September 28, 2024 11 AM
Author: Richard Kirk
Book Title: Timmy’s Wish – Lessons From Heaven – A Young Boy’s Powerful Declaration of His Faith and Purpose in Life
LIVE IN PERSON at the Belmar Public Library
As a response to a school writing prompt, Timmy professes his desire to become a beacon of faith for those who will follow him. Several months after writing his “Wish” Timmy is diagnosed with a brain tumor, sending him on a journey through the ravages of pediatric cancer surgery and treatment while he continues to live out his life’s purpose. Timmy’s Wish is told through the lens of his older brother, who chronicles Timmy’s amazing life and their relationship with each other and their family as they battle this disease together. The family must now deal with the realities of life, death, grief, and resilience while also battling challenges to their faith, as prayer has failed to bring them the answers they seek.
In recognition of the many families and individuals who are faced with similar challenges, the book offers resources for family care services and options for handling the grief that inevitably comes with this traumatic experience. Timmy’s Wish is the moving true story of how one life and one wish inspire Timmy’s brother, his family, and a community—and continue to do so through his lessons from heaven.
ABOUT THE AUTHOR
Richard Kirk is a retired educator. After serving nearly forty years as a teacher, coach, and school administra-tor. he has returned to the classroom and currently serves as an Adiunct Professor of Education at Brook-dale Community College in New Jersey. He also coaches high school basketball. Richard is married to Cynthia, herself a first-grade teacher. They have two daughters, Sarah and Shannon. They live in Spring Lake Heights, New Jersey.
September 14, 2024 11 AM
Author: John O’Rourke
Book Title: LIVE TILL I DIE – An August Nolan Novel
LIVE IN PERSON at the Belmar Public Library
Live Till I Die introduces August Nolan, a tough yet soft-spoken New Jersey ex-state cop turned PI who when not working a case is often found nursing a Jack Daniels at Amanda’s, his favorite Hoboken watering hole. Nolan’s latest assignment, which he’s juggling with a couple of cheating spouse cases, is to investigate Hoboken’s charismatic young mayor, suspected of graft in a lucrative construction contract scheme.
As Nolan digs in, he connects the mayor to a major smuggling operation and a suspicious car accident the night an attractive campaign worker went missing. The PI’s persistence quickly draws the ire of a crime syndicate as well as from some in law enforcement, and trouble follows. A live-and-let-live attitude won’t stop Nolan from unleashing his formidable fighting skills when a young protégé and his family become targets.
Live Till I Die features a strong cast of characters, colorful Hoboken background, romantic tension and action scenes that keep the pages turning. Investigative technique and bartender’s wisdom are freely dispensed. This is detective fiction in the vein of Robert B. Parker’s “Jesse Stone” and “Spenser” novels, but with an arguably harder edge. The sequel, I LIVE YOU DIE is set for release in the fall of 2024.
ABOUT THE AUTHOR
John E. O’Rourke is the author of “The Jersey Shore Thrill Killer: Richard Biegenwald” and “Mystery, Millions & Murder: The Tragic Kidnapping and Killing of Exxon’s Sidney Reso.” He brings a breadth of experience to his writing and research as a retired NJ Trooper, security consultant, and private investigator. His expertise in security is underscored by his contributions to several esteemed books on security published by Butterworth-Heinemann. His latest book, LIVE TILL I DIE, is his first fiction novel and is published by Pacific Sinclair and will be released on August 28, 2024. Memberships: Mystery Writers of America, Sisters in Crime, ASIS International and the New Jersey Honor Legion.
December 7, 2024 11 AM
Author: Dylan Finn
Book Title: GROWTH – Flipping the Script On My Life Changing Moment
LIVE IN PERSON at the Belmar Public Library
After fourteen days, Dylan Finn awoke from a coma. Two weeks earlier, he was a typical college kid having fun, enjoying school, and hanging out with friends. But, on this particular day, Dylan had suffered a traumatic brain injury from a fall.
With only a ten percent survival rate, Dylan found the strength and courage to flip the perspective of what happened to him and to use what he had learned to help others.
Growth is the real story of what happened and Dylan’s journey of learning, lessons, and light found at the end of the tunnel.
ABOUT THE AUTHOR
Dylan Finn is an author and an advocate for those recovering from traumatic injuries that may change the trajectory of their life.
Dylan grew up in Sea Girt, NJ spending a lot of his time playing basketball, baseball and being socially active with friends and family. In 2020, Dylan suffered a traumatic injury that completely changed his life’s direction.
Dylan views his journey as a pathway for “Growth”, sharing the story that led him to where he is today.
July 13, 2024 11 AM
Author: Natalie Friscia Pancetti
Book Title: This Too… – Life-isms to savor the sweetness of life and calm you through the storms
LIVE IN PERSON at the Belmar Public Library
Based on the popular phrase, “this too shall pass”, this book will give you a new perspective on that quote and on life in general. Often times when people hear this phrase they connect it to suffering, a rough patch, or difficult times. But it also pertains to the sweet spots, blessings, priceless moments, and the small achievements, reminding us to cherish and savor them.
Filled with inspirational words to embrace and act on, Natalie Friscia Pancetti penned life-isms that can serve as a reference for reflection or wisdom for guidance to help you find peace throughout any season of life.
This Too… is a resource for people of all ages. The topics range from family, feelings, lessons learned, signs & synchronicities, friendships, hopes & dreams, and faith & blessings. This Too… equips readers with lessons learned that can be applied to all aspects of their lives.
ABOUT THE AUTHOR
Natalie Friscia Pancetti has studied human behavior and habits for almost twenty years as a teacher (inside the classroom and out), tutor, and real estate agent. She holds a Bachelor of Science in Marketing with a minor in Psychology and a Master’s in Education.
Her passions are her family, her dog, walking, writing, and living with a faith-filled positive attitude. Her dad always taught her that things will pass by quickly and not to sweat the small stuff. Natalie learned from him, and from her own life experiences, that difficult times will pass as well as the good times. Sweet spots in life need to be cherished, because they will also pass quickly.
