Tag: fiction

Laugh, Learn, and Love: ‘Sis Boom Baa!’ Brings Joy to Young Readers

Dragons, dinosaurs, and daring adventures await in the delightful new children’s book ‘Sis Boom Baa!’ Photo: Amazon

Children’s books captivate young readers through vibrant illustrations, engaging stories, and relatable characters. They spark imagination, curiosity, and emotional growth, often teaching valuable life lessons in an entertaining way. The use of simple language and rhythmic patterns makes them accessible to early readers, while interactive elements like rhyme, repetition, and humor keep children engaged. By exploring diverse themes such as friendship, kindness, and adventure, they create a sense of empathy and creativity. Their appeal lies in the magical combination of fun and learning that resonates with young minds.

Ready to explore a world where laughter meets adventure? Presenting ‘Sis Boom Baa!,’ a whimsical children’s fantasy adventure designed for ages 6-12 and beautifully illustrated by the talented Bill DeOre. This enchanting tale is bound to captivate young minds and tickle funny bones while imparting timeless values. (WooGirl Public Relations, 2024)

Cappy McGarr is an Emmy-nominated co-founder of the Mark Twain Prize for American Humor and the Library of Congress Gershwin Prize for Popular Song. He’s one of few people to be appointed to the Kennedy Center by two different presidents. His writing has been published in the New York Times, Politico, and USA Today. His memoir, “The Man Who Made Mark Twain Famous,” is available at retailers everywhere.

Chandler Dean is a Brooklyn-based comedian and speechwriter whose satire has been featured in The New Yorker, McSweeney’s, Reductress, and Hard Drive. He is a director at the speechwriting firm West Wing Writers, where he co-leads the firm’s humor practice. He has previously worked for The Late Show with Stephen Colbert, Late Night with Seth Meyers, and Full Frontal with Samantha Bee.

‘Sis Boom Baa!’ – This is the tale of a kingdom once saved by Princess Lil’ Cap and Sir Hud the Brave…

Princess Lil’ Cap and Sir Hud the Brave live a happy, peaceful life in a beautiful castle. But what happens when they’re betrayed by an old friend and banished from the kingdom? To get back home, they’ll learn how to improvise, accept help from others, embrace bravery, and believe in themselves.

Join Princess Lil Cap and Sir Hud the Brave as they navigate a thrilling journey to return home after being betrayed and banished from their kingdom. They encounter dragons, dinosaurs, and trolls that challenge their courage and impart life-changing lessons.

Enjoy a tale that hilariously pokes fun at classic fantasy tropes while offering deep conversations between parents and children. It embraces crucial virtues such as bravery, empathy, confidence, humility, and forgiveness throughout this rollicking adventure.

Parental Advisory: This book features awesome creatures like dragons and dinosaurs. You should only read this book to your child if they enjoy awesome things.

Grade Level: 4 – 6

Therese Bohman’s ‘Andromeda: A Novel’ – A Story of Power and a Changing World

‘Andromeda: A Novel’ is the new novel by critically acclaimed Swedish author Therese Bohman. Courtesy photo, used with permission.

Therese Bohman grew up outside of Norrköping and now lives in Stockholm. Her debut novel“Drowned” received critical acclaim both in Sweden and internationally and was selected as an Oprah Winfrey Summer Read. Her second novel “The Other Woman” was short- listed for the Nordic Council Prize and Swedish Radio’s Fiction Prize, while her third novel “Eventide” was short-listed for Sweden’s most prestigious literary award, the August Prize. Bohman is an arts journalist who regularly contributes to one of Sweden’s largest newspapers, Expressen, and to the magazine Tidningen Vi. (Other Press, 2024)

The latest novel from critically acclaimed Swedish author Therese Bohman, “Andromeda: A Novel,” is a sharp and insightful tale of power and a changing world.

