WHY READ
Reading is essential to the human brain because it actively engages and strengthens neural pathways, fostering cognitive growth and resilience across a lifetime. Unlike passive activities like watching TV, reading requires decoding symbols, processing language, and imagining scenarios, which rewires the brain for better function and adaptability.
Key Ways Reading Benefits the Brain
Builds and Enhances Neural
Connectivity: Reading activates multiple brain regions, including the temporal lobe for processing sounds and words, Broca’s area for language production, and white matter pathways that facilitate communication between hemispheres. Over time, it increases connectivity in areas like the left temporal cortex, which is linked to comprehension and narrative processing. This can even alter somatosensory and motor cortex activity, making readers feel immersed in the story as if experiencing it physically.
Boosts Memory and Cognitive Function:
Regular reading sharpens memory by challenging the brain to recall details, characters, and plots, which strengthens hippocampal activity. It also improves concentration by training sustained focus and trains the brain’s predictive neural networks to better anticipate and interpret real-world events.
Expands Vocabulary and Knowledge Base:
Decoding words and contexts during reading builds a richer lexicon and foundational knowledge, enriching overall cognitive depth and problem-solving abilities.
Reduces Stress and Supports Mental Health:
Reading lowers cortisol levels, promoting relaxation and better sleep, which indirectly safeguards brain health. It may also slow age-related memory decline by keeping cognitive reserves robust.
In essence, reading isn’t just a skill—it’s a workout for the brain that promotes neuroplasticity, the ability to form new connections, making it vital for intellectual and emotional well-being at any age.
Internet Archive is a non-profit library of millions of free texts, movies, software, music, websites, and more. Give it a try and read really old books. https://archive.org/
The Black Rose
Thomas B. Costain
As stated by the author, this story “grows out of a legend, a most beguiling and romantic legened which is found in a very few old English histories”.
“Solid in its facts, colorful and romantic…a rich and remarkable historical tapestry.” —Christian Science Monitor
401 pages, Hardcover First published January 1, 1945
About the author
Thomas B. Costain
Costain was born in Brantford, Ontario to John Herbert Costain and Mary Schultz. He attended high school there at the Brantford Collegiate Institute. Before graduating from high school he had written four novels, one of which was a 70,000 word romance about Maurice of Nassau, Prince of Orange. These early novels were rejected by publishers.
His first writing success came in 1902 when the Brantford Courier accepted a mystery story from him, and he became a reporter there (for five dollars a week). He was an editor at the Guelph Daily Mercury between 1908 and 1910. He married Ida Randolph Spragge (1888–1975) in York, Ontario on January 12, 1910. The couple had two children, Molly (Mrs. Howard Haycraft) and Dora (Mrs. Henry Darlington Steinmetz). Also in 1910, Costain joined the Maclean Publishing Group where he edited three trade journals. Beginning in 1914, he was a staff writer for and, from 1917, editor of Toronto-based Maclean’s magazine. His success there brought him to the attention of The Saturday Evening Post in New York City where he was fiction editor for fourteen years.
In 1920 he became a naturalized U.S. citizen. He also worked for Doubleday Books as an editor 1939-1946. He was the head of 20th Century Fox’s bureau of literary development (story department) from 1934 to 1942.
In 1940, he wrote four short novels but was “enough of an editor not to send them out”. He next planned to write six books in a series he called “The Stepchildren of History”. He would write about six interesting but unknown historical figures. For his first, he wrote about the seventeenth-century pirate John Ward aka Jack Ward. In 1942, he realized his longtime dream when this first novel For My Great Folly was published, and it became a bestseller with over 132,000 copies sold. The New York Times reviewer stated at the end of the review “there will be no romantic-adventure lover left unsatisfied.” In January 1946 he “retired” to spend the rest of his life writing, at a rate of about 3,000 words a day.
Raised as a Baptist, he was reported in the 1953 Current Biography to be an attendant of the Protestant Episcopal Church. He was described as a handsome, tall, broad-shouldered man with a pink and white complexion, clear blue eyes, and a slight Canadian accent. He was white-haired by the time he began to write novels. He loved animals and could not even kill a bug (but he also loved bridge, and he did not extend the same policy to his partners). He also loved movies and the theatre (he met his future wife when she was performing Ruth in the The Pirates of Penzance).
