Apr 27 2021

THE LEOPARD LICKS ITS SPOTS by K. A. Mulenga

Author: susan • Discussion: No Comments

A lovely children’s book with an important message.

Leroy lives with his Mummy, Daddy, Grandma, and Grandpa. Grandpa Leopard, is Chief and the Judge of their group who live in the African Savannah. His grandpa’s roles hold big responsibilities, they are very important jobs which means he has to be very wise.

Leroy and Lapa are as usual playing together, when they see a misdeed occurring. Being good leopards they immediately report it to Grandpa Chief, who calls everyone and uses his fair judgement to deliver the correct punishment. Afterwards they hear him quote, as he usually does, the Zulu proverb “The leopard licks both its black and white spots.”

Some time later, the young leopard friends find themselves under the judgement of Leroy’s beloved Grandpa, and when it is their turn to accept the punishment Leroy thinks it is unfair. So Grandpa reminds them of his saying. When you read this story you will discover the very important meaning behind Grandpa Leopard’s wise words.

K. A. Mulenga brings to his children’s books not only important life lessons, but also allows his readers to learn about the proverbs of Zambia. These sayings are very true and have the same importance throughout the world. A lovely story which will be enjoyed by all young children.

About the Author:

My name is Kalenga Augustine Mulenga aka K.A. Mulenga. My passion is writing. I started writing when I was 10 years old and my passion was reignited by my 11 year old son. Writing runs in my blood as my late father was a journalist and the first black editor of the Zambia Daily Mail and my late brother was a poet. To date, I have published 9 children’s eBooks on Amazon. I love writing children’s books with a positive message and also to make them laugh and entertained. I am a prolific writer and currently have 8 edited and completed manuscripts.
I am busy with a memoir and after that I would like to write some fiction and non-fiction in the near future.
One of my books, Donk and the Stubborn Donkeys was #1 Bestseller Juvenile Fiction > Animals > Farm Animals

About the Book:

Leroy and Lapa are leopards and best friends. They live in the Savannah. Grandpa Leopard is the Chief and Judge of the leopards. His favourite saying is ” A LEOPARD LICKS BOTH ITS WHITE AND BLACK SPOTS”. Do you want to know what that means? Find out by reading THE LEOPARD LICKS ITS SPOTS.

Available from Amazon: https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B08NK4L76H/ref=dbs_a_def_rwt_hsch_vapi_tkin_p1_i6

Apr 26 2021

Retirement:Your New Adventure!: It’s your choice to decide if your windshield will be bigger than your rearview mirror

Author: susan • Discussion: No Comments

Learn to embrace the exciting opportunities retirement offers.

Bob Boylan, spent his career training middle and senior management to, “Deliver Training that Takes,” and has authored two books on the subject. Now retired himself, he has written this incredibly motivational book, which inspires readers to take responsibility for the rest of their lives, and offers positive suggestions and guidance on how to do so. He is a self-confessed seed planter, and boy does he do it well! After sowing the seeds in his reader’s minds, he explains what he means using examples, and invites you to use the suggestion as a discussion starter, in your head, or with friends and family.

Retirement happens at various ages now, no-longer is it necessarily sixty-five. However, it is, to some, an intimidating prospect. All of a sudden a routine, or a series of them disappear, and instead there’s this open space where order used to be, opportunities to do new things, and no time constraints, for some this can be scary.

This entertaining little book is a self-help guide for those who may be struggling with the loss of this structure. The author is here to help you explore and embrace all the fun, new, and exciting opportunities which await you.

Of course, there may be factors which will automatically affect the options available to you, your mind, body, or spirit may cause some restrictions. However, the author invites you to explore if these obstacles really exist, or are they a self-defence barrier erected against change? After all, some people love change, challenges and new things, but there are also others who don’t, and can’t see the ‘wood for the trees,’ as the saying goes.

You may want to get fitter, explore the world, or your own country more, stay up late, or take on a new hobby. Whatever you want to do the author is here to encourage you to look forward in life, after all as he rightly says, “There is a reason the windshield is bigger than the rearview mirror.” He encourages us to think outside the box, and even remove it, reach for our goals, and live those dreams.

Aimed at retirement, I have to say this book will inspire everyone who reads it to be the best they can be. Bob Boylan advises his readers to grab the proverbial bull by the horns, embrace the future, look forward, not back! As the famous quote says, “Life is not about the breaths you take. It’s about the moments that take your breath away.” Highly recommended!