“Andromeda” – In this ambitious novel, a young woman working her way up at a storied Stockholm publisher develops an ambiguous, shifting relationship with her boss. A shrewd study about the tension between tradition and modernity, and expectations and reality, “Andromeda” offers a fresh perspective from a fierce voice and will be released on January 14, 2025. It is available for pre-order.

The publishing house is anchored like a ship along Stockholm’s main street, a large, bright building with an impressive rooftop terrace. The facade is a grid of wood and granite; flags with a cursive R sway in the wind. R as in Rydéns. A young woman starts as an intern at this venerated institution, and over many years gains more and more responsibility for its authors and books. All under the supervision of Gunnar, publishing director of the most prestigious imprint behind the finest literature, Andromeda. Over time their work relationship transforms into something neither of them can truly define. Perhaps built on mutual trust? Or is it something else?

Perfect for fans of the complex relationship dynamics and the explorations of female agency in Coco Mellors’s “Cleopatra and Frankenstein” and Julia May Jonas’s “Vladimir,” “Andromeda” is sure to linger in the minds of longtime lovers of Bohman’s work and new readers alike. It is translated by Marlaine Delargy.

Marlaine Delargy has translated novels by John Ajvide Lindqvist, Kristina Ohlsson, and Helene Tursten, as well as “The Unit” by Ninni Holmqvist and Therese Bohman’s “Drowned.” She lives in England.

“Elegant and captivating, Andromeda plumbs the depths of the tantalizingly ambiguous relationship between college-aged Sofie and her middle-aged boss, Gunnar. Both characters (understandably) deride the overused phrase ‘balance of power,’ and yet the novel does indeed offer a fresh and provocative subversion of that familiar narrative—it was thrilling to watch their electric, profound connection unfold. As their worldviews intertwine, the novel delves into the ways literature shapes our lives, our desires and disappointments. I inhaled this book and will be thinking about it for a while.”
—Caitlin Barasch, author of A Novel Obsession

“Andromeda is the best kind of company—a book I kept longing to return to, full of ideas and emotion.”
—Julia May Jonas, author of Vladimir

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‘The Secrets of Still Waters Chasm’: A Thrilling Tale of Secrets and Suspense

‘The Secrets of Still Waters Chasm’ is the latest in the Ohnita Harbor Mystery Series by Patricia Crisafulli. Photo: Barnes & Noble

Mystery novels are known for their blend of suspense, intrigue, and problem-solving. These stories often present a puzzle or crime, inviting readers to unravel clues alongside the protagonist. The thrill of discovering hidden secrets, combined with plot twists and red herrings, keeps them engaged and eager to turn the page. These novels appeal to our curiosity, encouraging us to solve the mystery before the characters do. The genre also offers a sense of justice, as solutions bring order to chaos. Whether set in cozy towns or dark urban landscapes, mystery books provide a satisfying escape into the unknown.

Today I’d like to shine the spotlight on a novel that, according to a Goodreads review, “blends Da Vinci Code and Murder She Wrote” and is a quick and fun read – “The Secrets of Still Waters Chasm” by Patricia Crisafulli.

Patricia Crisafulli is an award-winning New York Times best-selling author. Her debut novel, “The Secrets of Ohnita Harbor,” the first in the Ohnita Harbor Mystery Series, was published in September 2022 by Woodhall Press. She received a Master of Fine Arts (MFA) degree from Northwestern University, where she received the Distinguished Thesis Award in Creative Writing. She is the author of New York Times best-seller “House of Dimon: How J.P. Morgan’s Jamie Dimon Rose to the Top of the Financial World,” and the coauthor of “Rwanda, Inc: How a Devastated Nation Became an Economic Model for the Developing World,” an Editor’s Choice book on Amazon. In her latest book, “The Secrets of Still Waters Chasm,” a hike through the pristine wild of Still Waters Chasm becomes a path of mystery and deadly danger for Gabriela Domenici and her boyfriend, Daniel Red Deer. It is book 2 in the Ohnita Harbor Mystery Series. (Barnes & Noble/Advanced Brand Communications, 2024)

“The Secrets of Still Waters Chasm”– On a beautiful September afternoon, Gabriela and Daniel take a side trail to an inexplicable construction site in the middle of the woods where every tree has been cut down and a huge truck bearing strange looking equipment is parked in the middle. As they continue their hike to the lake, they find a man convulsing with his last breaths, not far from the lifeless body of a woman. After going for help, they return to the scene—only to find the two people and their canoe and gear are gone. It seems impossible that two bodies could revive and leave on their own, but there is no other explanation.

