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Tellwell News

Tellwell 2025 Highlights

2025 was a milestone year for Tellwell! ✨ We celebrated our 10th anniversary, earned the BBB Torch Award for Ethics for the second year in a row, and launched our podcast, Demystifying Self-Publishing. Our first Empowered Author Summit brought together hundreds of writers and experts, while our authors’ books reached over 100,000 readers at Word on the Street Toronto. From awards to events, podcasts, and national showcases, 2025 was all about celebrating our community, empowering authors, and sharing the power of storytelling. Here’s to an even bigger 2026! 💙

Podcast Launch

Tellwell has launched a brand-new podcast, Demystifying Self-Publishing, designed to guide authors through every step of the self-publishing journey. Each episode features interviews with industry experts and successful self-published authors, offering practical advice, insider tips, and real stories to help aspiring and experienced authors navigate formatting, marketing, distribution, and more.

Word on the Street Toronto 2025!

Word on the Street Toronto was a standout highlight of last year, placing Tellwell authors in the heart of Canada’s largest celebration of books and storytelling. With over 100,000 readers gathering downtown, our Tellwell booth showcased a diverse lineup of author titles, giving books prime visibility, hands-on promotion, and direct exposure to an engaged literary audience, all without authors needing to be onsite. It was an incredible opportunity to connect stories with readers and celebrate the power of publishing on a national stage.

Tellwell CEO Tim Lindsay Releases The Call To Authorship

Tim Lindsay, founder and CEO of Tellwell Publishing, released his new book, The Call to Authorship, on November 5, 2025, at the Empowered Author Summit. The book guides nonfiction writers through a 10-step process through planning, writing, publishing, and promoting, drawing on Lindsay’s experience helping thousands of authors write with purpose and impact.

The Empowered Author Summit

The first annual Empowered Author Summit was a free, three-day virtual event held November 5–7, 2025, bringing together 864 attendees and 24 expert speakers from around the world. Designed to educate, empower, and elevate writers at every stage, the summit covered planning, publishing, and promoting, leaving attendees with clarity, confidence, practical tools, and renewed motivation.

Back-to-Back BBB Torch Award Win For Tellwell

Tellwell was honoured to receive the BBB Torch Award for Ethics in the Professional Services category for the second year in a row. This marked our fourth consecutive nomination and second win, recognizing our commitment to integrity, transparency, and author-first publishing. The award was celebrated by members of our team at the BBB gala in Victoria, BC, and reflects the trust of our author community and the dedication of our talented publishing professionals.

Tellwell Celebrates 10 Years

This year, Tellwell proudly marked its 10th anniversary, a milestone reflecting a decade of dedication to authors. What began as a simple idea of supporting writers with transparency, guidance, and 100% royalties has grown into a global publishing company serving authors around the world. From our first office in Victoria to a fully remote team and a network of more than 50 publishing professionals in 2025, our journey has been defined by growth, resilience, and an ever-expanding author community. Above all, this anniversary celebrates the thousands of authors who have trusted Tellwell with their stories and helped shape a decade of success.

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Author Success - In the media, awards, reviews

Inspiring Stories to Start the Year!

January is a great time to highlight our Tellwell authors and their work. This month, we’re sharing a collection of author spotlights and book reviews, celebrating the creativity and dedication that goes into each story.

Through these features, readers can discover engaging new books while learning more about the people behind them. It’s a way to celebrate the talent and passion that bring stories to life.

Author Spotlight

Lucas wants a tarantula—not a toy, not a picture, but a real eight-legged friend! The only problem? Mom is terrified of spiders.

In this sweet and funny story, Lucas uses patience, courage, and plenty of fun facts to win her over. Now featured in KidlioMag, K.M.’s book,  Lucas Gets a Tarantula is capturing young readers’ hearts and sparking brave conversations at home. Perfect for kids, parents, and anyone learning that courage sometimes comes with eight legs. 💛

The Adventures of Gregg the Fainting Goat by Steve Mo is also featured in KidlioMag! 🐐

Gregg isn’t your ordinary farm goat—he faints whenever he gets too excited or scared. When he dreams of joining the rodeo, his kindhearted friend Sharon helps him take on the goat-tying event. Full of humor, heart, and farmyard fun, this story shows that what makes you different can also be your greatest strength. Perfect for ages 3 to 7, it’s a tale that will leave kids laughing, cheering, and celebrating themselves.

Discover the magic of The Lonely Dragon: The Adventures of Astrid the Viking by Ruth Tobiassen, now featured in KidlioMag! 🐉

When a lonely dragon meets a brave Viking girl, a story of friendship, courage, and kindness unfolds. This beautifully rhyming tale shows that true friendship begins with understanding and heart. Perfect for bedtime or quiet reading, it blends gentle rhythms, memorable characters, and a message young readers will cherish.

Review

Wendy Maclean’s Santa Also Forgets has earned a five-star review from Reader’s Favorite! Based on true events and inspired by Wendy’s family trips to Santa’s village, this heartwarming story captures the magic of the season and the joy of kindness.

Santa Also Forgets by Wendy Maclean is built around humor, warmth, and relatable holiday moments. The writing is gentle, making it easy for young readers to read, while Amelina Jones’s illustrations bring all the pages to life. 

