I have the (the!!!) most beautiful book sitting on my desk. It’s about Paris (naturally), and is a completely new look at an ancient, much photographed city – through its bridges, glowing, at night.

Community building must become the heart of any school improvement.
~Thomas Sergiovanni

Note: Revolutionary Ride is Lois Pryce's third book, about her travels in Iran.

If I were to dance these words, I would dance the drops of rain falling on parched earth. 

Garn Press is pleased to announce the release of Every Least Sparrow, by Carolyn Walker. Walker’s memoir tells the story of her daughter, Jennifer, who has Rubinstein-Taybi Syndrome, a rare disorder that affects not only her appearance, but nearly every one of her body functions, as well as her IQ. 

Ireland - there's a reason why this small island nation is on everyone's travel list. It's gorgeously green, full of history and art and culture, and boasts world-renowned drink (Guinness, looking at you!) and delicious food. There's also the Irish people, known for their hospitality and kindness.

You know we're always digging into the backstory of what people create - it's one of the best parts of publishing this website. I love seeing the inspiration, drive, and focus of writers and musicians. Without further ado, here are our best recommendations for books and music we've reviewed in 2016 - with interviews!

Do you love your fiction to be intercultural, full of travel and learning about new things and cultures? Me, too. One such read is a new book by Katherine Reay, entitled A Portrait of Emily Price. It's a book about finding yourself, in more ways than one. It's about family, and doing what you love (and finding out what you love, which is a whole different ball game), and intercultural adjustment, and love, and moving to another country, and finding a new family. Here's the truth: I couldn't put it down.

I know you, dear wandering educators. I know you’re always on the lookout for bookshops while you travel (because, well, BOOKS).

“When every piece falls into place, it’s like a dance, a delicate but powerful balancing act. The art of holding on and letting go at the same time.”

Such is the beautiful writing in the winner of Elephant Rock Books’ 2016 Sheehan YA Book Prize, The Art of Holding On and Letting Go, by Kristin Lenz. A fellow Michigander, Lenz has written a powerful story of family, finding yourself, and growing up.