#Bookreview of Harpazo: Book One of the Trib Trilogy

By: Nathalie Bujold Ryan

Publisher: Big Blue Sky Internet Marketing, Inc.

Publication Date: January 15, 2025

ISBN: 978-1-7381061-5-8

Reviewed by: Diana Coyle

Review Date: December 9, 2024

In Harpazo by Nathalie Bujold Ryan, we are introduced to a wide cast of characters that tell the story through each one of their eyes. One day life is normal for each of them, and the next day everyone’s world spins off its axis. The odd thing is that people instantly just start disappearing out of thin air, literally. All that remains of the individuals is their pile of clothes. It seems that only certain men and women, along with all children, are snatched out of their lives with no notice as to where they are going and why they were one of the chosen ones.

With a mix of different characters, men and women must try to find some rational explanation as to why their family members, coworkers and neighbors were taken and they weren’t allowed to go with them. The rumor has it that this could be the time of “The Rapture,” which is found in the Book of Revelations. The Rapture is the sudden instant vanishing of all true-believing Christians on the earth. These people were chosen because they all are true believers of God. If you weren’t one of the chosen, the remaining people are presumed to be in serious trouble with their lives. Is this the time of The Rapture?

The reviewer found this book very intriguing with the entire concept of The Rapture. Ms. Bujold Ryan did a remarkable job entertaining her readers with this concept from start to finish. There was a large ensemble of characters and each gave their own perspective of how they saw things and how they were trying to adapt to their new world of missing their friends and family members. It was a bit puzzling, however, that there never was a definitive answer to where all the “innocents” went.

Since there was such a diverse cast of characters, it was easy to find a few that you could fall in love with and feel as if they could be a real people in your life. The author did a great job of making these characters vulnerable and some naive enough to have them continually question why they weren’t one of the chosen ones as their friends and family members were. Some on the other hand, were obnoxious, and certainly readers will grow to dislike their rudeness to others as the remaining people who weren’t chosen had to learn to navigate their new world.

This is book one in the Trib Trilogy and it’s uncertain if book one will flow into book two’s storyline or not. It did seem that the ending of book one was left too open ended for readers to feel satisfied enough with the ending being conclusive. There were many questions left unanswered, and one can only hope book two will pick up where this one left off in order to fill in more of the blanks.

Quill says: Harpazo by Nathalie Bujold Ryan is one story which will intrigue readers with the concept of the Rapture and entice them to seek their own answers while reading this unique storyline.

For more information about Harpazo, please visit the author’s website at: nathaliebujoldryan.com.

 #AuthorInterview with Michael Pronko

Today, Feathered Quill reviewer Tripti Kandari is talking with Michael Pronko, author of Tokyo Tempos.

FQ: Did the writing process of Tokyo Tempos evolve your prior perspective on Tokyo’s identity?

PRONKO: Absolutely. It’s an ongoing process of reevaluating. I’m constantly changing my ideas about Tokyo. “Ha! Wrong again!” I think—or worse, half-wrong. Identity is tricky to pin down. I think I can see Tokyo from more different angles now. It’s like a Japanese garden—you can’t see all of it from any one vantage point, either in space or time, so when you move, you see it altogether differently. So, I try to keep moving, keep looking, keep evolving. Tokyo changes, and I change, so the writing changes.

FQ: How did you ensure that the cultural nuances of Tokyo are portrayed authentically in the book? Were there any challenges you faced in this regard?

PRONKO: There are huge challenges in doing that, especially when you’re not ‘from’ a place. Still, I’ve lived here a long time. Longer than my students, I often remind them. I’m not trying to gaijin-splain Japan, nor am I doing an academic analysis, but rather, I want to respond to Tokyo authentically as myself. With narrative, vignette, or observation, you’re freer than writing a history or academic analysis. Of course, I try to “get it right,” but if I miss something, that forms part of the process of understanding through writing. I can’t look at Tokyo like a Japanese person can, but I can write about my experiences in Tokyo.

FQ: What measures will you suggest to an author writing about a city and culture that they have been a part of but not immersed in deeply to ensure authenticity in their portrayal?

PRONKO: I think one can always write from one’s point of view if one is honest about it. Fascinating books have been written by people who only visited a city or country once. The standpoint matters, and being upfront about it is key. Saying something like, “The first time I went to Paris, I…” positions you as a first-time observer, though in hindsight or years later, after more visits, you might have changed your mind. A writer can write authentically by making sure the internal response and the external experience connect. Having a good sense of oneself, one’s position, and one’s voice, not to mention a sense of humor, all help.

FQ: Tokyo Tempos is in the form of discursive essays. Which one of these did you enjoy writing the most and why?

PRONKO: Some come easily, so that makes the writing enjoyable in that sense. I loved writing about the change of tatami mats in my home, for example, because I was standing right there, out of the way, as they worked to redo the mats. I was amazed at the whole process. Some hit me like lightning, so it’s enjoyable to have them arrive fully formed in my mind, like the essay on fireworks. But I also like to work through them slowly, like the essay about riding trains. That essay took decades of train riding, but it’s also one of the most enjoyable to finally finish. Stopping to think about ordinary experiences always brings me joy because the writing adds meaning or uncovers deeper layers of meaning. So, it's enjoyable whenever I discover a deeper meaning to things, like toads in my backyard.

FQ: Was there any more challenging or demanding essay to write than others? If yes, what made it so?

PRONKO: I found it hard to write about my student’s death. No surprise there. I wrote about undergoing surgery. Ugh. Some topics seem easy at first but end up being a pain to figure out. I’ll jot down an idea, confident I’ve got a winner. But then, as I work on it, it’s just a giant knot, and I can’t get the words to work. I abandon some essay topics. My folders are chock full of ideas, notes, and beginning paragraphs, seeds that didn’t sprout. Some are embarrassing, like being nervous about giving a wedding speech in Japanese. And it’s often inverse—if the experience is easy, the writing is hard, and vice versa.

FQ: Tokyo Tempos touches on aspects of Japanese culture. How do you expect the Japanese readership to react and interpret the themes in the book?

PRONKO: The Japanese readership was quite welcoming when I wrote for Newsweek Japan and for the Japan Times. “I never noticed that,” was the usual response. My editors were Japanese, so they would help sift through my topic suggestions, so I internalized their filter. Japanese are fairly receptive to misunderstandings, up to a point. So, I try to think of things that no Japanese person has said to me or about things they might not have seen themselves. In an earlier book, I wrote about Japanese wall menus. Looking at the menus on the wall was like being immersed in culinary poetry. Japanese usually welcome that kind of comment from “outsiders.”

FQ: When you reread your essays, do they feel different from what they did when you wrote them initially?

PRONKO: Sometimes, I feel the same, but often, my perspective has shifted, so topics gather new meanings that I didn’t have at first. If I took any one of the pieces now and went back into it, I’m sure I’d add more or emphasize something differently. We too often read for hard and fast answers instead of searching for questions that keep us thinking. I hope the essays are worth re-reading for new feelings.

FQ: I find Tokyo Tempos part of a broad conversation around cultural change and preservation. How do you hope your readers contribute to that conversation after engaging with the work?

