The movie adaptation of the classic coming of age novel will be release April 28, 2023. Photo: Amazon
Judy Blume spent her childhood in Elizabeth, NJ, making up stories inside her head. She has spent her adult years in many places, doing the same thing, only now she writes her stories down on paper. Adults as well as children will recognize such Blume titles as: “Are You There God? It’s Me, Margaret,” “Superfudge,” “Blubber,” “Just As Long As We’re Together,” and “Forever.” Judy received a B.S. in education from New York University in 1961, which named her a Distinguished Alumna in 1996, the same year that American Library Association honored her with the Margaret A. Edwards Award for Lifetime Achievement. Her books have sold more than 75 million copies and her work has been translated into twenty-six languages. The beloved coming of age novel “Are You There God? It’s Me, Margaret” has been adapted into a major movie and will be released in theaters April 28, 2023. (Amazon, 2023)
“Are You There God? It’s Me, Margaret” – Margaret Simon, almost twelve, has just moved from New York City to the suburbs, and she is anxious to fit in with her new friends. When she is asked to join a secret club she jumps at the chance. But when the girls start talking about boys, bras, and getting their first periods, Margaret starts to wonder if she is normal. There are some things about growing up that are hard for her to talk about, even with her friends. Lucky for Margaret, she has got someone else to confide in, someone who always listens.
‘Identicality’ is the new technothriller by Jay L. Koppelman. Courtesy photo, used with permission.
How do genetic engineering, artificial intelligence and emerging technologies in computer science, medicine and physics engage with ethics and morality? These are themes in “Identicality,” the debut novel from San Francisco Bay Area resident Jay Koppelman. It is a riveting and thought-provoking science fiction novel that will keep you thinking and guessing until the very end – and then beyond. In today’s world, science is quickly catching up to fiction. Will it have gone too far when it comes to replicating human beings? Check out the reviews for this amazing romp of a techno thriller and see what the excitement is all about.
As Adam Braudy, a brilliant inventor-entrepreneur, lies dying following an assassination attempt, he asks Charlie Wood, his lifelong friend, to use Adam’s latest invention—a human replicator to create Adam’s replicant. Despite deep ethical reservations, Charlie sets them aside, and at the risk of spawning a Frankenstein monster, creates Adam’s replicant who then steps into Adam’s role as husband, father, inventor and industrialist, having no reason to doubt that he is the real Adam Braudy. But then the first Adam miraculously survives. How far will Adam go to get his life back?
“Identicality is exhilarating!”
It’s a thriller that takes you to a place where “I is another”, and “identical is actually distinct.” I can’t wait to see the movie. It’ll put The Matrix to shame.
—Patrick Feigelson, author
“Thoroughly human characters grappling wit extraordinary dilemmas”
The technological wonders in Identicality are only just out of our reach, but they have profound implications for our sense of our selves. It’s a sense we feel as we witness thoroughly human characters grappling with the extraordinary dilemmas that animate this thrilling and thoughtful novel.
What a fun combination of page-turning action and real ethical questions about life. Human replication is such a creepy thing to think about. This is a book that will stick in my mind for a long time to come.
In this unique, gripping novel, fleshed out characters live out their lifelong friendships full of mutual dependence, competition, shared ambition, and love. All against a backstory that includes exciting dramatic scenes of chase, explosion, terror, and medical science fiction. This should appeal to readers seeking science fiction that unfolds medical and ethical fictional situations with real human impact. A unique and well written offering. Highly recommended!
