Printed Word Reviews, Vol. 4, Issue 2

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CALLING ALL PUBLISHERS AND AUTHORS FROM ANYWHERE

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WHO CAN ENTER?

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STEP-BY-STEP INSTRUCTIONS 1. Decide which books or audiobooks (copyright date within the past three years is recommended to enter into this year’s competition.

Print and audiobooks can be submitted by: • independent publishers • hybrid publishers • self-published authors • university presses • association presses • small, medium and big house presses

2. Calculate the total entry fee.

Choose which categories, https://www.nycbigbookaward.com/categories to enter each book into. You may enter a book into as many categories as you’d like. The fee for the first category is $99. Any additional book categories for that same book is $79 per category. SINGLE BOOK, MULTIPLE CATEGORIES: One who enters “Book One” in Children’s Educational and Book Cover Design Children’s category, the entry fee is $99 + $79 = $178.

MULTIPLE BOOKS: One who enters “Book One” in Children’s Educational and Book Cover Design Children’s category, the entry fee is $99 + $79 = $178, and “Book Two” in Mystery and New Fiction (first-time published), the entry fee is $99 + $79 = $178, so $178 + $178 = $356 in total book entry fees.

* including any of the big five publishing houses and their imprints

Outside of the big five publishing houses, any publisher or author may submit to both competitions, IndependentPressAward.com (every spring); and NYCBigBookAward.com (every fall).

See webpages for complete details.

WHEN CAN I ENTER the NYC Big Book Award?

We are on a rolling submission, approximately every two and a half months, with two hard deadlines: (1) September 1, 2024 to December 30, 2024 (2) March 1, 2025 to August 15, 2025

3. Download a form from this page, https://www.nycbigbookaward.com/submitviamail OR submit the entry form online on this page, https://www.nycbigbookaward.com/submit-online Complete form.

Final entries must be received no later than August 15, 2025. This final deadline will not be extended.

4. For print books, email a PDF or epub file to: Gabby@NYCBigBookAward.com (No Kindle Gifts). Please mail ONE copy of your print book, even if it's entered in multiple categories.

For audiobooks, you may email us a redeemable Audible gift code.

What if I miss the deadline? Enter our spring program Independent Press Award as we take books until December 2025 for IndependentPressAward.com.

IF SUBMITTING application form and payment ONLINE, you may send a book directly from Amazon.com or other retailer/printer: NO PAPERWORK IS REQUIRED.

ENTRY FEE $99 per title/per category, plus $79 for any additional category.

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That’s right, no limitation on where the author is located or the topic of the book.

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Submit your book on any subject for the 2025 NYC Big Book Award!

5. Pay via PayPal button on the website or mail a check, along with your books and printed entry form, and ship to: NYC Big Book Award Attn: Gabby Olczak 63 Clinton Road Glen Ridge, NJ 07028 Phone: +1 973-969-1899 All international checks or money orders must have “USD” or “US Dollar” pre-printed on the check/money order.

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PUBLISHER'S LETTER Dear Readers, Authors, Publishers and Publishing Enthusiasts, It is with immense pleasure and excitement that we unveil the distinguished recipients of the 2025 Independent Press Award. In a year marked by extraordinary literary talent and a vibrant independent publishing scene, we've had the privilege of witnessing the power of storytelling in its most authentic form.

The Independent Press Award celebrates the dedication, creativity, and unwavering spirit of independent publishers and authors.

In 2025, we received a record number of submissions, each showcasing the unique voices and perspectives that enrich our literary landscape. The Independent Press Award is faced the challenging task of selecting the best of the best across 12 main categories, and over 100 subcategories, and the final decisions reflect the remarkable quality of the works submitted.

In a world increasingly dominated by digital media, the enduring power of the written word remains undeniable. Independent publisher authors and small to mid-size presses play a vital role in fostering innovation, diversity, and artistic freedom, and we are honored to recognize their exceptional contributions.

This year’s winners exemplify the breadth and depth of independent publishing. From compelling narratives that transport us to distant worlds to thought-provoking explorations of contemporary issues, these books have captivated our hearts and minds.

The Printed Word Reviews magazine has been issued the following ISSNs by the U.S. ISSN Center, Library of Congress, Washington, D.C.: Format: Online Format: ISSN 3067-011X. The title was previously published under the Independent Press Award and NYC Big Book Award Present and was published eight times per year with the following ISSNs by the U.S. ISSN Center, Library of Congress, Washington, D.C.: Format: Online Format: ISSN 2836-9157; and the Print Format: ISSN 2836-9149.

Any questions or comments, please contact the Publisher Ted Olczak at Ted@GabbyBookAwards.com or Ted@PrintedWordReviews.com.

We extend our heartfelt congratulations to all the winners, finalists, and participants. Your passion for storytelling inspires us all.

We invite you to explore the list of award-winning books and discover the remarkable talent that defines the independent publishing community. In these pages, you will find stories that challenge, enlighten, and entertain. To see the complete list of winners, please visit www.independentpressaward.com/2025winners.

No portion of this magazine may be reproduced without express permission from the publisher.

All rights reserved. No part of this magazine may be reproduced or transmitted in any form or by any means, electronic or mechanical, including photocopying, recording, or by an information storage and retrieval system - except by a reviewer who may quote brief passages in a review to be printed in a magazine or newspaper - without permission in writing from the publisher. To submit your book for review, send to: Printed Word Reviews, 63 Clinton Rd, Glen Ridge, NJ 07028. Allow 8 -12 weeks. Unpaid reviews are not guaranteed. More details available on our website at www.printedwordreviews.com/ To submit your book, visit our websites:

Here's to the enduring power of independent publishing and the transformative magic of books.

Fall 2025: www.nycbigbookaward.com/ (More consumer focused; different judging; allows for all authors and publishers to participate; announced in the fall of every year)

Read and be great,

Spring 2026: www.independentpressaward.com/ Ted@GabbyBookAwards.com or Ted@PrintedWordReviews.com, or visit our website, www.independentpressaward.com/advertise

JOIN

PWR’s MEMBERSHIP

Publisher

monthly (only $5 per month) or annually ($50 per year)

Next, Join Us at BookCAMP 2025 to continue Your Publishing Adventure

a. Four issues of BookCamp Magazine included at NO CHARGE with an annual membership. b.

Small Press and Fall Trade Book Fairs? (AUGUST 2025 special supplement) c.

For aspiring and current publishers and authors, the journey doesn't end here. The Independent Press Award is dedicated to fostering a thriving independent publishing scene. Join us at BookCAMP 2025 www.ipabookcamp.com and connect with fellow wordsmiths, industry experts, and potential collaborators for three days of practical and useful book strategies. I look forward to seeing you there!

other publishing professionals. d. Sign up now & receive an ADDITIONAL BONUSES as we add them throughout the year! (Outside of the United States /International digital magazine only). https://www.independentpressaward.com/membership

www.PrintedWordReviews.com

Ted Olczak

TED OLCZAK

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TABLE of CONTENTS 2

Call for entries for the 2025 NYC Big Book Award

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IPA BookCAMP 2025 & AWP Author Signings

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Publisher’s Letter

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The GAB TALKS with Ann Mracek, author of Unpacking the Attic: A Path To Healing Your Inner Child

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PWR's UP CLOSE & PERSONAL with Angela Harris: Finding Love in the Margins: One Author's Journey to Redefine Romance

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2025 Independent Press Award Winners & Distinguished Favorites Listings

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PWR's UP CLOSE & PERSONAL with Franke James: From Canvas to Climate: How a Worried Artist Accidentally Became an Award-Winning Author

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Call for "40 Under Forty in Publishing"

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Call for entries for the 2026 Independent Press Award

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Ann Mracek

Author: Unpacking the Attic, A Path to Healing Your Inner Child

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npacking the Attic, A Path to Healing Your Inner Child was written by Ann M. Mracek. She is an author, storyteller, illustrator, composer, singer, dancer and speaker.

The book is a 2025 Independent Press Award Distinguished Favorite in the Self Help Motivational category. Ann is also the author and illustrator of the children’s book Friendship Flies the Sun: The Ancient Egyptian Legend of Scarab Beetle and the novel for young readers: My Best Friends Live in the Forest: The Adventures of Albert which she narrates on YouTube. She is currently working on an adult novel, Through Eternal Time.

Ann earned both a bachelor’s and master’s degree in music theory composition from the University of Kansas, where she also studied painting and silversmithing.

Ann teaches private piano, voice and music composition. She has been belly dancing since 1979 and is the founder and director of the Aabla Raqs Belly Dance Company. Ann’s work focuses on kindness, compassion and selflessness.

