As we stood on the slow line to enter the secure zone around the United Center in Chicago, an angry preacher thrust his sign toward us: “How can ye escape the damnation of Hell?” He probably did not realize how apt this question was. Just a month earlier, before Joe Biden announced that he would […]
Original source: https://www.nybooks.com/online/2024/08/27/fear-and-joy-in-chicago-dnc/
Ann Abadie, 1939 – 2024
katelyn.square…
Tue, 08/27/2024 – 12:59
As many of you know, Ann Abadie passed away on July 30 following a brief illness. As Ann was such a thoughtful and generous soul, she touched the lives of many people in various ways, including a great number in Oxford and those of us at Square Books, where she was a customer, of course, but a partner in many cultural endeavors and activities on campus and in town, and thus a dear friend to this bookstore.
Ann was a South Carolina native and graduate of Wake Forest University who came to Oxford in pursuit of a PhD in literature. She taught in the English Department — her husband, Dale, was a history professor — and Ann was instrumental in forming, fifty years ago, the first Faulkner Conference, and the Eudora Welty Symposium at UM in 1977. She also would be a guiding force in the Blues Symposium and the formation of the Southern Foodways Alliance. Most significantly, she was on a committee that determined the formation of the Center for the Study of Southern Culture, then began working there as assistant director to Bill Ferris — then with Charles Wilson, Ted Ownby, and Katie McKee.
Ann edited more thanx fifty books, including many in the series that emerged from the annual Faulkner Conferences, such as Faulkner and the Natural World and The South and Faulkner’s Yoknapatawpha, as well as Eudora Welty: A Form of Thanks; the significant publication of the Encyclopedia of Southern Culture; The Beautiful Mysterious: The Extraordinary Gaze of William Eggleston; The Mississippi Encyclopedia; and, in 2023, American Landscapes: Meditations on Art and Literature in a Changing World. Having witnessed how the Faulkner Conference had been a great success, I contacted Ann — a longtime Howorth family friend — and wondered aloud to Ann whether it might be possible to stage a literary conference which might acknowledge writers other than “merely” Faulkner. She replied, “Let me think about this.” A few weeks later she returned my call and said, basically, “I think we can do this, but give me a few years.” She needed time to clear the decks of the many other things she had going then. Surely enough, that first book conference was in 1994, and Ann was the person who enlisted numerous partners, including Square Books, in this annual event that within its first few years would draw William Styron, Willie Morris, Beverly Lowry, poet Charles Simic, editor Nan Talese, Ann Patchett, Pat Conroy, and longtime owner of The Tattered Cover in Denver, the late Joyce Meskis.
Ann, with her husband, history professor Dale Abadie, raised three lovely children — Elaine, Leslie and John — also was well known for her talent in the kitchen, as she baked (and delivered) cakes (including her famous poundcake) — and various goodies to those who might need gladdening, or perhaps were having out-of-town guests. She was always thinking of others, trying to help others, and shunned any praise directed her way. Lyn Roberts reminded me today that Ann was “a person you absolutely could not say no to.” This was not simply because Ann was very persuasive (and she was certainly that), but because you — for all of us who knew her — were forever in her debt because she had already done more for you than you could ever do to repay her.
– Richard Howorth
Image caption: Ann Abadie with Richard Howorth at Square Books — signing for Etheridge Knight, December, 1979. Photo courtesy Bill Ferris.
Original source: https://squarebooks.com/ann-abadie-1939-2024
Ann Abadie, 1939 – 2024
katelyn.square…
Tue, 08/27/2024 – 12:59
As many of you know, Ann Abadie passed away on July 30 following a brief illness. As Ann was such a thoughtful and generous soul, she touched the lives of many people in various ways, including a great number in Oxford and those of us at Square Books, where she was a customer, of course, but a partner in many cultural endeavors and activities on campus and in town, and thus a dear friend to this bookstore.