Costain’s work is a mixture of commercial history (such as The White and The Gold, a history of New France to around 1720) and fiction that relies heavily on historic events (one review stated it was hard to tell where history leaves off and apocrypha begins). His most popular novel was The Black Rose (1945), centred in the time and actions of Bayan of the Baarin also known as Bayan of the Hundred Eyes. Costain noted in his foreword that he initially intended the book to be about Bayan and Edward I, but became caught up in the legend of Thomas a Becket’s parents: an English knight married to an Eastern girl. The book was a selection of the Literary Guild with a first printing of 650,000 copies and sold over two million copies in its first year.
His research led him to believe that Richard III was a great monarch tarred by conspiracies, after his death, with the murder of the princes in the tower. Costain supported his theories with documentation, suggesting that the real murderer was Henry VII.
Costain died in 1965 at his New York City home of a heart attack at the age of 80. He is buried in the Farringdon Independent Church Cemetery in Brantford.
https://www.goodreads.com/en/book/show/401921.The_Black_Rose
FOR THE CHILDREN
@WilliamFDrishJr has a Physics degree from IIT. He is an author/Illustrator of “Billy’s Books of 1950s Science Fantasy”. https://amazon.com/paperback
The Little Martian Foundling Meets His New Family on Planet Earth Herewith an excerpt from my next 1950s-Style Science Fantasy: ‘SUPER CHILD J-9’ (3rd Edition, 2025) to be published soon as an Amazon paperback edition. Also look for ROBOTS (1956) JJT Texas Robotics Corp. in Paris, Texas was making WALTs and GORTs decades before Elon was born! (At least in my alternate-world United Texas. LOL) Herewith an illustration from my forthcoming Amazon paperback novel “SUPER CHILD J-9” (3rd Edition, 2025).
Billy’s Books of 1950s Science Fantasy (4 book series)
Paperback Edition
All the books in this collection are G-rated, suitable for young readers 9 thru 18+, all are illustrated with from 100+ to 200+ full-color montages and original paintings by the author, and all are handy 7.25×10.5 in. paperbacks printed on quality paper with glossy covers.
THE STORY
It was 4:30 AM in Clayton when Uncle Jeremiah’s 1950 Nord pickup air-truck turned into the big main gate of Jeremiah’s junkyard and drove over to the section of the yard where little Pinky’s lab, a converted garage, was located.
A few minutes earlier, Jeremiah had picked up Ernest and Kathy in the alley behind Biggs’s General Store. Pinky Conway—who was staying at Kathy’s father’s house, across the alley from Mr. Biggs’ store, until Kathy and Ernest got married and adopted him—with his golden retriever Saber in tow, had driven to Jeremiah’s junkyard ahead of the others in his two-seat air-scooter. At 4:34 AM, it was daybreak in Clayton.
The Wee I popped into view as it emerged from a low-hanging cloud bank edged by beautiful bright pink highlights due to the rising Sun in the beautiful purple sky, in sharp contrast to the twilight blue shadows that lingered in Jeremiah’s junkyard.
As the Wee I lowered for a gentle landing a few yards from the old Nord pickup, Pinky got out of his air-scooter, followed by Saber, and they hurried over to the little flying saucer. As soon as the Wee I’s pilot’s and co-pilot’s hatches opened and swung up, Pinky and Saber were there to greet Jeanine and Toby.
“Toby, this is Pinky. He is going to be your big brother,” said Jeanine. Toby twisted in Jeanine’s arms and demanded to be set down next to his new four-foot-tall “big brother,” and he shouted joyously, “Pinky!” “Hi ya, Toby!” shouted Pinky, every bit as joyously, as his new “little brother” had. As Toby gave him a bear hug that nearly knocked him over, Pinky looked at Saber and said, “Gee, Saber, a new little brother who was not delivered by the stork, but by a UFO in Uncle Jeremiah’s junkyard.