June 15, 2024 11 AM
Author: Christopher Bogart
Book Title: SUNFLOWERS – Poetry of the War in Ukraine
LIVE IN PERSON at the Belmar Public Library
In the words of the author, Christopher Bogart:
This book of poetry attempts to depict, both visibly and verbally, the major elements that war brings to a country: not only the violence, destruction, and death that the invader inflicts, but the bravery and courage and endurance of the invaded.
This book of poetry is about the war in Ukraine.
After listening to hundreds of interviews with Ukrainians who have suffered destruction, displacement, and loss, as well as captured Russian soldiers, many of whom weren’t even aware of why they were sent to Ukraine, I decided to focus this book on the victims of this war – victims on both sides. This book is about the over 8 million Ukrainians who were forced to evacuate their homes and their country.
It is about the Ukrainian cities that have been leveled by Russian missiles. It is about the Ukrainian dead. And yes, it is also about the Russian soldiers, most of whom were lied to, then forced to make choices – and to live, and die, with the consequences of those choices.
It is about a war to promote a lie. It is about a war that is really the war of only one man. It is Vladimir Putin’s War.
This book of poetry is both about the victims of this war and about its heroes. Russian as well as Ukrainian. And about a brave people, the Invincibles, who are fighting to defend their homeland so that they will be able to determine their own fate. It is to them that I dedicate this book.
ABOUT THE AUTHOR
Christopher Bogart is a retired educator and a working poet and writer with a BS in Liberal Arts from St. Peter’s College/University, and an MA and MFA in Creative Writing from Monmouth University.
He is the founder and member of Jersey Shore Poets, and organizes an annual public poetry reading for National Poetry Month, “Poets Live!” which has been presented for nine years at The Eatontown Library, Monmouth County Library/Eastern Branch and online.
His poetry has been published in Voices Rising from the Grove, Spindrift, WestWard Quarterly, Saggio Poetry Journal, The Monmouth Review (2013 and 2014, 2020, 2022), Mind Murals (2013), Whirlwind Review (Fall 2014), The Howl of Sorrow, A Collection of Poetry Inspired by Hurricane Sandy, This Broken Shore (Summer 2015. 2018, 2023), Jersey Shore Poets/First Edition, The Poeming Pidgeon 2022, Poetry for Ukraine 2022, The Rutherford Red Wheelbarrow 15, New Jersey Bards Poetry Review 2023, Rhyme and PUNishment Anthology as well as various online sites.
He is presently co-authoring an epistolary book of poetry with poet and literary entrepreneur James C. Ellerbe about race in America titled The Next Conversation, writing short stories, translating the poetry of Federico Garcia Lorca, Sergei Esenin, and Arthur Rimbaud into English, as well as working on his first novel, tentatively titled The Beast about the plight of two Central American teenage migrants who flee poverty and crime in search of a better life in America.
How this book supports Ukrainian Soldiers in the field:
Соняшники/Sunflowers is an illustrated book of poetry about the Russian invasion of Ukraine. It is the creation of Christopher Bogart, an American poet and writer of the poems in this book. The artwork, including the cover design, is the work of Lithuanian artist, Beata Kurkul.
This book is published by Penguin Book Writers in paperback and eBook, and is available in outlets all over the world. The poetry in this book is dramatic and unique, much like the artwork that illustrates many of the poems in the book. It was produced to deliver information about this war to people who might not normally pick up a book of poetry to read. It was also produced as a fundraiser for a charity that would benefit the brave people of Ukraine. However, because, historically, poetry books do not sell as many copies as, say, a popular novel, Bogart chose White Stork, a charity started by American vets to provide life-saving first aid for wounded Ukrainian soldiers until medics arrive to transport them to the nearest medical facility. In the words of White Stork, Individual first aid kits (IFAKs) contain simple medical tools to stop traumatic bleeding and restore the airway. The kits are designed for rapid one-hand deployment in case of traumatic injury. With one exception, all the materials in this kit are manufactured by Ukrainian industry and support the Ukrainian economy.
Each of these IFAK kits can be paid for by the proceeds of the sale of five copies of Соняшники/Sunflowers – or each five books sold makes the readers more knowledgeable about Ukraine’s struggle to survive as an independent state, as well as puts one IFAK on the back of a Ukrainian soldier – to save one Ukrainian life.
In the words of William McNulty, Head of Mission, White Stork:
The men and women fighting in Ukraine are not professional soldiers. They are civilians who have been thrust into this war of national survival.
As veterans, we’ve seen the horrors of war and know how to deliver aid directly to the front. No middlemen, no BS. Your humanitarian aid to Ukraine means their survival.
June 29, 2024 11 AM
Author: Lucille Maddalena
Book Title: Moving On By!
LIVE IN PERSON at the Belmar Public Library
You already have what you need to lead: now learn to tap into your experience, your history, your future, your story. There is an element of dog sledding that mimics life’s antics. You get on the trail with an idea of where you are going, you experience the joys of connecting with your team, you run into some obstacles, take risks, possibly a wrong turn, and exert incredible effort to reach your goal.
This book explores career and life transitions by uncovering the often-elusive trail markers that point the way toward your desired destination. A trail marker is a confluence of your experiences, ideas, motivations, values, and desires flowing together to form your personal trail. If you’re someone who inquires and refuses to settle for the status quo, actively seeking improvement in your life, then this book is for you.
Today’s leaders will find this book a valuable book to guide the development of high-potential employees. Use it as a subject to open critical discussions to lay a path for their success. It will guide you to engage them as a mentor, enabling them to reach their full potential, to find their trail markers as a contributing member of your organization.
In the same way, coaches, trainers, and HR professionals will find the Insight and Tasks sections exploring the topics presented in the Tales and Case Studies make this book a valuable tool to conduct workshops, interventions, and team building sessions. Support your leaders to find their trails to success.
ABOUT THE AUTHOR
Dr. Lucille Maddalena, Ed.D., is an experienced Executive Coach with a background in human and organization dynamics. She began her career as a radio newscaster before transitioning into the field of labor education.
Through her company, MTMCoach, she offers personalized coaching programs for high-potential mid-level employees, helping them navigate organizational cultured interpersonal dynamics. With over 40 years of experience, Dr. Maddalena is dedicated to fostering robust networks and facilitating self-discovery for leaders in transition. She also works with clients to create to create a coaching culture within their organizations, aligning leadership development with the overall corporate vision and mission.
