Cat Welcomes a Special Friend & Author Clifford Stevens and The Book “Find The Seeker.” It Has Been Garnishing Exceptional Reviews and a Q&A Interview With The Author & Master. . .


It is not every day you can be excited about having a few extraordinary friends who are Zen Masters of our current time. I am blessed to say I do! One update about Clifford is he was newly awarded the title of “Clifford Stevens (Zen Master Kiichi Gong),” as he studied Qi Gong, Zen, and meditation under Master Genro Xuan Lou Laoshi for many years before being certified as a Zen teacher in 2016, and now, as Zen Master in late 2021. We worked together when their book was first released in late 2018, and as many of my visitors know, I always say a book is a new release to any reader who has not yet read it.

This is purely true for their best-selling book titled Find The Seeker!: The pathless path to fulfillment and happiness… Many of my visitors also know that I live my life maintaining recovery. I can truly say their book helped me learn to make some necessary corrections within my path that I still use and follow today, and the practices helped me build my self-worth and in being comfortable with who I am in my own skin.

If you go read some of the book reviews on Amazon and Goodreads about “Seeker,” they mesh together a little like this: “Finding the Seeker, the Pathless Path to Fulfillment and Happiness” is a moving and refreshing book that makes the reader look forward to reading it each day and page by page.

The simplicity of reading this book with its simple and understandable language, the meanings will come to form like lightning and rain, followed by sprinkles of magic dust. It is a true pathless path to well-being, a happier life, and teaches how to cultivate the seeds within us to get there.” That is what you gain from reading ‘Find the Seeker and so much more.

They have not only received and awarded a five-star book review given by Reader’s Favorite but it is also receiving high praise by many “Enlightened Ones and Zen Teachers”

Here is more about this amazing read and some of the accolades it is garnishing too!


Reader’s Favorite Book Review – 5-stars!

Reviewed by Sefina Hawke for Readers’ Favorite

Find the Seeker! (The Pathless Path to Fulfillment and Happiness) written by Xuan Lou Genro and Clifford Stevens, is an inspirational non-fiction book on finding true happiness and fulfillment. The book would appeal most to a mixed audience of adults and young adults of any beliefs who wish to find their true nature and understand their spiritual needs. This book guides the reader in learning about the spiritual dimensions that all people share to provide guidance on existential questions, the true nature of oneself, and how to live a fulfilling life.

Find the Seeker! (The Pathless Path to Fulfillment and Happiness) by Xuan Lou Genro and Clifford Stevens is a well-written book that is truly unique. I enjoyed how the book was inspirational and informative in that it taught me not just about myself but also about Eastern religion and Zen. I found myself truly enjoying this book because it felt as if the authors were trying to teach me and help me improve myself as a person, both in mind and spirit.

The fact that the book was in an understandable plain English that avoided jargon greatly appealed to me because I did not have to be an expert or constantly look in a dictionary to understand what was written. Instead, I understood the concepts from the very beginning of the book. Overall, I am glad that I took the time to read this book, as it has changed the way I view myself, and it has taught me what I need to work on to achieve a more fulfilling life!


About The Authors and Zen Masters

Clifford Stevens
Co-Author & Zen Master Cliff Stevens


Clifford Stevens (Zen Master Kiichi Gong) studied Qi Gong, Zen, and meditation under Genro for many years before being certified as a Zen teacher in 2016 and as Zen Master in late 2021.

Born in the United States, Stevens’s career included teaching, journalism, PR manager, and a translator. He studied Qi Gong, Zen, and meditation with Genro Xuan Lou and Laoshi.

The author shares his meditation-imparted experiences, and the Dharma transmission from Genro qualified me to be named a teacher of Zen. He enjoyed writing this understandable, easy reading guide along with Master Genro for those wanting to learn more and practice true Buddhism and the benefits that come with the teachings in Find The Seeker!

Gert Beirer, who was born in Austria in 1945, studied Zen, meditation, Kung-Fu, Qi Gong, and acupuncture in Asia. He was given the name Genro (“Origin of Joy”) Xuan Lou, Laoshi (Laoshi = “Spiritual Master”) by Zen Master Tetsuo Kiichi Nagaya Roshi. Genro Xuan Lou, Laoshi was named Zen (Chan) Master by the Abbot and Grand Master Kun Kong at the Lingyin Temple (Shakyamuni Buddhism) in Hangzhou, with whom he studied 11 years, by Abbot and Zen Master Shi Chan Ming in Wuhan, Province Hubei, China, and was also named Shifu or “Spiritual Teacher” in 2009 by Shi Xue Feng, Abbot of the Ding Shan Temple in Germany.

Genro Laoshi has lectured at universities, appeared on TV, held seminars on a variety of spiritual and self-help topics, taught Qi Gong courses, and published articles and books on meditation. Both authors reside in Austria.


More About The Book Available on Amazon Books & On Sale On Kindle!
https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B078SKPJTP/ Now only .99 cents a download!


Give Your Valentine The Gift of Happiness!


Find the Seeker! with the subtitle “The pathless path to fulfillment and happiness”, based on the tried and tested wisdom of a living Master and enlightened ones throughout the ages, accompanies us on a life-changing inner pilgrimage.