PRONKO: I hope it is part of a broader conversation. I’ve had readers write to me from all over, saying they want to start writing about their own country, Korea, India, Germany, or wherever. I think it’s great if readers develop their own processes of observation and expression. I hope readers start to observe that in their own lives, wherever they live. We are at a point in world history where there is a rich storehouse of traditional ways of thinking and living that deserve preservation. But there are also a lot of changes that remain to be made. Cross-cultural comparisons are one way to enhance that conversation.

 #AuthorInterview with Sharon Curcio

Today, Feathered Quill reviewer Shrubaboti Bose is talking with Sharon Curcio, author of Asayi: An Autistic Teen's Journey to Topple a Shogun in Medieval Japan.

FQ: What inspired you to write this story? Is the protagonist based on someone you know or have met in real life?

CURCIO: My inspiration to write Asayi stems from an experience I had while taking classes in sumi brush work when I lived in New York City in my late twenties. I learned to paint and painted Japanese and Chinese language characters but of course could not decipher the meaning of the characters. This influenced the development of Asayi – a copyist who can brush the characters on paper but doesn’t know the meaning of the characters (or language) she is working in.

Author Sharon Curcio

FQ: Why did you choose Japan as your story’s setting? Have you visited the country or do you share a special interest for its culture and history?

CURCIO: For years I’ve been fascinated by Japanese culture, from the very spiritual tea ceremonies to samurai traditions. This past year I did visit Japan and find their values engaging. People are polite and efficient; their cities are impeccably clean, and they care for their land and space. All quite refreshing.

FQ: Is this your first published work? Would you like to share about your publishing journey and the challenges you faced as an author?

CURCIO: Asayi is my first published novel, a historical fiction, and grew from a screenplay I wrote in 2018. The screenplay had the historical time period, 1439-1441, embedded within it and provided plot structure, but the novella required additional research. Fortunately, several good non-fiction resources came my way and expanded the detail and dimension I could add to Asayi. As for the challenges of a first novel, in my case it was technical hurdles: formatting, the need for a submission editor, cover design, audiobook production, and finding the right narrator. A friend recommended the cover illustrator, Craig Gundry, and auditions revealed great strengths of Jennifer Aquino, the Japanese voiceover for the Asayi audiobook. All of these steps in creating a first novel were daunting, time-consuming, and expensive, but were best tackled sequentially in the flow of the work.

FQ: Writers tend to follow different styles; some prefer to stick to a routine while others like to work when they feel motivated. What about you? Do you like to plan out the plot structure before you start writing or do you prefer to go with the flow and keep it spontaneous?

CURCIO: When asking a writer “how does he or she create” clearly responses will vary, but the process remains highly individualized. My screenplay provided the plot structure to ground the Asayi novel. For my second novel in the Asayi series, currently in progress, plot structure evolves as I examine the theft of the Imperial Regalia from the Northern kingdom by the Southern Kingdom. Of course, Asayi has a fictional role in the recovery of the Imperial Sword (the “owner’ of this weapon has the mandate to rule) so it is a highly coveted weapon. Volume two contains the real historical “actors” and the chain of events for the theft of the sword and its recovery. I don’t outline but follow the historical sequence of events and narrate what people on both sides of the conflict do, then add in my fictional characters to augment the drama. So Asayi volume two retains accuracy but is also highly “unscripted!”

FQ: Given that the story unfolds in medieval-age Japan, to keep it authentic and faithful to the established time-period, you have made use of several Japanese words and phrases. Can you elaborate on the research process involved in writing such a novel, especially one that features an autistic teen as the main character?

CURCIO: Jennifer Aquino told me I had used ninety-eight Japanese words in my first novel, but those emerged from my research and were appropriately used when necessary. The second novel also contains a bevy of Japanese words which are explained in context so as not to confuse the reader.

FQ: Tell us a little about your reading and writing habits. What kind of books do you like to read--any favorite genres? Which authors would you consider as your greatest source of inspiration?

CURCIO: Writers who have influenced me include John Milton, Ambrose Bierce, Amy Tan, Lisa See, Kazao Ishiguro, George R.R. Martin and Ken Follett. These writers create worlds, and immerse a reader in another place and time that feels very real and alive. Plus, I was an English-History major and believe that to know what any writer is saying one must know the historical context that shaped the writer. One cannot separate writing from time or a time period. Thus to correctly interpret what a writer is saying one must know the events and issues of his or her day.

FQ: Do you have a new story in mind? Will there be a sequel to Asayi? Would you like to share with us your upcoming projects, if any?

CURCIO: In the second novel, Asayi achieves some literacy as the Buddhist nuns who she lives with train her to connect the characters she can paint or draw with the meanings of those characters. So Asayi develops some ability to converse in writing with others by inking a few characters.

FQ: How was the overall reception of Asayi? Are you satisfied with your work?

CURCIO: Although surprised and not surprised at the same time, I feel Asayi as a novel has fared well given the multiple five star ratings the novel has received. My readers mirror the impression Asayi leaves them with and if they find Asayi’s saga memorable and instructive, this is the best I can hope for.

FQ: In what ways did your past experiences, both professional and personal, shape you as a writer? Is there anything you wish you knew before becoming a published author?

CURCIO: I retired from almost three decades of teaching high school English in 2018, and my experience with autistic students was rather peripheral. I observed students with mild autism in school settings and knew teachers with autistic children. But autism has a wide spectrum – from barely noticeable to severe. Children in the latter category are not mainstreamed into public schools but taught in more specialized settings or in private schools. My challenge with Asayi in the first novel was having an autistic lead character/protagonist who does not speak, so I used italics to reveal her thoughts and feelings throughout the novel so readers could track her inner dialogue. Most readers have commented that the italics were effective and gave Asayi a voice that they could understand.

FQ: Please share some tips for other emerging writers who wish to publish their works.

CURCIO: My guidance for emerging writers is to get feedback, and not just from friends and family but by those the writer may not know very well. These readers are more aligned to the future audience your novel will face, so get to know those you don’t currently know and take their input seriously. Collect these insights, seriously weigh them, and adjust where opinion centers.

 #Bookreview of The More the Merrier

By: Meridith Taylor Strout

Illustrated by: Remesh Ram

Publisher: Stride Publishing

Publication Date: October 19, 2024

ISBN: 979-8989419500

Reviewed by: Kathy Stickles

Review Date: December 3, 2024

It is Ella’s birthday and she is so excited in The More the Merrier by Meridith Taylor Strout. With a big pile of presents and a lot of excitement, Ella is about to learn that it is more fun to share the presents with others and to make new friends than it is to play alone.

On Ella’s special day she receives a lot of gifts but her favorite is a group of five musical instruments that make fun sounds. The present makes her so happy but, unfortunately, Ella quickly realizes that she only has two hands and cannot play all of the instruments at once, which is not as much fun since she loves all of the different sounds. So, how does a little girl solve the problem? She gathers all of the instruments together and goes to the park to show her best friend. Kate is also really excited and picks an instrument that makes a sound she loves. Now Ella starts to look around the park and finds other children she does not know who are playing alone. Without being nervous or unsure of herself, Ella boldly walks up to each of the three children and introduces herself and asks if they want to be in her new band. As the children pick an instrument and begin playing, Ella has put together a new group of friends who then play for the crowd in the park.

