What I'm Reading This Spring...And You Should Too!

"If there's a book that you want to read, but it hasn't been written yet, then you must write it." 

Toni Morrison 

In these challenging and uncertain times, many of us struggle with ways we can make a positive difference with our talents and resources. With how to leave a legacy that matters; particularly writers. It's how we're wired.

Though social media activities and popular podcasts can certainly spark stimulating conversation, entertain and educate on some levels, these mediums typically don't possess the "band-width" to move people to action; to provide solid solutions; to engage and empower with authority.

Well-written books can. Enter: "Change the World One Book at a Time."  Between the pages, (approx. 238) author and inspiration-to-creation coach, Nina Amir provides a roadmap to help writers successfully publish meaningful books that matter. Based upon their strengths, their vision, their voice.    

The book is divided into three sections:

PART 1* HOW TO EMBODY CHANGE

PART 2 * HOW TO INSPIRE CHANGE

PART 3 * HOW TO AUTHOR CHANGE 

It's an easy read with solid, timely advice that won't rust, fade, or become irrelevant.

Nina has been in the publishing game for decades. And it shows.

What I also enjoyed about this guide, were the useful tips and strategies on mind mapping techniques, developing chapter outlines, and research tips.

Be advised. You'll definitely want to read it with a pen and paper to capture and catalog all the information you'll garner.

IN CONCLUSION...

 "Change the World One Book at a Time" should be included in every serious writer's library. I'm glad it's a permanent part of mine.

To learn more, visit Nina's site here.

Readers...What's on your reading list this spring? Do tell!

Spring Cleaning For Writers* 5 Tips to Optimal Success!

 

Spring has sprung. And with it comes two dreaded tasks we often love to hate: taxes and spring cleaning. Still, these common undertakings untackled can carry long-term penalties. Be forewarned. 

But, here's the good news.

In today's post, I've got you covered.  We'll examine some clever strategies to help you "work smarter, not harder."  Additionally, we'll explore how spring cleaning can improve your quality of life and mental health.

So, if you're on board let's get busy!

FIRST, SOME BACKSTORY...

For the record here, I've always been a bit of a neat freak. I'm a firm believer that "there's a place for everything and everything should be in its place." But, it wasn't until somewhat recently that I discovered that studies back up my way of thinking. That there's a method to my madness. Here's the proof in the pudding.

My research in preparing this piece, revealed at theahch.org website, that according to an article written by Ralph Ryback M.D., a study led by Associate Professor NiCole R. Keith, Ph.D., research scientist and professor at Indiana University, found that "People with clean houses are healthier than people with messy houses. 

Keith and her colleagues tracked the physical health of 998 African Americans between the ages of 49 and 65, a demographic known to be at an increased risk for heart disease. Participants who kept their homes clean were healthier and more active than those who didn’t. In fact, house cleanliness was even more of a predictor for physical health than neighborhood walkability."

And there's more. The Cleaninginstitute.org shares, "Nearly 9 in 10 Americans (87%) feel their best, both mentally and physically, when they have a clean home" based on survey data released by the American Cleaning Institute (ACI).

Armed with this information on spring cleaning benefits, below are some tips to incorporate to help you reap meaningful results.

1. TAKE INVENTORY

An easy way to make a dent in this project is to take an initial review of what is taking up space in your place. Simply ask. What's in excess? What's in duplicate?  Toss or donate duplicate items, stuff that's in disrepair, or things that are outdated. You'll thank me later. :-)

For example, I have waaaay too many books. When I take a gander at my stacks of books in my home office library, I've noticed (much to my surprise) that I still have textbooks from my college days. Though I graduated many years ago. To make things worse, much of the info contained in those books is either outdated or irrelevant. 

And when going through my closet? Well... my closet reveals that I am holding on to wardrobe items that are currently too small, as an incentive to lose a few pounds. In reality? Delusional thinking.

Consider too, What sentimental attachments do you need to break up with this year?

2. HAVE A SYSTEMATIC APPROACH

In the popular book, Marie Kondo's Kurashi at Home, the author/organizing guru suggests that organizing and cleaning should be done in specific categories. 

They are as follows:

• Clothes
• Books
• Papers
• Komono (miscellaneous items)
• Sentimental items 

She also recommends that we retain things that give us pure joy. I couldn't agree more.

3. START SMALL AND BUILD MOMENTUM

Take it from me. It's much better to start with purging your junk drawer than cleaning out the garage. The reason? If you take on too much too soon, you'll likely feel overwhelmed and get discouraged. This would be counter-productive.

4. CONSIDER THE R.O.I.

Everytime I engage in spring cleaning, I am rewarded beyond having a cleaner environment. Perhaps some of you can relate.

Sometimes I've found money in unexpected places; or I discovered an article in progress that I was able to finally finish and get paid for; or I lucked up on some treasured photographs that rekindled fond memories. Think of it as a treasure hunt.

