The podcast turned sci-fi thriller comes to Video On Demand on January 12, 2024. Courtesy photo, used with permission.
Buffalo 8is thrilled to open their 2024 line up with the North American VOD release of First Time Caller, the feature adaptation of the fan-favorite podcast “The Earth Moves” from directors J.D. Brynn and Abe Goldfarb. Based on Gideon Media’s acclaimed podcast, First Time Caller is a darkly hilarious look at success, power, loneliness, and the apocalypse. First Time Caller debuts on Cable and Digital VOD on January 12, 2024, including Prime Video, Vudu, Vubiquity, Cox, and Comcast. (Justin Cook PR, 2023)
First Time Caller– Brent Ziff is an internet shock-jock at the top of his game. Fans and followers tune in from coast to coast to be insulted and enlightened by their favorite on-air provocateur. But on one very unusual night, Brent’s world is rocked by a long-time listener who calls in with a grave message.
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Abe Goldfarb and Brian Silliman reprise their roles from “The Earth Moves” as Brent and Leo, alongside vocal performances from Greg Proops, Ophira Eisenberg, and Ashlie Atkinson. Mac Rogers, who wrote the original podcast, adapted the script. Patrick Terry produced for Cinedata. Gerry Ohrstrom, Thomas Campbell Jackson and Lawrence Starr are executive producers, alongside Buffalo 8’s Matthew Helderman and Luke Taylor, Nikki Stier Justice and Grady Craig.
First Time Caller world premiered at the Seattle Film Festival and earned the Grand Jury Prize, along with awards for Best Actor (Goldfarb) and Best Director (Goldfarb and Brynn). The film went on to win Best Feature Film at the Brooklyn SciFi Film Festival and was the headliner as the Opening Night Feature at the Bowery Film Festival. On the festival circuit, Film Threat hailed First Time Caller as “extremely inventive, quite a ride!”
‘Whose Birthday Is It?: What Do You Really Know About The Day You Were Born?’ is the new book by Dennis Lee Edwards. Photo: Dennis Lee Edwards, used with permission.
Even though most people celebrate their birthday every year, how many of us stop and think about what really happened on our BIRTH DAY. Today’s new book release focuses on the human experience surrounding motherhood, loss, and family relationships. These topics are explored through one son’s experience after losing his mother. If this has gotten your attention and would like to read more about the subject, pick up your copy of “Whose Birthday Is It?: What Do You Really Know About The Day You Were Born?” by Dennis Lee Edwards. It is available on Amazon.
Dennis Lee Edwards has been enhancing and saving lives as an Organ Procurement Coordinator serving the people of Maryland for the past 25 years. He has also founded, owned, or maintained partnership stakes in a variety of companies including Unlimited Tanning & Fitness, Proxy Entertainment, Prohealthsol Community Foundation, and more. His new book “Whose Birthday Is It?: What Do You Really Know About The Day You Were Born?” is a beautiful and insightful work of fiction that explores the universal themes of love, loss, and the human experience in a fresh and captivating way. (Dennis Lee Edwards, 2023)
“Whose Birthday Is It?: What Do You Really Know About The Day You Were Born?”– The author of this book captures the reader’s attention from the start by weaving a tale of a son’s grief over the loss of his mother, which is intensified by the coincidental alignment of his mother’s burial with his birthday. The man’s memories of his mother and the special ritual they shared on his birthday provide a lens through which the reader can explore the anthropological phenomenon of a woman’s transition into motherhood.
The story’s exploration of this phenomenon is both insightful and engaging, with the author taking care to provide historical and cultural context that helps to frame the phenomenon in a way that is accessible to the reader. The author’s narrative style is also captivating, with a poetic use of language that immerses the reader in the story. Overall, this book is highly recommended for anyone looking for a touching and thought-provoking read.
‘The Magical Key’ is the new children’s book by Gabriela Charatsari. Photo: Amazon
Children’s books are the perfect way to teach them valuable lessons while entertaining them. They are usually short reads and feature beautiful illustrations in vibrant and captivating colors. If you are looking for the perfect holiday gift for the children in your life, consider today’s new children’s book release. As an award-winning and best-selling author, Gabriela Charatsari continues to leave an indelible mark on the world of children’s literature, captivating young minds and spreading the joy of reading far and wide. Her new book “The Magical Key” is a captivating Christmas tale that explores the transformative power of appreciation and self-discovery. Through this extraordinary adventure, young readers will learn the invaluable lesson of cherishing life’s simplest joys and understanding that true worth lies not in material possessions, but in the essence of one’s character. “The Magical Key” is available on Amazon through the author’s website.