Find the Seeker! is a powerful, straight-talking wake-up call to people of all faiths and confessions, holding up a mirror to our worldly existence, suffering, and the intricate workings of the ego. Immensely uplifting and rewarding, the book serves as a traveling companion and guide, enticing readers with a vision of what we really are -which can only be directly experienced – by helping us unfold our true nature and reboot our spiritual search so that we can abide in the one Self. In this way, seekers become finders, and we can enjoy the bliss and lightness of Being that are inherently ours.

Find the Seeker! has garnered extensive praise from spiritual teachers:

“A unique, extraordinary and extremely valuable work.” – Ihaleakala Lew Pen
“Disarming and worth experiencing.” -John Tarrant
“Refreshing as a clear stream.” -Robert Meikyo Rosenbaum
“The book…touches your heart.” -Hue Feng

“Find the Seeker is fresh as spring grass and refreshing as a clear stream. From the very start, the teachings in this book refuse to be confined to a spiritual checklist or manual of meditative techniques. Instead, the authors again, and again challenge readers to return to the vibrant truth of original nature.

Going beyond optimistic self-help and nihilistic despair, Genro Xuan Lou and Clifford Stevens remind us of how wonderful it is to let go of grasping and taste the vividness of direct experience.” – Robert Meikyo Rosenbaum, neuropsychologist and psychotherapist, Zen and Qi Gong teacher, author of Walking the Way: 81 Zen Encounters with the Tao Te Ching, and Zen and the Heart of Psychotherapy.


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Q&A With Zen Master/Author Clifford Stevens

How did this project begin? 
Zen Master Genro Xuan Lou, Laoshi self-published a book in German many years ago and wanted to share his “insights” with a larger audience. He asked me, his pupil whom he later named to serve as a Zen and meditation teacher, to collaborate with him to do a revised, expanded, and updated edition for the English-speaking world.

Tell us some more about your book. 
A living Master and I, his pupil, have teamed up to offer readers a “new” book based on the age-old pathless path. Find the Seeker! accompanies people on a life-changing inner pilgrimage. It is a traveling companion and guide and a powerful, straight-talking wake-up call holding up a mirror to our worldly existence. It entices readers with a vision of what we really are – which can only be directly experienced – by helping us unfold our true nature. In turn, we can abide in the one Self. In this way, seekers become finders. This enables us to enjoy the bliss and lightness of Being that are inherently ours.

Who will this book appeal to? 
Find the Seeker! focuses on the spiritual dimension all of us share. For this reason, the guide is for all readers who wish to lead more fulfilling lives, get answers to key existential questions, and unfold their true nature. More specifically, it targets people interested in the categories of mind-body-spirit, self-help, personal growth, and happiness as well as Eastern religion and Zen. It is for people of all faiths and confessions, whether beginners or longstanding seekers.

Why is this book relevant today? 
The book is relevant because it addresses the same obstacles faced by people since time immemorial. Just because we are in the year 2018 does not mean that the “spiritual” challenges are different.

Moreover, we are living in a day and age in which people are becoming increasingly skeptical and estranged from what they really are. From a spiritual perspective, many of us are living dysfunctional lives. We often transform the path into being as we really are i.e. our true, Absolute Self into an overly complicated, burdensome task.

Many books and teachings reinforce the fallacy that there are countless “steps” and “goals” to attain before accomplishing this, and so much we have to “learn” before we can “reach” our goal. Instead, we already ARE what we seek. Abiding” in the Self comprises our real mojo. It is ultimately more breathtaking, rewarding, and joyful than any other pastime, activity, work, or form of recreation on Earth. This is a contrast to our fast-paced, fun-loving, self-staging, technology-oriented society. It is just as relevant today as in the past to “know yourself.”

Author/Zen Master Geno Xuan Lou, Laoshi


What makes this book unique? 
First, it is not a new discovery, concoction, or miracle cure. It is based on first-hand experience as well as the tried and tested wisdom of a modern-day Master and enlightened ones throughout the ages.

The strength of the book is its focus on the spiritual dimension underlying Existence which all people share. It also picks people up where they are in a compassionate and understandable manner. Second, the book is not a wishy-washy quick fix or feel-good esoteric porridge pandering to those who want a spiritual baby rattle. Instead, it is a book of tough love, asking people to forego their thinking, logic, emotions, ego processes, and past experiences.

The book is in stark contrast to the majority of books and teachings of Buddhism, most only indulge in superficial descriptions or sayings and provide seemingly “precise” instructions, lists of goals, or steps to take. Third, the book does not slowly work its way to a conclusion but continually repeats key messages to hammer away at our conventional beliefs.

We act as facilitators, hoping the book will fall on fertile ground. Speaking with authority and a sense of urgency, we strive to transform the complicated path of so many seekers into the realization that we already are what we are looking for. Finally, Find the Seeker! aims to help people free themselves from their dependency on intermediaries, gurus, and religious institutions, or from the self-delusion of being less than they really are.

What was the hardest part of writing this book? 
At the very beginning of his famous classic Tao Te Ching, Lao Tzu stated that the Tao that can be expressed in words is not the eternally unchanging Tao. It is a challenge to attempt to put in words that which is nameless and cannot be described. Moreover, it is crucial to ensure that one remains faithful to what one IS and not adapt the book to please the audience.

