May 11 2021

Chuck the Cheetah by K. A. Mulenga

Author: susan • Discussion: No Comments

How Chuck the Cheetah learned a very important lesson.

Everyone knows that cheetahs are the fastest animals on earth, and Chuck is the fastest of them all. He knows that whether he is competing in the Daily Friendly Races, Weekly Fun Races, or the Monthly Championship Races, he will always win.

This knowledge has made Chuck into a very arrogant cheetah, failure is something he just doesn’t consider, it’s not an option, and he is always boasting that he win, win, wins. This attitude means that he is becoming more and more unpopular with his friends, Chip, Chum and Chester. They even go as far as to ask him what he would do if he didn’t win, he just laughs them off, until… during a race he stands on a thorn, this slows him down, and the race is won by Chip.

Humiliated, Chuck slinks away, unwilling and unable to be pleased for Chip. This is a very sad way to be, he is a very bad loser, which is not nice.

Then one night he is visited by a wise old cheetah who tells him that his attitude is not good. He shouldn’t be such a bad loser, and for his own good he should learn to accept defeat gracefully. Chuck decides to follow the wise cheetah’s advice and in this heart-warming story young readers will discover the advantages of being nice, and happy for others.

Not everyone can be a winner, or a leader, but everyone deserves to be loved and respected. Life isn’t about being the best at everything, not everyone can do this, but everyone deserves to be loved for themselves and who they are.

The message of kindness and love towards your friends, neighbours, and people you meet, is clearly explained in an easy to understand way. My granddaughters understood well that Chuck, his attitude, and what he learned from the wise old cheetah are lessons for us all.

I highly recommend this nicely written and beautifully illustrated little children’s book.

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 10 children’s books . They are available on Amazon and also from my website. 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 9 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

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

About the Book:

Chuck the cheetah is the fastest runner in the land and loves to race his cheetah friends, Chip, Chum and Chester. Chuck especially loves racing because, whether he is competing at the Daily Friendly Races, the Weekly Fun Races or the Monthly Championship Races, he is always the first one over the finish line.
Because he is always the winner and has never experienced failure, Chuck starts thinking he is better than everyone else. He cannot imagine ever losing a race and ever being anything less than number one. But Chuck’s cheetah friends also want a chance to be the ones to run through the ribbon. They gather together and try and come up with ways to beat Chuck in the races. They decide to approach Chuck and ask him how he would feel if, for once in his life, he wasn’t the winner. Chuck haughtily dismisses their suggestion as ridiculous and says it would never happen.
At the next daily race, something out of the ordinary happens. Chuck experiences a setback while he is racing. Before he knows it, Chuck has lost his first ever race in the whole history of cheetah races. Well, he certainly didn’t see that coming! Feeling devastated and highly embarrassed, Chuck worries that his cheetah friends won’t like him anymore. He behaves like a sore loser and finds himself unable to be happy for the friend who beat him. While all the other cheetah friends are congratulating the new winner on his achievement, Chuck sulks and can’t even bring himself to say, “Well done!” to his speedy friend. Chuck has never felt worse in his life and everything seems to have gone wrong for him.
That night, Chuck is visited in a dream by a wise old cheetah. The sage cat gently explains the true meaning of winning to Chuck and offers him some valuable advice about how to deal with failure.
Will Chuck take heed of the cheetah’s wise words? Is it too late to save his friendship with Chip, Chum and Chester? Will they forgive him for his big-headedness and will they still like him, even though he is no longer the undefeated champion of the cheetah races? Read on to find out…
Chuck the Cheetah is a delightful story which explains the well-known adage, “Pride comes before a fall” in a refreshing way that is relatable and enjoyable for young readers. Chuck’s experience warns children of the danger of smugness and arrogance, teaches them about the nature of true friendship, and offers valuable lessons about the art of winning and losing graciously. Children will recognise the sense of competition amongst the cheetah friends and will be able to identify with the characters – whether they see themselves as Chuck, or as any of his cheetah friends.
The story contains many important messages for children. It teaches them that just because you are not the best, you are not any less lovable; it teaches them that life is not always about coming first; and it teaches them about true friendship – where we celebrate each other’s successes, stay humble and always congratulate each other for trying our best.

Available from Amazon: https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B08P46JY3Q/ref=dbs_a_def_rwt_hsch_vapi_tkin_p1_i0

Apr 27 2021

September to Remember: Searching for Culinary Pleasures at the Italian Table (Book Three) – Lombardy, Tuscany, Compania, Apulia, and Lazio (Roma) (Savoring the Olde Ways Series 3)

Author: susan • Discussion: No Comments

For me, there can be no better book to read than a gourmet travelogue. As a great fan of Carole Bumpus’ “Savoring the Olde Ways series” which have, until this book, been based in France, I was very happy to join Carole and her husband Win (Winston) as they, at his suggestion, started their new culinary tour of Italy in September 1998.

The intrepid American pair had not prepared themselves with Italian lessons, but with guidebooks in hand, had thrown off the shackles of work, and arrived at the Milano Malpensa Terminal full of excitement.

Undaunted by Carole’s lost luggage they carried on to their hotel, and after an ‘interesting’ clothes shopping trip which will make us ladies of, should I say ‘non-model size’ simultaneously giggle and cringe in sympathy with the author, they started their adventure by visiting the Duomo. This incredible building was “Like a giant birthday cake with delicate filigreed spires reaching up toward the heavens and dancing along the flying buttresses, it was a sight to behold.” I was hooked!

