Otto of the Silver Hand By Howard Pyle

Otto of the Silver Hand was originally published in 1888 - and I am amazed that the content within this novel continues to be relevant in today's society. This story is set in medieval Germany when castles, feuds, barons, knights, kidnapping, soldiers, and rescues were common. Violence, revenge, hatred are all themes that continue to permeate within our society. Yet, in both the past and present we can also find humility, gentleness, love, sacrifice and forgiveness. The traits that little Otto possesses will encourage children to see the good and evil in their world and strive to have a positive outlook on life, even when experiencing turmoil within ourselves. Otto's gracious and forgiving nature will inspire the best in all who read this novel.

Otto of the Silver Hand
By Howard Pyle
Publisher: Yesterday's Classics
ISBN: 1599151979

The Word of Mouth Manual Volume II by Dave Balter - Free Download

The Word of Mouth Manual, Volume II is the ultimate illustration of how Word of Mouth actually works. Each element of the book (including the free distribution) was carefully crafted as an example of how you can make Word of Mouth work.

What do Falco and the Grateful Dead have in common? How did Joey Chesnut unseat "Tsunami" Kobayashi in the Coney Island hot dog eating contest? From Tickle-Me-Elmo and Casey Kasem to Crocs and those terribly annoying HeadOn commercials, the book is packed full of real-world examples of what makes people recommend products and services to each other.

The Word of Mouth Manual, Volume II is a free download and the second book from BzzAgent founder and CEO, Dave Balter. His first book, Grapevine, was released in December 2005.

Click on the following link to download this free eBook: The Word of Mouth Manual, Volume II

Personality Not Included by Rohit Bhargava

When was the last time you heard a business book described as fun? The author, Rohit Bhargava, works at one of the largest marketing agencies in the world, and is a frequent speaker on the topic of marketing with authenticity. He believes that personality is the key to building a successful business and career. His new book, Personality Not Included (PNI), is a guidebook and collection of stories every businessperson, entrepreneur or consumer should read, including...

• Why a small restaurant outside Barcelona is rated "Best in the World" despite being closed 6 months of the year


• How the Death of Superman comic book series led to the rise of authenticity in marketing


• Why a small cartoon from the back of a business card is changing the corporate culture at Microsoft


• The secret of where to get a $7 steak in Las Vegas and why you won't find it on any menu


• How a travelling salesman in 1872 changed the face of American retail forever


• And more than 100 other stories of personality from brands like Trader Joes, Timbuk2, Dyson, Bugaboo, Apple, Moleskine, Subway, Virgin America and lots more!

Here's what Jono has to say about the book:

"Rohit definitely nails it. He's right on when it comes to what brands need to do to connect with consumers and his hands-on tools and guides are a pretty sweet bonus that help bring his concepts home. Plus, he's witty, conversational and insightful - all things I can relate to!"

Personality Not Included has been taking the marketing world by storm since its release just last month, with more than 100 positive reviews on blogs and in media around the world. Get an exclusive inside look at Personality Not Included:

"Do not eat iPod": Read the first story of the book...
Download the full introduction

Exclusive Download: The Story of BzzAgent's Personality Download an exclusive excerpt from Chapter 1

Dave Balter Retells How the Bee Logo Was Created Read Dave's story on The Personality Project

Give The Book As The Ultimate Father's Day Gift! Buy the book for Dad

Castles and Medieval Fun

My 13 year old and I read the book "Castle" by David Macaulay together. He absolutely loved reading about the history and building of the castle. He has another larger DK book on Castles and as we read told me about his previous knowledge on the topic we were reading about and expanded our discussion. The images (drawings) being b/w are a perfect match so that details of the castle stand out.

After reading this story, we watched the accompanying PBS special Castle by the same author. The movie is s a perfect tag-a-long going into further details and highlighting real castles and showing the details of the Castle that was discussed in the book.

To follow up on the book/movie, my son is now building his own brick castle. We ordered a kit and it includes everything to make little bricks from molds and then directions on exactly how to build the castle.
I highly recommend purchasing the book, movie and castle building kit together if you or your child is interested in castles and/or medieval studies. All three provide great discussion, for both visual and auditory learners as well as a hands-on learning experience.

Sacrifice for "Freedom From Oil"

“I plan to deliver an address from the Oval Office one month from today. The topic will be oil dependence.”