She lives with her husband Richard in St. Louis, Missouri.

Gabby: Unpacking the Attic represents unpacking physical belongings, but it metaphorically speaks to unpacking the attic of your mind. The book is part memoir and part guide to healing. Share your story with us.

age. How can folks navigate and find joy in that transition period?

Ann: My parents decided that they were going to move into an assisted living apartment after 56 years in their home.

They wanted everything to find a new home and be repurposed. As the items from my childhood were literally brought out of the attic I began to relive long suppressed childhood traumas and memories.

I gave myself permission to be open and honest, to be vulnerable, to re-experience childhood traumas, and to try to back up and distance myself from the emotional triggering response that the child had to a more educated, more refined, broader perspective.

Ann: Retrospection is a very powerful healing elixir.

Gabby: You and your husband Richard have traveled to 26 countries. Your experiences have obviously been a powerful influence in your writing and your creativity. Share the most interesting place that you have visited and how it sparked your creativity and your narratives.

Gabby: You talk about reframing your past traumas from an adult perspective. rather than a child's perspective, which is so essential to the healing process.

Ann: I found out that even childhood traumas can be reframed, learn from it and be an inspiring experience. Even though at the time it didn't seem like that. Now I see that it was an essential puzzle piece for me to become the creative, thriving adult that I am now.

Ann: I'd have to say Morocco. I related so strongly to the sense of place there, to the sense of community there, to the point that when we were in Fez, I walked into a riad and I suddenly felt like I'd been there before.

Gabby: I don't know if our listeners are aware of this, but you are a YouTube sensation with your children's novel, My Best Friends Live in The Woods: The Adventures of Albert.

Gabby: You pointed out a really interesting statistic: there are 210 million baby boomers and Gen X millennials in the US. We have a huge thing in common, watching our parents www.PrintedWordReviews.com

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There are 85 chapters and you have over 100,000 subscribers. The characters are animals. How did you come to that decision?

compassion. Each chapter has a focus.

Gabby: In Unpacking The Attic and My Best Friends Live in The Woods you’ve written about what you've known and what you've experienced. What can folks discover?

Ann: It removes any prejudices of race, religion and socioeconomic alliances to politics or country. It makes a very pure, focused message on just the spiritual or the emotional concept that I'm exploring.

Ann: My Best Friends Live in The Woods and Unpacking The Attic go together so well, because this is extending that love and compassion to my inner child, and then also my parents and my husband.

My Best Friends Live in The Woods is extending that same love and compassion to the children, the world, not just your inner child, but all children.

At the end of each story, we have a discussion and questions so that you can relate the concepts to your own life.

It's for teachers, parents, mentors, caregivers, to watch with children, to empower them to have these conversations about the concepts of bullying, community, and

Listen to additional author interviews on www.thegabtalks.com To learn more about Ann Mracek and her work, visit annmracek.com

American Poetry/Horror/LGBTQ Hisses Like Whispers HED FAVORITE UIS •P R NG TI

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Clem Stambaugh A highly engaging work that simultaneously combines Clem’s darkly romantic poems with the intriguing story of vampire Henri Martineau and his murderously lustful quest to possess Olivia Dandridge. Through both prose and verse, Clem reveals, Olivia holds her own shadowy secret that may have monstrous consequences even for a powerful and ancient vampire.

ISBN: 979-8989675869 Price $16.99 hardcover; $9.99 paperback; read for free with Kindle Unlimited Available exclusively at Amazon.com

American Poetry/LGBTQ/Love Poetry The Ghosts of Gold: The poetry of Clem Stambaugh Clem Stambaugh In his second book of poetry, Clem Stambaugh continues to draw on a lifetime of love, life, and soul-searching. Where his previous volume, the top-selling In Black and Light, took a deep dive into and out of relationships, melancholy, and discovery, The Ghosts of Gold empowers him to follow fresh paths to find new “words,” as he calls his poetry.

ISBN: 979-8218249045 Price $11.99 hardcover; $5.99 paperback; free with Kindle Unlimited Available exclusively at Amazon.com

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Finding Love in the Margins:

One Author's Journey to Redefine Romance

Angela Harris

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healthy teenage passion for romance novels, Angela Harris began writing at 13. Yet, as pages turned and stories unfolded, a glaring absence became impossible to ignore: where were the stories that reflected her community? Where were the tales of love and desire that resonated with women of color?

This question, posed in the heart of a young writer, would shape a lifelong mission. Early attempts to bridge this gap were met with a disheartening response. A major publishing house, Harlequin, in a moment that would define her path, asserted “that Black women were content reading about white women but the reverse wasn't true” Harris expressed, “so they didn't see a need for a novel that looked like other communities.” That dismissal, rather than extinguishing the flame, ignited a fire.

It was then Harris knew she had to create the stories that represented the kinds of stories she longed to read.

And so, she did. With a pen as her weapon and a heart as her guide, she embarked on a journey to craft romance novels that centered the experiences of women of color. More than mere escapism, these stories are woven with biblical principles, offering a framework for navigating the complexities of real life with grace.

The "Where the Heart of a Woman is a Taste and Touch" series is a testament to this unwavering dedication. Each page is a celebration of love, desire, and the pursuit of healthy relationships, all within the context of the unique challenges and triumphs faced by women of color.

"My writing is more than just a passion; it's a calling," she explains. "I write to inspire women to believe love and desire”, to know that they are worthy of fulfilling “healthy relationships,” and to see their own stories reflected in the pages of a book.

In a world where representation matters, this author's work stands as a beacon of hope and affirmation. She has taken the perceived limitations placed upon her and transformed them into a powerful platform for storytelling. By weaving faith and real life situations into her romance novels, she has created a unique space within the genre.

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Shaded indicates winner in category Action/Adventure Flares Up: A Story Bigger Than The Atlantic by Niamh McAnally Against the Wind by A.W. Baldwin Melinda West: Monster Gunslinger by KC Grifant Addiction & Recovery Unhooked: Free Yourself from Addiction Forever by Adi Jaffe PhD Curious: A Foster Mom's Discovery of an Unexpected Solution to Drugs and Addiction by Christina Dent Recovering Out Loud by Kristy Henderson

The Littlest Pelican Part 1 (A Grumpy the Iguana and Green Parrot Adventure) by Susan Marie Chapman

Freeing Teresa: A True Story about My Sister and Me by Franke James

Animals/Pets Ode to a Pug by Jill Rosen

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Book Cover Design Nonfiction Price Writer: The nine-step method to becoming a highly successful general insurance pricing leader by Jeremy Keating Book Cover Interior Design Nonfiction

Arts & Entertainment

No One Will Save Us: A novel

by Julie L. Brown

On Healing: Finding Wholeness Beyond the Limits of Medicine by Amitha Kalaichandran

Sailing to Noon by Hoyt Rogers

Wink: Young Adult Tales that Wink at Classic Children's Books by Henry Herz

Audiobooks

Alternative Medicine

Merciless Waters by Rae Knowles

Artists Remaking Medicine: The practice of imagination and the power to create a better healthcare future

by Emily F. Peters and Collaborators

African American Fiction

Perseverance a Memoir: One Woman's Journey from Ghana to the United Nations by Emelia Timpo, Ph.D.

