Tag: new books

Layers of Emotion in ‘The Bella Vista’: Emma Ruth Rundle’s Poetic Journey

Emma Ruth Rundle announces her debut poetry book “The Bella Vista.” Courtesy photo, used with permission.

Poetry books offer a powerful blend of emotion, imagination, and expression in concise, rhythmic forms. They invite readers into intimate worlds where language dances and meanings are layered, offering both intellectual stimulation and emotional resonance. The beauty of poetry lies in its ability to distill complex experiences into few words, allowing for deep reflection and personal interpretation. Whether through vivid imagery, striking metaphors, or simple truths, poetry books captivate readers by fostering a sense of connection to universal themes, emotions, and the human condition, making them timeless treasures.

There’s a new poetry book coming out February 11, 2025 by Emma Ruth Rundle – “The Bella Vista.”

“rip up this book, my love / i wrote it for you” So opens Emma Ruth Rundle’s book of poetry, entitled “The Bella Vista.” The multidisciplinary visual artist and musician has now released six solo albums over the past decade to commercial and critical acclaim. The release of “The Bella Vista” will mark her literary debut. (another side, 2024)

With “The Bella Vista,” Emma Ruth Rundle turns to language as the best and perhaps only tool suitable to express, in her words, “the tenderness and brutality of romantic love.” The collection of poetry is a concept, an addiction memoir, a family tree, and a love letter all at once—to music, mistakes, and humanity; to cross-country drives and other artists and the long road to finding oneself.

“Written on the road over the course of a year, ‘The Bella Vista’ is equal parts travel-log, love story and journal of dark existential reflection. It is what I have spent the last two years of my creative life working on and I am both relieved and excited to finally be sharing it.”- Emma Ruth Rundle

“The Bella Vista” will be published by Unnamed Press and available at bookstores and online on February 11, 2025 – pre-order here. To coincide with the book, Rundle will release a limited edition audio album consisting of minimalistic, contemplative piano sketches à la Harold Budd of whom the book was named in honor of, and was highly influential to “The Bella Vista.” Copies will be limited to 300 and available in a signed first edition hardcover + exclusive vinyl bundle here.

Early praise for “The Bella Vista”

“Emma Ruth Rundle’s debut collection of poems, The Bella Vista, is a gorgeous, fierce, and devastating account of romantic love. Rundle has found a new form for her prodigious lyrical gifts; here is a lucid and haunting collection that moves with a kind of dream logic to ‘summon the unseen.’” – Deborah Landau, author or Skeletons and Soft Targets

“Emma Ruth Rundle’s The Bella Vista is more than a poetry collection—it’s a memoir charted by stars, an autobiographical scrapbook and lyrical compass that helps us navigate our everyday lives through its wisdom, beauty, and fingerprint specificity.” – Brandon Stosuy, author of Sad Happens and the Make Time for Creativity series

1739266453

  days

  hours  minutes  seconds

until

‘The Bella Vista’ release date

‘The Serviceberry Way’: Lessons in Self-Discovery and Connection

Learn how the serviceberry can guide you towards growth and gratitude in the new book by Kim Lewitt. Photo: Amazon.

Serviceberry (Amelanchier spp.) is a small deciduous tree or shrub known for its sweet, edible berries. Rich in antioxidants, vitamins A, C, and K, it supports immune health and skin repair. The berries have anti-inflammatory properties, which may help reduce the risk of chronic diseases such as heart disease and diabetes. Additionally, serviceberries are a good source of dietary fiber, aiding digestion and promoting gut health. Native to North America, serviceberry also provides various ecological benefits, attracting pollinators like bees and birds. Its leaves, bark, and roots have been traditionally used for medicinal purposes by indigenous peoples.

“The Serviceberry Way: Gratitude, Growth, and DIY Practices for Everyday Living” is the new book by Kim Lewitt where she writes all about its uses for health and better living.

It is a comprehensive and enlightening guide to the often-overlooked serviceberry plant. Through this book, Lewitt introduces readers to the rich history, versatility, and numerous benefits of the serviceberry, making a compelling case for its place in gardens and landscapes.