About the Author:

Bob Boylan is a nationally known trainer that focuses on one thing …
“Delivering Training That Takes.” He travels throughout the country building up and reinforcing the abilities of middle to senior management as a presentation skills trainer. He has authored, What’s Your Point, Get Everyone In Your Boat Rowing In The Same Direction, Rebalance Your Tires and Brilliant Presentations in 24 Hours or Less.

Bob’s company, Successful Presentations, has trained business professionals for over 24 years to be more clear, crisp, and compelling. His clients become more interesting and passionate presenters. Their closure improves, their meetings get shorter, and their recommendations are approved more often. In short, his training helps his clients win more.

God’s Gifts Photography is another passion that is evident throughout this book. Linda and Bob travel locally and abroad to capture The Majesty and Art of God.

He is ready to talk to your group about ” the value of seeing your life through the lens of gratitude.” When you habitually see your life that way, you have a joyful, exciting and very fulfilling life! Bob delivers a strong, memorable, energized message to his audiences. He can be contacted at bob@life-beats.com.

About the Book:

As a reader, you are coming up on what you dreamed about, planned for and looked forward to for many years: retiring from your professional job and starting a new adventure.

The purpose of this book is to help you plan the adventure of your lifetime!

You can proceed to design and create what you’ve dreamed of for years, because it’s in your control.

This book will not deal with the financial side of retirement planning. This book is totally focused on ideas to help you create your new adventure of retirement.

You will be creating your own calendar. How’s that for a fresh start! How you choose to fill your calendar is up to you.

The author will help you focus on being useful and significant. Creative and productive. He will have you focusing on utilizing your abilities to help others, all the while giving you a tremendous feeling of satisfaction and usefulness.

The author stresses the point that you are in control of how you wish to think about planning your new adventure!

Available from Amazon: https://www.amazon.com/Retirement-Adventure-choice-windshield-rearview-ebook/dp/B08XJV1MZH/ref=sr_1_1?dchild=1&keywords=retirement+by+bob+boylan&qid=1619424102&sr=8-1

Apr 16 2021

Imbwa, The Story of the Dog and His Harsh Master by K. A. Mulenga

Author: susan • Discussion: No Comments

An enchanting children’s story conveying an important message.

As a dog loving family, I was immediately drawn to this story after reading ‘Donk and the Stubborn Donkeys’ by the same author. The incredible way this award-winning author conveys important life-lessons through short, beautifully illustrated stories, really keeps the attention of my two young granddaughters, and we all know that this is the way children learn.

This story contains a message which is very important to children. It is about two dogs, Imbwa the Rottweiler, and Galu the Great Dane. The two dogs are different breeds, but this doesn’t matter because the message in this story isn’t about them, it is general, transcending species. It is one of behaviour, of the way you should treat others, and how acting with kindness versus cruelty affects lives.

Imbwa, and Galu live next door to each other, and when they go to the park they meet. Galu is a happy dog, however Imbwa is always angry. Because they are friends they talk together and through their conversation, the child, or adult reader of the story to the child, discovers why the dogs are so different in temperament. They learn that the way the owners teach their dog right from wrong is the key, and that this in turn affects how the dogs understand things, and learn.

Through wonderful illustrations and based on the Bemba Proverb from Zambia, this beautiful heart-warming tale, sends a strong message for children, and adults alike. Highly recommended.

About the Author:

Author’s Website: https://www.kamulenga.com/

About the Book:

Imbwa the Rottweiler and his next-door neighbour Galu the Great Dane are best friends. They love going to the park with their human masters because it means they get to see each other and have fun playing together.
One day, the two friends meet in the park as usual and begin a conversation about their respective masters. While Galu’s master is always kind and gentle towards him, Imbwa’s master’s approach is rough and tough. Galu tells Imbwa how he is always happy, because of the way his master treats him. Imbwa, on the other hand, shares with Galu how living with his overly strict and unloving master is making him thoroughly miserable. As he chats with his best friend, he also realises that his master’s methods, which are intended to teach him learn life lessons and prevent him from repeating his mistakes, are actually teaching him nothing and only making him make even more mistakes.
Together, the two canine friends hatch a plan to help Galu. What are they planning and will their plan work out? Will Galu find the peace and happiness that he craves? Read on to find out!
The story of Imbwa and Galu will appeal to children because of its relatable themes. Firstly, it teaches young readers that sharing one’s problems with trustworthy friends can help one to feel better, reinforcing the concepts of “communication is key” and “a problem shared is a problem halved”.
This delightful tale also contains valuable life lessons about how mistreating others can cost you dearly and lead to isolation and loneliness, and how kindness towards others can go a long way to ensuring your happiness and that of those around you.