There is so much about The More the Merrier that makes it appealing and it is a great book to share with young children to help teach them to share. It is also an excellent way of teaching that everyone should be included when you are having fun and that it is important and enjoyable to make new friends and to be brave enough to do so no matter who they are. There are very important lessons to be learned in this story: from playing together, to learning to get along, to sharing, to making sure no one is rejected and even just a lesson on appreciating music in general. Each of these lessons are explained in the story in a simple and straightforward manner that will be fun for young children.

In addition, one of the best parts of this story are the wonderful illustrations. They are bright and cheerful and they show the diversity amongst the children, which is another lesson to be taken from the story. On a side note, I absolutely loved the little squirrel which was included in most of the drawings and he could definitely be his own lesson in learning to count as young readers try to determine the number of times he pops up in the pictures.

The More the Merrier is a great story, an excellent teaching tool, and very engaging. I would recommend it to all parents and teachers out there to read to the little ones in their care. This is a perfect example of a story that will make learning fun.

Quill says: The More the Merrier is a book that should be read to all children as it teaches such important lessons in such a fun way. All parents want their children to be social and to make friends easily, and this story helps equip kids with the tools to accomplish that goal.

 #Bookreview of Asayi: An Autistic Teen's Journey to Topple a Shogun in Medieval Japan

By: Sharon Curcio

Publisher: Fifth Wind

Publication Date: May 14, 2024

ISBN: 979-8-9900358-0-5

Reviewed by: Shrubaboti Bose

Review Date: December 3, 2024

Set in medieval-age Japan, Asayi: An Autistic Teen's Journey to Topple a Shogun in Medieval Japan revolves around Asayi, the teenage daughter of the chief scribe, Oktani, who worked for the Shogun Yoshinori Ashikaga. Although Asayi could not make any audible sounds or respond verbally, her father never forced her to speak. She had lost her mother when she was very young and barely had any memories left of her. But both father as well as daughter missed lady Omari’s kind presence dearly. They were a close-knit family and with one member gone, the two relied on each other for company. While talking to the housekeeper, the old scribe fondly recollected how Asayi used to laugh more around her mother while she was still alive.

Asayi could not vocalize her thoughts, but she communicated with her brush. She was highly skilled at copying despite not understanding the meaning of the characters. She loved working on the scrolls diligently, sitting beside her father in the workroom and helping him quietly. But Oktani was worried about her future. He decided to ask the Shogun to help him arrange his daughter’s marriage. Little did he know that soon after his death, the Shogun would give the young girl’s hand in marriage to the old man’s former rival Nabui, a cruel and greedy copyist who had taken over Oktani’s position as the chief now. That marked the beginning of Asayi’s nose dive into a period of misery and torture.

Her downfall is painstakingly portrayed by the author, allowing readers to see her subjected to multiple layers of injustice, deception, betrayal and repeated physical abuse at the hands of her changing masters from Nabui to the Eta household. Her inability to speak, a prominent characteristic of people with autism, drew more wrath and fury than sympathy wherever she went. Asayi’s suffering and agonizing experiences symbolizes the kind of injustice and discrimination that autistic people often undergo in our society, thus serving as a reminder for us to be more empathetic.

It is interesting to see how Asayi evolves throughout the story from a timid submissive character to one with a stronger will to survive and reclaim her dignity on her own terms. The fact that she remains mute despite the drastic transformation of her personality and it doesn’t undermine the impact of this change, makes it even more inspiring and relatable. If she were to magically transform into a brave soldier who is able to bark orders, that would have seemed rather superficial and unrealistic. Assuming the role of a vengeful spirit was in a way empowering, as it upholds the legitimacy of feminine rage, which is often misrepresented as an evil spirit or mad women in folk tales. However, it would have been beneficial to allow the character of Lady Moira to play a more influential role in Asayi's life, exploring their familial bond and mutual understanding of each other.

Quill says: Asayi: An Autistic Teen's Journey to Topple a Shogun in Medieval Japan brings a breath of fresh air with its Japanese cultural references and a strong female lead.

For more information on Asayi: An Autistic Teen's Journey to Topple a Shogun in Medieval Japan, please visit the author's website at: sharon-curcio.com

 #Bookreview of Freeing Teresa: A True Story about My Sister and Me

By: Franke James (With Teresa Heartchild and Billiam James)

Publisher: The James Gang, Iconoclasts Inc.

Publication Date: October 10, 2023

ISBN: 978-1999406103

Reviewed by: Lily Andrews

Review Date: December 2, 2024

Freeing Teresa: A True Story about My Sister and Me by Franke James along with co-authors Teresa Heartchild and Billiam James is an emotive narrative about combating sibling rivalry and a flawed system that does not prioritize a disabled individual’s best interests.

Some members of Franke James' family were taken aback by the unexpected arrival of two police officers, two paramedics carrying a stretcher, and two of her older sisters and spouses behind them. Franke’s hope was that they had not come to take Teresa away from their father, who was her primary caretaker after her mother passed away over a decade earlier. Teresa was born with Down syndrome, an extra chromosome, a genetic variant that affects one in every 700 individuals. At 49, all of her siblings—aside from Franke—supported her transfer to a city-run nursing facility, where sadly, the inhabitants were older and frailer. This was done under the shadow of their elderly father, who had refused to admit their mother to a nursing facility after a crippling stroke and who cared for her for 16 years at home, and Franke knew would not have agreed to their plan.

If Teresa moved to the nursing facility that provided end-of-life care, Franke knew that she would be exposed to a variety of illnesses and a lurking wave of death. She was also aware that her other siblings felt a duty to Teresa but viewed her living with them as a burden. Even more shocking was their insistence that their father was suicidal and their call to the police to have him arrested under the Mental Health Act. Furthermore, they insisted that Teresa had Alzheimer's, with which Franke disagreed and to which there was no supporting medical diagnosis to back up this claim. It was up to Franke and her husband to put an end to their plans, which in return could result in pandemonium and damage their family bonds.

The author uses an unusual approach in this true story to reveal profound betrayal at the hands of unexpected members of her family. As you read it, you will be left wondering what their unpredictable string of bad deeds could do next. Franke’s unwavering pursuit of independence for her sister with Down syndrome and elderly father, for whom she is the appointed attorney for his well-being, is endearing. Despite the story's focus on ableist beliefs and chaotic family dynamics, her sister's story—which highlights important civil rights problems for all individuals with disabilities, such as the freedom to choose where they live—takes center stage. She comes across as a loyal, passionate, and compassionate individual who has endured a protracted, difficult, and uphill battle with her siblings that would overwhelm many. Her voice occasionally falters, which makes the reader more acutely aware of the gravity of the problems.

Quill says: This is an engrossing story of love, fortitude, and steadfast confidence in transforming impossibilities into realities. It honors a victim who transforms into an author, artist, and self-advocate who wins art grants and becomes a globally acclaimed "Champion for Change." It ends well and imparts several lessons to the reader, some of which are applicable to any family-related issue.

