Author Signing Event at Half Price Books in Mesa, AZ
Hello everyone and welcome to 2024!
I would like to invite you to a book signing event on Saturday, February 3, 2024, from 11:00 to 3:00 pm, at Half Price Books in Mesa, Arizona. Here is the address:
Superstition Springs Center
6339 East Southern Avenue
Mesa, Arizona 85206
I would love to meet you and introduce you to my Science Fiction/Fantasy books – The Dragomeir Series (for those who love adventure and dragons), Tinker Smith and the Conspiracy of OZ ( a contemporary twist on the Wizard of OZ), and an action/psychological thriller – Vengeance of the Wolf.
My latest book, The Atrium – a journey of self-reflection where the protagonist is forced to confront the traumas and decisions that have shaped his existence while inside an atrium that transcends the boundaries of time and space will also be available.
For those who are interested in “out-of-body” – The Larger World Series may be of help in your journey of knowledge. And there is something for all those who love poetry as well – Tapestry – a glimpse inside the mind of a poet, with a slightly medieval tone depicting a world of inspirations, hopes, fears, loves, and successes to ponder in the wee hours of any long and lonely night.
Please join me on Saturday, February 3rd, as I am looking forward to meeting you, giving some insight about my books and signing copies for the many readers out there. Come visit me!
Happy Reading!
Solitaire
New Review for 2024 – The Atrium
Thank you Emilee for the review of my latest book – The Atrium
“The Atrium” by Solitaire Parke is a thought-provoking exploration of the human condition, masterfully crafted within the confines of a mysterious and symbolic atrium. The narrative unfolds after a harrowing car crash, trapping the protagonist in a space adorned with framed pictures that serve as gateways to pivotal moments in his life. What follows is a poignant journey of self-reflection, forcing the protagonist to confront the traumas and decisions that have shaped his existence.
Parke skillfully weaves a tale that delves into the complexity of human nature, presenting the protagonist with the challenge of reliving past events. This unique narrative device creates a rich tapestry of emotions, as the character grapples with the consequences of his actions and the motivations that drove them. The atrium becomes a crucible for self-discovery, compelling the protagonist to scrutinize his own morality and motives.
The novel navigates through a series of life-altering decisions, prompting a profound examination of compassion, purpose, and the interconnectedness of our actions. Parke invites readers to contemplate the capacity for change within ourselves and the transformative power of empathy.
The struggle between life and death decisions adds a layer of suspense, creating an engaging and immersive experience for readers. As the protagonist faces the prospect of determining his fate, the narrative unfolds with a delicate balance between introspection and external consequences.
In “The Atrium,” Solitaire Parke crafts a narrative that transcends the boundaries of time and space, offering readers a profound meditation on the human experience. The novel prompts reflection on the choices we make, the impact on those around us, and the potential for redemption and growth. “The Atrium” is more than a story; it is a compelling exploration of the human psyche, urging readers to consider the transformative power of self-awareness and the enduring possibility of a life filled with compassion and purpose.
For this book and others listed in my book section, check my website –
Happy New Year 2024!
Solitaire
Christmas Movies that were Based on Books!
There are so many Christmas movies out right now that you can hardly watch them all. The streaming services are chocked full of every kind imaginable. If you are a Christmas or Holiday fan it’s interesting to know which movies were based on books. There are some that I already knew, but there were many of which I was not aware. So, if you are a fan of Christmas or the Holidays in general, you might want to grab some popcorn and watch some of these entertaining and often thought provoking movies and it might be fun to find the books and read them as well. You will often find that the original books contain information that isn’t revealed in the movie which can be interesting.
- The Nutcracker – From the 1816 short story by German author E.T.A. Hoffmann, The Nutcracker and the Mouse King, a fantasy set on Christmas Eve in the early 1800s and centered around the excitement and anticipation of Christmas gifts.
- A Christmas Story – 9-year-old Ralphie Parker gets his ideal Christmas gift (the Red Rider air rifle), (you’ll shoot your eye out). If you liked the movie you’ll probably like to read author Jean Shepherd’s In God We Trust: All Others Pay Cash, a collection of short stories upon which the movie was based.
- Christmas with the Kranks – Tim Allen and Jamie Lee Curtis live in the suburbs and are a couple new to empty nesting who decide to skip Christmas and go on a cruise. Upon finding out that their daughter will be home for Christmas after all, it turns into a hilarious disaster that you won’t want to miss. This 2004 modern classic is based off John Grisham’s 2001 novel titled Skipping Christmas.