When she conducts a library outreach program in the rural Town of Livery, near Still Waters Chasm, Gabriela discovers a community that is both curious and suspicious. There, she meets Lucinda Nanz, an herbalist whose encyclopedic knowledge of plants for help and harm is both fascinating and troubling, and Wendy Haughton, a young woman who desperately wants to sell an old drawing of unknown origin so she can escape her abusive husband. Despite the state police’s warnings to stay out of the investigation, and Daniel’s urging to not get involved, Gabriela cannot stay away from Livery and Still Waters Chasm—which puts her on a collision course with yet another murder and people who will stop at nothing to prevent her from getting too close to the truth that could destroy chasm.

‘The Collaborators’: A Tale of Ambition and Survival by Michael Idov

‘The Collaborators’ is the exciting new political and espionage thriller by Michael Idov. Photo: Amazon

Michael Idov is a novelist, director, and screenwriter. A Latvian-born American raised in Riga under Soviet occupation, he moved to New York after graduating from the University of Michigan. His new book “The Collaborators” is an electrifying, cutting-edge spy thriller featuring a brilliant young intelligence officer and a troubled heiress who stumble into a global conspiracy that pits Russia against the CIA. (Simon & Schuster, 2024)

“The Collaborators” –  Anton Basmanny is the Kremlin’s least favorite blogger with a bullseye on his back. He is aboard an airplane on the way to meet Ari Falk, a cynical CIA agent whose cover is to help Russian opposition journalists run stories that could be damaging to the Kremlin. Anton knows any day could be his last, so he isn’t too surprised when his flight is forced to land. He is detained in a cell along with a couple, an American and his wife, and when they are taken away and he hears two gunshots, he fears the worst. The man happened to be Russian American billionaire Paul Obrandt whose suicide later makes international headlines. Falk eventually crosses paths with LA heiress Maya Chou, a.k.a. Paul Obrandt’s daughter. Their globe-trotting adventures will not only put them in danger, but will reveal secrets neither one of them saw coming and will forever change Maya’s view of her father.

This novel is a gripping exploration of identity, loyalty, and the complexities of life in contemporary Russia. Idov skillfully combines personal and political narratives, creating a vivid backdrop that captures the tensions of life as an intelligence officer in an ever changing political landscape. The narrative is non-linear and the prose is both sharp and haunting, immersing readers in a chaotic atmosphere, where friendships can be as fragile as the truth. The deep character development adds depth to the narrative and the author’s ability to blend humor with darker themes provides a balanced and engaging read. Laced with wit, the dialogue provides a refreshing contrast to the underlying seriousness of Falk and Maya’s situation. One of the highlights is the intense car chase towards the end of Chapter 5 when they are being chased and every second counts as they race towards the US embassy.

Overall, “The Collaborators” is more than a thrilling espionage thriller, it’s a tale of survival and profound meditation on the human spirit’s resilience in the face of adversity. It’s a compelling must-read for anyone interested in the intersections of philosophy and politics. Idov’s work resonates powerfully, offering a poignant reminder of the complexities inherent in the human condition. Readers who enjoy similar works from Robert Ludlum, John le Carré, and Brad Thor will find it just as gripping.  

*The author received an ARC for an honest review. The views and opinions expressed here belong solely to her.

Rating: 4 out of 5.

