Author: blogespresso

Book: My Roots And My Wings

Q1.Please introduce yourself so that the readers will get to know you better.

My name is Shari Jonas, I’m a Mom to 2 incredible young adults. I’ve graduated from McGill University with a Bachelor’s degrees in Psychology and a Masters degree in Human Relations and Family Life Education. I’m the author of Father Effects: How Your Father Influenced Who You Are & Who You Love. Last year, during Covid, I began creating content on social media to share my experiences and knowledge about family relationships and what I discovered is that parents are really concerned and very interested in learning how to help their children to thrive.

Q2. What is your inspiration behind your book “My Roots and My Wings”?

My Roots and My Wings was born out of an expression that I have always used to describe how I brought up my children. Raising my “little adults” was not just about teaching them to tie their shoes or ride a bike. I knew that they needed to develop a strong sense of self, to feel good in their own skin, and develop self-esteem. My philosophy has always been, if you know who you are and you like who you, then you’ll be less interested in being like everyone else.

Q3. When did you realize you want to be an author of Children’s Book?

The impetus behind writing this children’s book was to help parents talk to their children about what matters most in life. Building a strong foundation of self-awareness, self-expression, compassion, and respect, will enable children to better cope with life. The 24 lessons are designed to empower a child and build their self-confidence because that is truly the key to their personal and social happiness.

Q4. Are you planning to release your next book soon?

The research for my next book began before I wrote, My Roots and My Wings. I’ve been very concerned, almost obsessed with understanding how and why so many young people today are struggling with anxiety. What’s changed since I was a kid? Why aren’t they coping? If it’s because of social media, we must do better. Our children aren’t built to last anymore, emotionally of course, and I want to change that. But before I could delve into how to handle and overcome anxiety in adolescents, I thought that I should write a book geared towards very young children, a book that would lay the foundation for a healthy mindset, therefore preparing them for the social pressures and expectations that lead to anxiety. My Roots and My Wings puts the horse before the cart, but the cart or rather, my next book, is on the horizon. (I hope that makes sense!)

Q5. For which age group your books are suitable?

My Roots and My Wings should be for everyone because the lessons are truly universal. But it is geared towards children under the age of 10.

Q6. What is your favorite Quote?

So many to choose from! I have always love inspirational quotes, overcoming adversity quotes, empowering quotes…but for the purpose of this book, my favorite quote is by Frederick Douglas; “It’s easier to build strong children, than to repair broken adults.”

Q7. What do you like the most about your country?

I was born in Canada, but my father was an American citizen. So, I have spent my life travelling between both countries. In fact, I was born in Montreal and the culture there is very different than any other in North America. I love many aspects of both countries, but I can also admit that I’m not impressed with how our children are being affected by the social pressures and the lack of mental health resources that exist in both the US and Canada need to improve.

Q8. What suggestion you want to give to parents of little readers regarding a reading habit?

Children should be introduced to books as early as possible. My children had books for the bath, books that smelled like strawberries and pinecones, books that popped up when you opened them. Children learn to read faster with books, they learn to concentrate, they develop their imagination and of course, it’s great bonding for parents, especially when communicating is not always easy. Introducing books early builds character and creates readers for life.

Q9. What does literary success look like to you?

When something that you’ve created touches the hearts and minds of as many people as possible, when lives are changed, attitudes are shifted and people feel empowered by the words I have written, that is literary success to me.

Q10. Lastly, who is your inspiration in life and why?

There are so many people in my life who’ve inspired me. It’s one of the reasons why I feel so inspired to help others. We all learn from one another. But if I had to name a few, and these are definitely “dating me”, it would be people like Wayne Dyer, Abraham Hicks, Louise Hay and currently, Michael Singer, Gabrielle Bernstein and Glennon Doyle. But there are dozens of psychologists, spiritual teachers, motivational speakers, self-help gurus and even angels that have guided me my entire life. If you are truly a student of life, there are many teachers who will cross your path.

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My Roots And My Wings

Book: Meglet And Seb Experience A Magical Christmas

Q1. Please introduce yourself so that the readers will get to know you better.

My name is Meg Lester. I am a new author originally born in Philadelphia Pa and raised in the countryside. I have resided in Southeast England for almost 20 years after leaving my 2nd home of sunny Florida. I have a love of all animals especially cats and dogs. I enjoy walking in the countryside whilst using mindfulness to reconnect with nature which helps me to keep a check on my mental health.