For more information about Freeing Teresa: A True Story about My Sister and Me, please visit the author's website at: freeingteresa.com

 #Bookreview of You Will Split the Heavens of Long Island

By: Jamie Gegeny

Publication Date: July 25, 2024

ISBN: 979-8333910905

Reviewed by: Kathy Stickles

Review Date: December 2, 2024

You Will Split the Heavens of Long Island is a hysterical and creative novel by author Jamie Gegeny and one that I would recommend to anyone looking for a little bit of fun. While reading the blurb on the back of the book I was not really sure what to expect, but I can assure you I was not disappointed at all.

The story opens inside the Stottlemyre Home for Psychiatric Wellness (SHoPsWe) and we meet many different people, among them the two main characters in the story, Isthmus Theodoric (or It for short) and his girlfriend Rebekah. Both of these characters have what one would call a special set of skills. For Rebekah it is astral projection and, in her case, she ends up learning about three women who have been missing for a number of weeks somewhere in the state of Ohio. Since SHoPsWe is located on Long Island, that is a pretty long distance but Rebekah knows what is going on and feels that she is the only one who can help. For It, he is just a huge fan of getting abused in whatever way possible. A masochist who loves to start something so that another person will come after him with fists or any other handy weapon, his skill may not seem to be much but he is definitely the fighter that Rebekah will need by her side in order to save these women. Plus, she loves him, so there is no way she will leave him behind when she runs.

As the two work up an escape plan so that they can get on their way to Ohio, the fun really begins. No one in the facility, patient or employee, has a clue what is going on but they all seem to end up somehow involved. When It steals another man’s hot dog during lunch, this sets off a set of events that sends these two characters out of the home and on a wild adventure filled with other characters, both good and bad, that they meet along the way. If they find a way to save the women it may, in turn, save them since they are breaking laws right and left as they attempt to get to Ohio. There is no way to put this plot into words without giving too much away and I refuse to do that so you have to trust me and read the book.

Jamie Gegeny has put together a novel that, when you first start reading seems so odd. However, as it develops, we find out that this author is actually pulling together an extremely unique plot that completely pulls you in. It is absolutely hilarious while also showing that these “dysfunctional” characters may actually be a whole lot smarter than most people give them credit for. The dialogue is perfect and each character and the personality and background that has been written for them is distinctive and really fits well into the overall story. While all of the characters are definitely something to behold, Isthmus is simply a marvelous creation, and much smarter than he is given credit for, even though his main goal in life seems to be that everyone else beats him up as much as possible.

You Will Split the Heavens of Long Island is one-of-a-kind and you should not miss it. With a very original plot, extremely entertaining characters, and very well-developed dialogue, there will not be a moment that the reader does not enjoy. Above all else, it is a story that will remind you how much fun it is to laugh and take pleasure in what you are reading. After all, reading is supposed to be a way to escape the real world and enjoy an adventure and this book is definitely an adventure from the first page to the last.

Quill says: It is so enjoyable to read a book that takes a group of people considered by the world to be “outsiders” and turns them into a group of champions that save others. You Will Split the Heavens of Long Island is, without a doubt, this type of book. It is one that should be savored over a cup of coffee when a reader is in need of an escape from life.

 #Bookreview of Raising Hel by Cynthia J. Bogard

By: Cynthia J. Bogard

Publisher: Atmosphere Press

Publication Date: March 8, 2025

ISBN: 979-8-89132-512-8

Reviewed by: Diane Lunsford

Review Date: December 2, 2024

Cynthia Bogard takes her readers on a trip back in time to the Viet Nam war era and the birth of the women’s liberation movement in her upcoming novel, Raising Hel.

In June 1973, in Madison, Wisconsin, Helen (‘Hel’) was about to discover a whole new meaning to what her purpose in life could be. However, we need to take a step back to three years prior when she met Thorpe: the woman who would save her life. Helen wanted to further her education beyond high school, but her father disallowed any daughter of his to achieve such a notion. In his mind, a woman’s sole purpose in life was to grow up, meet a man and get down to the business of having children and taking care of the home. Helen could never live up to her father’s expectations and subsequently, conjuring every aspect of courage, she fled her childhood home to her destination of Madison, Wisconsin. Her mission was to go to college and achieve something more than getting married and settling down.

With meager finances, Helen found refuge in a dorm near the college campus. It was more hostile than anything remotely compared to a college dorm room. Nonetheless, she had a roof over her head and great expectations that her new life was before her. Not long after she arrived in Wisconsin, it became abundantly clear that there was great unrest and dissent toward the Viet Nam war, and this is when Helen finds herself in the company of Ed. He’s older, but so worldly, and given Helen had never had a boyfriend, she was enamored with everything Ed had to offer. Sadly, when the reality of the terrors and baggage Ed brought back with him from Viet Nam are revealed, Helen is faced with a fight or flight situation. Does she stay with the heroin addicted and abusive man she thought she loved? Or does she muster the same courage she had when she chose to leave her childhood home?

Cynthia Bogard does a phenomenal job of laying out the groundwork of what it must have been like for women when they were finding their voice and seeking equality. She paints a vivid picture of suppression, but not with a victim’s voice. Rather, she uses her pen to paint vivid analogies of what it means to stand one’s ground and let her voice be heard. There is an abundance of passion that resonates with her audience. Succinct sentences that pack powerful meaning such as: “…She smiled in that way she had that ancient, wise way that made you wonder if reincarnation might be a thing after all…” are tantamount to engaging her audience. There’s a lot to be said about someone who has such a great command of her pen. I’ve had the pleasure of reading another body of work by Ms. Bogard (A History of Silence), and just like it, I couldn’t stop turning the pages until I reached the epic ending of Raising Hel. Well done Ms. Bogard! May I have another?

Quill says: Raising Hel is a fantastic example of the incredible journey toward becoming a woman of substance.

For more information about Raising Hel, please visit the author's website at: www.cynthiajbogard.com

 #Bookreview of Tokyo Tempos

By: Michael Pronko

Publisher: Raked Gravel Press

Publication Date: December 20, 2024

ISBN: 978-1-942410-33-1

Reviewed by: Tripti Kandari

Date: December 2, 2024

Tokyo Tempos skillfully lays bare author Michael Pronko's mosaic of thoughts and perceptions about his life and experiences in the dynamic city of Tokyo.

In short, crisp, and comprehensive essays, Pronko presents snapshots of different aspects of Tokyo, serving not as a tourist guide but presenting what Tokyo embodies for him: a rich culture, the clash between modernity and tradition, and a plethora of mixed experiences that define urban living cloaked in the garb of traditions.

The stage for the writing journey is set with a deep appreciation of writing as a medium to immortalize the transient. This inspiration of pen leads the writer into the journey of this literary endeavor of presenting sets of fragmented observations that transcend a singular narrative around Tokyo, embracing its modernity and its traditions. The tapestry of discursive essays ensures the raw and intuitive exploration of ideas, sifting through the contradictions of Tokyo - its beauty and mystery, urban intricacy and idyllic simplicity, embrace of foreign culture, and deep reverence for their own.

One of the standout features of the work is a deft presentation of Tokyo's fast-paced consumer-driven life in the background of urbanization. As it comprehensively captures the beauty and the fascination of living in a dynamic metropolis, it doesn't wriggle its way out from emphasizing themes of nostalgia, loneliness, and the search for connection amid urban chaos.

