Just in time for the Winter Olympic Games, the incomparable broadcaster, gold medalist, and world champion figure skater Dick Button demystifies the sport in a book that is among the titles booksellers, publishers, and agents are encouraged to take a look at the following listings of self-published books from authors either waiting to be discovered or with a track record and a following who are doing it on their own.
Art
Skeleton in the Closet: Eating Disordered Lives
Fritz Liedtke. CreateSpace. $25 paper (102p), ISBN 9781491020784
Amazon; bn.com; Powell’s Books; bookstores
Combining intimate photographs by artist Liedtke with personal narratives of women and men struggling with the secrets of anorexia and bulimia, this book challenges stereotypes about eating disorders, mental health, and addiction.
Biography & Autobiography
Boy @ the Window: A Memoir
Donald Earl Collins. Donald Earl Collins. $13.99 paper (384p), ISBN 9780989256131; $4.49 e-book ISBN 9780989256117
Amazon; bn.com
A coming-of-age story about the author’s search for redemption, trust, love, success—for a life worth living. It’s about one of the most important lessons of all: what it takes to overcome inhumanity to become whole and human again.
99 Jobs: Blood, Sweat, and Houses
Joe Cottonwood. Clear Heart Books. $17.99 paper (302p), ISBN 9780615909448; $4.99 e-book ISBN 9781310510007
Amazon; bn.com; Smashwords
Life, love, construction. A memoir by a writer and contractor told in 99 stories that are gritty, funny, and humane.
The View from Casa Chepitos: A Journey Beyond the Border
Judith Gille. Davis Bay Press. $14.99 paper (310p), ISBN 9780578124698; $3.99 e-book ISBN 9780615888538
Amazon; bn.com
Set in San Miguel de Allende, Mexico, this story of two women’s cross-border journeys puts a human face to the current immigration debate and explores the deeper issues women of all ages and cultures face.
Three for Ship: A Swan Song to Dartmouth Beer Pong
Crispus Knight. Fuzzy Plum Press. $4.99 e-book ISBN 9780615848884
Amazon; bn.com
At Dartmouth College, beer pong is more than a game, it’s a way of life. These are the brutally honest drunken recollections of a misanthropic fraternity brother at Dartmouth in the early 2000s.
Seventeen Guardian Angels
Cynthia Papierniak. Create-Space. $17 paper (154p), ISBN 9781482338140; $2.99 e-book ASIN B00GM9FSF0
Amazon; bn.com
A memoir about surviving maternal child abuse and the 17 people who offered kindness, friendship, treatment, compassion, and guidance.
Two Years at Occidental College in the Late Sixties
Charles E. Rouse. CreateSpace. $14 paper (282p), ISBN 9781453771365; $6 e-book ASIN B004H4XEOO
Amazon; bn.com
Rouse spent two years at Occidental College in Los Angeles from the autumn of 1966 to graduation in 1968. They were very turbulent years for the United States and turbulent times for him.
I Remember: A Boy’s Years in Nazi Germany
Ottomar Rudolf. Inkwater Press. $13.95 paper (170p), ISBN 9781592997350; $2.99 e-book
Amazon; bn.com
Forced to serve in the Panzer Corps during WWII, Ottomar Rudolf eventually moved to New York in 1948, attended college, and was drafted into the American army during the Korean War. He later became a distinguished American professor.
Rabbi Kameleon: The Hidden Son of Chabad Rebbe Schneerson
Issachar Levi Schneerson. I. Tal van Kekem. $10.47 e-book ISBN 9789079656080
Kobo
The hidden extramarital son of the late Rabbi Menachem Schneerson of Chabad publishes the ugly truth about his father, himself, and their top-secret relationship.
Showdown at Shinagawa: Tales of Filming from Bombay to Brazil
Bill Zarchy. Roving Camera Press. $14.95 paper (216p), ISBN 9780984919109; $4.95 e-book ISBN 9780984919116
Amazon
An inside look at the international adventures of film crews making a living in the fascinating, unpredictable, sometimes dark, often comical world of the film and video business.
Body, Mind & Spirit
Bird from Rajasthan
Harvey Rosenberg. Go Jolly Books. $9.13 paper (32p), ISBN 9780982282403; $4.85 e-book ASIN B00HEVKPSK
Amazon; bn.com
Full-color illustrations and inspirational words seek out the secret corners of the heart as the reader accompanies Starlight the songbird on a courageous journey to find her beloved.
