Broken Pencil Reviews Rolli's "Plumstuff" 

Broken Pencil a mega-zine dedicated to exploring independent creative action, from the best of the underground press, interviews, original fiction and commentary on all aspects of the indie arts. From the hilarious to the perverse, reviews Rolli's "Plumstuff".

 Charles Anderson, is one of those playful polymaths who wins you over with his humour and whimsical line-drawings then bludgeons you with gleeful irreverence and wordplay.

Read the full review here.

Coming soon: The Harvesting of Haystacks Kane

Steve Schlam’s Debut Novel “The Harvesting of Haystacks Kane” set to captivate readers with its unique approach to storytelling and exploration of deep existential themes.

We are proud to announce the official release date of March 4, 2024 for "The Harvesting of Haystacks Kane". 

“The Harvesting of Haystacks Kane” is a powerful and accomplished literary work that is set to captivate readers with its unique approach to storytelling and exploration of deep existential themes. 
The novel follows the story of Herschel Cain, known as Haystacks Kane, a reluctant professional wrestler and passionate butterfly collector who has been exploited by ruthless promoters, managers, and even his own wife. After suffering a severe injury in the ring, Haystacks lies in his hospital bed, unable to speak and struggling to uncover the deeper truths of his existence.
Schlam’s masterful use of stream-of-consciousness narrative technique brings a remarkable plasticity to the literary form, immersing readers in Haystacks’ innermost thoughts, emotions, and memories. Through a series of flashbacks and introspections, the novel explores the existential aspects of Haystacks’ life, including his search for meaning, identity, and ultimate liberation from the pain and suffering of his past.
“The Harvesting of Haystacks Kane” is a profound and insightful work that delves into the spiritual and philosophical dimensions of the human experience, and offers readers a deeply moving and unforgettable journey into the heart of the human condition.
Schlam’s exceptional talent as a writer shines through in this novel, as he skillfully weaves together a tapestry of voices, perspectives, and emotions to create a powerful and thought-provoking literary work that is sure to leave a lasting impression on readers.

ABOUT THE BOOK
Haystacks Kane is a 607-pound professional wrestler and dedicated butterfly collector. He’s been preyed upon, his innate kindness and gentle good nature harvested by unscrupulous promoters and conniving managers; an ex-wife who keeps him on the hook for alimony; fellow denizens of the sordid netherworld he inhabits; and the raucous ravenous crowds with a thirst for violent cheap thrills.  
  Now, gravely injured and unable to speak in the wake of his disastrous encounter in the ring with his archrival and nemesis Valentino, he lies motionless in his hospital bed (indeed, two beds lashed together), immobilized, his body broken. Fighting for his very life, he drifts in and out of consciousness seeking to uncover the deeper truth of his existence, rummaging through the trunk of his memories to discover exactly what it is--the it that has deprived him of his wife, taken every member of his family from him, laid him low, and the it that will release him from the bonds of his history and transport him to the Eden he dreams of: Greece, Rhodes, the Valley of the Butterflies known as Petaloudes, where he can live as his true self at last, in peace and tranquility amid “the sound of butterflies.”

About the Author:
Steve Schlam was born in New York City and has lived in cities and towns across the United States and in Mexico. An actor as well as a writer, he has performed on stages in all the places he has called home and earned a Master’s Degree in Creative Writing and English under the tutelage of “Catch-22” author Joseph Heller. “The Harvesting of Haystacks Kane” is his first published novel.

For more information about the author and his work, please visit us at www.8thHousePublishing.com.

8th House at 2023 Toronto International Festival of Authors 

The World in Other Words : Bengalis in CanLit Event

Join 8th House author K. Gandhar Chakravarty at the The World in Other Words: Bengalis in CanLit event: 

1:00pm ET, Sunday, September 24, 2023, Brigantine Patio, 60 mins. More information can be found here.

