blogespresso

May 15, 2026

It Came From the Trees and Other Violent Aberrations

𝗕𝗼𝗼𝗸: It Came From the Trees and Other Violent Aberrations 📚
𝗔𝘂𝘁𝗵𝗼𝗿: Joel McKay ✍️
.
.

“It Came From the Trees and Other Violent Aberrations” is a gripping collection of dark fiction that blends horror, science fiction, and fantasy into a fast-paced and unsettling reading experience. From the very first story, “It Came From the Trees,” McKay establishes a tense atmosphere with vivid descriptions, grotesque imagery, and a strong sense of isolation. The setting deep in the forests of British Columbia makes the horror feel immediate and believable.

The anthology includes original stories that explore fear, violence, and human vulnerability through different genres and scenarios. McKay’s writing style is immersive, with sharp dialogue, well-paced action, and a knack for building dread before unleashing chaos. The inclusion of author commentaries after each story is a thoughtful touch, offering readers insight into his creative process, inspirations, and storytelling decisions.

This collection is a strong choice for readers who enjoy horror with imaginative concepts. Fans of creature horror, survival narratives, and eerie speculative fiction will likely find this anthology memorable. I had a great time reading this book. I am definitely interested in reading more books by the author in the near future.

• 𝗠𝘆 𝗥𝗮𝘁𝗶𝗻𝗴: 5/5

Buy a book on Amazon

May 13, 2026

The Journey, Not the Destination

𝗕𝗼𝗼𝗸: The Journey, Not the Destination 📚
𝗔𝘂𝘁𝗵𝗼𝗿: Dr. Steve Hudgins ✍️
.
.

In this book, the author shares his personal journey along with the lessons he learned along the way. With promotions, achievements, and stability, Steve once believed his life was leading him toward a clear destination. Over time, however, he realized that the places and experiences that shaped him the most were never the ones he had planned to reach.

As readers go through this book, they are encouraged to let go of emotional burdens and create space for clarity, peace, and freedom. It beautifully reminds us that broken families are not always the end of the story, sometimes, they mark the beginning of a new mosaic.

The chapter Unexpected Detours highlights an important truth: life does not always unfold according to our plans. Unexpected turns often challenge our understanding of family, faith, and perseverance, ultimately helping us grow in ways we never anticipated.

This book reminds readers that the journey matters more than the destination. Both the broken and beautiful moments in life play an essential role in shaping who we become. The wisdom shared throughout these pages inspires readers to reflect on their own journeys and consider how their experiences are molding them into the people they are today.

I truly enjoyed reading this book and look forward to exploring more of the author’s work in the future.

• 𝗠𝘆 𝗥𝗮𝘁𝗶𝗻𝗴: 5/5

Buy a book on Amazon

May 13, 2026

Interview with author Ivy Maria Elmore-Hickman

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

A1. Before embarking on my writing journey, I earned a B.A. in Speech and Drama and pursued a career in the entertainment industry. Guided by my “DIY” spirit, I created, wrote, illustrated, and self-published The Adventures of the Popcorn Kids. I am a proud native of New Orleans and a former certified early childhood educator. Despite my struggle with severe narcolepsy, I have worn many hats as a Flight Attendant, On-Air Radio Personality, Paralegal, and Attorney in-Fact. Although my career path has been diverse, I believe that every opportunity was essential to my personal growth and creativity.

2. What is the inspiration behind your book “The Adventures of The Popcorn Kids”?

A2. When I began teaching, I was offered a position at my old grammar school which was located in a low income area. I was inspired to write this book, because I wanted my students to know that the “Hood” was not the entire world. I knew that I could not take the students out of the hood to see this “great big world”. So, I created THE ADVENTURES OF THE POPCORN KIDS to bring the “great big world” to the hood.

In this culturally diverse society, it is imperative that our young children are educated at an early age about the vast number of cultures and ethnicities that exist around the world and in our community. Teaching young children to respect other cultures and identities is essential to the progress of our communities and nation as a whole.

