Self-Publishing Author Spotlight: James Garrett

It takes talent, determination and persistence to start and finish a self-publishing venture. We at Outskirts Press have always admired the gumption of our authors. That’s why we believe it’s important to recognize dedicated self-publishing authors who stuck it out, and stuck with us, through thick and thin to make their dreams of authorship come true. To that end, we take a little time each week to shine our Self Publishing Author Spotlight on one of our many accomplished authors.

This week Outskirts Press proudly features fiction writer James Garrett, self-publishing author of Benicia and Letters of Love, The Mansion Stories and Chief Salt.

ABOUT THE AUTHOR:
James Garrett was born in Santa Rosa, California. Shortly before he was five years old, his family moved to Author James GarrettBenicia, California. He enjoyed growing up in the small town atmosphere. He attended local schools and graduated from Benicia High School in 1961. After serving four years in the U.S. Navy, he enrolled at San Francisco State University, graduated, and earned his teaching credential. He taught at Benicia High School for 27 years before retiring. During retirement he found enjoyment in writing stories and poetry. He has won awards for his poetry, some of which has been published and read around the world. He has been married to Roberta, who he met in their high school journalism class, for over forty years.

Benicia and Letters of LoveBenicia and Letters of Love

Your heart will relate to these letters of love.

The letters in Benicia and Letters of Love read so authentically they could be about any town in the United States. We all know people, who have found love or lost love, and feel a connection, positive or negative, to the city where the experience took place. James Garrett chose to use the city of Benicia, where he grew up and currently resides, as the focus of his first published novel.

The novel is a collection of letters written in response to a newspaper advertisement inviting individuals to share the stories of their love. The love is written of in many ways: same race or mixed race, male/female, male/male, female/female, and young/old, to name a few. Each letter has its own style and approach in describing a facet of the emotion called love. Every letter will draw you in and hold your attention to the end, as its personal story unfolds.

The Mansion StoriesThe Mansion Stories

In his second novel, a collection of three unique yet connected stories, the award-winning poet has woven his poetry within the prose to fully reveal the feelings and emotions of the characters. The poems add texture to the loving narration. This technique is a departure from his earlier novel, which was made up of many “letters” written about love connected to the City of Benicia. But, he still continues to write based on experiences he has had throughout his life. In The Mansion Stories each story is an adventure unto itself but the thread of love flows through them all and ties them together. The author’s first novel, Benicia and Letters of Love, continues to reach hearts. If you enjoy enchanting stories of love, you will want to read The Mansion Stories. Perhaps it will touch the romantic soul in you.

Chief SaltChief Salt

Anyone who knows of the connection held by “buddies,” “brothers in arms” and those in love, will quickly grasp the concept and depth of Chief Salt.

“With both poetry and prose, James Garrett artfully tells an unflinching tale about hard lessons in duty, courage, love and loss. With humor, wit, and incredible intensity, Garrett’s characters come to life. Chief Salt is an outstanding novel!” – Micah Larripa, Captain, USMC, Iraq Combat Veteran

“The writing from each character’s point of view is incredibly human. I know who they are, and where they come from. I loved how James Garrett brought their past into the present. He presented them with honest traits, both good and not so good. The poetry makes the characters come alive. The pause brought on a moment to reflect. I akin it to the music or soundtrack in a movie during a background scene. As an Army wife, though my husband is not in the Special Forces, I read this with a compassion for these men. I have the understanding of their love for Country, and the institution that protects it.” – Tiffany Johnson, 1st Lieutenant, Nurse, U.S. Army, (Active Duty 1998-2002)

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Self-Publishing Author Spotlight: Vada M. Wolter

When publishing your own book, it is important to find the right self publishing company. With so many to choose from, it can often be difficult for authors to make a decision. However, when you find a company that provides you with the trusted assistance you need in publishing and promoting your book, it’s best to stick with them.Vada M. Wolter
 
Many of our authors publish several books with us. We love to spotlight these authors with whom we’ve forged strong relationships, so that you can get to know why these writers call Outskirts Press their publishing home.
Outskirts Press author Vada M. Wolter has published multiple times with Outskirts Press, both on her own and with former classmate, friend and co-author Joseph A. Zapalac. In addition to being an accomplished author and photographer, Wolter holds an Associate Degree in Biblical Studies and was caregiver for four years. She loves being creative, whether with camera or pen. Wolter resides with her husband in the Houston, Texas, area.

Below are the books Wolter has published with Outskirts Press.

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The Caregiver's Story by Vada M. Wolter

The Caregiver’s Story: A Memoir of Struggle and Survival

Does God allow us to go through difficult times so that we may grow?

This story is about a family’s struggle of caring for an aging parent suffering from Dementia.

