In the August 17 issue of the Review, the political theorist Adom Getachew writes about Howard French’s Born in Blackness, a radical reexamination of the importance of Africa and Africans to Western history. As French writes, the European exploitation of the continent and its peoples went hand in hand with the willful erasure of African […]
Original source: https://www.nybooks.com/online/2023/08/12/historys-presence-adom-getachew/
The Blood Inheritance Novels Series Two-Book Set: Endow and Resist follows the journey of three friends as they make a dangerous trip through the realms. What was the inspiration for the setup of your story?
I have loved to write for as long as I can remember and although I can’t recall what exactly what inspired the Blood Inheritance Quartet, I believe one major influence was a paperback which I received called of Legends of the Fire Spirits: Jinn and Genies from Arabia to Zanzibar by Robert Lebling. Shortly after that, I began developing stories around the fictitious world of Sumir, in which the Blood Inheritance Quartet takes place. Like many legends, I find the mythology pertaining to Jinn and Genies fascinating and when creating the unique mythology for the world of Sumir, the Jinn were the main focus to start with. From there the idea continued to grow and before I knew it, I had planned a series.
What were the morals you were trying to capture while creating your characters?
The situations in these books may be fictitious and take place in a fantasy world, but the self-questioning that occurs and the doubt, those are things we face every day. I like to say that the protagonists do the best they can with the information that they are given and have found out, especially as they learn and accept more about themselves and each other.
Regarding these heroines especially, I wanted them to be strong and believable characters that held different behaviors, ideas, and moral beliefs, and I strove to maintain their differences in order to show the distinct ways each young woman thinks.
What were some themes that were important for you to explore in this book?
Some of the themes that I felt were important to explore were: BETRAYAL, LOSS, FEAR, SURVIVAL, COURAGE, HEROISM, DISCOVERY, POWER, MAGIC, ISOLATION, ACCEPTANCE, IDENTITY, and MORAL DILEMMA.
I hope the series continues in other books. If so, where will the story take readers?
I have a lot of ideas for the world of Sumir, but in regard to the main characters in this series, I would like to explore what would happen if Amanda came face to face with the guardian that she trapped in the space between the realms. The truth is, I am already working on a few short stories that take place in this fictional world. My hope is to include them in my next short story collection.
Author Links: GoodReads | Twitter | Facebook | Website
Experience the epic fantasy in book three Endow: A Blood Inheritance Novel
Picking up where Lost ended, Endow takes Emily, Amanda, and Kiami on a dangerous trip through the realms. Amanda is determined to prove that the stones they were given are the very ones from the ancient myth. To do so she may have to divulge a few of her dark secrets.
The fate of Sumir is sealed forever in book four–Resist: A Blood Inheritance Novel.
With the end at hand, Amanda seeks redemption. But the myths of Sumir are only half-truths, and the layers of deception go deeper than she ever imagined. After an unknown ally tips her off, completing the puzzle, a bargain is struck, and it’s a race against time.
Once the half-bloods are united, the celestial will come at them with everything he has…
Included short Stories:
Bavmorda Part One: The Journey
Bavmorda Part Two: Lessons
Original source: https://literarytitan.com/2023/08/12/unique-mythology/
The Mystery of the Ball Python follows a snake-loving girl who discovers a ball python at a construction site and uses this experience to help educate her friends about snakes. What was the inspiration for your story?
Snakes are often misidentified and misunderstood, and frankly, I used to be afraid of them. The more I learned about snakes including how to identify the various local species, the less fearful I became. I got the idea for the series when my daughter and I went exploring a creek with friends, and we discovered several nonvenomous water snakes that a Snake ID group helped confirm. Seeing the girls so curious was a huge inspiration as was the content covered in the Snake ID group. Given the popularity of ball pythons as pets (and how they are occasionally found out in the wild due to escaping or being dumped), I knew I wanted to write a story centered around one.
What were some educational aspects that were important for you to include in this children’s book?
In The Mystery of the Ball Python, I especially wanted to write about the responsibility of pet ownership. I’m thankful a snake expert reviewed the story to make sure it addresses the proper care and keeping of ball pythons in particular.
When researching ball pythons for this story, what was the most interesting fact you discovered?
Goodness, there are so many interesting facts, though I was most surprised to learn that ball pythons can have, umm, loud flatus.
What is the next book with Naomi that you are working on, and when will it be available?
Naomi Nash: The Drama Noodle was recently released. Naomi, Emma, and Taylor are heading to drama camp, but the drama doesn’t stay at camp. Word is spreading about the snake-saving club, and when a local news crew asks to interview the club, things grow tense. Naomi wants to teach people more about snakes, but she’s not the only one who longs for a moment of fame. During the interview, things go from bad to worse. Can Naomi salvage the interview, her drama camp performance, and the club?
I hope to write more books in the series in the near future!
Author Links: Twitter | Facebook | Website
Original source: https://literarytitan.com/2023/08/12/responsibility-of-pet-ownership/
“Beyond the Gloaming Pass,” penned by the promising author Rebecca Holmes, elegantly interweaves a grand narrative tapestry that is both imaginative and captivating. Set against the backdrop of the fantastical land of Tunswick, we follow the journey of our central characters – Molindra, an aspirant mage, and her close companion Rubriel, a humble laborer. As they venture forth from their humble beginnings in pursuit of greater ambitions, their destination is the daunting and austere landscape of the Gloaming Mountains. The narrative is further augmented by the impending threat over their homeland, Bantria, pushing our protagonists into the uncharted territories of courage and sacrifice.
Holmes expertly balances opulent world-building, reminiscent of J.R.R. Tolkien, George R.R. Martin, and Ursula K. Le Guin, with astute attention to character development. While the influences of these authors can be discerned, Holmes’ work never resorts to being a mere emulation. She has conjured a unique literary creation that possesses its own distinctive charm. The narrative is replete with hidden gems, ensuring a continuously unfolding sense of discovery for the reader.