Gabriela Charatsari is an award-winning and best-selling author who has established herself as a prominent figure in the world of children’s literature. With a passion for storytelling and a deep love for young readers, she has captivated audiences worldwide with her enchanting tales. Based in Berlin, Germany, Gabriela’s journey as an author began over four years ago when she fearlessly pursued her dream of writing books that would ignite the imagination of children. Since then, she has written and published over 11 books, each one a unique adventure that instills important values and life lessons in a fun and engaging way. Recognized for her exceptional storytelling abilities, Gabriela has received numerous awards for her contributions to children’s literature. Her books have also become best-sellers, captivating the hearts of young readers and inspiring a lifelong love of reading. More about the author: InstagramFacebook. (Gabriela Charatsari, 2023)
Gabriela’s whimsical tales of talking animals and heartwarming stories of friendship and bravery have transported countless children to magical worlds where anything is possible. Through her vibrant illustrations and relatable characters, she creates stories that not only entertain but also teach valuable lessons about kindness, empathy, and the power of imagination. With a dedication to creating joyful and transformative reading experiences, Gabriela’s books have become cherished favorites in the lives of children around the world. Her enchanting stories have the power to spark imaginations and inspire the next generation, one page at a time.
“The Magical Key” – Tony is a disliked and feared bully in school due to his wealthy background. He experiences a life-changing event when he breaks a star on a Christmas tree during an argument with a man dressed as Santa. Surprisingly, the man grants Tony’s wish when he declares that Christmas is fake. From that point on, Tony’s family finds themselves unable to buy a Christmas tree, as if Christmas itself is blocked for them.
In search of a tree, Tony’s family visits his grandmother’s farm, where Tony chases a small elf into a porthole that transports them to Santa’s village in the North Pole. There, Tony encounters a monster and Santa’s elves. Santa assigns Tony the task of repairing old toys as a lesson in humility and kindness.
Accompanied by the mischievous elf named Dozy, Tony intentionally steals Santa’s hat, which leads to a threat from Mr. Frost against the village. However, Tony undergoes a transformation, realizing the importance of love and kindness. Together with Dozy, they assist Santa in defeating Mr. Frost and saving Christmas.
This book teaches kids several important lessons. Firstly, it emphasizes the consequences of bullying and the negative impact it can have on others. Additionally, the story highlights the value of family and the significance of Christmas traditions. It shows that material possessions are not the essence of the holiday season, but rather the love and togetherness shared with loved ones. Tony’s journey demonstrates that it is never too late to apologize, make amends, and become a more compassionate person.
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Author Gabriela Charatsari. Photo: Gabriela Charatsari, used with permission.
‘Blue Hills: Book 1 of the Bridge family saga’ is the debut historical fiction novel by Clifford Shepherd. Photo: Amazon
In historical fiction, a fictional story takes place in the setting of particular real historical events. As a huge history fan, I love reading historical fiction because it brings history to life by using relatable characters and some that we love to hate. Family sagas that span several years are especially engaging. Today’s new book release is in this particular genre. Clifford Shepherd’s debut novel “Blue Hills” is the first in the Bridge Family Saga that begins during World War II and promises to touch your heart and leave you with a renewed appreciation for the resilience of the human spirit. If you are a fan of historical fiction, family sagas, historical romances, and war/military action fiction, put this one on your TBR (to be read) list. It is available on Amazon US and Amazon UK.
Clifford Shepherd is a passionate writer whose journey begins with his debut novel “Blue Hills.” This marks the inception of a remarkable saga that will take readers on a captivating adventure, spanning from the past to the present day. Clifford’s love for the written word has been a lifelong affair, but it was a pivotal moment during a long walk with his eldest son, Cyrus, that gave him the nudge to put pen to paper. “Just do it,” his son urged, and one year later, Clifford proudly presents his first book to the world.