‘Leaving: How I Set Myself Free from an Abusive Marriage’ is Kanchan Bhaskar new memoir. Photo: Amazon
Kanchan Bhaskar was born and brought up in New Delhi, India. She holds a master’s degree in social work from Delhi University and a postgraduate certificate in personnel management and industrial relations. She moved to the US in 2000. She works in the corporate world, mentoring, counselling, and coaching employees at all levels in the industry. She is also now a certified advocate for domestic violence victims in the state of Illinois and is a volunteer speaker, mentor, and coach for victims and survivors. Her new book “Leaving: How I Set Myself Free from an Abusive Marriage” is an inspiring memoir of a woman who reclaims her power and finds the strength to leave an abusive relationship. (Kanchan Bhaskar, 2023)
“Leaving: How I Set Myself Free from an Abusive Marriage” – Raised by two loving parents in New Delhi, India, Kanchan Bhaskar has always been taught that marriage means companionship, tenderness, and mutual respect—so when she enters into an arranged marriage, this is the kind of partnership she anticipates with her new, seemingly wonderful, husband. The story is told in chronological order and begins in 1980-1981 when, as a new wife, Kanchan is starting a new life with her new husband and his family, all strangers to her, but is still naively hopeful that it will be full of wonder and romance. She quickly discovers that his warmth is deceptive—that the man beneath the bright, charming façade is actually a narcissistic, alcoholic, and violent man. Kanchan pleads with her husband to seek help for his issues, but he refuses. Trapped in a nightmare, and now with children to protect, she tries numerous times to leave him but Indian law is not on her side. It is not until many years later, when the family of five moves from India to the United States, that Kanchan is presented with a real opportunity to leave him—and she takes it. It is divided into eighteen chapters, including A Love Story, My Safe Haven, and Coming Together.
Kanchan Bhaskar’s memoir is not just about domestic abuse. In the Preface, she writes that “the story does not stop with gaining my freedom but describes my continuing journey on the path of spirituality.” The abuse she endured is just one part of her story; the whole is more about her personal journey to self reliance. She perseveres against all odds and it does not define who she is now. The abuse details, while disturbing, are brief and not too graphic, just enough to shed light on her tragic experiences. It is always interesting to learn about other cultures, in this case, Indian culture, especially the process of selecting a partner in an arranged marriage. This proves the universality of the human condition regardless of race or culture. The language is easy to understand and often poetic “I felt like a free bird, seeing myself as a white swan gliding high in the infinite sky – who had no boundaries, no limits, no shackles, no fear, no apprehensions…” With a story that flows easily through the pages, readers are witness to her journey from abuse to spiritual awakening. “Leaving: How I Set Myself Free from an Abusive Marriage” is an empowering story of a woman who even during her bleakest moments, found the strength to move on. It is recommended for readers who enjoy inspirational memoirs by strong women.
“I wish there was one formula for all of us, but there isn’t. The formula that worked for me and liberated me was essentially powered by my three strong beliefs, my tools, and my mantras. Belief in self. Belief in Universe. Belief in spirituality.”
*The author received a copy of this book for an honest review. The views and opinions expressed here belong solely to her.
“Accepting Truth isn’t always easy, but it’s always necessary. Without hardship, without going through the Trials and Tribulations, strength cannot be gained. No matter how hard and hopeless you feel at times, endure a little longer and keep fighting on. Nothing great comes from taking the easy way out. Nothing permanent that is.”
2 Corinthians 4:16-18 Seeing the Invisible: 16 Therefore we do not lose heart. Even though our outward man is perishing, yet the inward man is being renewed day by day. 17 For our light affliction, which is but for a moment, is working for us a far more exceeding and eternal weight of glory, 18 while we do not look at the things which are seen, but at the things which are not seen. For the things which are seen are temporary, but the things which are not seen are eternal.
“God never promised an easy life on earth, but he did promise the temporary battle would be worth it in the end.”
Author Mike Black. Courtesy photo, used with permission.
‘Gray: Assorted Poems’ by Conor Noll. Photo: Amazon
Conor Nollis a poet with a lifetime love of the written word and has spent most of it reading and writing. He has had his share of hardships including serving in the military, being a shut-in, and serving time in prison. “Gray” is his first published book of poems with plans for more to come. He currently lives in his Pennsylvania hometown. (Conor Noll, 2023)
“Gray”– This book is a short collection of original poems; a worthy assortment of thoughts and feelings put into words and onto paper. There are topics of love, loss, fond feelings of comfortable places, and also of sadness. Enjoy the poems within.