Book Cover Design Fiction

Anthology

A Place of Creation by Fariba Bogzaran

African American Nonfiction

Buster the Brave by Carla Carne Osbone

The Littlest Pelican Part 2 (A Grumpy the Iguana and Green Parrot Adventure) by Susan Marie Chapman

UnLoaded by Jamie Weatherly

When It All Falls Down by Chinedu Achebe

Book Cover Design Childrens

Resilience@Work - How to Coach Yourself Into a Thriving Future by Simon T. Bailey Business: Entrepreneurship & Small Business The Start of All Things Good: A Complete Guide to Building Your Business by Danielle Billetz-Reppert

Born in Space: Unlocking Destiny by Jeremy Clift; Narrated by Gabrielle GumbsGordon

The Illusion of Innovation: Escape "Efficiency" and Unleash Radical Progress by Elliott Parker

Exits by Stephen C. Pollock

The Wheel of 8 Fears of Entrepreneurs by Celia Soonets

Wages of Empire by Michael J Cooper

Business: General

With Love, From Planet B by Zaayin Salaam MD

How To Build Winning Teams Again And Again (Book #1 of 3) by James Scoulle

Biography In Search of Falling Stars: H.H. Nininger's Classic "Find a Falling Star" Revised & Expanded by H.H. Nininger & Jim Banks

From Invisible to Icon: How to Become a Known Expert in Your Industry by John Fareed with Sean Hunter

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Karmic Selling: Earning Business by Earning Trust by Stan Gwizdak Seeking Fairness at Work: Cracking the New Code of Greater Employee Engagement, Retention & Satisfaction by Hanna HaslKelchner, MBA, JD Speakership is Leadership: a Guide for Sudden Leaders Who Need to Lead with Their Words. Yesterday. by Margaret Watts Romney The Trusted Learning Advisor: The Tools, Techniques and Skills You Need to Make L&D a Business Priority by Keith Keating Business: Motivational TUNE IN: How to Make Smarter Decisions In A Noisy World by Nuala Walsh Good Awkward: How to Embrace the Embarrassing and Celebrate the Cringe to Become The Bravest You by Henna Pryor Resilience@Work - How to Coach Yourself Into a Thriving Future by Simon T. Bailey The Business Artist by Adam Boggs Cancer Living with Pancreatic Cancer -- A Patient and Family Guide

by Earl Campazzi, M.D. Career Mission Transition: Navigating the Opportunities and Obstacles to Your Post-Military Career by Matthew J. Louis

Audiobooks

Children’s, Intermediate Chapter Books

With Love, From Planet B

The NOLO

Zaayin Salaam MD

Liz Fahey, Uncle Jerry

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www.liz-fahey.com Military Nonfiction

ISBN: 978-1736866269 •Price $17.77 paperback

From Vicksburg to Bennett Place: The Long March to Victory

Available on Amazon, Barnes & Noble, and online bookstores.

www.planetbthebook.com

T.W. Harvey From Vicksburg to Bennett Place: The Long March to Victory relates that Captain Porter served as the aide-decamp to Brigadier General Mortimer Leggett, assisting the general as Major General Ulysses S. Grant’s Army of Tennessee moved south from Shiloh and fought in the Vicksburg and Atlanta campaigns. Once successful, the army, now under the command of Major General William Tecumseh Sherman, marched to the sea and then north through the Carolinas. Two weeks after Robert E. Lee’s surrender to Grant, Joseph Johnston surrendered to Sherman at Bennett Place in No. Carolina, effectively ending the war. Captain George Porter lived through it all.

Fiction: Short Stories Misfits

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A bittersweet collection of compelling stories of people facing lives that aren’t quite working out. “Misfits lays bare people who are so convincingly drawn that they seem to be reported on rather than imagined.”

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ISBN: 979-8988013969 • $19.95

Available on Amazon, Barnes & Noble,

Available on Amazon and TWHarvey.net www.twharvey.net

and online bookstores.

www.markjharriswrites.com Tell Me My Story: Challenging the Narrative of Service Before Self by Dimple D. Dhabalia The Modern-Day Assistant: Build Your Influence and Boost Your Potential by Lucy Brazier Your Grass is Greener: Use What You Have. Get What You Want. At Work and In Life. by Jason Silver Caregiving-General A Cup of Tea on the Commode: My Multi-Tasking Adventures of Caring for Mom. And How I Survived to Tell the Tale by Mark Steven Porro Chapter Books Eye of the Turtle by Gloria Barnett Danger in the Hills: A NOLO Story by Liz Fahey, Uncle Jerry www.IndependentPressAward.com

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ISBN: 979-8990449602 • Price $8.49

But Planet B won’t let anyone in... Join Zara and Lex on their hero’s journey as they dive deep within themselves to enter into this new home. Will they manage to cure themselves of the Three Spiritual Diseases that afflict all Earthlings? And will they get to survive on Planet B?

Mark Jonathan Harris

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Zara is a master lucid dreamer, training her team in this rare skill, so that one day, if a suitable earth-like exoplanet is found, they can safely teleport there. It seems her dreams are coming true when Lex, her girlfriend and team mathematician discovers Planet B.

Meet your new Distinguished Favorite! “Danger in the Hills: A NOLO Story” delivers thrills, chills, and the furry, giant 80-foot NOLO in a fast-paced adventure perfect for budding readers.

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We ignored the climate deadlines. The bombs made it worse. Now it’s 2085, and the 6th extinction event is unfolding.

Chick-Lit

Nurse Florence®, Tell Me About the Small Intestines. by Michael Dow, RN, MS

When Happily Ever After Fails

by Courtney Deane

Nurse Florence®, Tell Me About the Temporal Lobe. by Michael Dow, RN, MS

Children's-Educational Nurse Florence®, How Can I Help my Brain Work Better? by Michael Dow, RN, MS

Nurse Florence®, What are Antibodies? by Michael Dow, RN, MS

Nurse Florence®, How Can We Have Healthy Skin? by Michael Dow, RN, MS

Nurse Florence®, What are Seasonal Allergies? by Michael Dow, RN, MS

Nurse Florence®, How Do Cytokines Help the Immune System Do Its Job? by Michael Dow, RN, MS

Nurse Florence®, What are the Different Ways That Protein is Used by the Body? by Michael Dow, RN, MS

Nurse Florence®, Tell Me About Glucose. by Michael Dow, RN, MS Nurse Florence®, Tell Me About the Gallbladder. by Michael Dow, RN, MS

Nurse Florence®, What is E. coli? by Michael Dow, RN, MS Nurse Florence®, What is Good to Have in a First Aid Kit for Heat Emergencies? by Michael Dow, RN, MS Nurse Florence®, What is Hypothyroidism? by Michael Dow, RN, MS Nurse Florence®, What is Impetigo? by Michael Dow, RN, MS

Nurse Florence®, What is an Ear Infection? by Michael Dow, RN, MS

Nurse Florence®, Why Do I Need the Flu Shot? by Michael Dow, RN, MS

Nurse Florence®, What is Breast Cancer? by Michael Dow, RN, MS

Marco the Great and the Mystery of Phaseville by SK Bennett

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Nurse Florence®, What is Color Blindness or Poor Color Vision? by Michael Dow, RN, MS

Childrens: Christian Fiction www.PrintedWordReviews.com www.nycbigbookaward.com

From Canvas to Climate:

How a Worried Artist Accidentally Became an Award-Winning Author

Franke James CONTINUED ON PAGE 14 Penny Preaches: God Gives Good Gifts to Everyone! by Amy Dixon, Rob Dixon Childrens: Death and Dying Goodbye For Now by Dr. Lynsey Victoria Childrens: Fiction

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ranke James never envisioned herself as a writer. With an MFA and a passion for fine art, her path seemed clear: to express herself through visual mediums. However, a growing unease about the world's apathy towards climate change shifted her focus, leading to an unexpected literary journey.

James was deeply concerned about climate change, and “in 2006, I was writing long, well-researched articles," James recalls, but “I was getting zero response." Frustration mounted, until a breakthrough moment in January 2007. Her first illustrated essay, "A Green Winter: Will Global Warming Be Good for Canada?", a true story about climate change, resonated powerfully. Suddenly, the silence was broken.

"The response was instantaneous," she says. "An outpouring of comments, magazine articles, a request to publish the essay in an anthology, and even an invitation to turn it into an animated film." This unexpected success ignited a new creative fire. James began crafting more true stories about personal activism, tackling issues like giving up her SUV in "My

A Christmas Story by Allen Northcutt

They Do, Not You by Amy Leask Childrens: Poetry

Birth of the Chosen One: A First Nations Retelling of the Christmas Story by Terry M. Wildman

Ode to a Pug by Jill Rosen Childrens: Religion Fiction

Childrens: Humor

The Music Thief by Sophie Armstrong

Snoodles in Space, Episode 2: The Zoodles Strike Back by Steven Joseph

Blink and Glow by Raven Howell

Childrens: Inspirational/ Motivational

Not Finished Yet: Trusting God with All My Feelings by Sharon Garlough Brown The Secret Princess: A Tale of Hope by J.C. Prins Christian

Hello, Australia!: A Children's Picture Book Outback Adventure for Kids Ages 4-8 (Sophie & Stephie: The Travel Sisters) by Ekaterina Otiko

Acorn Adventures by Shane Svorec

Awakening to the Truth by Jerry Troyer

Your Magic by Kylee McGraneZarnoch

Hello, Hawaii!: A Children's Book Island Travel Adventure for Kids Ages 4-8 (Sophie & Stephie: The Travel Sisters 5)

by Ekaterina Otiko

Childrens: Nonfiction

Eternal Love: A Poetic Pathway to God's Heart and Mind by C. Peggy Atoche

Childrens: Holiday The Legend of Chris Moose, www.PrintedWordReviews.com

New Wine: A Journey into refueling your life in the spirit

by Dr. Susan Agbenoto Sunshine and Reign by CJ Sunshine

The Shadow World by Craig Ford and Caity Randall BE A SCRIBE: Working for a Better Life in Ancient Egypt by Michael Hoffen