Learn more about Lucille on her website: www.MTMCoach.com
August 10, 2024 11 AM
Author: David Hamilton Golland
Book Title: Livin’ Just to Find Emotion – JOURNEY and the Story of American Rock
LIVE IN PERSON at the Belmar Public Library
Relive Journey’s greatest songs and moments with this fiftieth anniversary tribute.
Since exploding on the scene in the late 1970’s, l Journey has inspired generations of fans with hit after hit. But hidden under this rock n’ roll glory is a complex story of ambition, larger than life personalities, and clashes. David Hamilton Golland unearths the band’s true and complete biography, based on over a decade of interviews and thousands of sources.
When Steve Perry joined jazz-blues progressive rock band Journey in 1977, they saw a rise to the top, and their 1981 album Escape hit #1. But Perry’s quest for control led to Journey’s demise. They lost their record contract and much of their audience. After the unlikely comeback of “Don’t Stop Believin'” in movies, television and sports stadiums, a new generation discovered Journey.
A professional historian, Golland dispels rehashed myths and also shows how race in popular music contributed to their breakout success. As the economy collapsed and as people abandoned the spirit of Woodstockin the late 70s, Journey used the rhythm of soul and Motown to inspire hope in primarily white teenagers’ lives. Decades later, they are again a fixture in major stadiums.
David Hamilton Golland is dean of Humanities and Social Sciences at Monmouth University and founder of The Journey Zone (journey-zone.com), the leading source for all things Journey for over two decades. He lives in Middletown, NJ.
Learn more about David at davidgolland.com.
May 4, 2024 11 AM
Author: Herman Lentz
Book Title: Jewmorous
LIVE IN PERSON at the Belmar Public Library
Like Walter Mitty, Herman Lentz has delusions of grandeur and a rich imagination, but he uses his sarcasm and snark as coping skills to deal with the ironic and moronic. Jewmorous is a humorous collection of essays about embarrassing events no matter how small, all viewed through a self-deprecating lens.
Much to his wife’s chagrin, the essays cover universal themes consisting of, clashing cultures and traditions, marriage, nude beaches, job interviews, drug use, prostate exams, raising kids, and more stories about marriage, to name a few.
ABOUT THE AUTHOR
Herman Lentz is a retired Chief Compliance Officer, who no longer shackled by the constraints imposed by his position is finally able to publish his first book without fear that his musings will cost him his career.
Always a story teller, he has put together a collection of essays about the adventures and misadventures in his life. A Long Island Jew with delusions of grandeur, he lives in New Jersey not by choice, but by marriage, as his first generation Greek Orthodox wife wanted to be close to her extremely extended family. He prides himself on his great head of hair and self-proclaimed rapier like wit.
When not working on his next essay, he can be seen cursing on the golf course, wishing his grandkids would take more naps when he babysits, avoiding any and all acts of physical labor, and looking for excuses to not go shopping with his wife. His goal is not to be recognized posthumously.
Learn more about his book at www.Jewmorous.com.
April 20, 2024 10 AM
Author: Maureen Spataro
Book Title: Press Pause
LIVE IN PERSON at the Belmar Public Library
Nothing can heal in the dark
Maureen Spataro’s smile was the one to light up every room. She was the parent running into the classroom with cupcakes, the friend who you could lean on, the “Team Mom” for her daughter’s softball team. What no one knew, was behind that smile was a past that she stuffed down deep. Until one day, when Maureen wakes up completely numb, feeling nothing at all.
The silly, quick witted, ewasygoing woman with the gut-busting laugh was fine. And, there was a sickening, and very real possibility that neither Maureen, nor anyone she loved, would ever see her again.
Press Pause shares the story of Maureen’s breakdown, and the treatment that would have her revisit the traumas from her past – traumas that she thought she had already dealt with. Finally fully unpacking the sedual and physical abuse she endured, the secrets she carried for decades turned into a catalyst for not only healing herself, but changing the whole trajectory of her family’s future.
ABOUT THE AUTHOR
Maureen Spataro is the author of the emotionally stirring and thought provoking memoir, Press Pause – The Breakdown That Rebuilt My Life & Changed a Family Legacy. She is a popular and highly sought after domestic and sexual violence impact speaker, and hostess of the Podcast Unsilenced, Unashamed, Unstoppable. Her current project – The Ageless Collective – is focused on the value and contributions of 50+ women, and bringing them together to discuss the issues faced by women over the age of fifty. Her goal is to create a community that celebrates what it means to be ageless.
Maureen is also the founder o0f the 501(c)(3)organization Because She Is, which offers free support services and programs to survivors of domestic violence, sexual assault and other abuse. A survivor herself who endured abuse starting at the age of six and through her adult years, she has written Press Pause to tell the true story of what it took to face and overcome her past trauma in order to rewrite her family legacy and to create a life she loves.
March 27, 2024 6 PM
Author: Zac Levy
Book Title: Project Unhoused
LIVE IN PERSON at the Belmar Public Library
How do people become homeless?
At age sixteen, Zac Levy set out to answer this question. Follow Levy’s year-long journey as he bounces between homeless shelters and soup kitchens exploring the struggles of the homeless and finding ways to assist the less fortunate.
Through his interviews with unhoused individuals, Levy illuminates the root causes of homelessness and explains the dangers behind many popular misconceptions about homelessness.
About the Author
Zac Levy is a student at High Technology High School in Lincroft, NJ. In addition to his humanitarian work, he is a graduate of the Rutgers University Quarknet Program in particle physics and quantum computing. Levy is working with Dr. Matthew Rosenberg in the lab of Professor David Tank at Princeton University, conducting research in the field of neuroscience and biophysics. In line with his beliefs as an Orthodox Jew, he dedicates time to learning Judaic Studies with his Rabbis every morning and night. In his free time, Levy enjoys playing tennis and chess.
100% of the profits form his book will be given directly to America’s homeless population.
Learn more about his work at www.projectunhoused.com.
