Author Archives: Trixie Raboy

Author Success - In the media, awards, reviews

Celebrating Our Authors and Books This August

Aug 25,2025 / By / No Comment

August was filled with exciting moments for our authors! From positive book reviews to award recognitions, this month highlighted the dedication and creativity behind their work. It’s always inspiring to see stories reach new readers, gain appreciation, and earn acknowledgment for the impact they create. As we close out the month, we’re taking a moment to look back and celebrate the authors and books that made August stand out.

Awards

Tellwell author Prescilla Goraya has been recognized with an Honorable Mention at the 2025 Purple Dragonfly Book Awards for her debut picture book, Liz, in the New Author: Fiction Category.

In Liz, the story is told through the eyes of Queen Elizabeth II’s beloved dogs, gently exploring themes of grief, healing, and cherished memories while honoring Her Late Majesty’s legacy. An Australian-born author, teacher, and mother of two, Prescilla draws on her own experiences of loss and resilience to create stories that inspire compassion and hope.

Stash! Little Horse, Big City received an Honorable Mention in the 2025 Purple Dragonfly Book Awards in the Charity and Making a Difference category.

This heartwarming story follows Stash, a miniature therapy horse who brings comfort and joy to hospitals, nursing homes, schools, and more. With his gentle nature, Stash shows the power of kindness, compassion, and the big difference one small horse can make.

Written by sisters Rhiya and Aarya, passionate equestrians and community advocates, the book is inspired by the real Stash—the only certified therapy mini equine in Toronto. Along with illustrator Roksolana, they’ve created a touching reminder that sometimes the smallest among us carry the biggest hearts.

Zlata Pryudyus has been recognized on the 2025 American Book Honor Awardee list by Writers Global.

Her book, Amy and the Magic Forest, follows Amy, a young girl who stumbles into a magical realm after a fight with her best friend. Guided by Freya the fairy, she faces challenges, learns the value of teamwork, and discovers the true meaning of friendship.

Zlata, a sixth grader from Vancouver, first wrote the story as a school assignment at HongDe Elementary. With encouragement from her teachers and her mom, Roxi, she turned it into a published book. Passionate about storytelling, she hopes to inspire other children to embrace creativity and imagination.

Publicity

Local author Joe Lyons-Rising has released a heartfelt self-help book on coping with grief and loss, drawing from his own experiences to guide others through healing.

The book was recently featured in BarrieToday, where Lyons-Rising shared his hope of inspiring readers to face their struggles and find peace.

With honesty and compassion, his work stands as both a personal story and an encouraging resource for anyone navigating life after loss.

Dr. Mark Tyndall is taking a stand for tobacco harm reduction, sharing his insights in his new book Vaping: Behind the Smoke and Fear. With decades of experience in HIV care and harm reduction, he frames safer nicotine products as a “safe supply” for people who smoke.

In a feature by FilterMag, Tyndall reflects on how strict smoking bans often force patients into unsafe situations, showing the need for compassion and practical solutions instead of prohibition.

Reviews

Author Mala Khiroya received a glowing 5-star review from Reader Views for her book Pundalik & Lord Vitthala: The Man Whom God Visited Because He Served His Parents Selflessly with Love. This beautifully crafted children’s story shares the tale of Pundalik and Lord Vitthala, teaching young readers about love, kindness, and selfless devotion.

Pundalik & Lord Vitthala: The Man Whom God Visited Because He Served His Parents Selflessly with Love,” by Mala Khiroya, is more than an inspiring children’s book on the subject of respecting parents. It’s also a guide and fun workbook for children to explore, write in, and engage with to find deeper meaning in service to parents.

-Reader Views Book Review

Author Philippe Le Blanc received a glowing 5-star review from Reader Views for his book Advantage Equities: Invest Between the Lines and Win. Blending lessons from the tennis court with the world of stock market investing, Le Blanc offers readers a fresh and practical approach to building financial success.

Advantage Equities: Invest Between the Lines and Win, by Philippe Le Blanc, teaches you the ins and outs of investing and the stock market by merging two things: tennis and the stock market. This is a fascinating look at the stock market through the lens of tennis, and the world of tennis through the lens of investing. They have more to do with each other than you might think, and this big, bold book shows you how and why.