The author blends his writing style with the perfect tint of observation, reflection, and philosophy. While his keen eye for minute details of Tokyo's streets, customs, and traditions presents readers with a vivid picture of Tokyo, the writer also sets the stage for broader reflections as he shifts from simple observations to introspective musings, comparing Tokyo's culture with America's, inviting readers to contemplate not just the external concrete world but also its manifestations on the inner lives of people.

These observations are further enriched by philosophical undertones, combining rich observations with deep philosophical inquiries, making Tokyo a metaphor for the human condition. The city embodies life's complexities, contradictions, and fleeting nature. Nevertheless, the city’s quiet temples, serene gardens, and tranquil moments amid the urban rush also mirror the calm, reflective aspects of the human experience. Just as a human's life comprises layers of colors across different experiences, the author presents Tokyo's multilayers in its various facets - noise, calming silence, isolation, and connection.

The piece caters to readers who bear even the slightest appreciation for Tokyo and its multi-colored life. In the subtext, Tokyo Tempos also emerges as a reflective writing that delves into existential themes, capturing the essence of raw reflection and the intricate nature of one of the world's most captivating cities.

Quill says: Tokyo Tempos is a poignant and passionate presentation of Tokyo as a city of contrast, not just a setting but a living entity representing the modern tension between innovation, progress, and the roots of tradition.

For more information on Tokyo Tempos, please visit the author's website at: www.michaelpronko.com

 #Bookreview of Songs of My Father and Other Essays

By: Gardner Landry

Publisher: Atmosphere Press

Publication Date: January 14, 2025

ISBN: 979-8891325074

Reviewed by: Diana Coyle

Review Date: November 26, 2024

In Songs of My Father and Other Essays by Gardner Landry, we are introduced to the Landry family. At first, it appears that the family is ordinary until you meet Fred, the author’s father. Meeting Fred will immediately change your mind that this family is ordinary. You see, Fred loves seeking attention no matter where the family goes. He will stop at nothing to cause a scene to guarantee people notice and talk about him. This has gone on for years. Every time that the family goes to a special event or out for dinner, the rest of the family walks away from Fred because they know he’s immediately cooking up his next stage performance in front of everyone. The father’s behaviors have been so troublesome that it has left a negative impact on every family member, most especially Gardner. What kind of behaviors has Fred stooped to in order to gain the attention he craves?

This reviewer felt terribly sad how the family had suffered for decades from the after effects of Fred’s actions and creating a nuisance of himself. Whenever the Landry family went out or was invited to an event, the family had to act as if they weren’t even with Fred. Can you imagine having to act as if you didn't know a particular family member because he was making a fool of himself in front of a crowded room? Or how embarrassed you might feel when eating out at a restaurant and that family member starts making a scene? Mr. Landry took the opportunity to explain how he felt throughout the years and just how much the negative behaviors of his father impacted him throughout his life.

From a humorous perspective, Fred was obsessed with quite a few things, but one thing that made this reviewer laugh out loud was that he always had to have mayonnaise on hand for every meal. It didn’t matter the meal either. From Asian food to American food, Fred had to have his beloved mayonnaise jar right next to his plate to complement his meal. If they were eating out, Fred made sure he had those individual packets of mayonnaise in his pocket or he wouldn’t eat. Although this sounds funny and you can laugh out loud over the eccentric behavior the father displayed, it is no wonder the family hated going out anywhere with Fred.

Another instance that was laugh worthy was when Mr. Landry’s grandmother’s best friend passed away and the family went to pay their respects because she was like another grandmother to the kids. During the funeral, Fred couldn’t stay seated and remain quiet. Instead, he cooked up another show stopper of a performance which drew everyone’s attention away from the funeral. No matter what the circumstances were, my heart went out to Landry because anyone could imagine the embarrassment Fred was causing the family as a whole.

It’s hard not to sympathize with Landry while reading his accounts throughout the years. Any reader would have felt the same way he did while all of this was happening to him and his family. To think of the negative impact it played on him while growing up had to be a heavy burden for anyone to carry.

Quill says: Songs of My Father and Other Essays by Gardner Landry is one novel that will make you laugh, cry, and even shake your head a time or two over Fred’s eccentric behaviors. Readers will walk away from this book being grateful that Fred wasn’t their relative.

For more information about Songs of My Father and Other Essays, please visit the publisher's website at: atmospherepress.com/books/songs-of-my-father-and-other-essays-by-gardner-landry.

 #Bookreview of Drausin and Josephine: We Too Shall Pass

By: John H. Wulsin Jr.

Publisher: Atmosphere Press

Publication Date: December 3, 2024

ISBN: 979-8891324978

Reviewed by: Ephantus Muriuki

Review Date: November 25, 2024

John H. Wulsin Jr.'s searing historical novel Drausin and Josephine: We Too Shall Pass follows a family as they struggle with the consequences of making a life-altering choice in an attempt to pursue opportunities and freedom that would have been otherwise unattainable.

A multi-generational saga set in the 1850s, Wulsin spins out a seminal tale into the vignettes of Drausin Valsin Bacas, who, along with his brothers, find out their father's secret of passing on as white to escape racial intolerance, a decision that leads to their banishment. The Fugitive Slave Act, which mandated that runaway slaves be returned to their masters even if they were in a free state, serves as the backdrop for Drausin and his wife Josephine's decision to leave New Orleans and escape racial oppression. He journeys up north with his family to Cincinnati, Ohio, known to many as the Queen City. They are forced to navigate the dangerous world of white identity in Cincinnati while passing for white.

The narrative takes us through the intertwined lives of Drausin and Josephine, who despite their unambiguous Black heritage, hope to be immovably placed on top of a hierarchy of authenticity and identity. Overcoming the fear of becoming enslaved again in New Orleans and gaining wider horizons in Cincinnati, their new fear becomes their color being revealed and losing their white liberty. Consequently, their future and that of their generations are marked as uncertain in a nation polarized by regional ideologies and rising tension over the slavery issue. The two are forced to devise ways to adjust in a divided society reflecting on their families' legacies, the consequences of the choices taken by their predecessors, and the sacrifices they have to make.

Drausin and Josephine: We Too Shall Pass is a canon-worthy work that creates an emotional nuance and awareness in readers that is less obvious in recent times. Wulsin tackles the subject of race with deftness, establishing a framework muscled with dignity and information regarding a part of humanity and history so often overlooked, ultimately making readers meditate on a universal theme deeply embedded in the American psyche. The characters are well-crafted and fleshed out, with each chapter indicating notable growth in their personal choices and actions. The author does an impeccable job portraying the period his book is set in, tackling the sensitive questions about race and class. Poignant moments are vividly drawn, portraying fragile characters who must assuage their past, forging forward, both in hope and sorrow, into an indefinite future. This powerful portrayal of a multi-generational family shaped by class prejudices and circumstances shines resonant themes of family, love, loss, and sacrifices, set within a pivotal moment that played a part in shaping America.

Quill says: Historical enthusiasts will appreciate Drausin and Josephine: We Too Shall Pass by John H. Wulsin Jr. It is a story written with razor-sharp precision cupped with an enduring grace of perseverance in a period where racism created bounded alienations.