Charif Majdalani’s Latest Novel: A Chronicle of the Rise and Fall of the Nassar Clan

‘A History of the Big House: A Novel’ is the new novel by Charif Majdalani. Photo: Other Press

Charif Majdalani was born in Lebanon in 1960 and is one of the most important figures in Lebanese literature today. After living in France for thirteen years, he returned to Lebanon in 1993 and now teaches French literature at the Université Saint-Joseph in Beirut. His novel “Moving the Palace” won the 2008 François Mauriac Prize from the Académie Française as well as the Prix Tropiques. His previous book “Beirut 2020: Diary of the Collapse” was published by Other Press in 2021. “A History of the Big House: A Novel,”his new novel, will be released on December 17, 2024. It is available for pre-order through Other Press. (Other Press, 2024)

From Charif Majdalani, one of the most important figures in Lebanese literature today, comes a sweeping family saga, “A History of the Big House: A Novel.” It chronicles the rise and fall of the Nassar clan, as they navigate the great events of the 20th century in Lebanon, from the Ottoman Empire to the French Mandate, following the various generations’ fight to keep and maintain their family house, and subsequent paths to exile.

At the end of the 19th century, a man is forced to flee his village after a quarrel. Starting over with nothing, the banished, audacious Wakim Nassar will create orange plantations on the outskirts of Beirut and become the head of a large clan, feared and respected. The great house he builds at their center will become a powerful symbol of the Nassars’ glory, admired from afar. The eponymous sits at the center of this grand novel, becoming its main character. Everyone and everything, from the Nassar family to the course of history, seems to evolve alongside this home. But this decadence is short-lived, battered by the First World War, illness, family tragedy, and the shifting regimes that control Lebanon. As circumstances compel Wakim’s descendants, one by one, to leave the house, it falls into ruin.

A rich saga, full of unforgettable characters and anchored in historical fact, perfect for fans of Hala Alyan’s atmospheric family stories, “A History of the Big House: A Novel” captures the unique experience of the Lebanese people through this family’s triumphs and struggles.

About the Translator: Ruth Diver holds a PhD in French and comparative literature from the University of Paris 8 and the University of Auckland, New Zealand. She won two 2018 French Voices Awards for her translations of Marx and the Doll by Maryam Madjidi, and Titus Did Not Love Berenice by Nathalie Azoulai. She also won Asymptote’s 2016 Close Approximations fiction prize for her translation of extracts of Maraudes by Sophie Pujas.

Advance Praise for ‘A History of the Big House‘: 

“This is what happens when poets write history; Majdalani weaves facts and dreams, the lives of men and nations, real and imagined, the smell of orange trees, of strong, black coffee on a Levantine morning—you can almost taste it. I could see that big house; I recognized it. This book took me home.”
—Yara Zgheib, author of No Land to Light On

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From Concept to Creation: A Conversation with Author Ashlee Vitz

Ashlee Vitz is the autor of the new YA novel ‘Amber Armitage and The Aztec Trials.’ Photo: Barnes & Noble

Ashlee Vitz is a teacher, actor, and writer from Indiana who discovered her Aztec heritage years after being adopted as an infant. She enjoys life in the Midwest with her husband and daughter, performs with Crossroads Repertory Theatre in the summers, and cherishes teaching her students at Center Grove High School. Her debut novel “Amber Armitage and The Aztec Trials” is a young adult fantasy adventure that takes readers on a fast-paced journey through ancient Aztec myths, family secrets, and self-discovery.

Interviewing an author is always an exciting experience. It offers a unique opportunity to ask about their creative process, explore the themes in their work, and uncover personal insights that often aren’t found in the books themselves. I love asking about their inspiration, challenges, and the journey that led to the creation of their latest project. This allows readers to connect deeper with the author and their work. Whether it’s debut authors or seasoned writers, each interview brings fresh perspectives, making it a rewarding experience for the author and my readers.

Last week I had the chance to ask Ashlee a few questions about her debut novel “Amber Armitage and The Aztec Trials.”