While crafting compelling stories, Clifford also manages a demanding day job as a senior analyst – a testament to the dedication of many indie authors who balance their creative pursuits with professional careers. Beyond his writing, Clifford’s interests extend to video editing, creating podcasts, and hosting a weekly radio show on Salford City Radio FM. Join Clifford Shepherd on his literary voyage, as he combines his diverse talents and passion for storytelling to bring you engaging narratives that will stand the test of time. (Clifford Shepherd, 2023)
Albert Bridge’s love story with Gloria begins on a high note, but fate has different plans when duty calls him away from his bride. As he finds himself thrust into the chaos of the Pacific theater during WWII, their enduring bond is put to the test.
“Blue Hills” follows the Bridges through the war-torn days to the vibrant era of the 1950s. While love may face its share of trials, and the shadows of a criminal underworld loom, the heart of this family beats strongly. With laughter as their armor and unity as their shield, they demonstrate that no matter how daunting the odds, family bonds can conquer all. It is a reminder that even the faintest glimmer of humor and the warmth of togetherness can pierce through the bleakest of times.
‘The Reward of Risk: Embracing Confidence In Your Career’ is the new book by Olivia von Holt. Photo: Olivia von Holt, used with permission.
Whether you are currently job hunting or know someone who is, it is always a good idea to be as informed as possible. Books that offer valuable insights into career, professional, and personal development are an important part of this journey, especially for young professionals. One such book is today’s new book release by Olivia von Holt where the author invites you to navigate your career path with confidence. Embrace risk-taking, strategic networking, and impactful personal growth with this practical new book perfect for new college graduates. “The Reward of Risk: Embracing Confidence In Your Career” is available now on Amazon in paperback, Kindle, and hardcover edition and in mid-December as an audiobook.
Olivia von Holt is an accomplished businesswoman and entrepreneur focusing on personal development and mentorship of young professionals. Her distinctive fusion of European and American cultural perspectives has profoundly impacted Olivia’s professional trajectory. She has extensive experience in various industries in multiple business sectors. In addition to being recognized on the prestigious “30 under 30” list, Olivia received the Woman-Owned Business Award. Her extraordinary leadership and entrepreneurial character are reflected in these honors.
While not her initial intention, Olivia accidentally entered the realm of authorship. As a mentee inspired her to document her knowledge, she started to think, “Who is mentoring whom now?” Her writing focuses on inspiration to an emerging group of professionals to share advice she wishes she had gotten earlier in her career. Olivia’s journey is a testament to the power of experience, mentorship, and the courage to embrace new paths. Her new book “The Reward of Risk: Embracing Confidence In Your Career” is an essential guide for young professionals embarking on their career paths. It serves as both a source of inspiration and a practical blueprint for building a meaningful and successful career in today’s fast-paced economy. More on the author: Instagram (Olivia von Holt, 2023)
“The Reward of Risk: Embracing Confidence In Your Career” – This book blends experienced insights with youthful energy, offering strategies for creating a standout personal brand, effective networking, and forging strong professional relationships.
Highlighting the importance of volunteer work, the book shows how it can enhance personal and professional growth, improve resumes, and develop leadership skills. It presents real-life stories where risk-taking and hard work lead to significant career achievements, providing practical advice on negotiation, overcoming setbacks, and initiating new ventures.
The guide also delves into social entrepreneurship and corporate social responsibility, emphasizing the importance of making a social impact while achieving business goals. It stresses the role of skills development, networking, mentorship, and how these elements contribute to job satisfaction and career advancement.
Internships, volunteering, and community engagement are portrayed as transformative experiences that shape professional identities and prepare individuals for global career challenges. The book also covers fundraising and social impact initiatives, teaching lessons in creativity and strategic thinking.
Overall, “The Reward of Risk” is more than just a book; it is a mentor and motivator, encouraging readers to embrace confidence, view challenges as opportunities, and see risks as potential rewards. It is a comprehensive companion for anyone ready to take their place in the professional world.
‘Let Me Help: The Best Decisions Begin With Kindness’ by David Trock. Photo: Amazon
As anyone who has ever been a patient can tell you, it is never easy being sick. Not only do you have to deal with your illness, but there are so many other issues that can make matters worse. One way we can help is to show a little kindness. This is the topic of today’s new book release “Let Me Help: The Best Decisions Begin With Kindness” by David Trock. It is a timely reminder for anyone from caregivers to medical professionals that helping others begins with kindness. In this season of giving, this would make an excellent holiday present for anyone in healthcare, whether they are nurses, PAs, doctors, medical assistants, or physical therapists. Anyone can benefit from a gentle reminder of the rewards of being kind and helping others. “Let Me Help: The Best Decisions Begin With Kindness” is available on Amazon.
