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Talented Writers with whom Coach Ina is Proud to Work!
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Pawpress is proud to announce the birth of Chester L. Richards' new book series
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About the Treks Beyond the Great Potato series
Chester L. Richards charted a path unlike any other—one that led him from the wonders of science and engineering to the wilds of uncharted rivers and exotic creatures with sharp teeth or fangs, some of them human. Now, in The Trek Continues: More Memoirs of a Rocket Scientist, the award winning author of From the Potato to Star Trek and Beyond shares a Tholian Web night and surprising after-effects in his new, unforgettable collection of true-life stories about extraordinary people, leading-edge projects, the love of his life Sarah and oh, those wilds.
Chester L. Richards charted a path unlike any other—one that led him from the wonders of science and engineering to the wilds of uncharted rivers and exotic creatures with sharp teeth or fangs, some of them human. Now, in The Trek Continues: More Memoirs of a Rocket Scientist, the award winning author of From the Potato to Star Trek and Beyond shares a Tholian Web night and surprising after-effects in his new, unforgettable collection of true-life stories about extraordinary people, leading-edge projects, the love of his life Sarah and oh, those wilds.
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From The Potato to Star Trek and BeyondMemoirs of a Rocket Scientist
Author, Chester L. Richards Narrow escapes from bouts with The Potato were just the beginning. In his first book, Chester faces the wrath of The Great Potato, hippos rushing at the white water rafts the author and crew were manning in the Omo River in Ethiopia, a crazed gunman who aimed a rifle at his belly, a rocket test stand blowing up, and many more adventures during a life Chester L. Richards deliberately keeps filling to the brim. Reviews, Book 1, From the Potato to Star Trek and Beyond
"I wholeheartedly recommend this book with 5 full stars, shining brightly! ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ Great read. Some thoughts and reminiscences from a well lived (and slightly worn) life! I’m sincerely glad that I read this book! The first page left me with a lump in my throat. The final page left me (literally) with tears in my eyes...He is so compelling that by the time he is telling us about his father, mother, and grandfather’s hernia, I’m committed and genuinely care about them, and I found myself rooting for their success even though they have already been gone by the time the book was written...He also describes the ‘potato’, but not until you’re 66% through the book, and it is the absolute LAST thing that you could possibly imagine it to be...The book is genuine, it is honest, and it is him!...I will never watch 'The Tholian Web' again without thinking about an orbital rocket defense network, how many mirrors and how much gas it takes to make a laser, or the dangers of hidden rocks and waterfalls in a river again...And I appreciate that... Read full review by Thaddeus Tuffentsamer, Daily Star Trek News. Also an Amazon Vine Voice Review. "In his captivating memoir, "From The Potato to Star Trek and Beyond," Chester L. Richards invites readers on a rollercoaster ride through a life that defies convention. ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ Richards, a seasoned rocket scientist, shares a series of enthralling stories that not only detail his experiences with the unpredictable and the extraordinary but also serve as a testament to the resilience of the human spirit. The title of the book itself, which combines seemingly unrelated concepts like potatoes and Star Trek, alludes to the wide variety of experiences that take place inside its pages. Richards skillfully crafts a story that flows from almost fatal meetings with "The Potato" to unplanned contacts with Gene Roddenberry, the man responsible for creating Star Trek. The commonplace and the remarkable are juxtaposed to produce a lively and captivating story that has readers flipping pages with eagerness. Read full review by Deb Patrick, TheBookReview.com "Wisdom of Space and Time ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ Author Richards' memoir is classic storytelling through the eras. I liked the black and white photos of iconic moments coloured by the words and my imagination. I wanted to know the author beyond his external stories and he delivered his inner fears and triumphs quenching my curiosities about his life motives. I recommend this book. --Tom Dutta, Host The Quiet Warrior Show, TedTalks speaker, Author, Business Consultant "What a beautiful book! ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ I returned to Solvang yesterday, following a three week absence, to find a copy of Chet's book. I could hardly wait to read it, and started flipping through some of the stories immediately. A modern epic! Jeffery J. Puschell, Ph.D. Chief Scientist, Space Systems, Raytheon Intelligence & Space Division, AIAA Fellow (American Institute of Aeronautics and Astronautics), SPIE Fellow (Society of Photo Instrumentation Engineers), NASA ESTO IRIS Principal Investigator "A Riveting Journey of a Rocket Scientist's Memoirs ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ Not only is From The Potato to Star Trek and Beyond a memoir, but it's also an ode to a life well lived and proof that any experience—no matter how difficult—can be seen as an adventure. Chester L. Richards encourages readers to consider their own travels, discovering delight in the act of storytelling and motivation in the face of hardship. For those who are in search of a story that defies convention and provides an insight into the remarkable life of a rocket scientist who dared to go where few others have ventured, this memoir is a must-read. Read full review |
Available everywhere you buy books online now! Or ask at your favorite bookstore!