March 16, 2024 11 AM
Author: Mike Farraggher
This is Your Brain on Shamrocks
A Devilish Pint
50 Shades of Green
LIVE IN PERSON at the Belmar Public Library
Author and writing coach Mike Farragher will read from his funny and sweet memoirs on growing up Irish, Catholic and guilty in the swamps of Jersey and will offer tips on writing YOUR story in 2024!
He will share his memoirs from some of his books, such as This is Your Brain on Shamrocks, The Devilish Pint and 50 Shades of Green.
ABOUT THE AUTHOR
From his website:
Mike Farragher is the author of 6 books, including “The Last Temptation of Mary,” his latest.
He has inspired countless other authors to commit their stories to the pages through a series of virtual workshops. He has led these classes for Monmouth University and Project Write Now.
“When I first started writing books, I used to get a huge charge out of seeing my name splashed on the cover,” Farragher says. “That’s still a thrill, but I now get an even bigger charge seeing my name on page 2 of someone else’s book, when they acknowledge the small part I might have played in helping them get their story out. Publishing my work in various forms has been the adventure of my life, and I love inspiring others to take the plunge!”
Mike’s stories have leapt off the page and onto the stage and screen. He had 2 plays produced off-Broadway at The Manhattan Repertory Theater. You can view those performances on our PLAYS page: https://thisisyourbrainonshamrocks.com/the-plays/
He optioned his “This Is Your Brain on Shamrocks” books for the screen; a pilot episode of a comedy series was produced and won numerous awards at film festivals on either side of the Atlantic, including the prestigious Dublin International Comedy Film Festival.
Learn more about Mike at his website: www.MikeFarragher.com
January 20, 2024 10 AM
RESCHEDULED TO Saturday February 10, 2024 10 AM
Author: Jennifer Clearwaters & Cynthia O’Connell
The Elevation Principles
LIVE IN PERSON at the Belmar Public Library
Is there a change you want to make in your life?
If so, what is holding you back?
What is one small step that you can take to become the best version of yourself?
The Elevation Principles gives you the guidance, resources, and support to break free of old habits, hold yourself accountable, and create new pathways for change. This book offers ways to climb the ladder of possibilities through clearly defined principles that are simplified to easily fit into your daily schedule.
Jennifer Clearwaters and Cynthia O’Connell– lifetime educators, learners and athletes- have done the research on behavioral change and mind-body balance. They can help you to ditch the excuses and commit to your journey to health and wellness.
ABOUT THE AUTHORS
Jennifer Clearwaters is a Licensed Professional Counselor, yoga instructor, Reiki Master and Integrative Nutrition Health Coach. She formerly worked in public education for over 20 years as a teacher, School Counselor, Director of School Counseling Services, and college professor. Jennifer owns a private practice for behavioral health and wellness in New Jersey.
Website: www.mindsetnj.com
Cynthia O’Connell is a retired specialist professor from the Educational Counseling Department at Monmouth University. Previously she worked in public education as a teacher, coach, school counselor and Director of Counseling Services K-12. She has trained students, educators and other professionals in mindfulness and meditation.
Website: www.Mindfulnessconnection.com
November 18, 2023 10 AM
Author: M. B. Paradise
Beach Santa
LIVE IN PERSON at the Belmar Public Library
Celebrate the power of generosity and teamwork with this heartwarming and silly tale that describes what Santa does the day AFTER Christmas! He needs a vacation and wants to catch some waves and a fish! But, as he finally dips his toes in the water, he catches wind of children in need and jumps into action! Ultimately, he catches something…but it may not be what you think!
ABOUT THE AUTHOR
M.B. Paradise is a Jersey Shore mom and energetic speaker who is committed to sharing the Beach Santa story and supporting spinal cord injury research & initiatives. A percentage of the book sales (25%) will be donated to Team LeGrand, a fund-raising arm of the Christopher and Dana Reeve Foundation.
M.B. Paradise has always been a fan of stories, Santa, and the beach… so combining the three made perfect sense. She has a degree from Rutgers University and a Master’s in Education from the University of Virginia. She loves treehouses, comfy pajamas, chocolate and all kinds of stories. Beach Santa is her first children’s book.
Random Author Fun Fact: The author has had many jobs. Once of them was dressing in a full-body Post-It costume and walking around Times Square in Feb. of 1999 to promote the movie “Office Space.”
Learn more about M.B. Paradise at https://mbparadiseauthor.com
October 11, 2023 6 PM
Author: Mick Bennett
Take the Lively Air
LIVE IN PERSON at the Belmar Public Library
In Take the Lively Air, a minor traffic collision escalates into a confrontation between two families haunted by their pasts and apprehensive of their futures.
Rage and regret butt heads against the background of America’s toxic cultural climate.
But saner voices discover that human frailties are best viewed through the microscope of compassion, and our common humanity must be acknowledged to make way for our futures.
ABOUT THE AUTHOR, BY THE AUTHOR
My home town is Belmar, NJ. I was born December 14, 1952. My father and mother moved from 13th Ave to 22 Inlet Terrace soon afterward. Dad grew up on Inlet Terrace. He was Captain of the Asbury Park H.S. state championship football team of 1931. Mom also attended A.P.H.S. We belonged to the First Presbyterian Church on 9th Ave.
Locally, I attended Belmar Elementary and Manasquan H.S. Always a late bloomer, I was sent to Blair Academy for what was euphemistically called a post-graduate or PG year. At Blair I fell in love with writing. From there I attended Gettysburg College, and after graduation in 1975, found a job at a high school 15 miles from Gettysburg where I taught English and coached basketball.
After 33 years, one master’s degree, many great memories, and thousands of lousy essays, I retired from teaching in 2010. My wife Kathleen and I have been married for 39 years. We have two grown children, Nathan and Erin. if there is one thing I learned from experience concerning writing, it was neatly summarized by my favorite writer Raymond Carver:
“When it comes to writing fiction or poetry, it really comes down to this: indifference to everything except what you’re doing.”
Learn more about Mick and his writings at: http://mickbennettnj.com/
October 3, 2023 6 PM
Author: Jo Anna Kloster
Lily Unleashed
LIVE IN PERSON at the Belmar Public Library
Because it’s never too late to do the right thing…
Dogs sold from puppy mills carry behavioral baggage just like children reared in orphanages and in foster care as Lily quickly learns in this middle-grade novel.