Ann was a South Carolina native and graduate of Wake Forest University who came to Oxford in pursuit of a PhD in literature. She taught in the English Department — her husband, Dale, was a history professor — and Ann was instrumental in forming, fifty years ago, the first Faulkner Conference, and the Eudora Welty Symposium at UM in 1977. She also would be a guiding force in the Blues Symposium and the formation of the Southern Foodways Alliance. Most significantly, she was on a committee that determined the formation of the Center for the Study of Southern Culture, then began working there as assistant director to Bill Ferris — then with Charles Wilson, Ted Ownby, and Katie McKee.
Ann edited more thanx fifty books, including many in the series that emerged from the annual Faulkner Conferences, such as Faulkner and the Natural World and The South and Faulkner’s Yoknapatawpha, as well as Eudora Welty: A Form of Thanks; the significant publication of the Encyclopedia of Southern Culture; The Beautiful Mysterious: The Extraordinary Gaze of William Eggleston; The Mississippi Encyclopedia; and, in 2023, American Landscapes: Meditations on Art and Literature in a Changing World. Having witnessed how the Faulkner Conference had been a great success, I contacted Ann — a longtime Howorth family friend — and wondered aloud to Ann whether it might be possible to stage a literary conference which might acknowledge writers other than “merely” Faulkner. She replied, “Let me think about this.” A few weeks later she returned my call and said, basically, “I think we can do this, but give me a few years.” She needed time to clear the decks of the many other things she had going then. Surely enough, that first book conference was in 1994, and Ann was the person who enlisted numerous partners, including Square Books, in this annual event that within its first few years would draw William Styron, Willie Morris, Beverly Lowry, poet Charles Simic, editor Nan Talese, Ann Patchett, Pat Conroy, and longtime owner of The Tattered Cover in Denver, the late Joyce Meskis.
Ann, with her husband, history professor Dale Abadie, raised three lovely children — Elaine, Leslie and John — also was well known for her talent in the kitchen, as she baked (and delivered) cakes (including her famous poundcake) — and various goodies to those who might need gladdening, or perhaps were having out-of-town guests. She was always thinking of others, trying to help others, and shunned any praise directed her way. Lyn Roberts reminded me today that Ann was “a person you absolutely could not say no to.” This was not simply because Ann was very persuasive (and she was certainly that), but because you — for all of us who knew her — were forever in her debt because she had already done more for you than you could ever do to repay her.
– Richard Howorth
Image caption: Ann Abadie with Richard Howorth at Square Books — signing for Etheridge Knight, December, 1979. Photo courtesy Bill Ferris.
Original source: https://squarebooks.com/ann-abadie-1939-2024
Deeper Than the Dead by Debra Webb is the first in the Vera Boyett mystery series and was a Prime First Read in July. This was a twisty southern murder mystery that pulled me in as we meet Vera Boyett, a disgraced deputy police chief who returns home when a body is discovered on her family’s homestead.
Deeper Than The Dead
by Debra Webb
Series: Vera Boyett #1
Genres: Mystery
Source: Prime
Purchase*: Amazon | Audible *affiliate
Rating: 
Someone’s found the skeleton in the closet, and it’s not the only one. Wall Street Journal bestselling author Debra Webb presents an emotional new mystery.
Crime analyst and newly disgraced deputy police chief Vera Boyett doesn’t visit home often, and she certainly doesn’t venture back into the cave on her family land. But when the remains of her long-missing stepmother are discovered, Vera will have to face a past that threatens all she is.
She and her sister Eve had a fairy-tale childhood: good until it was tragic, with a stepmother they never found a bond with. At least they had each other, a baby half-sister, and a mutual devotion that would have them do the unthinkable.
