Tag: books

Book review: ‘The Ultimate Guide to Power & Influence’ by Robert L. Dilenschneider

‘The Ultimate Guide to Power & Influence’ is the new book by Robert L. Dilenschneider. Photo: Amazon

Robert L. Dilenschneider started in public relations in 1967 in New York, shortly after receiving an MA in journalism from Ohio State University, and a BA from the University of Notre Dame. He formed The Dilenschneider Group in October, 1991. The Firm provides strategic advice and counsel to Fortune 500 companies and leading families and individuals around the world, with experience in fields ranging from mergers and acquisitions and crisis communications to marketing, government affairs and international media. Dilenschneider was with that organization for nearly 25 years. He is the author of “The Public Relations Handbook,” “The Critical First Years of Your Professional Life,” “50 Plus!: Critical Career Decisions for the Rest of Your Life,” and numerous other books on career and professional development. In his new book “The Ultimate Guide to Power & Influence: Everything You Need to Know,” he explains how technology and globalization have revolutionized the ways to both build and keep success—and tells readers that to accomplish your goals, you must not only gain power, but also apply it with proper wisdom. (Amazon, 2023)

“The Ultimate Guide to Power & Influence” arms you with intellectual, technical, and moral weapons—tools needed to get and stay ahead in the increasingly competitive and ever-evolving business world. Acquiring both power and influence is crucial to advancing not only your personal interests, but also a more prosperous society at large. Drawing from current-day lessons and the wisdom of hundreds of drivers of change in all fields of business, this is the author’s latest guide to harnessing the universal principles for success. It provides anecdotes and insights on a wide range of keys to success, including how to seize opportunity amid crisis, manage your network, communicate effectively, and take full advantage of social media to bolster your image. The book is divided into 15 chapters, including Networking: You Have to Do It, Protect Yourself and Your Reputation, and The Inevitable Crisis: Know How To Handle It and Benefit. It begins in the first chapter by asking readers to get to know themselves because to be an effective leader, you have to understand yourself and your needs first because “Self awareness….is one of the pillars of emotional intelligence (along with empathy, self-management, and social skills) and must come first.” The first part centers around building your power and influence while the second part shows you how to keep that hard earned influence during inevitable times of crisis. At the end, there are notes listed by chapter and an index that makes it easy to search by topic.

Change is the overall theme in “The Ultimate Guide to Power & Influence.” The first two sentences in the Introduction immediately draw you in: “You have a choice. Keep doing what you did yesterday or adapt to a world that is changing everyday.” Indeed, the business world is constantly changing and we must adapt to keep up, especially in a post-COVID world. Robert Dilenschneider has the experience, knowledge, and authority to help readers acquire and amplify their power; from graduate students to corporate professionals. Despite the topic of business, the language is easy to understand and follow because it contains practical advice for career and personal life. He shares inspirational stories to highlight the point he is making because stories make more of an impact than facts and figures ever could. His books are helpful and relevant because he adjusts his message to reflect the changing times and everyone can benefit from his advice, and this one is no exception. Highlights include Chapter 2: Networking that stresses the importance of networking not only in your select filed of work, but also reaching out to contacts outside of your circle; and Chapter 7: The Right Way to Make Your Mistakes that teaches the right way to approach making mistakes: “With humility and perseverance, we move forward and improve” – lesson learned: the biggest mistake is failure to LEARN from our mistakes. “The Ultimate Guide to Power & Influence” is an extremely useful guide that helps readers navigate the ever changing landscape of business as well as their professional and private lives. It is a must read for readers interested in business, economic, and ethics for personal and professional development.

“If there are absolutely no mistakes in a company, then no one is taking a risk, and innovation will atrophy.”

*The author received a copy of this book for an honest review. The views and opinions expressed here belong solely to her.

Rating: 4 out of 5.

Book of the week: ‘Sufi Stories of Wisdom, Calm and Wondrous Mystique’

‘Sufi Stories of Wisdom, Calm and Wondrous Mystique’ is available on SagaTeller

Today’s book highlight is “Sufi Stories of Wisdom, Calm and Wondrous Mystique.” Sufism is a way of life where one attempts to reach a deeper understanding of life. Rather than a doctrine or a belief system, it is an experience and a way of life as well as “a tradition of enlightenment that carries the essential truth forward through time.” (The Threshold Society). If you are interested in books about Sufism, enlightenment, and developing a deeper life, consider this one. “Sufi Stories of Wisdom, Calm and Wondrous Mystique” is an enjoyable read and is sure to leave a lasting imprint on your heart. You are invited to immerse yourself in each narrative and uncover the hidden gems of Sufi wisdom as these captivating stories guide you on a journey of inner peace. (SagaTeller, 2023)

“Sufi Stories of Wisdom, Calm and Wondrous Mystique” is published by SagaTeller. The author is on a journey to discover the wisdom of the ancient masters that lies hidden in academic libraries. As the author writes “The wisdom of the ancient Sufi masters has humbled me and given me a sense of peace that I had never experienced before. I hope to share what I’ve learned with you.”

