Dames Handsome Brings You the Fairy Knights

Dames Handsome Brings You the Fairy Knights

If you’re a parent or teacher of middle graders, you’d know how challenging it is to get them to read. Equally difficult is finding books that can entertain and inspire kids to grow into empathetic human beings. We met with an author who writes stories that kids love reading to not only have fun but to learn from. Dames Handsome is a father, teacher, and excellent author of the most-loved book series, the Fairy Knights. Here’s Dame’s story in his own words.

Hi Dames, how does one come up with such a cool name as Dames Handsome?

From my students! Here in Korea teachers are addressed by their last name and then the word teacher. My actual last name sounds a lot like Handsome so they started to call me Handsome Teacher. And then the Dames part is an old high school nickname so when it came to me making my pen name I found that really it had already been made and it was just waiting for me to pull out and dust off to be made official.

Why did you decide to write children’s books? 

I didn’t haha. All of this started when I sat down with my wife and son to play a role-playing game that I’d made. It was an awesome time and afterward, I realized that I wanted to remember it all forever. So I wrote it all down. And then after it was down I decided to make a story out of it for my son. I adjusted this and that to make it into a real kids’ story. One that I also torqued to teach him a lesson, as all good kids stories do. I read it to him and he loved it. Then it sat on my computer for months. I shared it with some people here and there and they loved it as well. So, finally, I decided that I should “make it real” and publish it. And so it all began.

How did Fairy Knights come to life? 

When I asked my friend Warwick, who teaches people how to be Kindergarten Teachers, to read it and how much it would cost me for him to make a cover for me. He read it and got back to me and asked if he could make pictures for the inside as well. I really can’t imagine the series without him. Our partnership really makes these books snap and I’m so happy to be working together.

What are the unique “superpowers” each of the Fairy Knights possess?

I’ll start with everyone’s favorite, Hamster Rick. He’s a hamster pet that my son named after one of his teddy animals. But rather than being all fat and round like most hamsters, he is super strong and he is incredibly chiseled. A handsome hunk of hamster.

The viewpoint of the series so far has come from Ching Goo and his school’s specialty is changing shapes. Depending on how much Magic Mana he uses, he can become about anything he can imagine. And he has a few more magic tricks up his sleeve as well. He can make himself travel very quickly, he can become super strong, he can make people believe that he is famous, and he can be very lucky. He has to be careful, though, because all of those spells cost mana and if he runs out he can’t cast any more magic for the rest of the day.

And of course, we have Oma Bell, the responsible voice of reason. She is an arcane spellcaster which means she can do powerful spells if given enough time to cast them. But more often she uses her fairy dust to create small but immediate magical effects. She can fly and she also has a mean right hook so you don’t want to mess with her. She has some more spells as well that are more specialized. Her super-smart spell makes her twice as intelligent and she can use magic to become about the cutest kid you’ve ever seen or talked to.

How have Ching Goo, Oma Bell, and Hamster Rick grown from one book to another?

At the very start of the series, Ching and Oma were just besties who liked to hang out, and Rick was Ching’s familiar, an animal pet that bonds with their owner to become something very special. But by the time the fourth book has come, we see that Rick has become a full-fledged hero in his own right and is even enrolled at Boogie Elementary School. Oma and Ching have gone through a lot together and Ching has become more mature, responsible, and kind. He has overcome the fear of being no-good, the complexities of jealousy in friendship, and he has more realistic expectations of himself and his friends. He is no longer quite so silly and headstrong. And Oma has let herself loosen up a bit. She has learned that while her ideas and plans may be brilliant, they are always better as a team. It is actually a lot of fun to chart out their lives as they go from book to book, and yet a little sad at the same time because they grow alongside my son, and each little success and every little bit of maturation means he himself is getting that much older and wiser, and that much less of my little baby boy. 

Could you share one heart-warming comment you received from a reader recently?

A father told me that his daughter was all excited about the series and kept talking about how she was going to be super good so she could level up and be a hero. That really made me laugh and smile.

What is the one lesson you’d like your little readers to learn from the Fairy Knights books?

That it is okay and natural to feel anxious, scared, and not as good as the others. And that everyone else feels that same sense of doubt and unworthiness. It is a natural part of growing up and it is okay to feel it and to talk to people about it.

Rapid Fire time! Answer the following questions with the first thing that comes to your mind. 

Dames Handsome

Morning person or night owl

Night owl

Kindle or audiobook

Kindle

Panda or koala

Panda

A preferred writing snack

Sour gummies

Your favorite movie of all times

Free Guy

Do you still have your favorite book from childhood? 

I don’t but that’s because it wore through!

What’s next?

Warwick has told me that the next one needs to be something special and different. So we are working on an anthology of 5 stories told by different characters within the series. But that won’t be out until at least January due to the Holidays.

Meet the Babe in the Woods: Yvonne Wakefield

Meet the Babe in the Woods: Yvonne Wakefield

We bet you have a dream, a wish, or a goal of being off in your secluded cabin in the woods. Our guess, you want to escape the city or even, seeking for inspiration from nature — to create the best work of your life. Whatever your reason, you’ve got to hear Yvonne Wakefield’s story of building her cabin and her life one log at a time. Who knows, you might find the motivation you were looking for in this interview or her books from the Babe in the Woods series. So, here it is.

Hi Yvonne, when did you decide you needed to tell your story as the Babe in the Woods?

