My Janitor's Name is Ben

Have you ever noticed that no matter how much of a mess you make at school, there is always someone special that cleans it up?

From glue to glitter, from lunch tables to trash cans, every school has a special person that makes sure your school is as clean as possible.

Have you ever noticed what they look like? Have you ever noticed what they do for school every day? Have you ever wondered why those carefully placed crumbs disappear overnight?

My Journey Through Hip-Hop

In My Journey Through Hip-Hop, experience the pulsating beats and soulful rhythms of the genre’s history through the lens of a Chicago native. This debut collection chronicles hip-hop’s evolution, from the groundbreaking beats of DJ Kool Herc to the lyrical genius of J. Cole. Seamlessly weaving album titles, song references, and lyrical snippets, this anthology paints a rich tapestry that both celebrates and demystifies one of music’s most dynamic genres. More than just a retelling, each poem dances to the rhythm of hip-hop, blurring the lines between lyrical cadence and poetic structure. Dive in for an immersive experience that educates and resonates, but be warned — this journey comes with its own parental advisory.

My Mistakes and You

She grew up with a desire for her words to be read, unconcerned about whether others could relate to what she had to say.

She yearned to pour out her soul, even if it meant her cup would overflow.

She sought acceptance despite her flaws and mistakes.

Her words were written in the hope that others would understand the reasons behind her tears, which gave birth to rivers and lakes.

This book is for those who do understand.

Here is My Mistake and You.

My Observations II

These observations were made during the author’s twenty-five years with Recovery Acres Society, a special care facility for people with drug and alcohol problems. This includes fifteen years as a board member – including six years as board chair – and ten years as executive director. During that time, the facility was able to help hundreds of men, women, and families recover from addictions. It was a real privilege for the author to be a part of the facility and a privilege for him to share these observations with you.

My Pink

Have you ever had something special that you really just couldn’t go without?

Share in the adventures of a little girl and her security blanket and the fear of letting go of things we hold dear.

It’s not always easy, but it’s an important part of growing up!

My Two Ancestors

Pauline stands at the crossroads of two remarkable lineages, tracing her heritage back to the rich soils of Africa and the vast landscapes of North America. Her story is a vibrant tapestry woven from the histories of Native and African Americans, celebrating their unique confluence and shared legacy in America. We are the sum total of our ancestors, their experiences shaping our interests, beliefs, and identities.

With a deep appreciation for her cultural roots, both the joys and the struggles, Pauline embraces the full spectrum of her heritage. These dual lineages, with their distinct and interconnected histories, have taught her invaluable lessons about resilience, identity, and the complexity of the human spirit. In Pauline’s journey of self-discovery, she mirrors the multicultural essence of America itself: diverse, complex, and enriched by the convergence of different worlds.

Mystery Bread of the Hollows

Discover the comforting allure of salt rising bread, a culinary gem from the heart of Appalachia, born from the ingenuity of pioneer women. This tale, set in 1880, unravels the mystique of this unique bread through the eyes of a young girl living on the fringe of a hollow. It’s a journey into the rugged yet resilient spirit of a community amidst the ancient, weather-worn peaks. The narrative, steeped in rich folklore, culminates in a cherished recipe shared on the back page, inviting you to partake in a slice of Appalachian heritage, and savor the simplicity and mystery kneaded within salt rising bread.

Nama

When we write the story of one person, we tell the story of all people who have lived through all times, across the entire geography of the universe. We borrow from the history of life and its footprints, emerging from the deep past and leading into the ever-receding future. One life is a mirror for all, in a very important sense, though not in every sense. In Nama, an ancient Native American woman recounts the mystery of life, weaving the tapestry of life – of birth and death, of brave battles to be won, dreaming of love and justice, of creating a heaven on earth. She sings of grief over loss of love, of greed and rivalry that tear us apart, pushing us to harm, and even to kill. Yet she is also firm in her trust in the affirmation of life. Battles are never lost, lives are never given in vain. She preserves her faith in the redeeming power of grace and self-expansion and is willing to wait patiently for future generations to pick up the cross and find the path of emancipation for imprisoned humankind. Should we join her march?

Naming Our Puppy

Naming your puppy is fun, especially when you can choose a name that has a special meaning. Puppies become a member of your family and will bring you great joy and the gift of unconditional love.

Love your puppy and you will be loved right back.

Nancy and the Christmas Story

Nancy experienced culture shock when she moved to a new city. The belief that Santa Claus existed confused her. And the reason people thought they celebrated Christmas was entirely different from what she knew.

However, her discovery of the difference between Santa Claus and Jesus Christ saved the world. 

Nathaniel Clark Smith

If you are interested in learning about a pioneer African American music educator in the United States, then you want to read the story of Nathaniel Clark Smith. Smith was a prolific and charismatic music educator, musician, and composer who lived during the early years of music education history in the United States. His formal training in music was on a military base in Ft. Leavenworth, KS. Extended studies were from Guild Hall in London, England. A college graduate with B.M.A. and M.M degrees, Smith taught music in educational institutions and industries; was a world traveller who performed with the Ernest Hogan Minstrel Troupe; introduced the saxophone to African Americans; composed and published spirituals, marches, operatic songs, a suite, and an unfinished symphony; and hosted a radio broadcast show which was aired all over the Mid-West. He organized bands and out of that, orchestras, choirs, glee clubs and numerous combinations of the voice and instruments were developed. Smith captured the melodies of the countries that he visited in his music compositions.

During his illustrious career, Smith worked with Frederick Douglas, Paul Lawrence Dunbar, Booker T. Washington, Nat King Cole, Lionel Hampton, Milton Hinton, John Phillip Sousa, a young Charlie Parker, and others. His students from the Lincoln High School Band became the nucleus of the big band format of the Mid-West. His Pullman Porter musicians were able to perform at a moment’s notice.

Married with one daughter and the son of an African Sergeant Trumpeter and Indian mother, The Story of Nathaniel Clark Smith is a colourful reading of the times during abolition to the mid depression years in the United States. It is the story of an African-American who survived the challenges of the time to obtain a successful music career, and who helped people to better their lives through music in the Mid-Western and Southern African-American communities of the United States.

Nature Nibbles: Alphabet Crunch A-Z

Nature Nibbles: Alphabet Crunch A-Z celebrates the twist and turn of letters in rhyme.

Whimsical and wacky, nature bites their way to unexpected choices.

Children will giggle their way in fun while learning the alphabet.

This charming little book celebrates unleashed imagination for the early learner and their parents.

Nibble away!