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Books & Literature
A Guide to Discovering Your Next Literary Adventure For those who cherish the written word, the world of books offers more than entertainment—it provides escape, inspiration, and endless opportunities for growth. Literature has the power to transport us to different times, places, and perspectives, allowing us to experience lives beyond our own. Whether you’re drawn to the timeless beauty of classic literature or the fresh voices of modern literary fiction, there’s always a book waiting to spark your imagination and enrich your understanding of the world. The Power of Literary Fiction Literary fiction holds a special place in the hearts of readers who crave depth and meaning in their stories. Unlike plot-driven genres, literary fiction often focuses on character development, emotional complexity, and thought-provoking themes. From award-winning contemporary titles to hidden gems, this genre challenges readers to think deeply and reflect on the human condition. If you’re new to literary fiction, starting with accessible works can help you ease into its richness. Novels that balance beautiful prose with engaging storytelling open the door to a world where every word carries weight. For seasoned readers, diving into best literary fiction lists or exploring international voices can provide fresh perspectives and introduce groundbreaking narratives that expand cultural understanding. Rediscovering Classic Literature The allure of classic literature lies in its timelessness. These works not only reflect the eras in which they were written but also explore universal themes that remain relevant today. From Shakespeare’s plays to the novels of Jane Austen, Tolstoy, or Toni Morrison, classics invite readers to revisit the foundations of storytelling and human expression. Reading classics isn’t just about appreciating history—it’s about recognizing how these stories continue to shape modern thought, art, and literature. They provide windows into past societies while offering insights that transcend time, reminding us that love, conflict, ambition, and identity are part of the shared human experience. Finding Your Next Great Read With so many books available, choosing your next read can feel overwhelming. That’s where book reviews and curated reading lists come in. Reviews highlight the strengths and themes of each book, helping you decide which stories align with your interests. Recommended lists—such as “best books on relationships,” “impactful feminist literature,” or “must-read contemporary novels”—offer tailored suggestions that make discovery easier. Exploring different genres can also uncover unexpected favorites. You might find yourself hooked on dystopian literature, captivated by modern classics, or inspired by works centered on cultural identity and social themes. Each book you pick up becomes a stepping stone on your personal literary journey. Reading for Personal Growth Books are more than stories—they are teachers, guides, and companions. Personal growth literature provides practical tools for improving mental, emotional, and even spiritual well-being. From self-help bestsellers to deeply reflective memoirs, these works can spark change and inspire progress in everyday life. Similarly, relationship advice books offer wisdom on building healthier, more fulfilling connections. By weaving together storytelling and practical strategies, they show how literature can impact not just the mind, but also the heart and relationships we value most. Expanding Perspectives Through Culture and Identity Many powerful works of literature explore themes of cultural identity and social belonging. These books provide voices to underrepresented experiences and broaden our understanding of different communities. By engaging with these narratives, readers develop empathy and a deeper appreciation for diversity. Literature becomes a bridge—connecting people across borders, traditions, and ideologies. The Endless World of Books From modern literary fiction to timeless classics, from feminist essays to dystopian adventures, literature offers something for everyone. Each book has the potential to open a new world, challenge a long-held belief, or simply provide comfort after a long day. The act of reading itself is transformative, encouraging reflection, curiosity, and growth. So, whether you’re building a reading list of contemporary bestsellers, revisiting beloved classics, or exploring books that push you outside your comfort zone, remember: your next literary adventure is always just a page away.
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Fiction
Fiction – A World of Imagination and Storytelling Introduction Fiction has always been one of the most powerful ways for humans to share stories, explore imagination, and understand life through different perspectives. Unlike non-fiction, which is rooted in facts, fiction creates worlds—sometimes realistic, sometimes fantastical—where readers can lose themselves, reflect on human experiences, or simply enjoy the adventure of storytelling. From ancient myths to modern novels, fiction remains central to how we connect with ideas, emotions, and each other. What Is Fiction? Fiction is any story born from imagination rather than strict historical record. That doesn’t mean it’s completely detached from reality. Many fictional works draw inspiration from true events, cultural traditions, or personal experiences, but they reshape them into narratives that carry deeper meaning. Whether it’s a romance novel, a detective mystery, or an epic fantasy, fiction thrives on creativity. Types of Fiction Fiction spans a wide range of genres, each offering unique experiences for readers: Romance: Focused on love, relationships, and emotional connections. Mystery & Thriller: Driven by suspense, puzzles, and solving crimes. Fantasy: Worlds filled with magic, mythical creatures, and epic adventures. Science Fiction: Exploring futuristic technology, space travel, and alternate realities. Historical Fiction: Stories set in specific time periods, blending history with imagination. Literary Fiction: Character-driven, focusing on themes, language, and the human condition. This diversity is one of fiction’s greatest strengths—there’s a story for every reader, mood, and curiosity. Why Fiction Matters Fiction isn’t just entertainment. It plays an important role in shaping imagination, empathy, and culture. Through stories, readers can: Escape reality: Fiction provides a safe space to rest from daily stress. Build empathy: By stepping into a character’s shoes, readers understand different lives and perspectives. Explore ideas: Complex topics like morality, justice, or love are easier to approach through stories. Preserve culture: Fiction often reflects traditions, myths, and histories in creative ways. In this way, reading fiction enriches both the mind and the heart. The Experience of Reading Fiction Fiction invites readers into another reality. Some stories grip us with suspense, making us turn the pages late into the night. Others unfold slowly, drawing us into deep emotional journeys. Unlike factual accounts, fiction uses imagination to evoke wonder and curiosity. For many, reading fiction becomes a cherished habit—a form of companionship that is always available. Fiction in Modern Times With technology and streaming entertainment, some worry that books are losing relevance. Yet fiction continues to thrive, not just in novels but also in digital forms such as audiobooks, web novels, and interactive storytelling. The core appeal of fiction—imagination—remains timeless. Whether told by a campfire, written in a book, or presented on a digital platform, stories continue to shape how we see ourselves and the world. Notable Works of Fiction Some fictional works have stood the test of time and become cultural touchstones: Pride and Prejudice by Jane Austen – a classic romance with sharp social commentary. 1984 by George Orwell – a chilling vision of surveillance and authoritarianism. To Kill a Mockingbird by Harper Lee – exploring justice and morality through a child’s eyes. The Lord of the Rings by J.R.R. Tolkien – an epic fantasy of courage, friendship, and good versus evil. These works highlight how fiction can entertain while also asking deep questions about society, humanity, and personal values. Conclusion Fiction is far more than make-believe—it is a reflection of life through imagination. From love stories to fantasy epics, from mysteries to thought-provoking literary works, fiction gives readers the chance to escape, connect, and reflect. It fuels creativity, expands empathy, and preserves the art of storytelling across generations. No matter the genre, fiction remains a vital part of human culture, reminding us that stories are at the heart of what it means to be human.
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Non-Fiction
Non-Fiction – Exploring Truth Through Stories and Knowledge Introduction Non-fiction is the art of telling real stories, sharing knowledge, and exploring truth. Unlike fiction, which springs from imagination, non-fiction is grounded in reality. It can inform, inspire, persuade, or challenge, depending on the subject. From history and science to memoirs and self-help, non-fiction offers readers a window into the world as it is—and sometimes as it could be. What Defines Non-Fiction? Non-fiction includes any written work that presents facts, ideas, or real-life experiences. But that doesn’t mean it lacks creativity. A good non-fiction book uses storytelling techniques, clear structure, and engaging language to make reality as compelling as any novel. What makes it unique is its purpose: to educate, document, analyze, or inspire through truth. Major Types of Non-Fiction Non-fiction covers countless categories, but some of the most popular include: Memoirs & Biographies: Personal life stories that inspire and reveal unique journeys. History: Detailed accounts of past events, cultures, and transformations. Self-Help & Personal Growth: Practical advice on health, relationships, finance, and mindset. Science & Technology: Explaining discoveries, theories, and innovations in simple terms. Travel Writing: Immersive accounts of places, cultures, and adventures. Essays & Journalism: Analytical or opinion pieces exploring society, politics, or culture. This diversity makes non-fiction appealing to nearly every reader, since it offers something valuable for different interests. Why Non-Fiction Matters Non-fiction plays an essential role in learning and self-discovery. Its importance lies in how it: Informs: Readers gain accurate knowledge and facts about the world. Inspires: Stories of real people overcoming challenges motivate others. Builds perspective: Non-fiction broadens understanding of cultures, politics, and science. Guides action: Self-help and practical guides encourage readers to improve their lives. Unlike fiction, which asks us to imagine, non-fiction asks us to pay attention to reality and learn from it. The Experience of Reading Non-Fiction Reading non-fiction can be just as engaging as reading a novel. A well-written history book can feel like a thrilling journey through time. A memoir can draw readers into deeply personal emotions and struggles. A self-help book can feel like a conversation with a trusted mentor. Each experience offers both enjoyment and practical value, making non-fiction a unique blend of entertainment and education. Non-Fiction in the Modern World Today, non-fiction is more accessible than ever. Audiobooks, podcasts, blogs, and online articles all expand how people consume real stories and information. Popular trends include true crime, motivational books, and works that address urgent topics like climate change, mental health, and social justice. With so much information available, non-fiction helps readers separate fact from opinion and develop critical thinking skills. Notable Examples of Non-Fiction Some works of non-fiction have shaped culture and thought for generations: The Diary of a Young Girl by Anne Frank – a moving account of courage and hope during the Holocaust. Sapiens: A Brief History of Humankind by Yuval Noah Harari – exploring the history and future of humanity. Becoming by Michelle Obama – an inspiring memoir about personal growth, leadership, and resilience. The Immortal Life of Henrietta Lacks by Rebecca Skloot – combining science, ethics, and human stories. These books show how non-fiction can be deeply informative while also emotionally powerful. Conclusion Non-fiction is a celebration of truth in all its forms. Whether through history, memoir, science, or self-help, it helps us understand reality, learn from others, and improve our lives. More than just facts, it’s about meaning—why events matter, how experiences shape people, and what lessons we can carry forward. In an age overflowing with information, non-fiction continues to guide, inspire, and connect us with the world around us.
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Feminist Literature
Feminist Literature – Voices That Challenge and Inspire Introduction Feminist literature has been a transformative force in shaping how society understands gender, equality, and identity. Through essays, novels, poetry, and memoirs, feminist writers have used literature to question social norms, amplify marginalized voices, and advocate for change. Far from being limited to one perspective, feminist literature encompasses diverse experiences across cultures, generations, and movements. It is both an art form and a call to action, reminding readers that literature can influence justice and equality. What Is Feminist Literature? Feminist literature explores themes of gender inequality, power, and identity. It seeks to reveal how social systems affect women and other marginalized groups, while also imagining more inclusive futures. Some works directly advocate for women’s rights, while others highlight the everyday struggles of characters navigating a world shaped by inequality. Together, they form a body of writing that has challenged readers and inspired movements. Core Themes in Feminist Writing Gender Roles: Questioning traditional expectations of women and men in society. Identity and Voice: Highlighting women’s perspectives and experiences often overlooked in mainstream literature. Intersectionality: Exploring how gender interacts with race, class, sexuality, and culture. Resistance and Empowerment: Showcasing how individuals challenge injustice and reclaim power. Equality and Justice: Imagining societies where fairness and inclusivity guide relationships and systems. These themes remain central, but feminist literature also evolves with each new generation, reflecting contemporary struggles such as workplace equity, reproductive rights, and digital activism. The Role of Feminist Literature in Society Feminist literature does more than tell stories—it sparks conversations and movements. In the 19th and 20th centuries, books like A Room of One’s Own by Virginia Woolf and The Second Sex by Simone de Beauvoir challenged the limitations placed on women’s lives. Later, works such as bell hooks’ Ain’t I a Woman? and Audre Lorde’s poetry broadened the conversation to include race, sexuality, and identity. By putting women’s voices at the center, feminist literature rebalances narratives long dominated by male perspectives. It validates lived experiences, empowers individuals to question norms, and contributes to legal and cultural change. Why Readers Turn to Feminist Literature Readers engage with feminist literature for many reasons: Self-discovery: It helps people reflect on their own roles in systems of inequality. Empathy: Stories highlight struggles that may be invisible to others. Education: Non-fiction feminist works explain history, theory, and activism. Inspiration: Characters and real-life voices demonstrate resilience and courage. Community: Reading feminist literature often connects people to broader social conversations. Notable Works of Feminist Literature Some titles stand out as landmarks in the genre: A Room of One’s Own by Virginia Woolf – exploring women’s independence and creativity. The Second Sex by Simone de Beauvoir – a foundational text in feminist philosophy. The Color Purple by Alice Walker – a powerful novel addressing race, gender, and resilience. Bad Feminist by Roxane Gay – essays reflecting on feminism in contemporary culture. We Should All Be Feminists by Chimamanda Ngozi Adichie – an accessible and modern exploration of equality. These works demonstrate the diversity of feminist writing, from philosophical arguments to deeply personal stories. The Lasting Impact of Feminist Literature The influence of feminist literature extends beyond bookshelves. It has inspired social movements, influenced legislation, and changed the way media represents women. It also continues to inspire new generations of writers who push boundaries and redefine what feminism means in their time. Conclusion Feminist literature is both a reflection and a catalyst. It gives voice to lived experiences, questions unjust systems, and imagines better futures. By reading these works, we not only gain insight into struggles for equality but also participate in the ongoing effort to create more inclusive societies. Whether through classic texts or modern essays, feminist literature remains a vital force, reminding us that stories can change the world.