From there they headed to Tuscany and stayed in the hillside village of Poderi di Montemerano with their new friend Lisa, who they had met in San Francisco. “After all, who can resist the chance not just to visit Tuscany, but to ‘experience her?’” she had told them.

Arriving on a fiesta (or festival) day, they were treated as part of the family and experience real life in southern Tuscany, where in villages and towns the local produce of the area is celebrated every year, on the same day. They found themselves eating the day and night away, sampling traditional delicacies made, that very day by the villagers. Carole soon discovered that here the world seems to spin at a different speed, the people live in a world connected to nature and the seasons, the gods are everywhere, and your very life depends on these forces working in harmony. This ethos has worked for generations, and will do so for generations to come. They explored this beautiful region, including the Etruscan Tombs of Sovana, which have a beautifully carved temple, and burial chambers in the necropolis or “city of the dead.” Then enjoyed wonderful meals, including Aquacotta, a simple peasant dish the author enjoys cooking today, the name literally means “boiled water” and it is a thick vegetable stew with a lovely poached egg placed on top. The recipe, like many others, can be found at the back of this wonderful book, so you can try them too.

Carole and Win’s adventure continued, with them catching the train to Pisa, then on to Florence, marvelling at the beautiful scenery, with the crystalline Tyrrhenian Sea on one side and the incredible medieval castles, quaint hillside villages. Vineyards and sunflower fields on the other.

Florence was a busy city with amazing shops, and architecture. On their return to Poderi their time included visiting the thermal baths (terme) in Saturnia with its greenish-black moss, now there’s a place with a tale to tell…

Then it was time to visit the Amalfi Coast, staying in Amalfi where they visited the spectacular Piazza Duomo. The author’s description of this place, Pompeii and the Isle of Love, Capri, had me looking it up as a holiday destination. All I can say is WOW I want to go!

However all vacations must come to an end and after a jaunt across country to Apulia, they were off to their final destination, Rome. The Colosseum, Arch of Constantine, the Forum, the Vatican and Sistine Chapel, the author vividly describes them all. Through her penmanship you can almost see the gold radiating from the Basilica, from both Renaissance and Baroque art. And here, as in other places, she also sends us on a sensory tour with her descriptions of the marvellous meals they enjoyed, of course all handmade, regional, and accompanied by superb wine. A true celebration of Italy.

I believe that Carole Bumpus is such a successful author because of the love and passion she puts into her books, through her writing the landscapes, architecture, and gastronomy of Italy are brought wonderfully to life. Highly recommended!

About the Author:

A retired family therapist, Carole Bumpus began writing a culinary travel series when she stumbled upon the amazing stories of women, recipes and war in France. Her historical novel, A Cup of Redemption, was based on the poignant story of a French woman she had met and interviewed. It was published October 2014. Her unique companion cookbook, Recipes for Redemption: A Companion Cookbook to A Cup of Redemption was released August 2015 with the recipes from all the foods savored in the novel.

In addition to the cookbook, she is completing her original series of culinary travel books, Savoring the Olde Ways. The first of this series, Searching for Family and Traditions at the French Table, Book One, is to be published August 27, 2019. The second of the series will follow in one year completing the original French tour. The third book, Searching for Family and Traditions at the Italian Table is scheduled for April 2021.

She has also had three short stories published in the California Writers Club – Fault Zone anthologies: Words from the Edge; Stepping up to the Edge and Over the Edge. She has received numerous writing awards including: Honorable Mention in fiction and also Runner-Up in cookbooks in the London Book Festival – 2015; Honorable Mention in fiction for A Cup of Redemption – Paris Book Festival – 2016; Bronze Medal – IPPY Award – Cover Design of A Cup of Redemption – 2016; Finalist – International Book Awards – A Cup of Redemption – Historical Fiction – 2016; Finalist – International Cookbook Awards – Recipe for Redemption – 2016 – www.carolebumpus.com

About the Book:

Join Carole Bumpus and her husband in Book Three of the Savoring the Olde Ways series as they take you on their first culinary trek through Italy, including regions of Lombardy, Tuscany, Compania, Apulia, and Lazio. Embrace unforgettable characters such as lovely guides Lisa and Margarita, who introduce you to the “true Italian experience.” Sup on traditional foods (cucina povera) including local tortelli, pappardelle al cinghiale (wild boar), bistecca all Fiorentina, pasta alla vongole (clams), or saltimbocca alla Romana. Sip regional wines, along with memorable digestivos like limoncello and grappa. Find yourself dancing at harvest festivals, climbing through Etruscan tombs, traipsing among Roman ruins, or bathing in ancient Roman termés (hot springs). Climb to the heights in elegant Capri on the gorgeous Amalfi Coast, or to the top of the “holiest of holies” at St. Peter’s Basilica. Soak up ancient and cultural history in Milan, Firenze (Florence), Amalfi, Pompeii, Lecce, and Rome. Bask in the sun and opalescent waters along the rugged coasts of the Tyrrhenian and Adriatic Seas. And, best of all, capture a rare glimpse into the secrets of the Mediterranean psyche while sharing a good meal with new friends. It is truly the trip of a lifetime.

Available from Amazon: https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B08DXM6RKF/ref=dbs_a_def_rwt_hsch_vapi_tkin_p1_i1

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:

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.

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:

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

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