First Chapter Plus e-Magazine January 2024 Issue

First Chapter Plus is the e-Magazine where readers connect with Indie Authors and their work.

FIRST CHAPTER PLUS JANUARY 2024 CONNECTING READERS TO INDIE BOOKS

DAWN COLCLASURE Multi-Cultural Children’s Book Day Read Your World Event January 25, 2024 BAREFOOT LIBRARIAN

How Short Story Collections Offer Bite-Size Entertainment for Readers

A “Trust Me” List of Reading You Can Depend on Not Being Rigged MEET THE AUTHOR Elaine Kozak Author of Rhapsody in a Minor mode CAROLYN HOWARD- JOHNSON

SUSAN VIOLANTE

Plan your writing for 2024

I Have Something to Say Note from the Editor

New Year Resolutions & Inspiration Boards... why not just a To Do List?

by Susan Violante

E very end of the year we go into planning mode in hopes for a better one. Somehow, we think that by voicing ‘new year resolutions’ and creating vision boards before the last ‘bell dong’ of midnight we will automatically become a disciplined, motivated goal achiever machine. Of course, we don’t and by the end of the new year we are again disappointed in ourselves and go through the same process again. As I prepared to enter 2024 I decided to change my approach and just create a mental ‘to do list’ of some things I wanted to get done this year. I decided to tackle tasks instead of stating goals. So, for my take better care of myself resolution I put down on my list what I needed to do so that I could check them off. My list as of 1/15/2024 looks like this: Change medical Insurance – Done in December 2023 Find a diet plan that I can follow – started Jenny Craig this past weekend Change Dr. and speak to them about my health struggles. – had a visit with my new Dr. the first week of January…etc. I was able to achieve in the beginning of the year 3 resolutions that I have been repeating since 2017. This new task approach for some reason has kept me motivated because they were no longer wishes in my head, they were tasks. They were real things that I needed to get done just like my mundane errands or work daily tasks. I wish you all find what works for you to accomplish all of your dreams in 2024!

Managing Editor Susan Violante

ABOUT ME Born and raised in Venezuela of Italian immigrants, Susan completed a BA in Political Science and Business Administration before moving to the US . She built a career as a Business Analyst/Accountant, while keeping herself active as a freelance writer in the US; publishing articles, poetry, children’s stories, and illustrations since 1996. She published her first book in 2009, and released her revised edition: Innocent War: Behind An Immigrant’s Past in 2011. Her picture book: Tuma: The Tribe’s Little Princess was published in early 2013 under her own label. Currently, Susan Violante is the Managing Editor/CEO/ Partner of I Have Something to Say Press and Book By Book Publicity, Author, Reviewer, Publicist and Publisher. She resides in Austin, TX with her husband Michel and her dogs, Canela and Karina,

IN THIS ISSUE

03 BOOK VIDEOS

04 PODCAST OF THE MONTH

05 BAREFOOT LIBRARIAN

07 READER VIEWS BOOKS OF THE MONTH

09 MEET THE AUTHOR

12 AUTHORS AND BOOKS

13 FIRST CHAPTER PLUS COLUMNIST

14 FEATURED BOOK AND AUTHOR 15 A“TRUST ME” LIST OF READING YOU CAN DEPEND ON NOT BEING RIGGED

17HOW SHORT STORY

COLLECTIONS OFFER BITE-SIZE ENTERTAINMENT FOR READERS

20 UNWRAPPING CREATIVITY: HOW TO FIND A GIFT FOR YOUR WRITER

100% GREEN First Chapter Plus e-magazine IS Environment conscious. Please consider the environment before printing.

MANAGING EDITORS Susan Violante & Sheri Hoyte CREATIVE EDITOR Janice Miller

BOOK VIDEOS The best tool in any book campaign!

Just like movie trailers, book videos allow the audience to take a peek at a book and get a feeling about it.It also gives information about the author as well as, what others think about the book. All this in a very visual way in a short time frame which can be share in all social media platforms.

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PODCAST OF THE MONTH The

INSIDE

About "You Are Still Alive, Now Act Like It!" A Call to Action Spiritual Transformation Science and Spirituality

LISTEN TO THE PODCAST

Gay Catania is an acclaimed author, metaphysical teacher, theorist, and coach. He is the visionary behind Limitless Publications, Limitless Coaching, and Scientific Spirituality for the Modern Human. Catania has written two captivating books in his Awakening Series: “The Atheist and The Afterlife” and “ You Are Still Alive, Now Act Like It.” A survivor of a near-death experience (NDE), Ray Catania is also an ordained minister with master certifications in life coaching, Usui Reiki, and meditation. Currently pursuing his doctorate degree in Metaphysical-Parapsychology, he combines his extensive formal education with wisdom gained from studying under some of the most brilliant minds in the world, including intuitives, mediums, shamans, and energy healers.