David Trock has written in several genres including medical journals, book chapters, non-fiction books “Healing Fibromyalgia” and “Let Me Help: The Best Decisions Begin With Kindness,” and a humanist murder mystery titled “A Religion Called Love.” He grew up in Brooklyn, NY and served for 30 years on faculty at Yale University School of Medicine and 18 years as Chief of Rheumatology at Danbury Hospital in Connecticut. His insight into patient care, bedside manner, and Stoic Philosophy will delight anyone who has ever taken a patient by the hand. (David Trock, 2023)
“Let Me Help: The Best Decisions Begin With Kindness” – In an era of busy doctors, virtual visits, electronic records, and complicated insurance, patients are feeling frustrated. This book is a reminder that patient satisfaction begins with kindness and is achievable by following a few simple principles. The inspiring words of this book include patient narratives, advice for young caregivers, champions of healthcare, and stirring accounts of kindness in medical decision-making. Readers of “Let Me Help” will recognize the keys to patient satisfaction and the rewards of helping others.
Nightmare on 34th Street will be available on digital starting December 5, 2023. Courtesy photo, used with permission.
I like the holiday season, but for me, there’s nothing like a good horror/slasher movie to get into the mood, especially if Krampus is involved. That brings me to today’s new movie news: Nightmare on 34th street is coming to digital (Plex) on December 5, 2023 from Wild Eye Releasing. So if you’re not ready to let the creepy season go yet, check it out.
Nightmare on 34th Street– A mysterious and psychopathic Santa Claus visits a small, rural town with a bag full of unusual gifts and twisted holiday stories featuring Krampus, a murderous St. Nick, and killer carol singers that are certain to ruin the Christmas season forever. Caroline Boulton, Lucy Pinder, Dani Thompson, Ewen MacIntosh, Andy Gatenby, Adam Greaves-Neal star in a James Crow film. (October Coast, 2023)
‘Hesed: Does the Tanakh Foreshadow Jesus?’ is volume one in the series by Mark Stouffer. Photo: Mark Stouffer, used with permission.
The Tanakh, the Hebrew Bible, is Judaism’s foundational text. If you ever wanted to delve into the teachings of this Hebrew text, then today’s new book release might be of interest to you. In “Hesed: Does the Tanakh Foreshadow Jesus?,” Mark Stouffer proposes that it foreshadows the Messiah that the Jewish people have been waiting for. Join the author as he leads readers on a quest to hear the message of the Tanakh, as opposed to what they want to hear. Whether Jewish or Christian, or even if you are just interested in biblical studies in general, this book promises a well researched examination of both faiths. It is available on Amazon.
Mark Stouffer is an engineer who lives with his family in Columbus, Ohio. Mark was born in 1960 and grew up loving sports. Mark has a passion for the Bible, which he has been studying and teaching for nearly 40 years. Mark has been to Israel and has great respect for the Jewish people. His new book, “Hesed: Does the Tanakh Foreshadow Jesus?,” is for Jewish people who want to know the truth about Jesus. It is also for Christians who want to learn about the Hebrew Bible. (Mark Stouffer, 2023)
“Hesed: Does the Tanakh Foreshadow Jesus?” While arguing with the Jewish religious leaders, Jesus said, “You search the Scriptures, because you think that in them you have eternal life; and it is these that bear witness of Me; . . .” In this book, the author examines the Tanakh in order to see if Jesus’ claim has any merit.
“Hesed: Volume One” is the first book in a four volume series written for Jewish people who want to know the truth about Jesus. This book is also good for Christians who want to learn about the Tanakh, or Old Testament. The series examines five elements in the Tanakh that appear to foreshadow Jesus. Volume One covers the first two elements.
