California Country Boy: Book 1: Born Young

California Country Boy: Book 1: Born Young (Volume 1) Paperback – October 26, 2014

by Harold E. Grice (Author, Illustrator)

Dear Polly, Have you read Harold’s Country Boy book? It’s a humdinger! Sure brings back the memories—the farm, the boys, Helen and Roy and those kids. Talk about mischief, swiping the carrots and then taking the tie-down rope for a swing. Never saw Oscar so mad as when the load came off. Course he couldn’t wallop ‘im with Helen right there. Then that thing with the dog, blood all over, near scared us to death. And that old sow gonna eat him. Never been so frightened as when the burglar took off with him. I thought he’d do something terrible to the boy. I tell you, Polly, the little scamp kept me up nights wondering what he was a gonna get into next. Made me feel right at home again. Bye for now, GRAN’MA Be sure to read Harold’s “California Country Boy” You hear me?

ABOUT THE AUTHOR:

Harold Grice, owner of Grice Engineering in Salinas, is a member of Central Coast Writers branch of the California Writers Club and writes memoir, poetry, and screenplays. Harold gives an intimate look at how the past changes when we see it here, in the future.

AUTHOR BLOG: CALIFORNIACOUNTRYBOY.COM

Product Details

Series: California Country Boy
Paperback: 188 pages
Publisher: Park Place Publications; first edition (October 26, 2014)
Language: English
ISBN-10: 1935530437
ISBN-13: 978-1935530435
Product Dimensions: 6 x 0.5 x 9 inches
$14.95

BUY NOW!

September 8, 2015September 8, 2015

Pioneer Poetry: A Quaker Reflects on the Civil War Era in the United States

Pioneer Poetry: A Quaker Reflects on the Civil War Era in the United States Paperback– August 8, 2015

by Matthew Willis (Author), Phyllis Ruth Edwards(Editor)

Poems Related to Social and Political Issues, Nature, Morality, Humor, Love, and Death While the views of the events of the time portrayed herein are strictly those of the poet, they reflect what may have been a typical layperson’s perspective of the events he observed. As a Quaker, he stoutly maintains his values and beliefs, including hatred of slavery, passionate reverence for the interpretations of the Bible common during his lifetime, disdain for users of alcohol for purposes of intoxication, and love of nature’s gifts in all their magnificent forms. The editor is convinced that the poet would, were he living among us today, share her sincere hopes that the works contained herein will inspire, illuminate, and entertain historians and lovers of literature who happen upon them. … from Wensleydale to Wisconsin …

About the Author

Matthew Willis Born in Carperby, Wensleydale, UK in 1799 Died in Iowa County, Wisconsin, USA in 1883 After publishing his Mountain Minstrel Vol. 1 in England in 1834, Matthew Willis married Jane Longmire from near Lake Windermere in Westmorland. From then until he came to America in 1845, his time was spent in making a living as a farmer. All the while he dreamed of the new world and the freedom it would bring to his children and grandchildren. (i.e., freedom from discrimination against Quakers that the Willis family suffered in England) In 1845 Matthew Willis and family planned to sail to America. Matthew and Jane, their sons, John (b. 1837) and Thomas (b. 1841), and baby Matthew (b. 1843), their daughter, Elizabeth (b. 1835), with their friends, assembled at the wharf while the waiting “Wind Jammer” tugged at its moorings. Elizabeth, their 10-year-old daughter, became very frightened and hysterical. Ocean travel at that time was dangerous and Elizabeth wanted to remain in England with her aunt and uncle. The aunt and uncle wanted to keep the girl and promised that, when she was educated, they would send her to America. The parents agreed, thinking that God may have planned to save little Elizabeth, should they be shipwrecked. So the ship set sail without her. The voyage took more time than the travelers anticipated. Food ran low, and little Matthew, a babe in arms, sickened and died. As the ship was still far from shore, the baby was buried in the sea. At last the family arrived with their two little boys on America’s east coast. They came slowly westward by way of the Ohio River and stagecoach to Mifflin in Iowa County, Wisconsin. There, they “took up” land and built a home. This home they called “Rama”, which means “She would not be comforted.” (Matthew 2:18) Jane continued to grieve for her daughter, Elizabeth in England, and Matthew beneath the waves. Later, seven more children were born to Matthew and Jane: James (b. 1845), Rose Ellen (b. 1847), Richard Grainger (b. 1850), Anthony (b. 1852), Margaret Jane (b. 1854), Alice Ann (b. 1856), and Robert (b. 1859). Matthew Willis died in 1883 at the age of 84. You will learn about his life in America from his poems. He liked America, but loved England.