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Multi-Cultural Chi ldren ’ s Book Day Read Your World Event January 25, 2024 Every year, I participate, along with hundreds of other book reviewers, in the Multicultural Children’s Book Day Read Your World Event by reviewing and posting about diverse books. And every year, I use this platform to spread the word about this important event and organization, whose mission is becoming ever more significant as the challenges and bans of diverse books increase.

Reads -THE BAREFOOT LIBRARIAN-

MCBD Read Your World event provides reviews of hundreds of diverse books concentrated into one month. However, they also offer many other resources on their website throughout the year. MCBD: “Together, we can change the world one book at a time. Read Your World is a non-profit whose mission is to raise awareness about children’s books that celebrate diversity and to get more of these books into the hands of readers. With the alarming increase in children’s books being challenged and banned, it is more important than ever to give kids access to diverse stories. We do this by d onating books to reviewers and classroom libraries . We provide book lists and classroom kits to help parents, guardians, teachers, librarians, and readers find the diverse children’s books that they need.” In addition to MCBD Read Your World , an increasing number of sources are available that provide book lists and other resources for diverse children’s books. Below are just a few examples. We Need Diverse Books “…strives to diversify the publishing industry and make bookshelves more equitable – all to promote literacy, build empathy, and reduce bias.” Indigenous Reads Rising “…celebrates children’s and YA literature by Native, First Nations, and Indigenous creators.” “ The Brown Bookshelf is designed to push awareness of the myriad Black voices writing for young readers.” “ Rainbow Round Table (RRT) of the American Library Association is committed to serving the information needs of the LGBTQIA+ professional library community, and the LGBTQIA+ information and access needs of individuals at large.” Social Justice Books – A Teaching for Change Project. “Critically reviewed selection of multicultural and social justice books for children, young adults, and educators.”

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There are many places to find quality diverse books. Let’s start the new year by embracing diverse books. Both the books I am recommending this month deal with how a language barrier can impact children (and adults). You can read a full review of Chocolate Milk Por Favor – Celebrating Diversity with Empathy on the MCBD. Read Your World Event site and my website, barefootlibrarian.com.

Chocolate Milk Por Favor – Celebrating Diversity with Empathy

Written by: Leonarda Carranza Illustrated by Rafael Mayani Published by: Annick Press ISBN: 9781773216102

Things aren’t being shared evenly in the chocolate supply chain. The chain starts with millions of farmers who produce cocoa and ends with the billions of consumers who enjoy chocolate. But what about the bit in between? This section is dominated by a handful of chocolate giants that profits from keeping the cocoa purchasing price as low as possible. As a result, farmers are forced to live in poverty... leading to illegal child labor and forced labor. Our vision: 100% exploitation free chocolate. Not just our chocolate, but all chocolate worldwide."

Abuelita and Me Written by: Leonarda Carranza Illustrated by Rafael Mayani Published by: Annick Press ISBN: 9781773216102

This poignant story illustrates how those who do not speak English in our country can feel shamed and discriminated against. A young girl and her grandmother go about doing their everyday errands - shopping at the grocery store and riding the bus. The lack of communication causes cold dismissal or anger from the grocer and the bus driver. The grandmother feels humiliated, and the young girl is frightened. The young girl becomes too afraid to go out. But with the love and encouragement of her grandmother, they face their adversities together with strength and dignity.

Eve Panzer reviews books for Reader Views Kids as well as her own business, Barefoot Librarian. Monthly she publishes the Barefoot Librarian Newsletter.She sells children’s books published by Barefoot Books and Usborne Books & More at book fairs, educational conferences, community events, and online. She earned her Masters in Library and Information Science from the University of Texas in Austin and worked as a school librarian before retiring to start her own business.