Sandra: What inspired you to write “Amber Armitage and The Aztec Trials”?
Ashlee: The common advice is to write what you know. Amber is an adopted girl from Indiana, and so am I. I met my maternal biological grandmother many years ago, but it was only a few years ago that she shared that I was the great-great-great-great-granddaughter of an Aztec chief. I knew nothing about Aztec society, and I thought writing this novel would be a great way to dive into research on that culture and finally make myself write a novel. Publishing my own fantasy work has been a dream of mine since childhood.

S: Can you share a little about the main character, Amber Armitage? What makes her unique?
A: Amber takes us on a journey of discovering what family really means. There isn’t a lot of work out there that has a young adult character leading us through this aspect of the coming-of-age story.

S: What challenges did Amber face during her trials, and how do they reflect her character development?
A: This is a hard question to answer without giving away any of the story! In general terms, much of what Amber has to endure requires her to take an extremely honest look at her life and herself. This is one of the hardest trials we all face. Amber is doing it in the heightened world of fantasy. Yet, just as we all grow in the real world when we understand ourselves better, that’s the kind of character development she undergoes as well.

S: Were there any specific themes or messages you wanted to convey through this book?
A: I want readers of this book to consider this question: What is family? I also want my readers to consider the complexities that come along with adoption for all parties involved.

S: How did your research process look when writing about the Aztec civilization?
A: That was a fascinating journey. I devoured several books and tried to find films on the topic. Film was much harder to find. I even came across a movie called Quetzalcoatl, but it ended up being a B-level horror film. It made me laugh a lot, but did not help me write the book! I did find several online history experts with interesting short videos, which were extremely helpful.

*Note: Quetzalcoatl is a highly revered god of the Aztecs. He plays an extremely important part in the novel.

S: What was the most surprising lesson you learned while writing this book?
A: Just like Amber, I met my biological mother during my first year of college. While writing this book and bringing each character to life, it was the first time I truly stepped into what it must’ve felt like for my mother when I met my biological mother. That was an excellent lesson in sympathy for me.

S: What role do supporting characters play in Amber’s journey and how do they influence her decisions?
A: Amber’s roommate, Kess, is both comic relief and her guide through much of Aztec culture. I hope readers love her as much as I do! In addition to Kess, Amber’s mother and her biological mother present her with many choices and their own advice, leaving it up to Amber to decide whom she’s going to listen to.

S: Do you have any plans for a sequel or further adventures for Amber Armitage?
A: Some of my favorite authors often say that their readers ask excellent questions that they hadn’t considered when beginning to write. So, if there are questions that I find intriguing, yes, I would love to address them in a sequel to this first story.

Thank you to Ashlee Vitz for taking the time to answer my questions. Fantasy novels centered around mythology and ancient civilizations are fascinating, especially when the protagonist is out to learn more about her family history. Such is the case in this book.

Read more about the Aztec culture: Aztec Civilization and History: Aztecs.

You can read my review of “Amber Armitage and The Aztec Trials” and get your own copy here.

What are your thoughts on ancient civilizations such as the Aztec? Have you used any DNA testing site as a tool to finding relatives?  Was it a positive or negative experience?

‘Memorials:’ The Haunting Must-Read New Horror Novel by Richard Chizmar

‘Memorials’ is the new horror novel by Richard Chizmar. Photo: Barnes & Noble

Horror novels captivate readers by tapping into deep-seated fears and the unknown, offering a thrilling escape from reality. They engage the imagination, inviting readers to confront the darker aspects of human nature, often exploring themes of mortality, isolation, and the supernatural. The suspenseful plots, eerie atmospheres, and unexpected twists keep readers on edge, fostering a sense of catharsis through the release of tension. They provide a safe space for exploring fear, allowing readers to experience adrenaline-pumping emotions without real danger. This blend of psychological intrigue and visceral excitement is what makes horror fiction so irresistibly compelling.

I love horror novels and have been reading them since elementary school. There’s a new horror novel out by Richard Chizmar, “Memorials,” that has been getting rave reviews, especially from Stephen King.