Business & Economics
The Relevance of Reason: The Hard Facts and Real Data About the State of Current America—Business and Politics
Mack W. Borgen. Brody & Schmitt Publishers. $24.95 hardcover (408p), ISBN 9780989399609
(805) 450-2602; Summerland Publishing; Amazon; bn.com; Ingram; Follett; Quality; Baker & Taylor
Using humor but without bias, agenda, or exaggeration, Borgen presents hard facts and real data about business and politics in Current America.
Driving to Perfection: Achieving Business Excellence by Creating a Vibrant Culture
Brian L. Fielkow. Two Harbors Press. $26.95 hardcover (252p), ISBN 9781626525078; $9.99 e-book ISBN 9781626525085
Amazon; drivingtoperfection.com; bn.com
Fielkow says a business’s most important strategic and competitive advantage is its culture. If you grow your culture, you’ll grow your company.
Education
Dyslexia: Time for Talent: The Ultimate Guide for Parents and Children
Carolina Fröhlich. Frohlich Publishing. $23.99 paper (438p), ISBN 9780956643520
Amazon
An inspirational book that empowers parents and children to tackle dyslexia and achieve success and happiness in their lives. It addresses dyslexia from a holistic perspective.
Family & Relationships
Anelisse: A True Story of Child Abuse
Adriana Bellini. Monarch Publishing House. $9.99 paper (180p), ISBN 9780615885063; $2.99 e-book ASIN B00ENJPV2G
Amazon; bn.com
The true story of a young New Jersey girl who struggles to survive emotional, physical, and verbal abuse at the hands of her alcoholic stepfather. The book offers a look inside the dysfunctional world many abused children come from.
Parents in Highschooland: Helping Students Succeed in the Critical Years
Karyn Rashoff. BarkingDogBooks. $12.95 paper (162p), ISBN 9780989760614; $4.95 e-book ISBN 9780989760607
Amazon; Smashwords
Using interviews with students, parents, and teachers, Rashoff identifies, analyzes, and resolves the complex interactions among students, teachers, and parents. Nearly 20,000 counseling interactions point to behaviors at home for school success.
Fiction
Spellbound
Jennifer Adele. Synthesis 365. $15.99 paper (262p), ISBN 9780615876221; $2.99 e-book ASIN B00ET3B9BI
jenniferadele.com
A macabre tale of curses and spells, love and dangerous obsession, magic and mystery.
The Holy Mark: The Tragedy of a Fallen Priest
Gregory Alexander. Mill City Press. $14.99 paper (283p), ISBN 9781626524996; $4.99 e-book ISBN 9781626525016
theholymark.com; Amazon; bn.com
A disgraced and exiled Catholic priest from a powerful New Orleans family ponders his future and reflects on his 25 years in the priesthood.
The Coin
Maria Elena Alonso-Sierra. CreateSpace. $12.25 paper (335p), ISBN 9781483912479;$2.99 e-book ASIN B00CBW94P2
Amazon; bn.com
Romantic suspense on the French Riviera. When artist Gabriela Martinez finds an old French coin, she unwittingly places herself in terrible danger. Her marriage is shaky, a madman is trying to terrorize her, and the U.S. intelligence officer protecting her is falling in love with her.
Chiral Mad 2
Edited by Michael Bailey. Written Backwards. $20 paper (424p), ISBN 9781494239978
nettirw.com; Amazon; bn.com
An anthology of psychological horror containing 28 short stories by established authors and newcomers from around the world. All profits from sales go directly to Down syndrome charities.
Fathers House
C. Edward Baldwin. Smashwords. $3.99 e-book ISBN 9781311398581
Amazon; bn.com; Smashwords
Assistant district attorney Ben Lovison, while investigating the death of a young teenager, uncovers citywide corruption and its link to his childhood home, Fathers House.
The Only Witness
Pamela Beason. WildWing Press. $13.95 (312p), ISBN 9780979876868; $3.99 e-book ISBN 9780979876851
Amazon; bn.com; Smashwords
A baby has vanished, and the only witness is a gorilla that communicates in sign language.
Of Lake, Land and Liberty: The Battle of Plattsburgh in the War of 1812
Joseph W.M. Bebo. Joseph W.M. Bebo. $3.99 e-book ISBN 9780981972428
Amazon
Historical fiction about two boys from upstate New York. Their desire to defend their country and their thirst for adventure leads them to become heroes in the Battle of Plattsburgh.