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BOOK OF THE MONTH

THE CHATGPT BUSINESS PLAYBOOK Kaden Kashner Independently Published (2023) ISBN 979-8859646906

85 track with the wisdom to know and understand how and when to use AI strategies. This wonderful guide can act as your business coach to lead you through challenging, multi-faceted jungles. Using ChatGPT, which is driven by OpenAI, your business strategies have just been made easier. The ideas in this book have been tested and used, so the information isn’t just theory. The advice is concise, given with clarity and critical thinking delivered by AI, not a team of consultants or traditional expert advice...If you aren’t that familiar with AI, it’s okay. This book will explain it in easy-to-understand terms. For a thorough guide to how AI can work for you and take your business to the next level, “The ChatGPT Business Playbook: AI-Driven Strategies and Formulas for Business Success” by Kaden Kashner is a must-read. Reviewed by Tammy Ruggles for Reader Views (12/2023) “ The ChatGPT Business Playbook: AI-Driven Strategies and Formulas for Business Success” by Kaden Kashner is an important play-by-play guide to maximizing your potential in the business sector by using AI-driven ideas and techniques. Regardless of which stage you are in as you grow your business or entrepreneurial plan, artificial intelligence can help you reach your goals. Kashner offers tools you can use every day and gives practical steps to keep you on

To Read complete review visit readerviews.com

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BOOK OF THE MONTH

POSEIDON’S ATLANTIS ADVENTURE JM done

Grace Allison (2023) ISBN 978-0998830827 Author Grace Blair

encha nted Reviewed by Kathy Stickles for Reader Views (12/2023) I am an absolute sucker for anything that involves Greek gods and mythology (yes everyone, think Percy Jackson books, which I adored) so “Poseidon’s Atlantis Adventure: The Human Hybrid Experiment ” immediately appealed to me simply because of the title. I am so happy to say that it is a great book and the beginning of this new series by Grace Blair. It is so very exciting for me to have what looks to be a new and different series wrapped around one of my favorite topics... “Poseidon’s Atlantis Adventure” is a very well-written story that gives the reader a glimpse into the world of the gods where they do not actually stay in their own spaces but venture out to find something new and better. The writing is excellent and very descriptive so that the reader gets a true glimpse into these mythical worlds. The story is filled with action that keeps it moving along at a great pace, so the reader is never bored with the plot or the characters, who are all well-developed and interesting. I would recommend “ Poseidon’s Atlantis Adventure: The Human Hybrid Experiment ” to anyone out there who enjoys a well-paced and interesting story as well as to everyone who enjoys immersing themselves in the world of the gods and mythology. I, for one, cannot wait to see what happens next in the series. It should be a very interesting ride. 85

To Read complete review visit readerviews.com

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Meets the Author

Elaine Kozak

Thank you for your questions. Growing up, I didn’t aspire to be a writer (nor did I aspire to be a winemaker) but life takes interesting turns. I’ve always had a busy imagination, however, and many years ago characters and their stories began crowding my mind. Why not write them down? I thought, and here we are. Although intended to stand alone, Rhapsody in a Minor Mode f ollows from my second book titled T he Lighthouse where Niels Larsen is a minor character. A question about Niels arose from The Lighthouse and I decided to explore it in what became Rhapsody in a Minor Mode Hi Elaine. Welcome to Reader Views! What inspired you to become a writer, and how did that journey lead you to write Rhapsody in a Minor mode ?