Product Details

Paperback: 182 pages
Publisher: Park Place Publications; 1 edition (August 8, 2015)
Language: English
ISBN-10: 1935530984
ISBN-13: 978-1935530985
Product Dimensions: 5 x 0.5 x 11 inches
$19.95

BUY NOW!

September 8, 2015September 8, 2015

Three Women, Three Voices, Three Plays

Three Women, Three Voices, Three Plays

by Tom Parks

Three plays, two essentially monologues, include portraits of three celebrated women writers, Dorothy Parker, Zelda Fitzgerald, and Gertrude Stein. The author has, for the most part, let the characters speak for themselves-to tell their stories. Biographical dramas ideally suited for regional and community theaters. For audiences who love theater. An actor’s dream!

ABOUT THE AUTHOR:

The author is a playwright and essayist. He spent twenty-five years working as a behind-the-camera professional in the entertainment business before settling in the small California village of Carmel-by-the-Sea. He has written, produced and directed many plays, musicals and dramas on the California Coast. He lives today in a small, forested cottage with his best friend, Mr. Toby, a six year old Maltese.

Product Details

Paperback: 138 pages
Publisher: Park Place Publications (June 5, 2015)
Language: English
ISBN-10: 1935530569
ISBN-13: 978-1935530565
Product Dimensions: 5 x 0.3 x 8 inches
$14.99

BUY NOW!

September 8, 2015September 8, 2015

Flaps Up! Poetry, Prose, and Pictures buy Howard Brunn

Flaps Up! Poetry, Prose, and Pictures

by Howard Brunn

“Flaps Up! is a book from the heart of an amazing man. It is a chronological journey, through poetry and photos, of his life and love. But it is also an eloquent statement from the wisdom and optimism of a man who has lived life to its fullest.” – Phillip Butler, CDR, USN (ret.), Warrior for Peace & Justice, Author -“Three Lives of a Warrior,” more than seven years as prisoner of war in Vietnam
ABOUT THE AUTHOR:

Howard Brunn is an iconic Carmel-by-the-Sea figure, rare in having been raised and schooled here, and departed for war from and returned here. Howard became a successful and popular local businessman, activist, city councilman, friend, parent and devoted husband.

Born in San Francisco and raised in Carmel, when his father opened a garage here in 1926. Brunn has been successful in just about every endeavor he has chosen. His life story is closely entwined with the history of the village he loves.

Howard attended the Sunset Grammar School, then went to the newly opened Carmel High School and graduated with its second class. He developed a taste for the theater. He acted in school plays, and, a natural leader, was elected president of the student body.

While in high school, he turned his attention to aviation, an interest that has never left him. Shortly before Pearl Harbor, he graduated from high school. He passed the exam for Aviation Cadet and went directly into the Army Air Corps. Stationed in Corsica during the war, he flew seventy combat missions, piloting B-25 bombers in the Mediterranean and European Theaters. He earned the Distinguished Flying Cross, the Air Medal with eleven oak leaf clusters, the European Theater Ribbon with four battle stars, and two Presidential Unit Citations.

After separation from the Air Force, Howard used the G.I. Bill and studied radio and theatre arts in Pasadena and Westwood. In 1955 he was back in Carmel-by-the-Sea.

Product Details

• Paperback: 104 pages
• Publisher: Park Place Publications (June 26, 2015)
• Language: English
• ISBN-10: 1935530755
• ISBN-13: 978-1935530756
• Product Dimensions: 8 x 0.3 x 8 inches
• $20

BUY NOW!

September 8, 2015September 8, 2015

Pursuit by Brandon Wiggins

Pursuit: Ya Kuwinda (Volume 1) Paperback & Ebook – March 11, 2015

by Brandon Wiggins

When Skyler Morgan Smith sets off for Africa to search for a rare plant thought to have amazing healing powers, she assumes her biggest challenge will come from nature. But stampeding elephants, disease-carrying mosquitoes, thirst and hunger, deadly snakes and white-water rapids are only the beginning. The brilliant and beautiful botanist quickly learns that the real danger comes from her fellow humans in the form of greedy corporate titans, corrupt politicians, and brutal local gangs. Separated from her team and thrust into an inhospitable environment in the Democratic Republic of Congo, Skyler finds she must rely on her wits, determination, and strength to survive—plus her specialized knowledge of the world of plants.