-Reader Views Book Review
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Book Giveaways

Your August Reading Starts Here!

Aug 25,2025 / By / No Comment

Get ready to explore some great reads this August. From engaging read to thought-provoking tales, there’s something here for every kind of reader to enjoy.

A read that sparks thought and reflection.

A powerful, real-life journey of overcoming challenges. Honest, moving, and impossible to forget, this is a story that lingers long after the last page.

Abandoned by his mother when only weeks old, his father left him in the care of a cruel, alcoholic stepmother while he himself was in jail. Unbelievably, the child they dubbed the “Pyjama Boy” fought his way through life to achieve his ultimate goal. His story is a poignant and haunting one that captivates its reader from the very beginning and remains long after the book has been closed. 

Click Here To Get Your FREE Copy

A Thoughtful Approach to Every Detail

This book has everything you need to know to plan your perfect unique wedding.
This is not your typical wedding planning book. Chapter titles alone will tell you what needs to be done, and the subtitles break it down further. The book includes tips, advice, stories, templates, and notebook to keep track of everything.

All the other books, magazine articles, Instagram and Pinterest timeline posts state on the “day of” to have a good breakfast. They don’t mention the people that take care of all the duties and tasks throughout the day so you can be VIP guests at your own wedding.

The five easy steps and how they relate to each other is the foundation of this book, which will make sure you have an educational, memorable, stressless, wonderful experience throughout the whole process:

1) Timeline
2) Budget
3) “Day of” schedule
4) Duties and tasks
5) Lists and assignments


The secret is having a planned schedule that catches everything, and a specific person in charge on the “day of” that pulls it off while you enjoy with the guests. Let me show you how to perfect your wedding planning experience.
Waiting to your wedding day is just too late to realize the importance of this thought process and having a specific/special go-to-person working the “day of” on your behalf.
You will enjoy the days up to the wedding as much as the day itself, as this book helps make it all come true.

Click Here To Get Your FREE Copy

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Author Success - In the media, awards, reviews

July’s Stories, July’s Storytellers

Jul 23,2025 / By / No Comment

This July, we’re happy to celebrate some wonderful moments from our authors. From being featured in the news to receiving kind words in book reviews, book awards, and joining book events, it’s been a month full of meaningful highlights.

We love seeing their stories reach more people and their hard work recognized in new ways. These moments—big or small—deserve to be shared and celebrated.

Take a look at a few of the special shoutouts and public milestones that made this month one to remember.

Awards

Jeremy Durgana’s inspiring memoir, Mighty Joe Mui, has earned two awards at the International Impact Book Awards: Autobiography: Overcoming Adversity, and Memoir: Inspirational Memoirs.

The book follows the remarkable journey of Joe Mui from a difficult childhood in rural China to playing NCAA Division I soccer and earning a place at Cornell University. It’s a powerful story of resilience, determination, and hope.

As a teacher, actor, and musician, Durgana brings depth and heart to Joe’s story, turning real-life challenges into a moving and unforgettable read.

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Book Giveaways

Summer Pages, July Picks!

Jul 23,2025 / By / No Comment

Summer’s in full swing, and it’s the perfect time to slow down and enjoy a good story. Whether you’re soaking up the sun or staying cool indoors, a great book can make all the difference.

This month, we’re shining a light on a couple of standout reads that offer just the right mix of heart, curiosity, and imagination. Simple, meaningful, and perfect for your July reading list, these picks are worth flipping through.

A playful and heartwarming story for young readers to enjoy

Get ready for a feel-good story that celebrates imagination, joy, and the idea that age is just a number. A fun and thoughtful read for kids, and kids at heart.

J.C. Walker’s new way of celebrating your birthday will have 
children using their imaginations and parents remembering their happiest memories.
Find out how the Nuwayble family celebrates their birthdays a little differently.
What age would you pick?

A reminder to us all: no matter how young or old, age is but a number. How you feel is all that matters.