Q2. What is your inspiration behind your book “Meg And Seb Experience A Magical Christmas”?

My inspiration behind my book was to remind me of a special relationship I had with my father. My story is based on a true family tradition as my family made Christmas so “Magical” when I was very little. My cat Sebastian “Seb” was one of a kind he was genuine and very loving. Over the years much of the world has become extremely materialistic So my little book represents you don’t need to have the biggest tree or 100’s of presents it’s about being with people you love and grateful for what you have.

Q3. When did you realize you want to be an author of Children’s Book?

I always enjoyed creative writing, unfortunately my teachers felt I wouldn’t going to amount to much of anything as I was clearly mediocre in all subjects. My real passion was to become a vet but never came to fruition. I started writing about my childhood memories after a 3rd accident which caused me to have grave mobility issues for years. When I was told by a physician “it’s time for a new career, something less physically demanding. Pick something you enjoy”. I knew this was my calling to begin writing; however it then took over 4 years to build up the confidence to have my book published.

Q4. Are you planning to release your next book soon?

The good news is I have 2 more books which should be published by 2023. I’m taking a pause in life so I can concentrate on my studies and volunteer work with those affected by substance misuse like myself.

Q5. For which age group your books are suitable?

My books are for early readers from age 3-5. I hope by reading with an adult they can learn the sometimes hidden moral of my story and feel the joy I express in my writing.

Q6. What is your favorite Quote?

Wow, to pick my favourite quote is very tricky. I have so many to chose from as I’ve created my own personal book of quotes I’ve collected over the years. I suppose it would be:
Today live with grace. Exercise compassion. Practice empathy. Show love. Be kind. Have faith in the future. Allow emotions. Be Gentle. Rest in hope. By:
Rachel Marie Martin
So many people need to learn, understand and put to practice this quote.
I try to embrace this daily.

Q7. What do you like the most about your country?

I am an American living in the U.K. I will always love and respect my home country. I’ve learned to love my new country and come to adjust to the weather to be honest. England has such beauty not only in the land but the people. Luckily, I’ve settled in the southeast where the weather can be less extreme. My children were very fortunate to have a wonderful education here. I’ve made my new “home” in a growing town not too far from London and only a short drive to the coast. I am very blessed.

Q8. What suggestion you want to give to parents of little readers regarding a reading habit?

When I was young I truly enjoyed reading alone or with a loved one. There’s something about sharing a story with someone. To be able to unlock a door of dreams, excitement or even fantasy. One can get truly lost within a book.
When I became a mother for the first time I made it a ritual to read with my child even before they could hold a book. Unfortunately my life changed dramatically in which I began to experience recurrent ill mental health and substance misuse. I wanted my children to have my love and the love of reading but sadly I was defeated and so my children did not continue my wish for them.
I’d say to new parents of little readers, you have been blessed take the time and read with your child it will help enrich not only their life but yours as well.

Q9. What does literary success look like to you?

I believe literary success comes from within. Each author has their own views and ambitions. Although I’ve written 20 true children’s stories based on my childhood I’ve only had 1 published so far which means I do not see myself as having a form of literary success. For me it’s not about money, this is my hobby. I’ll begin to believe I’m successful when people begin to have a conversation on the “hidden” morals in my books and have more awareness of mental health issues.

Q10. Lastly, who is your inspiration in life and why?

The inspiration in my life I’d have to say is my mother. She is such a strong and independent woman who taught me to believe in myself and do the best I can. Her morals and values were strong as she taught me about respecting and accepting all people no matter their race or religion. We are all human. When I lost myself to addiction she never lost HOPE in my ability to fight.

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Meglet And Seb Experience A Magical Christmas

Book: Tales from the Hamlet

Q1. Hello Ma’am, can you please introduce yourself? Readers would love to know more about you.

Hello, my name is Cassandra Campbell-Kemp, I’m 66, British and I live in England in a 350 year old coAage with my rescue cat, Felix. For over 30 years of my life I lived and worked in Europe – Italy, Greece and Spain – where I learnt the languages, fell in love with the people and their cultures and lived happily alone; though more oMen than not I was adopted by stray cats! I am fiercely independent, unafraid of being alone and I absolutely loved travelling and discovering new things.

Q2. What were the key challenges you faced while writing ‘Tales from the Hamlet’?