“Scary and hard to put down. You might be advised not to read it at night.”
—Stephen King

Richard Chizmar is the coauthor (with Stephen King) of the New York Times bestselling novella Gwendy’s Button Box and “Gwendy’s Final Task,” and the solo novella Gwendy’s Magic Feather. Recent books include the New York Times bestsellers “Becoming the Boogeyman” and “Chasing the Boogeyman,” “The Girl on the Porch,” “The Long Way Home,” his fourth short story collection, and Widow’s Point, a chilling tale about a haunted lighthouse co-written with his son Billy Chizmar, which was recently made into a feature film. His short fiction has appeared in dozens of publications, including Ellery Queen Mystery Magazine and The Year’s 25 Finest Crime and Mystery Stories. He has won two World Fantasy awards, four International Horror Guild awards, and the HWA’s Board of Trustees award. Chizmar’s work has been translated into more than fifteen languages throughout the world, and he has appeared at numerous conferences as a writing instructor, speaker, panelist, and guest of honor.

“Memorials” – 1983: Three students from a small college embark on a week-long road trip to film a documentary on roadside memorials for their American Studies class. The project starts out as a fun adventure with long stretches of empty road and nightly campfires where they begin to open up with one another.

But as they venture deeper into the Appalachian backwoods, the atmosphere begins to darken. They notice more and more of the memorials feature a strange, unsettling symbol hinting at a sinister secret. Paranoia sets in when it appears they are being followed. Their vehicle is tampered with overnight and some of the locals appear to be anything but welcoming. Before long, the students can’t help but wonder if these roadside deaths were really random accidents…or is something terrifying at work here?

Ancient Secrets, Modern Heroine: A Review of ‘Amber Armitage and The Aztec Trials’

‘Amber Armitage and The Aztec Trials’ is the debut YA novel by Ashlee Vitz. Photo: Barnes & Noble.

Ashlee Vitz is a teacher, actor, and writer from Indiana who discovered her Aztec heritage years after being adopted as an infant. This experience was the inspiration that led her to write “Amber Armitage and the Aztec Trials,” her debut novel. She enjoys life in the Midwest with her husband and daughter, performs with Crossroads Repertory Theatre in the summers, and cherishes teaching her students at Center Grove High School. Her debut novel “Amber Armitage and The Aztec Trials” is a young adult fantasy adventure that takes readers on a fast-paced journey through ancient Aztec myths, family secrets, and self-discovery. (Amazon, 2024)

“Amber Armitage and The Aztec Trials” – Amber, an 18-year-old adopted girl from Indiana, discovers her true Aztec heritage through a DNA test that leads her on a thrilling, mystical journey. Raised in a loving home, Amber always sensed something more beneath the surface of her ordinary life. Her world is turned upside down when she meets her biological mother and learns of her connection to the ancient Aztec god Quetzalcoatl. With her newfound powers, Amber must face challenges that blend reality with mythology, uncovering secrets of the past that could change her future forever. Will Amber embrace her heritage in time to stop the resurrection of an ancient power, or will her world fall under the shadow of the Aztec gods?

Review:

“Amber Armitage and The Aztec Trials” by Ashlee Vitz is a captivating blend of adventure and mythology that follows the spirited Amber Armitage on her quest to discover the mysteries of her family background and her link to the ancient Aztec world. Her journey of self discovery leads to a series of trials that test her courage and intellect.

Vitz’s storytelling is vivid and immersive, bringing the culture and history of the Aztecs to life, while the prose is descriptive and poetic: “…all sporting an image of some kind of creature, most of them with their teeth bared, as though they were only moments away from popping off the wall to make the onlooker their last meal.” The narrative is fast-paced, with each trial presenting new challenges that keep readers engaged.

Amber is a relatable protagonist. Her growth throughout the story is inspiring and authentic as she learns the importance of family, friendship, resilience, and embracing her heritage. The supporting characters are well-developed, add richness to the story, and complement Amber’s journey. Vitz skillfully weaves in themes of bravery and self-discovery, making the novel resonate with a wide audience.