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Latest Articles in Books & Literature
Joseph Tito
Books & Literature
Baptized by the Sicilian Sun
Every Year, I become a pilgrim to Sicily.I fold myself into a suitcase—Toronto’s steel and glass still clinging to my skin—and land where the air tastes of lemon and salt.The sun is different here.It’s not just warmth—it baptizes.It presses its fire into my bonesuntil I am molten,until the goddess I keep locked away all winterwalks out in bare feet across the hot sand.In Sicily, every table hums with history:tiles cracked by centuries,walls whispering in dialects older than maps,laughter that lingers like incense.Here, they hand you limoncello not as a sale,but as an offering.A backyard lemon tree distilled into liquid sun—and they wait, eyes bright,to see if your tongue recognizesthe sweetness of their land.I walk away each summerchanged, sharper, softer.The overstated textures—red volcanic dust,blue Mediterranean mirrors,ochre walls collapsing into beauty—sear themselves into my memory.My irises expanding to absorb every detail.I carry them back to Toronto,tuck them into the corners of my work.So when winter drapes its heavy shawl,when the sky hangs low and colorless,I pour fire from my moka pot,sip bitterness that tastes of Sicilian mornings.I remember the woman I become there,my alter ego rising like heat off stone.And so, even in the deepest cold,I stitch August into February,bringing the South into the North—so that my work, my words, my daysare brightened by the goddesswho wakes every summeron that island of sun, sand, and sea.
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Joseph Tito
Books & Literature
Cher: The Memoir, Part One - A Goddess in the Details: Cher: The Memoir, Part One Dismantles the Myth While Reinforcing the Legend
For those of us born in 1979, Cher has always been an icon. Not just a singer, not just an actress, but a symbol—of reinvention, resilience, and an almost mythic glamour. She was the woman in sequins who refused to age, to apologize, or to shrink. She was power in eyeliner and leather, commanding the stage like a storm you wanted to get caught in. But what happens when the icon steps down from the pedestal and hands you the story behind the spotlight?Cher: The Memoir, Part One doesn’t just invite you in—it lays you flat.Released in November 2024 by Dey Street Books, this first installment of Cher’s life story debuted at number one on The New York Times Bestseller list—and for good reason. Far from a puff-piece retelling of career highs and celebrity name-drops, this book traces the origin of a force. It begins, not with fame, but with lineage—with her mother Georgia, whose own hardships quietly scaffolded Cher’s future. The story of a woman raised by a woman raised by struggle. What emerges is not just the making of a star, but the making of a survivor.The voice is unmistakably hers: wry, reflective, vulnerable but never sentimental. Cher recounts poverty, identity, betrayal, and loss with a clarity that feels earned. There are moments of undeniable glamour, yes—but they sit beside stories of self-doubt, heartbreak, and sheer willpower.And that’s what makes this memoir remarkable. It doesn’t shatter the myth of Cher. It expands it.You leave the book understanding that the woman who strutted through decades of cultural change in six-inch heels was also the child who watched her mother patch dignity out of thin air. That her strength wasn’t just performed—it was inherited, sculpted, and often forged under pressure.This isn’t just a story about Cher. It’s a story about the women who built her. And in reading it, you don’t just admire her more—you understand her. Which, for a woman who’s spent decades turning herself into a moving target of expectation, is its own kind of revelation.The second volume, Cher: The Memoir, Part Two, is scheduled for release in 2025. If the first book is any indication, it won't just chronicle a legend—it will humanize one."I don’t break. I reinvent."— Cher
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Admin - BTC
Books & Literature
3 Powerful Reads About Starting Over, Speaking Up & Reclaiming Your Story Grit. Grace. No Going Back.
This month, we’re diving into books that remind us it’s never too late to choose yourself. Whether it’s Britney reclaiming her voice, Maggie turning heartbreak into poetry, or Joseph Tito ripping the lid off the chaos of queer fatherhood—these stories are sharp, unfiltered, and full of hard-won wisdom. For anyone standing at a crossroads (or crawling out of one), these reads don’t just inspire—they validate.The Woman In Me by Britney SpearsA pop icon's voice—finally unfiltered. Britney pulls back the curtain on fame, freedom, and the cost of being everyone's fantasy. From conservatorship to clawing back her power, it's raw, resilient, and proof that silence was never consent. This is her story, on her terms, and it hits like a long-overdue exhale. You don’t just read it—you feel every beat of a woman reclaiming her life.Random Thoughts: The Sh*t We Don’t Talk About by Joseph TitoHe’s messy, queer, and done pretending life is supposed to make sense. In this brutally honest collection, Joseph Tito cracks open fatherhood, failure, faith, and the sh*t we don’t talk about—with wit, warmth, and zero apologies. It’s part therapy session, part kitchen table rant, and all heart. You’ll laugh, cry, and feel seen in ways you didn’t know you needed.You Could Make This Place Beautiful: A Memoir by Maggie SmithA poet’s divorce becomes a masterclass in reinvention. In lyrical fragments, Maggie Smith excavates motherhood, ambition, betrayal, and beauty—with equal parts ache and awe. It’s quiet power wrapped in prose you’ll want to underline. Every page feels like a whisper that somehow shouts the truth. It’s not just a memoir—it’s a mirror for anyone learning to start over, rebuild, and write a new chapter on their own terms.
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L.C. Martens
Books & Literature
4 Memoirs That Rip the Mask Off and Hand You the Truth MEMORY, MYTH & MESS
This month, we’re spotlighting voices that unearth the truth behind the personas. Whether it’s a clinical label, a celebrity myth, or a family story that never sat right—these books don’t just tell you what happened. They tell you why it matters.Somebody’s Daughter by Ashley C. FordA childhood in fragments. A woman built from what was left.Ashley C. Ford’s memoir is a masterclass in memory—how it distorts, protects, and eventually, liberates. Raised by a single mother in Indiana while her father served time in prison, Ford unspools the complexities of family, desire, race, and silence. Every sentence is emotionally precise, like she wrote it with a scalpel instead of a pen. It’s a coming-of-age story that doesn’t rely on tidy arcs or easy redemption—and that’s exactly why it hits so hard. It’s about loving the people who failed you, and learning how not to become them.Sociopath by Patric GagneA diagnosis. A dare. A dissection of the human mask.What if the person society fears the most could explain us better than we explain ourselves? In Sociopath, Dr. Patric Gagne rips the stigma off a word that’s long been weaponized. This isn’t a horror story. It’s a human one. With scalpel-sharp precision and unexpected tenderness, Gagne charts her life through the lens of sociopathy—offering a rare window into emotion, connection, control, and what it really means to “fake it until you make it.” It's equal parts memoir and manifesto, and it will leave you questioning everything you thought you knew about empathy. Chilling? Yes. But also strangely freeing.The Rules Do Not Apply by Ariel LevyGrief, freedom, and the cost of living on your own terms.Ariel Levy had it all—career, marriage, ambition, adventure—until a single trip to Mongolia changed everything. The Rules Do Not Apply is not a pity memoir; it’s an autopsy of a life unraveling and a stunning meditation on what happens when control is an illusion. Levy doesn’t tidy her trauma. She writes through the wreckage, not around it—with humor, clarity, and astonishing emotional precision. It’s the kind of book that makes you gasp because it’s saying the thing you never said out loud. Ideal for anyone who’s ever had to start over while still bleeding.Random Thoughts: The Sh*t We Don’t Talk AboutUnfiltered, unflinching, and unexpectedly poetic—Joseph Tito’s memoir is less a collection of thoughts than a series of emotional detonations.Reviewed by L.C. MartensIn Random Thoughts: The Sh*t We Don’t Talk About, Joseph Tito doesn’t ease readers in. He throws them headfirst into the chaos of real life—fatherhood, queerness, anxiety, grief, reinvention—and dares them to sit in the discomfort. What unfolds is a candid, nonlinear excavation of identity that feels more like a late-night kitchen table confessional than a traditional memoir.Tito writes in sharp, staccato bursts—part essay, part inner monologue, part survival guide for anyone who’s ever wondered if they’re doing this whole “life” thing right. The tone is often sardonic, but never cruel. Vulnerable, but never self-pitying. He has the rare ability to be both biting and deeply compassionate in the same paragraph—a man who has clearly lived through some sh*t and still finds the nerve to laugh about it.This is not a tidy book. Nor should it be. Structured in thematic vignettes rather than chapters, Random Thoughts feels intentionally fractured—as though Tito is showing us that healing doesn’t come in clean lines. One minute, he’s describing the exhaustion of solo parenting twins; the next, he’s meditating on the silence of growing up gay in a devout Catholic household. The juxtaposition is jarring at times, but it works. Life rarely offers a graceful segue.Where Tito excels is in the details. A spoon left in a cereal bowl. The hum of a monitor after midnight. The feeling of being “on” for everyone, always. These small, sensory moments anchor the larger existential questions he raises: Who are we without our titles? How do we love when we’re broken? What does it mean to show up—for ourselves, for our families, for our messy, beautiful, unfinished lives?There are echoes here of Maggie Nelson’s The Argonauts, the no-bullshit intimacy of Cheryl Strayed, and the existential humor of David Sedaris—with a distinctly queer, distinctly fatherly, distinctly Joseph Tito twist.Some readers may crave a clearer arc or narrative throughline. But to demand linearity from a book about emotional chaos is to miss the point. Tito’s randomness is intentional. His “sh*t we don’t talk about” includes everything from gender roles and toxic masculinity to burnout, body image, and the quiet ache of missed dreams. These essays pulse with lived experience, earned wisdom, and a permission slip to be wholly, imperfectly human.Random Thoughts isn’t just a memoir. It’s a mirror. A permission slip. A reclamation. For anyone who’s ever felt like they had to hold it together while coming undone—this book sees you. And more than that, it dares you to speak.Highly recommended. But don’t expect to finish it without underlining half of it—or rethinking the way you show up in your own life.“I used to think my worth was in how much I could hold together. Now I know—my power is in how much I’m willing to let fall apart.”-Joseph Tito“Tito doesn’t write to impress—he writes to connect. Somewhere between the cereal bowls and spiritual reckonings, you’ll feel less alone.”
