What Other Folks Are Saying About Five Star Publications




The last few weeks have brought the delightful news that my good friend and client Nick Bazan, M.D.'s novel and film, UNA VIDA, are both moving forward at last. The novel-check out this great cover-will appear end of the year from Five Star Publications, with Linda Radke, the publisher, hugely excited about its potential and Leeza Gibbons' "Leeza's Place," dedicate to the families of Alzheimer's victims, exploring a cross-promotional tie in with Dr. Bazan, who heads LSU's Neuroscience Institute in New Orleans.




Ladies can always look to fellow women for great advice. In her book Girl Talk: Celebrities and other Extraordinary Women Share Their Secrets (Five Star Publications), Gigi Garner -- who's the daughter of actor James Garner -- compiles tips from women for women that can make life a whole lot easier.

The chick chat ranges from shopping and cleaning tricks, to friend and career advice from fierce females with knowledge in hostage negotiation, clowning, and fire-fighting.

She also got some tips from celebs like Jamie Lee Curtis and Naomi Judd, who reveals that her secret stain removal tool is rubbing alcohol. Garner says, "It's fun to share those things we know and help each other. If I know something cool or a better way to do something, I want to tell my friends about it."
FlashNews Daily Pop Culture Advance
July 31, 2008



A doctor's duty is to heal the sick and wounded, no matter who it is. "Diamonds of Death" follows physician Tom Slocum as he saves a close friend from the brink of death. But his act of heroism has consequences, as Tom finds himself engulfed in a Mafia war over diamonds. With only his skills as a doctor, he must evade the Mob and its deep roots within the city in order to survive. A gripping thriller, "Diamonds of Death" should be on every community library fiction shelf.

Diane C. Donovan
California Bookwatch
for Midwest Book Review



"...if you eagerly grabbed the newspaper to read the daily comics; think only of the Lone Ranger when you hear the William Tell Overture; remember the decades after World War II and hearing about USO tours; or are a comic book aficionado that knows no limits -- then this is a book for you and one that you'll enjoy reading."






2008 Carter G. Woodson Award Winner
The most distinguished social science book appropriate for young readers that increases understanding of ethnicity in the United States for Don't Throw Away Your Stick Till You Cross the River-The Journey of An Ordinary Man by Vincent Collin Beach, published by Five Star Publications, Inc. [more]


"Worthwhile things take time". This is something the dedicated folk at "Five Star" know and practice.
The fulfilling of Tom's desire to make known his experiences in a book telling of his USO / NCS travels was much like one of the trips themselves.
While there were no nose diving planes or potential snippers in the path , Linda Radke and her crew sweated out many delays. The journey took two and one half years, but now the fruits of their labors can be shared.
"The Misadventures of a Roving Cartoonist" has been part of my life with Tom since our union in 1996 . Now his dream is a reality and it is a joy to hold the book in my hands. Many thanks to all involved, past , present and future.

As ever,
'trish' Gill



2008 Glyph Winner
Best Cover Design-Children/Young Adult for The Student From Zombie Island: Conquering the Rumor Monster
Five Star Publications, Inc.



Photo by Thomas Boggan, Tribune


Thank you for coming to our school. Everyone enjoyed your reading of the book and are encouraged by your words of encouragement. We all look forward to the next two books.
Mrs. Cottrell and all Hohokam students (Scottsdale, AZ)



Grab this inspiring memoir and get ready to see the light at the end of the tunnel!
RIGHT ON! MAGAZINE



Thank you so much for your dynamic presentations at Liberty School yesterday. You provided living proof of the ripple effect of reading and writing! Thanks again!
Jeanie Reams
Liberty School



This is a brilliant concept!!!! I am going to tell my "step-son" Max about it. He is constantly making up (gory) stories! Congratulations on finding the young Steinbecks of the future.

Leah Abrahams



The teachers in my building are always looking for places to showcase their student's work. Your contest highlights the importance of creativity in writing and art. In this age of technology, it will be very exciting to be published on-line. Thank you in advance for this wonderful opportunity,
Libby Kahn
Library Media Specialist
Nesaquake Middle School
St. James N.Y.