What was your favorite chapter (or part) to write and why? 
There is no “favorite” chapter or part of the book because all the chapters come together to make a holistic whole. Nevertheless, it was gratifying after several chapters were done to see the book taking shape. This is a book, which is designed to unfold its impact and slowly work on readers.

In contrast to a novel read in a few sittings, a good spiritual book is like a symphony that one can repeatedly listen to. The challenge is for our readers to immerse themselves in it in the here-now, and allow each page to turn into a revelation or an awakening. By doing such, they will enable the book to point to the Isness and Suchness – even if they do not “comprehend” everything right away.

What were your goals and intentions in this book, and how well do you feel you achieved them? 
To humbly attempt to express what cannot be expressed in words, to tell things straight but to make it all understandable and compassionately pick people up where they are. Perhaps the book will serve as an inspiration to help readers reboot their spiritual search and renew their lives. However, the book should not be overestimated.

This book (and any other) is only capable of giving readers a hint of what awaits them. We tell readers not to simply take our word for it. The work of finding the truth will have to be “done” by them. And this work won’t be “intellectual” in nature, but can only be directly experienced – by turning within. A number of spiritual teachers highly praised the book before its publication. Now we will see how readers react to it.

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There is much more to this in-depth Q&A and interview with the author and I highly suggest an inspiring visit to their official website to read the rest here>>> https://www.findtheseeker.com/meet-clifford/ as you will learn so much more about both authors. Please visit and connect with Master Clifford Stevens on Social Media… “Find The Seeker!: The pathless path to fulfillment and happiness” is now available at leading online bookstores! Get your copy now and help the authors by writing a review of the book while you reset and refresh your LIFE!

Please Visit The Authors:
 WebsiteFacebookTwitterGoodreadsAmazonPinterestLinkedin,

Banner Courtesy of Best Book Monkey . (com)




Cat Welcomes Back American Children’s Author Steve William Laible. Sharing News, Updates, New Releases, and a Run For Congress? Steve Sure Has Been Busy. . .


Hello Readers, Friends, and New Friends!

Steve and I got to catch up on what he has been up to the past year since he was with us last. And I sure was surprised to hear he is making a run for political office in his old childhood area where he lived in Coos Bay, Oregon. That is District 4 for those who live in Oregon. He has even written his resume’ of why he wants to serve Oregonians in congress and this little handbook shares why. It is now available on Amazon.

America the Beautiful (Résumé to Serve): 2022 Candidate for Congress (Oregon’s 4th District)

by Steve William Laible | Jan 17, 2022

Paperback

America the Beautiful (Résumé to Serve): 2022 Candidate for Congress (Oregon's 4th District)
By Steve William Laible

Cover by Holly (hollybookstore).

‘Résumé to Serve’ is a middle-class aspirational point-of-view for America the Beautiful meant to engage and enliven constituents. A collection of innovative & ambitious musings that document the author’s thought processes, distinguished military career, leadership, integrity, character, education, experiences, awards & values as he makes his 2022 bid for Congress representing Oregon’s 4th District. This is SO much better than a Voters’ Pamphlet and at $2500 for a small insertion in the aforementioned pamphlet, this book has a cost savings of 250 times that!

“America the Beautiful” is a Must Read! ‘Quality of Life’ and survival of our democracy, nation, and the planet can be achieved by rebooting and repurposing state and federal governments–namely, the White House, Congress, and State Legislatures.

A Founding Fathers’ worthy blueprint that actually serves in the best interest of the majority middle-class and below for America’s Survival-an innovative, a functioning platform of agendas and initiatives-with truer middle-class representation for a far more effective, efficient, and inclusive ruling class societal governmental body.

We simply MUST STOP anointing aristocrats, bigots & bullies, conspiracy theorists, and obstructionists as our Rulers! We Must Raise the Bar!



Now, beyond politics, Steve has also been busy writing and revising two of his first favorite children’s books to be appropriate for children of all sages to read and enjoy, not just for the tots as bedtime stories. See, Steve is the “Big Guy behind the little guy of Stevie Tenderheart Books!” I do believe these two ebooks are still on sale until after Valentine’s! They will make a great gift for Valentine’s Day for all the children and grandkids you love in your life! 💘


Stevie Tenderheart Wait a Minute! (A Bedtime Story)

by Steve William Laible and Nancy Watson | Oct 8, 2021, ~ Kindle is only $1.99 until after Valentine’s Day!



Based on a True Story. In this version, the author elevated the wildly popular children’s ‘picture book’ of the same name, to a 6 x 9” illustrated paperback novella [77 pages] so older children can get in on the fun too. It’s a fuller, richer story.

Summary: A warm and ‘tenderhearted’ story of gladness and adventure abound in this amazingly crafted, splendidly illustrated story about a boy and his dinosaur and SO much more. We’re talking about puppies and parrots and rabbits and chicks; frogs and dogs and pollywogs, but we shouldn’t say anymore…surprises and all.