“My desire is that in the reading of my caregiver’s story you will understand my survival of personal struggles. Perhaps by reading this book you will understand my world, and it will give you encouragement to survive your own.” — Vada M. Wolter

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Little Boy Lost by Vada M. Wolter and Joseph A. Zapalac
Little Boy Lost (co-author Joseph A. Zapalac)

Martha Daniels worked hard on the sharecropper’s farm, hating the grueling work and dreaming of leaving. Wanting more from life, she found it after the town’s local hotel hired her—she met Joe. After three short years, she returned to the farm she hated and bickering parents. Her husband’s unforeseen accident on an oil rig changed their lives and that of their infant son, Johnny. Long Road Home’s Little Boy Lost is a story of Johnny Daniels, a painfully-shy, poverty-stricken country boy who is emotionally and verbally abused, and lied to by those he loves the most.

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Treasured Memories by Vada M. wolter and Joseph A. Zapalac Treasured Memories (co-author Joseph A. Zapalac)

A treasure of short stories that will last a lifetime, Treasured Memories includes short stories that reflect memories of childhood, the ’50s, love, faith, special men and many memorable moments.

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Rockin' Chair Cowboys by Vada M. Wolter and Joseph A. Zapalac
Rockin’ Chair Cowboys and Other Short Stories (co-author Joseph  A. Zapalac)

Just imagine sitting on the porch of a country home listening to someone telling a story as the stars glitter in the sky, fireflies glow and an owl hoots in a nearby tree.

Rockin’ Chair Cowboys brings back some of that flavor and spirit of the past, blending in a few recent stories and some recipes to whet the appetite and fill the tummy.

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Ribbons and Roses by Vada M. Wolter and Joseph A. Zapalac
Ribbons and Roses: Poetry, Prose and Potpourri
(co-author Joseph A. Zapalac)

Rekindle the Spirit of Love in Your Heart

Ribbons and Roses is a collection of heartwarming poetry and prose that carry deep emotion and affection that tug at the heart. A sprinkling of God’s Word is scattered throughout, much like the delicate fragrance of potpourri. This heartfelt collection will help readers to revisit time-honored values, to remind them that their lives are a Christ-like fragrance rising up to God, and to encourage them to journal their thoughts and feelings on pages provided as they see God’s plan unfold in their lives.

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Self-Publishing Author Spotlight: Lisa M. Andrade

When publishing your own book, it is important to find the right self publishing company. With so many to choose from, it can often be difficult for authors to make a decision. However, when you find a company that provides you with the assistance you are looking for in publishing/promoting your book, it’s best to stick with them.

Many of our authors publish many books with us, and we like to schedule these spotlights so that you can get to know the writers that call Outskirts Press their publishing home.

Self-Publishing Author Lisa M. AndradeSelf-publishing Outskirts Press author, Lisa M. Andrade, is currently employed full-time as an Administrative Assistant in an upscale office in Westchester County, NY and part-time as a Kennel Assistant at the Putnam Humane Society in Putnam County, NY. She resides in the scenic hamlet of Carmel, NY where she continues to pursue her love and passion of writing and hopes to someday make a career out of it.

In her spare time, she enjoys her all-time favorite hobbies of fishing and hiking and always lives life to the fullest with no regrets and no looking back. She wishes to express her compassion for animals and was awarded a $5,000 grant in 2004 bearing her name for the Putnam Humane Society.

In addition, she was graciously honored the title of “Hometown Hero” by a local radio station on September 13, 2009 for her devotion, commitment and dedication to the animals at PHS. Another priority of Lisa’s is to revive the interest in poetry of all varieties and styles to be appreciated by younger and older generations alike. The beauty of art lies within the poetic expressions of the artist to convey a message of wisdom, hope and inspiration…make the most out of life and life will make the most out of you.

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Below are the four books she has published with Outskirts Press:

A BIG, PHAT Diet by a BIG, PHAT Loser by Lisa M. Andrade
A BIG, PHAT Diet by a BIG, PHAT Loser

An Extreme, All-Over Makeover For Every Facet of Your Life

This book contains the following:

All-Natural Additives:

* Healthy Lifestyle Agreement

* Diet Journal

* Exercises

* Weight Chart

* Tip Calculation Chart

* Budget Worksheet

* PHAT Girl Mantra

Recommended Daily Allowance: One Chapter per day.

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A Symphony of Love by Lisa M. Andrade
A Symphony of Love

~ Reveries & Passions

As a loving tribute, Lisa wrote and dedicated A Symphony of Love ~Reveries & Passions to her daughter Maria and future son-in-law Kyle. She presented the book to them on their wedding day, December 19th, 2009. The book highlights all the wedding details and includes photos of Maria and Kyle and poetry about love and marriage.

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Bridezillas: Season 7 - Episodes 708 & 709 by Lisa M. Andrade
Bridezillas: Season 7 – Episodes 708 & 709

Behind the Scenes with a Mother-of-the-Bridezilla

Based on the top rated woman’s entertainment show Bridezillas, author and mother-of-the-bridezilla, Lisa M. Andrade, recounts the filming of Season 7, Episodes 708 & 709 in a behind-the-scenes manner. She writes about what was actually filmed the entire week before her daughter Maria’s wedding and then exposes the truth of how the contents were cut, manipulated and taken out of context to portray the television show’s perception of a true BRIDEZILLA.