Christian Fiction

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Idylls of the Collar by Mary Sheeran Son of Enoch: The Last Prophet by E.O. Shiflett Coffee-table Book Unrivaled: Sewanee 1899 by Norman Jetmundsen, Jr. and Karin Dupree Fecteau Comics and Graphic Novels Lycan: Solomon's Odyssey Chapter 1 by Dennis Robinson Nottingham by David Hazan Contemporary Novel Her Past Can't Wait by Jacqueline Boulden Cookbooks: General Modernist Bread at Home by Nathan Myhrvold Crafts (Arts) Shaded indicates winner in category

Mata Ortiz Poetry of the Clay: Pottery. Poems. Artists. by Charmayne Samuelson Crime Fiction Under the Radar by Peter Cumyn The Ferns by Meridith McKinnon The Voice of the Dog by David Benjamin Cross Genre Tangles by Kay Smith-Blum Anna's Shadow by Ingrid McCarthy Bottled Lightning by L.M. Weeks Deep Utopia: Life and Meaning in a Solved World by Nick Bostrom Fast Times, Big City by Shelly Frome Now You Are a Missing Person by Susan Hayden Thresholds by Hoyt Rogers Cultural and Social Issues Exit Wounds: How America's Guns Fuel Violence Across the Border by Ieva Jusionyte Immigrant Concepts: Life Paths to Integrations by Joachim O. F. Reimann, Ph.D. & Dolores I Rodríguez-Reimann, Ph.D. Voices Unheard: Practical Insights for Deepening Understanding and Creating Lasting Change: An Equity, Diversity, and Inclusion Success Guide by Lena Imada Cultural Heritage The Story of Rice by Xiaorong Zhang

A Turned World by Brandon Mordas

Current Events A Realistic Path to Peace: From Genocide to Global War... and How We Can Stop It

by Dee C Knight

Dissonance of Bird Song by Alexandra Beaumont Lost Blades by Liz Sauco

Death and Dying

Slaying Paradise: Legend of The Iron Warrior, Vol. 1 by T.V. Holiday

Are You Ready? How to Build a Legacy to Die For by Kimberly Harms

The Mystic Vial by Stephanie Dean

Diet & Nutrition

The Wolf and the Favour by Catherine McCarthy

The 28 Day Runway: Your Pathway to The Healthy Lifestyle of Your Dreams by Christina Williams

Their Village, Their Fortress

by Dylan Madeley

Divorce

Fine Arts

Crush Your Divorce & Keep Your Faith by Bree SullivanHowell, J.D.

The Female Gaze in Art and Photography by Anita Selzer

The Committed Professor, A Memoir: My Fall From the Lectern to the Psych Ward by Dr. Kathi N. Miner

Fitness Built from Broken: A ScienceBased Guide to Healing Painful Joints, Preventing Injuries, and Rebuilding Your Body by Scott Hogan

Education Vademecum of English. A Complete Reference Guide for Teachers and Learners by Ana María López Jimeno

General Fiction

Environment Earth's Emergency Room: Saving Species as the Planet and Politics Get Hotter by Lowell E. Baier

Sailing to Noon by Hoyt Rogers Historical Fiction Omar's Choice by Cathy Sultan An American Nurse in Paris - Novels of the Great War by John F Andrews Sky Walker Tehawennihárhos: Charter by S Minsos The Irish Girl by Ashley E. Sweeney The Road to Moresco by Mark Jamilkowski Until the Stars Align by Carolyn Summer Quinn When Bone Melts by Elise Keitz Harlow History: United States

The Truth About Horses by Christy Cashman Roads Not Taken by T. A. Keenleyside

Delaware from Railways to Freeways by Dave Tabler

The Secret of Villa Rosa by Lucia Falcone

Wonder of the West: The Adventurous Life of John C. Frémont by Stephen G. Yanoff

Gift Books

Among the Burning by Caytlyn Brooke

Exploring Wine Regions Mexico by Michael C. Higgins, PhD

Erotica

Grief Scrambled or Sunny-Side Up?: Living Your Best Life after Losing Your Greatest Love by Loren Ridinger

Fantasy A Chasm of Night by Peter Kaplan

Hispanic / Latin

Lynched: Mob Murders on the Northern Great Plains, 18821931 by Doreen Chaky and Adrienne Stepanek

Epic Fantasy

The Union Bar: Lesbian Erotica by Emma Collier

Healing Healthcare: EvidenceBased Strategies to Mend Our Broken System by Sharon M. Weinstein and Dina Readinger

Health & Fitness

History: World Lead, Follow, or Fail: The Human Struggle for Productivity, and how Nations, Organizations, and People will Prosper in our Changing World by Peter J. Brews Holocaust Heroines: Jewish Women Saving Jewish Children by Beverley Chalmers and Dana Solomon

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FROM PAGE 12 SUV and Me Say Goodbye" and battling city hall for a green driveway in "Paradise Unpaved."

particularly when caring for her mother after a stroke, taught her the power of perseverance and compassion.

Posting her essays online attracted the attention of New Society Press, which published her collection, "Bothered By My Green Conscience," in 2009. This marked the official transition from artist to author. Since then, James has penned three more books, culminating in her latest triumph, "Freeing Teresa: A True Story about My Sister and Me."

"He fought the doctors, who advised that he pull the plug. Instead, he brought my mother home and cared for her," she recounts. "They celebrated every small achievement as a victory! He refused to put her in a nursing home and cared for her every day for the next sixteen years until her death at home."

Another powerful inspiration is the late Terry Fox, the one-legged athlete who ran across Canada to raise funds for cancer research. "He was the one-legged athlete who ran a marathon a day halfway across Canada in 1980—until cancer struck again," James says. Fox's legacy of determination and altruism continues to resonate, inspiring her sister Teresa and countless others.

This deeply personal narrative, chronicling her fight to rescue her youngest sister from a nursing home, has garnered significant acclaim, winning the 2025 Independent Press Award in Audiobooks as well as the NYC Big Book Award for Social/Political Change and the Audiobook Nonfiction categories. The audiobook, brought to life by a talented cast including Jackie Blackmore, Lauren Potter, and Dayleigh Nelson, further amplifies the story's emotional impact.

"Every one of us is important. Just look at what one person can do," James quotes Fox, a sentiment that echoes throughout her own journey. From a concerned artist to an award-winning author, Franke James proves that a single voice, fueled by passion and conviction, can indeed make a difference. Her story is a testament to the transformative power of storytelling and the enduring impact of personal activism.

James attributes her drive to activism and caregiving to the profound influence of her late father, a lawyer who exemplified unwavering dedication to justice and family. "He greatly influenced me and inspired me to become an activist for justice and a caregiver," she explains. His unwavering support, Horror Shadow of the Hidden by Kev Harrison Martha's Notebook: A Zombie Apocalypse Trilogy by C. Fulster The Demon of Devil's Cavern

by Brennan LaFaro The Woodcutter by Stephanie Ellis How-to The Non-Obvious Guide to Drawing Your Future: Solve Problems, Explain Ideas, Sell Anything by Patti Dobrowolski Humor Flat by Neal Rabin Ahnwee Days by William E Burleson Canceled by Tim Cann

Leadership Stereotypes: A Barrier-Breaking Approach to Transform the Leadership Landscape by Laura Barnard

Paper Planes by Jennie Wood

Incurable Optimist by Jennifer Cramer-Miller

Price Writer: The nine-step method to becoming a highly successful general insurance pricing leader by Jeremy Keating

LGBTQ Fiction-Young Adult Fiction (Comics and Graphic Novels)

Judaism

Legal Thriller

GETTING SAUCED—How I Learned Everything I Know About Food from Working in TV by Karen S. Katz Lights Out Lizzie by James Hanna Inspiration

The Final Account by Jeff Cooper

The Reluctant Conductor by Tim Turner & Moisey Gorbaty The Book of Izzy by Ben Gonshor

LGBTQ Fiction

Juvenile Fiction

The Photograph by Eve M. Riley

Digger: Dig or Die! by Deborah Cholette

The Touch of Her Voice by Sara Scott

Leadership

Zodiac Pets by Eric Giroux

Survive, Reset, Thrive: Leading Breakthrough Growth Strategy in Volatile Times by Rebecca Homkes

