A sensitive and insightful new book on helping children cope with bereavement

A Grief Unobserved

By Maggie Kindred

There is a wonderful book by C S Lewis in which he describes the process of coming to terms with his bereavement - the 'grief observed' which most adults will experience at some time in their lives… this book is about the grief not observed, that of very young children. It is for parents, carers, and professionals who work with them.

Very often the remaining parent, close relatives and well-meaning friends, are understandably so involved with their own grief that they try to sweep the child's problem under the carpet. They can regard apparent lack of reaction in the child with relief, rather than as a danger signal.

“This book is essentially practical - it is meant to make 'therapy' an everyday concept, so avoids jargon and theoretical language where possible.” says Author Maggie Kindred.

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“Insightful and sensitive” …publishedbestsellers.com

Genre: Family & Relationships: Death, Grief, Bereavement
ISBN: 978-1-907728-37-2
Publication Date: 23 February 2012
Edition/Format: 1st/Paperback
Book Size: 203 x 127 mm, 60pp

A stirring true story of triumph and recovery from breast cancer

Mammograms Save Lives

By Avril Dalziel Saunders

Avril was diagnosed with breast cancer in March 2011. After a mammogram she was called back to receive the devastating news that she had breast cancer. She felt well, had no symptoms, had never smoked, ate a healthy diet and exercised regularly, so how could this be? There was no explanation, it can happen to anyone!

Author Avril Dalziel Saunders says ‘…I want to inspire and encourage these women as well as women all over the world to have regular checks. …my profit from the book sales will go to Breast Cancer Care and Macmillan Nurses. I am shouting this out loud…‘MAMMOGRAMS SAVE LIVES!’…

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“Inspiring and triumphant” …publishedbestsellers.com

Genre: Coping with illness and specific conditions
ISBN: 978-1-907728-36-5
Publication Date: 23 February 2012
Edition/Format: 1st/Paperback
Book Size: 203 x 127 mm 70pp

Exhilarating autobiography of 70 year old desert runner

Me and My Shadow

By Ray Matthews

Exhilarating autobiography of 70 year old desert runner and his extraordinary 100 miles run round Rotherham.

What kind of man runs 100 miles at the age of 70? What makes anyone want to run 100 miles? Who decides what the right age is to achieve your dreams?

Throughout a lifetime, everyone has the opportunity to meet truly exceptional people. Ray Matthews is one of them. From being a cocky ginger haired, Yorkshire lad who just wanted to “have a go at boxing,” to his recent 100km Sahara Desert race, Ray’s life is truly inspiring and anyone seeking to take on the impossible should read this book.

Ray writes with a passion that reflects his fervour for life. Feel the emotion as a young Ray takes steps that help him discover the most important mentors; who lead him to make the hardest choices; which made the biggest differences in his life.

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“Extraordinary and exhilarating” …publishedbestsellers.com

Genre: Autobiography: sport

ISBN: 978-1-907728-35-8
Publication Date: 23 February 2012
Edition/Format: 1st/Paperback
Book Size: 210 x 148 mm 118pp

An engaging and wonderfully entertaining mystery novel

Another classic British detective fiction by Julius Falconer

Fancy a twenty-first-century murder linked to an eighteenth-century parish register? - with a stroll through the byways of ancient Middle Eastern languages, a piece of eighteenth-century silver, a spot of genealogy and trips to France, Italy and Austria thrown in? Then this is the book for you!

The discovery of the body of a petty criminal one winter’s night in 2011, in a quiet Yorkshire hamlet, sets in train a series of events which stretches Inspector Walter Moat’s capabilities to the utmost. His wily opponent, as he eventually discovers, is an elusive master-criminal called Lomax, who weaves a devious and ruthless path to achieve his goals. Moat and his sergeant find themselves attempting to nail a crook intent on thwarting the resolve of a friendless waif…

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“A triumph of literary wit” …publishedbestsellers.com

Genre: Fiction: Crime Mystery

ISBN: 978-1-907728-34-1

Publication Date: 16 February 2012

Edition/Format: 1st/Paperback

Book Size: 210 x 148 mm 154pp

Book Savvy Spotlight on John Davies

Bringing you exclusive interviews with authors featured in the Book Savvy Newsletter.
Our Guest is John Davies*
Enjoy the interview.

Q1. Can you tell us about yourself and your book 'Lyrics and Limericks'.
I was born in Cwmafan, South Wales in 1948, attended Glanafan Grammar School, worked for 30 years as a chemist for BP Chemicals and retired in 2002. Married to Adrianne in 1971 and son, Ian, born in 1979. Our granddaughter, Freya, was born in 2010 and is the apple of my eye. I started writing as a hobby in retirement and 'Lyrics and Limericks' is my third book. I play guitar, have written some songs and also some poetry. The thought occurred to me, are song lyrics poetry? I sought the opinion of several songwriters and poets and their thoughts are included in the book. Having written many limericks, the book title required no thought and just tripped off my tongue.