In keeping with the “BED” theme, of his first book, Stevie Tenderheart My Favorite Place to Be…(A Bedtime Story) where Stevie loves his bed SO much, he wishes he could take it everywhere he goes, in this story, Stevie FILLS his bed instead, with ALL of his favorite things. (If you can imagine.) It’s a hilarious bedtime story with calming twists and turns that both parents and kids adore. The animals and their expressions are just too adorable to miss.


AND THE OTHER REVISED BOOK!

Stevie Tenderheart My Favorite Place to Be (A Bedtime Story)

by Steve William Laible and Nancy Watson | Oct 8, 2021, ~ Kindle Also On Sale for $1.99!

Stevie Tenderheart Books


Based on a True Story. In this version, the author elevated the wildly popular ‘picture book’ to a full-color, illustrated, 6 x 9″ paperback novella (for older children). Stories within stories of gladness and adventure abound in this sweetly crafted and splendidly illustrated storybook about a little boy who loves his bed SO much, he wishes he could take it everywhere he goes.

Author Insights:
The author uses a little misdirection (or leg-pulling) in his books, which is his nature, coming from a comic strip background. He feels this adds to the flavor and fun of his bedtime stories immensely. He believes his tongue-in-cheek writing style resonates with children’s funny bones.

Build your Stevie Tenderheart Home Library Today!

Stevie’s books are perfect for Bright Eyes & Toothless Grins. They appeal to positivity, kindness, and a general feeling of self-confidence and well-being. They are meant to be read ONLY at bedtime as a prelude to sweet dreams. The gentle cadence and leg-pulling lower the noise of the day, helping children feel silly, safe, (loved & cozy) at bedtime. ZZZzzz

Dispensing with “He said, She said,” dialogues, Stevie’s storytelling is easy to read and follow helping parents put their children to bed on time, every time, guaranteed! Just be mindful when you say, “It’s Stevie time.” They will likely hear, “It’s TV time.”
(And that’s on you.) “-)
(Stevie Tenderheart books have been lauded with 600+ Goodreads ratings and reviews.)



HERE IS Steve’s next fun project is this brand new release of “BACKFIRE!” A DIY Fun Board GAME!

Stevie Tenderheart Books Backfire by Kodel: (DIY Board Game) Family FUN Game Night Returns!

by Steve William Laible | Jan 20, 2022, ~ The Ebook Version Also On Sale FEB. 15th!


Stevie Tenderheart Books Backfire by Kodel: (DIY Board Game) Family FUN Game Night Returns! by [Steve William Laible]
A Blast For Family and Friends!


“Backfire” wasn’t created in a think-tank or peer-reviewed by focus groups or industry giants with top-secret, sophisticated, corporate laboratories at their disposal, but rather from the mind of a family man with a creative and innovative thirst for quality time with his boys. ‘Backfire’ is a Do-it-Yourself (DIY) Board Game invented by the author—a single dad raising his then, three young sons, Adam, Chase, and Kyle.

Family FUN Game Night Returns! Speaks to the truly amazing board game this is. The stacking point play is unmatched with anything on the market today. Manufacturing the actual board game was cost-prohibitive on his military pension, so he decided to share his prototype here in this book, so other gamers can get in on the fun! Competition & strategies are always keen. No game is ever alike. Each game has a different dimension and a different outcome!

‘Backfire’ is NEVER boring only exciting!!

‘Backfire’ enjoys elegant play with tremendously crafty twists and turns whether using the multicolored game board or flashcards. One minute you are stacking your dice, bridges, and overpasses (advanced play) and winning! And then, in the blink of an eye, you lose! How will you know? Everyone is yelling “Backfire.” That’s just the beginning of the end. Players then add their point values (in chips) to the ‘Fools Pot’ deciding whether or not to challenge the pot and win untold riches…‘nuff said.

Beyond being the perfect family board game for decades of fun, ‘Backfire’ is ideal for college dorm life too & military personnel stationed in isolated outposts where recreation & morale are so essential. ‘Backfire’ is the elite MUST HAVE board game when quality family time matters!


About Steve William Laible

Steve Proudly Served Our Country!
Thank You, Steve!


No photo description available.
Author Steve William Laible


“I shall be in transports of delight once parents, but especially children–those with bright eyes & toothless grins–discover Stevie Tenderheart books.”

Steve William Laible is an American Children’s Author who lives in the Pacific Northwest.

He ended his Stevie Tenderheart comic strip after five years in publication to write more. He currently has 17 Stevie books on Amazon & Amazon Global in Print, ebooks & Audiobooks, plus his Family Fun Game Night Board Gamebook, Backfire by Kodel, a must-get to complete your Stevie Home Library.

Steve served his country with honor & distinction for 22 years as a Mustang (enlisted & officer) from Aerospace Support to Special Duty/Joint Service tours at the Pentagon, Joint Chiefs of Staff (JCS); Commander-in-Chief, Pacific (CINCPAC) Hawaii. 

As Chief of Administration, USAF Honor Guard (Wash DC); Superintendent of Publishing HQ 15AF; Commander, Civil Engineering Squadron & Commander, Flight Operations (CCQs) in Korea, [honorary call sign ‘ghost’] supporting two F-16 Fighter Squadrons, retiring on New Year’s Eve 1993 as a Captain.