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What inspired you to set part of Niels Larsen’s transformative journey in Spain, specifically in Seville? Could you elaborate on how the location acts as more than just a backdrop, perhaps even as a character in itself, within the story? I like to write about places and subjects that interest me, as Spain does. Beyond that, after learning the secret of his origins, Niels effectively deconstructs himself and assumes a peripatetic life in a container ship, a hard, static, colorless environment. When he arrives in Seville, he enters a warm, dynamic city full of color and passion, conditions which inspire renewal and regeneration. A place where his phoenix can rise out of the ashes. Tiago, the enigmatic gypsy guitarist in Spain, plays a pivotal role in Niels’ journey. How did you conceptualize this character, and what does he symbolize? I don’t consciously conceptualize characters. They just sort of present themselves, as the gitano guitarist did. He serves as a kind of spirit guide for Niels on his inward journey. Niels Larsen finds himself at a crossroads, torn between a newfound life in Spain and his roots in Canada. Could you discuss the inspiration behind using this geographical dilemma as a lens through which to explore Niels’ deeper internal conflicts? 85 Rhapsody in a Minor Mode is about a young man’s search for identity after learning a shocking secret about his origins. Questioning the basis and even the fact of his existence, and realizing that his life to that point has been shaped by others’ ideas of who and what he should be, he abandons his studies, his soul-mate, and his family to embark on a journey of self-discovery. So, let‘s begin. What is Rhapsody in a Minor Mode about? In my previous book, The Lighthouse, others know Niels’ secret but he does not. After completing that book, I wondered how Niels would react if he ever found out, and that is the point of departure for Rhapsody in a Minor Mode. Life can turn on what on the surface appear to be innocuous or inconsequential comments, events, or experiences. The significance of the phenomenon isn’t always immediately apparent and often its effect can be benign or beneficial, like when you suddenly gain an understanding about someone or something. But sometimes it challenges everything you know and value and tears you apart, as happens to Niels. The life of your main character, Niels Larsen, changes dramatically due to a shocking secret revealed by a casual remark at a New Year’s party. Can you discuss how you decided on this particular revelation as a plot point, and also speak to the power of seemingly inconsequential moments serving as catalysts for life-altering changes? It’s the universal dilemma of anyone who has left home to transcend the constraints of their past–especially the persona assigned to them by the assumptions, definitions, and expectations of their family and cultural context. Years after he set off on his journey, Niels recognizes that it is through his experiences in Spain that he became the man he is and lives the life he does, both of which he values greatly. Yet the pull back to home and family is strong—paradoxically, it’s in Spain that he comes to fully understand the meaning and importance of family. The contrast between the misty, blue-gray dreaminess of Pacific Canada and the heat, earthy colors, and vibrancy of Andalusia underline this tension.

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The old musician and the enigmatic gypsy guitarist, Tiago, engage in philosophical dialogues with Niels Larsen. Could you elaborate on how these characters either mirror or challenge Niels’ own beliefs and life choices? The philosophical dialogues that occur between Niels and important people in his life are not abstract, but reflections by older and wiser folk to help him interpret and draw meaning from his observations and experiences. They mark the progression of his personal growth and maturity. Your book has been compared to Paulo Coelho’s “The Alchemist.” How do you feel about this comparison? I have not read The Alchemist but having seen the synopsis of the book I can understand why readers might see similarities in the storylines of young men embarking on a journey of discovery and self- actualization. But while the young shepherd in The Alchemist is spurred on by a dream of treasure, Niels in Rhapsody in a Minor Mode is fleeing a nightmare. How did you balance the existential themes with the romantic storyline? Were there challenges in merging the two? The rupture in the romantic relationship is intended to show how profoundly Niels has been affected by the news he learns and how extreme the disconnect from his former self and life is. He feels shame and fears Aude’s judgment–he is not the man she has known and loved. How to relate to her is one of the many questions he needs to resolve. The cello and Flamenco are not just musical elements; they seem intricately tied to Niels Larsen’s personal journey and transformation. Could you discuss the pivotal role that music plays in the emotional and thematic fabric of the story? I f music is not actually in Niels’ DNA, he was exposed to it from such a young age and with such intensity that it becomes the medium through which he interprets the world. As a child he chooses the cello as his instrument during a lonely and difficult time, anthropomorphizing the ones that change and grow with him. Abandoning music is a major element in disconnecting himself from his past life. Yet it’s through this medium, although with a more combative instrument and in a more adult and much grittier mode, that Niels redefines himself.

Read Full Interview

ABOUT ELAINE: Elaine Kozak came to writing after several fascinating careers. She designed and sold information-retrieval systems, worked on policy and agreements to expand international trade, and, with her husband, planted a vineyard and established an award-winning winery. This last experience inspired Elaine’s first book, a vineyard mystery titled Root Causes. She followed it with The Lighthouse, a family saga set in New Mexico. A question about one of the characters in The Lighthouse intrigued her, and she wrote Rhapsody in a Minor Mode to answer it. Elaine now lives in Victoria, Canada.

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AUTHORS

& BOOKS

NOFICTION-SPIRITUALITY/LBGTQ+

NONFICTION-POETRY/NATURE

NOFICTION-POETRY/LBGTQ+

Big Wing Review Issue 01: Nature Kat Sabatini, Big Wing Press (2024) Author: Kat Sabatin ISBN: 978-8218329891 Tradeback / 60 Pages

Divinely Timed Author: Carol Selick

Austin Macauley Publishers, LLC (2023)

Tradeback / 284 Pages ISBN: 978-1638293996

$11.95

VIEW ON AMAZON $24.94

VIEW ON AMAZON

Nadia goes on a journey after dealing with bad relationships and heartbreak. She feels that something missing in her life and starts exploring new love, spirituality and diving deeper to question religion. On this journey Nadia learns more than she ever expected and was leaves the reader wanting more.