When sixth-grader Lily Grabowski takes in her teacher’s puppy-mill rescue dog, without parental permission, it sets off a chain of events that challenges her dog smarts, self-esteem, and ideas about what it means to be a true friend.
As Lily’s heart opens to this tiny dog, complications mount. Cagney howls all day because of separation anxiety. Lily’s nemesis neighbor threatens to call the dog warden about a noise nuisance. BFF drama threatens Lily’s class project on why underdogs matter. Lily’s over-protective mom issues a thirty-day ultimatum, and Lily’s guilty conscience grows while a broken promise looms.
In the end, Lily must choose. Either surrender Cagney because his needs are bigger than her ability to help him or stand up for what she believes will save him.
ABOUT THE AUTHOR
Jo Anna Dressler Kloster is a former elementary teacher, an author, and a Humane Policy Volunteer Leader with the Humane Society of the United States. She works to better the lives of animals.
Her middle-grade novel, LILY UNLEASHED, is a coming-of-age story. It focuses on an underdog whose love inspires one girl to speak up for this puppy mill rescue and all the other dogs locked in puppy mill cages. Themes of friendship, bullying, and loss are explored.
Ms. Kloster attends animal welfare events and mans an educational table with her book to inform others on how to end the puppy-mill-to-pet-store-pipeline.
Her message: Adopt don’t shop for puppies at pet stores. Wonderful dogs await you at your local shelters, rescues, and with reputable breeders.
More info can be found below about her work:
Website: http://www.emptycagespress.com
September 26, 2023. 6:30 PM
Author: Merry Brennan
MYSTERY SCARS – A Story of Love and Healing
LIVE IN PERSON at the Belmar Public Library
When Hurt Happens, Can We Forgive Others — and Ourselves?
Pink Uggs… blue Top-Siders… old tan Timberlands…
Talented good girl Jewel Jacobs surveys the shoes on the other kids who tried to kill themselves, all slumped in the support group circle that Red Nikes mockingly calls “the Unalive Failures Club.” How did they each get here? How did she get here? A week ago, her biggest worry was making it into the legendary Teen Arts Show. Then she woke in a hospital bed with pain shooting up her arms and absolutely no memory of harming herself.
In a journey far deeper than the scars on her wrists, Jewel must weave together repressed secrets bubbling up in confusing pieces. As she struggles to understand her own shocking behavior, she learns friendship, love, and quirky humor can bring you back from the darkest places.
Mystery Scars is a timely YA novel about high school freshman Jewel Jacobs, whose repressed childhood trauma bubbles up after she wakes in a hospital with no memory of trying to harm herself. A caring therapist, along with friends old and new, help her puzzle together family secrets and accept her own shocking behavior.
About the Author:
As a kid, Merry Brennan dreamed of a grown-up life writing books
and making art. She got sidetracked for years, as a journalist, activist,
columnist, naturalist, communications consultant, adjunct professor, and
elected official. Now, she weaves all those experiences into her creative
roots.
Like so many people these days – no matter our age, background, or
beliefs – she’s searching for inner peace, outer connection, and just plain
happiness. Her writing, art, workshops and ceremonies, although
seemingly diverse, all grow from this same theme. Through story and
images, she invites others to savor nature, embrace inner peace, and
compassionately care for this gem we all call home.
Her latest book, Mystery Scars, is a contemporary young adult novel
offering hope and healing for those affected by today’s epidemic of teen
anxiety, depression, and suicide. Her info-packed travel memoir, Eye Rolls
and Awe: A National Park Road Trip with Teens, offers a front-row seat to
the treasures of family and nature, and her middle-grade historical novel,
Peace Pilgrim: Walking Her Talk Against Hate, introduces readers to the
remarkable woman who walked across the U.S. for 28 years with only the
clothes on her back to spread a message of peace.
Merry’s photographic and digital creations (www.EarthwaysArt.com)
have been featured in many shows, shops, and publications. She’s also
created a growing collection of “Photoplay” – a flavoring of words on
images.
The long-time Jersey Shore resident is always up for a good hike, sail or
paddle; never turns down time with family; and looks forward to full moon
meditations. She and her musician husband, Tom, have three terrific
children, Ciarán, Aislínn and Seán.
Learn more about Merry and her books at www.MerryBrennan.com.
May 2, 2023 12:30 PM
Author: The Venerable Bhante Sujatha
Empty, Empty, Happy, Happy
Sitting on the Toolbox – Buddha’s Wisdom to a Joyful Life
LIVE IN PERSON at the Belmar Public Library
A Fundraiser for Bhante Sujatha’s Annual Mother’s Program in Sri Lanka
In this workshop Bhante Sujatha will introduce the practice of loving-kindness and guide a brief meditation through this simple to learn, but difficult to master, technique.
When we practice loving-kindness we are giving a unique and powerful gift to the whole world… It’s through our self-love that we love the whole world. When practiced with sincerity and commitment, this mediation can alter your brain and change the way you see the whole world. When you change the way you see the world, the world changes.
Bhante Sujatha, a 40+ year Buddhist Monk, is singularly focused on adding more love in the world. Bhante teaches loving-kindness meditation to people around the globe for all those seeking the art of happiness and contentment. His approach to meditation is deep and simple, bringing core Buddhist teachings to everyone in a way that is practical and easy to understand.
A joyful, radiant, funny, and wildly energetic monk, Bhante will help you obtain peace that can only be found in deep silence. Bhante believes his purpose is not only to teach meditation, but also, “teaching people how to be happy.” For more information visit Bhante’ s website www.bhantesujatha.org
Bhante Sujatha will also offer his books and other items for sale to raise funds for his Pregnant Mothers Program in Sri Lanka.
He will also discuss his books: Empty Empty Happy Happy and Sit-in god the Toolbox – Buddha’s Wisdom to a Joyful Life.
