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Why the Amaryllis Flower?

How are women like the amaryllis flower? Read on to find out!

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Why my affinity for the amaryllis flower?

You may have noticed I have a strong affinity for the amaryllis flower. It’s on my logo, I use it in many of my other graphics and I even named my business and my publishing company Amaryllis. What’s the deal with that? Why the amaryllis flower?

Well, there’s a few reasons. One big one is exemplified by something that happened this week.

So, I am horrible with plants. Like my thumb is blacker than black. All you need to do is ask my sister or mother-in-law who try to give my plants some much needed TLC and resuscitation whenever they visit.

And yet, I have this beautiful amaryllis flower that somehow managed to bloom again this week for the third year in a row! Trust me, I thought this thing was deader than dead. I honestly can’t even remember the last time I watered it, and yet you can see– it’s a beauty to behold at the moment.

But that’s the thing about amaryllis plants– they’re the heartiest flowers out there. They’re bred to withstand harsh climates, lack of light, neglect… and still come out better than ever!

Kind of like my protagonists, or honestly women in general. You can knock us down– but we’re never out!

What does the name amaryllis mean?

Even the name amaryllis and the symbolism behind it hold special meaning to this analogy. The amaryllis flower derives its name from the Greek word meaning- “to sparkle.” And the stunning flowers are believed to mean pride, strength and determination as they stand tall over all other winter blooms. Yes, they are one of the few flowers that bloom during the winter!

So, now do you see why I love the amaryllis flower? What better way could I represent my company and strong, empowered women?

Have a great weekend everyone- and remember to sparkle!

If you enjoyed this post, here are a few more you may enjoy:

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Who was the first novel writer? Learn the History of Novels!

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Do you know the history of novels? Who was the first novel writer? Read here to find out!

The History of Novels

Are you familiar with the background or history of novels? Where did novels come from? Who was the first novel writer?

In the 21st century, where novels are considered the most popular form of entertainment, it’s impossible to imagine novels not being around. But prior to the eighteenth century, novels didn’t exist. Prior to novels, authors retold stories that were already well known. And the genre of fiction was just reinventing a story previously told. For example, an author might reuse characters such as Hercules or Adam and Eve and tell a new rendition of their story.

Daniel DeFoe was the first author documented to break this tradition. DeFoe pulled away from retelling stories and invented his own new protagonists, experiencing their own trials, tribulations and lives. The first documented published work classified as a novel was DeFoe’s Robinson Crusoe published in 1719. The novel is about a man, Crusoe, who was shipwrecked on an island and the adventures he experienced.

At first, critics did not know what to make of this new fictional publication. Debate followed as other authors jumped to copy. What defined this new genre? An imaginative recreation of reality? A historical or scary conveyor of the truth? A harmless amusement? These were all potential definitions of a novel in the eighteenth century.

Despite the varying perspectives and even potential contradictions, there were some key components that emerged in the new fictional pieces. 1. Writers were more likely to show the life of the present day vs life from the past. 2. Characters were made to be believable and relatable.

Thus the genre of the novel was born.

As we all know, novels are now the most popular form of published genres. There is just something about picking up a story to escape from reality. And one thing that never ceases to amaze me is just when you think every story has already been told and there’s nothing new left out there, some new author finds a way to completely prove that wrong. Just goes to show there really is no limit to the power of imagination!

Happy Reading Everyone!

Want to read more posts like this? Here are a few more you may enjoy:

The History of Historical Fiction & Why it’s Popular…

Do You Know The History of Mother’s Day?

U.S. Immigration History- How Much Do You Know About It?

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Changemaker Spotlight: Maggie Kuhn

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Maggie Kuhn: Champion for Elder Rights and Social Justice

In the history of American activism, few figures are as impactful and revered as Maggie Kuhn. Known for her fearless advocacy for the elderly, Kuhn’s legacy is a testament to her dedication to justice and her unwavering commitment to social change.

Inspiration and Friendships

Maggie Kuhn’s journey into advocacy began later in life, sparked by her forced retirement at age 65. This moment of injustice led her to recognize the pervasive ageism in society. Determined to fight back, Kuhn gathered a group of like-minded individuals who were also experiencing the sting of mandatory retirement. Together, they formed a movement that would soon become known as the Gray Panthers.

The Formation of the Gray Panthers

In 1970, Maggie Kuhn and her group founded the Gray Panthers.The organization was created to work on issues of concern to the elderly, such as pension rights and age discrimination, but also concerned itself with larger public issues such as the Vietnam War. Their core mission was clear: Older people needed to seize control of their lives and participate in the active world working for issues in which they believed.

Maggie Kuhn’s Advocacy and Activism

Kuhn and the Gray Panthers quickly became known for their bold and outspoken approach. They campaigned against mandatory retirement, high medical costs, and nursing home reform. But, unlike other senior advocacy groups, the Gray Panthers also emphasized the interconnectedness of social issues, believing injustices affecting the elderly also impacted younger generations. Their motto became “Age and Youth in Action,” and many of its members were high school and college students. Kuhn also advocated for teens to be taken more seriously and given more responsibility. Much like the elderly, she felt teens were an under-valued resource.