Big Wing Review No. 1: Nature is an anthology celebrating the most impressive poets, authors, and multi-media artists in 2024. This book is not a purely romantic view of nature. Nor is it a rigid caution against climate destruction. Through flora, fauna, and human relationships, the works in this issue chart an emotional map where we can seek to rebuild the bridge between our inner world and nature.

FICTION-CRIME ACTION/ADVENTURE

NONFICTION-ESPIONAGE THRILLER

Life has Other Plans Author: A. Gavazzoni Self-Published KDP/Adriana Gavazzoni/Brazil (2021)

Sketches of Life Author: A. Gavazzoni

ASelf-Published KDP/Adriana Gavazzoni/Brazil (2019)

EBOOK / 521 Pages ISBN: 978-1708164669

Tradeback / 368 Pages ISBN: 978-0998553917 $16.99 VIEW ON AMAZON

$15.99

VIEW ON AMAZON

In the middle of WWII, France surrendered to Germany, and young Lily, half French and half American, her life now turned upside down. Lily must leave France and go to her father’s homeland, taking her mother with her...Ninon is a survivor. Alone in the world, she works as an exotic dancer in a French cabaret... an epic tale of people trying to adapt to a world in turmoil—one that's filled with surprise secrets..

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Grand Prize Winners!

2022 LITERARY AWARD FICTION

www. readerviews com/literaryawards

Your paragraph text

Marisa Billions

Alex Thornbury

Elizabeth Conte

View in Amazon

2022 LITERARY AWARD NON-FICTION Grand Prize Winners!

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Your paragraph text

Gary S. Berger

Michael DiRuggiero

Ron Malhotra

Emily Tsitrian

View in Amazon

CHAPTER

FIRST CHAPTER PLUS COLUMNIST

The Worst Thing You Ever Did

By Dawn Colclasure ASIN B0CQ5KBFX4 View in Amazon

Within the pages of this book are tales of possession and terrors too evil to imagine. An urban legend about a demon-possessed killer in the woods is put to the test by a group of teens who will face the most terrifying of their lives. A cursed comic book turns a young boy into a monster's pawn, all the while transforming him into an evil artist whose creations come to life. A ghoul's gifts to children come with a heavy price. A group of teens celebrating the last day of school awaken the next day haunted by ghostly images of their victims from cruel and horrible events from their past. And a teen boy is tricked into exploring the haunted hallway of an abandoned house, unaware of the evil that lurks within. Just before you think you can walk away from the worst thing you ever did, getting away with a crime no one could ever hold you accountable for, think again! These five stories will send shivers down your spine! Think twice before crossing paths with the unknown, for it will lead you to horrors lurking in the shadows. encha nted

85 Dawn Colclasure is a writer who lives in Oregon. She reviews books for Reader Views. She is also a freelance writer. She is the author of several books. Her work has appeared in magazines, newspapers, websites and anthologies. Her websites are www.dawnbooks.com and Her Twitter: @dawncolclasure.

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FEATURED BOOK & AUTHOR

The

by Elizabeth Upton Ghost Writer

Synopsis

After the sudden death of Jenna's best friend Padma, Jenna discovers her unfinished story and vows to complete it in her honor. Set in medieval times, Jenna struggles with it until Padma steps in and helps her from beyond the grave. Jenna becomes a ghostwriter, guided by a ghost. When Jenna travels to Scotland’s Dunnottar Castle for research, she meets Sir Thomas deKeith, the handsome clan chief who captures her attention and her heart.

Publisher: Bowker Identifier Services (2022)

Fiction - Historical Tradeback - 561 pages ISBN: 9781732017559 $15.99 VIEW ON AMAZON

" This is a refreshing, gently compelling story rich in adventure and fantasy as well as real-life triumph over grief and loss. It is welcome respite for any reader weary of 21st century strife.” ~Amazon review - M.R. Wilson

"It would appeal to fans of historical romance who like a dash of paranormal thrown in." ~Judge, 10th Annual Writer's Digest Self-Published E-book Awards

I consider myself fortunate in that I was raised in a family that valued learning. By the time I entered kindergarten, I knew how to read, print, and write in cursive. Bedtime stories were a mainstay, and trips to the local library were as regular as those to the grocery store. I had no way of knowing then, but they were instrumental in my becoming a writer. I'm all grown up now, writing historical fiction stories that I hope will find their way into the hands of an eager reader, ready to embark on an adventure that I've imagined, crafted, and tucked between the covers.