Steve received the Bronze Star device for Desert Storm; Distinguished Graduate (Leadership Academy); Lauded as the USAF Outstanding Administrator of the Year; Nominated for White House Fellowship; unaffiliated 2020 candidate for Congress, Oregon’s 2nd District. Canceled by Covid.

May be an image of 2 people and people standing


I sure hope you have enjoyed learning more about my buddy and friend, Steve Laible.
Before I close I want to share a YouTube Link and really encourage you to not just watch this video, but listen to the words as Steve shot this video some years back about The WHY he loves writing and publishing children’s books. He has a BIG ❤!

He is the BEST STORYTELLER I know, and many of his books are based on memories of his childhood.
Take a listen as the color of the video is a bit rough, but you’ll enjoy it just the same!

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=bvLG26u935g
Together We Make Football. YouTube/RangerBay1

TOGETHER WE MAKE FOOTBALL


Special Guest Literary Article by Our Friends of TCK Publishing. What Are The 2022 Predictions With Publishing Trends and New In Marketing and Promoting?

by Kaelyn Barron ~ TCK Publishing

Free Photo | Close-up portrait of woman listening to music and reading a  book


There have been many notable changes in the publishing industry over the last several years, from the steady rise of audiobook sales to the introduction of AI technology in book production.

A global pandemic and calls for more diverse representation shook things up in 2020 and 2021, so what’s in store for 2022?

We’ve analyzed some of the most prominent trends based on recent studies and our own data and observations to get a feel for what’s to come in the year ahead.

Here are 6 key publishing trends and predictions to look out for in 2022.

1. BookTok is a marketing must-have.

In 2021, TikTok became one of the fastest-growing social media platforms and an essential tool for branding and marketing. The publishing industry also caught on, with many authors and publishers turning to TikTok to grow their audiences.

Following in the path of “Bookstagram,” BookTok appears to be here to stay, with all trends indicating that even more authors will join the platform to market their books in 2022. So far, the hashtag #BookTok has garnered over 34.7 billion views on the platform.

We’ve seen the impact of BookTok firsthand with one of our own authors, Maclen Stanley, who has accumulated over 424,000 followers and 6 million likes in just a few months since his book The Law Says What? debuted in July. Many reviewers on Amazon have commented that they bought the book specifically because they enjoyed his related TikTok videos.

Book reviewers have also taken to the platform to share their thoughts on new books in short, easily-shared video clips, making them an influential force that authors and publishers cannot afford to ignore in 2022. To learn more about how TikTok can help you grow your platform, check out our post on TikTok marketing for authors.

Miu Black Social - Gray Social Media Icons Png - Free Transparent PNG  Clipart Images Download
#Bookstagram

2. Audiobook sales will keep growing.

Although they’re still nowhere near topping print, audio, and ebook sales have been steadily rising for the past decade or so, with the audiobook industry, in particular, seeing rapid expansion.

One major development from 2021 was Spotify’s acquisition of Findaway, which likely indicates Spotify’s intent to give more focus to audiobooks, in addition to their current library of music and podcasts. Storytel also acquired Audiobooks.com, so there are now multiple players on the expanding audiobook field.

As we watch these companies implement their growth plans in 2022, audiobook sales are likely to continue their steady increase. Authors and publishers will want to keep their eye on these new and emerging opportunities to market their audiobooks.

As for the industry itself, there are a number of developments that will make audiobook production easier and faster, including rapid technological developments like AI narration.

3. AI will expand its influence.

Speaking of AI, it’s already being used to write fiction that improves almost daily. While it’s far from replacing human creativity, AI can help content creators find inspiration, retrieve facts, and outline their writing.

Of course, you’ve probably already used AI to improve your writing in some form or another—for example, if you’ve ever used a proofreading tool like Grammarly.

But publishers can also use the technology for plagiarism checks, editing, translations, SEO, and marketing. For example, if you’ve ever gotten a newsletter email with content recommendations that match your interests, you can thank AI for that.

Think of AI as publishing’s virtual assistant, and one that will prove increasingly helpful in the years to come.

4. Book prices will increase.

Inflation has caused the prices of many goods and services to rise over the past year, and it looks like book prices will be no exception.

IngramSpark already announced price changes that took effect on November 6, 2021, raising their print pricing by up to 6% in the US.

In a public service announcement to its members, the company explained that the changes are a result of “several cost increases for consumables, such as paper and packaging materials, as well as an increase in the cost of labor.”

So since the cost of producing books has risen, so too will their prices.

And on top of growing costs, there’s also a book shortage. As this Vox article explains, back in 2008, the world expected print books to become obsolete after the rise of the ebook, so many companies invested less in printing books.

But instead, the demand for print books has steadily increased (after experiencing a brief drop in 2008), and printers have not kept up.

The silver lining is that with book prices on the rise for both print and digital formats, special, limited-time promos like Kindle Countdown Deals could prove more appealing, allowing readers to benefit from discounts while authors can sell more books in a short period…

Apple concedes on 'anticompetitive' restrictions in App Store | Apple | The  Guardian
Reading Apps


Kindle Cloud Reader


“Introducing Kindle Vella”

Kindle Vella brings you stories released one short episode at a time, available on the web at http://www.amazon.com/kindle-vella and in the Kindle app.

Things to look out for if you’re new to Kindle Vella:

Follow the stories you like to keep up with the latest from your favorite characters.