LGBTQ Fiction-Young Adult Fiction Confetti Realms by Nadia Shammas

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The Last Love Song by Kalie Holford

The Last Session Vol. 1: Roll For Initiative by Jasmine Walls LGBTQ Nonfiction Dueling Photographers: George Dureau and Robert Mapplethorpe by Jack Fritscher, PhD

I'm Not Dead...Yet: How I Turned My Misfortunes Into Strengths by Dr. Joshua J. Caraballo It Was Her New York: true stories and snapshots by C.O. Moed Literary Fiction

Without You Here by Jody Hobbs Hesler False Neutral by Joshua S. Narins Harmony’s Peace & Joy by Mary Hutchings Reed Quest of the Sleeping Princess

by Mary Sheeran Sailing to Noon by Hoyt Rogers Zodiac Pets by Eric Giroux Marketing & Public Relations Digital Threads: The Small Business and Entrepreneur Digital First Marketing Playbook by Neal Schaffer Finding Insight: Discovering the Non-Obvious Obvious Connection to Why People Do What They Do by Melinda Spaulding and Mitch Tull High-Impact Content Marketing: Strategies to Make Your Content Intentional, Engaging and Effective by Purna Virji The Powerful Publicity Prescription: Harness the Power of Public Relations to Become a Sought-After Global Industry Expert by Lilian Su Medical Thriller The Fragility of Light by Heather S Lonczak Prognosis: Guarded: The Breakthrough Novel of 1977 That Tried to Break Me by Alan Hollingsworth Memoir Redeemed: A Memoir of a Stolen Childhood by Penny Lane Memoirs of a Suburban Troublemaker by Ellen R.B. Smith

NOLA Face: A Latina's Life in the Big Easy by Brooke Champagne

Unlocking Kabbalah: A New Synthesis of Astrology, Tarot, and the Tree of Life by Thomas Weems

The Road to Courage: A Boy's Adventures on America's Last Frontier by Roy Taylor

Oracle of the Inbetween: 48 Cards + Guidebook by Tracee Dunblazier

Twice the Family: A Memoir of Love, Loss, and Sisterhood by Julie Ryan McGue

Multicultural-Fiction

Unlimited Heart: How To Transform Your Pain Into Purpose by Jim Kaveney Middle Grade Somebody's Someone by Linda Oatman High

Detroit Unrequited by J.A. Cancelmo

A Delicate Marriage by Margarita Barresi

His Majesty’s Legacy-The Outcast Queen by J.J. March

Secrets in the Wind by Rumki Chowdhury

Secrets in the Hollow: A Sleepy Hollow Novel by Barbara Dullaghan

The Beatle Who Vanished: 60th Beatles Anniversary Tour edition by Jim Berkenstadt

Intergalactic Jack and the Child of the Prophecy by Christopher Kezelos & Christine Kezelos

Mystery A Hush at Midnight by Marlene M. Bell

Military Fiction Cheerful Obedience by Patrick McLaughlin

A Small Mountain Murder: A Murder On Skis Mystery by Phil Bayly

One Day In The Fall: A Gulf War Story by Everett Riggs

Little Boy Blue by Margaret Fenton

Our Desperate Hour - Novels of the Great War by John F Andrews

Overture to Murder: A Julia Kogan Opera Mystery by Erica Miner

Red Lines by James Bultema

Sam Larsen Mysteries by Judy Quan

The Moldavian Gambit by Brad M. Meslin

The Not Quite Enlightened Sleuth by Verlin Darrow

Military Nonfiction

Nature

Captured Freedom by Steve Procko

Acorn Adventures by Shane Svorec

Say Yes: Foundational Lessons from Combat Town, the Quigley, and Taking Invisible Paths by Jon Michaels

New Adult Fiction The Story of Briar by Ian Griffin Drawn from Life by Sarah P. Blanchard

Mind, Body, Spirit

New Fiction

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Bad Pharma by Abraham Johns MD Conversations With My Mother, A Novel of Dementia on the Maine Coast by RonaldStéphane Gilbert

Fury in Her Eyes by Phillip Vega

Music

Dodging Cupcakes by Laura Pashley

The Making of BRIO McPRIDE

by R.A. Ruegg

The Whirring by Will J. Donnel New Nonfiction Passion Struck by John R. Miles Nonfiction DAMAGED HERITAGE: The Elaine Race Massacre and A Story of Reconciliation by J. Chester Johnson Tap Dancing on Everest, A Young Doctor's Unlikely Adventure by Mimi Zieman Novella AnaRose and Pharaoh’s Gold

by Mary Ann Bernal Paranormal Mystery/Thriller How to Hear Ghosts by David Griffiths Parenting & Family Unison Parenting: The Comprehensive Guide to Navigating Christian Parenthood with One Voice by Cecil Taylor Raising Badass Kids: The Savvy Parents' Guide to Predator-Proofing Tweens & Teens by CJ Scarlet www.PrintedWordReviews.com

The Destination Birth by Alex Bisset

Words by Katherine DavisGibbon

Performing Arts Courtroom Dramas on the Stage Volume 2 by Amnon Kabatchnik Personal Finance Wealth Your Way: A Simple Path To Financial Freedom by Cosmo P DeStefano The Money Revolution: The Essential Fintech Handbook on AI Banking, Cryptocurrency, RoboAdvisory, Neo Banking, Crowdfunding, And More by Sergey Tsabolov Personal Growth The Anxious Hippie by Lucie Dickenson Philosophy Purpose: What Evolution and Human Nature Imply about the Meaning of Our Existence by Samuel T. Wilkinson Culture Clubs: The Real Fate of Societies by S Minsos So Who is God, Anyway?: An Unorthodox Theory for Doubters, Skeptics, and Recovering Fundamentalists

by G. S. Payne Picture Books-Ages 4-8: Zion Learns to See by Terence Lester, Zion Lester Perky Panda Asks Are You Ok? by Maria La Selva Roglins by Anna Spencer That's What They Said by Amy Leask Winslow Scarecrow by Stephen G. Bowling

The Empire of Eunuchs: How the Republican Party Betrayed America by Richard Moss MD

Picture Books-All Ages

Political Thriller

Goodbye For Now by Dr. Lynsey Victoria

Cold Peace by Helena P. Schrader

Big, Brave Voice by Emily A. Reed, Illustrated by Rachel Dove

By Means of Peace by Don Johnston

The Dancing Darlings by Angela Kyparissis, Ph.D.

Righteous Allegiance by George Yuhasz Target: Hollywood by Lawrence Pintak

Poetry-Emotional Language Like Water: Poems

by Nancy Gerber

Preteen Fiction The Judgment Of Biestia by Christopher Bernard

Banana Girl by Paris Rosemont Hisses Like Whispers by Clem Stambaugh

Psychiatry/Psychology

Magicicada by Claire Millikin

An Impossible Life: A True Story of Hope and Mental Illness by Rachael Siddoway and Sonja Wasden

Orphic Wonder by KB Eliza Slim Blue Universe by Eleanor Lerman

How You Think And Feel Changes Your Body: Dynamic Body Psychology by Douglas Peterson

Twisted Threads by Joyce Meyers Poetry-Universe

Reference

SOULSCAPES by Lee Woodman

The Start of All Things Good: A Complete Guide to Building Your Business by Danielle Billetz-Reppert

After Naming the Animals by Barbara Ungar Blue Physics by Mary Lou Buschi

Murder in the West End: The Plays of Agatha Christie and Her Disciples by Amnon Kabatchnik

Dust Storms May Exist by Ben Groner III

Regional

Sometimes We Can Fall Asleep Below Stars And Already Be Home by David Joseph

The All-American Turkey Show: When Grand Forks, North Dakota, Was the Turkey Capital of the World, 19241942 by Gordon L. Iseminger

Visible Magic by Charles D.Williams Political

Relationships

When Liberty Enslaves - The Toxic Blend of Faith and Politics by Jerry Aveta

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The Connection Playbook: A Practical Guide to Building Deep, Meaningful, Harmonious Relationships by Andy Chaleff Religion Nonfiction It Takes Two to Torah by Abigail Pogrebin & Dov Linzer Legacy: Wisdom of African Traditions and the Bible by Chris Morehouse Religion: Fiction The Sower of Black Field: Inspired by the True Story of an American in Nazi Germany

by Katherine Koch Death of a Blue Jay by Nicholas D'Souza Sketches from a Sunlit Heaven

by Sarah Law Romance Royal Caleva: Gabriel by Nancy Herkness Acts of Commitment by NT Anderson Hookups, Hiccups, and Happenstances: Erotic Short Stories from the Sexual Revolution by Sam L Feldman Shilpa's Blue Crayon by Crystal Charlotte (CC) Lane Romantic Comedy Madcap Serenade by Dan Kopcow Considering Us by Jenn Bouchard Romantic Suspense Whose Hearts Align by Mara Purl In The Blood by Gary E Smith Run for Chapel Hill by S.M. Sros Panchapor

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Self-help: Motivational

New Adult and Romance

Ann M. Mracek

Fifteen-year-old Audrey Nielsen is awarded a scholarship to Great Gray, an elite private school on the Upper East Side, and she is thrust into a world of wealth, power, and privilege. She starts dating Bobby Dempsey, the sole heir to his family’s fortune, and everything seems to be going well. However, at the end of their senior year, dark family secrets resurface, threatening to destroy both their relationship and the great Dempsey dynasty.