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The Trek ContinuesMore Memoirs of a Rocket Scientist
Author, Chester L. Richards In Book 2, The Trek Continues: More adventures of a rocket scientist, the near death moments keep coming. There's a 25 foot long crocodile, a big, deadly scorpion, baboons armed with missiles, and more rapids near-fatal moments in Ethiopia and the Grand Canyon. And more about his remarkable late wife Sarah, love of his life, and now stories about their furry friends' antics show us a whole new side of Chester. Throughout this volume, we see how these new stories are continuing to help him cope with the deep pain Sarah's departure from this plane caused. Early Praise for Book 2, The Trek Continues
"I give it 10/10! ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐I wholeheartedly recommend this book. I found myself smiling and chuckling throughout, and so riveted I was unable to put The Trek Continues down…" -- Ella Bennett, Writer and Activist, UK, new reader of Treks Beyond The Great Potato I had to keep turning the page to see what would happen next! ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ I really enjoyed the first book, and the new stories in The Trek Continues -- such fun to read! I just had to keep turning the pages to see what was going to happen. That scorpion...it almost got his toes! I like in this one that there's more science...and the dog, and cats, chasing each other. And I loved the new Star Trek story. That last story…ah that is beautiful…Sarah was amazing. And after the trauma of losing her, he goes on with other stories…hopping all over the place. I forgive him for hopping…he’s a good storyteller. Interesting…we get into his mind and how it works…I like it…I guess I like him. He leads an interesting life…of his own making. Maybe people should make more out of their lives…thinking about that. — Mary Kenner, Associate Editor, RKEdit, retired Clinical Laboratory Scientist II, reader of both books in the series "I loved the new book! 'The Fairy' = hilarious. ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ I loved the new Sarah stories. And cats. Cats are the best. I especially enjoyed the history of UCI. I was so glad the Anteater won the competition for mascot. Chet was spot on about the mud. Loved the bit about Hycon Engineering. Sounds like a fascinating time. Thank you, Chet, for writing these stories. --Marilyn Scott-Waters, Writer and Illustrator, reader of both books in the new series. Her works include: The Toymaker: Paper Toys That You Can Make Yourself; Haunted Histories; The Search For Vile Things. |
A poet's hiking vacation turns deadly in soaring Mojave heat; his true survival story leaves you with chills. Rosenthal’s shocking ordeal was covered by The Discovery Channel and on "Fight to Survive" with Bear Grylls.
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Salvation Canyon: A True Story of Desert Survival in Joshua Tree
Author: Ed Rosenthal
Story Development Editor: Coach Ina A real estate broker in Downtown Los Angeles, Ed Rosenthal's passion is poetry, writing about the historic buildings he sells and advocates to preserve. He hates slumlords, is fed up with his buyers, and finally escapes to the Mojave to bathe at a natural spring and take his favorite hiking trip in Joshua Tree National Park. But his vacation soon turns into a nightmare. Over six grueling days without water, food, or hope, he discovers a well of perseverance in the snippets of his life that play over the deadly but inspiring landscape, in which he finds himself utterly and inexplicably lost. Read more
The God of Random Chance has, despite his best efforts his whole life, finally caught up to him. He describes his ordeal and its setting in intimate, vivid detail: surreal visions mix with wayfinding and intuitive wisdom in a poet’s-eye view of the life-lessons and magic that the desert can hold. |
 Poetry political, at times couched as a bagel -- or potato, with many an homage to the fair sex, and a touch of the randy. Click the book to find out more, buy or download your copy.
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Of Politics, Ladies and BagelsOf Politics, Ladies and Bagels Poetry Provocative and Punny Author: Gene Zahn Edited by Coach Ina. Published by Pawpress “Gene Zahn's poems are a sweet reminder of a time, not so long ago, when the world felt less complicated, our relationships seemed more meaningful, our communication more heartfelt. I pick up his book and read a few of them whenever I need a good dose of that...or just a good chuckle.” Sam Rose, TV Producer and writer, author of “The Way Back - Heal Your Self, Heal The World” Excerpts, More Reviews, Buy the Book, About the Author |
Wine, Women, Whispers....Tales by a master storyteller who was kidnapped, twice, was almost killed by the best hospital in London…A boxer...Serial entrepreneur... Lover of ladies, food and wine
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Wine, Women, Whispers Author: Alon Mintz, a.k.a. Rocky Mintziano, Adam Savage, Ali Mintez, et. al. Editor: Coach Ina. Publisher: Pawpress "Wine, Women, Whispers is about a quirky and very interesting man of the world...I loved the homage to his mother, which is very tender. The makes me want to know more about the author -- whether he is called Alon Mintz (his given name), Rocky Mintziano, Adam Savage, Adam Stephens, or Ali Mintz. His crazy and not so crazy escapades are fun to read, and make me kind of envious that I haven't done half the things he has in his lifetime." Susan Pinkus, Former Director, Los Angeles Times Polls Excerpts, more reviews Buy the Book You can read a comment from Alon about working with Ina here |
 Memoirs of the early days of oil, penned by a man with a keen wit and eye for history |
Go East, Young Man, Go East Author: Charles Alan Tichenor Editor: Coach Ina. Publisher: Pawpress Absorbing glimpses into history in the making...from an eyewitness to the Oil Boom Dr. Tichenor, a.k.a. "The Cat," or "Unk," begins with life as he lived it in 1920's America, moving ever eastward to the Middle East mid-century, where he was sent as a minister to work with the Aramco flock. Today called Saudi Aramco, the oil giant is the largest in the world...and it all began with secret treaties, a Saudi American partnership, a benevolent king, somewhat reluctant Bedouins, camels, and black gold.... Read Excerpts Reviews 👇 |
Once I started I didn't Want To stop
A great book for people who are interested in current affairs, historians, anyone interested in history.