It’s a summer in small-town Tennessee, so thick with humidity it could drown you and so rife with secrets it could smother you. And deep beneath the surface, there are more bodies than you’d think…
{
“@context”:”https://schema.org”,
“@type”:”Review”,
“datePublished”: “2024-08-27T05:00:00+00:00”,
“description”: “Deeper Than the Dead by Debra Webb is the first in the Vera Boyett mystery series and was a Prime First Read in July. This was a twisty southern murder mystery that pulled me in as we meet Vera B”,
“publisher”: {
“@type”: “Organization”,
“name”: “Caffeinated Reviewer” },
“url”: “https://caffeinatedbookreviewer.com/2024/08/deeper-than-the-dead-by-debra-webb.html”,
“itemReviewed”: {
“@type”: “Book”,
“name”: “Deeper Than The Dead”,
“author”: {
“@type”: “Person”,
“name”: “Debra Webb”,
“sameAs”: “https://debrawebb.com/” },
“isbn”: “” },
“author”: {
“@type”: “Person”,
“name”: “Kimberly”,
“sameAs”: “https://caffeinatedbookreviewer.com/” },
“reviewRating”: {
“@type”: “Rating”,
“ratingValue”: 4,
“bestRating”: “5”
}
}
I read this on vacation and enjoyed the twisted tale with secrets and small-town issues. For those who have KindleUnlimited, both the ebook & audiobook are available.
When we meet crime analyst and deputy police chief Vera Boyett, she is in trouble. She heads up a special team that garnished national attention, but things went topsy-turvy and Vera will become the fall out guy. She’s backing her desk expecting the worst, when her sister calls. Some kids found the body of a woman in a cave on her family property.
I liked Vera, who held the siblings together after their mother died, but slowly we begin to see the cracks that formed. The local sheriff just happens to be the boy who broke her heart and things turn interesting when more bodies are discovered.
The murder-mystery was twisty. We know some secrets, but it will take Vera and Sheriff to piece things together, because someone wants those secrets to remain buried. I liked the slow reveals, Vera’s quirky secrets, the growing suspense as Vera began piecing things together.
A solid start to the series. I am looking forward to seeing what the next Vera Boyett mystery novel brings. Part police procedural, part small-town family secrets and completely addictive, you’ll want to add this one if you enjoy Kendra Elliot.
Amazon* | Audible
*kindleunlimited 
DEBRA WEBB is the USA Today, Wall Street Journal, and Publisher’s Weekly bestselling author of more than 175 novels, including reader favorites the Devlin & Falco, Finley O’Sullivan and Faces of Evil series. She is the recipient of the prestigious Romantic Times Career Achievement Award for Romantic Suspense, the Centennial Award, as well as numerous Reviewers Choice Awards. In 2012 Debra was honored as the first recipient of the esteemed L. A. Banks Warrior Woman Award for her courage, strength, and grace in the face of adversity. With more than ten million books in print in numerous languages and countries, Debra’s love of storytelling goes back to her childhood when, at the age of nine, her mother bought her an old typewriter in a tag sale. Born in Alabama, Debra grew up on a farm. She spent every available hour exploring the world around her and creating her stories.
Never miss a post by adding Caffeinated to your Inbox
Subscribe
Source
Original source: https://caffeinatedbookreviewer.com/2024/08/deeper-than-the-dead-by-debra-webb.html
In What Is The Meaning Of Life? YOU, Debbie Bishop invites readers on a deeply introspective journey, exploring the hidden lessons within our daily struggles, failures, and relationships. The book tackles profound questions such as whether procrastination is hindering our success, what we can learn from our biggest failures, and how to protect ourselves from those who repeatedly hurt us. Through a collection of essays, Bishop shares the wisdom she has gleaned from her own life experiences, offering insights that encourage self-awareness, kindness, and a deeper connection to the spiritual world.