When you like an episode, give it a Thumbs Up to let the author and other readers know you liked it.

The first few episodes of every story are always free–after that, purchase Tokens and redeem them to unlock episodes. Tokens may only be used to unlock Kindle Vella story episodes in the Kindle app and on the web at http://www.amazon.com/kindle-vella.

When you unlock episodes, you will receive one Fave a week that you can award to the story you’re enjoying most that week. We’ll feature Top Faved stories so other readers can find them too.”

5. Serialized storytelling will continue to flourish.

Serialized fiction on platforms like Wattpad is nothing new, but there are more options than ever for both writers and readers of serials.

Amazon’s Kindle Vella rolled out last year, adding another prominent player to the serialized fiction field.

Some authors are finding serial fiction to be a more reliable monetization strategy than traditional publishing. Self-published authors in particular will benefit from this development, as they’re more likely than traditionally published authors to experiment with these platforms.

Sites like Wattpad, Kindle Vella, Inkitt, Tapas, Radish, and other online reading apps will continue to flourish as more authors experiment with different formats.

6. Calls for diversity will persist.

Calls for more diversity and representation in literature have grown stronger in recent years, and with all the work still left to do, it’s likely that those calls will persist.

In 2020, a study found that just 5% of children’s books published in the UK that year featured a main character who was Black or Asian (that’s actually an increase from 1% in 2017).

Meanwhile, in the US, children’s books featuring racially diverse characters or subjects grew slightly from 29% to 30% between 2019 and 2020.

Since it can take several years for a children’s book to be produced, we can hope to see more of the effects of 2020 and 2021’s intensified calls for diversity in 2022.

And it’s not just children’s books that need more diverse voices—according to a 2019 study, 85% of the people who acquire and edit books for the Big Five are white. This means that the people who decide what gets published by the Big Five, and how the final products turn out, are overwhelmingly white.

One way that publishers have begun to address this issue is by hiring editors tasked with recruiting more minority talent and also enlisting the help of sensitivity readers.

Is Publishing a Dying Industry?

The publishing industry is far from dying; in fact, print books rose 8.9% in 2021 over 2020.

And rather than hurting business, the Covid-19 pandemic actually saw many positive developments and increased book sales in 2020—a silver lining in an otherwise dark year for many.

Regardless of trends, there’s no better time than the present to finally write your book, or apply for that publishing job you’ve been eyeing.

Everyone loves a good story, so while their formats and production may change, books and publishing are here to stay.

Did you find this post helpful?

If you enjoyed this post, then you might also like:


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About The Writer and Author

Kaelyn Barron

Kaelyn Barron

As a blog writer for TCK Publishing, Kaelyn loves crafting fun and helpful content for writers, readers, and creative minds alike. She has a degree in International Affairs with a minor in Italian Studies, but her true passion has always been writing. Working remotely allows her to do even more of the things she loves, like traveling, cooking, and spending time with her family.

Cat’s Reading Den E-Book Deals & Steals. Ring In Your New Year & Winter Reading Season With These Fantastic Reads Still On SALE…

Now that the Christmas Season is behind us and the Winter season of reading is here, time to fill up your reading devices with these fantastic E-book DEALS & STEALS!

Just about every author “Lyon Literary Services” represents is having extended e-book sales to Thank Readers for supporting them by purchasing and reading their fabulous books! Ring in the New Year with some amazing reads! CAT has you covered with many genres for even the finickiest of reading cats like me!

I’ll let the book posters to the “talking” as Cat will add the links to Amazon for you to purchase. I am excited to share them, as readers will be delighted to know many are Newer Releases of our best-selling and awarding-winning authors and writers. We even have deals for all the tots in your life!

And remember? Either an E-book or a Paperback book, I hope you will go back after reading and leave a rating and/or a little book review for the author!

Here We GO!

Readers? don’t miss these sales and deals! 🎉🎉💻🖥📳📕 ✨📘📚📚🐾🐈


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For the Soul by Barbara Daniels Dena
Memories and fiction fill this collection with humor, heart-tugging, and full of compassion in this inspiring e-book that’s “almost a memoir” written by Author Barbara Dena now only $ 1.99 cents on Amazon!

Author Barbara Daniels Dena ~ A Readers’ Favorite 5-Stars!




As It Should Be (They Loved Collection) Book 2 of 2: They Loved Collection  | by Shawna James
~Romance Drama at It’s Finest and E-books on sale for $1.99 each. Book One Is An Award-Winner.

Award-Winning Author Shawna James


Finding North: A Journey from Addict to Advocate
by Marilyn Davis ~A Beautifully Written Memoir That Touches Your Heart and Received a 5-Stars From Readers’ Favorite! On Sale on Kindle for $.99 cents.

Author Marilyn L. Davis



Ro’s Handle: A Ro Delahanty Novel by Dave Lager Author
Introducing “A Ro Delahanty Novel Series!” E-books One & Two of This Crime Action-Packed Series Written Around A Female Cop now .99 cents
and New Book 3 only $2.99!



Dark Secrets of the Bayou & And The Forecast Called For Rain
Kim Carter ~ All Kim Carter Chilling Mystery E-books on Sale at $ 1.99 each!
All Seven of Kim Carter’s Titles on Sale On Amazon Kindle
…(Including Her Newest Release!)