I’d previously published some really early, very raw, scattershot journal material and wanted to tell the story about my relationship with the cabin and living there alone.  After publishing “Suitcase Filled with Nails: Lessons Learned from Teaching Art in Kuwait,” the book I wrote about working as a professor in the Middle East teaching art to university-aged Muslim women, I decided to continue on a book about my life at the cabin.

What can your readers expect to find in the first book from the Babe in the Woods series?

The story of a young, naive but determined orphan girl who pushes herself to learn skills to rebuild a home she lost.  In the process, she builds connections with the locals and heals from a sorry past.

Babe in the Woods: Self Portrait was released recently. What part of your journey does it cover?

Self Portrait takes up where the first book leaves off.  It resumes my story of living alone in a wilderness log cabin. But it is also the story of coming and going there over several summers that includes my development as an artist, log cabin builder, and unfortunately my experience with rouge bears.

Why did you choose to build your cabin on an Oregon mountainside?

In high school history class, I learned about the Oregon Trail.  When I came of age and was ready to set out on my venture I headed to Oregon, not knowing if this was the spot on the map where I’d eventually settle.

You don’t seem to miss the city. But in the beginning, what were some things that you missed or wished you had access to?

I still don’t miss the city.  What I miss still, I was at the cabin last weekend during snow and rainstorm, is a good road, Other than that, I have everything I need there.  It just takes a lot longer to get hot water and heat if you first have to fall a tree, buck, and split it to build a stove fire.  Everything is the same as it was when I moved into the cabin as a teenager.   The same kerosene lamps provide light, the same stove heats the interior and all my original tools hang on nails below the porch. I still draw buckets of water from the creek. I did build a bathhouse that is really the only luxury addition.

Is there a fascinating bear-related story you’d like to share here?

One summer when I returned, I discovered bears had gotten into all of my food stores below the cabin.  These weren’t wild bears, but habituated ones relocated into the wilderness above my cabin.  No matter how diligent I was about keeping my food under lock the bears continued to raid my cabin.  When I found myself between a sow and a cub, I had to make a big decision contrary to my philosophy of co-existence.

Being an artist, what’s the best part about having your studio in the forest?

Yvonne Wakefield

There are no electronic or telephonic distractions because there is no electricity or cell phone reception.  I don’t even have a radio.  On the contrary, I can’t extend oil painting sessions past sunset unless I’m working by full moonlight.  One snowy night I was finishing a watercolor painting inside the cabin and went to rinse my brushes in the sink and I noticed it wasn’t draining as usual.  I went back to finish the painting and during this time the gray water drain pipe had frozen.  I had to haul buckets from the creek heat the water and pour it in the sink until the pipe thawed.  If I’d had modern plumbing this would not have happened.

Let’s do a round of rapid-fire questions. Ready? 

Artist or writer

In my mind’s eye, I don’t distinguish between the two

Country or Folk music

Classical

Writing in the morning or late at night?

Morning

Your favorite book of all time…

The Living by Annie Dillard

One item from your “bucket” list you’d like to share…

I’ve never had a bucket list

One thing you can’t live without…

my little dogs

What’s your favorite holiday memory?

Before my parents died and Christmas was a time for family and celebration I got a red kick scooter.  I was five years old. Before I could use it on Christmas morning, I had to finish my breakfast.  I stuffed my mouth like a chipmunk, was excused from the table, hopped on my little scooter, and spit scrambled eggs in the gutter as I scooted down the sidewalk.

Tears of Change: Spiritual, Uplifting, and Unforgettable

Tears of Change: Spiritual, Uplifting, and Unforgettable

Sometimes your tears say it all! They express a moment of grief, a sense of relief, emotions so deep – that even words aren’t enough. But sometimes, tears can help you find a fresh start. “Tears of Change” by Debbie Monteggia takes you on that new journey. Explore what led her to express her thoughts and experiences through poetry.

Hi Debbie, how do you feel about your book journey so far?

My book journey continues to be encouraging and inspiring!  My interviews are very uplifting and engaging. It’s been exciting discovering new avenues for promoting my book and telling my story. I thoroughly enjoyed and continue to embrace all my interviews with the variety of radio/podcasts and talk show hosts. The feedback I’ve received from my book has been positive and rewarding. It pleases me when I hear how my poetry has helped my readers move through some of their own feelings and emotions.

What is the core purpose of your book?

Debbie Monteggia

To share my story and poetry with the world. Poetry speaks to us all in many ways. My book can be read for pleasure, contemplation, or self-reflection. My poetry touches all our emotions, joy, love, gratitude, and sorrow. I’m sure one can find themselves in one of my poems. We are all connected and share the same or similar feelings. My hope is that one or many of my poems will inspire my reader to take a leap into expressing their own emotions so they can reach a deeper place of love and gratitude within themselves. 

How did you come up with Tears of Change for your book?

My poetry originated from my tears of sadness and despair and moved me to write about my tears of joy, grace, gratitude, and love. The title portrays this transition, “Tears of Change.”

Since you are a designer by profession, did you help with designing the gorgeous book cover? What was your brief to them?

The cover layout was a collaborative design by family members and myself. My husband came up with the title ‘Tears of Change’ and my son came up with the symbolic tree. I created the remaining designs, river, background, mountains, etc. I submitted all these ideas to my cover design company, and they created a beautiful colorful cover. 

When did you first start writing poetry? 

 I have been writing poetry most of my life. My poetry journey began 25 years ago.  

Could you share one touching review or letter you received from one of your fans that made your day?

