YA Fiction Set in Eastern European Village

I am Cecilia by author Zara Miller is a debut coming-of-age novel that tells the complicated, often hilarious, story of a teenage girl who craves something more from life than what she was born into. Readers are sure to resonate with the young, highly intelligent protagonist and feel compelled to cheer her on during every step of her journey. As Miller’s very first book, I am Cecilia was inspired heavily by Miller’s own experiences growing up. Like Cecilia, Miller is deeply connected to her ... [Read More...]

Compelling Psychological Fiction & Nonfiction by B.C. Harris

Artist, author, and part-time professor B.C. Harris offers exciting, thought-provoking content for fans of both fiction and nonfiction. If you love suspense, adventure, and pondering deep questions, Harris’s books will pull you in and leave you hanging on every word until the very last page. The Darkness This gripping psychological thriller follows Sarah Sulmona, a woman who has been plagued by bad luck. In the span of 2 years, Sarah broke up with 2 lovers, suffered a miscarriage, and lost he... [Read More...]

Getting Old and Finding Love

If you’re searching for a contemporary tale told from a fresh perspective, author Curtis Maynard recently published a novel that’s bound to intrigue both athletes and those of retirement age who struggle with the idea of falling in love again. Readers will be compelled to reflect on their own lives as they read about the achievements, personal struggles, losses, love interests of the aging athlete depicted in this book. In Love and Water Maynard’s novel, In Love and Water, begins by intro... [Read More...]

What Never Was, Can Never Be:  Poetry

The desire to share one’s own story and personal journey through life is something that most people can relate to. Describing the lessons you’ve learned, accomplishments you’ve achieved, and telling funny anecdotes about your childhood can help encourage and uplift others who come across your story. Autobiographies are nothing new, but author and poet Ronnell Beaty tells the story of his own life in a way that feels like you are glimpsing through a window at moments in his life. Rather tha... [Read More...]

Power The Super Dog: An Empowering Children’s Book

Children can and should be educated about people who experience the world in different ways, such as individuals with disabilities. Inclusion and acceptance of others are key mindsets that can be established at a young age, and the multi-talented author Queen Tizo has created a book for parents hoping to instill these values in their children. While this title is geared towards kids between the ages of 3 and 7, people of all ages are sure to smile at the adorable tale of Power the Super Dog. In... [Read More...]

Learn How to Recognize and Overcome Gaslighting

Feeling like you are being manipulated in one of your relationships? Maybe it’s gotten so bad it feels like abuse? It could be gaslighting. What is gaslighting? Gaslighting is form of manipulation where one person distorts facts and memories to invalidate another person’s sense of self. It often leaves you second-guessing yourself or apologizing when you’re not at fault. A gaslighter uses subtle manipulation to make you question whether or not they really did or said something you ... [Read More...]

Exploring the Dark YA Fantasy Novels of Ralph Burton

For thrilling fantasies with elements of horror all wrapped up into relatable coming-of-age stories, look no further than the novels of Ralph Burton. Writing specifically with a young adult audience in mind, Burton excels at weaving compelling narratives with characters that readers will find themselves cheering for. Teens will want to collect each of these unique tales for the diverse settings that range from the hidden depths of the ocean to idyllic country villages, but where nothing is as si... [Read More...]

Begging to Be Loved: Shannon Renee’s Story

Everyone can relate to the feeling of clamoring for other people’s attention and affection. From a young age, people strive to make friends, gain the approval of others, and impress those they admire the most. Author Shannon Renee perfectly illustrates the struggle that young girls experience as they grow up in her brand-new memoir, Little Pink Roses, which includes poignant details from Renee’s own life. Cycle of Life This autobiography begins when author Shannon Renee is just starting out... [Read More...]

The Wonderfully Grotesque Horror of S. Alessandro Martinez

Imagine that you’re preparing for a weekend getaway with your best friends. You’re excited for a trip to a cozy lakefront cabin, where you can feel free to unwind and enjoy the company of your friends in the secluded wilderness. When you arrive at your destination, however, there seems to be something eerie and offputting about the place. You can’t seem to figure out what’s making you so uneasy, until it’s far too late to do anything about it. You’re soon forced to watch in silent he... [Read More...]

5 Book Series for 5th Graders

Looking for new books for your fifth grader? The best way to foster their love of reading is to find them engaging,  compelling books.  One great place to start is by looking for series with relatable characters and action-packed sequences. Check out these 5 outstanding book series that your 5th grader is sure to enjoy over and over again: Harry Potter You simply can’t go wrong with J.K. Rowling’s iconic series starring the famous “Boy Who Lived” and his magical wizarding adventures a... [Read More...]