Stinky and the other kids at school sure will not believe this one!” Saber just whimpered softly, but his tail was wagging even faster now, because it was his turn to bask in Toby’s pure and simple unconditional love. “Saber!” As the toddler hugged his neck, Saber closed his eyes and just enjoyed the love flowing his way. Instinctively, instantly, Saber knew he now had a second little boy to protect, even if he had to give his life to do so. By this time, Ernest, Kathy, and Jeremiah had climbed out of the pickup and were walking toward the UFO.
Kathy had tears of joy in her eyes, and Ernest was smiling from ear to ear. Ernest bent over and kissed Kathy on the cheek, then patted Jeremiah on the back. Jeremiah, in his own silent way, was just as excited as the others. When Toby saw Kathy, he toddled over to her as fast as his little legs could carry him and reached up to her.
“Mom Kathy!” cried the toddler joyously, as Kathy picked him up. He hugged Kathy’s neck, and then, while still in her arms, he reached out and hugged Ernest’s neck. “Dad Ernest!” “Jumpin’ Jupiter!” said Ernest. “We sure are gonna try and be the best mom and dad a kid ever had, Toby. And this is Uncle Jeremiah.” “Hi to Uncle Jeremiah,” said Toby. “Mighty glad to meet you, young fella,” said Jeremiah.
Ernest looked over at Jeanine, who seemed somehow to have been forgotten amidst the outpouring of joy going on all around her. “Thank you, Jeanine,” he said softly, “for bringing Toby to us.” “Thank you, Ernest. You and Kathy will make great parents for Toby.” Jeanine said that with a little catch in her throat and a tear in her eye. It had been only three days since she had picked up the little blanketed toddler, who had been lying on the floor of the dark side passage down in the Lost Race city on Mars, after being chased by a ragtag mob of Inheritor children. From the first moment she had comforted the crying child, she had formed a bond with him. Like her, Toby was an outcast, rejected and taunted by the people the Angels (the Krell) had sent him to live among. Now, so soon, she was going to leave him, and yet she knew it was for the best. Like Jeanine, Toby had completed his mission for the Angels and then he had been discarded like a dulled tool that was no longer of any use to them.
But wait! An unsettling thought welled up from Jeanine’s subconscious: Was that true? She had only assumed that to be the case. Toby or not 2-B? That was the question. Was the little Martian just her Toby, the discarded Krell tool, and not the little autonomous machine 2-B, still guided by his Krell programming? While everyone was celebrating the newly-formed family, Jeanine thought it was a good time for her to bid farewell to Ernest, Kathy, Jeremiah, Pinky, and Toby. The toddler was so caught up in the euphoria of the moment that it did not register in his mind that Jeanine was leaving until the hatches of the little UFO’s transparent dome swung down and shut. As the Wee I rose slowly above the junkyard, Jeanine looked down through the starboard side of the dome, down on the small family group standing next to Jeremiah’s pickup truck.
As they dwindled in the distance, she sensed that Toby realized she was leaving and had started to cry. Then Jeanine started to cry, and she had second thoughts about the grand plan she had thought up on the way back from Mars: to install Toby into the family that Kathy and Ernest would provide when they got married. Maybe she should have kept Toby with her.
But second thoughts or no, she knew it was the right thing to do. Toby needed to stay in Clayton with Ernest and Kathy. Beyond that, Jeanine had a premonition: By taking Toby away from OWL, she had the feeling that she was removing him from harm’s way. She tele-thought to Toby: “Don’t cry, Toby. Remember, you are not a baby, anymore, You’re a big boy.” “Toby big boy. But Toby misses Sis,” sobbed the toddler in telepathic reply. “You still have me,” tele-thought Jeanine in a soothing tone. “And now you have Kathy, Ernest, Pinky, Jeremiah, Saber, and Mr. Biggs.