Linda Radke spoke to aspiring authors January, 2008 at the DORA Lifelong Learning Class, Sun City West, AZ, on publishing their books. Here is what some of the participants had to say:

Linda's enthusiasm and presence speaks louder than her words. Knowledgeable & personable.
Thomas C. Lux, Orlando Park, IL


Your enthusiasm and quality of speaking and organizational sills are appreciated. Good passion & enthusiasm.
Beverly Crandall
Sun City West, AZ
Editor, journalist, Book Reviews, writer, staff writer California newspaper


This is a most helpful presentation. One of the most dynamic, best I've heard on publishing and promotion - and I've attended many conference seminars. Thanks for sharing your expertise.
Greta Manville
Sun City West, AZ



Where Does a Subsidy Publisher Fit In?


Photo by Thomas Boggan, Tribune


We have experienced tremendous success with Five Star Publications -- which is a partnership publisher, and I think the same as Gayle's "subsidy" publisher. I can't speak for all partnership publishers, because they all have their own contracts, rules, etc., but I can tell you that Five Star does reject a lot of manuscripts because they share in the expenses of going to press. Our book, The Student From Zombie Island, is returnable and distributed through Baker & Taylor and Ingram. And when we travel around doing book signings, I have found traditionally published authors drool over all that Five Star has done for us.

With Five Star's Gold and Silver plans, they work to get books carried by library distributors, help line up bookstore visits and school visits and even acts as a speaker's agent, which has given us substantial income. Five Star gives a larger royalty than a Traditional publisher, and if I sell the book myself I get an even bigger piece of the pie. Five Star authors can also participate with co-op tradeshows if they choose to. For a much smaller fee than purchasing your own booth at BEA, the OASIS show, or even the recent ASU Literacy event, etc., Five star authors can pool their resources with co-op agreements and participate in shows that Five Star employees run. The author can be there or not, depending on their schedules. They even did our website for us! I know this sounds like a commercial for Five Star, but really and truly we are just very happy customers. Our book came out last spring, and by the beginning of this year, we had already sold close to 1,500 copies -- and could have sold a lot more if we didn't have to turn down daytime events since my son is the author of the book, and he is still in school.

Don't get me wrong, we work very hard ourselves, also lining up author visits, etc. Partnership publishing only works when both partners work hard at making it work, but I'm very satisfied with my agreement with Five Star, and will not hesitate to do a second book with them. In the eyes of the bookstores, schools, libraries, we are "traditionally published," we just have negotiated a financial arrangement that is more beneficial to both the publisher and ourselves, which isn't really anything a bookstore, library or school should be concerned about, and appears not to care about from our vantage point.

Lynda Exley & Michael Moorehead
www.ZombieIslandBooks.com



Linda Radke spoke to aspiring authors January, 2008 at the Glendale Public Library on publishing their books. Here is what some of the participants had to say:

"I have attended several seminars on publishing. This one is my absolute favorite for many reasons. Linda is personable, has a wealth of knowledge to share, and is exceptionally patient."

"Linda, I really enjoyed the workshop you presented at last night, at the Glendale Foothills library. Your enthusiasm, wealth of knowledge, and charisma made for quite an educational and motivational evening."

"I was particularly interested in your recollections of some of the techniques you used to promote some of your past projects. In looking over your website, it's clear that you have an eye for ways to expand initial ideas into a whole host of divergent opportunities. Thanks for being willing to share your learnings!"


National Indie Excellence 2007 Book Awards The American Authors Association gives this book its highest book rating and the Founder's Recommendation! ...The author does a professional job of the writing and of putting this book all together. It is well worth buying and reading it. Readers will find it fascinating and emotionally riveting...[more]

American Authors Association Awards for 2007
for "World War II: A Legacy of Letters – One Soldier’s Journey"
Finalist for History in the National Indie Excellence 2007 Book Awards
... and Founder's Recommendation!



Dear Ms. Radke:
The Professional Writers of Prescott want to thank you for your wonderful presentation on October 24 entitled "When to Hire a Publicist". Your extensive knowledge of the subject and willingness to share your professional approach to book publication and marketing was greatly appreciated. During the networking discussion your answers to participant questions showed depth and consideration. I found your talk to the main group informative, entertaining and quite moving. Thank you for taking the time to come all the way to Prescott, to share your unique and inspiring approach to book publication and marketing with us.
Sincerely,
Mary Ann Kozel, Networking Chairman
Professional Writers of Prescott.