Click here to get your FREE copy

A thought-provoking read that rewards reflection

A gripping true-to-life story about rising above the odds. Raw, honest, and unforgettable, this is a read that stays with you.

Abandoned by his mother when only weeks old, his father left him in the care of a cruel, alcoholic stepmother while he himself was in jail. Unbelievably, the child they dubbed the “Pyjama Boy” fought his way through life to achieve his ultimate goal. His story is a poignant and haunting one that captivates its reader from the very beginning and remains long after the book has been closed. 

Click here to get your FREE copy

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Tellwell Books

Shelf of Indigenous Stories

Jun 26,2025 / By / No Comment

As we mark Indigenous History Month, we take this time to honour the voices, traditions, and stories that have shaped generations.

At Tellwell, we are proud to work with authors whose words reflect the deep resilience, cultural strength, and identity of Indigenous communities. Their powerful stories not only preserve history, they spark dialogue, inspire learning, and remind us of the importance of listening and remembering.

Through storytelling, these authors share truths that need to be heard—truths that continue to guide us toward understanding, empathy, and reconciliation.

This month, and always, we invite you to explore these meaningful books and reflect on the stories that shape our shared history.

 The Lucky Ones: A Survivor’s Story by Jimi Delorme
This author is a residential school survivor who spent eleven years in two different schools in southern Saskatchewan. The first of these schools is the Marieval Indian Residential school, which is the sight of the 715 unmarked graves which have been recently brought to light in various news articles.

Judging by the comments posted all over social media, this discovery has caused a lot of division within the First Nations community. Seeing people argue over such a sensitive topic can bring back a lot of painful memories within individuals who are already fighting to survive in a very hostile and vulnerable lifestyle, people often living on the streets and battling substance abuse and homelessness.

Despite all of the negative news reports, this book is not meant to be just another bash-the-church-and-government type of project. This book focuses primarily on the often difficult healing journey which followed the school experience. It is meant to show other survivors that there is a way to heal and let go of their painful pasts.

This biography shows that by returning to our own cultural and spiritual teachings we can find the hope that we are all so desperately searching for in a world that can often seem both foreign and uncaring. I hope that I have not offended anyone by the words that I am sharing with the world. If I have offended you in some small way, I am sorry.

All my relations.
 My Family, My Relations, My Friends by Frederick John Turner
Fred was unaware of the poverty he was exposed to while he was growing up. As far as he was concerned, this was normal. His mom, Irene, a single mother, made certain that his two boys, Fred and his older brother Leonard, were well taken care of. After being a captive of a residential school, she came back home to Sturgeon Lake not knowing where she belonged, or where to turn.

Fred holds an Interdisciplinary Studies Diploma from the University of Regina. He was the music director for the Onion Lake Log Church, where Martin Naistus is Pastor, until he was sidelined by kidney complications in August of 2020. Now he spends his time writing from his office at his home in Onion Lake. His life’s story, titled, “My Family, My Relations, My Friends,” will be his first book published. These days Fred spends most of his time tending to his grandchildren. He has accumulated much knowledge throughout his lifetime, and he is not shy about sharing his experience with his readers.

SOME OF THE STORIES YOU WILL READ IN THIS BOOK:
Hoss calls fire down from heaven in Pikangikum, Ontario.
The night Fred meets Jim Felix on an old country road.
The lessons learned from the old Blackfoot preacher, Hartwell North
Peigan. The day Kene Jackson from Sonrise Gospel Band comes for a visit.
The bionic preacher, Ross Maracle, invites us to Deseronto for the
R. W. Schambach campmeeting.
Getting blamed for a walkout at Faith Alive Bible College.
Courage and Complicity by Claudette Languedoc
In August 1947, Mary Brock boarded a train in Toronto. She was headed for the wilds of Northwestern Ontario and a teaching job at an Indian residential school. Her family was horrified. 
At the end of her first day of teaching, Mary was horrified too. This was not the exciting adventure she had imagined. But Mary wasn’t one to give up. Buoyed by her ideals and pragmatism, she kept showing up.

She lasted the academic year. When she boarded the train for home, she knew she had failed, in every way that mattered. The ideals she had come with had shattered on her classroom floor, and a big piece of her heart lay buried behind a small log cabin in the woods.