Available from Amazon: https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B08Z7S1GDP/ref=dbs_a_def_rwt_bibl_vppi_i1

Apr 12 2021

4 Ideas With Actionable Wisdom by Bob Boylan

Author: susan • Discussion: No Comments

A book everyone should read!

Sometimes you come across a book and think, “Everyone needs to read this!” Well for me this little gem is one of those. The author is a photographer, and owns God’s Gift Photography. He lives in Woodland Park, Colorado, with his wife Linda. When asked, “What do you do, Bob?” Bob responds by saying, “I am a seed planter of ideas to creatively encourage and inspire others.” And he certainly does that!

There are lots of self-help books which delve deeply into how you improve yourself in various ways, however, the author in this one, had a unique approach. Firstly he plants the seed of each of his ideas, then he sprinkles it with fertilizer, this being examples of how others have helped him see the advantage of the particular suggestion. Next the idea is nurtured, with ideas on how to go forward in a positive way, and then encourages the reader to enjoy the fruits of their labour.

He covers, as the title suggests, four ideas which he incites his readers to adopt. He believes these will enable them to live better, more fulfilled, and peaceful lives. The first is one he was taught by his father, and it is one which resonates with me, as my father told me much the same. His father told him to give 110% to everything, because that way you would have given your best and know you couldn’t have done more. As his father quite rightly said, “Because that’s all you can do, and you will sleep really well!”

In this busy world his second recommendation is, in my opinion essential. This is to always incorporate quiet waters in the busy white waters of your life. Or in other words find a peaceful, reflective time in your day. Here he first suggests journaling, something he considers very important, and quickly the reader will understand why.

The third is the importance of gratitude for what you have, and here he has given some lovely quotes, my favourite being “Gratitude and attitude are not challenges; they are choices. —ROBERT BRAATHE.”

And the last is a very pertinent one for the world today, and that is to think outside the box. As he points out, corporations always worked in offices before the coronavirus, now, all of a sudden people are working from home. Throughout the centuries necessity has forced change, but we can instigate change ourselves, changes which although they may be scary at first, enrich our lives, give us new priorities, and enable us to dream.

In this troubled and uncertain world, take charge. Do not lead a “woulda, coulda, shoulda life,” embrace this incredibly motivational authors ideas, and be the best you, for your physical and mental wellbeing. Highly recommended!

The author, in this cleverly written self-help book sows the seeds of ideas in his readers minds. Then he carefully nurtures them, encouraging personal growth and development.

An inspirational book which should be embraced by all.

About the Author:

Bob Boylan is a professional landscape photographer, author, nationally known presentation skills trainer, and self described “seed planter of ideas to creatively encourage and inspire others.” He has written books distilling his principles of presentation making, leadership, and life philosophy.

Author’s Website: https://www.bobboylan.com/

About the Book:

“4 Ideas With Actionable Wisdom” plants seeds of inspiration in the minds of readers who are looking to balance their lives, be more grateful, and increase creativity. If you’re interested in this book, congratulations! You’re fertile soil, ready to nourish these idea seedlings, reap the harvest, and improve your life.

These straightforward, implementable ideas are sure help you improve your life with intention. Are you ready to make effective life changes? Then this is the book for you!

Available from Amazon: https://www.amazon.com/Ideas-Actionable-Wisdom-Bob-Boylan/dp/1098361563/ref=sr_1_2?dchild=1&qid=1618219462&refinements=p_27%3ABob+Boylan&s=books&sr=1-2&text=Bob+Boylan

Apr 07 2021

Chains Across the River – A Novel of the American Revolution by Bevis Longstreth

Author: susan • Discussion: No Comments

This powerful and historically accurate book by retired international lawyer Bevis Longstreth tells the story of the incredible Machin Chains. Bevis Longstreth has previously authored three books of historical fiction, Spindle and Bow, Return of the Shade, and Boats Against the Current. Father to three children, and grandfather to nine, he lives in New York with his wife Clara, and dog McKenzie.