I tend to steer clear and far away from any type of political book. My disinterest stems from the obvious bias and propaganda that these types of political figures tend to bring into their views and writing. The viewpoint and rambling on and on bores my racing mind. “Freedom From Oil” was written from a completely different perspective and point of view that it took me by surprise. I was fully engrossed throughout the entire book and often referenced previous views and opinions as I read through Sandalow’s ideas.

The format of this book was written as fairly short, but highly detailed documents written to the next President of the United States by the various Directors and Secretaries within the President’s office. Each perspective detailed the pros and cons of how to eliminate the United States’ addiction to oil. The forward thinking approach brings in thinking from all factors which would affect the people and corporations of the US.

These views facing the problem of oil addiction include memorandums from the President, his Counselor, the Secretary of Energy, the National Security Advisor, the Council on Environmental Quality, the Environmental Protection Agency, the National Economic Council, with several articles profiling American viewpoints.

Solutions to the oil addition problems are presented by the Secretary of Transportation, the Secretary of Agriculture, the US Trade Representative, the Council of Economic Advisors, the Secretary of Energy, the Secretary of Housing and Urban Development, and the Secretary of State. Additional viewpoints include profiles and ideas presented by American citizens. The range of solutions presented include Biofuels, Plug-in Cars, Fuel Efficiency, Coal, Hydrogen, Smart Growth, Strategic Petroleum Reserve, and Diplomatic Strategy.

Finally, a compilation of all the problems, solutions and discussion is provided via a press release and “The President’s Speech to the Nation.” The format presented in this book not only held my attention but strengthened my belief that all Americans should work toward finding solutions to our current energy crisis and work toward using cleaner fuels and be willing to sacrifice convenience for what is best for not only the United States, but also the world.

"Freedom From Oil"
By: David Sandalow
Publisher: McGraw Hill
ISBN: 978-0-07-148906-5

“Babyproofing Your Marriage”

The “Babyproofers” Stacie, Cathy, and Julia are a humorous bunch of moms (and wives) that not only give helpful tips, but they also share from their own experiences and experiences of others. Many stories and viewpoints from both the male and female perspective are given. The overall goal of this book is to unite husband and wives through the early childhood years while providing an understanding of what the other spouse needs and wants out of the marriage.

The authors go through lengthy descriptions of how children change marriage, and individuals. Examples of men not helping in the house and childrearing yet yearn for more physical contact with their wife predominate the better part of this book. For those that are experiencing this situation (and by the sound of it from this book – the majority of married couples) there are numerous tips to help both parties get what they need out of the other spouse.

While reading this book, I realized very early in my reading that my marriage is unique and not at all like the partners described in this book. I have been blessed with a wonderful husband who probably does more than his share around the house and has always helped with the children. Whether it is feeding, changing a diaper, washing clothes, cleaning up bodily excretions, reading a story, or sitting next to a toddler while he makes potty, my loving husband is always there for me and my children.

Although this book was not written for my particular situation, it would be extremely helpful for many. This book is well written with plenty of humor along the way. My advice would be to read this book while expecting your baby. Once your baby arrives, there is very little free time to read during the first few months. In addition, this book would be a wonderful shower gift for any expectant couple.

“Babyproofing Your Marriage”
By: Cockrell, O’Neill, and Stone
Publisher: Collins
ISBN: 978-0-06-117355-4

Writers - Connect with Publishers

Someone you know has written a book—maybe you have yourself. You think the hard work's behind you; the unfortunate truth is that the hard work has just begun! Now you need to find an editor who's interested in the kind of book you've written, get his attention, make the connection that will let him see your work.

The traditional model involves researching interested editors, searching books that were published a year ago or websites that might never have been updated. When you find an editor you think might be interested, you package up your manuscript and put it in the mail. Then you wait. And you wait. It could be months before you hear a thing.

And what you hear after those months often begins with "Sorry."

Helpful coaching from first readers

Creative Byline employs first readers, who have expertise in writing and publishing. They'll read your children's picture book or a synopsis, outline, and first three chapters of a longer work. And they'll give you (or your writing friend!) useful feedback that you can use to polish your work so you know that it's ready to be reviewed by an editor, who's a professional critic!