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Admin - BTC
Books & Literature
Memoirs Worth Reading
Ketanji Brown Jackson doesn’t write to impress—she writes to connect. Lovely One is a clear-eyed, personal account of becoming, in all its quiet complexity. It’s not a victory lap or a manifesto. It’s a meditation on legacy, service, and staying rooted when the world is watching.Through daughterhood, motherhood, and leadership, Jackson invites readers into the shaping moments behind the robe—from childhood curiosity to the cultural weight of being the first. The prose is graceful, grounded, and deeply human.There’s power in how she resists drama. No theatrics. No grandstanding. Just a steady unraveling of how values form and history moves forward—one choice at a time.This isn’t about breaking glass ceilings for applause—it’s about naming the cost of doing it with dignity. For anyone holding both excellence and empathy in one body, this story stays with you.Reading Hoda Kotb’s latest memoir feels like curling up with a mentor who knows when to offer wisdom—and when to just pour the wine. Jump and Find Joy doesn’t pretend life is perfect. Instead, it gently reminds us that change isn’t something to fear—it’s something to lean into.Kotb shares reflections on aging, motherhood, reinvention, and letting go with a warmth that never feels performative. Her optimism is hard-won, not saccharine. There’s a groundedness here that’s rare in memoirs by public figures—she’s not selling transformation, she’s showing you what it looks like to choose peace over perfection.This is a memoir for anyone standing at the edge of a shift: a career pivot, a parenting season, a personal unraveling. It doesn’t offer a roadmap—but it does offer a reminder that joy isn’t a destination. It’s a choice. And it’s still available to you, even now.This book is a slap, a laugh, and a hug all in one. Brooke Shields doesn’t just write about aging—she unpacks it, challenges it, and dares you to think differently about what it means to grow older in a world that still prefers its women shiny, silent, and twenty-something.With her signature wit and no-bullshit delivery, Shields tackles vanity, invisibility, motherhood, sex, grief, and grace—all without a trace of apology. She knows she’s privileged, but she also knows what it means to feel erased. That duality is what makes this book so powerful: it’s funny and deeply vulnerable at once.If you’ve ever stared in the mirror and wondered when you stopped being seen, this one’s for you. It doesn’t offer easy answers. But it does offer companionship—and sometimes that’s even better.Mean Baby: A Memoir of Growing UpBy Selma Blair | Published by KnopfSome books you read. Others crawl under your skin and set up camp. Mean Baby is the latter—messy, unfiltered, and completely unapologetic about it.Selma Blair got her nickname before she could walk, and honestly? It fits. This isn't your typical Hollywood memoir full of grateful platitudes and sanitized trauma. Blair serves up her life raw: the addiction, the rage, the spectacular failures, the MS diagnosis that finally made sense of decades of her body betraying her.But let's back up. Blair's childhood reads like a masterclass in emotional neglect disguised as upper-middle-class normalcy. Her mother—brilliant, beautiful, and utterly incapable of maternal warmth—treats young Selma like an inconvenient reminder of her own limitations. Her father, a lawyer who numbs himself with alcohol and emotional distance, barely registers as present. It's the kind of family dysfunction that breeds performers: people who learn early that love is conditional, earned through being entertaining or invisible.Enter Hollywood, where Blair's particular brand of self-destruction finds its perfect playground. She writes about her early career with brutal honesty—the roles that required her to be the quirky best friend, never the lead. The parties where she'd drink until she disappeared from herself. The relationships where she'd perform versions of femininity that never quite fit. There's no glamour here, just the grinding reality of trying to build a life on a foundation of "not enough."What makes this book punch different? Blair refuses to perform recovery for us. She doesn't tie her pain up in pretty bows or pretend rock bottom taught her valuable life lessons. When she writes about alcoholism, it's not inspirational—it's the boring, daily grind of -choosing numbness over feeling. When she talks about her body, it's with the complicated relationship of someone who's been at war with herself for decades.The real gut-punch comes in her unflinching look at motherhood. Blair doesn't pretend pregnancy fixed her or that maternal love erased her damage. Instead, she gives you the terror of loving someone more than yourself when you can barely keep yourself alive. The fear that you'll pass down your dysfunction. The exhaustion of trying to be stable when your brain chemistry has other plans.Her MS diagnosis arrives like a plot twist that recontextualizes everything—those falls, the tremors, the bone-deep exhaustion that doctors dismissed for years. But Blair doesn't let it become the tidy explanation for all her messiness. Because here's the thing: some of us are just born complicated, and the medical system's failure to see women's pain clearly is just another layer of bullshit we're expected to navigate gracefully.There's humor here, but it's the kind that makes you laugh and wince simultaneously. The kind that comes from surviving yourself over and over again. Blair writes like someone who's done pretending she's anyone other than exactly who she is—complicated, difficult, and completely human. She'll have you cackling at her description of a disastrous date one minute, then reaching for tissues when she describes watching her own body betray her the next.The writing itself is gorgeous in its jaggedness—sentences that start one place and end somewhere completely different, just like memory itself. Blair doesn't write chronologically because trauma doesn't work that way. Instead,she gives you moments: the taste of wine at fourteen, the feeling of losing yourself in a role, the first time she couldn't pretend her symptoms were normal anymore.Mean Baby is a love letter to everyone who's tired of apologizing for taking up space. It's for anyone who's ever been called "too much" and wondered if maybe that's exactly what the world needs more of. Blair's refusal to be anyone's inspiration is, paradoxically, deeply inspiring. She's not here to teach you lessons or offer hope. She's here to tell the truth about what it's like to live in a body and brain that feel like they're working against you.BTC Verdict: Read this if you want a memoir that feels like your most honest friend telling you her secrets at 2 AM. Read it if you're exhausted by inspiration porn and ready for something that doesn't promise everything will be okay. Read it if you need permission to be difficult, imperfect, and still worthy of love. Most importantly, read it if you've ever felt like you came into this world complicated—and you're tired of pretending that's something to fix."Every person on this earth needs just one person who sees them and roots for them. Deeply, truly. One person."
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Joseph Tito
Books & Literature
Author Spotlight: Heidi Rybak’s Accidental Romance Revolution
From Chef to Spicy StorytellerWhen life serves you lemons, some people make lemonade. Heidi Rybak? She accidentally wrote a spicy romance novel that's about to set readers' hearts (and other parts) on fire.Picture this: You're a chef at a school, spending your days perfecting kid-friendly menus and running after-school cooking programs. You've been married for 21 years, raised two teenagers, and survived the hellscape that was 2021. Then, somewhere between the chaos and the quiet, you start writing what you think is just a little love story.Plot twist: You've actually crafted a beautifully raw, unapologetically steamy romance that makes your own sister beg for more pages.Welcome to the deliciously unexpected world of Heidi Rybak, whose debut novel "If Life Were A Movie" is dropping this November courtesy of JEO Publishing—and honey, we are here for every single page.The Accidental Spice QueenIt kind of happened by accident," Heidi admits with the kind of genuine surprise that makes you want to both hug her and shake her. "I never set out to write a spicy novel. I didn't even realize it was spicy until I reread it."Excuse us while we collectively swoon.This isn't some calculated attempt to ride the romance wave—this is pure, unfiltered storytelling that happened to get deliciously heated along the way.Heidi started with about 50 pages during the post-COVID haze of 2021, abandoned it when life picked up again, then rediscovered her literary fire when a colleague read her work and basically demanded more.The result? A story about Jane, a bookstore owner who's spent her entire life living vicariously through fictional love stories, only to find herself in the most non-traditional romance of her dreams. Think "You've Got Mail" meets your steamiest book club pick, with a healthy dose of real-life messiness thrown in.More Than Just HeatBut here's where Heidi gets interesting (beyond the obvious): This isn't just about the spice. Scratch beneath the surface of those perfectly crafted intimate scenes, and you'll find something deeper brewing."This book isn't just about romance," we told her during our chat. "It's about losing yourself and finding your voice again."Her response? She was genuinely shocked that we'd pulled those themes from her work. Because apparently, while Heidi was busy crafting Jane's journey of self-discovery and healing, she was unconsciously working through her own shit too."I talk a lot," she laughs, "but I've always had difficulty talking about my feelings. Writing characters who can be open and honest—that's something I wish I could become."Enter collective "same, girl" from every reader who's ever used fiction as therapy.The Real Behind the RomanceHere's where it gets heavy for a hot minute: Heidi lost her mother when she was 20, and grief has been her unwelcome companion for decades. It wasn't until recently, working with a therapist who finally asked the right questions, that she began to heal."Grief is a lot of waiting," she reflects. "You're constantly waiting for something to change, and that can seem endless."But here's the plot twist worthy of her own novel: that healing journey? It's woven throughout Jane's story, creating something that's equal parts escape and mirror, fantasy and truth."I tell people you'll get through it—I never say you'll get over it. You learn to be this new person who carries it with them, and it won't define who you are. It will only become a part of who you are."And if that doesn't make you want to immediately add this book to your TBR pile, check your pulse.The Anna Kendrick of Romance WritingWhen we asked who'd play her in the movie version of her life, Heidi went with Anna Kendrick—and honestly, the choice is perfect. Both have that razor-sharp wit wrapped in vulnerability, that ability to make you laugh while gut-punching you with truth."I find her delivery and sense of humor... someone that I feel like she could emulate me," Heidi explains. "She's probably a bit young to play me, but that's what Hollywood's for, right? Make me a bit younger. Why not."We stan a woman who knows her worth and her fantasy casting.What's Next for Our Accidental Romance QueenCurrently battling imposter syndrome harder than any of us battle Monday mornings, Heidi can barely believe this is all real. But here's what we know: when someone accidentally writes something this authentic, this layered, this downright good—it's no accident at all."If Life Were A Movie" hits shelves in November 2025, and trust us, you'll want to clear your calendar. This is the kind of book that reminds you why you fell in love with love stories in the first place, while serving up enough heat to fog up your reading glasses.Fair warning: You might find yourself texting your book club at 2 AM demanding emergency meetings. You might ugly-cry over the epilogue. You might accidentally find yourself healing some of your own shit along the way.But most importantly? You'll remember that the best love stories—the ones that really matter—are the messy, complicated, beautifully imperfect ones that feel startlingly, wonderfully real."If Life Were A Movie" by Heidi Rybak releases November 2025 published by JEO Publishing. Prepare your emotions accordingly.
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Shari Franke
Books & Literature
The House Of My Mother
Not Your Instagram-Perfect Family StoryWe've all done it—scrolled through picture-perfect families on social media while sitting in our messy living rooms, wondering what the hell we're doing wrong. But what happens when you're on the other side of that screen, smiling for the camera while your world crumbles behind the scenes?Shari Franke's gut-punch of a memoir gives us the unfiltered reality behind the curated fantasy. As the eldest daughter of Ruby Franke—yes, that Ruby Franke from the once-worshipped YouTube channel "8 Passengers"—Shari rips off the Valencia filter to show the bruises underneath.This isn't a celebrity tell-all written to cash in on family drama. It's a reckoning. It's what happens when a child raised under relentless public scrutiny finally gets to tell her own damn story.The moments that stick with you aren't the grand revelations (though there are plenty). It's the smaller betrayals: a haircut disaster turned into a viral video titled "Shari I'm So Sorry," childhood mistakes monetized for content, and love that came with strings attached to view counts and engagement metrics."Behind every perfect family photo was a director shouting 'Smile!' and a child wondering if she'd ever be enough without an audience. I wasn't living my life—I was performing it."— Shari FrankeWhat makes this book necessary reading isn't just Shari's personal story—it's how uncomfortably familiar her struggle feels to anyone living in our digitally-dominated hellscape. How much of yourself do you sacrifice at the altar of likes and follows? At what point does sharing become exploitation? And how do you find your authentic voice when you've been speaking someone else's script your entire life?Shari navigates these questions with unflinching honesty, refusing to tie everything up with a neat inspirational bow. She even protects her siblings' privacy by changing their identities—a small but powerful act of rebellion against the overexposure that defined her childhood.The House of My Mother is raw, real, and necessary for anyone who's ever tried to heal what they didn't break. Not a fairytale. Not a pity party. Just the messy, beautiful truth of survival and self-reclamation.The House of My Mother - Shari FrankeRead it. Then maybe rethink what you share online about your kids. And definitely write us to tell us which parts made you cry in public—because trust me, you will."Reclaiming your story isn't just about speaking up—it's about learning which parts of yourself aren't for public consumption. The greatest act of rebellion was keeping something—anything—just for me."