The protagonist, British born Captain Thomas Machin, was a brilliant engineer, enlisted in the British Foot, and posted to Boston, Massachusetts. However, disgruntled and disillusioned, the redcoat deserted, and like many others joined the patriots of the Continental Army.

Hearing of Thomas Machin, and impressed, in 1776 General George Washington summoned him and instructed him to design and install obstructions to stop the British Armada gathering in New York Harbour. This was an important commission because the Hudson River was an essential transportation route for the British. The waterway enabled the New England colonies to receive essential supplies, and therefore its obstruction would disunite them from their other colonies.

Thomas Machin, rose to the challenge, and the Machin Chains were conceived. However, their construction and installation proved to be a mammoth task. It is through the transportation and installation of these, and other events, that the readers learn a lot about the hardships and life of the Continental Army soldiers. Notwithstanding the adversity and obstacles involved, ‘The Great Chain’ at West Point, was never breached, and remained in place until the end of the American Revolution.

Thomas Machin had two important women in his life, Elizabeth Van Horne (Lisa,) and Caroline Filippante. It is through his relationships with these women that the readers discover more about the women of this era. Certainly these two add spice to the story, and definitely dissolve the image of demure young ladies. They were strong, scheming, fearless females, and their antics and those of their families provide interesting insights as to how the upper classes ‘survived’ the revolution.

‘Chains Across the River,’ is the exciting tale of how a British deserters engineering accomplishments were an important contribution towards the American War of Independence. It will appeal to lovers of historical fiction. Highly recommended.

About the Author:

BEVIS LONGSTRETH is the author of three historical novels: Spindle and Bow, Return of the Shade, and Boats Against the Current. He is a retired partner of the international law firm, Debevoise & Plimpton, where he practiced for his entire legal career, except for Government service in Washington as a Commissioner of the Securities and Exchange Commission from 1981-84. He authored Modern Portfolio Management and the Prudent Man Rule (Oxford University Press 1987), a book arguing for interpretative change in the legal standard of care exercisable by fiduciaries responsible for other people’s money to reflect current developments in finance economics. He lives in Manhattan, New York with his wife, Clara, and their dog, McKenzie. They have three children and nine grandchildren. See bevislongstreth.com for further information about the author and his writings.

About the Book:

In the Revolution, a British deserter could become a traitor to the Crown by joining the Continental Army and there become a hero. Chains Across the River tells the enthralling tale of one such soldier, Captain Thomas Machin, a brilliant engineer of flawed character born, educated and trained in England. He enlisted in the British Foot and was posted to Boston, where he saw action at Breed’s Hill before deserting to join the Continentals.

Observing Machin’s engineering skill and practical bent, Washington ordered Machin to the Hudson River, there to imagine, design and install obstructions to block the British Armada gathering in New York Harbor. Both sides believed control of the river a strategic necessity.

The immensity of Washington’s charge was matched by Machin’s audacity in imagining obstructions capable of stopping an 850-ton warship under full sail and following tide. He installed a chain at Fort Montgomery and, when the British overran that Fort and cut the chain, he installed another at West Point.

Filling out the story of Thomas Machin are the unforgettable women in his life, Elizabeth Van Horne and Caroline Filippante.

Why historians devote little attention to Machin is explained by what didn’t happen on the Hudson. The British cut the first chain without testing it and never sailed against the second. Washington and Machin understood the chain could deter without being tested. In these pages the known facts about Machin have been woven into an Homeric-like tale of daring, adventure, intrigue and triumph.

Available from Amazon: https://www.amazon.com/Chains-Across-River-American-Revolution-ebook/dp/B08PSMBNKB/ref=tmm_kin_swatch_0?_encoding=UTF8&qid=1617780662&sr=8-1

Mar 27 2021

DONK AND THE STUBBORN DONKEYS by K.A. Mulenga

Author: susan • Discussion: No Comments

An inspirational children’s book.

My two granddaughters just loved this bright and inspirational children’s book. It tells the story of Donk, a little donkey who’s a bit of a loner. He’s the youngest in the family, and nobody has time for him. All he hears the farmer saying is that donkeys are stubborn. Why does he say that? Are donkeys really stubborn? And, if they are, why?

Well Donk, like all young animals is curious, and tries to discover the answer. He asks everyone, his mother, his brothers and sisters, even the magical purple fairy donkey Jack. “Why are donkeys stubborn?” Everyone just says, “That’s just the way it is,” but that’s not good enough for Donk, he wants to know the reason why.