Sixty years later, two unexpected gifts forced her to take a second look back and a more hopeful look forward. Maybe her ideals weren’t so naïve after all.
I Remember: Memories from Lejac Residential School by Marian Lynn Duncan and Michelle Miller-Gauthier
I remember that fear kept boys and girls broken, with tangled spirits, silenced for years.

In 1965, at the tender age of four, Marian Duncan was taken to Lejac residential school. She arrived wearing the new blue dress and velvet shoes her grandmother had bought for her that very day. Within the first minutes of her arrival, the clothes were taken, her hair was cut short and her unforgettable, unforgivable experience of residential school life began. The next nine years of her life were to be filled with longing for her parents and grandparents, learning to endure endless harsh punishments, sneaking moments and hugs with older siblings, creating supportive friendships and an attempted escape.


Marian continues to heal and brings a forgiving, loving approach to life. She sends love and good wishes to all she encounters, despite the lasting impacts of her residential school experiences.

We hope readers of Marian’s story develop a deeper sense of empathy and respect for Indigenous people in this country. We hope they see strength in Marian and others in similar circumstances. We know readers will feel great sorrow for the children and families impacted by residential schools, and we hope they feel admiration for the way many are overcoming their past trauma and leading lives that are making a better future for the next generations.
The Name of my Blanket is Hlbin Hlox: The Killer Whale that Blocks Our the Moon by Matthew Harvey Moore
Caught in the middle of a storm, Wassen Xbi iltkw was screaming, “Don’t panic!” Wassen Xbiiltkw was near panic himself, but he figured they had enough trouble and didn’t need to add a fight with Killer Whales.
Tscwinúcw-k: The Stars of the Secwepemc by Stanley Daniels
Every night, Malakai’s Kye7e would tell him stories beneath the vast Secwepemc sky. She spoke of the stars, spirits of their ancestors who watch over them, guiding and protecting their people through the darkness. Their laughter filled the air, their love unspoken yet deeply understood.


But when Kye7e journeys to the spirit world, Malakai is left with an ache in his heart and questions that only the stars might answer. As he searches for comfort, his mother, Setse7, shares the wisdom passed down through generations: the stars are not just distant lights, they are their ancestors, always present, always guiding. Through stories of courage, of warriors like T’ult and of the Secwepemc people’s enduring words, Tscwinúcw-k (“We made it through the night”), Malakai discovers that Kye7e is never truly gone.


A powerful story of love, loss, and the strength of ancestral connection, Tscwinúcw-k: The Stars of the Secwepemc honours the wisdom of generations, the resilience of the Secwepemc Nation, and the sacred teachings that carry their people forward. More than a children’s book, this is a story for all who seek belonging, who look to the stars for guidance, and who find comfort in the knowledge that we are never alone.

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Book Giveaways

Your June Reads Are on Us!

Jun 25,2025 / By / No Comment

Looking for something new to read this June? We’re spotlighting a couple of standout titles that offer personal and thought-provoking stories.

Whether you’re in the mood for something reflective, emotional, or simply honest, these books might just be what you’re looking for.

Your June read is on us—take a look and see what speaks to you.

The Atrocities of Hope by Michael Olukayode

Nigeria faces a crisis that threatens its very survival. This book tackles the tough questions about how we got here and what’s next—it’s unfiltered and unapologetic. Be prepared to be challenged, and maybe even offended. But keep an open mind—you might just learn something important.

Nigeria is dealing with a level of disorderliness that is neither compatible
with functionality nor with long life. Our problems did not start
today; they have been with us for as long as we have existed as a
country. But just like a disorder left untreated, our problem has incapacitated
us, and the rate of deterioration is currently becoming alarming.
The long-term survival of our country is no longer as assured as it used to
be. We are on a slippery slope with nothing to hold on to.
This book attempts to answer the ‘what’, ‘why’, ‘who’, and ‘what is next’
of our problems. As is always the case when truths are discussed, be ready to
be offended.
But if you are open-minded enough to be offended and not switch off and
open-minded enough to be offended and keep reading – you might learn one
or two things at the end of this book,

Click here to get your FREE copy

Smoke & Mirrors by Joanie Olson

This deeply personal story explores the hidden impact of narcissistic abuse, complex PTSD, and spiritual awakening. From the highs of the Freedom Convoy to the heartbreak of a broken marriage, it’s a journey of uncovering truth, healing, and rediscovering the self behind the smoke and mirrors.