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Caroline Fernandez
Books & Literature
Parent Club Picks
Smart, silly, and standout stories your kids will actually want to read.Caroline Fernandez, author of 17 children’s books, is known for blending curiosity, creativity, and real-life heroes. Her Asha and Baz series—including Asha and Baz Meet Gladys West—inspires kids to see how STEM can shape the world.Follow her on Bluesky and Instagram: @ParentClubThe Little RegentWritten by Yewande Daniel-AyoadeIllustrated by Ken DaleyPublished by Owlkids BooksA little girl is tasked with ruling her West African village in this empowering story about breaking from tradition and leading with your heart.How to Party Like a SnailWritten by Naseem Hrab and Illustrated by Kelly CollierPublished by OwlKids BooksAn introverted snail throws his own kind of party to celebrate all things quiet.Dragon On The LooseWritten by Marty ChanIllustrated by Grace ChenPublished by Orca BooksWhen eleven-year-old Hailey and her friend Kyle make a wish on a Chinese lion statue, they accidentally bring a dragon to life.Meg and Greg: The Bake SaleWritten by Elspeth Rae & Rowena Raelllustrated by Elisa GutierrezA decodable book featuring four phonics stories specially designed to help children of all abilities overcome language-based learning difficulties.The Kodiaks Home Ice AdvantageWritten by David A. RobertsonHockey fans will love this action-packed middle grade novel about teamwork, overcoming adversity, and being proud of who you are and where you come from.MortifiedWritten by Kristy JacksonIllustrated by Rhael McGregorPublished by HarperCollins Publishers Ltd.It’s nothing short of a catastrophe when someone secretly signs up Belinda Houle, the school’s shyest kid, to audition for a play.If You Can Dream It You Can Do ItBy Colleen Nelson and Kathie MacIsaacPublished by Pajama PressThere is no single path to the job of your dreams.Plant Attack!: The Fascinating Ways Flora Defends ItselfWritten by Erin Silver and Julie McLaughlinPublished by Orca Book PublishersJust like people and animals, plants need to defend themselves.SilverwingBy Kenneth Oppel andIllustrated by Christopher SteiningerPublished by Harper CollinsA stunning adaptation of a tale that’s been winning hearts for twenty-five years.39 Clues: One False Note: A Graphic NovelWritten by Gordon KormanIllustrated by Hannah TemplerPublished by ScholasticThe second installment in the mega-bestselling The 39 Clues series, now in graphic novel form!The Space Between Here and NowWritten by Sarah SukPublished by Quill Tree BooksA teen with a mysterious condition that transports her to the past when she smells certain scents linked to specific memories.LockjawWritten by Matteo L. CerilliPublished by Tundra BooksDeath is neither the beginning nor the end for the children of Bridlington in this debut trans YA horror book.Pride PuppyWritten by Robin StevensonIllustrated by Judy McLaughlinPublished by Orca BooksPremise: a rhyming alphabet book about a puppy at a pride parade.This picture book is part of a U.S. Supreme Court case in Maryland where parents are challenging that they have a constitutional right to opt their children out of lessons of reading books which include LGBTQ+ characters.
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Nora Winters
Books & Literature
EXCLUSIVE: THE MAN BEHIND THE THOUGHTS An intimate conversation with Joseph Tito on his new book, fatherhood, and the journey from jet-setter to truth-teller
It's an unusually warm spring afternoon when I meet Joseph Tito at a sunlit café in the arts district. He arrives in a simple black t-shirt, jeans with what appears to be a small handprint of glitter on one knee, and an easy smile that immediately puts me at ease. The former film director and producer, now author of the highly anticipated "Random Thoughts: The Sh*t We Don't Talk About" (releasing May 15th), carries himself with the relaxed confidence of someone who has nothing left to prove—and perhaps, more tellingly, nothing left to hide.As he settles in across from me, apologizing for being two minutes late ("school pickup line drama—someone brought homemade slime to share"), I'm struck by how different he seems from the sleek industry powerhouse who once commanded film sets across the Middle East and Europe. The transformation is the subject of not only our conversation today but also the core of his upcoming work.NW: Your book "Random Thoughts" comes out in just days. For those who haven't heard about it yet, what should they expect?Joseph Tito: laughs Definitely not a traditional self-help book. It's more like... all those thoughts you have at 2 a.m. in the shower or during that weird existential moment in the grocery store checkout line. It's everything we bottle up because we're too afraid to say it out loud.The book dives into the messy middle of life—not just fatherhood, but identity, mental health, relationships, grief, anxiety, aging, love. It's nonlinear, sometimes punchy, sometimes poetic, but always unfiltered. I wrote it not as some expert with answers, but as someone who's lived through the chaos and still chooses to show up, even on the days when showing up feels impossible.There's this misconception that it's just a parenting book, but it's really about the human experience—which parenthood happens to crack wide open in this particularly intense way. It's for anyone who looks like they have it all together on Instagram but is falling apart quietly at night. The stuff we only whisper to our closest friends that I finally gave myself permission to write down.NW: That's quite different from what's typically available in the self-help section. What made you decide to write it?JT: I think we're drowning in advice but starving for truth. There are plenty of books telling us how to optimize our lives, fix our problems, become better versions of ourselves. But I needed something that acknowledged how messy and contradictory the human experience actually is.After the twins were born, that need became even more acute. This massive life change cracked me open in ways I wasn't prepared for, and I started writing—not to give advice or find solutions, but to make sense of my own experience. To document the emotional truth of what I was going through.It began as these scattered late-night notes on my phone. Shower thoughts. Random reflections that felt too raw to share but too important to forget. Eventually I realized these fragments were telling a larger story about vulnerability, transformation, and what it means to show up authentically in a world that rewards performance.So many of us are walking around with these heavy thoughts we don't feel safe expressing. We think we're the only ones who feel this way. I wanted to say the quiet parts out loud, to create a space where people could feel less alone in their internal struggles.NW: You mention this identity shift. You had quite a different life before fatherhood, didn't you?JT: laughs You could say that. Before the twins, I was the guy catching flights to three different countries in a week, living out of luxury hotels, working 20-hour days on set, then unwinding at industry parties until dawn. My life was high-octane, glamorous in that exhausting way the entertainment industry can be. Red carpets, film festivals, production emergencies in exotic locations.It was thrilling and fulfilling creatively, but there was also this... emptiness to it. A sense that I was collecting experiences rather than fully living them. I was always moving too fast to feel anything completely."We’re drowning in advice but starving for truth."NW: And then came fatherhood.JT: nods And then came fatherhood, which slams the brakes on everything and forces you to feel absolutely everything at full volume. There's no emotional fast-forwarding through parenting. It demands your full presence in a way nothing in my previous life ever did.My husband Frank and I had talked about having kids for years, but the reality of suddenly being responsible for two tiny humans—these fierce, funny little girls who are both completely dependent on you and absolutely their own people from day one—it rewrites your entire operating system.NW: Your twins, Stella and Mia, are six now. How would you describe them?JT: his whole face lights up They're magnificent chaos machines. Completely different from each other but somehow operating as a unit. Stella is this old soul in a tiny body—contemplative, justice-oriented, always asking questions that make me question my entire worldview. Last week she asked me why grown-ups invented money if it makes everyone so stressed out. I'm still working on an answer.Mia is pure kinetic energy—she experiences the world physically, takes everything apart to see how it works, feels everything at maximum intensity. When she's happy, the whole house vibrates with it. When she's upset, it's like witnessing a tiny Greek tragedy.Together, they're this perfect storm of curiosity, drama, profound insights, and bathroom humor. They've made me laugh harder than I ever have in my life, and they've broken me open in ways I'm still trying to understand.NW: Your writing voice is very distinctive—raw but also wickedly funny. Has that always been your natural style?JT: In life, yes. In my work, not until recently. My professional life in film was all about control, polish, and presenting a certain image. The entertainment industry rewards that kind of curated self-presentation.But there's something that happens when life breaks you open—whether through parenthood, grief, anxiety, or any other profound experience—where maintaining that polished facade becomes impossible. And honestly, it starts to feel pointless too.The voice in "Random Thoughts" emerged from necessity. It's how I talk to my closest friends at 1 a.m. when the masks come off. It's equal parts vulnerability, humor as survival mechanism, and this stubborn insistence on finding beauty in the broken places.I've always processed difficult emotions through humor—not to diminish them, but to make them bearable. There's something about laughing in the dark that feels like an act of rebellion. The book captures that tension between the heavy stuff and finding unexpected lightness within it.NW: The book covers much more than parenting—you write about mental health, grief, identity, relationships. Was it difficult to be so vulnerable about such personal topics?JT: pauses Terrifying, actually. There's safety in keeping your struggles private. Once you put them on paper, they exist outside of you. They become real in a different way.But I've found that the things we're most afraid to talk about are usually the things that connect us most deeply to others. The specific circumstances might differ, but the core emotions—fear, doubt, grief, longing—those are universal.Mental health is a central theme in the book because it's been central to my journey. I write about my experiences with anxiety, therapy, the ways trauma lives in the body. Not because I have any expert knowledge, but because I know what it's like to feel broken and alone in that brokenness.Same with grief. I lost my father right before the twins were born, which created this strange convergence of endings and beginnings. Writing about that intersection—how joy and pain can coexist—felt necessary, even when it was uncomfortable.The most vulnerable sections were actually the hardest to write but ended up being the most impactful for early readers. There's something powerful about naming the things we're afraid to admit, even to ourselves.NW: I understand you have another book in the works, a memoir coming in 2026?JT: nods Yes, "From Jet Setter to Fatherhood" coming April 2026. While "Random Thoughts" is more of a collection of essays and reflections on the human condition, the memoir goes deeper into my personal journey—the transition from that fast-paced international career to this very different life centered around family.It explores questions of identity, reinvention, what it means to let go of a version of yourself you thought you'd always be. It's about grief and joy coexisting, about finding unexpected purpose, about creating family on your own terms.It also gets more into the specifics of queer fatherhood, surrogacy, raising children without traditional gender expectations, and navigating a world that still doesn't have many models for families like ours.NW: Final question—what do you hope readers take away from "Random Thoughts"?JT: Permission. Permission to hold contradictory emotions simultaneously. Permission to be a work in progress. Permission to acknowledge the dark thoughts without being defined by them.I hope it creates a sense of connection—that someone will read a passage and think, "Oh my god, I thought I was the only one who felt this way." There's profound relief in that recognition, in knowing you're not alone in your most private struggles.I also hope it encourages people to have more honest conversations. So many of us are walking around carrying these heavy thoughts—about our identities, our mental health, our relationships, our deepest fears—and we think we're the only ones. We're all performing for each other, and it's exhausting.If this book can be a container for some of those difficult emotions—if it can help name them and bring them into the light—then maybe we can all breathe a little easier. Maybe we can be a little gentler with ourselves and each other.And if readers can laugh along the way—even at the hard parts, especially at the hard parts—that's the best outcome I could hope for. Because finding humor in the struggle is sometimes the only way through it.Joseph Tito's "Random Thoughts: The Sht We Don't Talk About" releases May 15th wherever books are sold. His memoir "From Jet Setter to Fatherhood" is forthcoming from Horizon Press in April 2026.*
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JEO Publishing
Books & Literature
April Must-Reads
Why The Nightingale by Kristin Hannah Still Captivates ReadersKristin Hannah’s The Nightingale is a heart-wrenching tale of courage and survival during World War II. Following two sisters in Nazi-occupied France, it’s a story of love, resilience, and the sacrifices made in the darkest times. This novel doesn’t just recount history; it humanizes it, shining a light on the women who fought their own battles in the shadows.Fast-forward to today, and its upcoming movie adaptation has reignited excitement for this literary masterpiece. With its emotional depth and powerful narrative, the film promises to bring Vianne and Isabelle’s bravery to life on-screen, reminding us why their story continues to resonate.If you’re a fan of historical fiction or simply crave a story that stays with you, The Nightingale is a must-read. It’s an unforgettable journey into the strength of the human spirit.Don’t miss out—let its timeless message inspire you.Sunrise on the Reaping: A Must-Read for Hunger Games FansSuzanne Collins returns to Panem with Sunrise on the Reaping, a gripping prequel to the Hunger Games series. Set decades before Katniss Everdeen’s rise, it explores the origins of the Games and the political chaos that shaped this dystopian world.This novel offers a fresh perspective while retaining the tension and vivid world-building fans adore. Collins balances action and emotion, creating flawed yet relatable characters that pull readers into a story of survival, power, and humanity.Fast-forward to today, Sunrise on the Reaping has reignited excitement for the Hunger Games universe, offering new insight into its fractured society. It’s a powerful addition for fans craving more or anyone seeking a thought-provoking page-turner.Step back into the world of Panem and discover the story that started it all—grab your copy today.