Available on Amazon

This book is a revelation. Spiritual, uplifting, and unforgettable.  Debbie has taken us gently, lovingly, and courageously by the hand to share poetry that represents her journey toward self-fulfillment and peace. The poetry spans many life passages, from friendship and children to loss and fear, all truthfully and beautifully rendered. I especially enjoyed the context of each of the poems; it was a window into her heart and soul as she expressed her emotions. I felt as if I were with her and experienced her joy and sorrow. The book opened to me how truth, pain and compassion can be transformative. I will not soon forget this book.

What is one of your favorite poems from the book? Could you share a few lines with us?

A Child’s World is one of my favorite poems.

I’m only a child please watch me grow

Teach me the things I need to know

My world is little I can’t yet see

My journey in life, my destiny

Guide me now when I am small

It’s these years that count the most of all…

Let’s do a round of rapid-fire questions. Ready? 

Inspirations on a walk or shower?

Walk

Writing in the morning or late at night?

Morning

Classical or country music?

Country

Interior Design or Writing

My passion is equal to both

Your favorite poet of all time

Emily Dickenson

What’s the last movie you watched?

Stillwater with Matt Damon

What’s the next project?

2nd edition of my book 

What to Expect in Moonlighting: An Oral History by Scott Ryan

What to Expect in Moonlighting: An Oral History by Scott Ryan

If you’re someone who devours new television shows, are the go-to person for recommendations among your friends, and want to hold your fame, you’ve got to read this. You’re about to earn some serious brownie points by being the first to know all about the 80s iconic show, Moonlighting. Here’s a little chat with pop culture storyteller and television historian Scott Ryan.

Hi Scott, your latest book, “Moonlighting: An Oral History,” still holds its position on the top 50 Television History & Criticism books on Amazon since its release. Congratulations!

How’s the overall response so far? 

It has been incredible. I have been getting emails almost every other day from fans of the series. I always put my email in the back of all my books and say that if you have a kind email to send, send it. I do not have interest in the mean ones. Most bookstores have not been carrying the book, so we need more stores to jump on the eighties bandwagon.

Why did you choose to write about Moonlighting?

 I have always been amazed that no one had ever written a book about it.  I have wanted to write this book for years. Finally, two years ago, Glenn Caron gave me his blessing and I ran with it.

Would you say this book is mainly for those who are fans of the show?

Well, you are asking the author. No author would say his book is for less people. But I honestly believe this book should be read by all television lovers. This will really explain to viewers how hard it is to create a piece of art. And how much harder it is to make a quality piece of art. I have had many interviewers tell me that they never saw an episode of the series, but they loved the book.

What can you share about “Moonlighting: An Oral History” that will resonate with today’s television viewers and potential readers?

I think they will get a look at how Moonlighting changed the way TV was made and produced. It is also a great reminder at how viewers want TV that challenges them. That making average TV should be thought of as the greatest crime. There is a really amazing story in this book. I was lucky to get to tell it.

Can you share some of your fanboy moments from your time meeting and interviewing some of Moonlighting’s cast/crew members? 

Look, I got to watch an episode of Moonlighting with Cybill Shepherd. We watched over zoom together. I will never forget that my entire life. Jay Daniel produced Roseanne, Moonlighting, Cybill and he is now one of my dear friends. I have been blessed to talk to the very  people that inspired me to be a writer. I will never get over how my life and their lives  intersected. This entire process has been a dream for me.

What’s the one thing you learned about Moonlighting that bowled you over?

That the network just let them spend as much money as they wanted. There was no one on set telling them to finish an episode, or cut a scene or anything. They were just left alone because the ratings were so good. I also finally figured out exactly how they filmed Season 4. I have never understood why they didn’t have Cybill and Bruce in scenes together, but they are in every episode. It just didn’t make sense. It took lots of interviews to piece together the filming sequences. But I think readers will love the answer to that question. I am not telling you, though. You’ll have to read the book.

Aside from Moonlighting, what are some of your favorite binge-able shows of all time? 

Well Twin Peaks and thirtysomething have always been my favorite. I also love anything by David E. Kelley. Right now, I love Hacks on HBO, Good Fight on Paramount + and Ted Lasso on Apple +, but my goodness, who can afford to buy all those platforms. Just forget it and read my book.

Ready for some rapid-fire questions? Here we go:

Morning person or a night owl 

Morning person (that kills me to say that now)

Television shows or movies 

TV all the way

Movie theatre or streaming at home

 Streaming, I don’t need to hear a stranger’s comments on the film. I am fine.

Popcorn or Nachos

 Nachos and piled so high they are messy.

Night Court or Family Ties

 WOW. This is an amazing question and a stumper. It is basically even, but I was so in love with Mallory, that FT has to win. But great question.

A preferred writing snack

 Grapes. I know that sounds weird, but I love to stop and start when I am writing. I adore getting up and getting something. So I love for it to be grapes. You write a few paragraphs, then you go to the fridge, get a grape and go back and sit down and then rinse and repeat.

What was the last movie you watched?

 Jackie Brown. Which will give you a hint at what I want my next book to be about. The Movies of Tarantino.

Solving Mysteries in Real-Life and Fiction: T L Bequette

Solving Mysteries in Real-Life and Fiction: T L Bequette

Hi T L Bequette, congrats on your first novel, “Good Lookin’: A Joe Turner Mystery.” We’re so excited to hear more about you and the book. Let’s get to it.