Dear Vincent and Annie:
Just wanted you both to know how much I enjoyed the show yesterday. Vincent's story needs to be distributed especially to our youth: it may help some of them overcome their own obstacles in life. To this end I have placed a permanent link to Vincent's website on my website. It is listed on the top line menu under Invitational.
The Adventure Continues
Nevyn
http://www.woodlandstar.net/



Dylan, The Tourette Syndrome Foundation of Canada was honoured to have you give the Opening Address at our National Conference recently.
Many of my colleagues questioned my wisdom in inviting someone so young to undertake such an important role. They soon saw what I did. It was a privilege to have you in attendance. We are certain that our members and their families will take you up on your challenge of spreading the message of awareness and tolerance.
Thank you for taking the time to speak with so many of the kids on an individual level and to personalize your book for them. You are truly an inspiration to many.
You should be very proud of your book Tic Talk: Living with Tourette Syndrome, A 9 year-old boy’s story in his own words. As you spoke in your presentation the book you wrote allows others with TS to know they are not alone and opens the hearts and minds of those that do not have Tourette Syndrome.
All of us at Tourette Syndrome Foundation of Canada wish you the very best in your future endeavours and know that you will continue to inspire many.
Rosie Wartecker
Executive Director
Tourette Syndrome Foundation of Canada



I am so proud of you! I feel I have been with you from the beginning and I know how hard you have worked for your clients. Most advisors tell potential authors that they have to go to New York for success. You have disproved that. I am honored to know you. Thank you so much for all you have done for Arizona authors. I wish you many more years of success!

Barbara Lacy
www.BarbaraLacy.com



Spirit Courage and Resolve "Dylan Peters' book, Tic Talk, both personalizes and promotes awareness of Tourette's Syndrome in a way that can be appreciated by even young children. It was a pleasure working with Dylan, his parents and Linda Radke of Five Star Publications in finding out more about their efforts to promote public understanding and tolerance for individual differences."

Derrick
Teacher-Librarian
Head of English and Library
Sir Wilfrid Laurier Secondary School
Orleans, Ontario



Spirit Courage and Resolve Linda Radke and her staff at Five Star Publications have not only helped increase sales of our books through their relentless publicity, they have also been responsible for us acquiring numerous speaking engagements and television and radio interviews. Their tireless efforts on behalf of their clients have resulted in our books being sold in every state and twelve different countries. Linda and her assistant, Sue DeFabis at Five Star have helped me understand the power of the internet which I have used to my advantage and have shown much success. Three cheers to Five Star of Chandler, Arizona.

Tom Lambke, Chandler, AZ author of
SPIRIT, COURAGE and RESOLVE ... a Special Olympics Athlete's Road to Gold
www.spiritcourageresolve.com
and with son, Bryan, co-authors of I JUST AM ... a Story of Down Syndrome Awareness and Tolerance
www.ijustam.org




I’m a member of a website that brings authors and speakers together with the media - www.AuthorsandExperts.com (A website run by Five Star Publications, Inc.) Through my listing, I received a call from a radio station in Providence, Rhode Island. Greg Norman, the founder of universal7radio.com, wanted to do a one-hour phone interview about my new autobiography, Don't Throw Away Your Stick Till You Cross the River.

As my voice is very soft, now in my eighth decade, I bought a new speaker phone, turned off every possible noise-maker in the house, and spent an entire hour on the phone. The interview was broadcast live and also on the internet.

The book is now featured as "Book of the Month" on their website and I've received an invitation to do another interview. Because Five Star has an innovative approach to marketing, this unexpected avenue opened up to me. My thanks to Linda Radke, President of Five Star Publications.

Vincent Beach
Chandler, Arizona
www.VincentBeach.com




July 28th, 2007
The Money Show:
Author and business woman Ricki Pagano joins Bill Moller to discuss her new book, For the Record - A Personal Facts and Document Organizer.


Dear Michael:
On behalf of the American Association of University Women (AAUW), I would like to thank you for participating in AAUW’s Expanding a Legacy of Leadership National Convention in Phoenix, Arizona.

We appreciate your willingness to conduct a book signing during the convention, for your book, The Student From Zombie Island: Conquering the Rumor Monster. As you know, the purpose of this year’s biennial event was to bring together over 1,200 women from around the nation to explore a wide range of issues affecting women and girls. Your participation as a Book Corner author contributed to the success of this mission.

Michael, the AAUW Book Corner is truly a unique highlight of the convention and you being in-person to not only share your ideas, but also personally sign your book, made the convention very special for our guests. Thank you for sharing your knowledge and expertise.