Poetry can have different meanings for different people. Some enjoy expressing their thoughts while for others, it can be therapeutic. In “Gray,” Conor Noll expresses all types of emotions, from hopelessness to friendship and love. The topics range from the drudgery of daily life to the majesty of the night sky, including the stars and planets. This may be a small book, but it serves as a reminder of the universality of the human condition; that if you are feeling down, you are not the only one and there is always hope right around the corner. Most, if not all the poems are relatable, like Unease, for those of us who have battled with anxiety and The Magical Brew, a humorous ode to coffee and its many benefits. Running reminds us that though it may be hard, sometimes you have to move on from what is familiar. So if you are looking for honest, heart felt poetry to remind you of your humanity, give this one a try. It is an easy read without complicated language and can be read in one sitting, which makes it the perfect book to take to the beach this summer.
“Yet it’s the bad that make, The good all the better, I will not be fake, I refused to be fettered, And I’ll give as much as I can take.” – To Be Human
‘Airbnb 99 Essential Message Templates’ is a resource guide for readers in the Airbnb business. Courtesy photo, used with permission.
Are you an Airbnb host who wants to offer exceptional guest experiences and stand out among millions of listings on the platform? If so, “Airbnb 99+ Essential Message Templates” by Message Magic is the solution. (Message Magic, 2023)
Not only will you receive comprehensive guidance and practical advice for improving your communication skills and enhancing the guest experience, but you will also receive an exclusive offer included in the book. This offer is a $50 coupon to optimize your Airbnb listing with AirbnbSEO.com. This valuable bonus will help you further enhance your Airbnb presence and attract more bookings, making it an even more valuable investment for any serious host.
Our pre-written message templates allow you to save time and effort while ensuring consistency, professionalism, accuracy, and personalization for your guests. You can even use them for direct bookings via personal websites and social networks.
Effective communication is crucial for building trust, clarifying expectations, handling issues, and earning positive reviews. With “Airbnb 99+ Essential Message Templates,” you can provide your guests with a memorable and hassle-free experience while maximizing your profits. Our customizable message templates have been proven to increase bookings, boost guest satisfaction, handle any complaints professionally, and help you stand out from the competition.
Do not let your listing get lost in the sea of Airbnb properties. Take your communication with guests to the next level with our book and reap numerous benefits, including streamlining your messaging process, and ensuring consistency, professionalism, accuracy, and personalization. Increase your bookings, boost guest satisfaction, handle any complaints professionally, and stand out from the competition.
Order now and experience the results for yourself!
‘Iowa Trouble’ is a politics centered memoir by Tyler Granger, a lifetime Iowan who was heavily involved in the area’s politics. Photo: Tyler Granger, used with permission.
Tyler Granger is a lifelong Iowan who wanted to share his life’s journey and began writing his memoir in 2020 for his infant daughter so she would have a book about her father and her family’s history. He shares his journey in this memoir, which includes stories ranging from football to Warped Tour to working for the Obama campaign. He has a degree in political science from Northwestern College and has worked on a variety of political campaigns and non-profits across Iowa. “Iowa Trouble” is a memoir of political violence across Iowa mixed with a variety of horror stories from punk sub-culture to Iowa gangsters to the politics of the Iowa Caucus. (Tyler Granger, 2023)
“Iowa Trouble”– while it is not for everyone, it includes something for everyone. It is a coming of age/gangster novel/political thriller/horror memoir with the target audience being punks and political junkies.
* Disclaimer: This self-published memoir includes stories of murder, rape, drugs and alcohol, political corruption, and other violent crimes that could be potentially emotionally distressing for some readers.
Author Tyler Granger. Courtesy photo, used with permission.
‘How To Employ Your Own Boss: The Ultimate Guide on How To Move From Being An Employee To Employer’ is Samuel Shy’s book about entrepreneurship. Photo: Amazon
From time to time, everyone at one point or another has fantasized about being their own boss. Regardless of what type of job you have, if you work for someone else, it can be exhausting and soul crushing because jobs most require getting up early, long commutes to work, and working at least eight hours a day, which means being cooped up in an office all day and missing out on life’s important events and spending time with loved ones; not to mention stressful office politics and overly critical managers who often demean more than praise employees. When it comes down to it, do you really know what it means to be your own boss? In his new book “How To Employ Your Own Boss: The Ultimate Guide on How To Move From Being An Employee To Employer,” Samuel Shy writes about this important topic that is frequently in every worker’s mind after a long stressful day at work. (Samuel Shy, 2023)
“How To Employ Your Own Boss: The Ultimate Guide on How To Move From Being An Employee To Employer” – is available only as an e-book and is only 62 pages long but it features the basic concepts you should know when considering being self-employed. This includes the definition of an employee, the types of employees, and most importantly, what is self employment. He lists the advantages, disadvantages, and examples of self employment and how to move from being an employee to being self employed. Once you decide that this is the right move for you, he also explains how to start and run your own business along with the advantages and disadvantages of being your own boss which serves as a reality check. He also includes the characteristics that define someone who can be their own boss: could this be you? Are you ready to take the plunge?