For more information on Drausin and Josephine: We Too Shall Pass, please visit the publisher's website at: atmospherepress.com/books/drausin-and-josephine-we-too-shall-pass-by-john-h-wulsin-jr

 #Bookreview of Noodles and Albie On Thin Ice

By: Eric S. Bennett

Publisher: Pegasus Publishing

Publication Date: November 28, 2024

ISBN: 978-1787880344

Reviewed by: Diana Coyle

Review Date: November 21, 2024

Noodles, an Emperor Penguin, loves playing in the annual Midnight Sun Ice-ball Tournament that takes place New Year’s Day in Noodles and Albie On Thin Ice by Eric Bennett. His best friend, Albie the fish, is there cheering him on as she always does.

Since it doesn’t get dark until March, everyone’s activities can go on for weeks. It’s unusually warm and Noodles starts to become very uncomfortable. He decides to go rest in his cool igloo. While sleeping, the temperatures continue rising, causing Noodles’ ice shelf to break away from the rest of the ice.

When Noodles awakes, Albie tells him what happened while he was sleeping. Now his igloo is adrift in the ocean. Luckily, they see an island off in the distance. Once they make it to the island, they meet two adorable, tiny, blue penguins. They all become friends and the tiny penguins ask Noodles if he can help them with a big problem that happens to them and their friends every day. What happens every day that they ask Noodles to help with? Is he able to help them?

This reviewer fell in love with Noodles and his friends. Without a doubt, readers both young and old will instantly fall in love with all the characters. Mr. Bennett created his characters to be fun-loving and children can easily relate to these characters in this story. When Noodles helped the tiny, blue penguins, it showed children that lending a hand to others, even if you don’t know them, is a kind gesture. It will reinforce to children to be willing to help others when they might need a hand. Kindness is the key to being a good person and Noodles and Albie definitely showed that through their actions in helping the little penguins.

Another good lesson Bennett wants to instill in children is that making friends with different people makes you a well-rounded person. With each new friend that you make, you can both learn things from each other that you didn’t previously know. Using Noodles as the role model will make children want to make new friends and be just like Noodles. In turn, they can learn new things that will make them a well-rounded individual.

The illustrations throughout the book were eye-catching and colorful to look at. The characters were adorable and readers of any age will enjoy looking at the delightful illustrations provided. The pictures were the perfect accompaniment to the written story. Looking at the illustrations was just as much fun as reading the written story. Children will love looking at the detailed pictures to see what Noodles and Albie were up to next.

Quill says: Noodles and Albie On Thin Ice by Eric Bennett is one children’s story that is sure to delight readers young and old. It comes highly recommended!

For more information on Noodles and Albie On Thin Ice, please visit the publisher's website at: pegasuspublishers.com/books/eric-bennett/noodles-and-albie-on-thin-ice

 #Bookreview of Conductoid - Maze Masters

By: M.B. Lehane

Illustrated by: Aaron Pocock

Publisher: Pounce Publications

Publication Date: March 1, 2025

ISBN: 978-1-763594548

Reviewed by: Diana Coyle

Review Date: November 18, 2024

When twins Jack and Phoebe decide they need to save their dad, they aren’t quite sure how to accomplish this huge feat in Conductoid - Maze Masters by M.B. Lehane. You see, they both recently found out they are what is called Conductoids, who are people that are an exception to a Universal Rule.

Fate has decided they are the chosen ones to accomplish this task, so they really don’t have a choice in the matter. In order to save their father, they must travel through different dimensions and face terror after terror together. One exceptionally hard task they have to face is the maze. The maze is the Domintay’s ultimate prison in which numerous souls have been trapped for years. The twins know they can’t accomplish this task by themselves, so they call upon past acquaintances in hopes they can all work together to free their father once and for all. Are the twins strong enough and smart enough to accomplish their one true goal?

M.B. Lehane has written this book to be the third and final book in the Conductoid series. As in the previous books, Jack and Phoebe must come together to assist one another in trying to accomplish a direct goal set before them, the goal being the ultimate in freeing their father once and for all from the Domintay’s ultimate prison in which he has been held captive in for years. Although the twins don’t usually get along with each other, since they both have found out they are Conductoids, they have learned to work together, to communicate better with each other, and also to strengthen their powers to achieve more challenging goals that keep presenting themselves in their lives.

This is one series that could definitely be brought to the movie screen and children and adults alike would truly enjoy this action-packed trilogy being brought to life before their eyes. There were so many action sequences of Jack and Phoebe fighting against different enemies, which would make this a wonderful teen action hero movie.

Interestingly enough, M.B. Lehane works as a Crown Prosecutor at the Office of the Director of Public Prosecutions. He has worked on some troubling cases and has used writing as his mental escape throughout the years. He shares that this series has taken him 20 years to write and has changed a great deal over the years to become the books that are set to be published in March of 2025.

Quill says: If you are looking for a creative teen story that will entertain you beyond your imagination, whether you’re young or old, then look no further than Conductoid - Maze Masters. Nice work, Mr. Lehane!

For more information about Conductoid - Maze Masters, please visit the author's website at: conductoid.com.

 #Bookreview of Sidney and Watson

By: B.D. Murphy

Publisher: Worstauthor LLC

Publication Date: December 14, 2023

ISBN: 979-8-223269-54-0

Reviewed by: Shrubaboti Bose

Review Date: November 14, 2024

Sidney Sherlock Holmes, as his name suggests, is a detective but with an interesting twist in Sidney and Watson, a science-fiction novel involving time travel.

Along with his genetically modified canine partner Watson, Agent Holmes is sent to the past from the year 3020 to 2870 on a mission to catch another time agent, Spike, who is responsible for destroying the time machine and jeopardizing their original time line. But after arriving at their destination, they realize greater forces of opposition and conspiracy are at work. As their ability to survive in these foreign surroundings is tested by the new adversaries they confront, the stakes for choosing the right company and investing in proper planning keeps rising.

Without any prior knowledge about the working of the time machine, nor any funds or any official document to their name, after Spike’s untimely death, Sidney and Watson feel utterly lost. Just as they start to lose all hope to regain normalcy in their lives or to return back to their timeline again, a mysterious letter gets delivered from Sidney’s future self, serving as their only present lead. Sidney realizes he has to make some really important decisions and that the survival of the whole world, as well as history as they know it, depends on his ability to do the right thing at any given moment. Ultimately, his choices can either make or break the existing timeline and with multiple enemies surrounding them from all sides, despite being a super duo, they are in dire need of loyal friends who can help them.

Although stories with the element of time travel can often end up being quite confusing for readers to grasp, Murphy manages to keep the plot logical to a large extent, thoughtfully rationalizing the many connections between past, present and future timelines or characters. This effectively makes this story a significantly enjoyable trip. However, it would definitely benefit from an overall round of general editing in order to improve its particular choice of words, and to adopt a more naturally flowing narrative style. Despite this, the plot is solid and that is no small feat. In a market over-saturated with science-fiction novels, it is no surprise that the competition is fierce. To be able to churn out a work of fiction that still enraptures the audience with its storytelling and built-in suspense is indeed praiseworthy.

Quill says: If you are a science-fiction lover with a penchant for time travel, Sidney and Watson delivers a fast-paced and multi-layered series of events that are woven together into a unique story made just for you!