As a criminal defense attorney, your practice involves defending accused murderers. How did you shift gears and decide to write fiction?

I’ve always loved to write creatively. As an attorney, I have plenty of opportunities to write, but creativity is generally frowned upon. You can’t make up the law, after all. So, when I finally stopped making excuses and started writing, it was a wonderful feeling—like seeing an old friend for the first time in years.

How did Joe Turner start to take shape in your mind? When did you know you had to get the story out there? 

I’ve practiced criminal defense for nearly thirty years, so my job has given me quite a trove of real-life tales that are often crazier than fiction. Also, a significant part of the book follows the exploits of twin boys. As a father of teenage twins, I’ve gained some insight there as well. They would disagree, by the way

Book cover of Good Lookin' by T L Bequette
Available on Amazon

In “Good Lookin’: A Joe Turner Mystery,” how much of it would you say is fiction and how much of it is derived from real life? 

The protagonist, Joe Turner is a criminal defense attorney like me. When faced with defending a client who is actually innocent, he stresses out and drinks too much. Also, a bit like me, I suppose. Joe is also a smartass and very witty—like I would be if I could magically stop conversations and take lots of time to think of great lines.

If you weren’t a criminal defense attorney, would you still write a crime mystery? Do you want to explore other genres?

That’s a great question. I’ve thought about other genres, but I have so much material and stories yet to tell, I think mysteries will keep me busy for a while.

If you have a chance to partner with Netflix, who would you like cast for as Joe Turner? 

Kyle Chandler, I think. He’s likeable.

Besides the real-life observations, where do you draw your inspiration from?

In my genre, Louise Penny is a wonderful writer. Also, you can’t beat John Grisham for storytelling.

Without giving much away, can you think of the one scene that made you go, “Ah, this is perfect!” 

Is it okay to have two? The first involves an abusive bully. Spoiler alert, I suppose, but let’s just say I enjoyed writing the resolution of that part of the story. Also, there is one final twist in the very last line of the book. I think it’s cool.

T. L. Bequette

Here are some rapid-fire questions for you. Answer with the first thought that comes to your mind. Ready? Let’s go. 

Tea or Coffee

Coffee

‘Rear Window’ or ‘L.A. Confidential’

Rear Window

Jazz or Country Music

Country

Prefer writing in the morning or late at night

Early am

Video Game or Movie

Movie

What’s the one thing you learned when writing the book? 

That organization — keeping plot lines and characters straight — is an underrated part of writing.

Tell us one thing about yourself that we likely don’t know. 

I once worked in the largest prune dehydrator in the world.

Meet the Author of Harry Harambee’s Kenyan Sundowner

Meet the Author of Harry Harambee’s Kenyan Sundowner

Gerald Everett Jones’ latest book takes us across to the Sub-Saharan African Country of Kenya. The award-winning author effortlessly transforms his readers’ experience from being passive observers to find themselves thoroughly invested in this journey. Here’s what he shares about himself and his new book, “Harry Harambee’s Kenyan Sundowner.”

Hi Gerald, you tell us about your new book, “Harry Harambee’s Kenyan Sundowner”? 

A lonely widower from Los Angeles buys a tour package to East Africa on the promise of hookups and parties. What he finds instead are new reasons to live.

Aldo Barbieri, a slick Italian tour operator, convinces Harry to join a group of adventuresome “voluntourists.” In a resort town on the Indian Ocean, Harry doesn’t find the promised excitement with local ladies. But in the supermarket he meets Esther Mwemba, a demure widow who works as a bookkeeper. The attraction is strong and mutual, but Harry gets worried when he finds out that Esther and Aldo have a history. They introduce him to Victor Skebelsky, rumored to be the meanest man in town. Skebelsky has a plan to convert his grand colonial home and residential compound into a rehab center – as a tax dodge. The scheme calls for Harry to head up the charity. He could live like a wealthy diplomat and it won’t cost him a shilling!

Harry has to come to terms with questions at the heart of his character: Is corruption a fact of life everywhere? Is all love transactional?

Who would enjoy reading it the most? Why? 

Fans of literary fiction who aren’t locked into any particular genre. I believe the fascination of literary fiction is to get inside a flawed character who is forced to dig deep into his soul. He’s not necessarily someone worthy of admiration, but we may be impressed by his courage. We might see ourselves differently as a result. And as we follow him through the strory, we go through his painful discoveries without having to look too closely at ourselves in the process. But in the end, we know we all face the same questions and anxieties.

How do the characters from the book come alive? What makes them so appealing?

Harry sets out as a tourist, a passive observer. He watches the world from the backseat of an excursion vehicle. But then when he develops an emotional attachment and decides to stay in-country, he must begin to think like a resident, like a citizen. He must decide how much he is willing to become involved, how much he’s willing to commit. There’s bravery in his decision.

What are some of your cherished moments from your time in Kenya that may or may not have made their way in “Harry Harambee’s Kenyan Sundowner”?

Most of the time, my wife lived in Diani Beach, a small resort town on the white sands of the Indian Ocean. Some of my favorite times were Sunday afternoons at Forty Thieves Bar and Grill on the beach. It was a buffet for ten bucks. Almost everyone you knew in town dropped in at some time. There was a band playing, alternating American pop coverage with authentic South African rhythms. We all sat there, gossiping, eating, and drinking until the sun went down. And our two terriers amused themselves endlessly chasing crabs in the surf. (This scene isn’t in the book!)

If it is made into a movie, who do you think should play Harry Harambee’s character?