Her Bodyguard
E.E. Burke. E.E. Burke. $12.99 paper (342p), ISBN 9780989819213; $2.99 e-book ISBN 9780989819220
Kobo; Amazon; bn.com
Passion and ambition collide when a woman embroiled in a bitter war between a powerful railroad and rioting settlers hires a bodyguard to protect her from a killer. Part of the Steam! Romance and Rails series.
Undeliverable
Rebecca A. Demarest. Writerly Bliss. $14.99 paper (288p), ISBN 9781492999911; $6.99 e-book ISBN 9781483515014
(412) 999-6665; bn.com
A suspense novel about a father using his job at the Lost Letters Office to find his missing son.
Orange Peels and Cobblestones
Rose Marie Dunphy. Rose Marie Dunphy. $14.95 paper (260p), ISBN 9780615696713; $9.99 e-book ASIN B00BGJ9UVE
Baker & Taylor; Amazon; bn.com; bookstores; (631) 256-6346
A love story and coming-of-age novel set in Italy, New York, and California, based on a true story. How does a mother give away her own child? Dunphy explores themes of adoption, abandonment, rejection, the immigrant experience, love and forgiveness, and includes discussion questions.
An Involuntary Spy: A GMO Political Thriller
Kenneth Eade. Times Square Publishing. $12 paper (322p), ISBN 9781492909774; $3.99 e-book ASIN B00GQPBLZ6
Amazon
Seth Rogan was a biologist for the largest biotech company in the world. When asked to do tests on the company’s GMO foods, he uncovered a government conspiracy to cover up their known dangers. After blowing the whistle, he is forced to flee the country.
Tales from Little Lump: Alien Season
Jeff Folschinsky. CreateSpace. $5.99 paper (103p), ISBN 9781492962557; 99¢ e-book ASIN B00FJIEID8; BN ID: 2940148956006
Amazon; bn.com
A hilarious tale about the small town of Little Lump, Texas, and what happens when aliens show up without warning. Is this the end of the world? Not if Gertie and the customers of Aunt Gertie’s Gas ’n Sip have anything to say about it.
Loco
Jeff Ford. Fordified Productions. $15.95 paper (324p), ISBN 9780989859103
locoford.com
Ford takes the reader from Wall Street to Honduras in his nautical thriller of love, loss, and moral decay on the high seas.
Pen Pal
Francesca Forrest. CreateSpace. $15 paper (352p), ISBN 9781494264635; $3.99 e-book ASIN B00H1UIIM4; BN ID 2940148826934
Amazon; bn.com
Em is a 12-year-old girl in a floating community off the Gulf Coast. Kaya is an activist in a terrifying prison. They are pen pals across age, distance, and culture, and at the intersection of the natural and supernatural world.
The Nation by the River
Gabe Galambos. Garnet Star Publishing. $14.95 paper (330p), ISBN 9780988257917; $2.99 e-book ISBN 9780988257924
Amazon; bn.com
When teenager Michael Costa discovers clashing factions violating his well-dug holes, he learns of his heritage—the shadow world of a secret society.
The Woods
Ronald Lee Geigle. Polidais. $14.99 paper (428p), ISBN 9780991271313; $3.99 e-book ISBN 9780991271306
Amazon; bn.com
A saga of love, grand dreams, and transformation set in the Pacific Northwest during the waning years of the Great Depression.
Luz
Luis Gonzalez. CreateSpace. $19.98 paper (554p), ISBN 9781477492017; $9.99 e-book ASIN B00H9FUEVY
Amazon; bn.com
God has decided to have another child, a daughter, who will be born of a Cuban woman and come into the world during a tumultuous time in Cuba’s history, the mid-1990s.
The Root of Heaven and Earth
E.A. Grace. Ethosphere Press. $19.99 paper (888p), ISBN 9781938960680; $4.99 e-book ISBN 9781938960703
therootofheavenandearth.com
In this story of broad scope and probing ideas, a scientist seeking a way to heal his world finds answers that may help heal ours.
Will Shakespeare and the Ships of Solomon
Christopher Grey. Pacific Coast Creative Publishing. $26.95 hardcover (280p), ISBN 9780983964193
pcoastcreative.com
In 1947, the last remaining member of a secret order of Knights Templar must outrun militant enemies to find and save the Holy Grail before it is destroyed by the worst hurricane in a century.