This guide dealing with entrepreneurship, business, and economics is available through Lulu.
‘The Vanished’ is the latest book in the Robert Spires series by Simon Rosser. Photo: Amazon
“The Vanished” may be book 9 of the Robert Spires series but it is an excellent read as a stand alone novel. It begins with Vanessa and Stefan hiking in the Great Smoky Mountains as what begins as a hiking adventure ends with Stefan’s disappearance. This event is just the latest in similar disappearances that have been occurring in the area so the UK’s Global Environmental Command, GLENCOM for short, dispatches Robert and Agent Belinda Caruso to investigate since it is thought that they might have some environmental connections.
Along with the disappearances, for decades now, there have been cases of cattle and other livestock mutilations in neighboring farms that look as if they were done by scalpel or laser technology. No tracks or other evidence as to who might be responsible for the unexplained deaths has ever been found but there might be reason to believe that there might be an extraterrestrial link since there have also been instances of unusual lights in the night sky. Robert Spire and Agent Belinda Caruso team up with Spire’s old friend, ex-U.S. Marine Travis Dexter and the deeper they dig, the clearer it becomes that the U.S Military might be involved.
While the topics of farm animal mutilations, missing hikers, and mysterious lights in the sky are common occurrences in the real world, the author brilliantly combines them to create an intriguing yet unnerving science fiction adventure. Far from giving clear explanations for them, he does give a possible, though chilling, reason for the disappearances that could very well happen and leaves the way open for expanding on this story, including which mysterious government agency may be involved. It also serves as a warning to humanity without coming off as preachy or condescending.
The characters are believable and relatable, but giving the assassins for hire brothers the stereotypical ‘Deliverance-like’ characteristics makes them seem cartoonish at most. The language is easy to follow and understand and makes the story flow naturally. Overall, ‘The Vanished’ is a must-read and thrilling science fiction novel and is recommended for readers who enjoy science fiction, UFO/alien stories and appreciate speculative fiction.
‘Identicality’ is a suspenseful technothriller by Jay L. Koppelman. Photo: Jay L. Koppelman
Jay L. Koppelman, a San Francisco Bay Area resident, is retired from a career in real estate investment and finance. He currently serves as CFO of an educational therapy clinic and has been an active participant on various philanthropic boards. In his spare time, he chases his grandkids, enjoys golf, recreational flying, and reading about science and technology. “Identicality,” his debut novel, is a riveting and thought-provoking science fiction thriller that will keep you thinking and guessing until the very end – and beyond. (Jay L. Koppelman, 2023)
“Identicality” – As founding partner of a prestigious San Francisco law firm, Charlie Wood owes much of his success to business dealings with his life-long friend, the brilliant inventor-entrepreneur Adam Braudy. While Charlie is grateful to Adam, he cannot help envying Adam’s staggering wealth and fame and feels resentful every time Adam calls and expects him to drop everything to do his bidding. As Adam lies dying following an assassination attempt, he asks Charlie to aid him in fulfilling one last request: use his latest invention—a device capable of duplicating human life—to create an Adam replicant. Unable to deny his friend’s dying wish, Charlie sets aside his deep ethical reservations and, at the risk of spawning a Frankenstein monster, creates Adam’s replicant.
Everything seems to be going as planned as the new Adam takes on the first Adam’s role as husband, father, inventor and industrialist—firmly convinced he is the real Adam. But then the first Adam miraculously survives. How far will Adam go to get his life back?
SA Examiner 