Christian Bale has proven he can play just about anybody, but think of him plumped up with thinning hair as he was to play Dick Cheney. But with more affability and heart. I describe Harry as a bit pudgy, something of a couch potato, but with a friendliness and charm. Then again, Jack Nicholson just the way he shows up these days?

Mystery-thrillers or literary fiction, what do you enjoy writing the most? Why?

I prefer to write literary fiction because there are no rules. Almost none at all. But I enjoy writing mystery-thrillers because after I get going, I let myself go and let the characters make the decisions. And the ending is always a surprise, to me and I hope to the readers.

What are you reading, watching, and loving? Any recommendations?

After I started writing the book, I realized its similarities of setting and expat intrigue with The Heart of the Matter by Graham Greene (set it Sierra Leone) and The Constant Gardener by John Le Carré (set in Kenya). I reread both of those recently, and the movie of Gardener is well done. There’s also a movie of the Greene story. It’s available to stream on Amazon and I intend to watch it for the first time soon.

Rapid Fire time! Answer the following questions with the first thing that comes to your mind.   

Orange juice or Coffee

Organic French Roast. At least two cups with soymilk first thing in the morning.

Writing in silence or with music

I’m a music lover – mostly classical and jazz, and especially opera. But if I listen while I’m writing my head gets jammed and it’s a distraction.

Kindle or Paperback 

Kindle especially when traveling. Paperbacks when making notes, especially for research. I love a paper book, but if I get one I have to gift it because I just don’t have the space to hold them all. That’s another reason for Kindle – a thousand books in your library in the cloud.

Podcast or Video 

When I’m recording a podcast in the studio, I love the sound of my voice in the headphones, and I relax. I enjoy doing video but I tend to be both animated and self-conscious at the same time.

One item from your “bucket” list you’d like to share

I’ve often thought of investing in an art gallery on Canyon Drive in Santa Fe. I’d work there part time, but never miss the parties on openings. I’m not sure my wife is ready to let me do this, though.

Favorite holiday destination

I lived in Paris on the Left Bank for a time as a student. Never bored going back. My French has gotten better. They now accuse me of being either Belgian or British. They know I’m not local! My wife Georja went to school in Rome, and that’s at least one place where I shut up and let her talk.

A favorite author you’d love to meet

I’d love to have a leisurely chat with Hypatia of Alexandria. And I’ll ask her what she thinks of the book I wrote about her. Most of her writings have been lost, so I’m sure the conversation would be revealing – particularly regarding who destroyed them and why.

A Look Inside Moonlighting

A Look Inside Moonlighting

The Gossip We Have All Been Waiting For

In Moonlighting: An Oral History, Scott Ryan investigates the underlying drama behind the show that pioneered network TV as we know it today. He first introduced his idea of this investigation to the creator, Glenn Gordon Caron, who was more than happy to give his blessing and reminisce about series. Then he corralled the rest of the writers, cast members, editors, and anyone else he could find. He made them the promise of writing this book with a balance between memories and facts, all to remember the beloved show that made pop culture history.

This ABC-TV series was the first successful comedy-drama of its time, featuring Cybill Shepherd as Maddie and Bruce Willis as David. It follows Maddie, an ex-model recently bankrupt, who is persuaded by David to run Blue Moon Investigations as co-partners. Everyone fell in love with their bickering and flirtatious interactions, anxiously waiting for them to give into the romance. When the episode finally came for them to consummate their relationship, audiences had already been waiting for two and a half years. This season 3 episode was the peak of the show and brought the highest ratings yet.

Ryan explains how this is where the mystery of Moonlighting’s downfall heightens. Each chapter follows a different point in time within the airing of the show. Ryan first sets the stage with a short blurb about the filming environment of the episode and then lets his interviewees takeover. By expertly organizing the detailed notes he took while speaking to them, he crafts an intriguing story. From cast members such as Cybill Shepherd and Allyce Beasley, to writers such as Glenn Gordon Caron and Jay Daniel, the only person missing is Bruce Willis. That being said, the remarks compiled from everyone else certainly create an unforgettable tale of Moonlighting.

For the first few seasons, the show received excellent ratings and had the full attention of both its co-stars. After the third season, things started to spin out of control. While many fans claim that the show went downhill after Maddie and David finally consummated their relationship, Ryan’s interviews prove otherwise. For example, Caron details how he made this plot decision before finding out that Cybill was going to take a year long absence from the show. At the same time, Bruce was whisked away to make Die Hard. To top it all off, when the couple finally reunited under Roger Director’s writing, ABC shut them down.

This compilation of interviews gives all the juicy details you never knew to look for, such as how both leads had doubles for a certain scene where Shepherd was pregnant with twins and Willis had a broken collarbone. The crew recounts many scenes and episodes that seem unbelievable to the point where they question if it had really happened. Ryan makes the distinction that he did not undergo critical analysis of the series, rather an investigation into its creative process. With his interpretation of the interviews and a sprinkle of relevant facts, he creates an oral history of Moonlighting that will not be soon forgotten. Pre-Order your copy of Moonlighting; an Oral History now.

Dr. Janet Brill’s Guide to Intermittent Fasting

Dr. Janet Brill’s Guide to Intermittent Fasting

Are you curious about Intermittent fasting and thinking about giving it a fair shot? Before you jump right in, grab your copy of “Intermittent Fasting for Dummies” by Dr. Janet Brill. So you know how it’s done and also what to expect as you adopt a new lifestyle.