It is divided into sections that explore the plant’s history, from its use by Indigenous peoples for food and medicine, to its growing popularity in modern gardening. Lewitt provides an in-depth look at how to cultivate serviceberries, offering practical advice on planting, caring for, and harvesting this hardy shrub. The author emphasizes the plant’s adaptability to various climates and its ability to thrive in a wide range of conditions, making it a sustainable choice for gardeners.

There are two major parts:

Part One: Lessons from Nature
Includes sections such as The Hidden Life of Plants, The Wisdom of Animals, and The Indigenous Perspective: Connection and Community.

Part Two: DIY Practices
Includes sections such as Preparing Your Garden for Serviceberries, Pest and Disease Management, and Cooking with Serviceberries: Recipes and Ideas.

Highlights include:

Part One: Lessons from Nature
Lessons from the Serviceberry: Adaptability and Resilience – it explains the characteristics of the serviceberry and the lessons it teaches us, like Thriving in Diverse Environments and Rapid Recovery and Renewal.

Part Two: DIY Practices
Crafting with Serviceberries and Other Uses – it shares uses for serviceberries beyond the usual jams and pies, such as making natural dyes and other craft ideas.

A big plus for me is the celebration of the many uses of the plant. Lewitt covers everything from incorporating the berries into delicious jams and pies to using the tree’s wood for crafting. The book serves as both a practical gardening resource and a celebration of the serviceberry’s cultural significance.

Overall, for plant enthusiasts, gardeners, and anyone interested in sustainable living, “The Serviceberry Way” is an invaluable resource that highlights the enduring charm and utility of this underrated plant.

“Adaptability is about finding ways to thrive in less-than-ideal circumstances. Just as the serviceberry makes the most of the resources it has, we can learn to be flexible, assess our surroundings, and use what’s available to us creatively and efficiently.”

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

Rating: 5 out of 5.

A Journey of Inspiration: The Compelling Message of ‘Faith Ignited’

‘Faith Ignited’ is Robert Moment’s new devotional book. Photo: Amazon.

Robert Moment, an ICF Certified Leadership and Executive Coach and Peak Performance Expert, is passionate about helping people discover their God-given potential. With over 15 years of coaching experience and 20+ years in Fortune 500 leadership, Robert specializes in guiding individuals to overcome challenges through unwavering faith and resilience. His other books include “High Performing Teams” and “CEO Leadership Mastery,” and he is dedicated to helping others live out God’s purpose in their lives. His latest book “Faith Ignited: Unbreakable Spirit-Overcoming Life’s Hardships and Rising Stronger Through God’s Grace” is an inspirational Christian guide designed to help you embrace God’s strength, build unwavering faith, and find resilience even in the most difficult times. (Amazon, 2024)

“Faith Ignited” – Whether you’re navigating emotional pain, career setbacks, or personal struggles, this book offers biblical principles and actionable strategies to help you overcome and thrive. Through each chapter, you’ll deepen your relationship with God, explore His purpose for your life, and learn how to transform challenges into powerful stepping stones toward spiritual and personal growth. With devotionals for women and devotionals for men, this guide provides the inspiration you need to rise above adversity.

Discover how unwavering faith empowers you to face adversity head-on and emerge stronger.

  • Mental Toughness Through Scripture
  • Forgiveness and Healing from Hurt:
  • Turn Setbacks into Stepping Stones
  • Mastering Peak Performance
  • The Power of Prayer in Adversity

Review:
This guidebook is an inspiring exploration of resilience and personal transformation. Moment emphasizes the power of faith in overcoming adversity and offers practical advice to get through life’s ups and downs, making it accessible for a wide audience. His reflections on challenges—be they personal, professional, or spiritual—serve as a guiding light for those seeking motivation. He encourages readers to harness their inner strength and believe in their potential, fostering a sense of hope and empowerment. In the Introduction, he writes that this book “…is your roadmap to not just surviving life’s challenges but thriving in the midst of them.”