Target the editors you want

Editors from participating publishers (Dutton Children's Books, St. Martin's Press, Tor Forge, and more to come) tell Creative Byline—and participating writers—what they're looking for right now. Writers don't have to rely on outdated information. They don't have to take a shot in the dark and wait months to see if they've hit anything. Writers can search the Creative Byline editors to see who's interested in exactly what they've got.

Guaranteed connection to the editor you choose

When your project is ready, you can submit it to the editor you've chosen. Creative Byline guarantees that the project hasn't been reviewed within three weeks, you can choose another editor.

Discounted submissions for you and your friends

We're offering a one-time 50 percent discount on submissions for those of you who are writers—and Agents' friends who are writers. Use the "tell your friends" button to share the wealth! Here's all you do:

1. Become a member (free during our beta period). It's quick!
   
2. Upload a manuscript.
   
3. During the checkout process enter KY5E28 in the promotion code box.

CreativeByline.com: Connecting people who write with people who publish.

See site Terms & Conditions for complete details. Visit Creative Byline

Release Your Favorite Reads into the Wild

If you love it, set it free — if it's a book, that is. Register your favorite reads with BookCrossing.com, then release them into the wild for someone else to discover and enjoy.

Track your most cherished tomes (or the books you're just ready to pass along) across the globe as they travel from one reader to the next. Getting your book ready for its journey is much easier than actually letting it go. Just create a free account at BookCrossing.com and have a BookCrossing ID number assigned to your novel, textbook, encyclopedia or whatever it is you want to share. Label it with the BCID number, then leave it somewhere. A park bench, subway station, coffee shop — anywhere you think someone will find it. That's it!

You can use the site to locate "wild" books, too. Search by city to see if any have been left in your area. With nearly 65,000 members in over 130 countries, there's bound to be a book close by! But if there isn't anything at the moment, turn to BookCrossing to keep you occupied with forums where you can discuss authors, characters and your favorite books in dozens of genres with other users.

Go ahead and share your love of literacy with the world — you may just get some book-love in return! Visit Book Crossing

You Have Always Been Brilliant

Life changing, motivational books are only effective if a connection is made between the author and reader. The reader must believe what the author is sharing and then make changes in their own personal life. Through “Release Your Brilliance,” Simon Bailey has connected with the reader as a real person, sharing his own personal story and using symbolism that is understandable to all readers in order to share the knowledge he has gained through his own life experiences.

Throughout this journey, we are compared to magnificent diamonds that are already “Brilliant.” We are taught through the process of reflection and journaling exactly how to release the brilliance that is within each of us. Reflection is the key component and Simon helps the reader to reflect on many parts of their life in a new and inspiring way.

We are encouraged to examine all relationships, goals and “Facets” of our life. Once our “Facets” are polished and refined, our inner “Brilliance” will begin to shine and others will notice the positive changes we have made in our lives.

In addition, real-life “Brilliant” people share their stories with us which help to clarify, focus and motivate the reader to answer questions and develop plans to enhance the individual’s own life.

In addition to this book, Simon has many additional tips and resources available on his website and DVD.


“Release Your Brilliance”
By: Simon T. Bailey
Publisher: Collins
ISBN: 978-0-06-145187-4

Resolve to “Feeling Better” in the New Year

How our mind interprets chronic and annoying (non-life threatening) symptoms is a topic that has recently gained much research and respect in the medical field. Through their successful 6-Week Program, Dr’s Barsky and Deans tackle many of the annoying and often debilitating issues facing a very large, stressed and overworked human population.

If any of the following symptoms sound familiar to you: anxiety, migraines, headaches, stress, depression, fatigue, arthritis, lower back pain, insomnia, indigestion and you have not found relief from your medical provider, I highly recommend reading and following Barsky and Deans “6-Week Mind-Body Program to ease your Chronic Symptoms.”

Through their step-by-step plan you will slowly change the way you perceive your symptoms and the way you approach life. You will spend time reflecting, journaling, becoming more active “in life,” finding and using stress reducing activities on a regular basis, concentrating on better nutrition and discovering an exercise program that will work for you.

In addition to examples and strategies, real-life stories and examples are provided for the reader. This is the type of self-help book that should be read more than once to gain the full benefit and to reinforce positive thinking and goal attainment over a period of time. I challenge you to resolve to “Feeling Better” in the New Year.


