The One Who’s Gonna See You Through by John Steven Welch opens with a poignant scene: Gregory reflects on his father’s incarceration for murder, setting the stage for an exploration of his challenging yet formative years. Growing up in a predominantly black neighborhood with an absent mother and a single father, Gregory faces the complexities of his community with resilience. Despite his peers’ taunting and the local gossip, he cultivates a demeanor of kindness and a passion for volunteering, finding solace in his few but meaningful friendships.

Among the significant influences in his life is Miss Carrie, an elderly woman who becomes a surrogate mother figure, enriching Gregory’s life with her wisdom and support. The narrative deepens as Gregory, who is gay, confronts discrimination within his community, adding layers to his personal and social struggles. Welch masterfully blends elements of fiction with the introspective depth of a memoir, offering readers a vivid window into communal life and personal perseverance. The neighborhood’s vibrancy comes alive through anecdotes about Gregory’s neighbors, whose interactions are reminiscent of shared secrets and collective support. The novel not only navigates the hurdles of Gregory’s youth and adult life but also intersperses humor and valuable life lessons throughout, making it not just a compelling read but also an inspiring one. This book resonates deeply, mirroring real-life struggles and triumphs, and is a noteworthy addition to contemporary fiction.

The One Who’s Gonna See You Through offers a deeply personal yet universally resonant journey through the highs and lows of Gregory’s life, showcasing the enduring power of resilience and the importance of community. John Steven Welch’s narrative prowess shines as he weaves a story that is as much about overcoming adversity as it is about the impact of those we meet along the way. This novel invites readers into the heart of its characters’ lives, making it a memorable read for anyone interested in stories of personal growth and communal bonds.

Pages: 229 | ASIN : B0CHNBP76L

Original source: https://literarytitan.com/2024/05/17/the-one-whos-gonna-see-you-through/

Old Bess by Cynthia Vander Ark offers a vivid and pastoral narrative that delves into themes of resilience in both human and animal spirits. This lovely children’s book takes readers to a charming rural backdrop, focusing on a farm’s crisis when Old Bess, a cherished cow, disappears just before calving. The tension builds as dusk blankets Hog’s Back Mountain, and Old Bess is nowhere among the returning herd, causing worry among the farm dwellers.

The plot centers around the narrator and Keith, who set out on a gripping search marked by suspenseful moments and a palpable sense of urgency. Their quest through the dimming woods and rugged terrain mirrors their fluctuating despair and hope. They eventually find Old Bess in a dire state, leading to a communal effort to assist her through a stormy night. Following the ordeal, the story transitions to a more serene scene, where the narrator tenderly cares for the newborn calf, underlining the importance of nurture and responsibility.

Old Bess stands out not just as an adventure and survival tale but also as a poignant exploration of life’s cycles and the critical role of community support in overcoming adversities. The addition of a glossary helps demystify farming terminology and enriches the book’s educational value. With its engaging narrative and lessons on perseverance and compassion, this picture book is poised to enchant young readers and teach them about the enduring beauty of life’s cycles.

Pages: 74 | ASIN: B0CP4F673D

Original source: https://literarytitan.com/2024/05/17/old-bess/

“The Day the Clouds Went Away” by Richard Rieman is a charming and beautifully illustrated children’s book that tells the story of Princess Claudia, a bold and independent young princess with low vision. Claudia, with the help of her guide owl Iris and the somewhat clumsy wizard Fumbledore, learns an important lesson about the value of clouds and rain after she commands the clouds to disappear, only to face unintended consequences.

Rieman’s storytelling is engaging and whimsical, capturing the reader’s imagination from the first page. The characters are well-developed, each with distinct and endearing personalities. Princess Claudia is a refreshing protagonist who is strong-willed yet open to learning. The interactions with various clouds, such as Cyrus McCirrus and Chrissy the Cumulus Cat Cloud, are not only educational but also filled with playful dialogue that keeps young readers entertained while subtly imparting knowledge about different types of clouds and their roles in nature.

One of the book’s strengths is its clever integration of scientific facts into the narrative. For instance, through Claudia’s conversations with the clouds, children learn that clouds are essential for rain, which in turn is crucial for the survival of plants and animals. This educational aspect is seamlessly woven into the story, making the learning experience enjoyable. Additionally, the book’s illustrations by Barbara Owczarek are vibrant and captivating, perfectly complementing the text and bringing the fantastical elements of the story to life.

The narrative also thoughtfully addresses themes of acceptance and understanding. Claudia’s initial frustration with the clouds, driven by her desire for a perfect sunny day, transforms into a realization of their importance. This journey reflects broader lessons about appreciating the natural world and understanding that everything has a role to play.

“The Day the Clouds Went Away” is an enchanting read for children and adults alike. It combines a delightful story with educational elements and beautiful illustrations, making it a perfect addition to any child’s bookshelf. I highly recommend this picture book for children aged 4 to 8, especially those who enjoy stories about nature, fantasy, and learning through adventure.

Pages: 39 | ASIN: B0CTHRFCXX

Original source: https://literarytitan.com/2024/05/17/the-day-the-clouds-went-away/

“Pippin’s River Rescue” tells the delightful story of Pippin, a curious and brave poodle who loves visiting the river with his friends. One day, the serene environment turns into a scene of urgency when Rocket, a young dolphin, becomes entangled in a fishing net. With the help of his animal friends, Pippin embarks on a courageous rescue mission, emphasizing the importance of protecting nature from human-made hazards.