You have a family. And do not forget: you can tele-think to me anytime, no matter where I am, and I will be there. Why, I could be clear across the Galaxy, and you would still be able to tele-think to me.” “Another quantum projection?” asked Toby. “Smokin’ rockets, you little stinker, how did you know about that?” asked Jeanine. “TIM (The Intelligent Machine),” replied Toby. “Well, anyway, even in another quantum branch, I will only be a thought away. And Sis will always love you, Toby.” “Only a thought away,” echoed Toby. Then he added the thought, “Toby always loves Sis.”
The Unruly Cactus is supported by locals. It is an independent and local bookstore. You can shop online at bookshop.org.
https://www.audible.com/pd/Wild-Ride-Adapted-for-Young-Readers-Audiobook
Meet Hayley Arceneaux (@ArceneauxHayley):
SpaceX astronaut, childhood cancer survivor, physician assistant, global speaker, avid traveler, and author of Wild Ride (now adapted for young readers—listen here:
https://www.audible.com/pd/Wild-Ride-Adapted-for-Young-Readers-Audiobook).
At just 29, she became the youngest American to orbit Earth, proving that dreams can outshine any diagnosis. In a heartfelt gesture, Hayley recently donated her actual SpaceX spacesuit to St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital—where it truly belongs, inspiring the brave patients who’ve fought so hard. “It’s finally home,” she shared, beaming with excitement.
For Hayley, this isn’t just a donation; it’s a powerful symbol of hope and possibility. She envisions it reminding children and adults alike that life after cancer can overflow with achieved dreams—no limits in sight. “Sharing it with the patients is incredibly heartwarming and emotional,” Hayley says. The kids are already obsessed—many lit up, declaring they can’t wait to suit up in their own one day!
Dive into Hayley’s inspiring journey through her book, and learn more at https://www.hayleyarceneaux.com/. What’s your wildest dream? Let’s chase it together.
THE STORY
A young reader’s adaptation of the story of the youngest American to ever orbit the Earth—cancer survivor Hayley Arceneaux—who shows us all that when we face our fears with hope and faith, the extraordinary is possible
“Hayley will capture your heart as she proves that even the wildest dreams can come true. Young minds will leave awestruck and eager to chase their own wild ride.”—Emily Calandrelli, host of Netflix’s Emily’s Wonder Lab
“It may be hard to believe while I’m gravity-bound on my bedroom floor, but if there’s one thing I’ve learned in my time on Earth, it’s that as long as you keep saying yes, everything is possible,” says Arceneaux.
In this adaptation of her heartfelt memoir, especially inspiring for middle-grade listeners, Arceneaux shares the details of her wild ride with never-before-told stories written especially for kids coming to this edition. Arceneaux not only tells listeners what it was like to go to space—from training in a fighter jet to lifting off in a Dragon capsule—but she also offers stories from her childhood: things that she faced at the hospital when going through cancer treatment, what she had to overcome when she went back to school, and the courage it took to dream big dreams for her teenage and adult years.
For students navigating a time of uncertainty, and for the adults and educators who seek to offer them hope, Arceneaux’s uplifting story is one that will inspire kids for years to come. She offers wisdom and courage to anyone fighting against the odds, and shows us that dreaming is always possible.
©2023 Hayley Arceneaux (P)2023 Listening Library
https://www.hayleyarceneaux.com/
https://space.mit.edu/home/tegmark
“How to Win Modeling Contracts: The Secrets of Modeling and Fashion Design”
by Rose Marie Leo is an eBook (also presented as an online course) that serves as a practical guide for aspiring models looking to secure contracts in the fashion and entertainment industries. Drawing from the author’s 30+ years of experience as a model, fashion designer, and owner of a model and talent management company, it reveals insider strategies to stand out in competitive auditions and applications.
Key Topics Covered
Types of Modeling Opportunities: Techniques for applying to diverse gigs, including runway shows, stage performances, television commercials, promotional events, bikini contests, charity fundraisers, seasonal campaigns, and fashion shows.
Personal Development: Advice on enhancing your appearance through exercise, diet, body language, and grooming; building a unique personal style and image; and preparing confidently for open calls and special events.