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Joseph Tito
Books & Literature
Inspiration - A Dream Decades in the Making
Margaret had always dreamed of writing a book. She’d carried the idea with her for decades—through her career, raising her kids, and even into retirement. Now in her 70s, she finally decided it was time. But with no experience in publishing and a lifetime of self-doubt whispering in her ear, the dream felt more like a distant star than something she could hold in her hands.When Margaret reached out to us at JEO Publishing, she said, “I don’t even know where to start. All I have is a story and a hope.” That was all we needed to hear.We started with a conversation, listening to her story and the passion behind it. Margaret’s book wasn’t just words on a page—it was her life, her lessons, and her legacy. She wanted to write something her grandchildren could hold, something that would carry a piece of her into the future.Our team worked side by side with Margaret, guiding her through every step of the process. From manuscript development to editing, we helped her shape her story into something beautiful and meaningful. She had full creative control, and we made sure her voice stayed authentic—every word, every sentence, was hers.When it came time for the design phase, Margaret’s face lit up as she saw the first drafts of her book cover. “It’s real,” she whispered, tears in her eyes. “It’s really happening.”Now, Margaret is just weeks away from publishing her first book. She’s gone from doubting herself to holding her nearly-finished manuscript with pride. Her story—a collection of memories, lessons, and love—is about to be shared with the world. And she’s proof that it’s never too late to follow your dreams.At JEO Publishing, we believe everyone has a story worth telling. Whether you’re a first-time writer like Margaret or a seasoned author, we’re here to help you bring your vision to life. We take care of the publishing process—from editing to design to global distribution—so you can focus on what matters most: your story.Margaret’s journey reminds us why we do what we do. Stories have the power to connect us, heal us, and leave a legacy for generations. And there’s no greater honor than helping someone share theirs with the world.Your story deserves to be told. Let us help you write your next chapter.
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Joseph Tito
Spotlight
Winning Her Way: How Melissa Grelo Redefines Success
THE NOTE WAITING IN HER HOTEL ROOMMelissa Grelo was on the brink of one of the boldest moves of her career - a wellness retreat built on her Aging Powerfully platform, the passion project she’s nurtured alongside running a podcast, parenting an 11-year-old, and hosting The Social, Canada’s most-watched daytime talk show. Her daughter, Marquesa, had tucked a note into her bag with strict instructions: Don’t open until you get there.Alone in her hotel room, minutes before leading a room full of women who’d come to learn from her and the group of experts she had curated, Melissa finally opened it. On the first page, in her daughter’s unmistakably confident handwriting:I am so proud of you.“It was a very long letter,” Melissa laughs now. “She’s a very prolific writer. Her vocabulary is fabulous.”But the message was simple: Go. Do this. I’m good. I’m cheering for you.This is what it looks like when a woman builds a life that supports her joy - and raises a daughter who sees and celebrates it.THE GAME IS RIGGED. SHE PLAYS IT ANYWAY.Let’s get something straight: Melissa Grelo hasn’t come undone. She’s building a life, a career, and a rhythm that reflect her strengths, not society’s expectations. What she has done is thrive in an industry where women, especially those on camera, still face extra layers of scrutiny: age, appearance, composure, perfection. Viewers often expect media personalities to be flawless, polished, and ever-present, even when their lives are evolving behind the scenes.And still, Melissa moves forward with clarity and confidence.When The Social finally premiered, it wasn’t just another show for her. It was something she had dreamed up, pitched, and championed for years. So even though she was only 11 weeks postpartum, she chose to be there - excited, grateful, and fully aware of the significance of stepping into a project she had helped bring to life.“I went back to work really fast after I had her,” she says calmly. Not apologizing. Not justifying. Simply acknowledging that the moment mattered to her. She wanted to show up for something she had helped build.Men call this dedication. Women are often told it’s “balance.” But the truth is simpler: Melissa followed her ambition and trusted herself.WHEN HER BODY HIT PAUSE, SHE HIT RESETA year and a half after Marquesa was born, Melissa was hosting Your Morning and The Social. Early mornings, long days, big interviews, and two live shows that demanded focus and energy. Her career was expanding quickly, and she was embracing every opportunity that came with it. Mid-flight to Calgary, her body signaled it was time to calibrate - dizziness, racing heart, the kind of symptoms that demand attention. Doctors checked her vitals: all perfect.The lesson wasn’t “slow down,” it was “support yourself.”She did exactly that. Therapy. A later call time. And a more intentional approach to her already full life.“I’m very bad at resting,” she admits with a smile. “I’ve always been foot-to-the-floor.”But instead of pushing harder, she adjusted smarter. She didn’t crumble; she evolved.THE MATH OF MODERN PARENTHOODMelissa had Marquesa at 36, and like many parents who have children later in life, she occasionally does the quiet calculations – how old she’ll be at major milestones, how life stages might line up. “Always, always,” she says. “Everybody does the math.”But here's what the math doesn't consider: wisdom. Experience. A fully formed self."What we feel like we might be behind in or losing in age, we've gained in wisdom," she says. "We're bringing a whole different self to parenting."Her daughter gets the version of Melissa who knows who she is. Who lived a full life first. Who built a career and collected stories and mistakes and victories before motherhood.This Melissa doesn't crumble when the culture whispers that she's "aging out." She launches a podcast called Aging Powerfully and fills a retreat with women who want what she's modeling: strength without shame."I'm going to be the youngest version of my age at every step of the way."CHOOSING A FAMILY PLAN THAT FITS THEIR LIFEAfter four years of fertility treatment and two clinics, Melissa conceived naturally the very summer The Social was greenlit.Later, when she and her husband Ryan discussed having a second child, they communicated honestly and without pressure.“I’m not slowing down,” she told him. “If we have another, lead caregiving will fall on you.”They talked it through. They both had ambitions. They chose one child. A thoughtful, mutual decision.No guilt. No external expectations. Just a family designing a life that makes sense for them.“I’m very proud of how I’ve navigated the challenges,” she says, recognizing her own growth and the strength in choosing intentionally.RAISING A DAUGHTER WHO KNOWS SHE BELONGSPeople often ask ambitious mothers how they teach their daughters that they can “have it all,” but Melissa reframes the question. For her, the focus is helping her daughter understand that when challenges arise, the issue isn’t her, it’s the world she’s moving through.The approach in their household is simple and open. “There are no secrets in our family,” she says. “Just living life.”Marquesa knows the real stories behind Melissa’s journey - the fertility challenges, the anxiety attack, and the truth of what ambition can cost and give. She also sees something her mother developed later in life: strong boundaries.“She has boundaries very clear in a way I didn’t figure out until my mid or late 30s,” Melissa says. “When my daughter sees me pushing myself too hard because I don’t have good boundaries, she already does.”Their connection is built in everyday moments. At bedtime, Melissa asks: “What makes you feel loved?” and “What moments matter most?” And the answers are always the same - braiding her hair, cuddling on the couch, the rituals that make her feel safe and seen.It’s presence over perfection. Consistency over performance. Love woven into the ordinary parts of life.THE COSTUME AND THE TRUTHEvery morning, Melissa puts on the polished on-air version of herself. Every night, she settles into sweatpants on the couch.“This is who I am,” she tells her daughter. “Work-Mommy is a costume.”Marquesa prefers the no-makeup version.Melissa even built a clothing line - MARQ, named after her daughter, because she wanted kids to feel free before the world labels them.“I’m not throwing gender expectations on a child who still has placenta on her,” she jokes.Their house uses RuPaul’s Drag Race and Love Island as jumping-off points for conversations about character and confidence.“What’s more important than being pretty?” Melissa asks.Marquesa never hesitates: Being smart. Being kind.CHOOSING A FAMILY PLAN THAT FITS THEIR LIFEAfter four years of fertility treatment and two clinics, Melissa conceived naturally the very summer The Social was greenlit.Later, when she and her husband Ryan discussed having a second child, they communicated honestly and without pressure.“I’m not slowing down,” she told him. “If we have another, lead caregiving will fall on you.”They talked it through. They both had ambitions. They chose one child. A thoughtful, mutual decision.No guilt. No external expectations. Just a family designing a life that makes sense for them.“I’m very proud of how I’ve navigated the challenges,” she says, recognizing her own growth and the strength in choosing intentionally.RAISING A DAUGHTER WHO KNOWS SHE BELONGSPeople often ask ambitious mothers how they teach their daughters that they can “have it all,” but Melissa reframes the question. For her, the focus is helping her daughter understand that when challenges arise, the issue isn’t her, it’s the world she’s moving through.The approach in their household is simple and open. “There are no secrets in our family,” she says. “Just living life.”Marquesa knows the real stories behind Melissa’s journey - the fertility challenges, the anxiety attack, and the truth of what ambition can cost and give. She also sees something her mother developed later in life: strong boundaries.“She has boundaries very clear in a way I didn’t figure out until my mid or late 30s,” Melissa says. “When my daughter sees me pushing myself too hard because I don’t have good boundaries, she already does.”Their connection is built in everyday moments. At bedtime, Melissa asks: “What makes you feel loved?” and “What moments matter most?” And the answers are always the same - braiding her hair, cuddling on the couch, the rituals that make her feel safe and seen.It’s presence over perfection. Consistency over performance. Love woven into the ordinary parts of life.THE COSTUME AND THE TRUTHEvery morning, Melissa puts on the polished on-air version of herself. Every night, she settles into sweatpants on the couch.“This is who I am,” she tells her daughter. “Work-Mommy is a costume.”Marquesa prefers the no-makeup version.Melissa even built a clothing line - MARQ, named after her daughter, because she wanted kids to feel free before the world labels them.“I’m not throwing gender expectations on a child who still has placenta on her,” she jokes.Their house uses RuPaul’s Drag Race and Love Island as jumping-off points for conversations about character and confidence.“What’s more important than being pretty?” Melissa asks.Marquesa never hesitates: Being smart. Being kind.WINNING LOOKS DIFFERENT THAN THEY TOLD USOur interview took place on Melissa’s train ride home, a quiet moment in her busy day. As the train pulls into the station, Melissa gathers her things. Ryan is on pickup duty. Tomorrow she’ll do it all again, the work she loves, the routines she cherishes, a life she’s built intentionally.Tonight, she’ll braid Marquesa’s hair. She’ll ask the questions that matter. She’ll settle into the couch as her real self.The version that is fully present.The version that embraces every part of her life with intention.The version showing her daughter what’s possible when you follow your own path.And someday, when another letter comes, it won’t say I miss you.It will say:I see you. And I’m proud.
