Teachers! Writers! New speakers of English—or any other language! For three days only—February 13, 14, and 15—the Kindle version of Accidental Poetry: Improve Your English Through Creative Writing by Lisa Lieberman Doctor can be downloaded for free on Amazon.com.

I cherish my girlfriends - they are by me through travel, kids, life's ups and downs - and I am by them, too. So it was with great pleasure that I read a new book that celebrates friendship, entitled You're the Best. Written by the Satellite Sisters, who have a radio show/podcast and a zillion listeners and fans, this book is a gem. If you're looking for a gift for your besties, THIS IS IT. 

Let’s be honest – a book with the title How to Live an Awesome Life is a no-brainer, as who doesn’t want an awesome life? But let’s delve a bit deeper, and see why you need this book, and what author Polly Campbell means by living an awesome life.

It’s true: everyone loves Istanbul. Those that have been can’t wait to go back, again and again. They tell their friends (like I am always telling you!), and more and more people head to Istanbul first, and then explore other areas of this remarkable country. But what would it be like to actually live there? 

Every so often, a book comes along that beautifully, powerfully reminds you of humanity. One such book is the first in a series (YAY!), entitled Untamed. Written by Madeline Dyer, this YA novel takes a look at a world that is changed - and who the changemakers are. From the start of Untamed, you're pulled into the arc of the story, as if one of the family. Then (and make note of this, so you plan for it) you won't be able to put the book down. Meals? Who needs them! Sleep? Ditto!

There are a few things that Michiganders know, growing up. One is the beauty of a Michigan winter (good thing, because it is very snowy and cold!). Second is the incredible landscape we live in, from beaches to mountains, city to rural, and even a few islands thrown in. Another is our strong work ethic – arising from our northern European ancestors, and strengthened through winter and landscape. We honor this work ethic here, in a variety of ways.

Writers and seekers of place, there's a great new resource for us! Linda Lappin has penned a new book, called The Soul of Place: A Creative Writing Workbook, Ideas and Exercises for Conjuring the Genius Loci. And let me tell you, this is a book full of inspiration, guidance, and a great deal of thought. It will change your writing!

This is the most beautiful book I have ever read. It’s at once a memoir, an ode to favorite literature, a glimpse into teaching – and writing. Joelle Renstrom’s new book, Closing the book: Travels in Life, Loss, and Literature, is a work of art.