Life in Activism

Kuhn’s dedication to the cause was unwavering. She led numerous protests and was a vocal critic of policies that marginalized the elderly. Her activism was not without personal risk and sacrifice. Despite facing opposition and sometimes hostility, Kuhn remained steadfast in her commitment to justice.

The Santa Claus Protest

Kuhn’s activism engaged tactics that were often rowdy and attention seeking. Dressed in Santa suits she and other protestors picketed a department store for its mandatory retirement policies during Christmas. They held signs questioning if Santa Claus was too old to be working.

The Final Push for Social Justice

Kuhn and the Gray Panthers continued their relentless advocacy for elder rights and broader social justice issues. They lobbied for the Elder Justice Act, campaigned for affordable healthcare, and fought against the privatization of Social Security. Their efforts contributed to significant policy changes and heightened public awareness of ageism and elder abuse. Their greatest achievement was getting Congress to ban mandatory retirement in most jobs in 1986.

Maggie Kuhn’s Legacy

Maggie Kuhn’s impact on social justice and elder rights remains profound. She was a trailblazer who challenged societal norms and fought tirelessly for the rights of the marginalized. Kuhn continued her activism until her death in 1995, leaving behind a legacy of courage and determination.

In recognition of her contributions, numerous awards and honors were bestowed upon Kuhn, including the American Society on Aging Award and the Ralph Nader Lifetime Achievement Award. She was also inducted into the National Women’s Hall of Fame. The Gray Panthers continue to advocate for social justice today, embodying Kuhn’s spirit and vision.

You can check out ALL of my Changemaker Spotlights HERE.

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Find more ways to spoil your inner bookworm!

Best Historical Fiction 2024- So Far!

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It’s been a fantastic year of historical fiction so far. Let’s take a look at the best historical fiction reads of 2024.

Historical Fiction 2024- My Half Year Round-Up!

I swear each year the historical fiction genre continues to get better and better. Historical Fiction 2024 has really shone bright! Some of these you’ll see were on my Most Anticipated Reads of the Year list and some I stumbled upon. Therefore, withouth further adieu, here is my half year round up of Best Historical Fiction 2024 books so far!

Unsinkable by Jenni L. Walsh

This book absolutely floored me! Unsinkable is a masterful retelling of the Titanic’s tragic voyage from the perspective of a young girl who survives the disaster.

Walsh brings the era to life with meticulous detail and emotional depth, making you feel every wave and heartbeat. For instance, the resilience and courage displayed by the characters are inspiring. It’s an emotional roller coaster that leaves you breathless and hopeful.

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The Women by Kristin Hannah

Kristin Hannah has delivered yet another compelling and deeply moving story with The Women. Furthermore, this novel shines a spotlight on the often-overlooked experiences of women during the Vietnam War. The protagonist, a nurse named Frances “Frankie” McGrath, is thrust into the chaos and horror of war, and Hannah masterfully portrays her journey of courage, resilience, and the struggle to find her place in a world that underestimates her contributions.

The Women is a powerful exploration of friendship, love, and the lasting impacts of war. Hannah’s signature emotional depth and richly drawn characters make this book a standout in historical fiction. If you’re looking for a gripping and heartfelt read, this one’s for you.

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The Berlin Letters by Katherine Reay

Katherine Reay has hit it out of the park with The Berlin Letters. This novel intertwines past and present through a series of letters discovered in post-war Berlin. The story shifts between the wartime experiences of a German family and a modern-day historian uncovering their secrets. Reay’s ability to blend historical accuracy with compelling narrative makes this book a standout. The emotional revelations and historical insights will keep you glued to the pages.

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Titanic Survivors Book Club by Timothy Schaffert

Titanic Survivors Book Club is a unique and compelling read. Schaffert’s novel delves into the lives of those who survived the Titanic disaster and how it shaped their futures. This book is a deep exploration of trauma, survival, and the bonds formed as a result of tragedy. The vivid characterizations and intricate plot make it a memorable addition to any historical fiction collection.

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The Mayor of Maxwell Street by Avery Cunningham

Avery Cunningham’s The Mayor of Maxwell Street is a brilliant dive into 1920s Chicago, filled with intrigue and romance. The story follows Nelly Sawyer, a headstrong heiress and undercover journalist, and Jay Shorey, a charming biracial up-and-comer. Together, they navigate high society and the underworld to uncover the identity of the powerful “Mayor of Maxwell Street.”

Cunningham captures the vibrant and dangerous allure of Prohibition-era Chicago with meticulous detail. Nelly’s fierce independence and Jay’s enigmatic charm create a dynamic partnership, adding depth to their journey. The novel deftly explores themes of race, class, and ambition, making it a thrilling mystery and poignant social commentary.

This debut is a must-read, combining historical richness with a gripping plot and complex characters, solidifying its place among the best historical fiction books of the year.