“Feeling Better”
By: Arthur Barsky, M.D. & Emily Deans, M.D.
Publisher: Collins
ISBN: 978-0-06-076614-6

Overcoming the Force of Violence

Finding redemption and self forgiveness is the difficult task that is revealed through the history and growth of a young boy that ultimately is able to redeem himself as a grown man.

Through the story of “The Kite Runner”, we read and enjoy the deep friendship and bond between two young boys. Hassan proves over and over his loyalty to Amir, while Amir yearns for his father’s approval and love. This bond is ultimately broken by bullies, fear, confusion and the Afghan rules and society. I felt a closeness to each of the characters in this story and felt as though I was struggling to make decisions with them as they were living their lives. I wanted to give them my input especially to Hassan and Amir. In fact, the character development was told in such a magnificent way that one instance took me by surprise.

This is a brilliantly told story and one that will not be forgotten. As an American, I was taken into an unknown culture. I was intrigued by the author’s descriptions of Afghanistan and the various cities and cultural areas. I enjoyed reading about the preparations for and the kite flying contests that occurred in the Afghan winters of past. I was saddened by the treatment of the less fortunate, the abused and abandoned orphans, and the rampant destruction of property and human life by the Taliban.

The foreshadowing in the plotline was woven in carefully so that the reader was not readily aware that this element would appear in the future. In addition, I was pleased to have several of the plot resolutions end in a way that I had anticipated.

I highly recommend this novel and I am looking forward to the motion picture that is in theaters this month.

The Kite Runner
By Khaled Hosseini
Publisher: Riverhead Books
ISBN: 978-1-59448-000-3

"Plane" Jane Discovers Life and Art

“If Andy Warhol Had a Girlfriend” is a fun, lighthearted story of a young woman finding her own identity with the help of her friends and strength that she finds within herself. “Plane Jane”, as she calls herself, is easily identifiable in most every young woman. She is single, has relationship issues, resents her boss, dislikes a co-worker, is bored with her mundane life and is having difficulty finding meaning in her chosen career. These real life issues are so very common among young women that the character of Jane is easy to identify with, even if the reader has moved passed this phase of their life; it can bring back so many individual memories from the readers past.

This novel is centered on the theme of art. However, the reader does not need to know anything about art to enjoy this heartwarming story. This Novel is not a true romance story; it is more in the category of “chick-lit.” However, I would imagine many men would also enjoy Jane’s quirky nature and her experiences in the art world.

I found that this was a very quickly paced novel as Jane and the famous artist Ian traveled around the globe promoting Ian’s artwork. I was eager to read of their adventures together and the mishaps along the way. I was very please by Jane’s character development throughout this story. She began as a very week and uncertain individual who needed to rely on others. In the end, she was transformed into a strong woman who knew exactly what she wanted out of life and carrier and was able to vocalize her feelings and solve her own problems.

One major theme presented in this novel is to always think positive of situations that may seem negative or not fit into our plans. You may find unexpected growth in yourself by remaining positive and finding the “good” in all situations.

“If Andy Warhol Had a Girlfriend”
By Alison Pace
Publisher: Berkley
ISBN: 0-425-20024-8

Dark and Cold.... always

“The Road” by Cormac McCarthy is a very strange, post-apocalyptic novel with unconventional dialogue, gruesome details and nearly stagnant plot line. Although I read this novel very quickly, I found this both easy and difficult to read. Easy in the sense of following a very minimal story line, but difficult due to the negative feeling it left within me as I read.

One very strong theme presented in this novel was love. The characters in this story were nameless. However, I felt a deep and strong connection to the father and son as they traveled to find the good people and a better place. I was disappointed in the end as there was no clear resolution of finding a warmer, safer environment.

In reflection, I guess all books and stories do not have resolutions or happy endings. However, being human, we yearn for stories that give us hope and make us feel good. This book did not do that, it left me depressed and prayerful that this will never be a world in which myself or my children will have to live or try to survive.

Book Review: “The Paper Doorway” Poetry by Dean Koontz

I recently gave my 12 year old son the assignment to reflect on poetry that he had recently read. His response was that he could not do the assignment, as he did not like poetry and had never really read any poetry.