I’d actually wriAen my first book (Cauliflowers through the CaRlap) during the first Lockdown so I sort of knew how to put a book together. Writing Tales from the Hamlet, I think the key challenge was trying to decide what to put in and what to leave out, there was so much to tell. I am retired so I had all the time in the world to write and I loved sitting at my desk reminiscing about my time in Italy. In fact my biggest challenge was realising that I couldn’t get the entire story into one book, so I am about to start writing the sequel, which will finish the narrative off nicely. It will be published in the Autumn next year!

Q3. What books or authors have most influenced your own writing?

Eric Newby’s wonderful books – particularly Love and War in the Appenines (which was set in an area bordering the one I wrote about). He is so good at narrative, at presenting his characters and his life has been absolutely fascinating.
Peter Mayle and his A Year in Provence series, Frances Myles and her Under the Tuscan Sun series – the first of which was made into a movie. I like reading about the trials and tribulations of people living in a country that is not their own!
Bill Bryson, whose Notes from a Small Island (about Britain) and subsequent books were very influential. I love his writing style.

Q4. What’s your favourite spot to visit in your own country? And what makes it so special to you?

I think my favourite spot is actually the town where I live. We have a huge partly-ruined 11th century Abbey at the top of the High Street, which, in its time was a monastery and one of the greatest seats of learning in medieval Europe. I go and sit in the bit that’s still standing – which is now the church – and just chill. It’s so relaxing, so beautiful, so full of history and so inviting. I’m not religious but I certainly appreciate the sacredness of the space. The fact that it was also a monastery that produced some of the greatest thinkers of the early Middle Ages really appeals to me!

Q5. Are there lots to do before you start writing

Yes, I sit and stare out of the window a lot, I find my best ideas come from doing that. I then make many notes – I have notebooks full of usually indecipherable jottings. I also like researching the things that I write about so do a lot of fact-checking. Interestingly a number of people who have read Tales from the Hamlet have told me that they have fact-checked what I wrote, so it is important to get things right!

Q6. How long did it take you to write ”Tales from the Hamlet’ book?

About 5-6 months. I didn’t have a schedule, I just let it come. Sometimes my best ideas woke me at 3.00 in the morning. A particular event or word would reverberate around my brain, so I made sure to write it down as soon as I got up.

Q7. How did you decide to set the story in Italy?

I didn’t decide to set it there, I WAS there! The book is a Memoir. It is my story of my time inItaly.

Q8. Tell us about the process of coming up with the book cover and the title of your recentbook?

The book cover was illustrated by my very talented friend, Jill Bissenden. It is taken from a photograph of the Manor House where I lived. The title is as a result of how the book came about. While I was living in Italy I would write short blogs on my Facebook page called ‘Tales from….’ and it was my Facebook friends that encouraged me to turn them into a book. Blogs about my time in the Hamlet thus became Tales from the Hamlet. Though writing a blog and writing a book are very different things – as I soon found out!

Q9. When writing a book how do you keep things fresh, for both your readers and also yourself?

I think the main way of keeping things fresh is to stick to the rule ‘show, don’t tell’, to keep the chapters a manageable length and try to make each one interesting and where appropriate, amusing. Keeping it fresh for myself was more difficult, I’d lived it, so I had to make sure if it still interested me, then I could write about it.

Q10. Are there any secrets from the book (that aren’t in the blurb), you can share with your readers?

Yes – the Manor House was full of ghosts!

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Tales from the Hamlet

Book: Keep Pressin’ Pretty: A Guide On How To Slay From The Inside Out

Q1. Hello Ma’am, can you please introduce yourself? Readers would love to know more about you.

Hello, my name is Kisha Prince and I’m a person who loves life and is grateful for every moment I get to live and let live. I try to find the lessons and the goodness in the journey I have been allotted. I like to say that I am an empowerment enthusiast. I like to empower the people around me to be the best version of themselves. I am a child of God, mother, personal shopper and stylist, divorce coach, and a new author. I enjoy writing, listening to music, vacationing, relaxing next to a large body of water, good food and wine, decorating my house and spending time with family and friends.

Q2. What were the key challenges you faced while writing ‘Keep Pressin’ Pretty: A Guide On How To Slay From The Inside Out’ book?