- National Lampoon’s Christmas Vacation – This hilarious 1989 Christmas movie was based on a short story by John Hughes titled Christmas ’59 that was published in National Lampoon magazine in December 1980.
- Miracle on 34th Street – This 1947 Christmas classic is about a department store Santa, a single mom, and her 6-year-old daughter who doesn’t believe in Santa Claus. Miracle on 34th Street by American author Valentine Davies was also a best-selling novella in 1947.
- It’s a Wonderful Life – George Bailey showed us what a difference one life can make for those around us during James Stewart’s Christmas classic. The Greatest Gift by Philip Van Doren Stern was originally written in 1938, self-published, and mailed to around 200 people as a holiday newsletter.
- The Bishop’s Wife -This movie from 1947 tells of one clergyman’s prayers being answered in unexpected ways. The Bishop’s Wife is based on the 1928 novella by author Robert Nathan. A book that has charm, wit and wisdom that makes it a classic.
- Meet me in St. Louis – This is a 1944 Christmas classic/musical that was originally published as a series of short stories in The New Yorker magazine (titled The Kensington Stories) before it was published as a novel in 1942 by author Sally Benson.
- A Christmas Carol – Charles Dickens’ legendary novella, A Christmas Carol , was first published on December 19th, 1843. By Christmas Eve of that same year, the novella was sold out. The book has been republished many times and there have been countless screen adaptions.
- How the Grinch Stole Christmas – A beloved Dr. Seuss children’s book before it was adapted for the big screen multiple times, How the Grinch Stole Christmas was first published in 1957 and written in Dr. Seuss’s iconic rhymed verses. Despite being for children, the book was notable for criticizing the commercialization of Christmas.
- The Polar Express – A children’s book by Chris Van Allsburg, The Polar Express was published in 1985. It tells the story of a young skeptical boy who takes a life-changing trip on the Polar Express where he receives the first gift from Santa Claus.
- You’ll also find dozens of Hallmark Christmas movies that were adapted from books.
I hope you enjoy the many movies and books of the Holiday Season with all your friends and family. Have a very Merry Christmas!
Solitaire
Making Thanksgiving Special
Thanksgiving is a special time of year when families and friends get together and enjoy a delicious meal and spend time with each other. We’re all so busy most of the time that making that extra effort to come together is important and doesn’t have to only include the traditional food. Here are some ideas to give your day an added boost of fun and tradition.
Participate in a turkey trot or just go for a walk and enjoy a leisurely stroll around your neighborhood or a local park.
Tune in to the annual Macy’s Thanksgiving Day Parade.
Watch the National Dog Show.
Start decorating for the holidays.
Football is another tradition, along with appetizers.
At the Thanksgiving table, let everyone say what they’re thankful for.
Thanksgiving movies are always a fun way to gather, either at home or the movie theater.
Play charades or bring out the board games.
Reminisce over family photo books.
Serve breakfast at a local soup kitchen or help deliver Thanksgiving dinners to the community.
Call relatives that may not have been able to come to your gathering and let them know you’re thinking of them.
Take an after dinner or evening stroll.
Most of all, remember to be grateful for the people in your life and for all your blessings!
Happy Thanksgiving to everyone!
Solitaire
Annual Fall Festival – Southwest Institute of Healing Arts 2023
Please come join us at the Festival for a Meet ‘n Greet &
Book Signing. I’d love to chat with you.
Solitaire
May God Bless All of America’s Veterans!
Thank you for your sacrifice, you gave your strength, your youth and time.
You did a job not many will. You deserved our respect and you do still.
Though you didn’t give your life, you were a willing soul.
Only your brothers in combat, your suffering truly know.
We love that you are here with us and honor who you are.
A grateful nation appreciates every single scar
That wrote upon the slate of you, though you were very brave.
You came back to us a hero, you are not the same.
For you have learned to bear the weight of defending freedom’s call.
But you did come back, and that is what we give thanks for most of all.
We honor you on Veteran’s Day. Thank you for your service!!!
Solitaire
Best Quotes Ever!
Nothing turns around a really bad day like changing your focus to being grateful for what we have instead of what we don’t. Positive emotions and reliving happy memories give us a boost like no other and certainly improve our mental health. We live in crazy times that shout out for positive rather than negative thinking. There is always something to be thankful for, even on our not-so-great days. Let’s concentrate on having an attitude of gratitude, positivity, and encouragement that we can share with others who usually need it as much as we do. Here are a few quotes from people you may or may not have heard of but might give us a new perspective after an especially difficult day.