This beautiful little anthology masterfully weaves together ancient Sufi stories and historical accounts, introducing you to the revered figures of Sufi tradition and their profound teachings. You will witness the deep love for our Creator that defines the Sufi path. The ancient mystics went beyond mere obligations and fear, and spread the message of positivity and hope through their stories.

The true essence of Sufi stories lies in their ability to transcend ordinary narratives. These stories become gateways to deeper contemplation, inviting profound realizations, and personal growth.

As you traverse the mystical landscapes of these tales, you will discover the virtues of kindness, truthfulness, and honesty. Through the timeless wisdom of the Sufi mystics, you will be presented with teachings that resonate deeply, transcending the boundaries of age and time.

In Sufi stories the heroes are not those with extraordinary feats, but those who embody the best of human values. They are beacons of love and serenity, offering inspiration that extends beyond the realms of superheroes and celebrities. The wonderful stories unveil the mystique as you embrace the calmness and find peace. Let each tale be your guiding light, leading you towards the serenity that awaits in the heart of the Sufi tradition.

More books on Sufi stories.

Please share your personal experiences of Sufi life.

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Book review: ‘Runway Dreams: A Pricey Affair’ by T.K. Ambers

‘Runway Dreams: A Pricey Affair’ is the new mystery thriller by T.K. Ambers. Photo: Amazon

T.K. Ambers is the award-winning author of “Runway Dreams A Pricey Affair.” Her novel has been recognized in four different award competitions and took second place in the Pencraft Awards, Women’s Fiction category. She lives in New Richmond, Wisconsin with her husband and two cats: Bellatrix and Kit. She would spend her perfect day lakeside, where she would swim, play games, and then wind down with a bonfire, s’mores, and stories told by family and friends. “Runway Dreams: A Pricey Affair” is a dark and comedic thriller about family dynamics and what happens when the youngest sibling in a prestigious family of models falls for a con man with a dangerous past. Follow the author: Facebook Instagram (T.K Ambers, 2023)

“Runway Dreams” – As a model born into the modeling industry, Bernadette (Bernie) Price has everything an heiress could desire, except a romantic partner to share her dreams with. Which is why she turns to online dating where she meets Martin Day, a handsome and successful financial advisor who is moving to her town. Her sister Belinda (Bell) has reservations about online dating, but Bernie is determined to meet Martin in person after talking to him online and on the phone for six months. This is where the story begins, as Bernie is getting ready for her date with Martin. With an absent mother, Bell has taken up the role and is voicing her reservations about this date. By the time she meets Martin at her father’s jazz club, Bernie is hooked. The couple clicks, and their relationship is on the fast track to marital bliss and they become engaged after only a few months of meeting in person. Before the wedding, a stranger (Matthew) brings unsettling news of Martin’s past. The Price family finds themselves divided as they sort through who is telling the truth. When Bernie disappears, her siblings must put their frustrations aside and help their sister reclaim her life before Martin claims theirs.

Most often, the modeling world comes across as a luxurious and worry free lifestyle filled with glamour, photo shoots, and money. What many seldom see is the reality that even beautiful, rich, and famous people ignore their instincts and get into toxic relationships, often with tragic results. It is interesting to read what happens behind the scenes at fashion shows and how models deal with publicity and fame. The story is narrated in the third person point of view and the language is easy to understand and descriptive at times, especially when describing the characters: “His bronzed skin was like a light creamy chocolate, and she guessed it might taste just as sweet.” The first half is lighthearted with occasional funny moments but after Chapter 13, it turns dark as reality sinks in and Bernie is faced with an abusive husband and her family is in the crosshairs. It should be noted that there are brief scenes of domestic abuse, but they are not graphic and only serve to highlight the seriousness of the situation and in fact they make the characters more relatable. The pulse pounding action makes the story flow effortlessly until the dramatic climax. With a perfect balance of comedy and thrilling action that highlights the importance of family, “Runway Dreams” is a must read and recommended for fans of mysteries and dramatic domestic thrillers similar to the best of Nora Roberts.

“As they drove back toward town, there was no laughter. The tears fell silently, and the three siblings held hands. Bernie knew that in time, some of the worst days of their lives would be far behind them, but for now, it was okay to let the tears flow.”