Ann Mracek’s poignant memoir, set against the backdrop of emptying her parents’ home, explores the echoes of childhood and the hurts of the inner child.

Through personal stories and practical guidance, she offers insights into healing and self-discovery, showing readers how to offer love and acceptance to their inner child.

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Brianna MacMahon

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Unpacking the Attic

The Great Dempseys

ISBN: 978-0976648871 • Price $17.99 Available on Amazon, Barnes & Noble, and online bookstores.

Buy on Amazon: https://amzn.to/3CsX6QP

ISBN: 978-1732405141 $18.99 (on Amazon and Barnes & Noble) and $25.89 (on author website, shipping price included)

www.annmracek.com/

Available on Amazon, Barnes & Noble, and author website

authorbriannamacmahon.com THRILLER Romance

Code Name: Juggernaut

Hookups, Hiccups, and Happenstances: 202 5D IS

Sherman E Ross It’s America, early in the Twenty-First Century...Howard Brennan, a brilliant but deranged ex-USAF colonel and nuclear engineer, seethes with rage over being publically cashiered from the service after clashes with superiors over policy. Adrift and embittered, nothing seems to matter to him anymore...except obtaining vengeance against the federal government which destroyed his once promising career. He has devised the perfect means to achieve that vengeance. Jacqueline Lynch, alias ‘the Jack-L’ is a seductive, highly skilled and ruthless assassin---a hitwoman for WEREWOLF, a neo-Nazi terrorist group. She is in a romantic relationship with Brennan and has agreed to assist him in his plan. Douglas Rabson is an FBI agent investigating a string of murders attributed to the mysterious Jack-L. Step-bystep, the agent unravels details of the plan, and is in a race against time to stop the murderous pair before they can carry out the ultimate nightmare. Now fate has drawn Brennan, Lynch and Rabson together, culminating in a bizarre plot bearing the Code Name: Juggernaut...

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Erotic Short Stories from the Sexual Revolution

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Sam L Feldman

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“Feldman’s writing is clear and interesting. It grabs the reader’s attention with its vivid details and in-depth looks at the complicated nature of human desire.”

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ISBN: 978-1614687740 • Price $11.99

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A linked tale of pleasures across thirteen short stories set in the 1960s and 1970s taking you back to an era experimenting with free love and the reimagining of monogamy. A time when women were breaking barriers in the culture and the bedroom. A time when love and attraction didn’t have to overlap to embrace a beautiful meeting of minds and passions. Butch discovers the delights awaiting him with the Dancer, the Psychic, and his beautiful wife whose untapped desires change what it means to truly give yourself over to another.

ISBN: 978-1917317603 • $14.99

Available on Amazon.

www.samlfeldman.com

Available on Amazon, Barnes & Noble, and online bookstores.

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Printed Word Reviews The All-American Turkey Show: When Grand Forks, North Dakota, Was the Turkey Capital of the World, 1924-1942

The book meticulously details each year's show, highlighting key events, notable exhibitors, and significant achievements. From its uncertain beginnings to its widespread acclaim, the narrative captures the show's evolution. Iseminger also explores the social and cultural aspects, including the "Hen's Nest," banquets, and picnics, which fostered a strong sense of community among breeders.

Gordon L. Iseminger

Nonfiction. North Dakota State University Press. ISBN: 978-1946163554

The book argues that the All-American Turkey Show was crucial to the advancement of the turkey industry. It achieved this by promoting the improvement of turkey varieties, increasing production, and ultimately changing American diets. Iseminger supports this thesis with detailed descriptions of the shows, accounts of breeders' challenges, and the contributions of individuals like Wallace Jerome, founder of Jerome Foods.

From Grand Forks to Thanksgiving Tables: The Story of the All-American Turkey Show "The All-American Turkey Show: When Grand Forks, North Dakota, Was the Turkey Capital of the World, 1924-1942" by Gordon L. Iseminger offers a fascinating glimpse into a pivotal era in turkey history. Published by North Dakota State University Press, the book chronicles the rise and impact of this annual event, held in Grand Forks, North Dakota, which brought together breeders from across North America and shaped the future of the turkey industry.

The book concludes that the show's legacy continues to resonate within the modern turkey industry. It underscores the intricate connection between regional events and broader industry trends. "The All-American Turkey Show" is a must-read for anyone seeking to understand the historical forces that have shaped the Thanksgiving centerpiece we know today. It's a valuable contribution to agricultural history and a testament to the power of a regional event to influence a national industry.

Iseminger's accessible writing style makes this book appealing to a broad audience, including agricultural historians, poultry breeders, and anyone curious about regional history. Readers will discover the show's significance, the challenges faced by breeders, and its influence on both the local community and the wider world of turkey production.

Sales & Marketing Karmic Selling: Earning Business by Earning Trust by Stan Gwizdak Non-Obvious Thinking: How to See What Others Miss by Rohit Bhargava and Ben duPont Science Fiction 2028 Tomorrow Is The Day by L. R. O'Brien Born in Space: Unlocking Destiny by Jeremy Clift Icarus In Silico by Clarence & Fermin Of Friction by S.J. Lee The Handler's Gambit by Ingrid Moon The Quelling by C.L. Lauder Self-help: General

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Mind Training: The Science of Self-Empowerment by Ravinder Taylor and Eldon Taylor

Your Crystal Allies: The 12 Best Gems & Minerals for Making Money & Managing Resources, Book Three by Tracee Dunblazier

Abundance to Zen: Wisdom for a Fulfilling Life by Paul Hudon

Kitchen Therapy: How to Become a Conscious Cook by Charlotte Hastings

Self-help: Motivational Take a Shot at Happiness: How to Write, Direct & Produce the Life You Want by Maria Baltazzi

Sexuality EXODAI - A Shockingly Honest Memoir of Love, Obsession and Torture by Elizabeth Hendrick

Career Purpose: When Work Isn't Working for You by Gina Covarrubias

Short Stories

The Good Daughter Syndrome: Help for Empathic Daughters of Narcissistic, Borderline, or Difficult Mothers Trapped in the Role of the Good Daughter by Katherine Fabrizio

Told Ya! Stories by Peta-Gaye Nash Little Fortified Stories by Barbara Black

Self-help: Spiritual

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Educational Disobedience: A Mom Who Became A Movement by Dr. Annise Mabry The Story of Upfront Carbon: How a Life of Just Enough Offers a Way Out of the Climate Crisis by Lloyd Alter Specialty Books The Place Economy, Vol. 3 by Andrew Hoyne Spirituality

Misfits by Mark Jonathan Harris Social Media

Sports

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Social/Political Change:

Healing Whispers From Spirit Guides: Bridging the Gap Between Life and the Afterlife with a Death Doula's Wisdom

by Helen Gretchen Jones

Love the Sinner by Mo Moshaty

Unpacking the Attic by Ann M. Mracek

The Adventures of Sherrie and Chubbie Teen Life Series Social Media by Dr. Sherrie Poitier-Liscombe

What Kobe Left Behind: The Playbook from an Extraordinary Life by Eli Ihej Chin Down Eyes Up: Simple not Easy, Mastering the Obvious by Kris Wilder & Lawrence Kane

The Adventures of Sherrie and Chubbie Teen Life Series Depression #2 by Dr. Sherrie Poitier-Liscombe and Brittany Poitier Thriller

Visionary Fiction

Women’s Issues

The Monarchs by Mark Sabbas

Tea and Toil at The Woman’s Club by Bainy Cyrus

Of the Noble and Great Ones

by H.D. Logic

Saving Myles by Carl Vonderau A Change in Destiny, Dark Choices by Janet K. Shawgo

The Last Orphan Escape by Jeffrey Lowder

The Heroine's Labyrinth: Archetypal Designs in Heroine-Led Fiction by Douglas A. Burton

Draw A Hard Line by Micheal E. Jimerson

Blue Wild Indigo by James Jennings

The Author's Walk by Judith Briles

The Favor by Steve Badman

Guidance to Death by Daniel V. Meier Jr.