I wish you continued success, and look forward to collaborating with you again in the future.
Sincerely,
Jennifer Linh Steenberg
Development Associate





Thanks to Linda and her staff at Five Star Publications my three year project was finally launched – the result – a first class book and ‘A Legacy’ that will last for generations.
Clint Frederick
Author of Legacy of Letters: One Soldier's Journey
www.OneSoldiersJourney.com




11-year-old from Tempe sees manuscript in print


Photo by Thomas Boggan, Tribune
...Michael Moorehead seems to be taking his newfound fame in stride. He’s OK with having his photo taken at book signings. He relates well with reporters seeking interviews. He’s accommodating — as long as the requests don’t interfere with homework or Boy Scout meetings.

Michael, author of the recently released “The Student From Zombie Island: Conquering the Rumor Monsters” ($15.95; Five Star Publications), is only 11.

“He’s become a mini-celebrity here,” his former second-grade teacher Nancy Lujan says, since he’s been doing book-reading appearances at his alma mater, C.I. Waggoner Elementary School in Tempe.

Michael credits Lujan for inspiring him to write; in fact, the book was originally a present to her...
Julie Janovsky
Metro Phoenix's East Valley Tribune



Author thanks teacher who encouraged him

Published author Michael Moorehead is no stranger to rejection, long hours at a desk and years of writing draft after draft in hopes of creating a single piece that will fly off bookshelves.

He returned last month to his alma mater, C.I. Waggoner Elementary, to honor his inspiration, second-grade teacher Nancy Lujan. He presented her with an autographed copy of his book during a student assembly.

Afterward, the sixth-grader walked next door to Kyrene Middle School to resume classes.

Michael's The Student from Zombie Island: Conquering the Rumor Monster depicts an outrageous environment shaped by gossip, assumptions and rumors. The colorfully illustrated children's book is now available in bookstores and online at www.ZombieIslandBooks.com for $15.95...
Georgann Yara
Special for The Republic
May. 10, 2007 12:00 AM




... in an Associated Press article by Food Writer J.M. HIRSCH:

Small Bites
On the bookshelf: 'Cooking with Max'
Sun Journal, Sunday, May 13, 2007


Small Bites: Food news that's easy to swallow
ON THE BOOKSHELF: "Cooking with Max"
The Daily Chronical, May 09, 2007 - 12:00:04 pm CDT


On the bookshelf
...Max has the potential to be a great role model for children. He demonstrates not only that food and cooking can be fun, but also that boys, as much as girls, can and should get in on that fun...
Columbia Daily Tribune, May 9, 2007


Kid cookbook
It’s hard not to admire the sort of pluck involved in an 8-year-old boy publishing a cookbook. A vegetarian cookbook at that. And Max Nania, author of “Cooking with Max: 45 Fun and Kind of Messy Recipes Kids Can Make,” demonstrates plenty of pluck...
Saint Cloud Times, May 09, 2007 12:30AM


Kid-to-kid cookbook offers fun
It’s hard not to admire the sort of pluck involved in an 8-year-old boy publishing a cookbook. A vegetarian cookbook at that. And Max Nania, author of “Cooking with Max: 45 Fun and Kind of Messy Recipes Kids Can Make,” demonstrates plenty of pluck.
Tacoma News Tribune Wed, 02 May 2007 1:42 AM PDT


FOOD BITES
On The Bookshelf: "Cooking with Max" (Little Five Star, 2007, $14.95)
Montgomery Advertiser Wed, 02 May 2007 2:09 AM PDT


Cookshelf: "Cooking With Max"
It's hard not to admire the sort of pluck involved in a 8-year-old boy publishing a cookbook.
Denver Post Wed, 02 May 2007 0:28 AM PDT


Strawberry Shortcakes
Boy, 8, authors cookbook for kids.
The Scranton Times-Tribune Wed, 02 May 2007 1:12 AM PDT


Food news that's easy to swallow
It’s hard not to admire the sort of pluck involved in a 8-year-old boy publishing a cookbook. A vegetarian cookbook at that. And Max Nania, author of “Cooking with Max: 45 Fun and Kind of Messy Recipes Kids Can Make,” demonstrates plenty of pluck.
San Mateo Daily Journal


Small Bites: Pint-sized chef, heaping berry dessert
ON THE BOOKSHELF: "Cooking with Max" (Little Five Star, 2007, $14.95)
The North Andover Eagle-Tribune


Food briefs
On the bookshelf.
The Roanoak Times


This book is a real success for Author Shari Cohen, Cantor Marcelo Gindlin, and Illustrator Nadia Komorova.