The five elements are:
1. Sacrificial atonement in the Torah 2. A series of Biblical heroes who had experiences that were similar to things that happened to Jesus 3. The messianic prophecy of the Tanakh 4. G-d’s plan for humanity 5. The incompleteness of the Tanakh in which the issue of our moral guilt is not decisively resolved
Volume One examines the subject of sacrificial atonement in the Torah to see if it foreshadows Jesus’ death on the cross. It also covers the lives of Isaac, Joseph, Moses, David, Daniel, and Cyrus. For they each went through experiences that Jesus also wound up going through many centuries later. The question is, were these moments from their lives placed in the Tanakh intentionally or coincidentally?
‘Don’t Say Cis’ is the new science fiction novel by Hunter Cahoon and Cole Deyo. Photo: Amazon
The theme for today is philosophy and going with that, some people would say that there is a rise in hedonistic nihilism in our current society. Hedonistic nihilism is the belief that if life is inherently meaningless, and since you only live once, then you might as well enjoy your life to the maximum. If you are interested in deep philosophical discussions and enjoy authors like Franz Kafka, Friedrich Nietzsche, George Orwell, H.G Wells, and others, then you might want to check out today’s new book release. “Don’t Say Cis” by Hunter Z Cahoon and Cole A Deyo is a dystopian novel focused on hedonistic nihilism and how it affects the life of one family and the world around them. It is sure to leave an impression on readers and hopefully start a meaningful dialogue on what motivates humankind – it is available on Amazon.
Hunter Cahoon is a current masters student in clinical mental health. His narratives focus on the psychological effects of particular personal philosophies. Mainly, hedonism and nihilism are often critiqued harshly in his works. Cahoon’s inspirations are none other then Carl Jung, Fyodor Dostoyevsky, Fredrich Nietzsche, and Franz Kafka. Fans of these authors and psychologists will likely enjoy many elements found in Cahoon’s writings, which blend creativity with deep psychological and philosophical discussion. In the new book “Don’t Say Cis, current master student in clinical mental health, Hunter Cahoon and current bachelor student, Cole Deyo attack the current trend of hedonic nihilism occurring in America while showing the negative effects of banning free speech and intellectual diversity which could help stop the spread of such a philosophy. (Hunter Cahoon, 2023)
“Don’t Say Cis” – What happens when society continues its trend of pursuing the lowest quality pleasures to fill its hedonistic desires? The year is 2059, and a small family finds themselves in this new world full of depression and despair. The group finds the lack of free speech and narrow mindedness of the citizens turn deadly for them. At every turn there is nihilism, purposelessness, false virtues, ignorance of the highest possible good, suicide, impulsively violent anger, and many injustices.
‘Unnatural Death’ is the new Scarpetta novel by Patricia Cornwell. Photo: Amazon
Medical thrillers are some of my favorite novels to read, specifically Michael Palmer, Robin Cook, and Patricia Cornwell. I have read almost all of Patricia Cornwell’s Scarpetta novels, so I am excited for her new release: “Unnatural Death.”
Patricia Cornwell sold her first novel, “Postmortem,” while working at the Office of the Chief Medical Examiner in Richmond, Virginia. An auspicious debut, it went on to win the Edgar, Creasey, Anthony, and Macavity Awards, as well as the French Prix du Roman d’Aventures—the first book ever to claim all these distinctions in a single year. Growing into an international phenomenon, the Scarpetta series won Cornwell the Sherlock Award for best detective created by an American author, the Gold Dagger Award, the RBA Thriller Award, and the Medal of Chevalier of the Order of Arts and Letters for her contributions to literary and artistic development. Today, Cornwell’s novels and iconic characters are known around the world. Her interests range from the morgue to artificial intelligence and include visits to Interpol, the Pentagon, the U.S. Secret Service and NASA. Her new book “Unnatural Death” is the 27th book in the Scarpetta series and involves two mauled bodies in the woods, top secret autopsies, and the most chilling cases of Scarpetta’s career. It will be released November 28, 2023. (Amazon, 2023)
“Unnatural Death” – In this thrilling new installment of Patricia Cornwell’s #1 bestselling Scarpetta series, chief medical examiner Dr. Kay Scarpetta finds herself in a Northern Virginia wilderness examining the remains of two campers wanted by federal law enforcement. The victims have been savaged beyond recognition, and other evidence is terrifying and baffling, including a larger-than-life footprint. After one of the most frightening body retrievals of her career, Scarpetta must discover who would commit murders this savage, and why.
SA Examiner 