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None of these books have been on recent bestseller lists (which, by the way, have been known to be rigged, one famously in the last decade with no word on how many others have done so without getting caught!) None of these books are real classics--the kind you might have detested in high school. Most have been popular in relatively recent history and a couple are books I bet Oprah would have picked if she had been doing that when these books were released. Why not give one or all a try? Sandwich them in somewhere between the romance, crime, and psycho-stuff that so many of us keep on our night stands. Here it goes:

" To Kill a Mockingbird" by Harper Lee. This is one of my favorites of all time.

Because I so often hear, "I don't read literary novels," or even, "What's a literary novel?" I've compiled a list that I think might convince those who think they hate them to try reading them-- at least every so often. Those of you who already love literary, will find at least one or two books that aren’t already in your library .

"A Painted House" by John Grisham. A recent favorite that few called "literary" but got blasted by Grisham’s fans anyway because, I think, they were all expecting the same old, same old (many of which I loved, too, especially to study his masterful construction of settings!) "The Chinchilla Farm" by Judith Freeman. It’s been around awhile but it one of the few good pieces of fiction set in Utah where I set my first novel. "Dear Corpus Christi" by Eve Caram. This is a lovely little piece by my first writing teacher at UCLA and winner of an instructor’s award from than university. It deserves wider readership. “ A Child of Alcatraz" by Tara Ison. This writer is relatively unknown—still, even after writing several well read and well loved novels. Google he by name. She is a novelist and a screenwriter (no one ever gives screenwriters much credit so very few are famous regardless of the fact that their talent or the lack thereof can make or break a movie). She has taught writing at UCLA and at Antioch University. “ The Sixteen Pleasures" by Robert Hellenga . Apart from an occasional lapse in drawing his female characters truly, this book, set in Florence during the Arno’s infamous destruction, is a winner. Hot! Not a Ten Hot, but hot enough.

By Carolyn Howard-Johnson

(This is an updated reprint from Carolyn’s“Back to Literature”

column at MyShelf.com, a lovely review website that is no more).

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" The Wedding" by Dorothy West. This was West's first and only novel because she didn’t get around to storytelling until she was in her last decade. She breaks rules and makes it work. She also makes us understand a portion of black history and black intolerance that many of us didn’t know existed. And she inspired one of the chapters in my multi award-winning, out-of-print novel, “This Is the Place” available on Amazon new and used feature only. (That means I get no royalties!) "Travels with Charlie” by John Steinbeck is not fiction but it is literary. You might enjoy seeing nonfiction written with passion and style and artistry. Charlie was the last book Steinbeck wrote and the culmination of years of honing his craft.

"Dandelion Wine" by Ray Bradbury is a touching novel that will be loved by those who liked the first book on this list. It beats his “Fahrenheit,” though far less famous.

"Dr. Zhivago" by Boris Pasternak. This book is worth the struggle required to sort out the Russian names. Hundreds of thousands of readers did it a few decades ago when we weren’t all so spoiled by authors who too often now cater to short attention spans and formulaic writing.

Okay. So that's 10. I'll make it a baker’s dozen. No, more than that. A gift for readers who love nonfiction best. (Keep reading.)

“Anna Karenina” by Leo Tolstoy. This is a novel that holds up over the decades, especially for women (and men) who still suffer from gender prejudices.

"This is the Place" (see above) by Carolyn Howard-Johnson. It's a little romantic, a little memoirish, a little historical, a little women's. They're all good categories but I prefer a little literary. If I didn’t include this book among my favorites, I wouldn’t be giving you the truest list possible. Maybe my next novel should examine the mirror image twins of false pride and false modesty as its premise. For those swear that never read fiction, try James A. Michener. His novels are nonfiction-fat and researched so well that I have most of his annotated with marginalia to pass along to my grandkids when (if!) they are ever receptive! I liked “Hawaii” best. The paperback kept me busy on my subway rides to work in 1960 and the white paperback cover is still tainted by New York City soot.