One of the key challenges I faced while writing ‘Keep Pressin’ Pretty: A Guide on How to Slay from The Inside Out’ was having to channel and go back into the emotions and feelings I had while going through such a painful divorce to put it inside the book. It was exhausting and brought me to tears at times while writing it, but I wanted readers to feel what I felt in those moments. The process of writing this book was therapeutic for sure.

Q3. What books or authors have most influenced your own writing?

Dr. Myles Monroe and Sarah Jakes Roberts influenced my writing. They are both phenomenal, thought-provoking teachers and writers that leaves you empowered and energized. The late great Dr. Myles Monroe has inspired his listeners/readers to find their purpose and operate in it unapologetically and relentlessly. His book ‘Understanding the Purpose and Power of Women’ is one of my favorites. In it, he encouraged women to know who they are (with or without a man), what their purpose is and find innovative ways to exist in a culture and society that presents women with many challenges and obstacles.
I am also encouraged to be great and fearless after reading about and listening to Sarah Jakes Roberts. Her book ‘Lost and Found’ is a book full of hope and life lessons. Her testimony about having a child at a young age, her relationship with her father and growing up in the church is so relatable to me. Her testimony of overcoming and thriving after such difficult times in her journey, makes me want to never give up on myself. She also has a passion for fashion which is something we both have in common. It would be an absolute pleasure to style her one day.

Q4. What’s your favorite spot to visit in your own country? And what makes it so special to you?

My favorite spot to visit in the United States is California. It has the perfect weather, wonderful sceneries, lots of activities, great shopping, beautiful beaches and was a dream vacation of mine as a kid. Its special to me because growing up in such humble beginnings, California was just a place to go to in my dreams. I would watch the ‘Lifestyles of the Rich and Famous’ as a kid, but never thought in my wildest dreams I could ever afford to go somewhere so fabulous and prestigious.
In 2018, I was able to take my family on a trip there and to top it all off, we were able to sit on the front row in the audience of my favorite game show Family Feud. I can certainly say that dreams do come true.

Q5. Is there lots to do before you drive in and start writing a book?

For me it was finding the courage to be vulnerable and tell my story. It took time, help from God and my therapist to find my voice and the strength to write about something so personal. I had to think about the women I wanted to encourage and empower through my testimony of healing and deliverance while going through the most painful time of my life.

Q6. How long did it take you to write ‘Keep Pressin’ Pretty: A Guide On How To Slay From The Inside Out’ book?

It took me about a year to write this book after journaling off and on for years. The chapters about my self-esteem and my unhealthy relationship with shopping, were things I had realized and wrote about years ago, but never thought to put it in a book. It was only after going through my divorce I decided to write about my experiences, not only as a divorcee but as a multifaceted woman with many dimensions.

Q7. On what all platforms’ readers can find ‘Keep Pressin’ Pretty: A Guide On How To Slay From The Inside Out’ book to buy?

Readers can go to keeppressinpretty.com or Amazon.com for now.

Q8. Tell us about the process of coming up with the book cover and the title ‘Keep Pressin’ Pretty: A Guide On How To Slay From The Inside Out’?

Keep Pressin’ Pretty was an affirmation I came up with years ago to declare over myself when I was feeling less than and not good enough. While writing this book I thought Keep Pressin’ Pretty would be appropriate and indicative of the self-encouraging journey I was on. I wanted something to empower women to press pass what they are going through and remind them that they look better than what they been through.
‘A Guide on How to Slay from the Inside Out’ is the lesson I learned being a person who is a lover of styling and all things fashion. I was tired of slaying on the outside through clothing and accessories but feeling lonely and empty on the inside. As a woman trying to reinvent herself and be better (mind, body and spirit) while transitioning into this new chapter, God worked on me from the inside out. Now I not only dress the part, but more importantly I take pride in being the part.

Q9. When writing a book how do you keep things fresh, for both your readers and also yourself?

I think a writer keep things fresh for the reader and for themselves by just being authentic and as transparent as possible. I believe readers want something that they can relate to and see themselves in, and writers want to write about something they can be proud of that resonates with the reader in some way.

Q10. Are there any secrets from the book (that aren’t in the blurb), you can share with your readers?

I pretty much put everything in the description (blurb) to synopsize the book. But I will say that although this book is about me overcoming divorce, it is not about me bashing my ex-husband. My healing and the process of my recovery had little to do with him, but everything to do with how I saw and see myself.

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Keep Pressin’ Pretty: A Guide On How To Slay From The Inside Out