3. When did you realize you want to be an author?

A3. When I was in 5th grade, my mom gave me a Holly Hobby diary and I wrote in it every day. I loved to write and I was fascinated with books. The Book Mobile would come once a month and I just could not wait to check out the new book from Judy Blume. Because of my vivid imagination and love for the theatre, I knew that I wanted to be an author.

By the time I graduated from college, I had written dozens of unpublished songs, poems, short plays and movie scripts. But finding a publisher back when there was no high speed internet, was nearly impossible. It was not until Self Publishing became popular, that I realized that my dreams of becoming a “published” author was possible.

4. Please tell us something about your book “The Adventures of The Popcorn Kids”.

A4. The Popcorn Kids is an Early Childhood Value Book that gives a subtle introduction to five important social constructs: 1.) Anti-bullying 2.) Cultural Diversity 3.) Teamwork 4.) Acceptance and 5.) Positive Thinking. The (8) bright neon colored characters are the personification of little children from all around the world ages (5) to (7).

Each character has a distinct place of origin, ethnicity, personality and talent. However, the one thing that they do share in common, is that they were all “popped”(born) in America! Through acceptance, respect and teamwork, the Popcorn Kids develop a great friendship. Together they experience fun-filled adventures, while fighting bullies along the way. The book is now available on Amazon at https://www.amazon.com/dp/B0F9FRJV7X

5. For which age group is your book “The Adventures of The Popcorn Kids?

A5. When I created The Popcorn Kids, my main focus was writing for Pre-K and Kindergarten students. Although the reading skills level of the manuscript would be categorized as a Level 1, the cognitive thinking concept and message can typically be appropriate for toddlers to third graders.

The Popcorn Kids were meant to be loved by children of all ages. Therefore, I created an animation film for small children who aren’t able to read and those who struggle to read. The animation film is entitled: THE OFFICIAL ADVENTURES OF THE POPCORN KIDS. The (3) minute film brings the Popcorn Kids story to life. It is currently available on Youtube:

THE OFFICIALS ADVENTURES OF THE POPCORN KIDS.
https://youtu.be/FAR0j9LOsZw?si=1S4Wfe-THvK4tAw6

6. What is your favorite Quote?

A6. When I was in second grade, my favorite teacher posted several sayings throughout the classroom. But there is one quote that still resonates with me today. That quote is “Failling To Prepare .. Is Preparing To Fail.” The reason it is my favorite is because it can literally be applied to any one of life’s situations. It is self explanatory and simple. But yet so meaningful.

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

A7. What I love most about America is that it is the only country in the world that permits people of all races, genders, religions, creeds and cultures, the opportunity to apply for legal citizenship. It is the land of milk & honey, freedom of speech and the home of the brave. My family has been here for hundreds of years. America is home to the most fluential and successful people that ever lived. I could never imagine living anywhere else.

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

A8. One of the greatest gifts a parent can give to a child is a “good reading habit”. In general, children typically have a low attention span based on their age bracket. Therefore, I would suggest the following: First, designate a quiet reading space. Second, choose a specific time and stick to it! Good habits are derived from repetition and routines. Next, keep your reading time under (15) minutes. Try to provide visuals that coincide with the storybook whenever possible. For example: If the story is about a bunny, then allow the child to hold a stuffed bunny during story time. You may reflect on teaching moments at the end. But always remember to make it fun!

9. What does literary success look like to you?

A9. Literary success to me is achieving my goal of making The Popcorn Kids a household name. Let’s face it, every author dreams of the day when their book gets listed on The New York Times Best Sellers Lists. Or better yet, get offered a major distribution or movie deal. Until my ultimate vision of literary success becomes my reality, I will continue “Doing what I love and loving what I do”. While eating a great big bag of POPCORN.