Children need to ask questions to grow as people, and develop their understanding of their world, and it’s the same for all creatures. In this bright, and beautifully illustrated children’s book, the author, using the cute and endearing character of Donk, has cleverly demonstrated to children that it is good to question things, and search for answers. Just because they are told “That’s just how it is,” that’s not a reason to accept it, or indeed believe it is true! This book empowers them to believe that they can stretch boundaries, and open new horizons, not only for themselves, but for others too.

Writing truly runs in the blood of Kalenga Augustine Mulenga, the author of this Amazon #1 Bestselling children’s book, and others. His father was the first black editor of the Zambia Daily Mail, and his brother was a poet. He started writing aged 10, but his passion has been reignited by his 11 year old son.

A wonderful inspirational children’s book which will be enjoyed by children either by it being read to them, or reading it themselves when they are able. Highly recommended!

About the Author:

Author’s Website: http://K.A. Mulenga.

Available from Amazon: https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B08N5CNPP8/ref=dbs_a_def_rwt_hsch_vapi_tkin_p1_i0

Mar 18 2021

Pathway to Prosperity: Your Guide to Money and Economics by Mark Lazar

Author: susan • Discussion: No Comments

A Clearly Written Comprehensive Guide to Understanding Finance.

This incredibly informative book really is the definitive guide to finance. Mark Lazar is a Certified Financial Planner, and senior vice president of investments for a national wealth management firm, who has not only worked in the industry for twenty-five years but has a Batchelor of Science in Finance, and a MBA. However, it is his personal experiences watching his parents struggle to make ends meet, and hard personal circumstances, which motivated him to do better. Working from the age of twelve, this self-made man “quickly learnt the correlation between effort and reward and became a millionaire by age forty.” What better recommendation could anyone ask for, when seeking financial advice?

Set out in five sections, beginning with the basics, the author covers important subjects such as balance sheets, cash flow, credit scores and taxes. Then in Section 2, he discusses ‘The Head Versus the Heart,’ getting down to the hard tacks of get rich schemes, education funding, and wants, versus needs. Or as he says “It’s important to understand the difference between essential and non-essential spending: wants versus needs.” These days, pressures such as these are very real and cause great financial hardship. I just loved this excellent quote he used, “Too many people spend money they earned, to buy things they don’t want, to impress people that they don’t like – Will Rogers.”

Then he tackles the ‘big’ financial decision we make during our lives, either alone or with a partner, our home. He advises the reader on how to decide which option would be better for them, to rent, or buy, and mortgage options. Then as life continues, how to plan for the future, investment properties, risk management and onward…

Until, the year’s roll quickly by and you find yourself considering retirement plans, assets, social security, income in retirement, and the many options available to you. Perhaps you would like to know how to work the Stock, or Bond Market. Well, this incredibly knowledgeable author demystifies these, and discusses other options which are available too.

Finally in Section 6: The Big Picture, he provides ‘Economics 101,’ and talks about inflation, deflation, Fiscal Policy and other important subjects.

I hope the author doesn’t mind me quoting this paragraph. “The bad news is there is no magic formula or get- rich-quick scheme. The good news, however, is that by building your wealth the right way—by understanding and incorporating sound financial principles into your everyday life and doing a handful of things a little better—over time you will become financially secure. Furthermore, the very same principles that enable you to achieve prosperity will also ensure you won’t lose it once you have it. For me, it explains perfectly why I believe this book should be on every high school reading list.

I have never read such a comprehensive guide written in such an easy to understand way. Highly recommended!

About the Author:

Born to a blue-collar family, Mark watched his parents’ ongoing struggle to make ends meet. After his parents divorced, Mark lived with his father in a run-down one-bedroom apartment for many years. Rather than discouraging him, these hardships provided motivation to never let the past define his future and to always strive to become better.

Today, Mark is a CERTIFIED FINANCIAL PLANNER™ and senior vice president for a national wealth management firm. He has worked in the investment industry for over twenty-five years, in addition to being an adjunct professor of finance at the University of Utah’s David Eccles School of Business for fifteen years. Mark earned his Bachelor of Science in finance at the University of Utah and his MBA at the University of Colorado, Colorado Springs.

Mark lives with his wife, Savina, their two dogs, Molly and Buster, and their cat, Gracie in Salt Lake City, but spend summers at their cabin in northern Idaho. They enjoy hiking, biking, waterskiing, and travel. Mark’s passion is helping others become financially independent.