Chapters include:
Introduction – Igniting Faith in the Midst of Adversity
Chapter 1 – Faith Ignited
Chapter 2 – The Power of Mental Toughness
Chapter 3 – Resilience Through Pain and Hurt
Chapter 4 – Adversity as a Teacher
Chapter 5 – Bounce Back Strategies
Chapter 6 – Mastering Peak Performance
Chapter 7 – The Power of Prayer in Adversity
Chapter 8 – Mental Strategies for Well-being
Chapter 9 – The Unbreakable Spirit
Chapter 10 – Overcoming Career Setbacks
Chapter 11 – Unlocking Your Full Potential
Chapter 12 – Building Your Legacy
Conclusion – Faith Ignited

Each chapter begins with a relevant bible verse and ends with a list of Coaching Questions to help readers think about what they just read and apply it to their personal lives.

Highlights:

Chapter 2 – where he explains how “techniques such as deep breathing and mindfulness can help calm the chaos within” and help us develop mental toughness. He also focuses on positive self talk as a way to create a healthier mindset by identifying negative thoughts and visualizing success.

Chapter 6 – the biggest take is on developing healthy habits such as morning rituals, balanced nutrition, and adequate rest. Small steps add up, and it takes time to develop a healthier lifestyle, so it’s best to be patient and consistent.

The writing style is straightforward yet engaging, making complex concepts easy to grasp. Moment’s emphasis on community and support further enriches the narrative, reminding us that we are not alone in our struggles. The language is compelling and relatable, drawing readers in from the beginning. As a quick and easy read, it can easily be read in one sitting and is an excellent reference for frequent use.

Overall, “Faith Ignited: Unbreakable Spirit – Overcoming Life’s Hardships and Rising Stronger Through God’s Grace” is a must-read for these challenging times. The authenticity of Moment’s voice and his firm optimism make this an outstanding devotional. It’s a call to action for anyone facing difficulties and a reminder that with faith and determination, we can ignite our own unbreakable spirit. It is highly recommended for readers looking for encouragement and inspiration from a Christian faith-based perspective.

“You were not created to stay broken. Within you lies an unbreakable spirit, a reservoir of strength and resilience that is waiting to be awakened.”

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

Rating: 5 out of 5.

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

1736867121

  days

  hours  minutes  seconds

until

‘Andromeda’ release date

‘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

1734443038

  days

  hours  minutes  seconds

until

‘A History of the Big House’ release date

Dean Koontz’ Latest Masterpiece: ‘The Forest of Lost Souls’

‘The Forest of Lost Souls’ by Dean Koontz. Photo: Amazon

I have been a fan of Dean Koontz’ books for years because of their unique blend of suspense, horror, and philosophical depth. The characters usually face extraordinary challenges, navigating a world filled with malevolent forces and moral dilemmas. He often explores the themes of love, loyalty, and the battle between good and evil and his ability to weave humor and warmth into tense narratives adds an engaging layer, make his books thrilling and emotional. That’s why I’m so excited for his newest book “The Forest of Lost Souls” and can’t wait to read it for myself.

International bestselling author Dean Koontz was only a senior in college when he won an Atlantic Monthly fiction competition and he hasn’t stopped writing since. He is the author of “The Bad Weather Friend,” “After Death,” “The House at the End of the World,” “The Big Dark Sky,” and seventy-nine New York Times best sellers. Hailed by Rolling Stone as “America’s most popular suspense novelist,” his books have been published in thirty-eight languages and have sold over five hundred million copies worldwide. In his new book “The Forest of Lost Souls,” a fearless woman, raised in the forest, fights against a group of powerful men in a novel about good versus evil, the enduring nature of myth, and the power of love.

“The Forest of Lost Souls” – Raised in the wilderness by her late great-uncle, Vida is a young woman with an almost preternatural affinity for nature, especially for the wolves that also call the forested mountains home. Formed by hard experience, by love and loss, and by the prophecies of a fortune teller, Vida just wants peace. If only nearby Kettleton County didn’t cast such a dark shadow.

It’s where José Nochelobo, the love of Vida’s life and a cherished local hero, died in a tragic accident. That’s the official story, but Vida has reasons to doubt it. The truth can’t be contained for long. Nor can the hungry men of power in Kettleton who want something too: that Vida, like José, disappear forever. One by one they come for her, prepared to do anything to see their plans through to their evil end. Vida is no less prepared for them.

Vida, the forest, and its formidable wonders are waiting. She will not rest until goodness and order have been restored.

Exploring the Intersection of Science and Spirituality in ‘The Miraculous from the Material’

Alan Lightman’s new book ‘The Miraculous from the Material: Understanding the Wonders of Nature’ will be out November 19, 2024. Photo: Amazon.