Overall, “Amber Armitage and The Aztec Trials” is an enchanting read that will appeal to young  readers and fans of adventure alike. It explores the intersection of personal identity and ancient history and is recommended for fans of YA fantasy, mythology, and coming-of-age stories.

“He would never know it, but his words made a young woman in the woods cry with gratitude that night, and where her tears fell, dead orange and red leaves turned bright green with new-found life.”

Rating: 5 out of 5.

A Beacon of Hope: Exploring Trevor Dutcher’s ‘The Keepers of the Light’

‘The Keepers of the Light’ is the exciting new YA magical fantasy novel by Trevor A. Dutcher. Photo: Amazon

Fantasy books for young readers open up magical worlds filled with adventure, friendship, and imagination. These stories often feature brave heroes, mythical creatures, and enchanted realms, inviting children to explore their creativity. Popular series like “Harry Potter” and “Percy Jackson” not only entertain but also teach valuable lessons about courage, loyalty, and resilience. Fantasy encourages readers to dream big, confront challenges, and embrace their unique identities. With vibrant descriptions and engaging plots, these books ignite a love for reading and inspire young minds to embark on their own fantastical journeys. Ultimately, they foster a sense of wonder and possibility in every child.

This month, there’s a new fantasy book coming by Trevor A. Dutcher – “The Keepers of the Light (Logan LeVec Book 1) – “What if an entire world depended on you to preserve their very existence?”

Trevor A. Dutcher is a practicing attorney who writes fiction for fun. “Michael McGillicuddy and the Most Amazing Race” was his debut novel with many more in the works. “The Keepers of the Light” is his new YA novel and will be released on October 27, 2024. It is available for pre-order on Amazon.

Review:
Logan LeVec is a normal, well adjusted twelve year old. He lives with his parents and his older brother Bryce, who loves to torment him, and has a close relationship with his grandfather Gideon. Gideon is always entertaining him with outlandish fantasy stories and this worries Logan’s mother because she fears Gideon is losing his grip on reality. When Gideon passes away, Logan discovers that the stories were all true and meant to be a form of training to prepare him for his higher purpose, to become a Keeper of the Light.

With the help of Muggins the Elementalist, and Ginny the girl next door, Logan enters Cameria through a magic portal in a tree. Cameria is a magical place but it is under attack because Karma is stealing the Light; she is vengeful and wants to destroy Cameria. To be able to help, Logan must be anointed a Keeper of the Light, defeat Karma and release the Light in order to return Cameria to its original glory. No pressure there. If he fails, Cameria will be lost forever. One of Karma’s weapons is an enchanted mirror she uses to force people to “reflect” on their wrongdoings. With Muggins and Ginny by his side, Logan must defeat Karma and her army of dissenters before the darkness overwhelms Cameria and all the goodness disappears for good.

“The Keepers of the Light” by Trevor Dutcher is a fascinating blend of adventure and personal growth set against a richly imagined setting. The story follows an unlikely hero tasked with picking up where his grandfather left off and save a world threatened by darkness and evil.

Dutcher’s prose is rich and descriptive, drawing readers into a vivid landscape filled with compelling characters and intricate folklore. The world-building in Cameria is impressive; the author creates an intricate mythology that feels original and timeless. The pacing is well-balanced, maintaining tension and excitement while allowing for moments of self-reflection. Underlying the fantasy aspect, there’s also courage, sacrifice, and the enduring power of hope. Each character is well-developed, especially Muggins and the different regions of Cameria, giving them unique strengths and vulnerabilities that make them relatable. The first person narrative immerses readers into Logan’s innermost thoughts and struggles. While exploring the themes of friendship and good versus evil, it illustrates how diverse individuals can come together for a common cause regardless of background.