Here’s what Dr. Janet Brill shared about her newly released book and personal experience with Intermittent Fasting as a way of life.

Dr. Janet Brill, how would you explain what Intermittent Fasting is to someone who thinks it’s only for fitness fanatics? 

Intermittent fasting is an eating pattern that cycles between periods of short-term fasting and eating. There are multiple intermittent fasting diet plans circulating. All of them dictate when you should eat rather than what specific foods you should eat. One popular version, called the 16:8 method, means you fast for 16 hours every day and eat during your chosen 8 hour eating window. You repeat this pattern of eating every day. However, for long-term health benefits, it is highly recommended that you don’t ignore the “what to eat” part of this eating regimen. As a nutritionist, it is suggested that you combine a plant-based, Mediterranean style of eating with your intermittent fasting plan of choice.

Dr. Janet Brill

Intermittent fasting is a lifestyle, not a fad diet. Intermittent fasting is for all individuals seeking to improve their health (and who do not fall into the category of people who should NOT follow such a plan), not just health and fitness fanatics. Numerous scientific studies have shown that intermittent fasting programs can have powerful benefits for your body and brain. In fact, intermittent fasting appears to be a veritable fountain of youth, lowering body weight, blood pressure and cholesterol levels, improving glucose control, reducing inflammation and even fighting aging and boosting mental acuity.

Oftentimes, people want to know how long you can stay on a program of intermittent fasting. If you are eating nutritious food and can maintain a healthy weight, you can eat this way indefinitely.

When did you get the idea to write “Intermittent Fasting for Dummies”? How long did the research take?

The New England Journal of Medicine came out with a review article on intermittent fasting on December 26, 2019. In early 2020, I read the article and became fascinated with the conclusion: intermittent-fasting interventions can effectively treat obesity, insulin resistance, dyslipidemia, hypertension, and inflammation. In fact, intermittent fasting was shown to confer health benefits to a greater extent than that attributed just to just weight loss. Serendipitously, my literary agent contacted me and said Wiley was looking for a writer for just that topic—would I be interested? The research took me six months.

What is one of the most astonishing case-studies you’ve come across during your research?

Although not a single case study, I am probably most astonished by the conclusions of a scientific review article published in 2014 in the journal Translational Research and titled: “Intermittent fasting vs daily calorie restriction for type 2 diabetes prevention: a review of human findings.” The review showed that intermittent fasting programs over 3–24-week periods can cause weight loss of between 3–8% weight. Furthermore, the review showed that intermittent fasting regimens target harmful belly fat, with data showing loss of 4–7% of their waist circumference—which is truly extraordinary.

As the title suggests, is “Intermittent Fasting for Dummies” just for the beginners or can it also benefit those who are already on a plan?  

Yes, those already on the plan should read my book as a primer for how to follow this lifestyle in a safe and healthy way. My book differs from most other books or internet recommendations on how to follow a program of intermittent fasting. Many of them dictate when you should eat rather than what specific foods you should eat. Others pair an extremely unhealthy keto diet with the program.  As a health and wellness professional, I give dietary recommendations for pairing the plan with the healthiest diet, a green, plant-based Mediterranean eating regimen. I also give safe exercise recommendations as well as dictate who should NOT follow a program of intermittent fasting. I also give lots of helpful tips and tricks to keep people motivated and to help them adhere to this new healthy lifestyle.

Intermittent fasting is safe for most people, but it’s not for everyone. If you have a medical condition, you must get medical clearance to follow a program of intermittent fasting, especially if you have:

diabetes or problems with blood sugar regulation; have high or low blood pressure; take prescription medications (people who take medications for blood pressure or heart disease may be more prone to electrolyte abnormalities from fasting); or are underweight. Intermittent fasting should NOT be practiced by children; people with a history of eating disorders; women who are trying to conceive; women who are pregnant or breastfeeding and uncontrolled diabetics.

What is the best comment you have received about your book so far? 

Available on Amazon

☆☆☆☆☆ 5 out of 5 stars.      

Absolute One-Stop Guide To Intermittent Fasting

The absolute one-stop guide to intermittent fasting. I have been curious about this newest eating craze and wondering if it might be right for me. I love how this guide breaks it all down into multiple sections for easy reference. It gives the rationale and science behind fasting. It provides cautions and things to consider before starting. So many questions are covered and answered, I felt like I was able to just reach out and ask and I would find the answer somewhere in the pages. I especially appreciated the section that broke down the different types of intermittent fasting plans. Knowing how to incorporate exercise into this eating plan is crucial and due justice is given to this topic. If you are considering this way of eating, or are just curious about the premise, this is the book you are looking for! 

We hear that you practice Intermittent Fasting. What are the three things that helped you the most when you were starting off? 

Black coffee, water and staying busy writing and researching this book!

What is your guilty pleasure?

Red wine and chocolate (during my eating periods—of course!).

Post COVID-19, how do we keep on track with our diet as we travel? 

The most wonderful aspect of intermittent fasting is the freedom to eat during the feasting periods without counting calories or feeling like you must sacrifice taste (just be sure not to overdo it and have crazy junk food calorie-laden eat–fests during your eating periods or you will not get results and will negate the health benefits!). Traveling will be easy, just eat during your eating windows.

What is your favorite recipe from the book? 