For more information on Sidney and Watson, please visit the author's website at: authorbdmurphy.com

 #AuthorInterview with Brian D. McLean

Today, Feathered Quill reviewer Ephantus Muriuki is talking with Brian D. McLean, author of Our Global Crisis.

FQ: What inspired you to write a book so detailed, that begs for change in our society and in the very nature of who we are? 

MCLEAN: The inspiration for Our Global Crisis did not occur through a single event or thought. In fact, it evolved slowly over the course of the last decade of the 20th century. Throughout my life I have had the good fortune of being able to take a step back from objects and processes in motion and observe “the big picture.” In most cases, I can usually ascertain fairly readily where problems may occur, and if they are already present, what is causing them. Towards the end of the 20th century, I began to take an interest in our planet’s future as I could see that our global society was increasingly becoming a threat to its own long-term survival, and that our then current approach to remediate the situation was going to be insufficient to change the outcome. At that point, I decided to observe humanity and the workings of our socioeconomic society to see if I could make any meaningful contribution to saving our society and the planet. It was those observations that led to this book.

Author Brian D. McLean

FQ: You chose Rapa Nui's instance out of all the well-known worldwide case studies on sustainability. Why so? 

MCLEAN: When I began looking at the various collapsed societies, I found several candidates that would have been suitable for drawing comparisons between past failed societies and our own perilous existence, especially with respect to the relationship between sustainability and continued societal stability. Rapa Nui’s historical record, however, is somewhat unique, in that there is no definitive explanation as to what happened to their society.

Many have purported that it was a breakdown in the interconnected relationship between the Indigenous people, their society, and the local island environment, that brought about their collapse. Others have put forth strong arguments that European diseases, civil wars, or Peruvian slave raiders toppled the Indigenous people’s society. While I supported the former theory in Our Global Crisis, these other theories may have also contributed or been primarily responsible for the collapse of Rapa Nui. In fact, all of these theories may have been responsible to a certain degree.

So why would I choose a collapsed society with such an indeterminate historical record? In truth, it is simply because I do not believe it matters what caused their collapse. What I believe is important, and I assert in my book, is that “Survival has never been a given.” I think Rapa Nui society reflects that perfectly. When the Indigenous people first arrived, the island would have appeared to be a paradise. Bountiful in resources and possessing a favorable climate, it should have been an ideal location to build a sustainable community. Yet within a few hundred years, for whatever reason, their society was no more.

We must all do what we can to support this planet and the unique biosphere it possesses, but we must also keep in mind they we are only part of the equation, and the ultimate fate of our planet and its species may be out of our hands. While the reality of existence may be hard to accept, we should not despair, for as we continue to look farther and farther into the depths of the universe, to find beings such as ourselves, we are gaining a deeper understanding of how truly rare and precious this planet is. Our survival may not be a given, but we must strive to give the entity of Life a fighting chance.

FQ: You have stated that your vision of a stable, sustainable world encompasses many things, and like most dreams, is beyond our grasp. Could you possibly elaborate on that further?

MCLEAN: There is a level of complexity to this statement which I felt was unnecessary to delve into for the sake of maintaining clarity around my book’s central theme. My thoughts on this question are similar to the next question, that is, while my vision of a sustainable world is achievable, based on the current state of human evolution, and various cultural and societal beliefs, such a vision is nearly impossible to achieve.

Throughout Our Global Crisis I look extensively at the effect human evolution has had on human behavior and have determined that humanity seldom looks far enough into the future when making decisions, seldom beyond the extent of our children’s children. This short-sightedness, together with our penchant to resist change, makes it difficult for us to implement any significant alterations to our society unless an event or situation forces us to do so. Furthermore, the expenditure of capital, energy, and resources required to make lasting and beneficial changes to our global society, will be exorbitant, and may be beyond our ability to provide, thus limiting the extent of our visionary goals.

Lastly, and one of the topics I chose to overlook for clarity, is the problem of sustainability. A sustainable environment, regardless of what it is, can only be measured relative to its surroundings, and at best is a temporary situation. This is the way of the universe. Change on Earth is constant, and even our most sustainable solutions cannot continue forever. Thus, even my most cherished dreams for our future can never last indefinitely. But we should not loose hope, or give up trying, for this world and all living things upon it, are all that we will ever have.

FQ: What makes you feel that it is unlikely that the world will accept your ideas?

MCLEAN: While I have not given up hope for our species, far from it, to be truthful, I am not optimistic at this stage in our evolution that we have the ability to appreciate and accept our place as part of the entity of Life. Although there are those among us who appreciate this, as a species we still seem to lack the ability to see beyond our own personal needs, for the betterment of our global socioeconomic society, the earth, and all the species that dwell upon it. We have made significant strides, but one only needs to skim through the news headlines to see that we are not at peace in the world. That we still place cultural and national self-interests before the needs of the planet.

Unfortunately, our fears and distrust of those who do not share our beliefs overshadows any level of care or compassion we harbor for the world around us. Until this entrenched behavior is overcome it is unlikely that we will be able to enlist the commitment and finances necessary to change the course of our future, and the fate of the planet.

 FQ: Regarding the brief reference to "The Internet of Things," which you claim will lead to a society reliant on the internet and technological devices, and whose widespread failure will seriously threaten the stability of our global society, what do you feel can be the alternative(s)?

MCLEAN:  The Internet of Things (IoT) is a marvelous concept and for a multitude of reasons has the potential to greatly benefit our global society. Having the ability to automate and optimize processes, as well as monitor devices and various environments, will greatly improve efficiencies and by extension, reduce waste and costs. As we strive to move our global socioeconomic society towards a sustainable future, the IoT must come to pass. I do not foresee a viable alternative to its implementation. My only concern, as I alluded to in Our Global Crisis, is with the occurrence of a Coronal Mass Ejection (CME), or perhaps a major cyberattack. If we become so enamored with what the IoT has to offer, that we “hand over” the operation of mission critical IoT enabled devices to AI systems, then we are putting our collective future at risk. As it is currently not possible to prevent cyberattacks or shield our planet from the effects of a CME, then the occurrence of a major event, such as we experienced during the Carrington Event of 1859, could result in unforeseen, and potentially, catastrophic failures within our technologically dependent society.

So, while I do not see an alternative to advancing the IoT within our global society, I also caution against adopting such technology wholeheartedly, without also implementing adequate safety measures to ensure either its continued integrity or provide a means to override its functionality.

FQ: You add that each of us must make sacrifices if we want to ensure the survival of Earth and life, as our desired lifestyles are no longer feasible. Perhaps potential readers would like to know some of the adjustments you have highlighted in your book. Could you perhaps mention a few?

MCLEAN: If our planet is to survive the worst scenarios that may be in store for us in the future, there are many changes we, as a species, can make. For most people, adopting measures to decrease global greenhouse gas emissions are the first that come to mind. While this is an admirable cause, two other changes figure more prominently in our quest for a sustainable future, and if adopted, would also lead to a reduction in the quantity of greenhouse gases emitted annually.

While painful to adopt, decreasing our global ecological footprint through reductions in the global population, is one measure that would have a significant impact on our planet over the long-term. This option has been quietly proposed within the international community, but as this is a sensitive issue in many cultures, no serious efforts have been initiated.