Books about science and the wonders of the natural world captivate readers with the marvels of the cosmos and the awe-inspiring phenomena of nature. They unravel the mysteries of celestial bodies and open our eyes to the intricate beauty of the world around us. Through engaging narratives and stunning illustrations, these books inspire wonder and curiosity, encouraging us to explore the science behind the beauty that surrounds us, both above and below.

For readers who enjoy books about nature, photography, and science, there’s a new book coming out next month by Alan Lightman that is worth noting.

Alan Lightman earned his PhD in physics from the California Institute of Technology and is the author of seven novels, including the international best seller “Einstein’s Dreams” and “The Diagnosis,” a finalist for the National Book Award. His nonfiction includes “The Transcendental Brain,” “The Accidental Universe,” “Searching for Stars on an Island in Maine,” and “Probable Impossibilities.” He has taught at Harvard and at MIT, where he was the first person to receive a dual faculty appointment in science and the humanities. He is currently a professor of the practice of the humanities at MIT. He is the host of the public television series Searching: Our Quest for Meaning in the Age of Science.

His new book “The Miraculous From the Material: Understanding the Wonders of Nature” is an illustrated exploration of the science behind the universe’s most stunning natural phenomena—from atoms and parameciums to rainbows, snowflakes, spider webs, the rings of Saturn, galaxies, and more. It will be released on November 19, 2024 and is available for pre-order on Amazon. (Penguin Random House, 2024)

“The Miraculous From the Material: Understanding the Wonders of Nature” – Nature is capable of extraordinary phenomena. Standing in awe of those phenomena, we experience a feeling of connection to the cosmos. For acclaimed physicist and novelist Alan Lightman, just as remarkable is that all of what we see around us—soap bubbles, scarlet ibises, shooting stars—are made out of the same material stuff and obey the same rules and laws. This is what Lightman calls “spiritual materialism,” the belief that we can embrace spiritual experiences without letting go of our scientific worldview.

Pairing 36 beautiful, full-color photos evoking some of nature’s most awe-inspiring phenomena with accessible and lyrical personal essays, “The Miraculous from the Material” explores the fascinating science underlying the natural world. Why do rainbows make an arc? Why does a particular waterfall at Yosemite National Park sometimes glow like it’s on fire? How does a hummingbird fly? The world has so many things to marvel at—and the science is just as fascinating.

Lightman’s imagination travels from the world of atoms and molecules to the animal kingdom, from places like Ha Long Bay, Vietnam and the Grand Canyon out to the solar system and beyond, illuminating the majesty of the cosmos and the remarkable science behind it. “The Miraculous from the Material” is a stunning, soaring ode to the beauty and wonder around us, and the perfect holiday gift for photography aficionados, life-long learners, and admirers of the natural world.

1732015806

  days

  hours  minutes  seconds

until

‘The Miraculous from the Material’ release date

Whataburger Announces Book and Puzzle Collection for the Whole Family

The nationally distributed collection features coloring books, puzzles, and drawing lessons. Photo: Whataburger, used with permission.

San Antonio –– Whataburger® lovers can now display their passion for the iconic brand on their bookshelves with the release of the fast food chain’s first-ever nationally distributed book and puzzle collection. The books launch on October 22 and the puzzle drops on November 12. Both will be available for purchase wherever books are sold and online. (Whataburger, 2024)

This one-of-a-kind collection offers Fans of all ages the opportunity to savor Whataburger’s charm long after their meal.

  • “Whatababy”: A first-word board book designed for the smallest fries in the family.
  • “How to Draw Everything Whataburger”: Budding artists can follow 40-plus drawing lessons designed by Texas-based artist Alli Koch of Alli K Design, bringing Whataburger’s iconic imagery to life.
  • “WhataWorld”: A coloring book where nostalgia meets futurism, perfect for adults looking to unwind. Koch also designed this dazzling book.
  • “Whataburger Fancy Ketchup Puzzle”: A San Antonio-inspired puzzle creatively packaged in an oversized version of the brand’s famous ketchup container.