One of the book’s greatest strengths is its accessibility. Written in a friendly and engaging tone, What Is The Meaning Of Life? You is both easy to read and thought-provoking. Bishop’s use of humor and personal anecdotes makes her lessons relatable, while the underlying messages urge readers to put her advice into practice. The book is filled with memorable quotes, such as “Let go of wanting approval from others,” which resonate long after the page is turned. Additionally, Bishop provides actionable tips and instructions, making it easier for readers to incorporate these lessons into their own lives. For instance, she offers a powerful suggestion to repeat “I love you” to oneself during moments of anger or conflict, a practice that can transform one’s emotional responses. Bishop’s exploration of diverse topics, including the mind, Eastern philosophy, spirituality, and relationships, ensures that there is something in this book for everyone. Her captivating stories of spiritual experiences, such as her encounter with a “black energy” that felt like “darts from a swirling black hole,” will particularly appeal to open-minded readers who are curious about the unseen forces that influence our lives. This book reads like a series of interconnected essays, each chapter focusing on a different theme yet maintaining a cohesive flow. This structure allows Bishop to delve into a wide range of subjects, from technology and human personalities to failure, attraction, depression, karma, and reincarnation. The variety of topics keeps the reader engaged and offers a holistic approach to understanding life’s challenges and mysteries.
What Is The Meaning Of Life? YOU is a rich resource grounded in Debbie Bishop’s personal experiences, offering eye-opening, thought-provoking, and highly inspiring content. Its chapters provide valuable tools for improving the quality of your life and gaining a deeper understanding of human nature. Whether you are seeking spiritual growth, better relationships, or simply a new perspective on life, this is a book that will leave a lasting impact.
Pages: 122 | ASIN : B0D97XVL59
The Second-Best Business Book Ever Written: The Pursuit of Thought Leadership in Sales, Marketing, and Life presents a refreshing and incisive critique of modern business theories and practices, boldly challenging the conventional wisdom that often dominates the corporate world. Author Tom Marks encourages readers to rethink the principles of thought leadership, a concept he argues has endured since the days of Socrates, Plato, Aristotle, and Aspasia. According to the author, thought leadership remains timeless, yet many contemporary experts fail to keep pace with the ever-evolving economic landscape, leaving readers without the guidance they need to navigate current challenges.
The author’s perspective on thought leadership is particularly compelling, as he argues that it is not about the size or resources of a company but rather about the adaptability and relevance of its ideas. This approach feels especially pertinent in today’s dynamic business environment. Marks’ book is both insightful and comprehensive, capturing business leadership as an organic, fluid entity that grows and evolves over time. His detailed exploration of his perspective is balanced and open-minded, acknowledging differing opinions while making a strong case for his own views. Marks emphasizes the importance of recognizing and learning from these smaller organizations, which frequently implement innovative practices and philosophies that, while not always in the spotlight, have a significant impact. This point is especially relevant for small business owners, who may find validation and inspiration in Marks’ focus on the value of their experiences. In a commendable display of impartiality and courage, Marks also critiques the pitfalls of modern business strategies, such as the fleeting nature of trends and the hollow promises of so-called thought leaders more interested in self-promotion than genuine innovation. His ability to tie these critiques into the broader theme of the book is a testament to his writing skills and deep passion for the subject. His use of relatable and realistic scenarios helps readers grasp why this is a crucial conversation to have in today’s business world. The book is rich with real-world examples drawn from Marks’ extensive experience working with both large corporations and smaller enterprises. His writing is enlivened by these examples and peppered with sharp quips, making for an engaging and memorable read.
From the moment you encounter the title, it’s clear that The Second-Best Business Book Ever Written is something special. Marks maintains a simplicity and relatability throughout the book that ensures it resonates with a wide audience. This is a thought-provoking read that challenges readers to look beyond the noise of current business trends and focus on what truly matters: knowledge, authenticity, and the pursuit of a better world. Marks’ insights are sure to inspire and resonate with readers, regardless of their background or reasons for picking up the book. This is the kind of book that not only inspires but also drives meaningful impact.
Pages: 296 | ASIN : B0D96MXPY4
Original source: https://literarytitan.com/2024/08/27/the-second-best-business-book-ever-written-the-pursuit-of-thought-leadership-in-sales-marketing-and-life/
Jay Anderson’s RECOMPENSE: Book 1 – A King for Scotland is a captivating blend of survival, brotherhood, romance, and history. While it may appear to be a straightforward war story at first glance, it delves much deeper, offering a rich exploration of heritage and the quest to correct historical wrongs. Anderson’s characters are vividly drawn, deeply human, and their emotional and romantic journeys will keep you engaged from start to finish. The novel centers on a British regiment fighting in Afghanistan in 2010, who are suddenly thrust back in time to 1746 Scotland—just days before the pivotal Battle of Culloden. Faced with the unprecedented opportunity to alter the course of history, the regiment must navigate the complexities of the 18th century and find their place in Prince Charles’ court.