We're excited to announce an exceptional literary gathering at the upcoming 2023 Toronto International Festival of Authors. "The World in Other Words," an enlightening author reading event that spotlights the invaluable contributions of cross-cultural influence in CanLit, is celebrating authors of Bengali origin in Canadian Literature this year. Celebrating the rich diversity within CanLit, this event showcases the significance of Bengali writers on the esteemed stages of Canadian literary awards, such as the Scotiabank Giller Prize and the Griffin Poetry Prize. Join us on Sunday, September 24, 2023, at the scenic Brigantine Patio, as we engage in a thought-provoking dialogue featuring distinguished 8th House author K. Gandhar Chakravarty, the insightful Arif Anwar, and the talented Laboni Islam. Facilitating the discourse is the renowned writer and curator Subrata Kumar Das. This session promises to be a compelling exploration of literary heritage and cross-cultural narratives. The event commences at 1:00pm ET, offering you an enriching 60-minute experience. We're excited to welcome everyone to this FREE and open-to-the-public event, where words and worlds seamlessly converge. Don't miss this unique opportunity to be part of a literary exchange that transcends borders and bridges hearts.

From the 2023 TIFA organizers:

"Canadian Literature encompasses the contributions of writers and poets of many different language origins. Bengali origin writers are no less significant in the expansive canon of CanLit. Many of whom, such as Bharati Mukherjee, are represented on the short and long lists of Canada’s major literary awards, including the Scotiabank Giller Prize, Griffin Poetry Prize and others. Meet a few of these English-language writers of Bengali origin at this exciting talk session, including (8th House Author) K. Gandhar Chakravarty, Arif Anwar and Laboni Islam. Noted writer and curator Subrata Kumar Das will moderate the conversation."

"Mr. Grimsby" by Rolli in the latest issue of Cutleaf

8th House author Rolli graces the pages of the latest edition of Cutleaf with his compelling and introspective essay, "Mr. Grimsby." With his signature blend of wit, candor, and literary finesse, Rolli delves into the intricacies of the human experience, captivating readers and sparking profound contemplation.

In "Mr. Grimsby," Rolli crafts a narrative that intimately explores the depths of emotion and the complexities of mental health. Through his evocative prose, he invites readers on a journey that traverses the peaks and valleys of the human psyche, shedding light on the enigmatic Mr. Grimsby—a character that embodies the shadows we all wrestle with from time to time.

This remarkable essay follows closely on the heels of Rolli's recently released and critically acclaimed work, Plum Stuff. As an accomplished author with a knack for delving into the nuances of the human condition, Rolli continues to captivate audiences and ignite meaningful conversations with his thought-provoking writing.

Rolli's uncanny ability to craft narratives that resonate deeply with readers has solidified his place as a literary luminary. His work has a way of eliciting introspection and fostering empathy, making him a guiding voice in contemporary literature.

We are delighted to share Rolli's captivating essay, 'Mr. Grimsby,' which you may read here, in the latest issue of Cutleaf. Readers and enthusiasts are encouraged to delve into the pages of Cutleaf to experience the magic of "Mr. Grimsby" firsthand. Rolli's unique voice, distinctive style, narrative brilliance and his willingness to delve into the complexities of life, promise an unforgettable reading experience that will leave you both delighted and inspired.

For more information about Rolli and his remarkable literary journey, as well as to explore his latest release Plum Stuff, please visit 8th House Publishing.

About Rolli: ROLLI (aka Charles Anderson) is a Canadian author and cartoonist. His words/drawings have appeared in The New York Times, The Saturday Evening Post, Playboy, The Wall Street Journal, The Walrus and in variuos literary magazines across North America – Quarterly West, The New Quarterly, subTerrain, The Antigonish Review, Grain, Byline, Stickman Review, Feathertale Review, and many others. Rolli was the recipient of the 2007 John Kenneth Galbraith Literary Award; and as a winner of the 2008/2009 Commonwealth Short Story Competition, his work has been broadcast in over 30 countries. Follow him on Twitter at @rolliwrites.

About Cutleaf: Cutleaf is a prestigious literary journal dedicated to showcasing exceptional works and thought-provoking narratives. With a commitment to curating a diverse range of voices and styles, Cutleaf offers readers an immersive and enriching reading experience that lingers long after the final word.