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Impromptu Blessings by Lisa M. Andrade
Impromptu Blessings

– a collection of prose & short stories

Impromptu Blessings is a poignant and compelling book written with courage, love and honesty. Humble and revealing, yet peppered with humor and wisdom, the author offers us a deeper understanding of how much we influence the people we come in contact with. This book encourages you to push through the challenges of life and reflect upon not only the good, but also the difficult times in order to learn and grow through our successes and failures.

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So why does Lisa keep publishing with Outskirts Press?

“I have to say that every step of the way was an AMAZING experience. The entire process was easy, and my Author Representatives were helpful and courteous in updating me on the progress of my books and wonderful in getting back to me in a timely and professional manner. What a great accomplishment to envision my dreams (from scribbles and chicken scratch) and then actually seeing them come to fruition (glossy paperbacks). I am extremely delighted in the finished products and with Outskirts Press as a whole.” (Lisa M. Andrade)

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Self-Publishing Author Spotlight: Jeffrey D. Barbieri

When publishing your own book, it is important to find the right self publishing company. With so many to choose from, it can often be difficult for authors to make a decision. However, when you find a company that provides you with the assistance you are looking for in publishing/promoting your book, it’s best to stick with them. Many of our authors publish many books with us, and we like to schedule these spotlights so that you can get to know the writers that call Outskirts Press their publishing home.

Author Jeffrey D. BarbieriOutskirts Press author, Jeffrey D. Barbieri, has grown up experiencing life between New Jersey and Puerto Rico. He won the 2009 NJ Male Author of the Year Award for his Ben & Ink Series.

He participates in the Liberty State Fiction Writers Association and he is also an active member of the American Legion and of two charities, Save-a-Gato in Puerto Rico and Paper Houses Across the Border.

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Below are the three books he has published with Outskirts Press:

Lets Find You by Jeffrey D. Barbieri
Lets Find You

The Ben and Ink Series

Let’s Find You chronicles his remarkable upbringing in a singularly unique family, one where a new crisis is always just around the corner. Told in a mix of prose and poetry, the compelling coming-of-age narrative follows Benjamin from a young boy into early adulthood.

This book is the ultimate guide into the heart and soul of a teenage boy as he journeys through car crashes, near-death experiences and melted chocolate…

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FROG by Jeffrey D. Barbieri
FROG

The Ben and Ink Series

FROG is book II in the Ben and Ink Series. Ben’s adventures continue as he journeys on his path of self discovery. Join him and his brothers as they fight battles within and the world around them. Will Ben find himself and find love? Will he take a stand and find his voice among his brothers? Ben’s passion is revealed through his words.

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Lets Find You by Jeffrey D. Barbieri
Viola

Fields of Flowers

Based on real events, Viola: Fields of Flowers is the touching story of two girls who come together and form the unlikeliest of friendships. Although forever separated by the color of their skin, Viola and Ruth share a story of truth, love and the power of family despite the tragedies of this era of segregation.

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Self-Publishing Author Spotlight: Rachel August

When publishing your own book, it is important to find the right self publishing company. With so many to choose from, it can often be difficult for authors to make a decision. However, when you find a company that provides you with the assistance you are looking for in publishing/promoting your book, it’s best to stick with them.
 
Many of our authors publish several books with us, and we like to schedule these spotlights so that you can get to know so these writers that call Outskirts Press their publishing home.
Outskirts Press author, Rachel August, is the author of two children’s books. She is a mother and remembers how fascinating the child’s mind is and wanted to share those memories through Children’s Books, just like the one’s she read to her children. She is a New Orleans native and now resides in Washington State. Rachel grew up as a military dependent and is now a Military wife.

Below are the two books she has published with Outskirts Press.

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Adventures of Libby Nickel: What’s your Mommy’s First Name?

Libby What’s Your Mother’s First Name? My Mommy’s first name is Mommy.

Libby Learns That Her Mommy’s Name Is Not Just Mommy. Come On The Journey With Libby As She discovers her Mommy’s first name.

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Journey of My Untied Shoes

AMBER-GRACE’s shoes are missing!

 

AMBER-GRACE’s Shoes Are Missing! Can you help AMBER-GRACE find them? Join AMBER-GRACE and her playful puppy TRAMP on their adventure to piece together the mystery. Will they find her shoes, or will AMBER-GRACE discover something even more important?

 

 

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So why does Rachel keep coming back to Outskirts Press? We’ll let her tell you in her own words…

“Outskirts press made publishing as easy as 1-2-3.  Every step of the way there was a representative or consultant that expertly guided me through each stage of the publishing process.  The most fascinating part was watching the process.  It was like being in a cookie factory where one can see the first stage with the mixing of ingredients all the way to the final packaging of this perfectly made delicacy.  Exciting is imagining various scenes of my book and conveying that to the illustrator’s and magically there’s my most vivid imagination come to life through my book.  I purchased the Pearl package and to see my full-color illustration and hold it was the most wondrous thing.  To see this imagined character come to life in full-color and be more beautiful than expected is pretty amazing.  My experience with Outskirts was so amazing that I am working on my third Pearl book with them.”

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