Start your journey today at pathwaytoprosperity.com.

Author’s Website: https://pathwaytoprosperity.com/

About the Book:

Pathway to Prosperity is a comprehensive financial literacy program that takes the mystery out of money. Investing, credit, budgeting, risk management, taxes, and economics are explained in a practical, easy to understand manner. At the end of the journey, you will have a clear understanding of personal finance that will instill confidence and empower you to make better decisions in your day to day life. Knowledge is power. Take the first step down the path to a brighter tomorrow.

Available from Amazon: https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B08K2ZMF2Q/ref=dbs_a_def_rwt_bibl_vppi_i0

Mar 17 2021

Take Charge: The Skills That Drive Professional Success by Norman Bacal

Author: susan • Discussion: No Comments

An essential guide to a career in the law industry.

Nothing beats experience, and Norm Bacal, the author of this informative book certainly has plenty. During his career he was one of the leading entertainment lawyers in America. He is an entrepreneur, leader, and was the builder of a Canadian law firm success story, Heenan Blaikie, a firm which he led as managing partner for sixteen years.

Now retired, you, his readers can benefit from not only the wisdom he has gained through hundreds of legal and business transactions, but also the experience of over twenty other professionals who have contributed to the book, plus sample case studies, and links to podcasts.

From your application to a professional or business school, the myriad of choices available in size of business, and career paths, everything is covered. Questions like, should you work in-house for a corporation or business, or go into private practice? What are your long and short term goals? The author rises many questions, young and more mature lawyers may be, or should be asking themselves.

However, one thing is certain, whatever course you decide to take, there are two key elements which define the practice of law, and they are, service and sales. These are explained in detail, as are other important subjects, such as how to market yourself, make good impressions, learn writing and speaking skills, and master the four P’s, practice, process, patience, and perseverance.

“There’s no room for doubt if you need to succeed.” This quote says it all. The author, candidly gives insights into his own career, and in doing so explains that errors will happen, “The true test of a professional is not whether you never make a mistake—you most certainly will—but rather how you deal with the mistake once you discover it.” He emphasises the necessity to, and explains how you should provide the best service possible to your client, stressing the need to go that extra mile, and show you care about your client and their business.

In this insightful and thought-provoking book Norm Bacal empowers his readers. Although this is written from a law student and lawyer’s perspective, the wealth of information it contains is pertinent to anyone who really wants to succeed, and has the inner fire to achieve his, or her goals. Highly recommended!

About the Author:

Norman Bacal (1956-) has been one of Canada’s most prominent entertainment lawyers. He has concluded a successful career leading and building an international law firm and sat on the board of a Hollywood studio for almost ten years.

He knows lawyers, the inside of boardrooms, the tension, drama and machinations that drive big business and their leaders. That’s why he’s been writing about them since 2015. His first book Breakdown, was a Globe and Mail and Amazon bestseller, telling the story of the rise and fall of iconic Heenan Blaikie, home to two Canadian prime ministers, a firm he helped to build.

He will be following that up with Take Charge: The Skills That Build Professional Success, in February 2021: a primer on the soft skills that make all the difference to your career, that no one is teaching.

Odell’s Fall (October 2019) was his first fiction, a modern day Othello set in Manhattan and the first in a series of Shakespeare modernizations. Love, jealousy, and treachery, add up to only one thing: murder. In early 2021 he will be publishing Ophelia, the second novel in the series, a modern day Hamlet.

Author’s Website: https://normanbacal.com/

About the Book:

Do you want to become a successful lawyer, business manager or accountant?

What you’re learning in professional school isn’t enough. It’s just the basics.

If you want to move ahead, there are all kinds of skills you need to learn that no one is teaching in an organized way.

How to interview so you’ll get hired, choosing the workplace most suited to you, how to be effective in communicating with clients and superiors, the secrets of service you need to master, how to set up a career plan and so much more.

I’ve taken the secrets of my own success as a prominent entertainment attorney and law firm leader, and I’ve interviewed countless other professionals who’ve succeeded against all odds, to boil it down for you into an easy-to-read instructional book.

This isn’t another “how to” book written by a consultant who’s never done it. This is practical advice from someone who has sat on both sides of the interview table, hired thousands of professionals, just like you, and helped them flourish.