Otello's Oil: A Saga of Blood and Oil by D.W. Layton

Kent & Katcha by Larry and Rosemary Mild

Lone Tree Claim: On the Dakota Frontier by CK Van Dam

Unwritten: The Thought Leader's Guide to Not Overthinking Your Business Book by Emily Crookston

What Lies Buried by Leslie Kain

Spies Among Us by Mel Harrison

Steampunk Empire of Light 1: The Spirit of Innovation by Carcer Kane Suspense

Techno-thriller Enigma Forced by Breakfield and Burkey The Future Lies by John Be Lane Technology Responsible AI: Implement an Ethical Approach in your Organization by Olivia Gambelin Prompting Originality: The A.I. Handbook for Humans by Norty Cohen and Delaney Ehrhardt Teen Offsides! by C. D. Culper Burning Bright: Book Two in the Rise and Fall of Dani Truehart Series by Michele Kwasniewski Foresight by Craig Ford

Lynched: Mob Murders on the Northern Great Plains, 18821931 by Doreen Chaky and Adrienne Stepanek

The Killer Who Lost His Mind

by Matthew A Knorpp

A Sometimes Paradise: Reflections on Life in a Wyoming Ranch Family by Mark E. Miller

Travel Exploring Wine Regions Mexico by Michael C. Higgins, PhD

Women's Fiction: Elizabeth's Mountain by Lucille Guarino

Higher Love: A Psychedelic Travel Memoir of Heartbreak and Healing by Anne Kiehl Friedman

Debriefing Darly: Coming of Age at Any Age by Amy Virginia Evans

Immersion: A Linguist's Memoir by Linda Murphy Marshall

Family Ties Family Lies by Jacqueline Boulden

The Travelling Ape: What Travelling (Nearly) Everywhere Taught Me about Humanity, Geopolitics, and Happiness by Michael Mackay Richards

The Cicada Spring: A Potomac Shores Novel by Carolyn McBride The Fallen Woman's Daughter

by Michelle Cox

True Crime THE FIGHT FOR JUSTICE Lee Kreindler and Lockerbie

by Ruth Kreindler and Chris Angermann

Women's Health Not Pausing: Redefining Women After Forty by Ariela Nerubay Turndorf

Young Adult Fiction Through the Haze by Kelly Kieran Sampson Down The Well by Veronica King Journey Through the Forest of Thimbleton by R.J. Smith Lost on the Edge of Eternity by Jonathan Floyd Shades of a Warrior by Robert Saxton The Enterprize by Melissa George The Goatman by Wallace Martin The Lost Portal (Mirror Realm Series Book II) by Lenore Borja Young Adult Nonfiction You're Not Alone: The Conservative Woman's Guide to College by Karin A. Lips Mission Possible: How to Graduate From College DebtFree College Debt-Free by Dr. Juan Phillip Chisholm

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Needle & Thread by David Pinckney

Western Fiction

Writing and Publishing

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T.V. Holiday's Cataclysm: Legend of The Iron Warrior Vol. 2

French Lessons, One Woman’s Tale of Sex, Wine and House Renovation in La Belle France

T.V. Holiday

Roberta Samuels

Fantasy/Sci-fi/Adventure/Horror. Independently published. ISBN: 979-8992729405

Romance/Womens Fiction. Red Penguin Books. ISBN: 978-1637775738

"T.V. Holiday's Cataclysm: Legend of The Iron Warrior Vol. 2" is a dark fantasy novel, Readers find themselves in a gritty, dystopian world full of demonic forces and desperate heroes. The war-torn city of Crazy Vault and the ominous Carnage Coast provide a vivid backdrop for a story that crackles with supernatural energy. Leslie Martinez's transformation into the Crimson Queen adds a layer of complexity, while Travis Holiday, the Iron Warrior, grapples with his own inner demons as he fights to protect the innocent. The developing relationship between Travis and Crystal, a survivor he rescues, provides a touch of humanity amidst the chaos. Detective Rebecca Walters' investigation into the supernatural elements of the "Night Night" case further the plot, weaving together multiple threads of intrigue.

A charming tale of reinvention unfolds in "French Lessons," resonating with anyone who has dreamed of a fresh start. Set against the idyllic backdrop of the French countryside in the early 2000s, this story follows Barbara Waldheim, a 55-year-old woman seeking solace and self-discovery after a painful divorce. Samuels immerses the reader in Barbara's journey as she buys an 18th century farmhouse in the quaint village of Cayrièch.

The book’s strength lies in its exploration of Barbara’s personal growth. From the initial disappointment of realizing her dream house requires more work than anticipated, to navigating the intricacies of French bureaucracy and local customs, Barbara’s resilience shines through. Her interactions with the villagers, particularly her neighbors Pierre and Clothilde, are heartwarming and provide a rich tapestry of rural French life. The author weaves in flashbacks to Barbara’s past, including her student days in Paris and a memorable transatlantic crossing on the France, flagship of the French Line, adding depth and context to her present circumstances…

The narrative balances action-packed sequences with moments of character development, exploring themes of loyalty, transformation, and the eternal struggle between good and evil. The intricate plot keeps readers guessing, culminating in a climactic battle that tests the limits of the heroes' strength and resolve. While the dark and often violent nature of the story may not appeal to all readers, those who enjoy supernatural thrillers with complex characters and intricate plots will find themselves captivated by "T.V. Holiday's Cataclysm: Legend of The Iron Warrior Vol. 2." The satisfying, though hard-earned, resolution offers a glimmer of hope amidst the darkness, leaving the city poised for a difficult but necessary rebuilding process. This is a solid entry in the dark fantasy genre, sure to please fans.

…"French Lessons" is a read for those who enjoy stories about personal growth, mid-life reinvention, the charm of the French language, and the allure of rural France. It's a tale of resilience, friendship, and the courage to embrace new beginnings, reminding us that it's never too late to find happiness and fulfillment.

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Printed Word Reviews

Printed Word Reviews 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 mineinfested 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.

Red Lines

James Bultema Military Thriller. P.D. Publishing. ISBN: 979-8988075158 Red Lines: A New Military Thriller Explores the Gray Areas of Conflict

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.

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 fastpaced, action-packed style, explores the complexities of modern warfare, examining themes of patriotism, resilience, and the sacrifices demanded by national security.

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.

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. www.PrintedWordReviews.com

"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.

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SHRED! Running and Being Kevin Carollo

Personal Growth/Spiritual. North Dakota State University Press.

ISBN: 978-1946163530 Finding Pace in a Pandemic is a deeply personal exploration of running, writing, and navigating modern life, particularly during the COVID-19 pandemic. Carollo invites readers into his daily routines, from caring for his cat Gracie to battling anxiety dreams, revealing how running provides solace and a way to process the world’s complexities. The pandemic’s impact is palpable, as Carollo describes the challenges of maintaining a running streak during lockdown and the importance of movement for mental well-being. He interweaves poignant tributes to his mother and reflections on loss, including his father’s passing and his partner’s mother’s dementia diagnosis, demonstrating how these personal struggles connect to broader themes of running and being. Descriptions of his runs immerse the reader in the physical and mental experience, while poetic reflections capture the essence of his journey. He also delves into social and political issues like climate change and economic inequality, revealing how they intersect with his personal life. Through past running experiences and contemplations of the future, the author emphasizes the cyclical nature of life’s journey and the importance of movement, connection, and self-discovery. Ultimately, the book argues that running and writing are essential practices for finding purpose and navigating life’s inherent challenges. It offers a perspective on the interconnectedness of life, loss, and the pursuit of meaning, making it a read for anyone interested in personal narratives exploring physical activity, mental health, and contemporary issues.

www.printedwordreviews.com/bookreviews/9781946163530 Printed Word Reviews amnesiac journalist fighting for her child; Nevaeh, the innocent caught in the crossfire; Chris DeMarco, the journalist seeking the truth; Cardinal Roselli, the Machiavellian figure driven by ambition; and Alessandro, the loyal official aiding Sophia's quest.