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Joseph Tito
Spotlight
The Woman Who Wouldn't Giggle: Elvira Caria's Four Decades of Refusing to Play Nice
After 40 years of fighting for her voice in broadcasting, Elvira Caria lost the only title that ever mattered to her: Matthew's momThere's a street named after Elvira Caria in Vaughan. She didn't pay for it, she'll tell you right away. Awards line her walls—forty years' worth of recognition for lifting up her community, for being the voice that shows up at every damn event with her phone and her genuine give-a-shit attitude.But when I meet her at The Roost Café on a grey autumn morning, she says the work that matters most is the stuff nobody sees."My real satisfactory work?" She pauses, weighing whether to trust me with this. "I help young girls escape human trafficking. You can't put that on social media."This is Elvira Caria: the woman who refused to be radio's giggling fool, who chose late-night shifts over morning show glory so she could be home when her son's school bus arrived, who now sits across from me one year after burying that same son at 25."I wouldn't be here if it wasn't for the community," she says. And she means it literally.The Day She Found Her Voice by Refusing to Use ItPicture this: a young Elvira in a radio control room, told by a well-known male broadcaster that her job was to giggle. To be the pretty voice that makes him sound better."I don't do giggling fool," she says now, decades later, the Southern Italian fire still in her voice.She stopped showing up to giggle on cue. Got fired on a Friday. Instead of folding, she handed her termination papers back: "If you can find a better reason to fire me on Monday, I'll accept it. If not, I'm coming back."Monday passed. So did Tuesday. By Friday she expected another dismissal—everyone fires on Fridays. But a month later the man who told her to giggle was gone. Elvira stayed for six more years."I found my value voice," she says. "I wasn't going to bend for someone else's value."The Choice That Looked Like SacrificeAt the height of her career, being groomed for a morning show at one of Canada's top stations, Elvira walked away."Nobody quits Rock Radio," her boss said."Well, I just did."She took the shifts nobody wanted—weekends, evenings, 3 a.m. hits at Yonge and Dundas. People called it sacrifice. She calls it choice."While others were sleeping, I was talking to the people we now call homeless. Nobody wakes up saying, I want to be on the streets when I grow up. Nobody."The choice meant she was home when Matthew got off the school bus. It meant knowing his friends, his teachers, his world. For 25 years, it meant being Matthew's mom first, Elvira Caria second.The Irony That Breaks YouHere's the part that will gut you: she spent decades insisting she was more than just Matthew's mom. She was a broadcaster, a journalist, a voice for the voiceless. She built a career on authenticity when authenticity could get you fired.And then, in 2024, Matthew was gone— twenty-five years old and on the edge of everything. Suddenly all Elvira wanted was the one title that had been stripped away."Matthew never saw me as a radio announcer," she says, voice steady, eyes somewhere else. "He saw me as his mom. And that's all he cared about."The Part Where She Stops Pretending Everything's FineLet's talk about not getting out of bed. About hygiene being optional when grief is bone-deep.Her sister-in-law was the one who finally broke through: "They need you. My boys need you! You're more than their Zia." So Elvira took small steps. A shower became a victory. Coloring her hair, an achievement. Looking in the mirror and trying to recognize whoever stared back."I'm mad at God," she admits. "People say everything happens for a reason. What's the fucking reason? Why take away a kid who never did anything wrong, who was just starting his life?"The Community That Saved Her When Awards Couldn'tTen people can tell Elvira she's wonderful. One critic cuts deeper at 3 a.m. That's human.She'll admit some awards now feel hollow—accolades in a season of loss. The recognition doesn't heal the absence.But the community? They showed up in ways that mattered. The woman from her coffee shop who just sat with her, no words needed. The neighbor who mowed her lawn without asking, week after week, because grief means grass keeps growing when you can't. The radio colleague who took her shifts without question when she couldn't form words, let alone broadcast them. The mothers from Matthew's old baseball team who still text her his jersey number on game days. Or the Baseball league who named an umpire award after him."Someone left groceries at my door every Tuesday for three months," she tells me. "Never found out who. Just bags of real food—not casseroles, not sympathy lasagna—but the exact brands I buy. Someone paid attention to what was in my cart before. That's community."The vigils, the legacy fund in Matthew's name, the quiet notes slipped under her door—that's what kept her standing."The real work happens in shadows," she says. "Helping a girl escape trafficking. Watching her graduate two years later. That's when I think—okay, maybe I've done enough to meet my maker."The Wisdom of Not Giving a FuckAfter decades of answering every critic, she's learned the most radical act: indifference."You don't have to react to everything," she says. "Not everything requires an explanation."She still hates small talk, still loves a stage. The influencer economy baffles her. "People think having a phone makes them reporters. Broadcasting is an accreditation—you're trained how to interview, how to fact-check, how to smell bullshit."Who She Is NowA year later, she's still figuring it out. Still showing up at community events with her phone and her give-a-shit intact. Still ironing her underwear (yes, really) because some control is better than none.The street sign with her name stands in Vaughan, but she lives in the in-between—between public recognition and private purpose, between the veteran broadcaster and the grieving mother."The evil grows faster than good," she says. "We're always catching up."So she keeps going. Not because grief eases—it doesn't. Not because she's found a new purpose—she hasn't. But because stopping isn't her style.She refused to giggle back then. She refuses to perform now. And maybe that's the lesson: sometimes the most powerful thing you can do is keep showing up, even when you don't know why you're still here. Especially then.Elvira Caria continues to support multiple charities across the GTA while maintaining her broadcasting career. She's still mad at God, still helping girls escape trafficking, still learning who she is now. She does not need your sympathy. She might need you to know that grief has no timeline, authenticity isn't content, and sometimes the bravest thing you can do is refuse to play along.
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Joseph Tito
Spotlight
The Dentist Is Between My Legs: Bif Naked on Heart Surgery, Picking Felons, and Why She's Just Getting Started at 54
The punk icon who found euphoria on an operating table talks death doulas, divorce gratitude, and why her failing marriage hurt more than cancerBy Joseph Tito | Between the Covers | November 2025Bif Naked is cutting up her dog's food with her hands when I ask how it feels to be a legend.She looks at me like I've asked her to explain quantum physics in Swahili. "I'm a dog mom," she says, and goes back to mincing. Her fingers work methodically, tearing dog food into smaller and smaller pieces. The woman who once spit on audiences from punk stages now performs this daily ritual of care with the focus of a surgeon.This is going to be that kind of conversation—where every expectation gets shredded like dog food.The Operating Table High"So I was wide awake," Bif says, settling into her Toronto condo couch, miniskirt riding up as she crosses her legs. She's talking about her heart surgery like most people describe a spa day. "They thread a little camera through your leg all the way to your heart, and they can see what they're doing on the screen."She leans forward, eyes bright with the memory. "The surgeon is wearing a pineapple hat—like, the surgical hat had cartoon pineapples on it. And they're listening to William Shatner singing. Have you ever heard him sing? Who knew this album existed?"This is a woman describing having a hole in her heart closed with what she calls "a little umbrella device," conscious the entire time, finding it all hilarious and profound in equal measure. Her voice gets almost reverent: "I thought, this is the coolest shit ever. How is it possible that in this lifetime, I can listen to these people talking about their day jobs, which is fixing my stupid heart?"Then comes the moment that gives this article its title. They need to inject Novocaine into her leg to make the incision. You know that heavy, aching feeling from the dentist?"I said, 'Oh! It feels like the dentist is between my legs.'"She covers her face, laughing and mortified simultaneously. "The nurses started howling. This patient is on the table, making what they think is dirty talk. But I just meant—" she gestures helplessly "—the Novocaine!"Her whole body shakes with laughter now. "Of course that's what I said. How fucking funny is that?"God's Rejection and Other Love Stories"God is not going to choose me for whatever reason," she says, the laughter suddenly gone. "I'm going to stay here on earth and have to deal with it. Because I'm not learning my lessons yet."The shift in energy is palpable. She's talking about her pattern now—the violent men, the criminal boyfriends, the marriages to liars. "If there's a wrong guy, send him my way. If he is a criminal, if he's a violent felon, send him my way. I'm going to fall in love with that idiot every time."She delivers this like a weather report, no self-pity, just fact. When I ask why she got divorced, she doesn't hesitate: "Because I married liars." Then, catching herself: "But I have to look at what my fault was."She discovered what healthy relationships actually look like at 54. Fifty-four. After two failed marriages, cancer, and enough medical trauma to kill most people twice. "I had no idea relationships were supposed to be healthy," she says, and the wonderment in her voice is genuine. "I think that I've always been chasing true love. I'll never give up on love, ever."The contradiction sits there between us: the woman who picks monsters still believes in fairy tales."My emotional crisis of my failing marriage trumped my cancer experience."She says this so matter-of-factly that I almost miss it. The dissolution of her marriage during treatment hurt more than the actual cancer. Her hands, which had been still, start moving again—straightening pillows, adjusting her jewelry."Which was good," she adds quickly, "because it forced me to throw myself into volunteering."The man who married a rock star got a cancer patient instead, couldn't handle the plot twist. Now she trains as a death doula, works in palliative care. "If I was told tomorrow that I could not be a performer anymore," she says, her voice steady, "I think I would go into hospital administration."The Stage She Was Always SeekingBefore Bif Naked existed, there was a theatre kid at the University of Winnipeg who'd taken ballet for 13 years. She demonstrates a position, her leg extending with muscle memory from decades ago. "I wanted to be an actress and a ballet star."Then a drummer named Brett needed a singer. Suddenly she had a vehicle for all her poetry, all her rage about El Salvador and Indigenous treatment and misogyny. Whether it was ballet slippers or combat boots, she was always searching for a stage—just took her a while to find the right one."I got to stand up there. I got to spit on the audience. I got to say, fuck you, you can't objectify me." Her voice rises with the memory, that old fire flickering. "I didn't even have to sing very well. And believe me, I could not. I sounded like a dying cat."She pauses, grins. "And I don't mean the band Garbage."They opened for DOA. NoMeansNo. Bad Religion. She dropped out of university, and here's the kicker—"I'm still waiting to go back to school," she laughs, thirty-something years later, like she might actually do it.The same rage that fueled her screaming about El Salvador now targets Doug Ford's Ontario. "I couldn't figure out why I moved here," she says. "Then Ford got elected and I thought, 'Oh. I'm here to use my big mouth.'"The Children She'll Never Have (Or Will She?)When she cuts up that dog food with such maternal precision, I have to ask about kids. Her whole body language shifts—shoulders dropping, a softness creeping in."My ovaries were taken out at 36. So breast cancer didn't just cut up my tit." She says this with the same directness she uses for everything else, but her hand unconsciously moves to her stomach. "I've been in menopause since I was 36 years of age."People ask about adoption—she is, after all, adopted herself. The sarcasm returns, protective: "Oh yeah, let me get right on that. Let me turn around as a divorcee who's working nonstop as a self-employed artist in Canada and get right on the adoption train."But then, unexpectedly: "Now in my mid-50s? Yeah, I suppose I am ready."The possibility hangs there. Not this year. But the door isn't closed.Tina Turner's Miniskirt Ministry"I look to women like Tina Turner," she says, smoothing her miniskirt with deliberate intention. "Tina Turner didn't start playing stadiums till she was in her 50s."At 54, she genuinely believes she's just getting started. The documentary premiering across Canada this month (November 12 in Toronto, November 4 in Vancouver). The album finally released after she shelved it during the George Floyd protests because "the world didn't need a fucking Bif Naked record" during that summer of unrest."The sky is the limit," she says, and means it.When I ask who she's fighting for now, what her voice stands for at 54, she barely breathes before answering."When I was singing 'Tell On You' on my first record, I wasn't the only girl who was sexually assaulted," she says, her voice dropping to something harder, older. "I was the only girl with a microphone."The room goes quiet. Even the dog stops moving.She calls herself "a square" now—no cocaine, no partying. "I can be thoughtful and intelligent. I can try very hard to be a voice for the voiceless."But square doesn't mean silent. She's angrier about politics than ever, advocating for animals, healthcare inequality, LGBTQ+ rights rollbacks."Unfortunately," she says with a grin that's pure punk rock, "I'm still the one holding the mic."What's Next Is What She WantsThey're making a feature film about her life. The documentary's touring. When I ask what's next, she almost defaults to "that's a Peter question"—her manager's domain—then catches herself, takes ownership."We're working on the feature film based on the book."But really, what's next is whatever the fuck she wants. She's earned that.I ask what she'd tell a young girl starting out in music today. She thinks, really thinks, her face cycling through decades of memory."Never take it personally. Never take anything personally, no matter what."Then she says something that makes me stop writing: "There's room for everybody."This from a woman who had to claw for every inch of space. Who quit drinking partly to avoid being "misinterpreted" by men who'd use any excuse to discredit her. Who's been assaulted, dismissed, divorced, nearly killed."Anybody can make music on their computer, anybody can learn piano on YouTube, anybody can upload a song and send it to their nona," she continues, and she means it. "That's actually a gift."As I'm leaving, she's back to cutting up dog food, this ritualistic care that anchors her. I think about what she said about God not choosing her yet, about having to stay here and deal with it.But watching her hands work—the same hands that punched stage divers, that held microphones during cancer treatment, that reached for violent men who couldn't love her back—I realize something.She keeps saying she hasn't learned her lessons. But maybe she has. Maybe the lesson is you can marry liars and still believe in love. You can lose your ovaries at 36 and mother the whole world anyway. You can tell your surgical team the dentist is between your legs and still become a legend.She looks up from the dog bowl, catches me staring."I wasn't the only girl who was sexually assaulted," she says again, quieter this time but somehow louder. "I was the only girl with a microphone."Bif Naked's documentary tours Canada this month. Her album "Champion" is available now. She still wears miniskirts and heels. She's just getting started.