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Thanks for joining me! For more of my Book Review Round-Ups, check my Book Lists Here!

Most Anticipated Books 2024- Historical Fiction I Can’t Wait to Read!

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Sneak Peek First Edition: Ruth Returns!

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Whether I am reading or writing, I always find it exciting to welcome back characters that I have come to know, watched grow and rooted for. If Ruth is one of those characters for you, I am delighted to share that she has made her return! Enjoy a sneak peek into her world and find out how to read more of her story now.

Sneak Peek of my newest Ruth book!

Chayele’s building finally came into sight. It still felt so strange seeing where Chayele now lived with her husband. It was like a different world from the Lower East Side. Friedrich had grown up in the Yorkville neighborhood with its German shops, bakeries and breweries. People here still walked around wearing traditional lederhosen and dirndls. For Ruth, it recalled her brief stay all those years ago in Germany with the smuggler– the kindness of Gerta, her ginger cookies and the taste of that golden, hoppy beverage for the first time.

Ruth had since tasted beer many times in America– most often right here in the many saloons of Yorkville with Chayele and Friedrich. But since Prohibition was declared, the distinctive and once prevalent smell of hops in the air was missing. Some of the breweries were trying to offer low alcohol content beers, but the taste was noticeably different and they weren’t catching on. Ruth noticed more shuttered saloons than before. She wondered how much longer the remaining saloons and breweries could hold out.

She entered Chayele’s building and climbed the stairs. The smooth banister felt like butter beneath her fingers, bringing to mind Tatty’s boasts about the architecture on their own “new” building. Yes, their new building had been a step up, for sure. But all the buildings up here on the Upper East Side made theirs look shabby in comparison. There was also just a different kind of tenant here in the building, more moneyed and put together.

Have you added The Girl in the Newsroom to your reading list yet? Add it to your Goodreads shelf HERE.

Sneak Peek Second Edition: The Girl in the Newsroom

Sneak Peek Third Edition: The Girl in the Newsroom

Sneak Peek Fourth Edition: The Girl in the Newsroom

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The History of Historical Fiction & Why it’s Popular…

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I often get asked why historical fiction? Why is historical fiction the genre I devour cover to cover? And why write historical fiction when it’s one of the most cumbersome, challenging genres to write? I think to answer that effectively, I first have to answer what is the history of historical fiction and how exactly do we define it?

A Complex Genre

Before we can examine the history of historical fiction, we need to discuss how to even define this genre as a whole.

Historical fiction is one of the trickiest genres to define. If you look it up anywhere you’ll get twelve different explanations. A genre of fiction that takes place in the past. A style of fiction whose events must take place at least fifty years ago etc. Those are the generic dictionary type definitions. To me, I think this is best answered by one of my favorite quotes by novelist Guy Vanderhaeghe. He says– “History tells us what people do: historical fiction helps us imagine how they felt.”

The History of Historical Fiction

The origin of historical fiction is also difficult to pinpoint for similar reasons. Historians and researchers have pointed to a few different origin points for the genre. For example, some have argued Homer and The Illiad (762 BCE) or Geoffrey Chaucer’s The Knight’s Tale (1476) could be origin examples. Others have pointed to Shakespeare’s Richard II (1597). Just like the varying definitions, interpretations are wide and varied on this point. Partly because these works would have been written during the time they take place rather in the past, so do they really qualify under current definitions? Depends who you ask… The only general consensus is that the genre has been around for awhile and continues to grow in popularity.

Where the History & Creativity Combine

So, why is historical fiction so popular? We always want to connect with the characters we’re reading about. But what if the character is based on someone who actually lived? That completely ups the stakes! Historical fiction not only allows us to learn about history, we get to experience it with the character. This blurring of fact and fiction is what makes the historical fiction genre special. It intrigues readers into wanting to google facts and learn more as they read.

The other thing that makes historical fiction special is it’s the only genre that’s all encompassing and inclusive of everyone and all tastes. You like spy action thrillers? Check out a spy action thriller that takes place during WWII and guess what- it’s still considered historical fiction! Romance? Check out Outlander and every other time travel or Regency historical romance on the shelves. If you google examples of historical fiction, you’ll find examples of every genre imaginable that just take place in the past.

Are you won over? Do you now feel you can not only defend historical fiction’s honor, but even understand why historical fiction is the best genre ever?

Historical Fiction Stats to Consider!

I’ll leave you with this to consider. Just over half (54%) of Americans read at least one book last year. Surprisingly, the largest age group who read? Millenials. 80% of respondents between the ages of 18-35 read a book in the last twelve months. And here’s the final kicker- Historical Fiction was the third most popular genre read, falling only after mysteries and fantasies. 25% of all respondents across the range of all ages read a historical fiction book last year. It was also one of the genres least influenced by gender, enjoyed by both men and women almost equally.

So, now do you see why I’m so fascinated/ obsessed with this genre? Thankfully, I’m not alone and I love to share. So, to enjoy some of my favorite historical fiction books check out my Book Lists page below! Enjoy!