Searching for an answer to a question you haven’t asked yet? You are not alone. One small realization and a whole world unravels. 

Woven through these pages are a series of my most significant life events relating to narcissistic victim/survivor syndrome. Inside are keys unlocking mysteries of complex PTSD, compounded through various forms of abuse.  


A journey of highs, like the Freedom Convoy, and the lows of a failed longtime marriage. With spiritual forces at work behind the scenes, could a Christian home have so many secrets? The smoke will clear to reveal our true mirrored self.

Click here to get your FREE copy

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Author Success - In the media, awards, reviews

June Favourites and Features!

Jun 25,2025 / By / No Comment

As June wraps up, we’re taking a moment to highlight some of the standout moments that made this month exciting! From incredible book reviews to author features and little wins worth celebrating, it’s been a joy to see so many stories from our Tellwell authors shine.

Here’s a look at our authors’ journey this June!

Publicity

Photo credit Jack Boland/Toronto Sun

Canadian hockey icon and broadcaster Don Cherry was featured in the Toronto Sun recently, discussing daughter Cindy’s new book on his life and legacy, The Don Cherry Story by his daughter Cindy. Cindy recently passed away, and Don talks about how the book “helps keep Cindy alive for him.”

Published with Tellwell, Cindy’s book offers a heartfelt behind-the-scenes look at her father’s life—both in the spotlight and at home. It’s a powerful tribute that sheds new light on a Canadian legend and gives readers a personal glimpse into the man behind the headlines. We’re grateful to have been a part of telling this family’s remarkable story.

Teddy Morrison, author of The Adventures Of A Man With One Hand. (CTV/Ryan MacDonald)

In Cape Breton, Nova Scotia, Tellwell author Teddy Morrison is proving that determination knows no limits. Born without one hand, Teddy has lived a full and fearless life, now captured in his memoir, The Adventures of a Man With One Hand.

As featured on CTV News Atlantic, Teddy’s story is one of adaptability, humour, and strength. From daily tasks to life’s biggest adventures, he’s never let his physical difference define him.

This inspiring book is a reminder that resilience is not about what you’re missing—it’s about what you choose to make possible.

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Tellwell Books

Mother’s Day Tellwell Picks!

May 27,2025 / By / No Comment

There’s no single way to define a mother, but their impact is always unforgettable. 💐💖

As we celebrated Mother’s Day, we took a moment to honour the women who nurture, guide, and inspire us. Whether it was your own mom, a grandmother, or a mother figure in your life, this booklist serves as a heartfelt tribute to the many ways motherhood shows up in the world.

Check out these stories of strength, sacrifice, quiet love, and unwavering support, each one capturing the beauty and resilience of motherhood in all its forms.

