regas: A professor said this in a class, and it carried me: “A career is an expression of who you are.” Make sure you are living that daily and not just doing a job. Be your authentic self. Hold onto your passion; no one can take that from you. It will ignite even when the flame is flickering or circumstances are trying to snuff it out. Finally, always take it ONE STUDENT AT A TIME. Listen to Nancy speak about her experience and book at https://www.independentpressaward.com/theartofbeingaschoolcounselor Share this article Facebook X (Twitter) WhatsApp LinkedIn Pinterest Copy link

Book review of Grumpy The Iguana by Susan Marie Chapman . ISBN: 978-0578568607 < Back Take me back to https://www.childrensbookwormaward.com/ Grumpy The Iguana Susan Marie Chapman Routine, home, friendship, compassion, new beginnings Canoe Tree Press Share this review: Copy link Facebook LinkedIn X (Twitter) WhatsApp Pinterest A happy iguana in Miami Beach turns grumpy when his tree home is cut down and his routine is disrupted. Displaced and disheartened, his gloom only lifts when a charismatic green parrot offers his friendship and invites him to a new home. At its core, “Grumpy the Iguana” is a gentle exploration of how one’s world can be shattered by unexpected change. The protagonist is not born "Grumpy"; in fact, he begins the story as a happy creature whose happiness is rooted in the simple, rhythmic safety of his daily routine in Miami’s Flamingo Park. When his home—a beloved tree—is cut down, the loss of his physical space leads to the loss of his identity, transforming him into the irritable character of the title. Brighter days shine when the Green Parrot is introduced. Rather than offering toxic positivity or trying to "fix" the iguana, the parrot offers something more profound: presence and compassion, recognizing “Grumpy” just needs a friend, and “someone to understand.” Susan Marie Chapman handles the concept of grief and loss with a lightness suitable for young children. The book doesn't shy away from the fact that Grumpy is, well, grumpy. It validates the idea that it is okay to be upset when things go wrong. Through the Green Parrot, the book illustrates empathy, and how being a "true friend" often means just listening and providing a safe space for someone to be unhappy until they are ready to move on. “Grumpy the Iguana” will resonate with children who have difficulty with transitions or sensory changes. The story is particularly effective for children who thrive on routine as it mirrors the anxiety kids feel when their "schedule" is disrupted. Natalia Loseva’s illustrations are the perfect palette for the book. Her watercolor style is vibrant and lush, capturing the tropical warmth of Florida. In addition, the character design of the iguana’s expressions are highly communicative, making his internal emotions clear to even the youngest "readers" who are just looking at the pictures. The art balances the "heaviness" of the theme with bright, cheerful colors, ensuring the tone of the book remains an uplifting experience overall. While the message is powerful, the layout’s varying font sizes and colors are bold textual shifts emphasizing key emotional words and keep readers engaged. “Grumpy the Iguana” is a charming, emotionally intelligent addition to any child's library. It manages to turn a "bad day" into a lifelong lesson on the power of friendship and the ability to find a "new normal" after a loss. It is a compassionate read that treats a child's feelings with the respect they deserve. The story teaches important lessons about change and empathy in an easy observant narrative. It is the first book in “A Grumpy the Iguana and Green Parrot Adventure” series. Previous Next

Learn more about Lee Woodman Colorscapes < Back Lee Woodman Colorscapes A Decade in Color: Lee Woodman’s Latest Triumph Lee Woodman’s Colorscapes , the most recent installment in her celebrated "Scapes" series, has emerged as a stellar entry of the 2026 Independent Press Award season, garnering a Distinguished Favorite in the poetry category. This collection, published by Shanti Arts Publishing, serves as a masterclass in ekphrastic poetry, blending Woodman’s deep-seated connection to visual art with her lyrical prowess. The Independent Press Award recognition for Colorscapes comes at an auspicious time, and is particularly poignant in 2026, as it marks the culmination of a decade-long project for Woodman. The book explores the sensory and emotional weight of the color spectrum, from the vibrant "Sari Reds" of her childhood in India to the intellectual "Gallery Greys" of her career at the Smithsonian. Beyond the award itself, Woodman’s impact on the 2026 Independent Press Award cycle extends to this year’s BookCAMP 2026 in Newark, New Jersey. Lee is a featured expert, leading sessions on "Crafting and Marketing a Series." Her success story provides a structure for independent authors to think about and how to build a cohesive literary brand without sacrificing artistic integrity. Colorscapes is moving beyond niche poetry circles into a broader cultural conversation. Her work has been praised for its "painterly precision" and its ability to make the reader "see" language. As Lee bridges the gap between the visual and the verbal, her Independent Press Award victory solidifies her legacy as one of the most significant voices in contemporary independent literature. Share this article Facebook X (Twitter) WhatsApp LinkedIn Pinterest Copy link