The core theme of “Beyond the Gloaming Pass” finds resonance with classic narratives such as “The Lord of the Rings” and “The Wheel of Time” series. It grapples with the timeless question – can the bonds of friendship withstand the assault of external forces that seem insistent on rending them apart?
A distinguishing feature that sets “Beyond the Gloaming Pass” apart from comparable works in the genre is its focus away from the romantic aspect. This characteristic is not to be misconstrued as a deficiency. Rather, the protagonists, Molindra and Rubriel, manifest an intriguing independence and focus on their purpose, which is perhaps reflective of author Rebecca Holmes’ desire to navigate away from traditional romantic subplots. In an interesting divergence, it appears that our protagonists are primarily, if not exclusively, occupied with their mission, with little inclination towards seeking romantic or casual companionship. This introduces a fresh perspective and a distinct narrative path that is both commendable and intriguing.
With an engaging plot, meticulously crafted characters, and a compelling theme, Holmes’ novel provides an absorbing read that is sure to entertain. Anticipating further narratives set in the intriguing realm of Bantria from this author’s creative arsenal is not just a hope but an eagerly awaited pleasure.
Pages: 433 | ASIN: B0C93C4K7C
Original source: https://literarytitan.com/2023/08/12/beyond-the-gloaming-pass/
Mental Health Mayday: A Firefighter’s Survival Guide from Recruit through Retirement is a revolutionary work by author Gregg Bagdade that extensively explores the oft-neglected topic of mental health in the arduous field of firefighting. Bagdade, leveraging his profound experiences as a paramedic, firefighter, and trained counselor, illuminates the unseen hardships and psychological tolls endured by these brave professionals.
Bagdade’s personal anecdotes form the core of this literary masterpiece, enabling readers to intimately connect with the author and his peers on a profoundly human level. In a society where we may primarily focus on our health and safety, this book serves as a poignant reminder that the professionals safeguarding our lives are humans, too, subject to the same emotional strains and stressors. Bagdade candidly discusses how the nature of their profession may sometimes leave them at a loss when grappling with emotional adversities.
One particularly affecting account is the tragic loss of one of Bagdade’s friends and colleagues. He poignantly conveys the initial grieving process he and his wife underwent, which gradually evolved into a collective grieving as other couples joined them. They found solace in mutual support, recalling shared memories, and speaking openly about the painful loss. This experience underscored for Bagdade the profound importance of mental health in his professional community, and it catalyzed his journey to becoming a counselor.
Mental Health Mayday sparks an essential dialogue about the significance of mental well-being in professional spheres. This is particularly critical for vocations like firefighting, where individuals regularly encounter the harsh realities of human suffering, loss, and tragedy. The importance of managing these experiences, especially when one’s role is to serve and protect, cannot be overstated. This book, I firmly believe, is a crucial step towards fostering a future of increased awareness and compassion within such challenging fields.
I recommend Mental Health Mayday to anyone aspiring to be a paramedic, doctor, or firefighter or simply seeking a deeply moving narrative. Gregg Bagdade, with this book and his life’s work, has made an immense contribution, perhaps even more than he comprehends. He has equipped his peers with tools to navigate the inherent trials of their professions and has laid the foundation for future generations of firefighters. Bagdade’s unflagging dedication and resilience are indeed commendable. Figures like him, who make a significant difference one step at a time within their communities, are the torchbearers leading us toward a more empathetic world.
Pages: 110 | ISBN-10 : 1957354224
Original source: https://literarytitan.com/2023/08/12/mental-health-mayday/
In Lyndsey Kay’s epistolary novel, How I Became the Real-Life Nurse Jackie, readers are invited to traverse the multifaceted journey of a nurse, presented through a series of deeply personal diary entries. The protagonist’s complex upbringing and challenges pave the way for a narrative that is both raw and resonant.
The novel commences with the musings of a nurse who exudes bitterness before diving into the chronicle that marks the inception of her life. Spanning her years as a schoolgirl and a teenager, readers are provided an unfiltered window into her evolving thoughts, experiences, motivations, and passions. The book metamorphoses into an intimate diary, illustrating the passage of time through shifts in thinking patterns and a mosaic of human emotions.
The chosen format for the narrative is remarkably fitting. Diary entries facilitate a closer bond between the reader and the protagonist, enhancing empathy toward her struggles. This style of narration crafts an environment that makes it easy to acknowledge the hurdles she faces. The reader embarks on a profound journey of self-discovery, resilience, and adaptation, guided by a character who plans, recalibrates, and faces life’s many obstacles head-on.
Kay does not shy away from delving into serious and somber themes such as unplanned pregnancies, unstable relationships and marriages, homelessness, and a growing addiction. The narrative beautifully captures the essence of a human being touching the depths of existence and the sparse glimmers of hope to climb out.
How I Became the Real-Life Nurse Jackie succeeds in portraying a stark reality that resonates with many. Despite the dark nature of the topics explored, the prose is accessible and inviting, compelling the reader to immerse themselves in understanding a life path not often articulated. By the end of this stirring read, one is left with a deeper sense of empathy and a greater appreciation for the shared human experience.
This novel is more than just a tale of trials and tribulations; it’s a celebration of resilience and an examination of the human condition. Engaging, heartfelt, and filled with wisdom, How I Became the Real-Life Nurse Jackie stands as a beacon for all those seeking to understand life’s complexities through the eyes of someone who has truly lived them.
Pages: 153 | ASIN : B0C9VXSH4L
Original source: https://literarytitan.com/2023/08/12/how-i-became-the-real-life-nurse-jackie/