-- Larry N. Beard, Col. (Ret.) US Army
I WOULD DEFINITELY RECOMMEND THIS BOOK
I liked reading about the religions and his connections with them, the history...the humor that lies beneath his words.
--Christine Nodine, Bishop, CA
I WOULD DEFINITELY RECOMMEND THIS BOOK
...I couldn't put it down! I kept wanting to learn more.
--Howard Westley, Re. WWII and commercial pilot, member of Aviation Pioneers
-- Larry N. Beard, Col. (Ret.) US Army
I WOULD DEFINITELY RECOMMEND THIS BOOK
I liked reading about the religions and his connections with them, the history...the humor that lies beneath his words.
--Christine Nodine, Bishop, CA
I WOULD DEFINITELY RECOMMEND THIS BOOK
...I couldn't put it down! I kept wanting to learn more.
--Howard Westley, Re. WWII and commercial pilot, member of Aviation Pioneers
Books of poems from a master, Chrystine Julian
Wild carpet rides that enchant poets and civilians alike.
Edited by Coach Ina
Wild carpet rides that enchant poets and civilians alike.
Edited by Coach Ina
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Sensual Spirit
Poetry and thoughts from the place where body and soul meet  'What a rapturous book!' Gayle Brandeis, author of 'Fruitflesh, Seeds of Inspiration for Women that Write,' 'Self-Storage,' and Bellwether Prize winner, 'Book of Dead Birds.' |
Meandering Mindfulness
Poetry from the place where wander and wonder merge
 Once again Chrystine Julian paints a colorful world of the sensual, spiritual, political and this time, the 'silly.' A book that appeals both to seasoned poets and those who usually read prose. |
You can read Chrystine's comments about working with Coach Ina here.
Thanks, Chrystine. It's always a joy working with you and your sparkling, mystical mind.
Thanks, Chrystine. It's always a joy working with you and your sparkling, mystical mind.
 Click the cover to read excerpts and reviews, or to buy or post your own review! |
Broken Whole, A California Tale of Craziness, Creativity and ChaosAuthor: Keith Adams A very brave undertaking, "Broken Whole" provides the reader with a fascinating glimpse into the mind of a man who has been to hell and back. Author Keith Adams, a highly accomplished man, tells of the time he slipped into delusions of grandeur alternating with fits of deep despair, and slowly found his way through the chaos. A tale that inspires, poignant and relevant in today's manic depressive times. You can read Keith's comments about working with Coach Ina here. Thanks, Keith, for the kind words. |
 The Angel Chronicles by J.K. Johnson is a captivating mystery/romance with a connection to the other world that readers say heals, too. |
About The Angel Chronicles...
One day J.K. Johnson’s mom committed suicide in front of her eyes. The 35 year old author went into a daze after the coroner took the body away. It’s all a blur now, but she knows she had a serious automobile accident, driving while drunk. For the next six years of her life, J.K. found herself behind bars because of the severity of the injury to the other driver. The story in this book began the day all this took place. Every day of those six years behind bars, the lines of the mystery/romance, with an otherworldly connection, were channeled to her, and she wrote them down, often on toilet paper. And every night the other inmates would listen anxiously for the next installment… Read excerpts here BUY THE BOOK |
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https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ZkSp5l2L9-E We are happy to introduce you to Kay Roberts, one of our most talented writers. Left, see her reading selections she wrote for her own memoir. The first begins, "I was born on the day they issued the repeal on Prohibition..."
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The "Stories From The Heart" series.
Compilations of tales written by members of Coach Ina's Footprints Writing Clubs, these volumes take the reader from a lion's mouth in India during the time of the Raj, to the American midwest, where one of our authors was taught to steal coal by his parents during the Depression. Incidentally, his parents were Armenian, and escaped from the bloodbath there in 1915. From these tales to weathering the Holocaust in Poland to collecting shells on the beach in Santa Monica, CA., you'll find stories that are whimsical, poignant, vivid portraits of times past and present, written by a fascinating group of people. |
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 More Enchanting Memoirs and Imagination Tools to Help You Write Your Own Enchanting Memoirs "This book is so good...the Pawprints (now Footprints) writing group creates a sense of community, which people lack these days. People get to tell their stories -- that's the best thing. And the book is beautiful. With the book, the website where I read some of the stories first, altogether, what a great service!" Diane Slade, artist and therapist, Napa, CA Read Excerpts Back cover BUY THE BOOK |
Contact Ina to find out more about how the Coach can help you with editing, publishing and marketing services for your memoir, book of poetry, or novel.
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