November 19, 2022 10 am
Author: Christopher Bogart
This Conversation
LIVE IN PERSON at the Belmar Public Library
In his new book of poetry, Christopher Bogart follows the lead of Emanuel Acho (author of Uncomfortable Conversations with a Black Man) who encourages white people to be courageous, informed, and empathetic to the treatment of their Black brothers and sisters. Bogart is stepping up “to do his part.”
Employing the paradigm of an accidental meeting between two white strangers at a local bar and the conversation that ensues, he encourages the reader to explore the problem of systemic racism and to start this conversation with others.
Christopher Bogart is a working poet and writer who has earned an MA in Creative Writing, and is presently finishing an MFA, at Monmouth University. His poetry has been published in Voices Rising from the Grove, Spindrift, WestWard Quarterly, This Broken Shore, Jersey Shore Poets/ First Edition, as well as various online sites.
In 2015, he was chosen as First Runner Up for Monmouth University’s inaugural The Joyce Carol Oates Award for Excellence in Fiction, Poetry, and Creative Non-Fiction. In 2017, he was chosen as one of two finalists for The Brian Turner Literary Prize for Fiction. His chapbook 14: Antología del Sonoran, was awarded The Poetry Box Chapbook Prize (3rd Place) and published in 2018 . Other poetry books include Breakpoint and The Eater of Dreams.
Join us as Christopher Bogart presents & reads from his book, This Conversation on Saturday, November 19, 2022 at 10 am.
He will be in person LIVE at the Library, and light refreshments will be served.
October 20, 2022 6 pm
Author: Mark W. Curran
The Witches of Wildwood – Cape May Horror Stories and Other Scary Tales of the Jersey Shore
LIVE AUDIENCE at the Library’s LOWER LEVEL TARZIAN MEDIA ROOM, with Author Mark W. Curran joining us via ZOOM from Los Angeles!
The Witches of Wildwood: Cape May Horror Stories and Other Scary Tales from the Jersey Shore
10 Stories and a Novella
A Collection of Contemporary Horror Fiction
Werewolves… vampires… swamp beasts… zombies… even a Jersey Devil… all of these chilling creatures and more await you in this haunting collection of 11 contemporary horror fiction stories by Mark Wesley Curran.
Uniquely set ‘down the shore’ in South Jersey’s Cape May County, these scary tales are sure to terrify and entertain both adult readers as well as young adults.
The Spooky Offerings Include:
– An abrasive radio talk show host is stalked by an angry werewolf in ‘Werewolves of Dennis’
– A Fun Pier boardwalk worker falls under the spell of a strange attic dwelling girl in ‘The Girl In The Attic’
– An ancient sailing ship filled with bloodthirsty zombies crashes into the Jersey Shore in ‘Night of the Wildwood Dead’
The cornerstone of the collection is ‘The Witches of Wildwood,’ the harrowing and suspenseful tale of a witch-hunting preacher hell-bent on killing four teenage sisters determined to destroy the world from their Wildwood boarding house.
The Author:
Mark Wesley Curran is a writer of contemporary fiction, specializing in the horror and suspense genre. Born and raised in Suburban Philadelphia, he spent many summers living and working in Wildwood, New Jersey during its heyday. He now resides in Los Angeles where he enjoys creative pursuits as a writer, filmmaker and musician.
You can learn more about his book and him at his website:
July 5, 2022 6 pm
Author: Gregory Andrus
Sand, Sea & Rescue – Lifeguards of the Jersey Shore
LIVE Book Launch and Exhibit at Taylor Pavilion
Sand, Sea and Rescue has over 120 pages of interviews, portraits, and audio recordings highlighting the dedication, courage, and passion that is the calling of the first responders of the beach: the Lifeguard.
The Jersey Shore is the crown jewel of New Jersey summers, and it is the hundreds of lifeguards standing watch over virtually every foot of sand along its 130-mile coast who keep it safe. These brave men and women put their lives on the line day-in, day-out for the duration of the summer, with one goal: making sure everyone is safe.
But what compels these lifeguards to sign up for a job that calls them into danger at any given moment?
Author and photographer Gregory Andrus set out in the summer of 2021 to find out. The result is a beautiful coffee table book filled with compelling first-person stories and striking film photos of these courageous people. This book also includes a very unique addition of 25 audio recordings of the lifeguards sharing their stories in their own voices, via QR code!
Gregory Andrus overcame a decades-long battle with alcoholism and homelessness. When he was 28 years old he was shot in the back of the head as an innocent bystander caught in the middle of a police chase. After getting a second chance at life, he developed a deep faith in Jesus, quit drinking, and has devoted his life to sharing the hope he has from overcoming his circumstances with others he meets along his journey. He is now a husband and a father of two delightfully energetic and curious boys. He runs a locally prolific page on Facebook and Instagram where he shares street interviews of people he meets around the shore. When Gregory is not spending quality time with his family or conducting interviews, he can be found going for long walks with his beloved Golden Retriever, Blue, preferably at his favorite place in the world, the beach.
Learn more about Greg and his projects HERE.
June 18, 2021 10 am
Author: Ali Nolan
Master the Marathon – The Ultimate Training Guide for Women
LIVE in person at the Belmar Public Library
A no-nonsense, interactive guide that empowers all women at all levels to run their strongest, best marathon ever.
Master the Marathon is a comprehensive guide to marathon training for women at all levels of running – beginner, intermediate and advanced. The book takes you through everything you need to know to be prepared for the 26.2 miles of the marathon, including detailed training plans, strength training programs, building our mental awareness of our physical body, nutrition, guidance on fighting the best marathon for you, identifying and avoiding potential injuries, inspirational advice, and other unexpected pieces of wisdom.
The programming in this book was created by a woman, specifically for women.
Ali Nolan is a journalist and writer based in Utah. As the former features editor and a current contributor for Runners World magazine, she is active in empowering women in the running world, having spoken at the Under Armour Women’s Panel, Donna Marathon Pre-race Dinner, and other events. She has completed two road marathons, a trail marathon and other races.
Ali will be joined by Belmar Running Coach and Trainer Erica Coviello!