The writing is engaging and perfectly tailored for young readers. Author Julia Seaborn has a knack for creating a charming narrative that combines adventure with an educational message. The dialogue between Pippin and his friends feels natural and lively, particularly during the rescue scene where tension builds up as Pippin and Bubbles struggle to free Rocket from the net. The use of simple yet vivid language makes the story accessible and enjoyable for children, ensuring they stay captivated throughout.

One of the aspects of the book I enjoyed the most was its environmental message. Seaborn cleverly weaves a lesson about the impact of littering on wildlife into the storyline without it feeling forced. This is effectively illustrated when Shadow and Shimmer, black swans, explain how discarded fishing nets and other trash can be harmful to animals. The book doesn’t just stop at pointing out the problem but also encourages children to take action, as seen when Pippin promises to help clean up the riverbank. This call to action is empowering for young readers and instills a sense of responsibility towards the environment.

Richard Hoit’s illustrations are a visual treat, enriching the story with vibrant colors and expressive characters. The playful portrayal of Pippin, Rocket, and their friends adds depth to the narrative, making the characters more memorable and endearing. The illustrations also effectively convey the urgency and teamwork involved in the rescue, which captures children’s attention and helps them grasp the story’s emotional and moral nuances.

“Pippin’s River Rescue” is a delightful and meaningful picture book for young children. The combination of an engaging storyline, a vital environmental message, and captivating illustrations makes this children’s book a valuable addition to any child’s library. I highly recommend it for parents and educators looking to teach children about the importance of environmental conservation in a fun and engaging way.

Pages: 32 | ASIN: B0D1WK2S69

Original source: https://literarytitan.com/2024/05/17/pippins-river-rescue-a-poodle-called-pippin/

A Place Unmade follows a marketing director and graduate student who uncovers a plot of corporate espionage. What was the inspiration for the setup of your story?

An article published in the NYT called Save our Food Free the Seed introduced me to the dangers of industrial agriculture and patentable genetics. Mass production of crops causes a lack of biodiversity. Four industrial agricultural companies now control 60 % of all the seeds that are produced in this country. One of those companies is American, two of those companies are German, and the last one is Chinese. They control all the pesticides and fertilizers. They use one or just a few versions of a grain or vegetable, and this makes our food supply increasingly vulnerable. I wanted to create awareness and felt driven to write a book that would make the science accessible and the danger real.

The character development in this novel was in-depth and engaging. What were some of the emotional and moral guidelines you followed when developing your characters?

Growing up in New Orleans gave me the opportunity to experience many different cultures and backgrounds, and I wanted that for my characters. A university setting was a realistic place where they could meet, interact, and participate in an ethics class that became the framework to the challenges they faced. As they worked together, I had a natural platform for them to express different perspectives and values.

What were some themes that were important for you to explore in this book?

I hoped to highlight the importance of small farmers and the critical contribution they make to our country, not only from an economic standpoint, but culturally. It’s a way of life that is endangered and we should be doing much more to support them.

I wanted to empower the younger characters to make a difference in a significant crisis, and have them be the first to recognize the problem.

Another one of my goals was to show a nuanced view of the scientists working in agricultural research. It’s not all black and white, or good and bad.

What is the next book that you are working on, and when will it be available?

I am working on a new book, tentatively called High Resolution. It’s about Coco Benoit, a single, professional woman in her mid-40’s who stumbles onto a smuggling operation at her long-term employer, an offshore oilfield supplier. She encounters pirates in the southern Gulf of Mexico, smooth-talking Cajuns, and Ira, her boyfriend, who is too clever for his own good. I hope it will be available in late 2025 or early 2026.

Author Links: GoodReads | Website | Instagram

Original source: https://literarytitan.com/2024/05/17/a-way-of-life-that-is-endangered/

On the eve of Mexico’s presidential elections, Andrés Manuel López Obrador maintains a high approval rating. But his constitutional chicanery and disregard for the law have undermined democracy, and his divisive rhetoric has polarized the country.

Original source: https://www.nybooks.com/articles/2024/06/06/mexicos-politics-of-bitterness-birke-regidor/

Today I feel on my tongue the bitternessof being. I feel the anguish enterthrough my feet. The day grows thinas a thread. Already the light is sticky porridge.All the pigs scream. The pigs? The pigsof din and racket, the machines stalkingthe streets, our overheated masters.It triumphs over the weary shellsof my eyelids, the itch of […]

Original source: https://www.nybooks.com/articles/2024/06/06/daily-verses-16-marigloria-palma/

As we encounter Shakespeare’s tragedies it becomes terrifyingly clear that we are not in a moral universe of comeuppances and rewarded virtues.

Original source: https://www.nybooks.com/articles/2024/06/06/no-comfort-shakespeare-fintan-otoole/

While our brains do not simply mirror our surroundings, animals—nonhuman and human—are exquisitely embedded, suspended, in nature’s energies.

Original source: https://www.nybooks.com/articles/2024/06/06/visible-and-invisible-worlds-when-animals-dream-pena-guzman/

For months now an enormous excavating machine has been drilling deep into central Rome beneath Piazza Venezia, at the foot of the looming Victor Emmanuel II National Monument—a white marble pile of steps and columns that is probably the closest we will ever get to experiencing the grandeur of ancient Rome. Also known as the […]

Original source: https://www.nybooks.com/articles/2024/06/06/melonis-cultural-revolution-rachel-donadio/