5. FOR WRITERS, ORGANIZING OFTEN LEADS TO GREATER EFFICIENCY

Beyond typical, tangible household items, writers would do well to look at and eliminate the following:

• Online subscriptions to newsletters and blogs that we no longer read or follow (please don't let it be mine!)
• Clients' files that we no longer are in contact with or serve
• Multiple drafts of finished works
• Links on your website or blog that may be changed or relocated @ other sites
• Pens that no longer write

Get my drift here? Doing so saves time, relieves stress, and helps to meet  important deadlines.

IN CONCLUSION...

For more information on cleaning hacks and better mental health, visit Very Well Mind:

https://www.verywellmind.com/how-mental-health-and-cleaning-are-connected-5097496

I hope that you found today's tips @ Pen & Prosper useful. If so, let me know in the comments.

Or please feel free to add a helpful tip of your own.

As always, thanks for reading!

Art Gallery Reflections* Poetry Month Tribute Part 2...

After posting some of the images from my night on the town @ Guichard Gallery, in my last update at Pen & Prosper, I found a few additional creative pieces that were overlooked. The photos are included here.

As an outcome, I became inspired to challenge myself to try my hand at writing an Ekphrastic Poem. I've actually written hundreds of poems in different styles and structures, over the years. But, never this kind.  

What is an Ekphrastic poem? You might ask.

According to Oregon State University College of Liberal Arts: "Ekphrasis is a literary description of art. Like other kinds of imagery, ekphrasis paints a picture with words. What makes it different from something like pictorialism is that the picture it paints is itself a picture: ekphrasis stages an encounter between representations in two mediums, one visual and one verbal.

One of the oldest examples is Homer’s long description of Achilles’ shield in the epic The Iliad."

In simpler terms, it's a poem written as a response to a work of art. It typically focuses on things like color, texture, composition. 

If you would like to compose your own Ekphrastic poem, here are some tips to optimize your efforts:

https://martyncrucefix.com/2017/02/03/14-ways-to-write-an-ekphrastic-poem/

 Wish me luck! Happy National Poetry Month.

Poetry on a Palette, Anyone? Art Show Reflections...

"A thing of beauty is a joy forever."--John Keats

As many of you are aware, April is National Poetry Month.  Poetry is an artistic expression that extends way beyond words affixed on paper. As a professional poet, I can attest that poetry can be found in the beauty of nature, in words sung in a rap song, and even the palette of an artist.

With this in mind, I hope to expand your horizons and your poetic lens with an updated post here, that captures what I like to consider “poetry without words.”

First, here’s the back story to today’s story.

Recently, I was invited to attend a gala at an art gallery marketed as, "Artini @ Gallery Guichard." It was my first time there, but I definitely don't intend for it to be my last! From the moment my fella' and I entered the door, we were impressed with the ambiance, the decor, the sounds and the vast collection of beautiful paintings and other artistic pieces curated by artists of color. Many of which I'd never even heard of.  

One thing I definitely love about Chicago, is the vibrant art culture. You could literally find something new to explore every week and never get bored. But, I digress a little here...

This gathering, located in Bronzeville, was surprisingly well attended, with folks from all races, places and socio-economic backgrounds. Let me tell you! What a night on the town.

The night was elevated by musicians, poets and a dynamic D.J.! And since a picture is said to "speak a thousand words," I trust you'll be abundantly "enriched' by these lovely photos I took and am including here.

Feel free to leave a comment. As always, thanks for reading! Keep the arts in your heart!

Pen & Prosper Announcements & Updates* March 2026

 

Greetings, Readers!

It's hard to even fathom that spring is right around the corner. Can you believe that this year has gone by so quickly? Well, as usual, I'm trying to get a jump on things where I can. These days, I'm immersed in several spring cleaning and decorating efforts, yard maintenance projects, and working on a few writing concepts. How about you?

With this being the case, today's post will be brief, but I think you'll find it interesting. Would love to get your comments below, if time permits. 

HERE'S WHAT'S HAPPENING IN MARCH... 

MARCH IS DESIGNATED WOMEN'S HISTORY MONTH 

A time to celebrate, recognize, and honor the collective contributions and achievements of women everywhere. Women's History Month started out as Women's History Week, back in 1978.

According to Womenshistory.org, in February, 1980, President Jimmy Carter issued the first Presidential Proclamation declaring the week of March 8th 1980 as National Women's History Week.

You can learn more about it here: https://www.womenshistory.org/womens-history/womens-history-month

ON A RELATED NOTE HERE...

A great way to embrace, empower, and amplify the voices of women (if you're a blogger) is to interview one of your favorite female authors or fellow bloggers. Or perhaps to post a review on your favorite female-written book. I have done this in past years with my "ROAR SERIES". Here's an example below.  

https://penandprosper.blogspot.com/2014/03/q-with-author-wendy-burt-thomas.html

FEEDSPOT.ORG JUST RELEASED THEIR TOP 100 BLOGS FOR 2026

Much to my delight and surprise, Pen & Prosper made the cut once again. Thank you readers! I appreciate your time, engagement, and support.

Here's the listing at Feedspot. Congratulations to all who made the list! And a special thanks to the fine folks at Feedspot for the recognition.

WALLETHUB.COM PUBLISHES THE HAPPIEST CITIES IN 2026!

