100 Things to Do in Michigan Before You Die, written by travel writer extraordinaire Kath Usitalo (herself a Michigander), is the latest book in a series we absolutely love from Reedy Press.

They are must-reads for any travel, culture, and food lover.

Achieving work / life balance is commonly a goal most of us are told to strive towards. Like climbing a mountain, once on the top, a sense of accomplishment, possibly even fulfillment, awaits. Certainly, the concept of “balance” is welcoming and conjures up a picture of the harmony that exists when both sides of the scale are perfectly even and almost ethereal.

But, how long will that last? 

What does it mean to delve deeply into your life to write a novel? How do you even start? How does an author write deep, diverse characters? 

Such were the questions that AJ Frazier worked through to write his new novel, Mariel. 

He answered them, and then some, in this fascinating thriller that encompasses extraordinarily complex themes in a new and interesting way.

There is so much to discover in Paris that a lifetime isn't enough. And what to do, when we are far away and planning (or dreaming about) a trip? What to see, do, eat, buy? We need help (and inspiration).

Enter the most BEAUTIFUL and inspiring new book: Paris Shopfronts, illustrated by Joel Holland, words by Vivian Song, foreword by Sarah Andelman. 

I have an extraordinarily important, loving book to share with you today. This Sure Thing, written by Sarah Mayfield and illustrated by Dennis Auth, relates the story of grief and love in a family. The younger brother has passed away, and the older brother and family find ways to cope with grief, adjustment, and continuing living with such love.

I've got such an interesting, important biography to share with you today. Women's Crusader: Catharine Beecher's Untold Story, by R. Lee Wilson, is an insightful look into the life of a woman I didn't even know existed.

Once I started reading, though, I was so very grateful that Wilson has brought Beecher to life for us. Her story is fascinating; Wilson's deep dive into primary source materials is extraordinary. This is a book about women's rights, women's education, and a very personal life and love story.

"Mindfulness is paying attention to the present moment with curiosity and kindness" - Mindful with Me

I'm so happy to share a new book with you today: Mindful with Me: Connecting with Your Child Through Daily Mindfulness, written by Sarah Dennehy, M.Ed, illustrated by Natalie Garber Martin, and published by The Collective Book Studio.