-Readers’ Favorite Book Review

Cody Cole’s Auke-wingeke-tawso, or, ‘Defender of His Country’ has received a five-star review from Reader Views! This detailed account of Charles de Langlade’s life highlights the bravery and endurance of the Green Bay forest settler, whose actions in the French & Indian War earned him lasting respect. Rich in historical detail, the book brings to life a fascinating figure often overlooked in history. Cody Cole, a history enthusiast from Kawartha Lakes, Ontario, combines meticulous research with a passion for storytelling to make this remarkable tale accessible to readers today.

Overall, Auke-wingeke-tawso is a solid work of historical scholarship that successfully conveys the history and influence of one of the most important Métis war captains, traders, and diplomats of the colonial era. 

-Reader Views Book Review

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Author Success - In the media, awards, reviews

A Look at November’s Author Wins!

November brought a fresh wave of milestones for our authors, and we’re excited to shine a light on a few of the standouts. From a well-deserved book award to an inspiring author spotlight and a glowing new review, this month was full of moments worth celebrating.

Award

Photo by International Impact Book Awards on Facebook

Tellwell author Maurice Jones is a 2025 finalist for Author of the Year at the International Impact Book Awards!

His inspiring children’s book encourages young readers to believe in themselves and reach for their dreams, emphasizing the importance of love, guidance, and the role of teachers in every child’s growth.

Maurice E. Jones, a certified chef, poet, and writer from Detroit, brings his life experiences and passion for giving back into his work. From his early poetry publications to supporting causes like Children’s Hospital of Michigan and St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital, Maurice continues to uplift his community while sharing stories that inspire.

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Author of the Month

Tellwell Author of the Month: Crystal Beach

From pumpkin patches to polar bears, Crystal Beach shares how her books help children learn, imagine, and belong.

Author and illustrator Crystal Beach has built a body of work that celebrates curiosity, inclusion, and early learning. Her newest book, One Little Witch, moves from the Arctic setting of her earlier titles into a magical pumpkin patch inspired by her own backyard. In this interview, Crystal talks about what drives her storytelling, how her background shapes her creative process, and what she’s learned along the way.

“My passion for early learning comes from wanting to make stories that are both fun and meaningful for young readers.”

Crystal Beach Author/Illustrator
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Author Success - In the media, awards, reviews

In the Spotlight This October!

This October, we’re celebrating the many wins that remind us why we love what we do. From positive feedback and meaningful recognition to milestones big and small, our authors continue to reach new readers and share stories that leave a lasting impact.

Each achievement is a reflection of their creativity, dedication, and the heart they pour into every page. It’s inspiring to see their work connect with audiences and receive the appreciation it deserves.

Here’s to our authors whose passion keeps stories alive, this month and always.

Awards

On a Scale of 1 to 10 by Yves Campion has received the 2025 Global Awards Bronze Medal in the Business Management category!

This award-winning book offers an insightful and accessible approach to marketing research, perfect for small business owners, entrepreneurs, and professionals looking to make smarter, data driven decisions. With over three decades of experience in global marketing and consulting, Yves Campion simplifies complex concepts into clear, actionable strategies that anyone can apply.

Tellwell author Cody Cole, whose historical title Auke-wingeke-tawso, or, Defender of His Country won Bronze in the Nonfiction: History category at The Book Fest L.A!

Cody’s book was also entered into three distinguished literary contests, earning recognition for its compelling portrayal of Charles Michel de Langlade (1729–1800)—a courageous yet often overlooked figure in North American history.

Based in Ontario’s Kawartha Lakes region, Cody brings his passion for history to life with every page, reviving the story of a true defender of his country.

Matt Mallinson’s won Silver in the Artistic & Technical Audio Book Voice Over category at The BookFest L.A.

Matt is the author of The Writer Upstairs, a thought-provoking story that blends history, science, and mystery as two unlikely characters cross paths in the mountains. Based in the U.S. and active in historical preservation, Matt brings depth and authenticity to his storytelling.

This Silver win celebrates not just the book’s writing, but also its captivating narration and production.

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Author Success - In the media, awards, reviews

Celebrating Our Authors and Books This August

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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Author Success - In the media, awards, reviews

July’s Stories, July’s Storytellers

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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Author Success - In the media, awards, reviews

June Favourites and Features!

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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Author Success - In the media, awards, reviews

May’s Author and Book Buzz!

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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Author Success - In the media, awards, reviews

Celebrating Authors and Their Stories This February

Authors shape the world with their stories, offering new perspectives, sparking conversations, and leaving a lasting impact on readers. Their journeys are filled with dedication, creativity, and the courage to share their voices.

This month we’re taking a moment to highlight their work, celebrate their achievements, and recognize the power of storytelling in all its forms.

Publicity

Tellwell author Richard K. Lowy’s book launch was recently featured on Vancouver CityNews, highlighting the powerful story behind Kalman & Leopold: Surviving Mengele’s Auschwitz. Hundreds gathered at Congregation Schara Tzedeck Synagogue in Vancouver to hear Lowy discuss the true story of two boys who survived Auschwitz—a testament to resilience, survival, and the importance of remembering history. The event brought together readers, historians, and community members, all moved by the book’s message and its impact.

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