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

A10. My greatest inspiration in life comes from my very own little Popcorn Kid, my daughter Melody Joi! Everything I do in life is in preparation of securing a bright prosperous future for her. Children are our most precious gifts and we should treat them that way. My parents instilled values worth more than gold within me and my (8) siblings. If I succeed in instilling those same inspirational values into my daughter, then I have achieved one of life’s greatest accomplishments.

May 12, 2026

Nuggets of Hope

𝗕𝗼𝗼𝗸: Nuggets of Hope: Cultivate Kindness 📚
𝗔𝘂𝘁𝗵𝗼𝗿: Kim Lengling ✍️
.
.

Nuggets of Hope: Cultivate Kindness by Kim Lengling is a warm and uplifting book that reminds readers of the extraordinary power hidden in ordinary acts of kindness. Through personal stories, reflections, and practical advice, the author shows how even the smallest gesture: a smile, a kind word, or a thoughtful act can create a ripple effect in someone’s life. The concept of “Nuggets of Hope,” represented by small stones shared with strangers, gives the book a memorable and heartwarming theme.

Lengling shares real-life encounters with people facing grief, loneliness, illness, and hardship, illustrating how compassion can become a source of healing and connection. These stories allow readers to see kindness not as a grand ideal, but as a daily practice accessible to anyone. The inclusion of practical tips, conversation etiquette, self-kindness, and ways to teach compassion to children adds extra value.

Nuggets of Hope is an encouraging read for anyone seeking positivity in a chaotic world. Its message is simple yet impactful: kindness matters, not only for others, but for our own emotional and physical well-being too. While the themes are straightforward and repetitive at times, that repetition reinforces the book’s purpose of making kindness a conscious habit.

• 𝗠𝘆 𝗥𝗮𝘁𝗶𝗻𝗴: 5/5

Buy a book on Amazon

May 12, 2026May 12, 2026

Sisterhood Sleuths Monthly Magazine Volume 1, Issue 1 – 2026

𝗕𝗼𝗼𝗸: Sisterhood Sleuths Monthly Magazine Volume 1, Issue 1 – 2026 📚
𝗔𝘂𝘁𝗵𝗼𝗿: Cathy Warshaw ✍️
.
.

Sisterhood Sleuths Magazine offers a refreshing mix of storytelling, education, and interactive fun that feels perfectly tailored for curious young readers. The magazine stands out for its cohesive theme of mystery and discovery, weaving together fictional adventures with real-world learning opportunities. Its clean layout and engaging visuals make it easy to navigate while maintaining a sense of excitement throughout.

The puzzle and activity sections are particularly impressive, offering challenges that are both fun and mentally stimulating. From decoding ciphers to solving riddles, these features encourage readers to think analytically while staying entertained. Hobby-focused articles provide practical insights, helping readers explore their interests and even consider turning hobbies into meaningful pursuits.

Beyond its activities, the magazine shines in its message. It consistently promotes self-belief, creativity, and curiosity, especially through features highlighting young achievers and community-driven initiatives. This positive and encouraging tone gives the magazine a deeper purpose, it doesn’t just aim to entertain but also to inspire readers to explore, learn, and grow with confidence.

• 𝗠𝘆 𝗥𝗮𝘁𝗶𝗻𝗴: 5/5

Read here

May 12, 2026

The Founder’s Treadmill

𝗕𝗼𝗼𝗸: The Founder’s Treadmill 📚
𝗔𝘂𝘁𝗵𝗼𝗿: David Grau Sr. ✍️
.
.

The Founder’s Treadmill is a highly practical book that addresses one of entrepreneurship’s biggest hidden struggles: burnout caused by over-involvement. David Grau Sr. clearly understands the mindset and habits that keep founders stuck, and he presents these challenges in a relatable and straightforward way.

The book stands out because it combines mindset shifts with operational strategies. Readers are encouraged not only to rethink their role within the company but also to implement processes, hire intentionally, and establish accountability systems. The included reflection prompts and checklists make the learning experience interactive and easy to apply.

