𝗕𝗼𝗼𝗸: The Adventures of Myron and Swimmy: “One for Myron” 📚 𝗔𝘂𝘁𝗵𝗼𝗿: Mario Nacinovich ✍️ . .
🚀 𝐑𝐞𝐯𝐢𝐞𝐰: The Adventures of Myron and Swimmy: “One for Myron” penned by the author Mario Nacinovich and illustrated by Nadia Ronquillo is an interesting read. The main character of the story is a canyon tree frog named Swimmy. Swimmy loves exploring and learning new things about the world around him.
One day, Swimmy met Myron, a cactus elf. Myron told Swimmy that every day, he finds ostrich eggs that are the largest eggs around. Swimmy joined this adventure with Myron. He started looking for round shaped objects that looked like an egg. Will the two of them be successful in their mission?
This book is for readers of the age group 3-8 years. It teaches kids the power of teamwork and friendship. The language used in the book is lucid and kids would be able to understand it easily. The cover photo is eye-catching and I loved every bit of this book. Great work done by the author in it.
Q1. Hello, can you please introduce yourself? Readers would love to know more about you.
A1. I suppose I’ll start with my name, which is Pierre – although I was born Peter in Los Angeles. My family moved to Geneva, Switzerland when I was a toddler, where I became-and remained-Pierre. I moved back to the States in my late twenties and took on various jobs. None particularly intellectually challenging. I started to play chess fairly seriously. In 1975, I co-authored a book on chess openings. My publisher, knowing of my interest in math, asked me if I could write a book on, the then new-to-market, calculators. It did fairly well, picked up by some mathematical book clubs. I then approached McGraw Hill about publishing a book that would contain the major historical documents of the world. That idea came to me as the Watergate scandal was exploding and I wanted to read the U.S. Constitution for myself. The Internet wasn’t yet a thing and I couldn’t find the text in my (large) bookshelf. McGraw Hill immediately approved the project and that became my third book (although I am listed as Editor.) To help with my research, I needed to compile various databases. I built various personal computers from kits (ALTAIR, IMSAI, etc.) and immediately realized that I had to teach myself software programming. This got me sidetracked for decades! I eventually taught computer science at various universities. During these years, I also developed and patented new technologies for radio receivers that eventually became part of a U.S. national standard. But to be closer to my potential licensing clients (the big guys in Japan), I moved to Hong Kong, where I stayed for eleven years. Right after the start of the World Wide Web, I started a small website called the Classical MIDI Archives. Upon my return to the states in 1997, I moved to Silicon Valley, close to Stanford, and continued to develop the site which eventually became ClassicalArchives.com, one of the largest classical music sites in the world. As one of my passions is astrophysics and cosmology, I got involved with Stanford’s physics department. In my spare time, I try to visit as many labs and research centers as I can. This brought me to the deepest mines, the highest observatories and other fascinating locations around the world. I even spent time at the South Pole. Asteroid (32890) Schwob has been graciously named after me. I am one of longest serving member of the SETI Institute’s Board of Directors. Now that AWE: A technothriller (focused on climate change, AI, fake news, and international cooperation) is out, I am thinking of writing another novel, addressing the benefits and dangers of AI.
Q2. What were the key challenges you faced while writing your book “AWE: A technothriller”?
A2. As AWE is my first novel, I had to learn to “kill my children:” to remove characters, whole passages, even entire chapters. Serve the story. Another challenge was the immense amount of research I had to undertake. Particularly as the science and technology is so fast-moving in the areas the novel covers.
Q3. What books or authors have most influenced your own writing?
A3. A tough question as I read fairly voraciously. But my taste centers on science, foreign affairs, history (even older works like Edward Gibbon’s The Decline and Fall of the Roman Empire, Will and Ariel Durant’s The Story of Civilization), and thrillers. I can name Stephen Greenblatt’s The Swerve, Carl Sagan’s entire output, Stephen Weinberg’s The First Three Minutes, Lenny Susskind, Brian Greene, Sean Carroll, and many others. As to thrillers, I’ve read John Sandford’s Prey entire series twice(!), Daniel Sylva, Jason Matthews, and many others. Matthews’s Red Sparrow was an inspiration for my offering a playlist in my book (a classical music work to play at the beginning of each chapter), although that idea also sprang from an experience I had when I read a novel at fourteen while my gramophone was playing in the background–recounted on my website (www.prs.com).
Q4. What’s your favorite spot to visit in your own country? And what makes it so special to you?