Vatican Daughter Joni Marie Iraci

Historical Thriller. Collective Ink/Round fire Books. ISBN: 978-1803417783

The evocative settings of the Vatican, Venice, and Rome become characters in themselves, reflecting the emotional journeys of the protagonists. The Vatican, the epicenter of the Catholic Church, serves as the stage for political maneuvering and spiritual conflict. Venice, a city of masks and hidden identities, mirrors Sophia's own struggle to rediscover her past. And Rome, the eternal city, becomes the focal point where all the narratives collide.

Set against the breathtaking backdrop of Italy, “Vatican Daughter” by Joni Marie Iraci weaves together history, reality, and speculative storytelling, offering readers a complex and character-driven exploration of faith, power, and intrigue. Spanning twelve years and unfolding across iconic locations like the Vatican, Venice, and Rome, the story delves into the lives of individuals changed by secrets and hidden agendas within the Catholic Church.

"Vatican Daughter" is a captivating blend of historical context, well-developed characters, and suspense. It's a story about the strength of the human spirit and the search for truth, offering a satisfying resolution while leaving the reader to ponder the complexities of faith, redemption, and hope.

A revelation involving a future pope Joseph Morris sets the stage. At the heart of the story are compelling characters: Joseph Morris, the pope burdened by a secret; Sophia, the

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Peanut Butter and Jelly Sandwiches from Outer Space!

I. S. Noah

Young Adult. Fulton Books.. ISBN: 979-8887316918 Set in the summer of 2019, the story follows Violet Wilson, a high school student determined to revive her school's journalism club. Her plans take a bizarre turn when the kids hike leads to a series of strange events, from the discovery of a crashed flying saucer to Willys’ eating what appears to be an alien sandwich…The book’s quirky characters, including the fact-seeking Violet, her supportive best friend Pamela, and the accidentally-snacking Willys. The Goobexes, as alien beings shaped like sandwiches, add a unique and humorous touch. Beyond the laughs, the story explores important themes of critical thinking, cooperation, and the importance of peace. The temporal anomaly that resolves the central conflict adds a clever twist.

While the plot is lighthearted, it doesn't shy away from subtle social commentary, particularly regarding the importance of questioning and understanding the world. The book's plot, combined with its relatable high school setting and engaging characters, makes it a fun and thought-provoking read. "Peanut Butter and Jelly Sandwiches From Outer Space!" is a reminder that even the most ordinary events can lead to extraordinary adventures, and that even a peanut butter and jelly sandwich can play a role in saving the world.

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Print and audiobook can be submitted by: • Independent publishers • University presses • Hybrid publishers • Association presses • Self-published authors If you are a big five publishing houses, any publiser or author may submit to both competitions, IndependentPressAward.com, which has a separate committee and entry fee.

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Choose which categories, https://www.independentpressaward/categories, to enter each book into. You may enter a book into as many categories as you’d like. The fee for the first category is $125. Any additional book catefgories for that same book is $75 per category.

• SINGLE BOOK, MULTIPLE CATEGORIES: One who enters “Book One” in Children’s Educational and Book Cover Design Childrens category, the en entry fee is $125 + $75 = $20.

LTIPLE BOOKS: One who enters “Book One” in Children’s Educational and Book Cover Design Children’s category, the entry fee is $125 + $75 = $200, and “Book Two” in Mystery and New Fiction (first-time published), the entry fee is $125 + $75 = $200, so $200 + $200 = $400 in total book entry fees.

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Printed Word Reviews Crystal Lake Gifts

Vatican Daughter

Romance. Self Published. ISBN: 979-8985311426

LGBTQ Fiction. Self Published. ISBN: 979-8339914860

Susan W. Green

Kathleen Brehony

Nestled in the picturesque town of Lewisville, Maine, “Crystal Lake Gifts” is a heartwarming story, brimming with friendship, love, and the unwavering spirit of perseverance. This contemporary and engaging novel is a perfect escape for readers who cherish tales of personal growth, the strength of community, and the sweet surprises of romance. The story centers around Trish Cavanaugh, a determined entrepreneur on the cusp of a major milestone: the expansion of her beloved gift shop, Crystal Lake Gifts.

Set against the breathtaking backdrop of Italy, “Vatican Daughter” by Joni Marie Iraci weaves together history, reality, and speculative storytelling, offering readers a complex and character-driven exploration of faith, power, and intrigue. Spanning twelve years and unfolding across iconic locations like the Vatican, Venice, and Rome, the story delves into the lives of individuals changed by secrets and hidden agendas within the Catholic Church.

A revelation involving a future pope Joseph Morris sets the stage. At the heart of the story are compelling characters: Joseph Morris, the pope burdened by a secret; Sophia, the amnesiac journalist fighting for her child; Nevaeh, the innocent caught in the crossfire; Chris DeMarco, the journalist seeking the truth; Cardinal Roselli, the Machiavellian figure driven by ambition; and Alessandro, the loyal official aiding Sophia's quest.

Trish's dream of expansion is fueled by her challenging childhood and the enduring encouragement of her late grandmother. As she navigates the financial and emotional rollercoaster of this ambitious project, she finds unwavering support in her two best friends, Cassidy and Amanda, both successful business owners in their own right. Their camaraderie provides a strong foundation for Trish as she faces the challenges ahead.

The narrative takes an interesting turn when a break-in at Crystal Lake Gifts throws Chief Derrick Williams, Trish's former high school crush, back into her life. The incident not only adds a layer of suspense but also reignites a spark of romantic tension. As Trish prepares for the grand reopening, she's confronted with a series of obstacles: financial strain, frustrating insurance issues, and a string of perplexing false alarms at her store. Her relationship with Derrick deepens as they work together to solve the mystery behind the break-in and the strange malfunctions plaguing the town's parking meters, which are impacting all the local businesses.

The evocative settings of the Vatican, Venice, and Rome become characters in themselves, reflecting the emotional journeys of the protagonists. The Vatican, the epicenter of the Catholic Church, serves as the stage for political maneuvering and spiritual conflict. Venice, a city of masks and hidden identities, mirrors Sophia's own struggle to rediscover her past. And Rome, the eternal city, becomes the focal point where all the narratives collide.

"Vatican Daughter" is a captivating blend of historical context, well-developed characters, and suspense. It's a story about the strength of the human spirit and the search for truth, offering a satisfying resolution while leaving the reader to ponder the complexities of faith, redemption, and hope.

Adding another layer of warmth to the story is the subplot involving Sarah, Trish's friend and the head of the local artisans' cooperative. Sarah's own romantic journey with Tom, an electrician, adds a touch of lightheartedness and explores the complexities of relationships, including misunderstandings and emotional turmoil.

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The story reaches its peak with the successful resolution of the parking meter problem, the unraveling of the mystery behind the false alarms at Trish's store, and the blossoming romance between Trish and Derrick. The climax culminates in a heartfelt proposal, setting the stage for a joyous conclusion.

Rescuing Ethan and Gabe: The Power of One Stable Committed Relationship Erik H. Marks

The book concludes with a series of heartwarming events: the arrival of Cassidy's baby daughter and the christening ceremony, a symbolic celebration of new beginnings and the strengthening of community bonds.

These moments underscore the importance of connection and the joy of shared experiences within a close-knit town.

Fiction. Burnstown Publishing House. ISBN: 978-1772574296 Marks' novel explores themes of grief, mentorship, and trauma's impact. Spanning two decades, the reader follows Scott, a camp director in 2000, who mentors troubled camper Ethan, learning of his past abuse.

Years later, working with his local child protection services, Scott connects with neglected 12-year-old Gabriel, echoing his Ethan experience. The story shifts between these relationships, highlighting Scott's dedication and its emotional toll. Ethan's overdose in 2020 fuels Scott's determination to rescue Gabriel, whom he finds in dire circumstances. Despite the deterioration in Scott's own physical and mental health, his influence endures. In the end, Gabriel and the narrator embark on a journey, honoring Scott's legacy of compassion and commitment. The novel poignantly examines the power of human connection and the lasting impact of one stable committed relationship.

"Crystal Lake Gifts" explores several powerful themes. Trish's journey embodies resilience, showcasing her transformation from a struggling business owner to a successful entrepreneur. The evolving relationship between Trish and Derrick highlights the power of love and second chances.

And the unwavering support of Cassidy and Amanda emphasizes the importance of true friendship.

Trish's story is a testament to the strength of the human spirit, the power of love, and the unwavering support of a strong community. Set against the charming backdrop of Lewisville, Maine, with its central locations of Main Street and the Crystal Lake Inn, this novel offers a delightful and engaging read for anyone who enjoys stories that celebrate personal growth, the warmth of community, and the magic of romance.

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