85 M ore About This First Chapter Plus Contributor: Learn more about Carolyn Howard-Johnson at http://HowToDoItFrugally.com . Use her social networks for more resources, ideas, helpful books and more. For more writers’ resources on Twitter: http://twitter.com/FrugalBookPromo. For resources and more personal fun on Facebook: http://facebook.com/carolynhowardjohnson. For writers resources of all kinds: https://sharingwithwriters.blogspot.com. Idea: Get your cover images on Pinterest; you pin one of your author’s book cover images, let her know you did it with your Pinterest link, and she’ll pin one of yours: http://Pinterest.com/chowardjohnson.

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85 Short story collections satisfy the anticipation of being told a story. Humans have enjoyed the moment of being told a story for centuries, quite a lot like how we often enjoy sitting around a campfire sharing stories. And we like to tell stories, too. As Umberto Eco wrote in his novel, The Island of the Day Before (Mariner Books, 2006), "To survive, you must tell stories." When there’s no one around to tell a story, a collection of short stories meets that need. Wills also noted, “My favorite collections are the ones by Stephen King, but the most recent one I really enjoyed was written by Nick Roberts called It Haunts the Mind and Other Stories (Crystal Lake Publishing, 2023).” Want to hear a story? With a collection of short stories in one book, you can. These books offer readers the opportunity to settle in for a story to read, which is a great way to pass some free time or to add a bit of excitement to your day. Each story in a short story collection can normally be read in one sitting, which is great for readers who don’t have a lot of time to read entire chapters. “Short story collections are one of my favorite types of books to read,” Brandon Wills, author of the horror story collection, An Inspiration for Your Nightmares (PsychoToxin Press, 2023), said. “I like bite-sized stories in that you can read them quickly, and if they're well-written, they can contain a deep, detailed story that you don't need to read 300 pages to accomplish. I also enjoy feeling like I want more after finishing each one.” How Short Story Collections Offer Bite-Size Entertainment for Readers BY DAWN COLCLASURE

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I think we all want to be told a story,” Robert P. Ottone, author of the horror short story collection Wrapped in Plastic and Other Sweet Nothings (JournalStone, 2023) said. “Whether that’s in epistolary form or whatever kinds of trickery the author is playing with us, a good story is a good story, with or without the window dressing. We’ve told stories around the campfire since the beginning of time. The spread of local legend and folklore. The historical value of a people. It’s all through the power of storytelling.” Short story collections come in a variety of shapes, sizes and genres. Some story collections include drabbles (stories of 100 words), while others include flash fiction, which are typically stories written in one thousand words. These books are available in a variety of genres. These books are typically categorized into one genre. My own book of short stories, The Worst Thing You Ever Did (PsychoToxin Press, 2023) is a collection of YA horror stories. There are also collections of science fiction, romance, paranormal and children’s stories as well. Readers and writers alike enjoy short story collections for both entertainment and instruction. Wills reads these books both as a writer and a reader. “I write a lot of short stories, so these collections influence me quite a bit,” he said. “I pay attention to the way they flow, the emotions they evoke, and the pacing, so I can try to make my own stories just a little better with each new one.” As you read a short story collection, you may come across a story you don’t particularly enjoy. The best thing about these books, is that you can skip over a story without feeling bad that you’re missing out on the rest of the book. There are still other stories to read. There is no rule saying you must read every single story in these books. I have often skipped a story or two if they are not to my liking. Some short story collections include art. I am currently reading Jon Richter’s Dark Fiction (Independently Published, 2023) and the accompanying illustrations by David T. Wilby really add better imagery and creativity to the stories. Short story collections can be a great diversion, as well as an entertaining way to pass the time. Whether you have them as ebooks on your reader to read in the car or as a cure for boredom on a rainy day, these books can serve as entertaining reading and provide short doses of adventure and escape. 85

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HOW TO PLAN YOUR WRITING FOR 2024

STEP/01

01 - DEFINE YOUR WRITING GOALS: CLEARLY OUTLINE YOUR WRITING GOALS FOR 2024. THESE COULD INCLUDE COMPLETING A NOVEL, PUBLISHING A CERTAIN NUMBER OF BLOG POSTS, WRITING ARTICLES FOR A SPECIFIC PUBLICATION, OR ANY OTHER WRITING-RELATED OBJECTIVE.