Lentil soup. All of us needs to eat a plant-based diet for better health. Lentils have been part of the culinary culture of the Mediterranean throughout the ages. These seeds may be petite, but they are nutrition giants, loaded with the heart healthiest of ingredients including fiber, antioxidants, plant protein, vitamins, minerals, and iron—and all this for just pennies on the dollar. What’s more, eating legumes such as lentils might just be the dietary secret to longevity. Studies show that people who eat a diet rich in legumes live longer. Lentils and other legumes are nutritional powerhouses loaded with plant protein—as legumes are Mother Nature’s healthy version of meat—you get a nice dose of plant protein but without any of the artery-clogging excess baggage that goes along with animal protein (saturated fat and cholesterol). Plus, you get fiber, vitamins, minerals, and strong antioxidants as a bonus. The fact is that Americans eat too much animal protein, which tends to be at the center of our plate at breakfast, lunch, and dinner.  

Try this delicious lentil soup with a loaf of crusty whole grain bread (for dipping)–a spectacularly delicious and nutritious meal!

Explore the Immersive Dystopia of the Internet With Edgar Scott

Explore the Immersive Dystopia of the Internet With Edgar Scott

Technology and innovation drive our society towards a better tomorrow. But, what if someone misused the inventions? Edgar Scott presents a case of technology gone wrong in his upcoming dystopian sci-fi novel, “418: I Am a Teapot.” But is there light at the end of the tunnel? We’re about to find out.

Edgar Scott shares his technical insights, personal views, and scoops from 418 in a candid interview.

What does the title, “418: I am a Teapot” mean and how does it relate to theme of the book?

The title 418 actually refers to an HTTP response code.  While its introduction was originally an April Fool’s joke, the “418 I’m a Teapot” response is usually ignored by web browsers; unlike a “404 Not Found” response.  A crafty network admin may configure a server to issue a 418 response which allows the visitor to use the site while the 418 response is recorded in the server logs for programmers to analyze.  

In today’s internet, we often program web services to have different roles, authentication, handling tokens, access data sources in addition to rendering HTML.  Often what appears to be an entire web server is little more than a program written to respond to specific requests.  In the novel “418: I am a teapot” we have immersive internet, which implies programmability.  A practical aspect of 418’s world is that, to pay for being on the internet 24/7, we have to be programmed to carry out tasks.  Happily, if we are in the immersive internet, we won’t even be aware what we are doing; we don’t need any skill to do what we are programmed to do and are paid accordingly. 

In such a world, where you are not even aware of what we do, we might as well be a teapot. In fact, our protagonist, may have actually been a virtual teapot or a proverbial coffee maker, without even knowing it.

Why did you choose to write a dystopian sci-fi novel?

Edgar Scott

Having watched new technology, which normally improves our lives, think of all the truly mind shattering things that we can now do with computers, mobile devices, wearable tech.  I can tell if my heart is beating properly, I know exactly how long my morning run was or how to avoid getting stuck in traffic.  While I love new technology, coding, and toying with computers, I wanted to issue a warning that not always is everything as rosy as it appears at first blush.  I felt compelled to write this novel because technology can be abused.  It could be used to exploit or control us.  I felt an extreme example would be useful for everyone to consider.  

There is a second reason I wrote the novel: I had a lot of fun working with my characters and I wanted to use them to impart hope to anyone who feels that the onrush of technology is getting the better of them.

Without giving much away, what is your favorite scene from “418: I am a Teapot”? 

418: I Am a Teapot

My favorite scene is when 418 (who calls himself George) finally meets his wife Belinda (chapter 19), offline, for the first time.  Their entire relationship, even the fact that they had a family, had been conducted online.  He is surprised she does not look as she presented herself online.  He is revulsed by the way that she behaves when she is brought offline.  This is a major turning point for George in the novel he now starts to view himself as not belonging to the class of people who live online.  

This scene also underscores how ill-equipped people who have spent their lives online would be with the offline world.  They have not progressed, emotionally or intellectually, past childhood as they live in a world of make believe where, while they can be hurt, they can’t hurt themselves.  Belinda literally freaks out because she is offline.

The scene shows how George has grown since he became damaged.  He is shocked by her behavior, but it does not surprise him.  At this point, his marriage to Belinda is over, he begins to refer to her no longer as “she” but uses the more conventional “it” pronoun used for persons who live in the immersive internet.

Besides the hero of your story, which character did you enjoy building the most?

I really enjoyed building Brian’s character.  He manages George much the same way that one would manage a dump truck, a machine or any other piece of what economists would call capital equipment.  Brian is immobilized in his life by not knowing how to progress.  He is paralyzed by fear; if he stops doing what he is doing he could be forced to become like George.  He always maintains his detachment —which I have seen managers do in the IT world— but is keenly interested in how his employee acts as it might give him insight into how to break out of his own economic class.  

I particularly enjoyed that Brian asks everyone, including 418/George, to call him King.  This is Brian trying to project an image he would like onto himself, but no-one, except 418/George ever refers to him as King, and George, when he does finally learn Brian’s name, is uncomfortable not calling him King.

In order for a manager to progress, they must understand and dissolve the barriers between themselves and their staff, and Brian has to do the same.  The same insular thinking that keeps Brian away from George prevents Brian from finding a solution to his own problems, a delicious irony.

If your book is made into a Netfix movie, who do see playing the lead role? 

I always dreamed that Irrfan Kahn would play it, but sadly he was lost to the world last year.  But, I am certain there are a lot of excellent actors of South-Asian background who could pull off the deadpan humour that Brian Agarwal’s character requires.  