Night Chill
Jeff Gunhus. Seven Guns Press. $14.95 paper (438p), ISBN 9780615828381; 99¢ e-book ASIN B00CRKPTL6
JeffGunhus.com
When a cult targets Jack Tremont’s five-year-old daughter, he finds himself up against dark, supernatural forces. Suddenly, he’s fighting not only for his family but to stop a devastating evil from escaping into the world.
The Equation
Judith I. Hill. CreateSpace. $16.95 paper (457p), ISBN 9781490313252; $9.99 e-book ASIN B00FY4G2AY
Amazon; bn.com
A compelling tale of unrequited love between algebra teacher Travis Hall and his student, Sarah Thompson.
Neo-History
August Hock. MountainLion Press. $20 paper (246p), ISBN 9780989048828
Amazon
A newly minted detective takes his first case in Georgetown, searching for the missing last manuscript of renowned scholar of history Al Finkel.
A Cheap Shofar: Un-Orthodox Short Fictions
Paul Ilie. . $ paper (215p), ISBN 10:0615858503; $ e-book ISBN
pilie@usc.edu
Short fictions with religious themes portraying Orthodox and secular Jewish characters. Written in varying styles, from realistic and symbolic to whimsical and psychological.
India Was One
An Indian. Season Ball. $14.95 paper (368p), ISBN 9780615916194; $3.79 e-book ASIN B004S3OWO0
indiawasone.com
What if India was divided into two countries? Everything was going smoothly for Kaahi and Jai until they were trapped —he was in South India, and she was in North India.
Paper Soldiers
Joe Joffe. Penn Media. $8.99 paper (207p), ISBN 9780615798363; $3.99 e-book
Amazon
When law firm associate Jake Green is called in to assist with the investigation of a major American oil company and star client, he finds himself embroiled in a global power struggle.
The Rummy Club
Anoop Ahuja Judge. Daggerhorn Publishing. $16.95 paper (316p), ISBN 9780991081011
(925) 577-6500
Four high school girlfriends from India reunite in California after decades and resume their weekly rummy night; a snapshot of the Indian diaspora in the 21st century.
Conspiracy of Silence
Gledé Browne Kabongo. iUniverse. $16.95 paper (306p), ISBN 9781475945676; $2.99 e-book ISBN 9781475945683
Amazon; bn.com
Boston executive Nina Kasai has been living a lie since her college days, but some secrets are too big to stay buried. Will Nina find the courage to confront her past—and make a life-altering decision leaving multiple casualties in its wake?
Freeze Kill
David Kreinberg. David Kreinberg. $2.99 e-book ISBN 9780991378401
Amazon; bn.com; Smashwords
A child discovers the ability to stop time and then uses it to murder people, becoming a serial killer with a horrifying gift.
The Donation of Constantine: A Novel
Simon LeVay. CreateSpace. $16.95 paper (425p), ISBN 9781470132156; $7.99 e-book ASIN B00FQ70MAU
Amazon
Set in eighth-century Italy, this is a story of intrigue, illicit passion, and the struggle for control of medieval Europe.
Community Service
Dakota Madison. Short on Time Books. $9.99 paper (230p), ISBN 9781493735099; $2.99 e-book ASIN B00GOKZBJK
Amazon; bn.com
As Maggie Mitchell enters her final semester of college, the last thing she wants is a guy in her life, let alone two of them: Sawyer, an overconfident jock who uses a wheelchair, and Jude, a hot actor whom all the girls want. But who will Maggie choose?
In the Presence of My Enemies
Renée Allen McCoy. FaytheWorks Publishing. $14.99 paper (334p), ISBN 9780983604648; $4.99 e-book ASIN B00GY8IR0M; BN ID 2940148871156
Amazon
Kara Bentley must overcome unrelenting trials that threaten any hope she has of leaving the projects, while winning the love of the man of her dreams and, most importantly, holding on to her faith in God.
Dating a Cougar: Book 1 of the Never Too Late Series
Donna McDonald. CreateSpace. $12.99 paper (282p), ISBN 9781461119845; $0 e-book ISBN 9781939988034
Kobo; Amazon; bn.com
Former model Alexa Ranger falls for retired Marine Casey Carter and proves that it really is never too late for love and romance.