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Joseph Tito
Spotlight
New York Fashion Week: The Good, The Meh, and The What-The-Actual-Fuck
When the Fashion Capital Serves You Dreams, Disappointments, and One Designer Who Needs a Reality CheckBy: Joseph TitoThere's something about New York that makes you feel alive even when it smells like hot garbage and betrayal. Maybe it's the way the concrete seems to pulse with ambition, or how even the pigeons strut like they're on a runway. I went to Fashion Week expecting to see the future of fashion. What I got was a masterclass in both how to do it right—and a stomach-turning lesson in how catastrophically wrong it can go.Let me start with the good, because Runway 7 deserves their flowers before I burn down someone else's garden.The Organization That Actually Gives a DamnIn a world where fashion events often feel like you're crashing a party where nobody wants you there, Runway 7 was different. Three women in particular made magic happen: Diane Vara—the PR & Marketing Director who, despite handling all PR and managing a team of marketers, still took a second to make you feel welcomed with a simple, genuine smile; Christina Kovacs, Director of Brand & Sponsorships who refreshingly didn't know how she could help but still tried; and one more angel whose name I'm tracking down because my notes app crashed—fashion week, am I right?This matters more than you think. When you're surrounded by people who look like they subsist on green juice and contempt, having someone treat you like an actual human being feels revolutionary.The Designers Who Understood the AssignmentLet's talk about Melissa Crisostomo from Unique Custom Threads. This woman gets it. Every piece that walked down that runway was a one-of-a-kind statement that made you stop mid-scroll and actually look. She's been at this for three and a half years, self-taught, originally a fine artist—and it shows. There's something about designers who come to fashion from other art forms. They're not trying to recreate what's already been done. They're creating what doesn't exist yet."Every time I approach a fashion collection, I try and create something new," Melissa told me backstage, and honey, she wasn't lying. That back-open number? Even the straight guys were taking notes.The models themselves were a revelation. Karan Fernandes, 29 but looking like she could play a high schooler on Netflix, flew in from Boston just for visibility—no hotel, no payment, just pure hustle and hope. Levana, a women's-only personal trainer who teaches self-defense on the side, strutted that runway like she was teaching it a lesson about power. These weren't just pretty faces; they were stories on legs.When New York Felt Like New YorkThere were moments when Fashion Week lived up to its promise. The energy backstage—"boobs, makeup, lashes, everything flying everywhere," as Levana perfectly put it. The grandmother from Alabama watching her 10-year-old granddaughter work the runway with equal parts pride and protective terror. The writer and her plus-one BFF who dressed like she was the main character (because honestly, she was).Even the city itself played its part. That particular New York magic where just walking the streets makes you feel like you're part of something bigger, even when you're dodging mysterious puddles and men who think "hey beautiful" is a conversation starter.But Then Came Rhinestone Sugar CoutureAnd this is where I need you to put down your coffee and pay attention.I had to walk out of a fashion show. Me. The person who sat through an entire experimental theater piece about sentient tampons. But this? This broke me.Picture this: Seven, eight, nine-year-old girls. High heels. Makeup that would make a Vegas showgirl blush. Outfits that—and I'm going to be very careful with my words here—made them look like miniature versions of something no child should ever be asked to embody.I'm a dad of six-year-old twin girls. Progressive as hell. No filter. Judge-free zone, usually. But when I looked over at two bodyguards watching that runway and saw something in their eyes that made my skin crawl? When a 62-year-old photographer from Brooklyn—a woman who's probably seen everything—put down her camera and whispered, "This feels like child trafficking"?That's not fashion. That's not art. That's exploitation wrapped in sequins and sold as empowerment.The Uncomfortable Truth About Dreams and DangerHere's what kills me: I don't blame the kids. They're kids. I don't even fully blame the moms, sitting there with stars in their eyes, dreaming of their daughters' names in lights. We all want our children to shine. But there's a difference between letting your child shine and putting them on display like that.The designer—whose name I won't give the dignity of printing—chose to put those children on that runway in that way. In an industry already riddled with predators and problems, she chose to serve up vulnerability on a silver platter and call it fashion.One grandmother I interviewed put it perfectly: "I'm happy and I'm a little scared... I think about the times we're in and what could happen." She was talking about her granddaughter doing regular pageants, fully clothed, age-appropriate. Imagine how the parents of those Rhinestone Sugar girls should feel.What Fashion Week Should BeFashion Week should be about innovation, not exploitation. It should be about Brianna from Bri Romi, marketing her brand through social media and refusing to believe she needs traditional runways to be successful. It should be about models like Anya Patel, whose mom is in the front row being her "biggest fan," fixing her hair and taking pictures. It should be about designers who understand that making people feel something doesn't mean making them feel sick.The truth is, for all its pretension and $25 cocktails, Fashion Week at its best is about dreams taking shape. It's about self-taught designers getting their shot. It's about models from Brazil and Boston and Alabama converging on Sony Hall to walk for visibility, not pay, because they believe in something bigger.The VerdictRunway 7 did something beautiful. They created a space where emerging designers could show their work, where models could build their portfolios, where fashion felt accessible and exciting. They treated people like humans. They made magic happen on a budget and determination.But they also hosted Rhinestone Sugar Couture. And that's a stain that no amount of sequins can cover.Fashion Week is supposed to be the dream factory, the place where art meets commerce meets culture. When it works, it's transcendent. When it fails, it fails spectacularly. And when it crosses the line from fashion into exploitation?That's when we need to stop clapping and start calling it out.Because those little girls deserved better. We all did.
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Joseph Tito
Bitch Fest
Bitch Fest: Unfiltered. Unapologetic. Unbothered.
LETTER 1Dear Bitch Fest,I'm 34, recently divorced, and my ex-husband is already engaged to someone he met three months ago. Meanwhile, I'm over here trying to figure out how to use dating apps without wanting to throw my phone into traffic. Everyone keeps telling me I should "get back out there" and "you're so strong," but honestly? I feel like a garbage person most days. How do I not hate myself for taking longer to bounce back than apparently everyone else on the planet?—Slow & Steady Loses the RaceDear Slow & Steady,First off, fuck everyone who's clocking your healing timeline like you're running a marathon they have money on. Your ex-husband didn't "bounce back"—he ricocheted directly into another person's life because sitting alone with his feelings was scarier than a horror movie marathon. That's not recovery; that's emotional whiplash with a ring attached.Here's what nobody tells you about divorce: there's no prize for speed-healing. You're not "losing" because you need more than a season to figure out who you are without someone else's dirty socks on your bedroom floor. You're being a goddamn adult about it.Let me paint you a picture of what's actually happening here. While you're doing the hard work of untangling years of shared everything and figuring out which version of yourself exists without his commentary, he's playing house with someone new. That's not strength—that's avoidance dressed up in wedding planning. He's using this poor woman as a human band-aid, and honestly? I feel sorry for her.Meanwhile, you're over here having actual feelings about the end of something that mattered. You're grieving not just the relationship, but the future you thought you were building and the comfort of knowing someone's coffee order by heart. That's not weakness—that's being human with a capital H.Here's what I want you to do: take all that energy you're spending on feeling like a "garbage person" and redirect it toward something that actually matters. Learn to cook that one dish you always wanted to try. Buy yourself flowers on a Tuesday for no reason other than you're still breathing. The goal isn't to become someone new—it's to remember who you were before you became half of a "we."Those dating apps? They'll still be there when you're ready to swipe through the wasteland of men whose entire personality is "I love The Office." Right now, your job is to remember that you're a whole person, not half of something broken. And for the love of all that's holy, stop measuring your progress against someone who clearly makes decisions the way a toddler picks breakfast cereal. You're not slow—you're thorough. There's a difference.LETTER 2Dear Bitch Fest,My best friend of 15 years has become completely obsessed with wellness culture. She won't shut up about her morning routine, her supplements, her "toxic" job (which pays well and she actually likes), and how I need to "align my energy." Last week she tried to sell me a $300 course on "feminine leadership" and got genuinely offended when I said no. I miss my friend, but I don't know how to talk to this MLM wellness robot she's become. Help?—Missing My Actual FriendDear Missing,Your friend didn't find wellness—she found a very expensive way to avoid her actual problems. That $300 course? It's not about feminine leadership; it's about buying a sense of purpose when you're too scared to examine why you feel empty.Here's the thing about wellness culture: it's designed to make you feel like you're constantly failing at being human. Your friend has found a community that tells her she's "awakened" while everyone else is "asleep," which is both incredibly seductive and incredibly isolating. She's not trying to hurt you—she's trying to save you from the same existential dread that's eating her alive.You have two choices: set boundaries harder than a prison wall, or have one brutally honest conversation about what's really going on in her life. Try this: "I love you, but I need you to hear me. I don't want to buy anything, join anything, or optimize anything. I just want my friend back. Can we hang out without talking about your morning routine?"If she can't do that, then you're grieving someone who's still alive, and that's its own kind of hell. But sometimes people need to get lost in the wellness sauce before they find their way back to being human.LETTER 3Dear Bitch Fest,I'm a 28-year-old woman who just started a new job at a company I actually love. The problem? My manager is a woman in her 40s who seems to hate me for no reason. She's supportive of everyone else on the team, but with me, she's cold, dismissive, and finds fault with everything I do. I've tried being extra friendly, staying late, bringing coffee—nothing works. I'm starting to think she just doesn't like young women, but I don't know how to handle this without looking like I'm playing the victim. What do I do?—Trying Too HardDear Trying,Stop tap-dancing for someone who's already decided not to clap. You're not imagining this, and you're not being dramatic. Some women absolutely do hate other women, especially younger ones, and it's usually because they're projecting their own insecurities about aging, relevance, or missed opportunities onto your unsuspecting face.Here's what you're going to do: document everything. Every dismissive comment, every impossible deadline, every time she treats you differently than your colleagues. Keep it factual, keep it dated, and keep it detailed. You're not playing victim—you're collecting evidence.Then stop trying to win her over. Seriously. No more coffee runs, no more staying late to prove your worth, no more performing the "cool, agreeable girl" routine. Do your job well, be professional, and let her weirdness be her problem, not yours.If it gets worse, you have options: HR, her boss, or finding a new team within the company. But first, try showing up as yourself instead of as a people-pleasing machine. Sometimes the only way to deal with a bully is to stop giving them the reaction they're looking for.LETTER 4Dear Bitch Fest,Okay, so I don't have a problem, but I can't fucking stand when people put their phone on speaker or FaceTime in public. It bugs the shit out of me. I don't care to hear about other people's conversations. People need to be more considerate of others around them. No, I'm not a Karen, but fuck, I feel like I'm getting there... lol—Almost KarenDear Almost Karen,Welcome to the club, baby. Population: everyone who's ever been trapped on public transport listening to someone's entire family drama unfold at maximum volume. You're not becoming a Karen—you're becoming someone with boundaries, and there's a difference.Here's the thing: people who blast their personal business in public spaces are the same people who think the world is their living room. They genuinely don't understand that the rest of us didn't sign up to be extras in their life documentary. It's not malicious; it's just breathtakingly self-absorbed.The real tragedy? These phone-blasters have somehow convinced themselves they're being "authentic" and "real" by turning every grocery store aisle into their personal therapy session. Meanwhile, you're standing there trying to pick out yogurt while learning intimate details about someone's UTI symptoms.You have three options: invest in noise-canceling headphones and join the rest of us in our protective bubbles, master the art of the pointed stare (works about 20% of the time), or embrace your inner petty and start loudly commenting on their conversation like you're providing live commentary. "Ooh, she should definitely dump him!"Just remember: wanting basic courtesy in shared spaces doesn't make you a Karen. It makes you someone who understands that civilization is held together by the thin thread of people not being complete assholes to each other.LETTER 5Dear Bitch Fest,I'm 29 and just found out I'm pregnant with my first kid. I'm excited, but I'm also terrified about what this means for my career. I work in marketing at a tech startup, and while they talk a big game about "work-life balance," I've watched two other women basically disappear after having babies. One got "restructured" out during her mat leave, and the other came back to find her responsibilities had been "redistributed." My manager keeps making jokes about how I'll "probably want to take it easy now" and asking if I'm "still committed to the big projects." I haven't even told them my due date yet. How do I protect myself without looking like I'm expecting special treatment?—Pregnant and ParanoidDear Pregnant and Paranoid,Welcome to the fucked-up world of pregnancy discrimination, where companies hang motivational posters about "supporting working mothers" while quietly pushing pregnant women toward the exit. Your paranoia isn't paranoia—it's pattern recognition, and you're absolutely right to be worried.First, start documenting everything immediately. Every "joke" about taking it easy, every comment about your commitment, every meeting you suddenly stop getting invited to. Keep a paper trail that would make a lawyer weep with joy. Email yourself summaries of conversations, save texts, screenshot everything. You're not being dramatic—you're being smart.Here's what your manager's "jokes" actually are: illegal interview questions disguised as casual conversation. They're fishing for information about your plans while pretending to be supportive. Don't take the bait. When they ask about your commitment to projects, respond with something like, "I'm fully committed to delivering excellent work, just like I always have." Keep it professional and give them nothing to twist later.The unfortunate reality is that pregnancy discrimination is rampant, especially in tech startups that love to talk about disruption but can't figure out basic human decency. Your company's track record speaks louder than their diversity statements. But here's the thing: knowledge is power, and you now know exactly what you're dealing with.Talk to an employment lawyer now, not after something goes wrong. Many will give you a free consultation to understand your rights and options. Know your provincial employment standards inside and out. Connect with other working mothers in your industry—they've navigated this bullshit before and can be invaluable allies.And remember: you're not asking for special treatment by expecting not to be discriminated against. You're asking for basic human rights and legal protections. The fact that this feels revolutionary says everything about how broken the system is, not about your expectations.A Note from the EditorThe inbox is overflowing with your workplace nightmares, family drama, dating disasters, and general life chaos, and honestly? I'm here for all of it. Your willingness to share the real, unfiltered truth about your lives is what makes this column worth reading. Before we go any further, let me be crystal clear: I am not a therapist, counselor, or any kind of licensed mental health professional. My advice should be taken with a massive grain of salt and the understanding that what works for one person's dumpster fire might not work for yours. If you're dealing with serious mental health issues or abuse, please seek help from qualified professionals who actually know what they're talking about.What I can offer is perspective, solidarity, and the occasional reality check delivered with zero filter. Think of this as advice from your most brutally honest friend—the one who loves you enough to tell you when you're being ridiculous and supports you enough to help you burn it all down when necessary. If you have something to bitch about, contact us at info@jeopublishing.com.