< Back The Book Manufacturing Mastered Conference September 25, 2025 at 3:29:05 PM BookCAMP magazine by Printed Word Reviews recently attended and sponsored a table at The Book Manufacturers’ Institute (BMI)’s "Book Manufacturing Mastered" conference on September 16, 2025. This event brought together suppliers, manufactures, printers, and publishers as well as association publishing industry professionals to discuss key trends and challenges. The conference, which was organized in partnership with several other industry associations, provided a forum for different disciplines to collaborate, build understanding, and propose solutions. The day was structured around a series of panels, discussions, and networking opportunities. The conference was structured around a series of panels, discussions, and networking opportunities, to establish a shared goal, foster understanding, and propose solutions. The day kicked off with the panel “ Supply Chain Panel – Where do things stand today?” Experts such as Dom DeSapio ( Boston Consulting Group), Bill Rojack ( Midland Paper) , and Andy Fetherman ( Muller Martini) discussed the current state of the supply chain, a topic of critical importance in today's global market. With tariffs and EUDR in focus, a robust supply chain discussion transpired. Next, “The Economics of Printing” delved into the financial aspects of printing. Panelists Rich Letchinger ( Sheridan) , Dwight Vicks ( Vicks) , Matt Kennell ( Versa Press) , and Jonathan Huddart ( CPI) offered insights into the costs and economics driving the printing sector. Comments centered around the additional cost of compliance. The last panel “The Economics of Publishing” had Todd McGarity ( Hachette), Jenn Paulson (Johns Hopkins Press) , and Claudia Pilcher ( Scholastic) shared their expertise on the economic pressures and business models within publishing. The afternoon was dedicated to interactive roundtable discussions on AI, EUDR, Printing, Distribution, and other topics. These discussions provide a platform for attendees to engage directly with peers and experts on specific topics, fostering collaboration and problem-solving. The day concludes with a reception and table-top exhibitions, offering a chance for attendees to network and explore new technologies and services from sponsors like Bradford & Bigelow and Alberta Newsprint Company. BookCAMP’s assessment of the "Book Manufacturing Mastered" conference was that it’s an opportunity for industry publishing professionals from different parts of the publishing industry to understand the big picture issues and attempt to achieve common goals. There was sharing of valuable knowledge, networking with colleagues, and being informed about the latest developments shaping the future of book manufacturing that made this conference worthwhile. Share this article Copy link LinkedIn Facebook X (Twitter) WhatsApp Pinterest