Learn more about Ali at her website: www.AliNolan.org
April 23, 2022 – 10 am
Author: Perdita Buchan
FLORILLA – A Pinelands Romance
LIVE in person at the Belmar Public Library
Granddaughter of “The Pinelands Witch”, daughter of the self-styled Wizard of the Pines and with powers of her own, eleven-year old Florilla Munion finds herself abandoned deep in the New Jersey Pinelands. Rescued by the itinerant Dr. Peace, she is taken to Benderville, a model mill town in the heart of the Pines owned by the doctor’s old friend, the eccentric, progressive Benjamin Bender. There she grows up.
But Benderville is only the beginning of Florilla’s journey. Her abusive father who knows her powers would benefit his act is a constant threat. She falls in love with an English botanist but is separated from him by circumstance.
The story wends its way from the New Jersey Pinelands to the mills of Massachusetts as Florilla searrches for her place in the world and her lost love. Taking place in the years from 1848 to 1857, the novel is also a reflection on a time when various reformers and philosophers speculated on the best ways to organize life and work.
Perdita Buchan was born in England but came to America as a child. She has since lived in America, England and Italy. Her short stories and essays have appeared in The New Yorker, The Ladies Home Journal, House Beautiful, Fiction Network, The New York Times and The Christian Science Monitor among other publications.
She has published two novels, The Carousel Carver, a story of immigration, of finding a place in a new world, of love lost and found, and Called Away, a story of time travel from twentieth century Vermont to its mirror image in 1816, and a non fiction work, Utopia, New Jersey: Travels in the Nearest Eden, a study of eight early 20th century utopian communities in New Jersey.
After many years in New England, she now lives on the New Jersey coast.
Learn more about Perdita at her website: www.perditabuchan.com
December 11, 2021 – 11am
Author: John Perlow
A Drug Fueled Life – The Bird, The Frog and the Boss
LIVE in person at the Belmar Public Library
This book is a summary of one person’s drug-influenced life and the eventual chaos and consequences that can occur through the progression of the disease. The book (or books, if you will) chronicles one person’s many attempts and desire to escape the grip of addiction!
Long Branch native John Perlow has self-published 8 short books, including memoirs, poetry and nonfiction in the past few years. He’s proud to have completed these projects while he was homeless, jobless, car-less and practically friendless, but never hopeless. He performs comedy, poetry and raps at open mics around NYC and the Jersey Shore.
October 9, 2021 – 10 am
Author: Phyllis Mitchell
Believe, Do You? – A Psychic Medium’s Journey
LIVE in person at the Belmar Public Library
Take a journey through time as Phyllis shares how she learned to embrace both herself and the dead.
The gift of intuition runs deep in Phyllis’ family, but it wasn’t until her early fifties that she finally accepted her God-given gift to offer intuitive guidance and relay messages from deceased loved ones. After hundreds of readings, one key message began to stand out: LOVE IS ETERNAL.
Storytelling with honesty, humor, inspiration and compassion, readers will get hooked on Phyllis’s specific explorations and her pleas for them to do the same. No matter what you believe, this book explores the power of learning to love yourself and living your truth. The culmination of Believe, Do You? – A Psychic Medium’s Journey urges YOU the reader to assess the journey, look eagerly in the mirror, and conclude your own beliefs.
Phyllis Mitchell currently lives with her husband, two children and two cats. When not writing, she gives reading, teaches intuitive classes and interviews people on her YouTube channeland podcast, Psychic Connection.
She also manages her tax practice, volunteers with various organizations and feeds wildlife in her yard – everything she does incorporates her lifelong devotion to helping others. Phyllis wants to thank you for supporting a first time author and let you know that a portion of this book’s proceedswill be donated to her favorite charities.
Visit her website: www.readingsbyphyllis.com
Check out her YouTube Channel Psychic Connection: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCg07hd-GJQ6kx9shnM8vZdQ/featured
August 7, 2021 – 10 am
Author: Stephen E. Gerard
Stuck in the Middle Seat – The Five Phases to Becoming a Midcareer Entrepreneur
Live In Person at the Belmar Public Library
IS IT TIME YOU BECAME A MIDCAREER ENTREPRENEUR?
Having made the transition himself from dutiful employee to midcareer entrepreneur, Stephen Gerard takes on advisory roles, helping aspiring entrepreneurs on their journeys. Since breaking free, Gerard has advised dozens of entrepreneurs as they have ascended from disenchantment into the life and career of their dreams. While Stephen is selective about whom he works with due to time constraints and business fit, he has something to offer any entrepreneur who is looking to take the next critical steps.
Regardless of where you are on your entrepreneurial journey, Stephen is excited to hear from you!
Stephen E. Gerard is Board Chairman of The Leisure Collective International and also Owner of the America’s Division of that business. The global company manufactures and sells premium surf equipment (www.creatures-usa.com/) and premium sunglasses (www.us.otiseyewear.com).
He founded his first startup, TGaS Advisors, at the age of 40. TGaS Advisors (www.tgas.com) was featured on the Inc. 500/5000 list five times, was operated on a global scale and was ultimately involved in buy-and-sell transactions amounting to roughly $100 million in total value. Today, he invests, advises, and owns entrepreneurial endeavors across the globe.
Learn more about Stephen here.
July 15, 2021 – 7 pm
Composer & Lyricist: Tim McCorry
Musical: Coyote
Live In Person at the Belmar Public Library
Coyote: The Story
Inspired by a true story, Coyote is a modern American tale of love and immigration. Pedro and Bernadice are young lovers, determined to be re-united, who turn to a mysterious figure known only as Coyote to help them make a perilous crossing from Mexico into the United States. They have no idea that they have engaged the services of a magical, god-like creature who can change form, leap into their dreams and is bound by neither time nor space. He is a trickster. He is also their only hope.
As the story begins, Coyote emerges from the darkness, daring us to take his hand and to embark on a journey in which we will come to see our own lives mirrored in the struggles of Pedro and Bernadice.
They met and fell in love in Guadalajara, Mexico, but disagree about living there. Pedro is proud of his family’s tradition of farming, while Bernadice sees the worsening conditions of crime and poverty. She leaves for “El Norte” and makes it to the Pacific Northwest. After attending one too many funerals for friends killed by the drug cartels, Pedro finally realizes he must leave. He fears that he has waited too long, that he has been disloyal to Bernadice and no longer deserves her love; that she will find another. She fears that he will not survive the journey and that she is failing in her mission to make a new and better life in this strange new land.