This impressive debut novel combines an appealing heroine, non-stop action, an exotic African setting, whip-smart humor, romance, and fascinating science for an epic adventure worthy of Indiana Jones. More than just another thriller, Pursuit weaves provocative and timely observations on women’s roles in the world power structure, the imbalance between our consumer culture and the well-being of the planet, and the correlation between the human condition and the natural world.

Author Brandon Wiggins brings a wealth of knowledge of politics, science, nature, and current events to this engrossing and entertaining work of fiction. Let Pursuit sweep you away on an unforgettable journey from California’s Big Sur coast to an opulent San Francisco mansion, a luxurious corporate jet, the spectacular beauty and infinite peril of Africa, and finally to the corridors of power in Washington, D.C. Follow Skyler’s transformation from naïve graduate student to confident woman, battling ruthless corruption at the highest level. Pursuit is a special tale that will keep you up all night reading—and will give you something to think about for long afterwards.

ABOUT THE AUTHOR:

Brandon Wiggins holds degrees in botany, horticulture, and business administration. She is the GM, CEO, and CVO of Vision Plantscaping Inc., a large landscape design and contracting business in Carmel, California. Throughout her career Brandon has won academic, business, and congressional awards. AUTHOR BLOG: BRANDONWIGGINSAUTHOR.COM

Product Details

Series: Pursuit
Paperback: 302 pages
Publisher: Park Place Publications; First edition (March 11, 2015)
Language: English
ISBN-10: 0996159606
ISBN-13: 978-0996159609
Product Dimensions: 6 x 0.7 x 9 inches
$15.95

BUY NOW

April 6, 2015

Short HOT Flashes

“Short HOT Flashes”

One Hundred and One Stories of 101 Words

by David Rasch and illustrated by Jason Cirimele

An Illustrated Collection of Flash Fiction with Sketches

5×8 • 62 pages • $10.00

BUY NOW

ISBN 978-1935530954

November 17, 2014

Write & Publish Your Guided Autobiography Book—January 2015 Classes Now Forming

CLICK TO Watch video of people sharing their experiences with Guided Autobiography.

Bruce Feiler wrote a fascinating article in the NY Times He said, “The single most important thing you can do for your family may be the simplest of all: develop a strong family narrative.”

In other words, the children who know the most about their family history—the traditions, the set-backs and successes of parents and grandparents—had the best odds of bouncing back from hard times.

Write and Get Books of Your Life Stories in Just 99 Days!

Classes are now forming in Pacific Grove: January 21 to March 25, 2015, (10 weeks) at the Masonic Lodge, 130 Congress Avenue. Two time slots are available: 12:30-2:30 p.m. or 4-6 p.m. Call for other class times and procedure to follow if you have to miss a class. Reservations are required as space is limited. Call 831-649-6640.

What is Guided Autobiography? A weekly 2 hour class meeting over a ten week period, based on the Guided Autobiography method developed by pioneering gerontologist James Birren. This is a proven program to help you get your life story on paper by breaking it down into short, easy-to-write themes and by turning the process into a fun, social event by sharing your stories with others in the class. No previous writing experience necessary and no computer or special equipment needed. — Only $245 – that’s less than $25 per class!.

Turn Your Class Experience into a Published Book! This option gives you the 10-week class program described above, PLUS: YOU WILL RECEIVE 5 PRINTED BOOKS BY APRIL 30, 2015. We will design, format, publish, and print 5 soft-cover books for you, prepared from your stories (up to 30,000 words) that you type into a Microsoft Word.doc, plus 2 photos per class theme that we will scan at each class.—$795.

Intermediate Writing and Book Package: All of the above, PLUS: We will professionally edit your book and publish it on Amazon. —$1495.

Premier Writing and Book Packages: All of the above, PLUS: We’ll turn your printed book into a Kindle e-book and launch a Custom Marketing Campaign that can include a press release, 100 postcards, 100 business cards, a web page for your book, a blog, and other Social Media. —Individual pricing based on choice of services you desire.

ALSO AVAILABLE: Custom design services, private coaching and instruction are available. You may add additional book pages and photos, print hardcover books, video and audio recordings and production with upload to “Keepers of Our Culture” YouTube Channel. Services priced individually for your custom package.

RESERVE NOW – SPACES ARE LIMITED TO 8 PER CLASS – RESERVATIONS ARE REQUIRED

Patricia Hamilton - Joyce Krieg — Class instructors/facilitators: Patricia Hamilton and Joyce Krieg.