*The author received a copy of this book for an honest review. The views and opinions expressed here belong solely to her.

Rating: 4 out of 5.

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New book release: ‘Bag Girl’ by Tozanee Smith

‘Bag Girl’ is the upcoming new memoir from Tozanee Smith. Photo: Tozanee Smith, used with permission.

If you like biographies and memoirs of strong women who survived a tough childhood against all odds, this upcoming new release is just for you. “Bag Girl” by Tozanee Smith will be released on Kindle on September 22, but don’t worry, it’s available for pre-order through Amazon. Reserve your copy today! 

Tozanee Smith is a teacher, a mother, a nurse, and a cook (at heart). She loves spending time at home on the couch with a good romance book with the occasional glass of wine. From time to time, she likes to spend quality time with close personal friends. She lives in Martinsburg, WV and enjoys going to the movies and long road trips. Her new book “Bag Girl: Memoir: Home Is Where The Bag Is” is a memoir of strength, courage, survival, and resilience. It will be released on September 22, 2023. (Tozanee Smith, 2023)

“Bag Girl” – Trying to survive the chaotic world of being the eldest of my family comes with its own baggage. On top of being diagnosed with diabetes and PCOS at a young age, dealing with a bipolar sex crazed mother who cared more about men then her own children was a whole different fight. Having being taught to stay in a child’s place and that my feelings did not matter, nor did I have a say in anything, I knew I was brought into this world for one thing and one thing only. To mother, not be mothered. Battling my own personal demons along with my anxiety and depression was enough for my mother to keep me grounded, that alone came with its side of verbal abuse and humiliation.

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Book of the week: ‘Breathe: Healing Conversations’ by Karen Achille

‘Breathe: Healing Conversations’ is a contemporary poetry book by Karen Achille. Photo: Karen Achille, used with permission.

In today’s book news: if you love poetry as much as I do, Karen Achille’s “Breathe: Healing Conversations” should be on your radar. Take a journey into the full range of emotions that poetry can convey.

Karen Achille is a Georgia-based and Haiti-born poetess, teacher, and relationship coach whose lifelong vision is to help empathic souls heal through the power of poetic storytelling. In addition to the co-authored debut book “Jaded” and her second book “Breathe,” she holds a Bachelor’s degree in English and two graduate degrees in English Education and Leadership. When she is not pouring her heart out on paper, you can find this altruistic soul dancing like nobody is watching, cooking a delicious meal, or simply relaxing in the present moment. She is also a pluviophile and nature lover. Above all else, Karen cherishes quality time spent with her loved ones, especially her love and muse, Gayle. “Breathe” is available on Amazon. More from the author: Writer’s Workshop: The Creative Huddle. (Karen Achille, 2023)

“Breathe” takes the reader on an emotive voyage of upheaval, heartache, healing, and ultimately, personal transformation. Through heartfelt poetic narration and evocative lines, poetess Karen Achille reveals a relatable story that reminds you that you are never truly alone on this journey called life. By the book’s end, each sense will be awakened, and your heart will be empowered. Most importantly, “Breathe” invites the reader to truly reside in the present, darkness and all.

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Book review: ‘The Alpha Upgrade of HD Heathers: Book of Glads Volume 1′ by Todd S. Glider’

‘The Alpha Upgrade of HD Heathers’ is Book 1 in the Science Fiction saga The Book of Glads. Photo: Amazon.

Todd S. Glider is an author, musician, director, and producer. After 13 years of living in Europe, he, along with his wife Jeremie and their cat, Sophie, returned to the United States. The three of them currently reside in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania. In his new book, “The Alpha Upgrade of HD Heathers,” follow the #4 Glad in Mega-City Philadelphia, HD Heathers, as she navigates celebrity, loneliness, and the creeping feeling that the world is not as utopian as she would have been led to believe. It is Book 1 in the Science Fiction saga The Book of Glads. It is available on Amazon and Book Selfie. Follow the author: Instagram. More about Book Selfie here. (Amazon, 2023)

“The Alpha Upgrade of HD Heathers” – Experience a world in which nation states have fallen by the wayside, giving way to The Mega-City System and The Alpha Upgrade Program. While The System acknowledges, and even caters to the shortcomings of all citizens, The Program gives everyone the opportunity to have the strength, dexterity or virility of a superhero, and the fame that comes with it. The one catch is that you must agree to participate in the most popular form of entertainment, Gladiatorial Combat—sometimes to the death. HD Heathers opted for a strength upgrade fresh out of high school. Now, 15 years later, she is the hero of millions, having gained wealth, prestige, and stardom. She is a genetically enhanced human with superhuman strength, commonly known as a Brawn. The story opens as she is taken by surprise and attacked by an unknown competitor in a FAB, a Floating Arena Battle. He turns out to be Billy O. Boyd, someone from her past, but the battle has no clear winner and that is not the last she will see of him. As she encounters one obstacle after another, the world she knows will make her question her decisions and the motivation of those who surround her.