This is more than just a business book, it’s a roadmap for founders who want to escape constant hustle and create healthier, more scalable companies. Whether you’re an early-stage entrepreneur or managing a growing business, The Founder’s Treadmill offers valuable lessons that can transform how you lead and operate.

• 𝗠𝘆 𝗥𝗮𝘁𝗶𝗻𝗴: 5/5

Buy a book on Amazon

May 10, 2026

The God Hunter

𝗕𝗼𝗼𝗸: The God Hunter 📚
𝗔𝘂𝘁𝗵𝗼𝗿: Annette Griffin & Franella Smith ✍️
.
.

The God Hunter is a beautifully written children’s story that gently explores grief, faith, courage, and healing through the eyes of a young Kenyan boy named Simi. After losing both his father and grandmother, Simi sets out on a nighttime journey through the jungle to “hunt for God” and demand answers for his pain. The story is deeply moving because it captures the honest emotions children often feel after loss: anger, confusion, loneliness while presenting them in a way that is understandable and comforting for young readers.

As Simi travels through caves, rivers, and tall grasses, each encounter teaches him something about protection, wisdom, and love. Rather than offering simple answers about grief, the authors allow Simi’s journey to unfold naturally, making the ending feel sincere and powerful. Young readers will likely connect with Simi’s bravery and curiosity, while parents and educators will appreciate the thoughtful spiritual themes woven throughout the narrative.

Through this book, the authors remind children that it is okay to bring sadness, anger, and fear to God instead of hiding those feelings. Annette Griffin and Franella Smith have created a meaningful story that encourages emotional honesty, resilience, and faith. Parents should add this book to their children’s bookshelf.

𝗠𝘆 𝗥𝗮𝘁𝗶𝗻𝗴: 5/5

Buy a book on Amazon

May 10, 2026

Evie Who Feels Everything

𝗕𝗼𝗼𝗸: Evie Who Feels Everything 📚
𝗔𝘂𝘁𝗵𝗼𝗿: Kalee Boisvert ✍️
.
.

Evie Who Feels Everything is a beautifully written children’s book that explores emotional sensitivity through the story of Evie, a little girl who feels everything deeply. From sadness over small moments to being moved by kindness, music, and even nature, Evie experiences the world with an intensity that makes her feel different from those around her.

This book gently addresses the experience of being called “too sensitive.” Many children and even adults can relate to feeling misunderstood because of their emotions. Read this book to find out what Evie will learn from her teacher.

This is a heartfelt and reassuring book that promotes emotional intelligence, self-acceptance, and kindness. The story encourages children to embrace their feelings rather than be ashamed of them, making it especially valuable for highly sensitive kids or families wanting to discuss emotions openly. Evie Who Feels Everything is a warm reminder that a caring heart is a gift, not a flaw.

𝗠𝘆 𝗥𝗮𝘁𝗶𝗻𝗴: 5/5

Buy a book on Amazon

May 9, 2026

Interview with author Jenna Greene

Q1 Could you please start by introducing yourself to our readers?

A1. My name is Jenna Greene and I am a children’s/ middle grade/ young adult author. (What are adults? Ew). I have been writing for 25 + years, which is odd because certainly I can’t be that old! I raise two stubborn and sassy ‘tweens and teach full time in Southern Alberta. I’m a dedicated dragonboat coach and semi-clumsy dancer.

Q2 What would you say is your strength as an author?

A2. I think my world-building is fairly strong. Even if I write in a contemporary setting, there is likely a fantastical twist. I love dystopian literature and people who are pulled through portals. The empowerment of youth through literature, as the characters rise to challenges they never thought they could endure, is fascinating to write, especially when I get to thrown magic and creatures and foreign societies at them. It’s invigorating.

Q3 What is your favorite part from your book ‘Broken Realm’?