Unstoppable Mamas by Sara Ballantyne
UNSTOPPABLE MAMAS is a story that highlights the unique attributes and passions of mothers. It encompasses a positive message while reminding readers that no two mothers are alike, and their differences must be celebrated. Unstoppable Mamas is a lovely rhyme that teaches children that no matter the differences between mothers, they share one commonality: their unconditional love for their children.
What Is Mommy Doing? by Stacia Scott
Stacia Scott is a wife to her high school sweet heart, Eric, and has three amazing little boys. Stacia is a Nurse Practitioner and owner of Postpartum Care USA, a virtual postpartum medical clinic. After struggling with severe postpartum symptoms with little to no support from providers, Stacia quickly realized the lack of true knowledge and expertise from general medical providers. She has taken the lead to change care for mothers throughout the United States and has developed a natural, holistic postpartum clinic dedicated to helping women defeat postpartum symptoms with her propriety M.O.M. Method.
Mommy Always Comes Back to You by Christine Yeung & Anna Liang
Through gentle rhymes, little ones are reminded that “Mommy always comes back to you”
Mama’s Mantras by Renata de Castro
Mama’s Mantras is about an inquisitive little girl who loves the world of yoga and Ayurveda and finds peace in these practices. Her mom, an Ayurvedic practitioner and yoga teacher, shares part of these ancient and holistic teachings with her daughter at bedtime every night, in order to help her daughter cultivate healthy practices to regulate her breath, nervous system and feel connected to her body and the world around her.
Me, Myself & Motherhood by Jessie Daypuck
“Me, Myself, & Motherhood” is a guided journal designed to empower Mothers to embrace self-love, gratitude, & explore personal strengths. This journal aims to release Mom guilt, promote self-forgiveness & encourage you to let go of negative thoughts. Create a renewed sense of purpose & fulfillment by bringing out the version of yourself you wish to be. This journal also incorporates empowering affirmations, inspiring prompts & most importantly, therapeutic tools to help you break free from self-doubt & step into your confidence. Writing presents an emotional connection to the words, which means journaling is most definitely a form of self-care. Jessie believes these tools should be accessible to all Mother’s beyond the confines of therapy. “Motherhood is challenging, it is essential we show ourselves as much compassion as possible.”
I Hate You Mom: A Story of Unconditional Love by Yumi Hopfner
It is my hope that this story inspires children, parents and families to appreciate those intense moments as great opportunities to learn about unconditional love.

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Book Giveaways

May Reads & Must-Haves

May 27,2025 / By / No Comment

We’ve lined up a new set of great titles for our May book giveaway! Whether you’re looking to add something new to your collection or discover a book you haven’t read yet, this list has something for every kind of reader.

Check out this month’s featured books from Tellwell authors!

Curse of Ashmedei by Michal Snaerravn

Dark forces gather as ancient powers collide. A lone fighter, hunted and desperate, must navigate deadly alliances and unforgiving enemies. Betrayal lurks at every turn—who can be trusted when survival is on the line?

The Black Star approaches, heralding the cataclysm of Hell’s Gate. The pawns on the chessboard have played the opening gambits as the Races vie for its power. Amnon, a young Demonblood consumed by revenge, finds himself drawn into a maelstrom of treacherous alliances and primeval magic. With a price on his head and outmanoeuvred by Druids and Trollbloods at every turn, he can’t survive alone. An ancient Lycan, who has lost his humanity, is the only one he can trust . . . I roared in anger. “Druid fool! It will take—” At that moment something struck me from behind. Cursed Hell Bear! I decided that I would kill him first if I survived. I turned to the cave’s exit and took a staggering step . . .

Click here to get your FREE copy

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Author Success - In the media, awards, reviews

May’s Author and Book Buzz!

May 27,2025 / By / No Comment

May brought plenty of moments worth celebrating in the world of books and authors. From public recognition to engaging events, it’s been a month of spotlighting the voices behind the stories. Whether through panels, signings, or special features, authors had the chance to connect with readers and share their journeys.

Here’s a look at some of the highlights and familiar faces from this month’s literary celebrations.

Events

The 2025 Los Angeles Times Festival of Books marked its 30th anniversary on April 26–27 at the USC campus, drawing over 150,000 attendees to celebrate storytelling, creativity, and community. As the largest literary event in the U.S., the festival featured author panels, book signings, exhibitor booths, and live performances—creating a space where readers and writers could connect.

The vibrant atmosphere also included storytelling for kids, food trucks, cooking demos, and live music. Among the many authors in attendance were a few familiar faces from Tellwell Publishing, including Richard Lowy and Peter Gribble, who were spotted engaging with readers and celebrating their literary journeys.

Maximiliano Moreno Sastre, author of Ain’t No Way This Is Real recently held his first-ever book signing at Indigo Langley. It was a meaningful experience for him, especially as it took place at one of his favorite bookstores.

Grateful for the opportunity, Maximiliano shared how special it felt to talk about his story and meet readers in person. Signing copies of his debut book, he marked an exciting moment in his publishing journey—one that he won’t soon forget.

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