Set in a futuristic Mega-City Philadelphia of 2370 where “content was king across the Mega-City System and ScrimCoating was the medium for viewing remote content,” technology has advanced to the point where almost every Citizen wears a ScrimCoated wristband at all times. Drones are a constant source of monitoring and recording, often in pictures, which is why HD Heathers constantly presents a ‘picture perfect’ posture to the world. This is one appeal of “The Alpha Upgrade of HD Heathers” because it makes the future similar to today’s world, with more sophisticated technology and modern day Gladiators, who have opted for upgrades like superhuman strength and agility. The only drawback is that they must constantly battle others like themselves and basically serve as entertainment for the masses. The characters are well developed (HD Heathers is a strong female character) and relatable and the language is descriptive and poetic “HD could not see much more than some ghostly tendrils crossing the brightest star, Sirius, and the anemic blade of a crescent moon.” The pacing of the story is constant and steady, leading up to the climatic final battle. With a futuristic setting and Gladiator style battle scenes, “The Alpha Upgrade of HD Heathers” is a highly entertaining science fiction novel; it serves as a social commentary on capitalism and what passes for entertainment in a world where content and popularity rankings are influential. It is recommended for readers who appreciate futuristic science fiction novels and superhero/fantasy science fiction.

* Disclaimer: contains explicit sex scenes.

“Many in the crowd averted their eyes. Some shook their heads. Others wept. There were blank faces, too. “WAS THAT NOT ENOUGH?” HD shouted. “CITIZENS! ARE YOU NOT ENTERTAINED?” The silence held. HD shouted, “VERY WELL! I AM HERE TO ENTERTAIN YOU!”

Rating: 4 out of 5.
Group review of ‘The Alpha Upgrade of HD Heathers’

Children’s book: ‘Harrison Waits’ by Missy Hagen

‘Harrison Waits’ is a children’s book written and illustrated by Missy Hagen. Photo: Amazon

In today’s book news, the spotlight shines on a children’s book about a boy who is waiting for something big and how he passes the time. Missy Hagen’s “Harrison Waits” is an illustrated children’s book that is sure to entertain the little ones in your life.

Missy Hagen came to children’s book writing and illustrating after an eclectic career in fields that seemed to predict such destiny. She has a BA in Elementary Education from Cornell College, spent years in corporate technical writing, built a popular aerobic dance program in the eighties, and raised three children, all before returning to college for web and graphic design. She combined her teaching, technical, and design skills as Educational Technology Director for Rochester Community and Technical College for over 10 years. When her grandson Harrison was born, it sparked the idea for “Harrison Waits” based on his FOUR initials. A story focusing on the letters H and W and about how the rewards of being patient and keeping busy yield an outcome worth waiting for. Missy’s watercolor and ink artwork has often been exhibited and featured throughout southeast Minnesota where she resides with her husband.

“Harrison Waits” is a wonderful story about a young boy who is anxiously waiting for … what? See how Harrison patiently passes the time while he anticipates the arrival of something special he has been looking forward to for a long time. Will it be worth the wait? Can Harrison find enough to do to keep himself busy while waiting? The colorful artwork from Missy Hagen will captivate all ages while the clever play on the letters “H” and “W” will entertain readers and listeners alike. For extra fun, search for hidden “H” and “W” words illustrated on each page.

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Book of the week: ‘I Know You By Heart: Navigating the Dementia Journey’ by Angie Swetland

‘I Know You By Heart: Navigating the Dementia Journey’ by Angie Swetland. Photo: Amazon

It is hard enough having to care for a loved one with dementia, but often, the resources and support system are hard to come by. This resource guide aims to answer readers questions about dementia and gives personal experience accounts and coping tips, all in easy to understand language.