Q2. When you write, what emotion do you seek to evoke in your readers?
That depends entirely on what I'm writing. I have written poems which I hope have evoked sadness and sympathy in the reader. I wanted to entertain the crowd with the speech at my son's wedding. I told him that the real secret to a successful marriage is just two words, "Yes, dear". Lyrics and Limericks is a light hearted look at the worlds of poetry and song writing. I hope that I've made it an entertaining read.

Q3. Have you always wanted to be a writer? Why did you start writing?
Deep down inside I probably did, but it was never a conscious thought in my early years. There was always something else more important like bands, girls and rugby. Then along came marriage, a mortgage and a family. I'd always enjoyed writing essays at school, retirement provided me with the opportunity to pick up my pen again.

Q4. What are your favourite aspects of writing? And the most challenging?
Strange as it may seem, I actually enjoy the physical act of writing with a pen on paper. Thoughts are fleeting, committing them to paper is permanent (I hope). I write everything by hand first. I then have to type it into the computer, which is a good form of revision as well. Because I have so many other interests, my mind is never full of ideas. Coming up with a good idea is sometimes a real challenge.

Q5. What inspired you to write "Lyrics and Limericks"?
I joined my first band in 1965. We couldn't decide on a name so we called ourselves "The undecided". Since then I've had a great interest in music and have written many songs. I have also written many poems including a large number of limericks which had never been published. The lyrics of Bob Dylan are regarded by many as pure poetry with music. Can poetry be called lyrics without music? This was the underlying thought which inspired me to write "Lyrics and Limericks". The book, however, is not a type of textbook; I have tended to the humorous throughout.

Q6. How do you write your books? Do you plan it or do you just get an idea and run with it?
It has varied with each of my three books. The first was a Welsh language biography of singer/songwriter Geraint Griffiths. I recorded a series of interviews with Geraint and wrote them up after as soon as possible. "Chester to Chepstow" was my second book. This was the account of my 600 mile cycle trip around the coastline of Wales. I kept a journal during this trip and wrote it all up over a few months after my return. I had an idea and a plan for "Lyrics and Limericks" and more or less followed it except for a few ideas which occurred to me on the way.

Q7. Are there any favourite authors or books that have had a strong influence on you?
There are many authors that I admire and many books that I have really enjoyed. Tolkien, Conan Doyle, Forester, Orwell, Irving just to name a few. I don't think any of them have influenced my writing because I've just tried to be myself. My favourite book is "The Lord of the Rings". I've read that 17 times!

Q8. What are your interests when you are not writing?
Every morning is devoted to athletics. I train every day. Winter is devoted to cross country and summer to track and field. I have been Welsh Masters javelin champion in my age group nearly every year since 1989. I am treasurer of Port Talbot Harriers and president of Welsh Masters Athletics. I own six guitars (I can only play one at a time though!) and play in three bands. I am currently writing some instrumental songs for my band, Marconi Beach Sound, which is my main musical project. All these things have to be put on one side though, when I'm babysitting my beautiful granddaughter Freya.

Q9. What steps have you taken to market your books?
All my books are on Myspace and Facebook. I also have a PublishedBestsellers.com blog site. In addition, I sent details with a photo to the local press and also a circular by email and snailmail to booksellers, libraries and reading groups.

Q10. If you had to pick just one book marketing tool that you've used to promote your book, which would you say has been the most effective?
Circulars by email, I've probably had more response from this source.

Q11. Do you do more promoting online or offline and which do you prefer?
Online is easier and cheaper, so that's what I prefer to do.

Q12. What is your target audience for this book?
Musicians, songwriters, poets and anyone who just enjoys an entertaining read.

Q13. What kind of reactions and reviews have you received about your book?
Relatives and friends have said how much they have enjoyed it. Peter Finch, former Chief Executive of the Welsh Academi, sent me this email: "This is a lovely book. I'm halfway through it and am finding it pretty entertaining. I hope sales go well."

Q14. Are you concerned about the effect of e-books on traditional books?
They do seem to have become popular. Personally, I would never favour e-books over real books. I get the greatest pleasure in handling all books from lovely old leather bound editions down to the lowly paperback. E-books have their place in modern society, but in my opinion, they will never replace the printed word.

Q15. You have written three books, do you have others in the pipeline?
Yes, I do have another book in the pipeline. As I said before, my granddaughter Freya, was born in 2010 and that gave me the idea to write a book of children's poetry. Hopefully I will finish it by the time she can read. I haven't got a title yet, but some of the poems are called - "The Frog and the Hog", "Sammy the Slug" and "The Nine Stone Cowboy".