As far as 418/George’s character Cathel Pendred, though George is defiantly not fit and ripped like Cathel, so he will have to act soft and flabby, but his face is very close to what I’ve imagined George to look like.  It’s a bonus that Cathel is about the age that I imagine George to be (I only anticipate people living like George to live until 40-45) during the story, George should be in his early to mid-thirties.

If you could eliminate one piece of technology from your life, what would it be and why?

My cellphone.  It occupies a definite slice of my mind at any one time.  While it is stunningly convenient to be able to reach out to anyone at any time.  I do miss the naïve bliss that we used to enjoy of being, not at home, or not able to take your call / read your message.  I find the constant simulation of the cellphone to be tiring after a while. 

It should be noted, cellphones are amazing!  When I think of the processing power of the modern cellphone, the things you can do with it, it’s boggling if you stop and think about it.  A full list, while impressive is boring, it’s an amazing tool.  Being a good techie, I just have to have the latest tech and I never cease to be amazed.

Choose a movie title that best defines the story of your life.

Re-inventing Fate.

I love this concept as fate is immutable, but re-invention implies ultimate malleability.  I do believe in fate, but I do believe we get to choose our own and we can guide ourselves to our intended outcomes.  We can have whatever fate we want, it only takes a bit of re-invention.

Rapid Fire time. Answer the following questions with the first thing that comes to your mind. 

What was the last soundtrack you heard?

Mamma-Mia.

Your favourite day of the week

Friday, is there any other option? 

Computer Game or Netflix

Computer Game.

Milk Chocolate or Dark Chocolate

Dark Chocolate.

A preferred writing snack

Coffee, black.

Your biggest pet peeve is…

Apathy.

Your favorite movie of all times

Julie & Julia 

Tips to Effective Crankiness By Steven Joseph

Tips to Effective Crankiness By Steven Joseph

Have you ever wondered why so many good self-help books render ineffective? The problem with those books is the narrative – telling you what’s wrong with you and your habits. You’ll occasionally find books that help you embrace who you are and guide you to become a better version of yourself. “A Grownup Guide to Effective Crankiness: The CrankaTsuris Method” by Steven Joseph is one such book.

Timely and effective, the easy-to-follow, fun narrative is what makes this book stand apart. It also led us to want to know more about the author.

Here’s the fascinating interview with Crankiness Expert and Author Steven Joseph:

Why did you choose to write your first two books about Crankiness? 

It started out when I arrived jetlagged with my even more jetlagged sleep deprived partner on a vacation in Rome at an AIRBnB during a heat wave and a power outage in a stuffy hot dark apartment. 

A Grownup Guide to Effective Crankiness

She was a bit cranky. Under the circumstances, I had no energy to consume someone else’s cranky when I had my own cranky. 

I finally blurted out to my partner out of sheer desperation and exhaustion that she was a TyrantoCrankaTsuris, and that was how all the other bigger dinosaurs disappeared.  It was when one tiny dinosaur would not stop cranking out her tsuris (Yiddish for “problems”), and all the bigger dinosaurs ran for the hills or the bottom of the ocean.  

The CrankaTsuris was born, and we used it as a signal to each other when we got a bit cranky. It became our container.  Because of its effectiveness, I knew that I had to start writing about it.

While writing “A Grownup Guide to Effective Crankiness: The CrankaTsuris Method” what was the one goal you had in mind?

Steven Joseph's Headshot
Steven Joseph

Do you know how they announce at the end of the year that the Merriam-Webster Dictionary announces to the world that they have accepted a new word in their exclusive dictionary club?  Imagine how people would look at crankiness if CrankaTsuris was adopted as a brand-new word. 

What is the one thing you do when you get cranky?

I stick the Cranky inside my CrankaTsuris Deposit Box! 

Can you give us three tips to manage crankiness when we’re stuck in traffic?

The most important tip is that if you anticipate traffic, make sure you do not drink lots of liquids beforehand. You do not want to be sitting in traffic and then you are stuck and have to pee really badly.  Because do you know what the only cure for “Have to Pee Really Badly CrankaTsuris” is. It is called “peeing.”  And relieving “Have to Pee Really Badly CrankaTsuris” is the one of two situations that every human on the planet, whether they believe in God or not, will say the same thing.  “Oh. Thank God!!”

The second most important tip is that if you anticipate traffic is to make sure you do not load your car with little screaming children before you go out.  You do not want to be stuck in traffic with screaming kids.

This is the second situation that you finally get home exhausted, and when the kids finally fall asleep, you again exhale, and say “Thank God.” 

The first two tips leads to the third tip because if you followed Tip One and Tip Two, you can now say the following thing when you get stuck in traffic:

“At least I do not have to pee, and also, at least I do not have screaming kids in the car.”  Just sit back and enjoy!

What is the coolest thing you heard from your friends and family about your new book?

It inspired them to write a book!  Three people wrote a book because I wrote a book.  My book is giving birth to babies!!

Since you like writing stories, do you write short stories in your spare time? Where can we find them? 

I run, and the stories appear to me during a run, and I go home and copy them off my brain. They can be found on my blog at www.StevenJosephAuthor.Com.

Here are some rapid-fire questions we’d like you answer as fast as you can. Pick one.

Fiction or Non-fiction? 

Fiction.

Tea or Coffee?

Coffee.

Panda or Koala?

Koala.

Sourdough or Wheat?

Wheat.

Road trip or Cruise ship?

Road Trip.

Movies or Books? 

Books.