Stores that matter are stories that make me feel, invigorate me or serve as a call to action for me. Stories that matter are stories that awaken my spirit to issues, be they spiritual, emotional, moral, social or a combination. Stories that matter are stories that call all my emotions into play: sadness, anger, grief, happiness, despair, joy, etc. Stories that make me think. Stories that provide me with indulgences, like romance, but that, at their core, have something important to say. Some stories are written with the intent of providing the reader with an escape from real life; stories that matter, however, are written to make readers –more aware– of reality; to provoke compassion and empathy, love and hate, anger and grief. Stories that matter are the occurrences, catastrophes, triumphs, frustrations and joys of every day life: welcome to my collection of thoughts, feelings, idiosyncrasies, hopes and dreams—collectively known as Stories that Matter.
Reading is an exercise in empathy; an exercise in walking in someone else’s shoes for a while.” Malorie Blackman
Fictional characters have been some of the best friends I’ve ever had. Reading makes me feel safe, happy, comforted and, perhaps most importantly, engaged. My mind comes alive while reading: I’ve gleaned insights into myself, had my beliefs challenged, and made real-life friends with reading.
Chapter Chats is a book club! It’s a way for me to share the stories that are the closest to my heart with others, have meaningful conversations and develop new friendships. I’m happy to provide a complimentary copy of the winning book to anyone who joins! The book club’s new selection will start November 18, 2024.
To join Chapter Chats:
Review the links below to learn more about each of the books.
Broken Taya is fifteen. She’s an outcast. She’s a nomad. She’s rebellious. She is a survivor of rape and targeted bullying at school. And she can’t take anymore.
Reviews:
This book has me on the edge of my seat the entire time. I just wish I could have done something to help Taya. I just felt I needed to protect her because I wanted to be her friend because she needed one my heart breaks because of how she was treated especially at school. – Rayona, Amazon Reviewer
I haven’t read a book that hit me emotionally as hard as BROKEN in a long time. From page one till the very end it holds on to your heart and just never lets go. In fact i delayed finishing the book for days just to keep the main character Taya with me, as if i could do something about protecting her if I did… – Jorge Hernandez, Amazon Reviewer
I felt like I was reading my life story. This book … really drives home the desire to feel loved, to feel like you’re not just a damaged thing for others to poke and make fun of. Thank you so much for this message of hope. Kira Hays
The Storyteller Daphne’s father is a schizophrenic who hears voices in his head that warn him his daughter is out to kill him. When her beloved dog is injured trying to protect her, Daphne escapes to a nearby farm and finds Cole. Love blooms between the two of them, but Cole’s past is marred by a mysterious storyteller with dangerous connections to both of their lives.
Reviews:
This book … effortlessly merging coming-of-age, abuse narrative, and romance elements into a compelling tale. The author adeptly navigates these themes, crafting a story that profoundly resonates with its audience. I relished every moment of this book – Sugdos – Amazon Reviewer
The characters are well developed and intriguing. It has good dialogue and fast-paced storyline. The book Is awesome, suspenseful, and a great read. Kumar Mishra – Amazon Reviewer
A modern fairy tale – kindredspirits – Amazon reviewer
Ash Set in the grey landscape of Auschwitz, the narrator befriends a mysterious storyteller who brings hope in the midst of evil.
Reviews:
… a young, unnamed prisoner clings to memories of her lost family. Amidst the horror, she finds a friend who sparks hope with a secret plan to bring color back into their lives. This poignant narrative highlights the power of imagination and friendship even in the darkest times. Interesting book. – Hope L. Amazon Reviewer
This book will give you goosebumps. Storytimer
Dance For Me Maelea is a young girl living in Cambodia. When her younger sister becomes ill with dengue fever, a potentially fatal disease, her father travels to Phom Phen. He returns with a doctor and a mysterious woman who promises Maelea will come with her and go to school. Instead of a classroom, though, Maelea discovers she’s been sold into child trafficking. The next two years are a harrowing journey of survival.
Reviews:
This is an important book. Ms. Johnson’s novel is but one soldier in the crusade to end the nightmare. Michael J. Tucker, Author of Aquarius Falling and nominee for the Silver Falchion Award.
.. extremely well written, and the tragic tale of Maelea simply lives on the pages. E. Hull, Amazon Reviewer
Gripping read, informative, engaging and lively dialogue. Harrowing story that exposes the lives of some children. Detailed descriptions. Emma, Amazon Reviewer
This is the most horrific story of child abuse I have ever read. It is well written and you feel when reading it that you are there with the children in that dark and horrible place. This story will stay with me for a very long time. Chrissy, Amazon Reviewer
Next click here and VOTE for one of the titles above. Voting will be open until October 31, 2024.
Finally, click here to complete the form and join Chapter Chats!
Tiffini Johnson 