Industry Insights: Tips on what agencies and designers truly seek in talent—emphasizing strength, desire to succeed, and practical skills over promises of guaranteed success. The book emphasizes empowerment and realism, helping readers groom themselves to meet professional standards while fostering the confidence needed to thrive. It’s ideal for beginners or those transitioning into modeling, with a focus on both on-camera and behind-the-scenes aspects of the field.
Key Strategies from “How to Win Modeling Contracts” by Rose Marie Leo
Drawing from Rose Marie Leo’s extensive experience in modeling and talent management, the book outlines practical, insider-driven strategies to help aspiring models secure contracts. Below is a summary of the core approaches, organized by theme for clarity:
Navigating the Industry Realistically
Agency Selection and Contracts: Research reputable agencies via industry directories; avoid those promising instant fame. Negotiate contracts emphasizing fair pay, usage rights, and exclusivity clauses—always consult a lawyer for big deals.
Diversify Income Streams: Start with accessible entry points like local events or social media influencing to gain experience and clips. Track progress with a journal to refine what works. These strategies emphasize empowerment through preparation and realism, avoiding “get-rich-quick” myths. Rose stresses that success stems from consistent effort and self-advocacy, making the book a road map for sustainable careers in modeling and beyond. For deeper dives, the eBook includes worksheets and real-world examples.
Mastering Applications and Auditions
Tailor Your Approach to Opportunity Types: Customize submissions for specific gigs like runway shows, TV commercials, promotional events, bikini contests, or fashion shows. Research the event’s vibe and requirements, then highlight relevant skills (e.g., poise for runway, energy for promos) in your portfolio and cover letter.
Stand Out in Open Calls: Arrive early, dressed in a signature style that reflects your personal brand. Practice concise pitches (30-60 seconds) focusing on your unique strengths, such as adaptability or charisma, rather than generic looks.
Building a Professional Image and Portfolio
Develop a Signature Style: Create a cohesive “look book” with high-quality photos showcasing versatility (e.g., editorial, commercial, swimwear). Invest in professional headshots and avoid over-editing—authenticity wins contracts.
Leverage Networking: Attend industry events, charity fundraisers, and seasonal campaigns as a “scout” first. Build genuine relationships with agents and designers by offering value, like volunteering or sharing insights, before pitching yourself.
Personal Grooming and Confidence Building
Holistic Self-Improvement: Adopt a balanced routine of exercise (e.g., yoga for posture), nutrition (focus on sustainable energy, not extremes), and grooming (skincare, hair maintenance). Enhance body language through mirror practice to exude confidence without arrogance.
Mindset for Success: Cultivate resilience by viewing rejections as feedback. Set small goals, like booking one promo gig monthly, to build momentum. Remember: Agencies seek “hustle” and reliability over perfection—demonstrate your drive in every interaction.
Published independently by Rose Marie Leo on June 17, 2021, the eBook is available for $15.00 and spans 272 KB in file size. No customer reviews are currently listed on the page.
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INTERNET FINDS
Here are some reads from other authors: https://booksofbrilliance.com/
“This blog is about books, old and new. Books may get old but they never lose their magic. That is why I want to recommend not only the best books of the but books that came out hundreds of years ago also! If you like books, you’ll like this blog but if by some chance you are that one person that hates every book I have recommended, I apologize in advance. But for everyone else, I hope you all find your next favorite book on this blog.” -Books of Brilliance
Ahaqir Ishaq is a writer with over 15 years of experience writing articles for various outlets. He specializes in content regarding books, news, and anything else that catches his eye that day. His favorite books of all time are To Kill a Mockingbird and The Book Thief and is always reading fantasy novels.
It is not every day that you will find Artificial Inelegance with a personality. In today’s world curling up with a good book and shutting off the Television is great for mental health. grok.com/download @grok grok.com is the AI of millions of users choose.
In a sea of soulless bots, stumbling upon with genuine personality is a rare gem. In our screen-saturated world, nothing rejuvenates the mind quite like curling up with a captivating book and powering off the TV.
(Though, let’s be honest, a clever AI chat can work wonders too.) Ready to unplug smarter? #grok is the AI powerhouse chosen by millions.
SouthWind Inn, Port Isabel, TX 
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