Unknown to Pedro and Bernadice, Coyote is always present: a hard-bitten smuggler, delivering his “product” across the border, a shabby Aztec impersonator entertaining tourists, a lecherous academic tutor, a comical homeowner, and a world weary police officer in downtown LA. He is whoever and whatever he wants to be. We’re not sure he is to be trusted but we’ve come too far to turn back now.
Tim McCorry, composer and lyricist for Coyote began his musical studies at Cornell University, where he also studied architecture, before continuing at New York University. His jazz ensemble album, “Diana”, was an Official Selection in 8 categories at the 2009 Grammy Awards, and was made with singer and daughter, Diana McCorry. That album also received the Silver Award from the Songwriters Association of Washington, D.C. for best jazz and blues composition.
He has also performed with the United States Naval Academy orchestra in Washington D.C. His diverse catalog of original works spans almost 40 years, and since 2010, Tim has been the “architect” of Coyote. This original musical was inspired by a true story that moved him to begin his journey to tell it in music and song.
Tim lives with his wife Erin McCorry and their dog, Jersey Girl, in Freehold, NJ.
Opening Night In America is a Reality TV show pilot and a game-changing opportunity for creative teams with original musicals. Coyote has been selected to be one of four creative teams to compete for a chance to bring our musical to Broadway.
June 17, 2021 – 6 pm
Author: Caridad Piñeiro
Two Titles: South Beach Love & Cold Case Reopened
LIVE VIA ZOOM
Caridad Pineiro is a transplanted Long Island girl who has fallen in love with the Jersey Shore. When Caridad isn’t taking long strolls along the boardwalk, she’s also a NY Times and USA Today bestselling author with over a million romance novels sold worldwide.
Caridad is passionate about writing and helping others explore and develop their skills as writers. She is a founding member of the Liberty States Fiction Writers and has presented workshops at the RT Book Club Convention, Romance Writers of America National Conference as well as various writing organizations throughout the country.
You can connect with Caridad at www.caridad.com. You can also find Caridad on:
Bookbub: https://www.bookbub.com/profile/caridad-pineiro
Facebook at https://www.facebook.com/Caridad.Author
Goodreads at https://www.goodreads.com/Caridad_Pineiro
Instagram at https://www.instagram.com/CaridadPineiro/
Pinterest at http://pinterest.com/caridadpineiro/
Reedsy: https://reedsy.com/discovery/user/caridad-pineiro
May 6, 2021 – 7 pm
Author: Carol Van Den Hende
Goodbye, Orchid – To Love Her, He Had to Leave Her – Debut novel
Can love blossom after life changes in an instant?
One July morning in Manhattan, handsome athlete and entrepreneur Phoenix Walker accompanies his love, half-Asian beauty Orchid, to the airport.
Neither believes today is goodbye.
But after she leaves, disaster strikes. Phoenix wakes in the hospital, broken, forever changed. He longs for Orchid but remembers the tragedy in her past that makes her panic over images of trauma.
Now, he’s faced with the hardest decision of his life. Does he burden the woman whose traumatic childhood makes him feel protective of her? Or does true love mean leaving her without explaining why?
Rising from ashes is hard. Giving up the one you love is harder.
ABOUT THE AUTHOR
CAROL VAN DEN HENDE is an award-winning author who pens stories of resilience and hope. Her novel Goodbye, Orchid won the 2020 American Fiction Award winner for urban fiction, Pinnacle Achievement Award winner for multicultural fiction, IAN Outstanding Fiction for Best First Novel, two Royal Dragonfly Awards, two Best Book Finalist Awards, Audiobook Reviewer New Author of the Year, was long-listed for Chanticleer International Chatelaine Book Award, won a Book Excellence Award and named a Top Book of 2020 by The Write Review. Plus, it’s been featured by Glamour, Buzzfeed, Parade, Travel+Leisure, Chicago Tribune, LA Times, DIYMFA, WABC Radio among others.
Carol is also a speaker, strategist, Board member and Climate Reality Leader. One secret to her good fortune? Her humorous husband, fun-loving twins, and rescue cat, who prove that love really does conquer all.
To learn more about Carol or to sign up for Carol’s newsletter, please visit carolvandenhende.com or linktr.ee/cvdh.
FROM THE BACK COVER
Breathtaking beauty one moment… face-melting eye rolls the next! Follow the Brennans and their three teens on a 7,000-mile summer road trip that changed their family. Caves, peaks and whitewater rapids brought them closer to nature. Hours on the road in “The Couch” (their comfy SUV) brought them closer to each other. Were there fights and freak outs? Of course. Giggles? Every day.
Join in their hilarious search for buffalo, their snowball fights in July, their musical warning for bears. From quiet sunsets to exploding geysers, their journey is a story of family, of foibles, of deepening relationships – with one another and our spectacular country.
Along with insider travel tips and info boxes, Eye Rolls & Awe also includes the latest research that shows:
• Time with our teens is crucial to their health and well-being.
• Nature can make us all healthier, happier and more creative.
• Introducing our adolescents to their public lands is essential for the future of these irreplaceable spaces.
“Carving out an adventure with teens is not only doable, it can be transforming. For our kids. For us. For our national treasures.”
ABOUT THE AUTHOR
Merry Brennan (Author )As a kid, Merry Brennan dreamed of a grown-up life writing books and making art. Then she got sidetracked – as a journalist, activist, columnist, naturalist, communications consultant, adjunct professor, and elected official.
But she finally returned to her story-telling roots and couldn’t be Merrier! Along with Eye Rolls and Awe: A National Park Road Trip with Teens, she authored the middle-grade biographical novel, Peace Pilgrim: walking her talk against hate. Her photographic and digital creations have been featured in many shows, shops, and publications.
You can see her artwork at www.EarthwaysArt.com.
The long-time Jersey Shore resident is always up for a good hike, sail or paddle; never turns down time with family; and looks forward to full moon meditations. She and her musician husband, Tom, have three terrific children, Ciaran, Aislinn and Sean.