Available from Amazon: https://www.amazon.com/Take-Charge-Skills-Professional-Success-ebook/dp/B08T7QR47M/ref=sr_1_2?dchild=1&keywords=take+charge+by+norman+bacal&qid=1615993837&sr=8-2

Mar 08 2021

Deborah Striking (Book of Deborah 4) by Avraham Azrieli

Author: susan • Discussion: No Comments

Destiny Fulfilled

The ‘Deborah’ series tells the incredible story of a young girl in Old Testament times. A girl who, against all odds, grew with courage, and through her faith in Yahweh, to became the first female prophet, and a great military leader.

We have, through previous books in the series, seen the young girl flee her village in fear of her life. Watched her struggles, then borne witness to her strength, both physically and mentally, as she transforms herself into a boy called ‘Borah.’ Why? Simply because in those times the role of a female, was very different than it is today. A subservient obedient girl could never fulfil her father’s prediction that she would become a great prophet, and preach to her people from beneath the palm tree at the family home ‘Palm Homestead.’

Deborah/Borah had absolute faith that this was her destiny, she didn’t know how it would happen, but she ‘believed’ unswervingly that it would. All the decisions she made, and deeds she accomplished were carried out with that conviction, fortified with the wisdom and visions she received from Yahweh’s word, as he came to her in the guise of an eagle.

Now, in ‘Deborah Striking,’ Deborah can no longer masquerade. The mantle of Borah is discarded. Here we see the warrior, intent on claiming her birth right in the name of Yahweh. Her lifetime of good deeds and sound judgements are repaid many fold. Her reputation has spread widely. Now, comes the climax of the story, and readers are in for a real treat as, with her supporters around her, she fulfils her destiny, truly becoming the incredible prophet we read of in the scriptures.

Avraham Azrieli, has, through this absorbing series brought alive for modern readers the life of this amazing prophet, and in doing so, he also gives us glimpses into what life was really like in Old Testament times. I highly recommend this book to lovers of biblical stories and historical fiction.

About the Author:

Avraham Azrieli is the author of books and screenplays. His first novel was The Masada Complex (a political thriller), followed by Israeli spy novels The Jerusalem Inception and The Jerusalem Assassin, as well as Christmas for Joshua (an interfaith family drama), The Mormon Candidate (a political thriller), Thump (a courtroom drama featuring sexual harassment and racism), and The Bootstrap Ultimatum (a mystery involving the commercialization of Memorial Day). Most recently, he has written a series of novels inspired by the true story of the first woman to lead a nation in human history, starting with Deborah Rising (HarperCollins 2016), and continuing with Deborah Calling, Deborah Slaying and Deborah Striking. Beside fiction, he has also authored Your Lawyer on a Short Leash – a guide to dealing with lawyers and One Step Ahead – A Mother of Seven Escaping Hitler’s Claws (an acclaimed WWII true story, which inspired the musical By Wheel and by Wing). To learn more, visit www.AzrieliBooks.com

About the Book:

This 4th novel in the Book of Deborah Series follows the best selling Deborah Rising (HarperCollins, 2016) in a tale of danger, myth, intrigue, and daring – the dramatic rise of the first woman to lead a nation in recorded human history. “A captivating read from the opening shock of a stoning to the cliffhanger conclusion, Deborah Rising provides action-packed adventure!” Historical Novels Review. “Stunning … an epic journey that no reader could guess. It’s unlike anything I have read.” Urban Lit Magazine. “The story of this young woman has moved me emotionally, spiritually, and has inspired me.” Hollywood Book Reviews. “Deborah Rising is a perfect read for history enthusiasts. Riveting!” The US Review of Books. “Deborah, for all the tragedies she has endured, continues, never losing faith. A seductive saga, peopled with a fascinating array of characters.” Bookpleasures. “This enthralling story gives the reader an amazing insight into what life was really like for women at a fascinating time in history. Absolutely absorbing!” The English Informer. ” Believable and engrossing.” Pacific Book Review. “Rich descriptions and engaging dialogue bring the story of Deborah to life … her struggles will no doubt resonate with today’s readers.” Oak Tree Reviews. “A strong female protagonist that is hard to come by.” Seattle Book Review. “No story has ever hooked me right at the beginning quite like this one … entertaining, suspenseful, and heart wrenching – definitely a five-star page-turner!” The Reader Views. “A superior, heart-pounding and inspirational read … vivid descriptions, intriguing twists. Readers are in for a real treat!” Midwest Book Review. “Deborah is strong, and her story is a compelling one. Azrieli does a masterful job.” San Francisco Book Review. “Deborah Rising powerfully depicts the political, religious, and cultural landscapes – Azrieli has a powerful gift for plot and character and for making history come alive. A masterpiece!” Manhattan Book Review.