That said, the current global economic environment is already having an impact on population growth. Most notably, a cost-of-living crisis is pressuring young couples in many countries to postpone parenthood in order manage expenses. This reduction in the fertility rate is having a noticeable impact on population growth, and if the situation continues or worsens, will hasten our global population’s decline. While this may be helpful, reducing our global population by “forcing” young couples to defer parenthood due to a lack of funds is far from ideal. Better education and family planning, combined with gradual changes in cultural values might provide a better solution over the long-term.

While only some of us may be able to contribute towards lessening our ecological footprint through population reduction, I believe, most within our wealthiest societies can do so by lowering the level of affluence they enjoy. Doing so would produce the greatest benefits to our planet, and in many ways, is one of the easiest strategies to initiate. Ironically, it is probably also the hardest one to achieve.

For years, the simple little phrase, “Reduce, Reuse, Recycle”, has been tossed about. Yet, to be perfectly honest, I have witnessed very few people who have taken it to heart. True, some people make a good effort, but many others simply do not seem to care at all. Such waste management practices, however, have made a difference, yet worldwide growth in affluence continues to create harmful emissions, and our consumption levels have increased far more rapidly than our efforts to reduce, reuse, and recycle.

To bring about substantial improvements to the long-term health of the planet, all of us will have to make sacrifices and suppress our desire to consume. We need to stop upgrading or upscaling our stuff and renovating our homes, especially when its not absolutely necessary. Fix things when they break; donate rather than discard; buy fewer clothes, boats and ATVs, furniture, even lawn furniture, for that matter. We also need to do more with less. Rather than owning a car, ride transit or an e-bike, or walk, where possible. Buy a single television per home, rather than one per room. The list goes on and on, but in essence, we need to do more with less and share what we have. To begin with though, we must stop buying stuff we don’t need.

Some say we do that now, but do we? Most wish they could declutter their homes, citing the accumulation of too much stuff. So how well have we done? Granted, the problem is far more complex than this, and such sacrifices are nearly impossible to do, for we live in a society driven by consumption. We are inundated with ads on social media, or enticed by brands and celebrities to “improve” who we are. Even our dreams are built upon our desire for fame and wealth. The most prosperous societies have succeeded using an economic model based on production and consumption.

This must change, and soon. For the resources of our world, and those that orbit near us, are finite. And once they are depleted, our sacrifices will no longer be voluntary.

FQ: Should we anticipate more thought-provoking works like this one, or would you want to venture into a different genre in the future?

MCLEAN: That is a good question. I have been pondering it for some time now, but have not yet really decided, one way or the other, what path my life will follow. A great deal of the original research never found its way into my book, and there is more that could be said, especially with respect to our insatiable appetite for energy. Yet lately I have been spending more and more of my time outdoors, taking a more “hands-on" approach to helping the planet. So, for the immediate future, at least, another work seems unlikely.

FQ: How would you sum up the reasons why everyone should assess their lives to prevent future crises?

MCLEAN: Watching the day-to-day affairs of our global society unfold as they do, including our treatment of Earth and its resources, I am reminded of patrons at an “all you can eat buffet.” While they may leave happy and content, having satisfied their appetites with a bountiful assortment of food items, are they aware of the waste, the spoilage, or how little remains in the kitchen by day’s end?

I can never quite get that picture out of my head. I look at what we are doing to the planet, our global buffet, and realize that should our behavior go unchanged, then the outcome is inevitable. Our planet is finite, our resources will run out. If we do not want this to be the outcome for our species then we all need to change, not tomorrow, but today.

At the very least, I would like readers to come away with the understanding that everyone is both part of the problem and part of the solution, for the many issues in the world today. Ideally, I hope that those who read Our Global Crisis will be moved enough to make changes in their lives and behaviors, and in the lives of those around them; changes that cumulatively benefit the health of our global society, this planet, and Life itself.

For as I have stated in my book, “Survival has never been a given.”

 #AuthorInterview with Lisa Towles

Today, Feathered Quill reviewer Diana Coyle is talking with Lisa Towles, author of Specimen.

FQ: One of the first things I do when I read a book by an author I’m unfamiliar with is read the author’s bio to get to know them better. Would you please tell us a few things about yourself so that new readers, like myself, can learn about you?

TOWLES: I live in northern California, I'm originally from the East Coast, I'm a musician and come from a family of musicians, I'm a reader of thrillers but I also read other genres, and I work full time in communications. Specimen, my forthcoming thriller, will be my 13th published book.

Author Lisa Towles

FQ: Can you please tell our readers a brief synopsis of your book, Specimen, and what specifically makes your book unique? 

TOWLES: Specimen is an intense ride and what I'd call a Tech Thriller because it will appeal to readers who are into gaming, corruption, and espionage. It takes place in San Francisco and also the South Pacific, because the main character is from the Marshall Islands. I think what makes Specimen unique is that it has all the elements of a contemporary crime thriller but it's very much a coming of age story of 17 year old Thea Riggs who's just graduated from high school and thinks she's about to enjoy two leisurely months off before college. Not! LOL

FQ: Where do you look upon for inspiration for each book you write? 

TOWLES: I look at the world around me and I look inside myself, it's really both. The way stories "arrive" for me is very unscientific and more like an exercise in listening. It's very mysterious, it's different for every book, and I'm learning to love my convoluted process more all the time.

FQ: I loved how well-written Specimen was and how you wrapped the storyline around that insane internet game your characters were playing. Where did you come up with the gaming idea?

TOWLES: Thank you so much! The game part of the story evolved in part because this book was originally a book called Dead Sevens, which I wrote a long time ago and never had published. I rewrote the story about the original premise of a card game called Dead Sevens Crazy Eights, and then with the Cicada 3301 craze of the 2010's, I sort of pulled all those threads together. (Here's something about Cicada3301 in The Guardian: https://www.theguardian.com/technology/2014/jan/10/cicada-3301-i-tried-the-hardest-puzzle-on-the-internet-and-failed-spectacularly)

 FQ: When can your anxious readers expect your next book to be available and can you give us a quick synopsis of it?

TOWLES: Specimen will be out on December 3rd of this year and I couldn't be more excited about the release. Thereafter, I've got another thriller planned for Summer 2025, and I'm currently finishing writing a thriller that's sort of sequel to my June 2024 release, Codex.

FQ: What made you want to be a published author?

TOWLES: It wasn’t a conscious decision to write, I’ve just always done it ever since early childhood. And though I've had a great deal of formal writing training, I always sort of knew how to write stories. And then getting published, well, that's a whole different thing.

FQ: Please tell us what is your writing routine like?

TOWLES: I try to write every day, and I work full time so I don’t write in long stretches. I also try to do writing practice regularly, such as writing prompts, timed writing, etc.

FQ: I learned you write under your pen name Lisa Polisar. What differentiates Lisa Towles’ books from Lisa Polisar’s? 

TOWLES: Towles is my married name and the Polisar books are my earlier novels.

FQ: To wrap up our interview, is there anything you would like to add to tell our readers? 

TOWLES: Thank you so much for this interview and for taking the time to review Specimen. I hope readers enjoy it. If you read any of my books, I'd be so grateful for a short, Amazon review. And to follow or stay in touch with me, linktr.ee/authortowles.