Illuminating Crystal: Book One in the White Bird Series
P.B. Morlen. BookLocker. $18.95 paper (350p), ISBN 9781614342885; $3.99 e-book ASIN B0068R63KU
Amazon; bn.com
When Crystal Blue finds an ancient manuscript in a bookstore’s basement, she is forever changed for the mission she was born to fulfill. She is an Avatar, gifted with the ability to walk between worlds but vulnerable to dark forces that seek to destroy her.
Crimson Liberty
George W. Morrison. Georjes Press/CreateSpace. $15.95 paper (304p), ISBN 9781479153800; $2.99 e-book
Auntiesbooks.com; Bookpassage.com; Smashwords
Dewy Spearman directs Macbeth in a theater controlled by a corrupt family and soon is fighting for his reputation, his career, his lady, and even his life.
Rev
Conner Moysei. Conner Moysei. $4.99 e-book ASIN B00HBU5PAW; BN ID 2940149079018
Amazon; bn.com
After a chemical world war, some humans—the gifted—possess enhanced abilities. The government attempts to isolate them to protect them, but a terrorist group interferes.
Greek Bonds and French Ladies
Paul A. Myers. Paul A. Myers Books. $9.99 paper (242p), ISBN 9781494325985; $2.99 e-book ASIN B00H0OSM40; BN ID 2940045477239
Amazon; bn.com
In 2012, hedge fund investor Jim Schiller bets billions on a bailout of Greek bonds now threatened by scandal. Can Jim and Sophie d’Auverne, a former French finance official, save the bailout?
Hot Minnesota Sex Death
M.R. Nesheim. M.R. Nesheim. $14 paper (357p), ISBN 9781619273108; $3.99 e-book ISBN 9781620952511
mrnesheim.com; Amazon; iBooks; bn.com
An irreverent, playful mix of allegory and parable that tells the tale of the U.S. economy during the subprime crisis.
The Fallen Body: Taylour Dixxon Series
Stone Patrick. CreateSpace. $12.99 paper (246p), ISBN 9781493601394; $3.99 e-book ISBN 9781493121533
Amazon; bn.com
A small-town lawyer befriends a New Jersey socialite and millionairess who is arrested for the murder of her husband, turning her law practice upside down.
Plus One: Because Prince Charming Isn’t Always Mr. Right
Sarah Phelan. Blanket Fort Publishing. $14.95 paper (264p), ISBN 9780977992720; $6.99 e-book ASIN B00FS1LVHM
Amazon
When Julia’s husband leaves her, she must attend an old friend’s wedding on her own. Only the best man knows the truth, and the secrets he and Julia share could be why they’re both there without their “plus one.”
Quartet
Heather Refetoff. CreateSpace. $14.60 paper (402p), ISBN 9781480043909; $3.99 e-book ASIN B009M4PH8K
Amazon; bn.com
An Anglo-American Gen-X couple leave New York City for an inherited estate in rural England, where their story intersects with the courtship, marriage, and French sojourn of another couple.
Privileged Corruption
Ursula Ringham. Ursula Ringham. $14.99 paper (348p), ISBN 9780991064410; $6.99 e-book ISBN 9780991064403
Amazon; bn.com
In Silicon Valley, software start-ups are considered high risk, high reward, but are they worth risking your life? Kate Crawford is about to find out.
The Not-So-Terrible Ivan
Phil Saroyan. Philip Saroyan. $5 paper (48p); $2.99 e-book ISBN 9781467558167
(562) 322-8245
A modern science fiction comedy about a surgeon who cryogenically freezes himself to find a cure in the future.
The Devil’s Playground: Book One of the Sapphire Staff Series
Cynthia Sens. iUniverse. $25.95 hardcover (232p), ISBN 9781491711842; $3.99 e-book ISBN 9781491711859
Amazon; bn.com
The first in a thriller mystery series set in the Midwest with elements of humor, history, action, adventure, and a touch of the supernatural.
The Wolf at the End of the World
Douglas Smith. Lucky Bat Books. $18.99 paper (360p), ISBN 9780991800735; $8.99 e-book ISBN 9780991800742
smithwriter.com
A shapeshifter battles ancient spirits and a covert government agency in a race to solve a murder that could mean the end of the world.
Robyn’s Egg
Mark Souza. Mark Souza. $12.99 paper (336p), ISBN 9780985677213; $2.99 e-book ASIN B0085BCLK8; BN ID 2940044806092
Amazon
In a dismal future driven by corporations, where most citizens are human billboards, Moyer and Robyn struggle to purchase a baby. It may cost more than they realize.