A3. I think I like the fact that these two characters, Briggs and Keely, grow and learn together. While disparate in personality and ability, they reflect the opposites attract and opposites empower vibe that comes when someone recognizes your difference and is proud of it, instead of threatened by it. They grow from strangers to enemies to partners and saviors… and eventually fall in love. (Although that love is threatened, of course)

Q4 How do you handle literary criticism?

A4. Stephen King’s writing isn’t my cup of tea, but I doubt he’s crying into his coffee every morning, wondering why I won’t read Misery. Art is subjective. It is personal. It is open to interpretation and digestion. People are allowed to like/ dislike a genre, a narrative, or a character. It’s not the end of the world if someone doesn’t like my writing style or topic because, as a reader, I don’t like every book I encounter. Writers, like dancers and actors, need to develop a thick skin. Criticism is necessary to improve art. Writers need an audience, who are allowed an opinion.

Q5 What do you like about audiobooks?

A5. I drive for a long period of time each day, so they are nice to fit into my schedule. And hearing a voice narrate a tale, instead of the one in my head, is enjoyable, as it is another layer of interpretation of the story.

Q6 How has the experience of writing and publishing a book influenced your perception of yourself?

A6. I think I’ve gained some confidence, which has allowed me to take more risks with my writing and become a more ruthless editor. I trust my ideas and process more, allowing for better quality of work.

Q7 What, in your opinion, are the most important elements of good writing?

A7. A good plot is a must, with dimensions of conflict. There needs to be a variety of internal and external conflict, with the impact of decisions having repercussions. Characters need to feel natural, with as many flaws as strengths, just like true people. It takes a while for writers to find their niche, whether that be poetry, short story, genre, age group.

Q8 What is your work schedule like when you are writing?

A8. I spend most of my time daydreaming, which means staring into space or going for a walk. The actual writing of the scene at my computer is the lesser part of the process. I go scene-by-scene for the most part, though I have over-arching themes and plot that guide me. I am not quite a plotter and not quite a pantser. I guess I’m a planser? Honestly, each book goes on its own journey, with each process being a bit different for each tale. Some I’ve written in 2-3 weeks. Others have taken years.

Q9 What is the significance of the title ‘Broken Realm’?

A9. The idea that a reality has been shattered is found all over literature. In the case of Keely and Briggs, this is both figurative and literal, as their innocence is stripped and so is their physical home. They have to endure great shifts and trials while they help to heal an unfamiliar realm.

Q10 What did you want to be when you grew up?

A10. I wanted to be a fairy princess. I think a writer is a fine back-up.

Buy a book on Amazon

May 7, 2026

A Tree Frog’s Eyes: Haiku

𝗕𝗼𝗼𝗸: A Tree Frog’s Eyes: Haiku 📚
𝗔𝘂𝘁𝗵𝗼𝗿: David E Navarro ✍️
.
.

A Tree Frog’s Eyes: Haiku by David E. Navarro is a thoughtful and meditative collection that beautifully captures the quiet wonders of nature and everyday life. Through carefully crafted haiku and occasional senryu, Navarro invites readers to slow down and observe the subtle details often overlooked in daily routines. From winter snowfalls to blooming spring flowers, mountain landscapes to ocean shores, each poem reflects a deep appreciation for the natural world and the fleeting moments that make life meaningful.

The poems are organized around seasons, landscapes, flora, fauna, and human experiences, creating a journey that feels both personal and universal. Navarro also offers valuable insight into haiku traditions, Zen influences, and his own poetic philosophy, helping readers better understand the depth and intentionality behind his work. This makes the book not only a poetry collection but also an educational exploration of haiku as an art form.

A Tree Frog’s Eyes is an enjoyable read for poetry lovers, nature enthusiasts, and anyone seeking moments of stillness in a busy world. The collection succeeds in honoring traditional haiku sensibilities while adding the author’s personal voice, making it a rewarding experience for both newcomers to haiku and longtime admirers of the genre.

• 𝗠𝘆 𝗥𝗮𝘁𝗶𝗻𝗴: 5/5

Buy a book on Amazon