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Joseph Tito
Spotlight
From Rock Bottom to Sephora Shelves: How Jenn Harper Turned Sobriety Into an Indigenous Beauty Revolution
"I'm proudly a recovered alcoholic and I'm no longer going to feel ashamed. Shame will kill us - it almost killed me."Jenn Harper had been selling seafood for over a decade when three little Indigenous girls covered in lip gloss changed everything. The dream came in January 2015, just two months into her sobriety—brown skin, rosy cheeks, giggling and laughing while covered in colorful gloss. When she woke up, she wrote down what would become the business plan for Cheekbone Beauty."It was so real to me that building a cosmetics company was the next thing on my path," Harper reflects. "It's crazy when I think about it now—I'm embarrassed about how much I didn't know about this industry."What she didn't know could fill a warehouse: product development, supply chains, ingredients, retail merchandising, the crushing competitiveness of beauty. What she did know was this: a brand representing Indigenous people deserved to exist in the world.Ten years later, that naive conviction has built something unprecedented—the first B Corp certified Indigenous beauty brand to hit Sephora shelves, a company that's donated over $250,000 to Indigenous communities, and a new category Harper calls "Indigenous Beauty" that puts sustainability and cultural values at its core.But the real revolution? How Harper transformed the same addictive patterns that nearly destroyed her life into the obsessive focus that built an empire.When Shame Nearly Killed Her"I'm proudly a recovered alcoholic, and I'm no longer going to feel ashamed," Harper says with the directness that's become her trademark. "Shame will kill us—it almost killed me."Harper's battle with alcoholism lasted years, marked by rehab attempts, relapses, and a marriage hanging by a thread. In 2014, her husband delivered an ultimatum: get sober or he was leaving. It was the first time in their marriage he'd drawn that line."I had this moment of surrender. I had to believe truly that I could get well," she explains. The timing wasn't coincidental—2015 was also when Canada's Truth and Reconciliation Commission released its report on residential schools, finally giving Harper language for the generational trauma that had shaped her family."I used to believe I was just this person who comes from a completely dysfunctional family—we're just screwed up people," she admits. "Then I learned that this was systematically designed to take down a culture."Her grandmother had been taken from their community at six years old, forced into residential school until sixteen, beaten for speaking their language. Suddenly, Harper's family dysfunction had context—and a path to healing.Replacing One Addiction With AnotherTraditional recovery wisdom warns against substituting addictions, but Harper had a different plan. "I became obsessed with building this business, and maybe as an addict with an addict's brain, I'll never be fully healed from that in this life. But how can I use that power of obsession for doing something good versus destroying my life?"She admits the approach isn't typical AA advice, but it worked. Harper channeled her addictive patterns into something constructive: reading over a hundred books on entrepreneurship and Indigenous culture, diving deep into formulations and supply chains, obsessing over every detail of building a sustainable beauty company."That you can climb any mountain and get to the top," Harper says when asked what sobriety taught her about business. "You really can't see it unless you can see it—that line is so important for people from BIPOC communities. If you didn't see yourself represented out there, how are you supposed to think you can do those things?"Building Indigenous Beauty From NothingWhat Harper calls "Indigenous Beauty" isn't just marketing—it's a fundamental reimagining of how beauty products should be made. Where Korean beauty focuses on skincare and French beauty means perfume and red lipstick, Indigenous beauty centers sustainability and connection to the earth."Indigenous people have truly lived and breathed sustainability since the beginning of time," Harper explains. "We want to add that into how we make and create our products."At Cheekbone, that means formulas that actually biodegrade back into ecosystems, sustainably sourced packaging, and transparencyabout every ingredient. Harper spent years studying formulations to replace conventional ingredients with biodegradable alternatives—swapping propylene glycol for propendol, using only post-consumer recycled plastic, creating products that can serve multiple purposes."The truth is, true sustainability means we buy nothing and use what we have," Harper acknowledges. "We're still a consumer-based business. But can we do it so that the choice someone's making is a better choice they can feel good about?"The Cost of RepresentationHarper's drive for visibility became even more urgent after losing her brother BJ to suicide. "When you lose someone to suicide, you really spend a lot of time thinking about the what-ifs," she says quietly. "What I learned from my brother is that he really felt represented in these last few years. He would send me messages about Indigenous people on red carpets or athletes coming up."Those messages became proof of representation's power—and its absence's danger. Harper knows the statistics: Indigenous communities face suicide rates far above national averages, often linked to disconnection and lack of belonging."You really can't be it unless you can see it," Harper repeats. "For me, being able to represent our communities and help them see that entrepreneurship is an option—if I can figure it out and I wasn't a great student, I didn't have a university degree—if I can do this, they can too."Revolution, Not ActivismHarper's approach to change differs from traditional activism. "I feel like going and yelling at someone with a sign is never going to change their heart," she explains. "We need activists for many things, but I believe the way I love to connect with people is: can we change people's hearts?"Instead of protests, Harper builds. Cheekbone's scholarship fund has deployed 30 scholarships since 2021. Two percent of all revenue goes to Indigenous education initiatives year-round, with special Orange Shirt Day campaigns raising additional funds."We use the system," Harper says of their Orange Shirt Day strategy. "People arethinking about those things on that day, so of course we're using it. The algorithm of the world works on days now—if you're not speaking to the big things happening, no one cares because no one's going to see it."The approach extends to retail partnerships. When Sephora committed to Harper's "Glossed Over" campaign—featuring lip glosses named "Luscious Lead" and "E. Coli Kiss" to highlight water crises in Indigenous communities—it gave profits from Cheekbone sales to water treatment organizations."Sephora is really great—they take risks in that way," Harper notes. "They're truly the heroes in that story because they used their platform, and that's not easy to do on a bigger scale."The Real Beauty IndustryHarper envisions an industry transformation that goes beyond Indigenous representation. "Real people, no more editorial stuff," she says when asked what would make beauty actually beautiful. "We deserve to see real people wearing the products with real skin imperfections, acne, textured skin, hair on their face—let's just be real about it."It's a radical vision in an industry built on manufactured insecurity, but Harper's betting consumers are ready. As the first B Corp certified cosmetic brand in Sephora, Cheekbone legally prioritizes people and planet over profit—paying living wages, providing mental health benefits, and taking company-wide mental health weeks."Everyone at Cheekbone makes over a living wage for the area of the world they live in," Harper explains. "We take a whole week off every summer as an entire business so that it's a real mental health break for the entire company."What Her Grandmother Would ThinkWhen asked what her grandmother would think of seeing Cheekbone in Sephora, Harper pauses. "I think she would be proud. We're a humble group of people, a humble nation. We don't do the bragging thing—it's cultural. But there would be a lot of joy and happiness because I'm her granddaughter."That humility runs through everything Harper builds. Despite Cheekbone's success—Sephora shelves, B Corp certification, six-figure donations—she insists they're just getting started."I literally feel like we're just getting started," she says of the ten-year journey. "Over the last two years is finally when I feel like we've built something that's going to have value and matter."The Revolution ContinuesHarper's vision extends beyond Cheekbone to building an Indigenous beauty conglomerate—acquiring skincare brands, hair care lines, creating an entire ecosystem centered on Indigenous values and sustainable practices.“Cheekbone pioneered a category we call Indigenous Beauty," she explains. "What we intend to do is build this with that long view in mind."For women watching Harper's journey—especially those with their own healing to do—her message is clear: "I am no longer going to feel ashamed. If we've made past mistakes, big ones or small ones, you have to remove that shame part of it. Anyone can turn their lives around at any given moment."It's advice born from experience, spoken by someone who turned rock bottom into revolutionary business, addiction into empire-building, and personal healing into community transformation."If your heart's in something, there's nothing that can stop you from reaching that goal," Harper concludes. "I have regrets, many, many regrets. But shame will kill us. And I refuse to let shame win."Harper's story represents a new generation of Indigenous entrepreneurs building businesses that honor their heritage while challenging industry standards. As Orange Shirt Day approaches this September, her work reminds us that real reconciliation happens not through performative gestures, but through sustained action, authentic representation, and the radical act of building something beautiful from the ground up.When Jenn Harper talks about changing hearts instead of holding signs, she's describing a partnership that puts real money behind Indigenous education. For four years, Cheekbone Beauty has worked with Indspire, Canada's largest Indigenous-led registered charity, transforming lip gloss sales into life-changing scholarships."They're the one that we do our scholarship fund in collaboration with," Harper explains. "They're a not-for-profit, we're a for-profit business, so we get them to do all of our scholarship fund work."The partnership makes perfect sense: Harper brings platform and profits, while Indspire brings three decades of experience. Since 1996, Indspire has distributed over $200 million in scholarships to more than 54,000 Indigenous students across Canada.The collaboration has deployed 30 scholarships since 2021, with Cheekbone contributing 2% of all revenue year-round to their "For Future Generations Scholarship Fund." During Orange Shirt Day campaigns, that jumps to 100% of profits after operational costs."This year will be the fourth year," Harper notes. "The people at Cheekbone love their jobs because everything we do is about supporting and giving back to the community."What makes this powerful isn't just money—it's visibility. Harper's Orange Shirt Day campaigns educate consumers about funding gaps, systemic barriers, and why Indigenous education matters. Her customers learn while they shop."Education is powerful," Harper emphasizes. "Whatever path a young person can choose, it's going to help."Indspire's approach aligns with Harper's philosophy. Rather than charity creating dependency, they provide tools for self-determination. Scholarships support everything from trades programs to PhD studies, recognizing that Indigenous communities need leaders in every field.Harper's story—building a multi-million dollar company without a university degree—proves success comes in many forms. But systemic change requires Indigenous people in boardrooms, courtrooms, research labs, and government offices."Meeting people that have been impacted—they're a beautiful organization, and people should be supporting them in every which way they can," Harper says.The partnership creates a feedback loop: Cheekbone's success generates scholarship funding, which creates Indigenous graduates, who become role models for the next generation—the representation Harper wishes she'd had growing up ashamed of her identity.This isn't charity for charity's sake. Harper sees education funding as business strategy, community building, and cultural preservation. Every scholarship recipient represents potential future leadership and entrepreneurship."It's all about what are we doing here for the next generations," Harper explains. "That's part of our complete ethos as a brand."As Cheekbone grows into an Indigenous beauty conglomerate, the Indspire partnership ensures success lifts the entire community. It's capitalism with conscience, business as resistance, and proof that revolution can happen one scholarship at a time.
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