Kim’s Mysteries Awarded Finalist In Readers’ Favorite Book Awards!


Award-Winning Author of Chilling Mysteries Kim Carter



Rising Wind: The Weeping God and The Book of Hope
Book 4 of 3: Rising Wind  | by Diane Olsen
A Multicultural Action & Adventure Fiction Series That Is Better Than The “Indiana Jones Saga! All Three E-books of “The Rising Wind Series” on Sale Now On Amazon Kindle From $.99 cents – $ 2.99!


Action-Packed Adventure – Multicultural Thrill Ride by Diane Olsen


Rising Wind Received a 5-Stars From Readers’ Favorite!



CAT Even Has Books and E-Books For Children! With Some On Sale and For Holiday Gift Giving and Bedtime Reading Through The Holiday Season!

Allie’s Slimy Christmas Adventure: Short Bedtime Christmas Story | Picture Book by Shawna James and Alexandria R. James E-Book on Sale For $1.99! Give The Gift of Reading to Children Early and It Will Last a Lifetime.

Now Available on sale in Audiobook for the New Year Reading!

Audiobook new Release For Bedtime Reading!


Brand New Release From Author Shawna James on Sale



More Childrens Books For The New Year. . .

Princess Caroline’s Adventures Book 5: A Case of Unfinished BusinessBook 5 of 5: Princess Caroline’s Adventures  | by Author Anne Fifield… Middle Grade Kids Love Aunt Anne’s Basset Hound Themed Reads! The series has 5 books for the tots!

Author Aunt Anne Fifield


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CAT WISHES ALL MY READERS, FRIENDS, AND VISTORS A BLESSED, JOYFUL, HAPPY, HAPPY NEW YEAR 2022!

Make sure you get your Goodreads Reading Challenge Set After The New Year’s Eve! *CAT*


Announcing A New Book Series by Award-winning Author Cynthia Ulmer titled ‘Beyond Cedar Cove: Underneath The Honeysuckle Vine Book One.’ E-book Now Released & On Sale.


Underneath The Honeysuckle Vine: Beyond Cedar Cove, Book One by [Cynthia Ulmer]
New Book Series and Book One by Cynthia Ulmer



ABOUT THE NEW RELEASE

Underneath The Honeysuckle Vine: Beyond Cedar Cove, Book One 
https://www.amazon.com/Underneath-Honeysuckle-Vine-Beyond-Cedar-ebook/dp/B09N7ZJ5FM/
On E-book Sale For Only $.99. (Also available in paperback and hardcover)

Publisher ‏ : ‎ Mimosa Swan Books (December 7, 2021)
Publication date ‏ : ‎ December 7, 2021
Print length ‏ : ‎ 157 pages


Book Description: “The gospel teaches us to be careful with envy or elevating yourself by deception and falsehood. It may come back upon you ten-fold”…

It began underneath the honeysuckle vine.
Meg Evans came from a privileged background. She thought she was better than most around her. Meg had beauty, money, and prestige. She lived in a fantasy world, ignoring the mistakes she made. When it all crashes and crumbles, she blames her illegitimate daughter Carin for her misfortune.

What will happen as she lies, cheats, and steals to return to the life she believes she deserves?
Will her daughter Carin survive the abuse?
Will Meg change?
Will a return visit to the honeysuckle vine help?


Read “Beyond Cedar Cove, Book One to find out”…

An image posted by the author.



ABOUT THE AWARD-WINNING AUTHOR ~ Cynthia Ulmer

Cynthia Ulmer


Author Cynthia Ulmer is an award medal-recipient writer of her ‘Southern Family Fictional’ series, “The Cedar Cove Chronicles,” a Christian-themed fiction drama series about family life, love, faith, and endurance. Books one and four are medal-winners received by ‘Wishing Shelf Indie Book Awards’ and awarded several 5-star book reviews by Readers Favorite. Ms. Ulmer has released her new book series titled “Beyond Cedar Cove” in December 2021. The author’s titles are available on Amazon, Amazon Kindle, Barnes & Noble, and many online bookstores.

As the author shares, “Some people struggle with what they’re meant to do in life, and others know it all along. I’ve known since I was a small child that I wanted to write–the stories were always in my head.” The Cedar Cove Chronicles is a beautiful book series set in the fictional community of Cedar Cove, North Carolina, which follows the lives of ‘The Jansan Family,’ their friends and neighbors during the 40s and 50s.”

The author describes her fictional family drama as, “Have you ever been to Cedar Cove? Once you visit, life for you will never be the same. You will never want to read about witches, warlocks, and evil forces again. The powerful emotions of Love, Unity, Harmony, Dreams, Forgiveness, Reconciliation and a clear understanding of the Love of Christ will visit you and remain a part of your life.”

These good people will live with you daily in the author’s six-book series. You will not be able to wait until this evening’s quiet reading moments to get to the next scene. It is almost like these people are real. The author hopes the ‘Holy Spirit will touch readers to change the way people in America and the world love will care about each other. “It will change the kinds of books you look forward to reading forever”. . .