Anderson expertly weaves military strategy and tactics throughout the narrative, creating a suspenseful and page-turning experience as the battles unfold. One of the novel’s strengths is its respectful and detailed portrayal of Scottish heritage and rituals, from the use of Gaelic language to traditional war practices. The characters’ deep love for their country and commitment to their heritage are palpable, driving their desire to reshape the future. At the same time, the story is also a poignant exploration of loss and adaptation, as the soldiers grapple with the heartache of being torn from their families and thrust into an unfamiliar era.
RECOMPENSE: Book 1 – A King for Scotland is a must-read for fans of military strategy, historical warfare, and courtly intrigue. Anderson leaves readers on the edge of their seats with a cliffhanger ending, eagerly anticipating the next installment in the Recompense series.
Pages: 388 | ASIN : B0CZPKJLDT
Original source: https://literarytitan.com/2024/08/27/recompense-book-1-a-king-for-scotland/
Transforming Into a Powerful Third, Fourth, or Fifth Grade Navigator of School Success is a delightful and practical guide for young students aiming to thrive in school. It’s filled with over 100 strategies, tips, and exercises designed to help kids build strong habits, develop positive relationships with teachers, and navigate the often-tricky world of upper elementary school. The book’s friendly tone, interactive elements, and charming characters like Powerful Pencil and Successful Stapler make it an engaging read for kids.
One of the things I love most about this book is its straightforward and encouraging approach. Dr. Todd Feltman doesn’t just tell students what to do, he explains why each strategy is important. For instance, in the first chapter, kids are advised to start their day with a healthy routine, including stretching and eating a good breakfast. The reasoning behind these tips is clearly laid out, making it easier for kids to understand the value of forming good habits. I can easily see how these simple, practical steps could make a big difference in a child’s school day.
The writing is perfectly pitched for its audience. Clear, upbeat, and accessible. I appreciate how Dr. Feltman includes opportunities for self-reflection throughout the book. Each chapter ends with a “Reflection Time,” prompting students to think about which strategies they want to adopt and why. This not only reinforces the lessons but also empowers kids to take ownership of their learning journey. The interactive elements, such as spaces for drawing and note-taking, add a fun, hands-on dimension that helps keep young readers engaged.
Transforming Into a Powerful Third, Fourth, or Fifth Grade Navigator of School Success is a fantastic resource for kids in the upper elementary grades, especially those who might need a little extra help getting organized or building confidence in their abilities. Teachers and parents will also find it a useful tool for guiding children toward academic success.
Pages: 285 | ASIN : B0CPMDW67F
Original source: https://literarytitan.com/2024/08/27/transforming-into-a-powerful-third-fourth-or-fifth-grade-navigator-of-school-success/
Feng Shui: A Homeowner’s Guide to Abundance takes a modern approach to the ancient art of Feng Shui, demystifying the practice and helping readers create a sanctuary of abundance in their homes. Why was this an important book for you to write?
Writing this book was a spiritual calling for me, as Feng Shui is often misrepresented as a simplistic, superstitious tradition or a practice only appreciated by certain cultures. In reality, Feng Shui is a profound tool for creating balance and harmony in any space, and its principles are universally relevant.
I’ve seen how even small adjustments in our surroundings can lead to powerful shifts in our lives, bringing abundance, wellbeing, and a sense of peace into our homes. Feng Shui is not just about moving a pot plant here or there; it’s about improving the energetic design of buildings in a way that truly enhances the quality of life.
I also I wanted to add my voice to the conversation about Feng Shui and share the true essence of this ancient Chinese art with a broader audience, making it accessible and relatable. My goal was to demystify Feng Shui and show how it can be a valuable tool for anyone looking to create a sanctuary of positivity and abundance in their home.