A4. I am a Swiss/US dual citizen. I suppose that I have to mention Stanford University for its beautiful Romanesque campus and contagious intellectual ferment. Otherwise, I shouldn’t miss mentioning the Swiss Alps and their meadows. Gorgeous wild flowers in the spring and summer, and glorious snow in winter. (Learned to shoot down airplanes-on-a-wire from my troop carrier there, while in the Swiss Army.)
Q5. What inspired you to write the book ‘AWE: A technothriller’?
A5. While some will take offense, it was the deplorable response to COVID-19 from a previous administration, its reckless lack of interest in climate change, and the self-sabotaging China Initiative (thankfully ended but now rearing its ugly head again.)
Q6. How long did it take you to write your book ‘AWE: A technothriller’?
A6. About a year to write a complete draft. Another year to massage it into shape. And then three weeks to select and build the playlist, available on ClassicalArchives.com.
Q7. On what platforms can readers buy your books?
A7. Amazon, as a hardcover, paperback, or on Kindle–both in a flowing text, and as a print-replica. (The latter for those who wish to enjoy the author-selected fonts.) You can also find a link to Amazon’s AWE page on my website at http://www.prs.com, where readers can read more about the book, the playlist, contact me, or ask for a personalized signed bookplate.
Q8. Tell us about the process of coming up with the book cover and the title ‘AWE: A technothriller’?
A8. As the main themes of the book is climate change and rigorous science, I wanted the cover to be simple and direct. I selected an image of the Earth taken by a NOAA satellite. The title is an acronym for “Artificial Wisdom Engine” – an AI which becomes one of the novel’s protagonists.
Q9. When writing a book how do you keep things fresh, for both your readers and also yourself?
A9. I’ve never given a thought to this. The creative endeavor never seems to get stale. I find that developing a plot is very much like playing chess, when you have to think ahead many moves, offering hints that presage the action to come. The key is to continuously place unexpected obstacles that the protagonists must overcome. I get a lot of help from my characters as they evolve. As most authors will tell you, they do take a life of their own. And their personalities, likes and dislikes, strengths and weaknesses, particularly their sense of humor (when they have one), help keep things interesting.
Q10. What is the most valuable piece of advice you’ve been given about writing?
A10. I’ll repeat what I said earlier: learn to “kill your children!”
𝗕𝗼𝗼𝗸: BARD: Bearer of the Gemstone 📚 𝗔𝘂𝘁𝗵𝗼𝗿: Dan Watt ✍️ . .
🚀 𝐑𝐞𝐯𝐢𝐞𝐰: “BARD: Bearer of the Gemstone” by Dan Watt is a gripping dark fantasy novel. The protagonist, Bran, is the son of a blacksmith who helps in his father’s workshop. Two years ago, a mysterious girl entrusted him with a gemstone necklace, saying, “When we’re older, it will guide you to me.”
Bran is accepted into Esfinge Bard Campus, where his father urges him to spend four years earning his journeyman’s markings. Although Bran is reluctant to leave home, his father assures him that becoming a Bard will allow him to explore the entire continent or go wherever he wishes. He also reminds Bran to stay strong and never forget his blacksmith roots. As Bran embarks on his journey into manhood, he faces numerous dangers, all while remembering his mother’s advice to one day return the gemstone to its rightful owner.
The author’s writing is engaging, with a vivid imagination evident in the world-building. The book’s pacing keeps the reader engaged, and the suspenseful storyline ensures you’re hooked until the very end. The cover art is striking, and the title is perfectly suited to the story.
𝗕𝗼𝗼𝗸: The Ultimate Bet 📚 𝗔𝘂𝘁𝗵𝗼𝗿: Frank Victoria ✍️ . .
🚀 𝐑𝐞𝐯𝐢𝐞𝐰: If you’re a poker enthusiast, “The Ultimate Bet” by Frank Victoria is a must-read. The story begins in the spring of 1962, when Jim is first introduced to poker—a game already familiar to him through his father and uncles, who often played at family gatherings. With twenty eight cents in his pocket, Jim played his first game with Danny.
After losing that initial game, Danny points out that Jim is too cautious when it comes to calling big bets. This moment teaches Jim a crucial lesson: a strong bankroll is essential to success in poker. Determined to improve, Jim takes on odd jobs, and by the time he’s in seventh grade, he has saved up twenty-one dollars. Armed with more experience and confidence, Jim challenges Danny again and this time, emerges victorious.