8th House Publishing Teams Up with Edelweiss to Amplify Access to Exclusive Advanced Review Copies (ARCs)

8th House Publishing is thrilled to announce an exciting collaboration with Edelweiss, the premier online platform for discovering, requesting, and reviewing advance reader copies (ARCs) of upcoming books. The convergence of 8th House Publishing's innovative literary creations and Edelweiss's cutting-edge platform is a pivotal moment that promises to enhance the reading experience for both reviewers and literary enthusiasts alike. This collaboration enables reviewers, bloggers, librarians, and other key influencers to gain unparalleled access to 8th House Publishing's pre-release titles, fueling the conversation around the most exciting forthcoming releases.

One of the most remarkable aspects of this collaboration is the commitment to accessibility. Reviewers are granted free Digital Review Copy (DRC) downloads, allowing them to immerse themselves in the pages of forthcoming masterpieces without any cost. This not only empowers reviewers to provide insightful and well-informed feedback but also cultivates a dynamic exchange of ideas between creators and the literary community.

"We're thrilled to join forces with Edelweiss to make our ARCs easily accessible to reviewers and enthusiasts," stated Christine Kalo, Chief Marketing Officer at 8th House Publishing. "This collaboration embodies our dedication to fostering a vibrant literary ecosystem, where voices are heard, stories are shared, and creativity knows no bounds."

Edelweiss users can now seamlessly explore 8th House Publishing's diverse range of genres, from thought-provoking fiction to captivating non-fiction and everything in between. By offering a user-friendly interface and a vast collection of upcoming titles, Edelweiss empowers reviewers to discover hidden gems, amplify deserving voices, and contribute to the literary landscape.

To celebrate this partnership and showcase the wealth of upcoming titles, 8th House Publishing invites all members of the literary community to visit their Edelweiss profile and dive into a world of literary wonders.

For media inquiries, please contact:

Christine Kalo, Chief Marketing Officer, 8th House Publishing; Email: This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it.; Phone: 1-888-936-3668

About 8th House Publishing: 8th House Publishing is a dynamic and forward-thinking publishing house committed to nurturing emerging voices and presenting captivating stories to the world. With a diverse array of genres and a dedication to innovation, 8th House Publishing continues to redefine the boundaries of literary excellence.

About Edelweiss: Edelweiss is a premier online platform that connects publishers, reviewers, bloggers, librarians, and other influencers in the literary world. It offers a comprehensive and user-friendly interface for discovering, requesting, and reviewing advance reader copies (ARCs) of upcoming books, fostering a dynamic exchange of ideas and amplifying exceptional voices.

Follow 8th House Publishing on:

Website: www.8thhousepublishing.com Twitter: @8thHouseBooks Instagram: @8thHousePublishing Facebook: 8thHousePublishing

Announcing "WOMEN IN JAZZ - Special Edition" 

Dive into the captivating world of jazz with "Women in Jazz" by Sammy Stein, a groundbreaking book that shines a spotlight on the incredible contributions of women in this beloved genre. This special edition book containing both "Women in Jazz: The Women, the Legends & their Fight" and "In Their Own Words" by Sammy Stein in one hardcover volume, takes readers on an inspiring journey through the lives and stories of female agents, arrangers, composers, musicians, PR professionals, radio hosts, record label managers, singers, writers, and more.

In "Women in Jazz," Stein expertly charts the paths of these remarkable women, celebrating their presence, amplifying their voices, and marveling at their unparalleled talent. The book provides an intimate glimpse into their experiences, sharing their unique perspectives on jazz and their visions for the future of the genre. From seasoned performers who share wisdom gained through years of dedication to emerging artists reflecting on the evolving landscape of jazz, each chapter offers a profound exploration of their journey.

Through a collection of interviews and firsthand accounts, "Women in Jazz" bears witness to the unwavering dedication, resilience, and passion these women have brought to their craft. It captures the generosity and positivity with which they have overcome challenges, offering a testament to their unwavering commitment to their artistry. Stein's book serves as a testament to the indomitable spirit of these trailblazers, inspiring readers with their stories of triumph.