What were some ideas that were important for you to share in this book?
In Feng Shui – A Homeowner’s Guide to Abundance, I focused on core principles that are essential for anyone looking to elevate their living spaces with Feng Shui. A central concept is the balance and interaction of the five elements—wood, fire, earth, metal, and water. Each element contributes its own energy to your environment, and understanding how to harmonise these can have a profound impact on your well-being and prosperity.
Another key idea is the creation of a Feng Shui energy map for your home. This tool is vital for identifying how different areas of your home influence various aspects of your life—health, relationships, financial success. It’s about mapping your home to optimising your space and understanding how these energies work and interact to shape your daily experience.
I also emphasised the importance of integrating Feng Shui with modern design principles. It’s not enough for a space to be energetically aligned; it also needs to be aesthetically pleasing and functional. Our homes should be sanctuaries that support both our physical and spiritual well-being.
What is a common misconception you feel people have about Feng Shui?
A common misconception I often encounter is that Feng Shui is just about superstition or decorating with objects like wind chimes or crystals to bring good luck. But Feng Shui goes far beyond that. It’s a practice that combines both art and science, designed to create harmony between people and their environments by optimising the flow of energy.
The essence of Feng Shui isn’t in simply rearranging objects around your home. It’s about understanding how the arrangement of space, the movement of energy, and the balance of the five elements—wood, fire, earth, metal, and water—affect our well-being and success. Feng Shui takes a holistic view, considering everything from the architecture of a building to the smallest details of a room’s design, all tailored to the unique energy of the individual and the space. It’s a practical approach to creating environments that truly support and uplift us, far beyond just aesthetics or superstition.
What is the next book that you are writing and when will that be published?
I’m in the early stages of planning my next book, which will focus on energy management—not just within the built environment, but also considering the energy we encounter from various sources in our daily lives. This book will explore how we can harmonise these energies to enhance our overall well-being, integrating Feng Shui with modern wellness practices. It’s still in development, however I’m aiming for a publication date in the next year or two. My goal is to continue making Feng Shui accessible and relevant, helping readers transform their lives by transforming the energy around them.
Author Links: GoodReads | Instagram | LinkedIn | Website
In Feng Shui: A Homeowner’s Guide to Abundance you’ll discover:Energising Your Space: Learn how to enhance the flow of positive energy in your home, for greater vitality, love, and success.
Elegant Balance: Combine modern design aesthetics with the profound principles of Feng Shui, creating beautiful spaces that are energetically aligned.
Room-by-Room Transformation: Jane guides you through applying Feng Shui in every room of your home, from the entryway to the bedroom, ensuring every space promotes harmony and prosperity.
Practical Wisdom: Avoid the common pitfalls and misconceptions that lead to ineffective or counterproductive design choices. Jane focuses on actionable, practical Feng Shui solutions that bring about real change.
Harmonious Living: Create an environment that not only resonates with abundance but also supports your journey toward personal growth and fulfillment.
Jane Langof’s experience and knowledge have seen her working with innovative design professionals and luxury property owners worldwide since opening her practice, Feng Shui Concepts in 2008. With a keen eye for detail and a deep understanding of the interplay between space and energy, Jane has created a guide that is as practical as it is inspirational.
Whether you’re looking to refresh your living space, embark on a major renovation, or build your dream home from the ground up, this book offers the insights and tools you need to create a home that reflects your aspirations, supports your well-being, and invites success into your life.
Begin your journey towards transforming your home into a sanctuary of harmony and abundance with Feng Shui: A Homeowner’s Guide to Abundance.
Warm, practical and no-nonsense, Jane Langof has written the essential resource for creating a beautiful, abundant home.
Original source: https://literarytitan.com/2024/08/27/balance-and-harmony/
Best science fiction and fantasy books of August 2024, as chosen by the Amazon Editors
Original source: https://www.amazon.com/amazonbookreview/editorspicks.html%3Ftheme=light?ref_=abr_widget_nav&theme=light