Little Five Star, a division of Five Star Publications, made a good choice in deciding to publish this universally appealing and culturally enlightening children’s book. With so much positive feedback, everyone is sure to love Alfie's Bark Mitzvah
Jessica Rotter
Staff Writer - The Graphic
Pepperdine University




A certain to be popular addition to any community library American Popular Culture collection, "Gunsmoke: An American Institution" is a 'must read...

"In "Gunsmoke: An American Institution", author Ben Costello has provided the legions of fans for America's most popular and long-running television western series with an exhaustive compendium showcasing and celebrating all twenty seasons (comprising a total of 635 episodes) of Matt Dillion and his many friends and foes. Profusely illustrated with literally hundreds of photos about what went on both in front and in back of the cameras, "Gunsmoke" covers the major cast members, as well as the producers, writers and directors, and features an especially insightful interviews with Dennis Weaver, Buck Taylor, and Burt Reynolds. There are even sections featuring Dean Martin Celebrity Roast Highlights; reminisces of distinctive guest stars; Gunsmoke memorabilia, the post-television series Gunsmoke films, and so very much more. A certain to be popular addition to any community library American Popular Culture collection, "Gunsmoke: An American Institution" is a 'must read' for anyone who grew up with Matt Dillion, Miss Kitty, Doc, Chester, Festus, and all the other denizens of Dodge City and the Old West."
The Midwest Book Review
MBR BOOKWATCH, April 2007




I was never very fond of Shakespeare, with his archaic language and complicated plots that seemed to go on forever. And, while I can still recite parts of Lady MacBeth's soliloquy, compliments of a drama class many (many) years ago, I wouldn't list the great author's works among my favorites to read. Cass Foster has set about to change that with his new series The Sixty-Minute Shakespeare While his versions of the great classics are unchanged in their Old English language and intricate plots, he has successfully shortened the plays to foster accessibility for readers such as myself.

The Sixty-Minute Shakespeare series is written with an eye toward the theater. Whether used for scene work in a drama class or as a fully staged production, each play contains staging tips for scenery and pacing. For the classroom teacher or even the avid learner, the books also include images and themes from Shakespeare's works, related websites, and a liberal sprinkling of footnotes throughout each play to explain and/or define the archaic terminology.

"Much Ado About Nothing," one of several plays in the series, follows Cass' unique format. The plot, while shortened to an hour runtime (if performed) still tells the story of Claudio, Hero and Don John. When Don John tricks Claudio into believing that his love, Hero, has been unfaithful, he leaves her. Hero's father, upon learning the truth, manipulates Claudio into reuniting with his beloved. Woven into this is the compelling love story between Beatrice and Benedick, tricked by friends into loving each other, only to realize that their feelings for one another were there from the start.

The Sixty-Minute Shakespeare series is the perfect compromise for readers wishing to enjoy the brilliance of a true master without spending hours with each play. It is also ideal for the teacher desiring to introduce his/her students to the same experience within the limited time frame of a classroom. On several levels, The Sixty-Minute Shakespeare "Much Ado About Nothing" is a GREAT READ.
Marcia Berneger
Muse Book Reviewer



You Are What You Read
...the sustenance of words: Cooking with Max


Not many chefs can say that four years is a long time to spend in their profession, but for Max Nania that's a little more than half his life. This budding seven year old has grown up in the kitchen and has acquired a special talent when it comes to creating kid-friendly treats and recipes that will be featured in his new book, Cooking With Max, scheduled to release this April/May.