My response to him went something like this “but you love poetry, and you recently were telling me about all the great little ‘stories’ you were reading in your Dean Koontz book.”

His response “That’s not poetry, I liked that book. It was full of funny little stories.”

We had a long discussion after about how poetry takes on many forms and brings many different emotions. The emotions that were felt with Koontz’s poetry made my son feel happy. All poetry is not like that and my son did later admit he enjoys poetry, especially Koontz’s poetry.

“The Paper Doorway” is filled with humorous, whimsical poetry for children of all ages. There are wonderful illustrations on nearly each page and each illustration contains a mouse for your child to find.

This is a must have book for all young readers which will expose them to the joys of poetry.

Lover Revealed by JR Ward

J.R. Ward's Black Dagger Brotherhood is back, and in the latest installment of this bestselling paranormal romance series they're bigger and badder than ever. In Lover Revealed, Butch O'Neal, the hard-living ex-homicide cop goes even deeper into the world of these vampire brothers, with their revved-up sex-drives, strange language (a glossary is provided!) and violent turf wars with the "lessers," who are de-souled humans in the evil Omega's Lessening Society. The only human allowed into the inner circle of this band of "brothers," Butch falls for Marissa, a female vampire who's an aristocratic beauty way out of his league. Needless to say, this complicates his life just a little bit...

What is loved about this installment is watching all the characters grow and evolve—Butch especially comes into his own here. Richly layered, this book is far from "vampire-lite" chick lit, with the exception of Ward's occasional "brand name" dropping. It's gritty, suspenseful and not for the faint of heart, with plenty of strong sexuality and even stronger language.

Preview Lover Revealed by J.R. Ward (Chapters 1-4) on sale 3/6/07, paperback original, $7.99 list price http://www.bzzagent.com/member/campaigns/7608883881/LoverRevealedexcerpt.pdf

J.R. Ward Ward is a New York Times and USA Today bestselling author of the erotic paranormal romance series The Black Dagger Brotherhood. Frighteningly addictive, these books have a great, page-turning effect and have deservedly earned Ward an Anne Rice-style following. She also writes contemporary romance novels under the name of Jessica Bird. She currently lives in Kentucky with her husband. Visit her website at jrward.com.

Get a 25% discount off of any of the books offered in this BzzCampaign by going to us.penguingroup.com and entering the code BZZFEB when you check out. Hurry, this offer expires on April 17th!

J.R. Ward's Black Dagger Brotherhood Novels are Earning Rave Reviews

Praise for LOVER REVEALED:
"[T]hese erotic paranormals are well worth it, and frighteningly addictive...it all works to great, page-turning effect...In just two years, the first three books in the series have earned Ward an Anne Rice-style following, deservedly so; this entry should prove no less popular." —Publishers Weekly

Praise for LOVER AWAKENED:
"[A] raw, gritty tour de force, creating an array of ugliness and beauty, pain and pleasure in a tale that sparks enough plot stunners to keep readers fascinated for years to come. Not for the faint of heart—strong sexuality and stronger language rule here—this genre-bending third novel in the Black Dagger Brotherhood series...is a perfect fit for those who like fast-paced urban fantasy rich in both fury and poignancy."—Booklist (starred review)

"J.R. Ward's third entry in the fabulous Black Dagger Brotherhood vampire series is all adrenaline all the time, starting from page one."—BN.com

"Best new series I've read in years! Tautly written, wickedly sexy and just plain fun. Now here's a band of brothers who knows how to show a girl a good time."—New York Times bestseller Lisa Gardner

"[U]tterly absorbing and deliciously erotic. The Brotherhood is the hottest collection of studs in romance, and I can't wait for the next one!"—USA Today bestseller Angela Knight

"J.R. Ward's unique band of brothers is to die for. I love this series!" —New York Times bestseller Suzanne Brockmann

"When it comes to tormented heroes, few can top the dangerous and tortured Zsadist. In a change of pace, it's the hero who has sexual issues resulting from his violently abusive past as a blood slave. Both the hero and heroine have suffered greatly, but it's Zsadist's journey to self-acceptance that makes this book so compelling. Ward pulls no punches in this dark, dangerous and at times tragic series. Waiting for successive installments is getting harder and harder."—Romantic Times, Top Pick (4½ stars)