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02 - BREAK DOWN YOUR GOALS:

DIVIDE YOUR ANNUAL GOALS INTO SMALLER, MANAGEABLE TASKS. FOR EXAMPLE, IF YOUR GOAL IS TO WRITE A BOOK, BREAK IT DOWN INTO WRITING A CERTAIN NUMBER OF PAGES OR CHAPTERS EACH MONTH. 03 -CREATE A WRITING SCHEDULE: ESTABLISH A REALISTIC WRITING SCHEDULE BASED ON YOUR DAILY, WEEKLY, AND MONTHLY COMMITMENTS. CONSIDER YOUR PEAK CREATIVE TIMES AND ALLOCATE THOSE PERIODS FOR WRITING. BE CONSISTENT WITH YOUR SCHEDULE TO BUILD A WRITING ROUTINE. SET MILESTONES FOR EACH MONTH OR QUARTER TO TRACK YOUR PROGRESS. MILESTONES CAN HELP YOU STAY MOTIVATED AND GIVE YOU A SENSE OF ACHIEVEMENT AS YOU REACH EACH ONE. 05- COMFORTABLE WRITING ENVIRONMENT: SET MILESTONES FOR EACH MONTH OR QUARTER TO TRACK YOUR PROGRESS. MILESTONES CAN HELP YOU STAY MOTIVATED AND GIVE YOU A SENSE OF ACHIEVEMENT AS YOU REACH EACH ONE. 04 - SET MILESTONES:

06 - IDENTIFY WRITING PROJECTS:

LIST ALL THE WRITING PROJECTS YOU PLAN TO WORK ON DURING THE YEAR. THIS COULD INCLUDE NOVELS, SHORT STORIES, BLOG POSTS, ARTICLES, OR ANY OTHER TYPE OF WRITING. PRIORITIZE THEM BASED ON DEADLINES OR PERSONAL IMPORTANCE.

07 - RESEARCH AND RESOURCES:

STEP/01 09- BALANCE DIFFERENT TYPES OF WRITING: IF YOU'RE WORKING ON MULTIPLE PROJECTS OR TYPES OF WRITING, FIND A BALANCE THAT SUITS YOU. FOR EXAMPLE, ALLOCATE CERTAIN DAYS OR TIMES FOR CREATIVE WRITING, EDITING, AND RESEARCH. 08 - CREATE A WRITING ENVIRONMENT: SET UP A CONDUCIVE WRITING ENVIRONMENT. WHETHER IT'S A QUIET CORNER IN YOUR HOME, A LOCAL CAFE, OR A DEDICATED WORKSPACE, ENSURE IT PROMOTES FOCUS AND CREATIVITY. IF YOUR WRITING PROJECTS REQUIRE RESEARCH, PLAN TIME FOR IT. IDENTIFY THE RESOURCES YOU'LL NEED, SUCH AS BOOKS, ARTICLES, OR INTERVIEWS. ALLOCATE SPECIFIC PERIODS FOR GATHERING INFORMATION. 10 - PLAN FOR EDITING AND REVISION: FACTOR IN TIME FOR EDITING AND REVISING YOUR WORK. THIS IS A CRUCIAL STEP IN THE WRITING PROCESS, SO ALLOCATE SUFFICIENT TIME TO POLISH AND REFINE YOUR DRAFTS.

STEP/01

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11 - STAY FLEXIBLE:

BE OPEN TO ADJUSTMENTS IN YOUR PLAN. LIFE MAY BRING UNEXPECTED CHALLENGES OR OPPORTUNITIES, SO IT'S ESSENTIAL TO ADAPT YOUR WRITING SCHEDULE ACCORDINGLY.

12 -SEEK FEEDBACK AND SUPPORT: IDENTIFY WRITING GROUPS, BETA READERS, OR MENTORS WHO CAN PROVIDE CONSTRUCTIVE FEEDBACK. BUILDING A SUPPORT SYSTEM CAN HELP YOU STAY MOTIVATED AND IMPROVE YOUR WRITING.

13 - REFLECT AND ADJUST:

REGULARLY ASSESS YOUR PROGRESS AND ADJUST YOUR PLAN AS NEEDED. IF CERTAIN GOALS ARE PROVING TOO AMBITIOUS OR IF NEW OPPORTUNITIES ARISE, BE FLEXIBLE AND ADAPT YOUR WRITING PLAN ACCORDINGLY.

BY FOLLOWING THESE STEPS, YOU CAN CREATE A COMPREHENSIVE PLAN TO GUIDE YOUR WRITING ENDEAVORS THROUGHOUT 2024.

REMEMBER THAT CONSISTENCY AND ADAPTABILITY ARE KEY TO ACHIEVING YOUR WRITING GOALS.

STEP/01

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