Cooking with Max: 45 Really Fun and Kind of Messy Recipes Kids Can Make is a collection of Max’s favorite recipes from the years he has spent learning to cook and create with his mom, Sienna, who encourages his creativity as long as he cleans up. From Inside-Out Ice Cream Sandwiches to Disappearing Veggies, this cookbook offers an array of specialties so creative and fun that they could only come from a child’s imagination.
jill epstein
publisher
where to eat and drink magazine
april issue
wheretoeatboston.com



"...the book’s characters are dogs (as opposed to people giving their pet a bar mitzvah), and it is adorable. The beautiful, luminous illustrations capture the priceless expressions on the dogs’ faces as well as the appearances of various breeds. The rhyme is cute, without being sappy, and the emphasis is on family and mitzvot. This book would make a great bar mitzvah present, but it is highly recommended for three to eight-year-old children."
Kathe Pinchuck
Bloomfield Public Library
Feb/March 2007 issue of the AJL Newsletter





"Thought I'd share Max's reaction with you when he saw his first box of books..."
Sienna Nania
Mother of author Max Nania








 
In Tic Talk Living with Tourette Syndrome, 9 year-old Dylan Peters describes his life with TS. The charmng books offers sage advice in the words of a child, illustrated by Dylan's friend, Zachary Wendland and painted by Kris Taft Miller. Both children and parents will enjoy Dylan's descriptions of getting a CAT scan, coping with anger and learning to make lemonade when life hands you a lemon. The book has an introduction written by Jim Eisenreich and a teacher strategies section by Brad Cohen. Little Five Star, www.tourettesyndromebook.com
tourette syndrome, Inc. newsletter
Spring 2007 - Volume 34 - Number 4



It's been awhile since I checked in with your website and the Gunsmoke An American Institution website and I was just going to let you know I have been told by my family in Delaware that our mom (she just turned 84 on 03/09/2007) has been referencing her book more and more. Then when I come to the website I see where there are some congratulations that are in order. "Best Books 2006" winner for Ben Costello's book and Alex Cord's book was recognized and then you received a well deserved award. I'm sorry I didn't find out sooner, however, I am not surprised at all because you all deserve the recognition you receive plus more! Please know as we have mentioned before you have made a family very grateful by giving our mom such pleasure referencing Ben's book. She is a faithful Gunsmoke viewer and keeps her memory sharp by using the book to verify her knowledge of each episode. We wish you all continued success and satisfaction knowing how much joy you are bringing to many people's lives.
Take care.
Pat Ward



Dear Five-Star Publications:
Thanks so much for the “Sixty Minute Shakespeare” Series news release.
I discovered the scripts about 5 years ago. As our Education Outreach department at Colorado Shakespeare Festival is dedicated to enlightening teachers and students (and the community at large) about Shakespeare’s works—using a “hands-on” philosophy—I have found the Five Star Shakespeare Collection an incredible resource. Whenever teachers are looking for a truncated script, or help with “opening up Shakespeare” to their students, I refer them to you... I have also listed the web page for your series on our website at: www.coloradoshakes.org/education/resources.cfm#script.
Thanks to you and Cass Foster and Lynn G. Johnson for these terrific tools!

Melinda J. Scott, Education Director
www.coloradoshakes.org/education



"In fact, the unselfconscious memoir [Don't Throw Away Your Stick Till You Cross The River by Vincent Collin Beach, published by Five Star Publications, Inc.] is a wonderful mix of the ordinary and extraordinary, the familiar and the strange. That’s what makes it something else altogether: oddly compelling."

Andrew Junker
The Catholic Sun, March 1, 2007




"Recommended for use with fourth-grade and up (though it can be used with younger students…While the authors recommend using this resource in conjunction with Five Star Publications' Sixty Minute Shakespeare series, the suggestions may also be used in any program designed to introduce Shakespeare to students ranging in age from elementary to high school, or a mixture of ages."

"The tone of the book is enthusiastic and encouraging, the suggestions are realistic, and the activities are doable. Shakespeare: To Teach or Not to Teach is an excellent resource for any teacher setting out on the grand adventure of bringing Shakespeare's timeless plays to life."

Eclectic Home School Online


21 years later, Five Star still helps writers

Ever dreamed of writing a bestseller? Many of us have.

Lucky for us, people like Linda Radke, president of Chandler-based Five Star Publications, is in the business of helping people make their writing dreams come true. Radke, named Book Marketer of the Year for 2006 by Book Publicists of Southern California, recently celebrated her 21st year marketing and publishing books. Five Star Publications offers traditional publishing, partnership publishing and self publishing.