Q16. What advice would you give to aspiring writers?
First of all, you need to read as much as possible. The art of good writing becomes ingrained when you read good writing. Don't try to copy the style of a good writer, be yourself and develop a style of your own. I think it helps if you can write on a subject that you enjoy reading about. Rejection is inevitable in the world of publishing. Never give up, keep trying...

Thank you for your time. We wish you every success in your writing career.

*John Davies is a song writer and poet. He is also an athlete and has been the Welsh Masters javelin champion in his age group nearly every year since 1989. He is the Treasurer of Port Talbot Harriers and President of Welsh Masters Athletics.

The following are the two of John's books, published by Pneuma Springs Publishing: 'Lyrics and Limericks' and 'Chester to Chepstow'

 

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* Book Savvy is an e-newsletter of Pneuma Springs Publishing, featuring news and information about all published books and new releases with highlights about the authors behind the books. Look out also for helpful resources e.g. blogs, book reviews and of course, discounts, special offers etc.

Page Central (BookShelf) - Author of the Month

Julius Falconer has been featured as the Author of the Month on the book review website - Page Central (BookShelf)
January 2012

The BookShelf Review

"Julius Falconer has managed to write a character, that is so real that the reader can see him in their minds, Falconer has made his characters so realistic it really feels like you are part of the book and involved in solving the mysteries. All of the inspector Wickfield books are intriguing murder mysteries with a fallible detective that doesn’t solve the crime in an afternoon, each one bringing a different mystery to solve. Think Miss Marple or Moorse and your on the right track, although these books are not as light as the TV programs, they are not like modern day gore. Each book gives the reader a job to do and clues along the way. These are excellent novels that are not in sequence and can be read in any order. Each book set in another area means that the reader doesn’t get bored with so many mysteries in one place and with an realistic-ness that ensures Inspector does not cover the same mysteries."

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Falconer is a mystery writer from Warwickshire, who is a former translator and a retired teacher. He now divides his time between a cottage in central France and the house in Yorkshire which he shares with his daughter and her husband. As well as some booklets and several dozen papers in professional journals, Falconer is the author of the following murder mysteries featuring the diffident and cultured Inspector Wickfield.

Books by Julius Falconer:

1 - The Spider's Banquet

2 - A Death Twice Twice Avenged

3 - The Longdon Murders

4 - The Unexpected Death of Father Wilfred

5 - Mr Carrick is Laid To Rest

6 - The Bones of Murder

7 - A Time to Prey

8 - Troubled Waters

9 - Tempt Not the Stars

10 - Jagger

11 - The Wichenford Court Murder

12 - A Figure in the Mist

The latest addition to the series, The Waif is due to be released in Spring 2012.

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'From Coconuts to Condors' - Candid reviews

A unforgettable trip to Brazil, Peru and Bolivia
Book Reviews

"David and Valerie Astill clearly have a gift for making friends... and were privileged to attend a number of local ceremonies and events such as the candomble in Salvador de Bahia, an important religious ceremony in honour of the gods, which very few tourists have experienced…Valerie Astill’s descriptions of adventures, landscapes, costumes and local customs are detailed and picturesque. Her book also includes many photographs, sadly only in black and white."

Joan Stephens, Leicester Mercury

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"A nice travelogue, honest and lightly written. It’s warts and all, “The entrance and archway dating back to the 16th century had obviously been used more recently as a public convenience. It smelt dreadful…” If you want an insight into travel through Brazil, Peru and Bolivia, this will give you what you’re after."

Paul Bondsfield, Explore Worldwide Ltd

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"As a fellow traveller to the Andes, I have much enjoyed 'From Coconuts to Condors'. I don't actually mind the photos being in black and white, as I can visualise the locations from Valerie's excellent descriptive writing. I have also enjoyed the fact that the book is well written, in the correct tense, and with proper punctuation! Having only been to Peru, I now want to visit both Brazil and Bolivia! Thank you Valerie."

Gill Twissel, author of ‘Rest Upon The Wind'

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"We enjoyed this book because it conveys the reality of travel in these countries and the everyday issues facing the traveller. Too many travel books tend to present a 'tourist board' image of a location which is very different from the practical experience of the average visitor. Problems, hiccups and the unexpected help one to understand and appreciate a country much more. This is why the lack of colour photos doesn't matter. This book is a real journal of an exciting and challenging venture and not just a 'puff' for the South American tourism industry. Well worth reading."

Brian and Margaret Ludlow

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Valerie Astill is the author of 'From Coconuts to Condors' and has also written a second book titled -   'Temples and Tacos' about her journey through Mexico, Guatemala and Belize.

Genre: Travel: Places and peoples
ISBN: 978-1-905809-57-8
Publication Date: 12 April 2009
Edition/Format: 1st/Paperback
Book Size: 210 x 148 mm

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'Me and my Shadow' - More pre-release reviews

An incredible story of a desert runner.