Available from Amazon: https://www.amazon.com/Deborah-Striking-Avraham-Azrieli/dp/1953648096/ref=tmm_pap_swatch_0?_encoding=UTF8&qid=1615202416&sr=8-1

Mar 08 2021

Love: What It Is, What It Is Not by Michael Soward

Author: susan • Discussion: No Comments

How to embrace, give, and receive love.

It has been a few years since I reviewed Michael Soward’s autobiography ‘Life-ology 101: If All Else Fails Smile.’ However, I can clearly remember reading it. Why? Because this author’s words really touched my heart as he told his story. It began in Arkansas, where Michael and his brother, after being abandoned by their father, were living with their strict grandmother. However, weekly church visits awakened a love of music in the young Michael, who was gifted at playing the organ. When he was old enough he fled to Kansas City. Following the traditional paths of marriage, and children. His story was hard, brutal at times, yet through it all, his strong belief in God shone through.

Now in this new book ‘Love: What It Is, What It Is Not,’ the author’s prayer is that his words will offer guidance, so that you, his readers can embrace the True God Given love which is offered, freely and openly. He encourages you to take it into your heart, and be empowered by it.

He asks you to reflect on your life and the people you share it with. Are you truly living, or just existing? Can you honestly say that you are giving your whole self to the relationship you are in, are you listening to the other person, being mindful? In this modern world where everything is available 24/7, and at the push of a button, are you living in the now, or has technology overtaken your time. Relationships can’t work from only one side, they take two, they take time, and they take commitment. How easy is it to bury yourself in the mobile phone when the going gets tough? Michael Soward encourages you to put the phone down, talk, and really listen.

I love what this book does, because it is simple, it’s direct, and it doesn’t need to be a weighty epic. In these 21 pages, if you are receptive, you have everything you need to open yourselves up to the love you have, or be receptive to new opportunities. God loves his people and will always be there for you, if you let him in. One of my favourite pieces in this book is this ‘People and connections are all we have in the world; money, material things come and go.’ We know it is true, what a pity that so many of us only awaken to the truth when it is too late.

I highly recommend this book to those who really want to find themselves, open their lives to love and embrace the True God Given love which is waiting for them.

About the Author:

New York, NY — (SBWIRE) — 10/10/2013 — Life is what it is, and sometimes the pain, the unusual twists and turns of it are unavoidable, though through its entirety one must always smile, for this is a great start of the healing process. Author Michael Soward has lived by these words, and in his new book, “Life-ology 101,” he shares his life journey with readers everywhere, giving them a brief written snapshot of his life from childhood to his arrival in New York City, and all the adversities he met and overcame along the way.

“Life-ology101: If All Else Fails, Smile” is an autobiographical chronicle of the life and times of Michael Soward, following his journey from his days as a teenager who came from a strict African-American household to a liberated young adult exploring a nation that was also experiencing sweeping changes. Readers will witness the metamorphosis of a man coinciding with the transformation of an entire society, a domino effect wherein both will never be the same again. Soward’s compelling narrative contains invaluable life lessons on freedom, on a personal and societal level, and on the great responsibilities that come with it.

Through his life story, Soward hopes to show readers that regardless of their life challenges, they must never, ever give up. That is the fundamental lesson of “Life-ology 101.”

Check out Michael’s additional releases at Amazon as well as visit his personal Blog at http://www.sowardsharpe.com-
email:mdsoward@gmail.com

About the Book:

There’s so much weird information out there about love. The bulk of it is mostly false. This e-book begins a brand new road on the life long struggle to find and yes even keep Real True Love! My personal experiences have taught me that Love in it’s purest,
Raw form is a God created, God Given Force. It has absolutely nothing to do with Sex, Expensive Gifts, Beautiful Houses, Clothes, Great Shoes and Awesome Family gatherings although these are indeed all small parts of an extremely gigantic puzzle so it seems! Check out this unique e-book and see how much you’re Enlighted moving forward!

Available from Amazon: https://www.amazon.com/Love-What-Not/dp/B08XWMVFRN/ref=tmm_aud_swatch_0?_encoding=UTF8&qid=1615192922&sr=8-4