As they move into high school, Danny offers Jim a partnership in the poker world, but Jim refuses when he discovers Danny’s intention to cheat. The story then takes an intriguing turn as Danny plots his revenge, involving Jim’s girlfriend in his scheme.
This novella is a page-turner, perfect for anyone who enjoys fast-paced stories with unpredictable twists. Jim’s character development is compelling, and the plot keeps you on the edge of your seat, eager to see what happens next. Frank Victoria has crafted a captivating story, and readers will undoubtedly look forward to more of his work.
𝗕𝗼𝗼𝗸: Tales of the Whirling Rainbow 📚 𝗔𝘂𝘁𝗵𝗼𝗿: Steven McFadden ✍️ . .
🚀 𝐑𝐞𝐯𝐢𝐞𝐰: “Tales of the Whirling Rainbow: Myths & Mysteries for Our Times” penned by the author Steven McFadden is to clarify the myth and inspire people to seek ways to bring heaven to earth and regain paradise.
The author has told a tale of the legend of the rainbow warriors. Steven has mentioned how because of unrelenting greed, the world has become sick. Some awakened souls would restore the Sacred Hoop and would be the Warriors of the Rainbow. They would become examples of right living and would bring an end to the destruction of the Earth. The rainbow warriors have to be dedicated and strong of heart.
In the chapter “New Period of the Sun”, Don Alejandro reminds people to respect Mother Earth and to stop destroying water, air and mountains. Everyone needs to come forward and bring this change. The rainbow teachings are true and we need to be at our spiritual best.
This book made me grateful to the indigenous people for sharing their ancient teachings. I am grateful to the author for reminding us that now is the time to bring the change. The title of the book is suitable. It is a unique read that inspires those who read it. It is a thought provoking read that is engaging and requires each of us to act to restore the Mother Earth.
𝗕𝗼𝗼𝗸: Danny’s Reading Problem and the Fun He Had Fixing It! 📚 𝗔𝘂𝘁𝗵𝗼𝗿: Nita Marie Clark ✍️ . .
🚀 𝐑𝐞𝐯𝐢𝐞𝐰: “Danny’s Reading Problem and the Fun He Had Fixing It!” penned by the author Nita Marie Clark and illustrated by Kathy N Doherty is an interesting read. The main character of the story is a young boy named Danny. He was struggling to read and suddenly he remembered that his dad told him we need smart people to solve our problems.
Danny told his Grammy that he is struggling to read. His Grammy came up with a plan to help him. She suggested that he watch a movie with his Gramps and try to read the words in the title. He can use his third eye to visualize the words and use his ears to listen to the sound of each letter.
Read this book to know if Danny will finally learn to read. This book inspires kids to seek help from smart people when they struggle. The title of the book is suitable. The way Danny’s grandparents helped him is amazing. The illustrations made this story more lively.
𝗕𝗼𝗼𝗸: Only Oliver 📚 𝗔𝘂𝘁𝗵𝗼𝗿: Maggie Jamerson ✍️ . .
🚀 𝐑𝐞𝐯𝐢𝐞𝐰: The story follows a young boy named Oliver on his first day of school. Unlike his classmates, Oliver isn’t excited because he’s worried about being the only one who can’t read. His teacher, Miss Green, begins by introducing the sound of the letter ‘o.’
As Miss Green teaches the class simple three-letter words, Oliver struggles to keep up. When she asks the students to come up with three words using the /o/ sound, the question arises: will Oliver be able to do it?
This heartwarming book sends a powerful message about perseverance and the importance of practice in learning. It also encourages children to support their peers who may be struggling. The story is both engaging and inspiring, making it a wonderful read for kids. I thoroughly enjoyed sharing this book with my nephews and appreciated its creativity. I’m eager to discover more books like this one.
🚀 𝐑𝐞𝐯𝐢𝐞𝐰: ‘Way of Freedom’ penned by the author C. B. Rein is an intriguing fantasy story. Zlata Tajra is the main character of the story. Zlata told her doctor that she is experiencing the side effects of her medicine and she always feels dizzy, sleepy and has headaches. Zlata’s father passed away five years ago and she is curious to know the reason for his death.
Visiting a cemetery is a ritual for Zlata as her family is there. When she recently visited there, she was locked in the cemetery. Zlata saw a statue who pulled out a sword. She thought it must be a dream. She started seeking answers to what happened to her father and about her panic attacks.
In another dimension, Zlata met Chavdar, the leader and director of the Itzals. Zlata needed to be trained but her power is not enough to be an Itzal. Zlata also asked many things from Dlaka. Will Zlata survive in the new complex world?