Susanne Brent
Special for the Arizona Business Gazette
Feb. 1, 2007 12:00 AM



January 22, 2007

Don't Throw Away Your Stick till You Cross the River (Mar., $14.95) by Vincent Collin Beach with Anni Beach considers the life of an ordinary Jamaican in segregated America.
Publishers Weekly Staff
Spring 2007 Trade Paperbacks:
Biography & Memoir



January, 2007

This book is a wonderful read and nearly impossible to put down. You both have done a stellar job at presenting this far from ordinary—in fact very special—story in a way that is so accessible, so readable and so enjoyable. I love the cover, and the production is so very good also...well put together, and it looks like this publishing house does a lot to support its authors.

Nancy Ross
Professional Editor, Photographer,
Writer and Musician



January, 2007

"Our members appreciated Linda Radke’s talk about the values of hiring a publicist. She gave us good advice and realistic options. She is knowledgeable, cordial and approachable."

Toby Fesler Heathcotte, President of Arizona Authors Association
www.azauthors.com
www.tobyheathcotte.com



January, 2007

"You need not be a professional writer to enjoy the pleasing style in Linda Radke’s presentation. When it comes to the ins and outs of publishing, publicity, and marketing, this lady helps one make sense of it all. Five Star Publications, Inc. is her baby and it certainly shows. What she has to offer can be invaluable to those seeking guidance, and she presents it in such a comfortable, connecting, and humorous way."

Jim Green, Author of Young Adult Fiction
www.wings-press.com/



Tuesday, January 16th, 2007

Hi Linda. We met briefly last night at the Arizona Authors Association meeting, and I just wanted to say thanks again for taking the time out to talk with us. I just recently moved out to Arizona, so that was my first meeting and I thought the information you provided was very helpful. I'm just starting out on the path of self-publishing and beginning to learn about all of the time and effort that is truly involved in marketing and publicizing a book. The tips you gave last night will definitely come in handy along the way (I also purchased a copy of one of the books on your website - economic self-publishing). I think your excitement and positive attitude were contagious for almost everyone in the room!

Thanks again,
Amey Libman
www.ameylibman.com


Linda Radke is available to talk your group or do workshops. Please email or call 866-471-0777 for more information.


This is letter is a testimonial to why I have been a publisher for the past 21 years. ~Linda Radke

"Dear Paul ...I have read your amazing book as part of my research as a Jewish mystical scholar! What a profound and necessary book! All this unfolding against a backdrop of Iran staging a conference (that included David Duke) to determine if the Shoah really occurred! Obviously they haven't read Leo Fettman's story!

...Thanks for writing a great and important book - In the process of writing the book with Cantor Fettman, you fulfilled the most important aspects of Jewish mysticism! In Kabbalah we call your work with Cantor Fettman a great Mitzvah (fulfilling a Biblical commandment), and act of g'milut chasadim (loving kindness), tzedakkah (charity) and it could even be considered, in part, a process of Bikkur Cholim (meeting with others in order that they should heal faster). I am very inspired by your work and want to let you know that reading your book made a lasting positive impact on my life...Shalom, Gabriella"



October, 2006

School Library Journal
"... This engaging and helpful book [ I Just Am written by Bryan and Tom Lambke, published by Five Star Publications] updates older titles that might describe people as "suffering from" or being "afflicted with" mental retardation. Weed those and replace them with this one."

Linda Beck
Indian Valley Public Library
Telford, PA



October 5, 2006

"...[One Soldier's Journey, produced by Five Star Publications] is a moving reading experience and one that will explore many parts of your own heart and soul.
Frederick does a masterful and skillful job of placing the letters into the flow of the book along with recaps of events and comments. The end deals with the death notices and the funeral of his father. It all works to paint this portrait of the real man his father was. This son truly honors his father's history and delivers a fine tribute to him."

William H. Mcdonald Jr.
President of The Military Writer's Society of America
Excerpted from a five star review on Amazon.com



August 2006

...Thank you as well to Linda Radke, who co-presented the retreat with me.

...I feel Linda brings a great amount of enthusiasm and heart, as well as a very unique perspective with the information she has to offer to the retreat. Not only does she have a tremendous amount of experience in book publicity, but she publishes books as well, a unique twist of perspective and knowledge that is both hard to find and replicate.

Tom Bird
Tom Bird's Writer's Roundtable



May, 2006

Good Morning Linda,

The cover, the endorsement, and the About the Author pages are outstanding. You and your group have done an absolutely outstanding job for me. I am absolutely thrilled. I will let you know how we do.

Thank you all so very, very much. This has been an absolutely delightful experience. Have a super summer. I will be in touch.