Break in Two
M.J. Summers. Indigo Group. $15.49 paper (364p), ISBN 9780992142209; $3.89 e-book ASIN B00GHM379G
Amazon; bn.com
A feisty chef. A hot cowboy. A past that comes back to tear them apart.
The Mysterious World of Men and Women Looking
Al Sundel. Lulu Press. $15.99 paper (214p), ISBN 9781483402383; $9.99 e-book ISBN 9781483402390
mysterysingles.com; lulu.com; bn.com; iPad;Amazon
A mystery set in a singles’ colony where New Age women meet divorce-enraged men. Tougher beachhouse confrontations than Emma Bovary or Anna Karenina ever knew.
All Means All, If You Believe
Gwen Sutton. Lift Him Up Productions. $13.99 paper (246p), ISBN 9781491236611; $8.99 e-book ASIN B00GRIUHF2
Amazon
A deeply emotional journey through one family’s tragedy, life-threatening choices, and ultimate redemption when a promising college senior commits an unimaginable act that shatters his family’s normal, happy existence.
Collection of Auguries: Stories
Annie Q. Syed. McNally Jackson. $14 paper (172p), ISBN 9781938022456
McNally Jackson Books
The writer of the foreword says these stories “are short, energetic frissons to shake the mind, emotions, and senses out of their usual ruts; they prove both disquieting and thrilling.”
Seven-X
Mike Wech. Seven-X Film Group. $10.99 paper (270p), ISBN 9780615505817; $2.99 e-book ASIN B007MF7LV2
Amazon; bn.com; seven-x.com
A tenacious reporter becomes prey in a radical paranormal experiment after committing himself into an asylum rumored to enslave prisoners presumed executed by the state.
Health & Fitness
ePatient 2015: 15 Surprising Trends Changing Health Care
Rohit Bhargava and Fard Johnmar. IdeaPress Publishing. $36.95 hardcover (240p), ISBN 9781940858005; $9.99 e-book ISBN 9781940858012
Amazon
A look at how technology and empowered patients are changing health care globally. With original research and dozens of real-life case studies and stories.
Organic Beauty with Essential Oil: Over 400+ Homemade Recipes for Natural Skin Care, Hair Care and Bath & Body Products
Rebecca Park Totilo. Rebecca at the Well Foundation. $29.95 paper (328p), ISBN 9780982726426; $9.95 e-book ISBN 9780982726471
Amazon; bn.com
Create bath and body products at home with potent essential oils. Eco-friendly recipes are filled with enticing fragrances and soothing organic ingredients.
Juvenile Fiction
Countryside: The Book of the Wise
J.T. Cope IV. Village Green Press. $24.95 hardcover (260p), ISBN 9780985814151; $3.99 e-book ISBN 9780985814175
Amazon; Kobo; bn.com; Smashwords
Eleven-year-old Luke Rayburn has never seen a skyline without skyscrapers or fallen asleep to anything but the sound of traffic. But his life is about to change in ways he never imagined. Ages 8–11.
The Panther/Girl
Michelle Geltner. Of Myths & Magic Publishing. $14.99 paper (241p), ISBN 9780991122301; $2.99 e-book ISBN 9780991122318
Amazon; bn.com
Kira hates humans. After all, she isn’t exactly human. But now she must learn to trust them in order to escape a zoo, navigate a forest, and rebuild her devastated species... and her life. If she doesn’t, she may never find her way home. Ages 12–16.
No Returns
Gail Giles and Deb Vanasse. Running Fox Books. $14.99 paper (234p), ISBN 9781940320045; $5.99 e-book ISBN 9781940320038
runningfoxbooks.com
Three middle-school boys want their fledgling band to get noticed. An adventure of music, magic, and myth that puts a fresh spin on the timeless tale of Faust for young readers. Ages 8–12.
Loukoumi and the Schoolyard Bully
Nick Katsoris. NK Publications/Dream Day Press. $15.95 hardcover (32p), ISBN 9780984161034; $9.99 e-book ASIN B00GIA4N72
loukoumi.com; (212) 397-2804; Baker & Taylor; Follett; bn.com; Amazon
After making fun of Loukoumi’s name, schoolyard bully Igor the alligator realizes that while Loukoumi’s name is different, everyone is really the same. Includes audio download narration by Morgan Freeman, Nia Vardalos, Olympia Dukakis, Gloria Gaynor, and others. Ages 5–8.