Praise for LOVER ETERNAL:
"Like any good thrill ride, the pace changes with a tender story of survival and hope and leaves readers begging for more. Fans of L.A. Banks, Laurell K. Hamilton, and Sherrilyn Kenyon will add Ward to their must-read list."—Booklist

"[A] fun ride."—MonstersAndCritics.com

"[I]ntense paranormal thriller that will have new fans and old begging for more."—BN.com

"Extremely intense and emotionally powerful...colorful, dangerous and richly conceived. With both intricate plots and believable characters, she has penned a surefire hit."—Romantic Times, Top Pick (4½ stars)

Praise for DARK LOVER:
"[A]n awesome, instantly addictive debut novel. It's a midnight whirlwind of dangerous characters and mesmerizing erotic romance. The Black Dagger Brotherhood owns me now. Dark fantasy lovers, you just got served."—Lynn Viehl

"A dynamite new Vampire series — deliciously edgy, erotic, and thrilling! In DARK LOVER, J. R. Ward has created a wonderful cast of characters, with a sexy, tormented, to-die-for hero and the spirited woman who proves his soul-mate. What a fabulous treat for romance readers!"—New York Times bestselling author Nicole Jordan, author of WICKED FANTASY

"J.R. Ward makes an exceptionally polished debut in this intense paranormal romance."—BN.com

"It's not easy to find a new twist on the vampire myth, but Ward succeeds beautifully. This dark and compelling world is filled with enticing romance as well as perilous adventure. With myriad possibilities to choose from, the Black Dagger Brotherhood series promises tons of thrills and chills."—Romantic Times, Top Pick (4½ stars)

"J.R. Ward takes you deep into her intense, dark world of vampires and holds you captive until her last breathless word. This is the first in her series 'Black Dagger Brotherhood,' and it's sure to satisfy lovers of vampire romance everywhere." —Affaire de Coeur (Reviewer Pick, 5 Stars)

In Persuasion Nation by George Saunders

Check out reviews for In Persuasion Nation by George Saunders (part 1 and 2). You can also see him in person. That's right, fans. Take a look at his upcoming book tour dates:

George Saunders Book Tour Dates
Feb 8: Canisius College (Buffalo NY)
March 7-8: Cornell
March 14-15: Portland, OR (with Mary Gaitskill)
March 30: Housing Works Bookstore, New York, NY (with Jonathan Lethem)
April 5: Virginia Commonwealth University
April 14: Satire Festival, Maryland
April 17-18: Oberlin College (Oberlin, Ohio)

One favorite take on In Persuasion Nation is from The Philadelphia Inquirer which describes Saunders as "Kafka trapped in a Jerry Springer universe." (Runner up? "A marketing expert gone mad.") So what does that mean? Oh, let's see ... how about bottomless greed, maniacal competitiveness, hyper-materialism, environmental obliviousness and spiritual callousness? George Saunders' collection of short stories explores a world in which junk food is not only alive, but aggressive; people speak in television commercial sound bites and orphans get sold to a market research firm.

A social satirist, Saunders has earned enthusiastic acclaim (including comparisons to George Orwell and Kurt Vonnegut) and a devoted cult following, thanks to his first two story collections and the recent novella The Brief and Frightening Reign of Phil. His best work yet, In Persuasion Nation features 12 brilliant stories of regular people living in a culture obsessed with entertainment and short-term fulfillment. Both strange and eerily familiar, this collection inspired some pretty fascinating conversations around our office!

Preview In Persuasion Nation by George Saunders (two stories) on sale 3/6/07, paperback, $14.00 list price

George Saunders Saunders is the author of CivilWarLand in Bad Decline and Pastoralia, both of which were New York Times Notable Books, and the political novella The Brief and Frightening Reign of Phil. He also wrote a children's book, The Very Persistent Gappers of Frip, which was a New York Times bestseller. In 2006, he was awarded a MacArthur Fellowship, making him an official genius. He writes regularly for The New Yorker and Harper's, as well as for Esquire, GQ and The New York Times Magazine. Saunders teaches at Syracuse University. Visit the book's website at inpersuasionnation.com, a goldmine of reviews, fun downloads and information.

Get a 25% discount off of this book offered in this BzzCampaign by going to us.penguingroup.com and entering the code BZZFEB when you check out. Hurry, this offer expires on April 17th!