Solitaire
Your Worst Nightmare!
What causes your worst nightmares? What if someone wants you dead, but you have no idea who or why? If you love horror books or movies, this one will make you think twice about falling asleep – particularly if you are alone.
In my horror/thriller, Vengeance of the Wolf, you are drawn into the world of dreams. It’s the story of a shocking assassin who works through dreams using a technique that seems physically impossible, to end the lives of those deemed responsible for an untimely death. Detectives are completely baffled, and just as they appear to get closer to determining the person’s identity, they are completely thrown off and their efforts seem to take them nowhere. Extremely shaken at the horrific scenes to which they are led, the question remains – why is this happening and where is it leading? Only the assassin has the answers to their questions – answers that may be too unsettling to be revealed.
You can find the answers to these unnerving questions in my book Vengeance of the Wolf available at my website, where you can read the first chapter.
Suspenseful and thrilling, this will have you sleeping with the lights on! Happy Halloween!
Solitaire
Exploring the Beauty of Poetry
THE TREES
My ears detect the sigh of trees.
The smell of salt from the ocean breeze
That touches sweat upon my brow,
And brings my thoughts to here and now.
The leaves have sung a sweet refrain,
Of spoken love and conquered pain,
That only comes to those who dream,
Though never knowing what it means.
The branches filter out the sun
And cool the day until it’s done.
But dropping garments on the ground,
They float and fall without a sound.
Profuse they stretch to meet the sky
And touch the clouds that chance sends by.
Living in a plaintive maze
While watching nature through her days.
A solitary vigil here
That cloaks the world throughout the year.
A living carpet that forever stands,
In every heart…In every land.
Poetry is a type of creative writing found in cultures around the world. It is a type of literature or artistic writing that attempts to stir a reader’s imagination or emotions. The poet does this by carefully choosing and arranging language for its meaning, sound, and rhythm. The author is attempting to communicate a message through the piece, and it can be a powerful teaching tool. It is a unique and captivating form of literary art that evokes human emotions and is often interpreted differently by each reader. Poetry, more than any other form of writing, allows the author to convey their ideas and feelings and communicate those expressions to others in a way that may be encouraging or thought provoking.
Poems can be structured, with rhyming lines and meter, the rhythm and emphasis of a line based on syllabic beats. Poems can also be free-form, which follows no formal structure. You can read all about the different forms of poetry here –
My book of poetry is called 
TAPESTRY, and can be found on my website here –
Review –
“There is as much beauty and wonder inside this book as there is on the cover.
I don’t profess to know a lot about poetry. I just know I like to read it.
It moves me the way a wonderful painting or other piece of art does.
I don’t have to understand it, I just have to feel it.
Tapestry moved me in many ways. It still does.
I keep it on my ottoman and when I’m not busy, I sit quietly and open the book to a random page and lose myself.”
I hope you will take the time to enjoy some poetry now and then. It is food for the mind and soul.
Solitaire
The Sands of Mars by Arthur C. Clarke
Currently, I’m reading The Sands of Mars which was published in 1951, one year before I was born. Arthur C. Clarke qualifies, at least to me, as one of the founding fathers of present-day science fiction, present day being from the 1950’s through the 21st century.
This science fiction classic is the story of the first science fiction author invited on a trip to Mars. His published books about the red planet were released long before anyone had ever been there and revolve around not only how wrong he was about that world, but how much he came to love it.
The plot is rife with political intrigue, includes a thin line of young romance, and a true testimony of man’s fortitude and determination to succeed no matter how difficult the task may be. The Sands of Mars is a reminder that it’s not a matter of boldly going where nobody’s ever been, so much as learning from previous innovators about what we should do when we get there.
The book was written in a more innocent time and reflects the era’s differences when compared with today. However, his Odyssey books are as timeless today as they were when he wrote them. I would recommend his work to everyone, knowing more people will like it than not. I haven’t yet read all his books, but the man’s catalog is extensive. Oh, and don’t worry about which one to pick, as I haven’t found a bad one yet. I’m willing to bet you won’t either.
Other books by Arthur C. Clarke that I’ve read include:
The Fountains of Paradise
The Nine Billion Names of God
The City and the Stars
The Sentinel
Childhood’s End
Rendezvous with Rama
The Hammer of God
Earthlight
Solitaire
Solitaire Parke - Sci-Fi/Fantasy Books 