Blood Orange Soda
James Michael Larranaga. James Michael Larranaga. $3.99 e-book ISBN 9780991325603
Amazon
Darius is a bullied high school freshman who drinks blood orange soda to transform into a vampire. He learns life as a vampire has its own challenges. Ages 12–16.
Clan
Realm Lovejoy. CreateSpace. $12.99 paper (336p), ISBN 9781493639540; $2.99 e-book ASIN B00GMM93FI
Amazon
Clan 1672 (privately known as Twain) was never supposed to survive the Incubation Tank. But he did. Illegally. He is different from the other Clans—a secret that could destroy him. Ages 12–16.
Karla’s Magic Skates; or, The Edge of the Cold
Sheila Paige. CreateSpace. $7.95 paper (42p), ISBN 9781484160169
Amazon
A brave girl teams up with her skates and sets forth on a journey to rescue a world taken over by ice. Ages 4–8.
Princess Bing Bong Hits the Beach
Vanessa Paniccia, illus. by Susan Shorter. AuthorHouse. $18.99 paper (30p), ISBN 9781491841891; $3.99 e-book ISBN 9781491841907
Amazon; bn.com
In this second book in the series, Princess Bing Bong heads to the beach with her best friend, Ferris. As usual, nothing goes as expected, and this beach day is anything but ordinary. Ages 5–8.
Dead Chest Island: The Secrets Begin, Book 1
J.J. Parsons. CreateSpace/MediaTechnics. $8.99 paper (158p), ISBN 9781494329136; $4.99 e-book ASIN B00H58VB6M; BN ID 2940149079155
Amazon; bn.com
Edison Jones; his sister, Charlotte; and his African-American friend, Jonathan, explore an old pirate legend in the Caribbean and discover some very mysterious technology. Ages 8–12.
The Jinni on the Roof: A Ramadan Story
Natasha Rafi, illus. by Abdul Malik Channa. Pamir. $10.99 paper (40p), ISBN 9780988864900
Amazon; bn.com
Raza is too young to fast, but he longs for the delicious parathas the grown-ups eat before dawn. Raza hatches a plan. Will he get away with it? A tale about a mischievous boy who learns the true meaning of Ramadan—patience and empathy. Ages 4–8.
Jim Morgan and the Pirates of the Black Skull
James Matlack Raney. Dreamfarer Press. $12.38 paper (330p), ISBN 9780985835934; $2.99 e-book ISBN 9780985835958
Amazon; bn.com
Jim Morgan is thrust into a deadly race against old enemies and new for possession of a powerful talisman, with Jim’s destiny at stake. Ages 8–12.
The Last Girl on Earth
Tom Ryerson. Isis Press. $5.97 e-book ISBN 9780981378183
Amazon
Claire and Steve endure a high school prank to discover they might be the only survivors of a worldwide catastrophe. Now what do they do? Ages 12–16.
Pooch and the Prince
Tom Samuels. Inkwater Press. $10.95 paper (94p), ISBN 9781629010007; $2.99 e-book ASIN B00E5SAQR0
Amazon; bn.com
The story of a little girl, a border collie named Pooch, and an Indian-Welsh pony called Prince. Ages 6–9.
Trapped in Oblivion
Ifeoma Theodore Jnr, E. Kachifo Ltd. $4 paper (243p), ISBN 9789785205817
Bookstores
A romance story between adoloscents, set in Africa. It addresses intricate issues like teen pregnancy, child molestation, domestic violence, peer pressure, HIV/AIDS, among others. Ages 12–16.
I Wish Raisins Could Float
Gerald Walker. Gerald Walker. $2.99 e-book ISBN 9781467597869
Amazon
The adventures of 14-year-old Allison “Electric”; her eight-year-old brother, Caleb; Allison’s fat-tongued dog; and Caleb’s dead goldfish. Ages 8–12.
The Sleepy Star
Adrienne Werle-Austermann. 1414 Publishing. $19.99 hardcover (26p), ISBN 9781628474084
Amazon; bn.com
A bedtime tale filled with whimsical illustrations. A sleepy star falls from the sky and has an incredible underwater adventure. Ages 3–6.