Within the pages of "Women in Jazz," readers will gain an appreciation for the profound impact these women have had on the jazz landscape. Their creativity, innovation, and sheer talent have shaped the genre and paved the way for future generations of musicians. This book serves as a tribute to their invaluable contributions, ensuring that their stories and voices are recognized and celebrated.

Released to critical acclaim, "Women in Jazz" has garnered praise for its comprehensive and insightful portrayal of the women who have left an indelible mark on the jazz scene. Stein's meticulous research and engaging storytelling bring to life the vibrant tapestry of jazz history and the extraordinary women who have shaped it.

Whether you're a passionate jazz aficionado, a music lover, or someone intrigued by the power of women's voices, "Women in Jazz" is a must-read. It invites you to embark on an enriching journey through the lives and experiences of these remarkable musicians, leaving you with a deeper appreciation for their immense talent and the barriers they have overcome.

Pick up a copy of "Women in Jazz" today and join the celebration of these extraordinary women who have transformed jazz and continue to inspire future generations.

ORDER IT TODAY... (Limited to 500 copies)

On "Women in Jazz":

"It's all here, beautifully written, eloquently argued, clear-eyed in its intentions and open in its invitation " Jane Cornwell, Jazzwise Magazine
"All That’s Jazz author Sammy Stein’s new book Women in Jazz: The Women, the Legends & Their Fight uses a wide-angle lens to look at how women in a range of different roles have made a life in—and helped shape—jazz. Instead of only focusing on well-known performers, Stein interviewed agents, arrangers, composers, public relations professionals, media members, and more. Her subjects bridge generations (and international boundaries) in an effort to honor the past, assess the present, and point to the future." Emile Manasche, Jazz Times

"The reader is left in no doubt of Sammy’s knowledge and authority on the subject, yet she manages to tackle a challenging topic in a direct, passionate and sincere, yet easily digestible way. The sheer volume and status of the people who have given up their time to help Sammy, both women and men, is testament to the respect Sammy has earned across the industry and the trust people have in her to relay their stories faithfully." —Darren Harper, Jazz Matters

“A fascinating insight into the lives of contemporary jazz women and one that will be read with great interest by jazz enthusiasts of any gender. It really is an intelligent, insightful and consistently entertaining read, a book that either be read from cover to cover or dipped into at random. Even the most casual perusal of the work is guaranteed to unearth a nugget that will intrigue, inform and entertain". —Ian Mann, Jazzmann reviews

“One eye-opening narrative leads to a fascinating historical photo that leads to priceless quotes and offbeat reference sources, keeping the reader hungry for the next surprise Stein will veer off to". —Debbie Burke, jazz critic.

“In her own inimitable way, Sammy Stein has given us a work that will be read, pored over and discussed for quite some time." —Nick Lea, Jazzviews
'What an incredible book ' Phace magazine

Rolli writes... a humorous essay in the latest issue of Plenitude

In an age dominated by digital connections, the search for genuine friendship can be a challenging endeavor. 8th House author Rolli explores the experiences of a writer who embarks on a journey to find companionship through online classified ads. Via a humorous essay, "The Lonely Life: A Quest for Friendship in the Digital Age." Rolli shares his encounters and misadventures with individuals who respond to his ad seeking interesting conversations.

Initially excited by the prospect of meaningful connections, Rolli quickly realizes that the online realm can be a breeding ground for inappropriate advances and solicitations. His inbox is bombarded with messages that are far from what he had anticipated. Undeterred, Rolli refines his ad to emphasize the platonic nature of the conversations he seeks.

As the writer concludes his article, he reflects on his experiences and expresses gratitude for finding a true friend. While he may have encountered a series of unusual and unsavory characters along the way, Rolli remains open to the possibility of finding true friendship amidst the noise of the digital world.

Read the full essay.

COMING SOON: "Sithana Burning" by Somsy Camvan

In a remote village of Laos, rival gangs plot to seize control of the land and exploit its resources for their own gain. But when their plans are threatened by Sithana's appearance, a deadly chain of events is set in motion that will test the limits of loyalty, courage, and love. As tensions rise and alliances shift, a web of corruption and deceit is revealed, and the villagers must band together to fight for their way of life. 