Overall, “The Keepers of the Light” is a captivating coming of age fantasy story with exciting settings and characters. Even though it’s a young adult novel, it’s entertaining for all ages and the imaginative storytelling keeps readers immersed in the adventures of Logan and Ginny. It is an easy read and is recommended for fans of fantasy and adventure with likeable characters. Since this is Book 1, I’m sure there are more to come, making this the beginning of an exciting series.

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

Rating: 5 out of 5.
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Poetry and Soul: What to Expect from Ben Okri’s ‘Wild: Poems’

‘Wild: Poems’ is a stunning new poetry collection by Ben Okri. Photo: Amazon

Poetry captures fleeting moments, distills complex feelings, and offers a voice to the unspoken. Each poem is a unique exploration of life, love, loss, and beauty, inviting readers to experience the world through different lenses. With its playful use of language, poetry can provoke thought, inspire change, or simply provide solace. Whether through sonnets, haikus, or free verse, poets craft their truths, creating connections that transcend time and culture, reminding us of our shared humanity. It serves as a vital outlet for self-expression, allowing individuals to articulate their innermost thoughts and emotions.

In a world that often silences voices, poetry provides a platform for authenticity and vulnerability. It helps us process experiences, whether joyful or painful, fostering healing and understanding. Through imagery and metaphor, poets can convey complex ideas and emotions in ways that resonate deeply with others. This connection can spark empathy and inspire change, encouraging readers to reflect on their own lives. Ultimately, poetry empowers individuals to embrace their unique perspectives, cultivating a richer, more diverse tapestry of human experience.

For poetry fans, I’d like to highlight a poetry collection by Ben Okri, “Wild: Poems” that will be released this month.

Ben Okri is a playwright, poet, novelist, essayist, short-story writer, anthologist, and aphorist. He has also written film scripts. His works have won numerous national and international prizes, including the Booker Prize for Fiction. His books include the eco-fable “Every Leaf a Hallelujah,” the play Changing Destiny, the genre-bending climate fiction “Tiger Work,” the poetry collections “A Fire in My Head” and “Mental Fight,” and the novels “Astonishing the Gods,” “The Last Gift of the Master Artists,” and “Dangerous Love.” In 2023 he received a knighthood for services to literature. His latest book “Wild: Poems” will be released on October 22, 2024 and is available for pre-order through Other Press. (Other Press, 2024)

“Wild: Poems” – is a rich, joyful anthology of poems on living and loving from the Booker Prize–winning Ben Okri, who recently received knighthood for his services to literature.

Freedom is the most precious commodity in the world. In this powerful collection, the celebrated Okri explores the beauty contained in each one of us—the freedom of our spirit, the child within. He recalls the death of his father, the sacrifices of his mother, the hidden river of Edinburgh, falling in love. He writes about Virgil and Mozambique, about ringing the bell for freedom, the dreams of Calliope and the full moon. He enters the fifth circle, sings of the roses of spring, and aligns the pyramids to the magic stars.

Okri’s shape-shifting depth and dynamism as an artist and thinker is on full display in “Wild.” Echoing Okri’s other recent publications “Tiger Work” and “A Fire in My Head,” “Wild” continues the partnership between the poet, playwright, and novelist and Other Press and continues to cement Okri’s irreplaceable contribution to the larger cultural conversation.

Recent praise for Ben Okri

“The poems collected in ‘A Fire in My Head’ exhibit a decidedly sharpened political edge, too. There are reflections on Boko Haram, the plight of the Rohingya and the death of George Floyd.”
—NEW YORK TIMES

“A master storyteller, Okri prompts readers to reflect on the mistakes of the past and consider the ways in which they are repeated. As ever, Okri channels a voice well worth listening to.”
—PUBLISHERS WEEKLY

“Ben Okri is that rare thing, a literary and social visionary, a writer for whom all three—literature, culture, and vision—are profoundly interwoven.”
—Ali Smith

“Ben Okri is talking about Africa . . . The collection brings together many of Okri’s most critically acclaimed and politically charged poems . . .”
—THE AFRICA REPORT

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‘Wild: Poems’ Release Date