The Knife’s Edge: Book 1 of the Ronin Saga
Matthew Wolf. Matthew Wolf. $29.99 hardcover (426p), ISBN 9780989148320; $5.99 e-book ASIN B00CAWXIPU; BN ID 2940044388819
Amazon
Gray, a young boy, encounters nine legendary warriors known as the Ronin, who wield elemental powers. Now, Gray must uncover his past to discover his strange connection to the Ronin before all the lands fall to ruin. Ages 12–16.
Nonfiction
Couch Potato Politics: Why America Is Screwed Up and Why It’s Our Own Damn Fault
Mark A. Prior. CreateSpace. $17.95 paper (328p), ISBN 9781484103135; $8.99 e-book ASIN B00COUXXZS; BN ID: 2940016411781
Amazon; bn.com
A witty and biting primer on American politics and government. Topics range from gerrymandering to the two-party system to legalizing marijuana.
Miracles Matter: True Stories of God at Work
Janet Tombow. Carpenter’s Son Publishing. $12.95 paper (229p), ISBN 9780988940390; $9.99 e-book ASIN B00GWTW7E0; BN ID: 2940149052943
Amazon; bn.com
A collection of true stories from some who overcame life’s difficult times and unique challenges through divine intervention. Each remarkable story gives hope and uplift.
Poetry
The U.S. Presidents: Profiled in Short Poems
Birendar Singh. Birendar Singh. $12 paper (67p), ISBN 9780989280105
(301) 983-0186
A rhythmic glimpse into the lives and accomplishments of the U.S. presidents.
Psychology
WordPlay: How Words Captivate,
Illuminate, Intimidate, Inform, and Imbue Us with Intelligence
Glenn Bassett. CreateSpace. $12.99 paper (308p), ISBN 9781492985389; $6.99 e-book ASIN B00GF0M20U
Amazon
A compilation of the most salient research pertaining to language use. A layperson’s introduction to psycholinguistics with the emphasis on how words shape behavior and become the substance of the mind.
Mean Drunk: Anger, Hostility and Alcohol
William Tappan. CreateSpace. $12.75 paper (132p), ISBN 9781493556670; $7.99 e-book ASIN B00G3FNXFU
Amazon; bn.com
Tappan moves beyond the clichés and excuses for alcohol violence to solve the mystery behind the behavior. Drawing on the latest science, he pinpoints cytokines and their inflammation of the brain as the cause.
Religion
William Marrion Branham: God’s Twentieth-Century Prophet
Victor Sutch. Inkwater Press. $12.95 paper (216p), ISBN 9781592998982; $3.99 e-book ASIN B00B9P2PLC
Amazon; bn.com
Angel visitations, miraculous healings, divine miracles—Branham’s life is presented in chapters that compare it to events in the life of Jesus Christ.
Scientific Introduction to Bible—The Design of Life
Jinhai Wang and DC Jubsal. SJ MedMusic. $6.99 e-book ASIN B00HFFDE4M
Amazon
The book provides scientific notions, findings, and analysis related to the origin of humans. The past of humans is a key consideration for the future. The authors present disaster prevention strategies through design, music, love, and medicine.
Self-Help
Kindling: Igniting a Life of Insight
and Purpose
William Corwin Clyde. CreateSpace. $7.99 paper (138p), ISBN 9781492899518; $3.99 e-book ISBN 9781310543630
Smashwords
Conversational and accessible, yet researched and thought-provoking stories and reflections about priorities, purpose, and love. The book is not intended as a conclusion but a starting point for a life well lived.
What if Tomorrow Never Comes?
Neil David Schwartz. CreateSpace. $12.99 paper (216p), ISBN 9781484900352
Amazon; bn.com
The author’s life is broadsided when he suddenly loses his wife and becomes the caretaker of his young dying daughter. An account of his journey from tragedy to recovery.
Sports & Recreation
Push Dick’s Button: A Conversation on Skating from a Good Part of the Last Century—and a Little Tomfoolery
Dick Button. CreateSpace. $13.20 paper (254p), ISBN 9781494223472
Amazon; dickbutton.com
Everything many of us know about figure skating, we learned from the man who’s been called the “Voice of Figure Skating.” Olympic gold medalist, World Champion, and U.S. Champion Dick Button demystifies this art and sport beloved by millions.
Travel
Moving with the Seasons: Portrait of a Mongolian Family
Liza F. Carter. Saltwind Press. $48 paper (189p), ISBN 9780989018708
movingwiththeseasons.com
A photographic and written portrait of the daily life of a modern nomadic family.