Sithana Burning is a gripping tale of love, loyalty, and justice, featuring vividly drawn characters and a richly evocative setting. When Sithana returns to Laos from Canada to bury his family and avenge their deaths, he finds himself drawn to Viengvilay, a woman who understands his pain and shares his desire for justice. Meanwhile, in the bustling city of Luang Prabang, Laos, Touy Silavong her fiancé is a rising star in the world of organized crime. With a combination of cunning and ruthlessness, he's built an empire that extends far beyond the city limits. As Sithana and Viengvilay navigate the dangerous terrain of a corrupt society, they are forced to confront their deepest fears and make choices that will determine their fate. With vivid descriptions of Laos and its culture, Sithana Burning is a powerful story of resilience, love, and the human spirit's unyielding will to survive.

COMING SOON!

196 pages | 5.5" x 8.25" | ISBN 978-1-926716-74-9

Neurodiverse Writing with Rathwell & Rhenisch

As the world becomes more aware of the spectrum of human neurodiversity, many are looking to understand and appreciate the unique perspectives that neurodiverse individuals bring to various fields. One such field is writing, and in the article "Neurodiverse Writing with Rathwell & Rhenisch," readers can gain insights into the creative process of two neurodiverse writers and the innovative ways in which they approach their craft.

The article (which you can read here) is centered on the book "Don't Expect the Sun to Shine - A Wake for Robin Blaser," which pays tribute to the influential Canadian poet and scholar Robin Blaser. Rathwell and Rhenisch were both contributors to the book, and in the article, they delve into their own experiences with neurodiversity and how it shapes their writing.

Rathwell, who describes his writing process as being nonlinear and associative, embraces his unique way of thinking allowing it to inform his creative work, often discovering unexpected connections and insights in the process. Rhenisch, similarly uses his neurodivergent perspective to inform his writing, to see patterns and relationships in language that others might miss.

Reading about these writers' experiences can not only deepen our understanding of neurodiversity but also inspire us to appreciate the beauty and power of different ways of thinking. And, of course, for those interested in poetry and literature, "Don't Expect the Sun to Shine - A Wake for Robin Blaser" is a must-read.

https://apocalyze.net/2023/03/17/neurodiverse-writing-with-rathwell-rhenisch/

Don't Expect the Sun to Shine - Videos Part II, III & IV are now out!

Videos I through IV are now available. Burn your popcorn as you watch:

Don't Expect the Sun to Shine - Part I: Canadiana

Don't Expect the Sun to Shine - Part II: Creativity vs. Alignment 

Don't Expect the Sun to Shine - Part III: Stalin & Angels

Don't Expect the Sun to Shine - Part IV: Creativity (Continued...)

Don't Expect the Sun to Shine - Part V: Poets & Wars (Coming Soon)

Check out the video series here. One video to be released each week until the April launch... Pre-Order the book today!

"Don't Expect the Sun to Shine" is a record of the wake of the American-Canadian poet Robin Blaser, who taught a generation of Canadian poets American techniques derived from the WWI experience, techniques of blowing apart meaning, deriving meaning from the arrangement of text on the page, and using pages as cloud chamber bowls. Anything on them derived meaning only from their relationship in space to the other objects in that space. 

These were called poems, but they were really scripts to tease the cognitive patterns of biological readers. Unlike book-based poetry, they did not interact with the technological constraints of books but with the neurological constraints of humans. Their purpose was to turn space into time. Their purpose was to stop death. Every poem was a wake.

In Don’t Expect the Sun to Shine, Rathwell and Rhenisch turn time back into space.

We want readers to wander around wherever they like. We don’t control their hike. Their biological history does that. We are just hosting a party, so they can meet. — Harold Rhenisch

Don’t Expect the Sun to Shine responds to three ongoing trends in the development of written language in the age of images: the treatment of words as images in art writing, the evolution of criticism as a form of creativity that fails its potential because it remains enslaved to the academy, and the contemporary world of narrative fiction, which sees fictional worlds as the greatest truths, enjoys being dominated by normative narratives, and treats characters as clothing taken on for public display. 

Novels have become self-help, identity racks in a mall that you page through to find the one that fits. Then you wear it. — Harold Rhenisch