Learn more about Matthew J. Louis < Back Matthew J. Louis Bridging the Gap: "Hiring Veterans" and the Untapped Potential of Military Talent Matthew J. Louis, driven by a powerful mission to dismantle the civil-military divide, has penned "Hiring Veterans: How To Leverage Military Talent For Organizational Growth," a compelling guide aimed at unlocking the immense potential residing within the veteran community. Louis's motivation extends beyond mere employment; he envisions a nation where service members seamlessly transition into fulfilling careers, thereby impacting not only their individual well-being but also the broader economy and national security. "I became an author by trying to eliminate the civil-military divide in the US," Louis explains. He believes that when veterans secure optimal career paths, their suicide rates decrease, and the organizations that hire them experience significant productivity gains. This ripple effect, he argues, strengthens the national economy and reinforces security, showcasing to future generations the positive outcomes of military service. Louis's inspiration stems from a profound respect for those who have shaped his life. He credits his father and his "West Point brothers and sisters in arms," individuals who challenge the status quo and strive for a better future. He also expresses deep gratitude to his wife, Michelle, and their sons, Jack, Nick, and Will, for their unwavering support. "Veterans are not a broken talent pool; they are a misunderstood and underutilized talent pool," Louis asserts. He passionately advocates for the recognition of veterans' unique skills and experiences, emphasizing their ability to drive organizational productivity. His book serves as a practical guide for businesses seeking to tap into this rich resource, providing insights and strategies for effective veteran recruitment and integration. "Hiring Veterans" is more than just a business manual; it's a call to action. Louis's work illuminates the symbiotic relationship between veteran employment and national prosperity, urging organizations to recognize and leverage the invaluable talent that veterans bring to the table. By bridging the civil-military divide, Louis aims to create a more equitable and prosperous future for both veterans and the nation as a whole. Share this article Facebook X (Twitter) WhatsApp LinkedIn Pinterest Copy link

< Back Beyond the Page: Decoding the London Book Fair 2026 May 2, 2026 at 11:28:59 AM The London Book Fair (LBF) 2026, held from March 10–12 at the iconic Olympia London, delivered another year of the trade show for rights deals and networking. In addition, it marked a historical pivot for the industry, serving as the launchpad for the National Year of Reading and a battleground for the defining debate of the decade: the “Human-First” AI revolution. With an estimated 30,000 visitors and 1,000 exhibitors, LBF 2026 transformed Kensington into a bustling hub of literary activism and technological forecasting. The fair’s dominant narrative was dictated by the National Year of Reading (themed “Go All In”). Against a backdrop of declining literacy rates and a “reading for pleasure” crisis, industry leaders sent a clear message: books must be treated as a public good, not just a commodity. Joanna Prior, CEO of Pan Macmillan and Chair of the National Literacy Trust, delivered a stirring “Reading Crisis” keynote arguing that the decline in reading is a more immediate threat to the industry than Artificial Intelligence. Tom Weldon, CEO of Penguin Random House UK, outlined a vision for the industry to “seize a once-in-a-generation opportunity” to re-engage the public through schools, libraries, and local communities, with the aim to refill a pipeline of readers. If 2025 was about the fear of Artificial Intelligence, 2026 was about its application. The Tech Theatre was the most crowded corner of the fair, focusing on “Practical AI” that reduces friction in editorial workflows and improves accessibility. In one of the fair’s most talked-about moments, the “Don't Steal this Book” initiative saw 10,000 authors “publish” empty books. This silent protest targeted tech companies using copyrighted works to train Large Language Models without compensation. Audible CEO Bob Carrigan celebrated 20 years in the UK, showcasing how AI-powered alt-text and intelligent sound design are making literature more accessible to the visually impaired and neurodivergent audiences. Other notables were authors Alice Oseman, Jo Nesbo, and Mike Gayle on the continuation of the “YA Boom”; and still readers are craving “human-centric” storytelling. For sustainability, Mary Glenn (UN Publications) maintained that decarbonizing the supply chain is no longer optional; Net Zero by 2040 is the target. In the area of emerging voices, Sanjee de Silva (Sweet Cherry) offered a poignant reminder that independent presses are at the forefront of regional and diverse representation for emerging voices. As the fair concluded, three trends emerged that will likely dominate the global publishing circuit through 2027: Publishers are moving away from “AI-generated content” and toward AI-supported production (automated metadata, alt-text for images, and rights management). A significant focus on Georgian literature and indigenous languages (Gaelic, Welsh, Irish) signaled a shift toward hyper-localism in a globalized market. Led by the UN, there is a renewed push to use books as tools for climate literacy, ensuring that sustainability isn't just about paper and ink, but the content itself. LBF 2026 proved that while the tools of the trade are shifting toward silicon and code, the heartbeat of the industry remains the “human-first” connection between an author and a reader. Share this article Copy link LinkedIn Facebook X (Twitter) WhatsApp Pinterest