INSTRUCTORS Patricia Hamilton and Joyce Krieg are certified by The Birren Center to teach the Guided Autobiography method developed by James E. Birren. Books will be published by Park Place Publications.

TO RESERVE or for more information, please call Patricia Hamilton at 831-649-6640 or e-mail:

Error: Contact form not found.

November 5, 2014

“Self-Discovery: Prose” by Sam Harris

“Self-Discovery: Prose”

a COLLECTION OF PROSE by Sam Harris

Prose by Sam Harris, Carmel artist and writer.

8.5×5.5 • 140 pages • $6.65

BUY NOW

ISBN 978-1935530848

November 5, 2014

“Walking for Our Lives” by Donna Rankin Love

“Walking for Our Lives”

a MEMOIR by Donna Rankin Love

“This child will never walk,” the doctor said. “Wanta bet?” retorted her mother. Fifty-nine years later, Donna Love walked over 5,000 miles in three peace walks in the United States and in Russia. Every step was a step toward peace. In Walking For Our Lives, Donna’s third book in the three years since she turned 80, she tells how these peace walks alerted citizens of the world to the futility of the nuclear arms race. She chronicles her evolution from a passive homemaker to an involved peacemaker, and into a life where anything’s possible and one person does make a difference. Let there be peace…

“Journalist, mother and author, in Walking For Our Lives Love captures a combination of pioneer spirit and American zeal that brings back a time when nothing seemed impossible. I felt right there through the heat, sweat and each turn in the road. This must-read book is a reminder of who we are as American women—true, strong, and tenacious. Love’s compelling story unfolds on the backdrop of an America in the midst of change that continues to this day, a reminder that individuals contributing together can make a difference.” — Marsha L. Keeffer, MBA

“Donna Love, proper society wife and mother, boldly set out to walk 5000 miles across two continents for peace. Participating in the Great Peace March across the United States and the Peace Walk in Russia transformed her life and her perspective. From page one, I was caught up in Donna’s story—watching her change from passive homemaker to passionate peacemaker. This is a story not to be missed!” — Laura Davis, author of The Courage to Heal and I Thought We’d Never Speak Again And let it begin with me.

314 pages • 6×9 • $18.00

BUY NOW

ISBN 978-1935530503

About the Author

Since my 80th year, I have written and published three books of stories based on my rich and varied life. I nurtured four sons born within five years. When they left for school and their father left, too, I returned to school for teaching credentials and opened a tutoring center for dyslexic students. After 15 years, I heard about the Great Peace March and walked from Los Angeles to New York to Washington, DC, then from Leningrad (S. Petersburg) to Moscow for Peace. When 230 Soviets came to the United States, for a peace walk, I joined. Born with crippled feet, I have walked more than 5,000 miles for a single cause. Then I remodeled four houses; two in Mexico, one on a farm in Oregon, and a cottage above Monterey Bay in California and married again. For a while. I am keeping the cottage. Each day I write. And speak to audiences about the pleasures in telling our stories. I believe that writing our stories gives us an opportunity to understand our families, our culture, and ourselves. That understanding often translates into forgiveness, which is fundamental to peaceful co-existence. One more step toward peace in the world. To people who are intimidated by writing, I say, “Write your lives one tale at a time. Remember, you don’t have to start at the beginning.” My first book, Tell Me a Story, is a compilation of 43 short stories that view aspects of my heritage and life. Initially, it was a Christmas gift for members of my family, but has been available on Amazon since its publication. The second book, To Make the House Complete, is about the four houses and marriage that needed work. Walking For Our Lives is twice as long as the others, about 300 pages, and gives an autobiographical perspective to the Great Peace March for Global Nuclear Disarmament, 1986, and to the other peace marches in the United States and in Russia. The memoir follows the journey from my life of comfortable conformity to becoming comfortable with myself. Through the tales, readers discover how my experiences walking for peace transformed my opinions of what is important and what is worth fighting for from the easy choices to the meaningful ones.

November 5, 2014

“Dearest Umeno” by Nancy Tamura Shikashio

“Dearest Umeno…”

a BIOGRAPHY by Nancy Tamura Shikashio

The life of Katsuchika Tamura, with letters to his wife, Umeno Tamura, from American Internment Camps, 1941-1946

8.5×11 • 308 pages • $17.96

BUY NOW

ISBN 978-1935530336

Customer Reviews

Highly recommend!!! Such a lovely book with insightful historical content. (By Shelby on August 25, 2014)
Awesome book because I’m a big fan of hstory. (By Hazel Shikashio on August 25, 2014)