Angie Swetland graduated from Luther College with a degree in Sociology and Religion. Her first job was as Activity Director in a small-town nursing home. Forty years later, she retired as Corporate Director of Customer Relations at Presbyterian Homes and Services (PHS), one of the nation’s largest not-for-profit providers of senior housing and services. During her time at PHS, Angie developed curricula for Dementia Care services and worked with care teams to ensure care protocols were in place. Angie also assisted in developing a Dementia Care Specialist certification program offered jointly by the Alzheimer’s Association of Minnesota and North Dakota and served on its faculty. Currently, she serves on the Board of Directors of Our Lady of Peace Hospice and Home. Angie facilitates a Dementia Caregiver Support Group at Easter Lutheran Church and enjoys public speaking to area churches and other organizations about Dementia Care. Her book “I Know You By Heart: Navigating the Dementia Journey” gives answers to some of their commonly asked questions about dementia as well as coping strategies for the future. (Angie Swetland, 2023)

“I Know You By Heart: Navigating the Dementia Journey” – In the U.S. today, over 5.8 million Americans are living with Alzheimer’s Disease or related dementia. Each of these individuals has a story and each one has caregivers with stories of their own. You have questions – so many questions about what is happening now, and what is to come. How do I cope with this new manifestation of the disease? How do I prepare for an uncertain future? This is especially true when just navigating your way through each day can be overwhelming. In navigating this journey, it is important to remember two essential truths. The first is that the body may fail, and the mind may wander, but the spirit – the person inside – remains intact. The caregiver’s role is to maximize the remaining strengths of the person they care for. The second is that you are not alone. Caregiving is often an isolating experience. Stories from the lives of others let us know that our experiences are not unique. Be assured that many have gone before, and others are walking the same road today.

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Five activities that can bring your life joy

Woman forming heart with hands. Photo: Unsplash

Life is often so busy. We have many responsibilities and commitments that it’s so easy to forget to live. After all, there are so many things in our lives that can bring us joy and we definitely deserve to indulge in them regularly. Yet, either we just can’t find the time or them or we don’t always really know what to turn to. If you’ve found yourself in a rut, you may want a little inspiration. So here are five things that you should always look to fill your life with for more joy.

1. Books
First of all, we have books. When you’re a bookworm and avid reader, books are always going to bring you joy. You’re going to find that you’re able to really immerse yourself into a relaxing environment when you read. It’s okay to always want to prioritize reading time. Filling your life with books and stories can be a simple way to make sure that your life feels fulfilling.

2. Food
It’s safe to say that food always brings us joy. When you’re eating your favorite meals, life can feel good. And if you’re a foodie, taking the time out to go to the right restaurants and trying new dishes is always going to be fun for you. But you can also do the same by cooking things up at home too. Maybe it’s an authentic goulash or your favorite pasta dish – another way, cooking can always make you happy. And it’s certainly something to enjoy the results of too.

3. Movies
If you love cinema, then turning to the right movies is always a good idea. You’re likely to find that filling up your time with amazing stories, documentaries, and even things like shows and theater could spark so much joy in your life. Cinema is art, just as much as other forms. So allowing yourself to switch off and enjoy it can be such a great move for you.

4. Nature
Then we have nature. Being in nature is something that can bring so much happiness into our lives without us even knowing it. Nature is calming. When we’re outdoors, we can exercise, move, enjoy sunlight, and many other things that help our health. Whether you like to walk, practice yoga in the garden, read in the sunshine, or anything else, being in nature can be great for you.

5. Travel
Finally, there’s also travel. You may find that getting out and about in the world is always going to bring you a lot of joy. There’s a wealth of experiences to be had when you travel. From relaxing and enjoying the culture, to getting out into nature and eating more food (two of our joy-filled things), you can do so much when you travel. If you’re yet to book your next trip, go ahead and do it. After all, our lives should be filled with experiences we’ll never forget.

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Romance novel of the week: ‘Loving You Is Destiny’ by Sarah Akkoyun

‘Loving You Is Destiny’ by Sarah Akkoyun. Courtesy photo, used with permission.

If you love reading romance novels, here is one for you: “Loving You Is Destiny,” the latest novel by Sarah Akkoyun. It is available on Amazon. (Sarah Akkoyun, 2023)

“Loving You Is Destiny” – Vanessa Lawrence had always thought she would end up marrying the love of her life, David Dawson, one day. – Yet here she is one year later, still unable to move on. Her family and best friend try their best to support her, but they just cannot understand what she is going through. Vanessa did not want to move on, at least, not until she met Lucas Graham.

He brought joy and happiness back into her life, but she should not get any closer to him than she already was. She could not forget David, she still wanted him to be a part of her life. It was not fair to Lucas, Vanessa knew that, but they could be friends, right? Nothing more, nothing less. Just good friends. No matter what Taylor, her best friend, said. Even though Taylor just wanted Vanessa to be happy again. Vanessa never expected to discover a secret about what happened a year ago, considering she thought there was nothing left to find out. Now she has to decide if love can truly overcome anything.

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