When Cynthia is not writing, she loves cooking, crocheting, listening to music, reading some of her favorite authors of Wiley Cash, Clyde Edgerton, and Stephen King. Her pleasure reading genres are Southern fiction, mysteries, short stories, poetry, autobiographies, and biographies. Most of all, she enjoys spending time with her family, her grandchildren, and her friends. Today she resides in North Carolina.

You may visit the official website of Cynthia Ulmer:  Website
Connect with the author on Social Media:  FacebookTwitterGoodreadsAmazon


Now on Sale for .99 cents! Great Gift Idea!

Big Congrats To Our Best-Selling Children’s Author Auntie Anne Fifield. Anne Has Garnished Another Readers’ Favorite 5-Star Book Review For Her Newest Book 5 Release. . .



Cat could not be more thrilled for Ms. Anne Fifield for her new 5-Star Awarded Book Review given by Readers’ Favorite for her latest release of ‘A Case of Unfinished Business’ of her “Princess Caroline’s Adventure’s book series! All of Anne’s children’s books are themed with an adorable cast of basset hound characters. Middle-grade-age kids around the world just love her doggie books.

And she is making quite an impression with moms and dads too! Just in time for the gift-giving season, parents and grandparents need to put Anne’s children’s books on your Santa List for all the tots in your life. So, let CAT get to it and share the fantastic new book review and press release for our exceptional ‘Author Anne Fifield.’ ~The Avid Reading Cat



For immediate release:

The author’s new book receives a warm literary welcome.

Readers’ Favorite announces the review of the Children – Grade 4th-6th book “Princess Caroline’s Adventures Book 5” by Anne Fifield, currently available at http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/1733171398.

Readers’ Favorite is one of the largest book review and award contest sites on the Internet. They have earned the respect of renowned publishers like Random House, Simon & Schuster, and Harper Collins, and have received the “Best Websites for Authors” and “Honoring Excellence” awards from the Association of Independent Authors. They are also fully accredited by the BBB (A+ rating), which is a rarity among Book Review and Book Award Contest companies.

Reviewed By Emily-Jane Hills Orford for Readers’ Favorite

Princess Caroline of Basset Hound Kingdom is left in charge when her parents leave for a conference. She had hoped things would be simple, but an unexpected disturbance, an unsettling one, threatens to ruin her growing excitement about the upcoming ball. Strange things are happening all over the kingdom, things are going missing, and it’s all happening to people close to the princess. Is she the ultimate target? Has someone from her past resurfaced to wreak havoc in her life? Accompanied by her best friends, twins Willow and Daisy, the three make an awesome sleuthing team. But is there someone close to the princess at the palace who is leaking valuable information to the enemy? Who can the princess trust?

Anne Fifield’s early chapter book, Princess Caroline’s Adventures Book 5: A Case of Unfinished Business, continues in the series of Princess Caroline and her sleuthing adventures in the Basset Hound Kingdom. Told in simple language so early readers can enjoy using their growing reading skills, and accompanied by black and white sketches, the plot follows Princess Caroline’s first exposure to addressing the community members. She is presented with growing concern over these unexplained happenings and the need to take action before things escalate.

The princess and her two friends have solved mysteries before and, although the community members are seeking advice and direction as to what they should do, the princess takes matters into her own hands to solve the mystery, all while preparing for the upcoming formal ball. There are a lot of mysteries swirling around the palace, mysteries that even cast doubt on her friends – can she still trust them? With building tension, good descriptive narrative, and compelling dialogue, this fast-paced doggy mystery is a thrill to read.

I especially enjoyed the dog-friendly remarks like Willow’s comment to Princess Caroline: “You’re a pawsome speaker.” Another great Princess Caroline read.”


You can learn more about Anne Fifield and “Princess Caroline’s Adventures Book 5” at https://readersfavorite.com/book-review/princess-carolines-adventures-book-5 where you can read reviews and the author’s biography, as well as connect with the author directly or through their website and social media pages.

Readers’ Favorite LLC
Media Relations
Louisville, KY 40202
800-RF-REVIEW

AUTHOR BIOGRAPHY

Anne Fifield is the creative visionary and best-selling children’s author of “The Princess Caroline’s Adventures” book series. Written for ages 7 to 12 and the young at heart, she is delighting kids worldwide. Her books are unique as she weaves in the elements of her rescued doggies, specifically basset hounds, into each of her stories and book covers.

Anne is the youngest of three siblings and was born and raised outside Oklahoma City, OK. She met and married the love of her life, Tom, and they have been married for 24+years. Their kids are the four-legged variety who had adopted them over the years.

Anne’s career was also her passion. She was an ‘American Sign Language Interpreter’ for over 25-years and taught ASL at the University of Science and Arts of Oklahoma. Since both were her passions, she says she felt like she never worked a day in her life. In 2006, she became heavily involved in basset rescue and co-founded another one in 2011.

Anne, now retired, decided to move on to her next passion, the love of writing. She and her husband have rescued and fostered basset hounds for 20-years, so as Anne shares, “it felt natural to write children’s books with bassets as the characters. Our hounds provide the comic antics and inspiration for all my books. Thus, “Princess Caroline’s Adventures Series was born.”

Anne and her husband enjoy retired life and reside in the ‘Great State of Texas.’