This unique collection celebrates Whataburger’s long-standing tradition of inspiring creativity, as seen in the Whataburger Museum of Art (WMOA). It extends that love to superfans who can now sketch, color and puzzle their way through their favorite burger chain’s culture.

With Penguin Random House’s industry-leading distribution and Blue Star Press’ innovative publishing approach, Whataburger’s first book and puzzle collection should be a holiday hit and a permanent fixture in homes coast to coast.

Whataburger serves up Goodness 24/7. Our original recipes are made to order, just like you like it, and we pride ourselves on extraordinary hospitality and meaningful connections in our communities. That’s what’s led fans to Whataburger since Harmon Dobson served our first customer in 1950. Headquartered in San Antonio, we’ve stayed close to our roots while building systemwide revenue of more than $4 billion annually across our 16-state footprint and over 1,050 restaurants. Shop Whataburger-branded merchandise and selected sauces, including our famous Fancy and Spicy Ketchup, online. Find Whataburger original-recipe products in grocery stores.

Blue Star Press is an award-winning independent publisher based in Bend, Oregon. Established in 2015, Blue Star Press is a team of industry outsiders who love to think creatively, push boundaries and reimagine what’s possible with books, games and gift products.

Whataburger Fancy Ketchup Puzzle. Photo: Whataburger, used with permission.

Wisdom in Action: How ‘The Potentialist: The Pursuit of Wisdom’ Inspires Personal Growth

‘The Pursuit of Wisdom’ is book 2 in The Potentialist series by Ben Lytle. Photo: Amazon

Books about personal transformation and growth offer profound insights and strategies for individuals seeking to change their lives. These books often explore themes like self-discovery, resilience, and growth, providing readers with tools to overcome obstacles and achieve their goals. Authors share personal stories, research findings, and practical exercises that inspire action and reflection. By engaging with these texts, individuals can gain clarity, motivation, and a renewed sense of purpose, ultimately leading to a more fulfilling and authentic life.

There’s a new one out this month by Ben Lytle, author of The Potentialist series. In his second book, “The Pursuit of Wisdom,” he writes about wisdom, how to attain it, and the potential that exists in everyone, just waiting to be released.

Ben Lytle is a serial entrepreneur and health-care innovator known for being ahead of the curve. He launched five successful companies, including two on the New York Stock Exchange. The best known is Anthem, one of three leading U.S. health plans with a market capitalization placing it in the top 30 of the Fortune 500. He also founded Acordia, Inc., which became the world’s 7th largest insurance broker. (Meryl Moss Media, 2024)

Lytle’s devotion to individual and collective human potential through accelerated wisdom guides his writing, speaking, entrepreneurial energy, and investments. He believes people and organizations today underestimate the extent and speed with which the world will change. Time to adapt and prepare is being compressed, opportunities are being missed, and there will be unnecessary suffering unless prompt action is taken.

He is the author of the series The Potentialist, which includes Your Future in the New Reality of the Next Thirty Years, The Pursuit of Wisdom, and a third installment to come. The series is intended as a guidebook for success during the fast-changing, turbulent, and opportunity-rich times ahead — named The Fourth Industrial Revolution by the World Economic Forum. The newest one, “The Pursuit of Wisdom” is available now.

“The Potentialist: The Pursuit of Wisdom” –
Wisdom and potential are our ideal adaptive responses for these challenging times. Five converging forces are creating a new twenty-first century reality defined by unavoidable life-altering changes and unprecedented decisions. We are anxious and overwhelmed as the world and our lives change faster than we can comprehend and adapt. The old ways of adapting aren’t working because complex changes and decisions are coming at us too fast. In this New Reality, the wise will thrive, and the unprepared will be left frightened and confused.

This groundbreaking book by Ben Lytle—Fortune 500 CEO, entrepreneur, and author—demystifies human potential and wisdom to make them attainable to all who seek their best. He predicts that technological advances and changes in social norms will make wisdom development urgent, but easier. His practical knowledge and straightforward language provide clarity, fresh perspectives, and proven practices that seamlessly integrate with daily life.

This highly anticipated second installment of The Potentialist series takes you on an uplifting journey to unleash your potential and accelerate decision-making wisdom during this period of the greatest change in human history.

Will you seize your potential and become wise to adapt and succeed in these turbulent, opportunity-rich times? If not, what’s your plan?