The storyline is gripping. Those who enjoy reading fantasy stories should get their hands on this book. The cover photo is nice. The characters are well developed. I appreciate the vivid imagination of the author in the world building. This book is for avid readers only.
Q1. Hello, can you please introduce yourself? Readers would love to know more about you.
A1. My name is Frank Demith. I am an Army veteran having served twenty-eight years on active duty. I am also a 1983 graduate of the United States Military Academy. I currently live in Martinsburg, WV.
Q2. What were the key challenges you faced while writing your book “Of Vital Interest”?
A2. I wanted to make sure to make my book something that anyone could enjoy. That meant that I would have to add some detail about what was happening and limit the use of acronyms. I also wanted to make sure to include some strong secondary characters in addition to the main characters. There are many different story lines in the book, but I thought they were essential in telling the story and letting the readers have a deeper understanding of what our men and women in the Armed Forces go through when they deploy to a foreign country,
Q3. What books or authors have most influenced your own writing?
A3. I enjoy reading all books but am mostly interested in the classics and modern suspense/thrillers. My favorite authors have been Dickens, Tolstoy, Tom Clancy, Vince Flynn and Harold Coyle.
Q4. What’s your favourite spot to visit in your own country? And what makes it so special to you?
A4. That would have to be my Alma Mater, the United States Military Academy. It is packed with history and amazing views. I will always feel indebted to this institution for allowing me to become the person I am today. It was an amazing experience which has resulted in a wonderful life.
Q5. What inspired you to write the book ‘Of Vital Interest’?
A5. I wanted to share stories of the amazing people I had a chance to work with while in the Army. Each character in the book is a compilation of several individuals I came across while serving in the Army. Not much had been written about the contributions of immigrants to the war effort so I wrote this book for the more than 1500 individuals who joined the Army to serve as interpreter/translators.
Q6. How long did it take you to write your book ‘Of Vital Interest’?
A6. I wrote this book in 90 days.
Q7. On what platforms can readers buy your books?
A7. My book is available through a number of online sources to include: Barnes and Noble; Amazon; Target; Walmart and dozens of other utlets. Individuals who would like a signed copy can contact me through my website at http://www.frankdemithauthor.com
Q8. Tell us about the process of coming up with the book cover and the title ‘Of Vital Interest’?
A8. The title is taken from another program which also recruited individuals for their language and cultural expertise. That program was called Military Accessions Vital to National Interest. The book cover is my way of illustrating the conflict between the two main characters and highlighting the fact that there are different shades of reality in war depending upon an individual’s perspective but the one commonality is bloodshed.
Q9. When writing a book how do you keep things fresh, for both your readers and also yourself?
A9. I am a very structured writer. I spend several weeks developing an outline that covers main points for each chapter, and then I do short character sketches. That keeps me focused on writing and allows me to move through the storyline without leaving things out. I also like to use foreshadowing as I write to give the readers that “Oh yah” momement when they realize something had been said earlier about that topic.
Q10. What is the most valuable piece of advice you’ve been given about writing?
A10. That would be “write what you know”. It sounds so simple but it is so important for me. I enjoy writing fact based fiction, and I’m not really making things up, I am telling stories. Hopefully they willl continue to be stories that others can enjoy.
𝗕𝗼𝗼𝗸: The Founders’ Plot 📚 𝗔𝘂𝘁𝗵𝗼𝗿: Frank Victoria ✍️ . .
🚀 𝐑𝐞𝐯𝐢𝐞𝐰: The narrative opens with Mike, now in his late 40s, preparing to deliver a pivotal speech as he steps into his role as the newly elected governor of California. The following day, he takes the oath of office, with his wife, Josephine, and their three daughters by his side. Mike’s supporters are not opposed to immigration, but they are adamant that it must be done legally.
Determined to address the issue, Mike begins drafting a stringent immigration law. This proposed legislation aims to make life difficult for those who have entered California illegally, with plans for deportation and strict measures to prevent further illegal entry. However, Mike is cautioned that immigration policy is a federal matter, and he should tread carefully.
As Mike immerses himself in his new role, Josephine starts to feel increasingly sidelined. Mike, however, is unwavering in his belief that the courts have made poor decisions and are abusing the ‘elastic clause.’
The tension builds as Mike’s bold stance raises questions about the future. The author’s deep understanding of the complexities between state and federal jurisdictions enriches the story, creating a gripping atmosphere. The well-crafted setting, coupled with unexpected twists, ensures that readers remain engaged until the very last page.
Sassy Reviews 