"Throughout a lifetime, everyone has the opportunity to meet truly exceptional people. I have. But only very few times have I met someone who inspires, the way Ray does. He turns concepts around, demonstrating the relativity of the “biological clock” and what can and cannot be achieved by having the right mindset.

Who decides what the right age is to achieve your dreams.

How many times does society impose the things we should or should not do, and what is seen as “reasonable”, and what is expected of us. There is timing for everything. Ray demonstrates that destiny is in your hands, and not in the hands of what society expects of us.

Even today, practicing for sport, or in my work, or family environment, I still think back to the phrases, or moments I was able to share with this incredible man, and friend.

Ray truly is, an inspirational story himself."

Patrick De Jong

Desert runner and Friend

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"There are many words to describe how I feel after reading Me and My Shadow, intrigued, shocked, emotional, inspired, but most of all proud. I am proud that I know Ray, and honoured that he turns up week in week out to my fitness classes. For the advice, his knowledge, and the time he has given me over the past few years.

His enthusiasm to his sport is mind blowing, and whatever Ray puts his mind to, he achieves it with flying colours. From being this cocky ginger haired, Yorkshire lad who just wanted to “have a go at boxing”, to his recent 100km Sahara Desert race, Ray has, and always gives 110%. He is an absolute credit to anyone who knows him.

This book gives a great insight into the “down to earth” Ray (we thought we knew)! Some of the stories are very funny, as well as inspirational. An immensely gripping read, a must buy. Thanks for everything Ray."

Fiona Burkinshaw

Personal Trainer and fitness coach

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Genre: Autobiography: sport

ISBN: 978-1-907728-35-8

Publication Date: Soon to be released

Edition/Format: 1st/Paperback

Book Size: 210 x 148 mm

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An excellent review of 'Read and Soar'

Reviewed by Grahame Howard, author of the popular children's series - 'The Wishing Book'*.
December 2011

"If you are not a reader, you soon will be after reading this very good book from Yomi Akinpelu. Yomi has the knack in being able to inspire and encourage reading of books. In fact, she brings a whole new meaning to why we should read and what we can receive from spending time within pages of well written books, whether fiction or non-fiction. For myself, I like to ‘get lost’ in a good fictional read and perhaps become the hero. I also have received much knowledge from studying good texts in order to gain qualifications. All of this has been reinforced by reading Yomi’s title. This is a book that will bring you insight into why we read and what we can get from this. It will also bring encouragement to dust that book off and make time to read it. It will bring you immense pleasure as you just allow Yomi to show you the way to enjoy reading."

*Grahame Howard is the author of the following four books: The Wishing Book 1, The Wishing Book 2 - Return To Mars, The Wishing Book 3 - Extermination and All Bagged Up.


Yomi Akinpelu is the author of Read & Soar and two other books: A Matter of Life & Death, The Wholesome Truth about Healing.

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Pre-release reviews

'Me and my shadow'

An incredible story of a desert runner.

"It has been a real pleasure to read “Me and My Shadow”. It is an inspirational book where the author has bravely shared so much of himself and his journey. I am intrigued by extraordinary stories of determination, and achievement, whereby adversity is overcome and goals are reached. This book is a perfect example of this. The author takes you on a journey and leaves you wanting more, always the mark of a great book."

Marina Tune

Child and Adolescent Psychotherapist

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"I am so glad that I took the time to read “Me and My Shadow”. Once I began reading I did not want to put the book down, neither did I want it to end.

The author Ray Matthews takes you on a journey throughout his life, and as a reader, you feel that you are part of that journey.

I felt like I was the “shadow” referred to in the title. The descriptive writing and storytelling painted such an imaginative picture that I felt I was right there besides him, like I was Ray’s shadow. I felt the physical and emotional pain Ray had experienced, and I felt the overwhelming joy of knowing that he had just taken part in something truly amazing.

The book is such an inspirational read and anyone who is seeking a dream and wanting to take on the impossible should read this book. I would like to thank Ray for sharing his journey and letting me be part of it through his beautiful writing."

Helen Woodburn-Moran

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"Ray writes with a passion that reflects his fervor for life. His heartfelt desire is to be all he can be, to collect and soak in every experience, and to grow as a human being and as an athlete. As you read you would almost feel you are there with Ray as a young lad, as he takes steps that help him discover his most important mentors who lead him to make the hardest decisions that made the biggest differences in his life as an athlete, family man, and business man. If you have the burning desire to live your life on your terms, then Ray’s book is a must read. Ray is living the ideal life; to be content with what he has achieved, and be ambitious for more. Don’t wait too long to write your next book Ray."

David Greenfield

Gym buddy and Life Coach

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