Did you know that your income level could influence your degree of happiness? Wallethub.com shares that "studies show that earning more than 75,000 a year does not lead to greater happiness." It further states that "research shows that having more money only increases your happiness until you're making at least $75,000 per year-- anything more you earn likely won't have an impact." Imagine that! 

As such, they contend that when choosing where to reside to maximize your happiness, you'll do well to select a city that offers more than just an adequate income. Things like good weather and caring neighbors, for instance.

It further identifies several criteria for optimal living conditions and ranks more than 180 cities accordingly. Chicago made the list; with its ranking of number 83. A welcome change from all the negative media it typically receives and the misperception by many that Chicago is just a city of violence and crooked politicians. Don't believe the hype!

Where does your city rank? 

Check out the list and let me know if you would agree or disagree. Or any surprising inclusions or conclusions you find. Deal?

Here's that listing:

https://wallethub.com/edu/happiest-places-to-live/32619

 

Thanks for reading, folks!

Black History Month Reflections & Lessons 2026

 

Happy belated 2026, readers! 

Thank you for returning for a new season of Pen & Prosper. I'm glad to have you here, not just for 2026, but also for Black History Month. There's no doubt about it, every February affords us an opportunity to recognize the collective contributions of people of color; to expand our horizons; to know more and grow more; to celebrate. 

And I'm proud and honored to use my growing platform to play even a small role in raising the visibility of Blacks, while raising the consciousness level of others. So, here we are for some fun facts and interesting info.

You ready?

Before I unpack a few reflections, lessons, and recent blessings, let's explore some relevant details about Black History Month. Shall we?

BLACK HISTORY MONTH BACKGROUND... 

• BHM evolved from “Negro History Week,” initiated by noted historian Carter G. Woodson and other prominent African Americans. 
• Every U.S. president, (since 1976) has officially designated the month of February as Black History Month.
• Being Black is not a pre-requisite for celebrating Black History.

There are many ways to honor, support, participate in B.H.M. Things that don't require a lot of money, or public protest, or anything radical, in fact.

 Here are a few ways that I have done my part over the last few weeks. And if you feel so inclined, you can too. :-) 

I SUPPORTED BLACK BUSINESSES

Recently, I visited a local upscale Black-owned bookstore in my area, "Honey & Hue". They hosted a Valentine's Day open-mic event for the 21 and over crowd that was worth the price of admission! 

Upon arrival, I was immediately impressed with the lovely decor and the broad, interesting titles from an array of Black authors. From celebrities like Michelle Obama, Cynthia Erivo, and Ketanji Brown Jackson, to up and coming novelists I'd never heard of.

To top it off, the bookstore staff was very helpful and inviting.

We had a full house, even on a cold winter's day. The event garnered attendees of different ages, interests, and socio-economic backgrounds. They were friendly, smart, talented, and very creative. Let me tell you! 

Several poets read their works; there were discussions on timely issues; and folks even shared marital and relationship advice.

The food was fab!

They served pinwheel sandwiches, assorted cupcakes, fruit, flavored juices, and various wines.

The downsides?

I met so many lovely people, whom I wanted to keep in contact with for the future, for networking purposes. Guess what?

Very few had business cards; though many were authors, successful professionals, and even entrepreneurs. Word to the wise: Not everyone is active on social media, folks. Not everyone wants to "look you up on Facebook."

No judgment here, but please consider investing a few bucks on some quality calling cards to expand your social circle this year and potentially your client roster. Vistaprint offers some great designs for reasonable prices.

The other small "snag" that evening, was that I'm not sure that the store had adequate preparation for the busyness of the event. I wanted to (and subsequently did) purchase merchandise from the store. The books and sundry items I liked, were not labeled with any prices. So, I found myself constantly trying to "flag down" staff to answer questions. The cash register didn't work, so unfortunately, they couldn't print my receipt. I had to remind them a few times that I didn't get one. Later that evening, they sent me a text with purchase confirmation. Which was cool; but I prefer printed receipts for recordkeeping purposes.

ALSO ON THE MENU...

The same day, my guy and I also checked out a new bbq restaurant (Sanders BBQ) that was ranked one of the top 50 eateries in the country. The dishes were to die for!

i had BBQ ribs, mac & cheese, and cornbread like I'd never had before.

I would rank the experience 4 out of 5 **** stars.

Lastly,

I VISITED AND READ SOME BLOGS BY BLACK BLOGGERS

It's a small task with the potential to have great impact for you (the reader) and the host. Trust me, I know. Diverse viewing can broaden your writer's voice, teach you about different cultures, and expand your horizons.

With this being the case, thank you for visiting today and spending your time at Pen & Prosper.

I hope that something you read inspired, informed or entertained you.

Until next time...

Wishing You a Merry Christmas & Happy New Year!

 

As we close out the end of the year, just wanted to convey my thanks for your readership, comments, and support.

Wishing you and yours a very blessed, abundant, beautiful, safe holiday season.

I hope to join you in February, 2026 with more informative and interesting content to help you "know more, grow more."

Until then...

Warm Wishes,

JEN

Image credit: Jen