Thanks so much again,
Sue (Peoples)



January 2, 2006

Hello to all at Five Star,
If you remember back to some time ago you edited my novel, A Horse to Remember. I am e-mailing your company once again to thank you for all the hard work you put into my book. As of earlier this week I was accepted into Raven Publishing, Inc., to publish my novel. Ironically, that very same day another company accepted it as well. After some tough decisions I chose to sign with Raven. I spent all summer under a literary agency and when nothing happened with the progression of my book I decided to take finding a publisher into my own hands! I would just like to thank you once again to show you that your hard, dedicated work towards my book really paid off. It would have been nothing with out your company's assistance!


Sincerely,
Juliana Hutchings



June 20, 2005

In search of a suitable abridged version of Shakespeare's Midsummer Night's Dream I finally found out about Five Star Publications. The play, adapted by Cass Foster, leaves the Shakespearian language unchanged; and makes students acquainted with Shakespeare and the age that made him. The important point about it was that it really only took about an hour to perform, and so kept the part of each student in acceptable length. We had a lot of fun with Shakespeare, thanks to the helpful ready-made version in the sixty minute edition. Our audience, mainly parents and friends of our school, were not only delighted by the opportunity to enjoy Shakespeare and the students' performance but also to spend an evening without worrying about time. We are looking forward to the Shakespeare play, which will certainly be based on the sixty minute edition.

Freie Waldorfschule,
Ravensburg, Germany



June 6, 2005

In search of a suitable Shakespeare play for class 10, I finally found my way to Five Star Publications and the Sixty Minute Shakespeare by Cass Foster.
Not only that students could experience - and enjoy - the richness of Shakespeare's language and the age that made him, but also that we were able to perform the play in exactly 60 minutes, was really amazing. Mr Foster's abridged version of the Midsummer Night's Dream or any other Shakespeare play is an ideal means for school performances.

With thanks,
Elke Keller,
Germany




May 10, 2005

"If bein a star is special - 5 ain't enuff fer this team"

Marty Thompson
Author of Flying For Peanuts: The ABCs of Southwest Airlines

www.flyingforpeanuts.com


April 21, 2005

I want to commend you on an excellent product and fabulous service. I taught Much Ado About Nothing in the seventh for three years. The first year, I used the full text. This was not a very successful endeavor. The students couldn\'t delve very deeply into the play with the limited amount of school time we had. The next two years, I used the 60 Minute Shakespeare text. It was wonderful. I found it to be much more accessible than the full text, and because of this, my students were able to thoroughly study and enjoy the play. I plan to use it this year to teach Much Ado About Nothing to a group of homeschooling students that range from seventh to tenth grade. This is really the only way to teach a full Shakespearean play in the time allowed in a school year. Thank you again for not only producing a great product but for having excellent customer service as well!

Alyshia Jensen


February 8, 2005

Leadership Unbound Last year Larry Corbett and I went through an extensive process to select a publisher for our book. We talked with fifteen and selected Five Star for many reasons.

First, Linda's personal attention to detail and introduction plan.

Second, her efforts to ensure a high quality edition and a very clear message to potential readers.

Third, Linda's personality of "can do" attitude and great customer satisfaction.

Fourth, her most cost-effective printing and editing effort.

Five months later we are delighted with our choice. Linda continues to meet or exceed all of our expectations. I am eager to enjoy the results in 2005 of our partnership with an outstanding person and publisher.

My best regards,
Jerre Stead
Former Chairman and CEO
Ingram Micro


Spirit Courage and Resolve January 31, 2005

" I highly recommend Five Star Publications. We could not have accomplished our dream without your dedication, generosity and focus. The knowledge, experience, expertise, energy and dedication that Linda Radke and her staff provided cannot be surpassed."

The Lambkes
Karen, Tom, Shauna and Bryan

www.spiritcourageandresolve.com


December 31, 2004

To Whom It May Concern:

Several years ago, The Metanoia Group of Saint Mary's University of Minnesota published several books, generally in the area of ethics and business. We encountered a major challenge in the marketing, distribution and order fulfillment phases of the business. We knew very little about the book business, and sought expert advice.

I found Linda Radke and Five Star Publications. In our first conversation, I described our products, and especially our most recent publication using parables to illustrate principles of business ethics, and asked what her company could do for us. She asked for a copy of the book and, several days later, offered us an agreement under which Five Star Publications would market the book directly through vehicles open to it and would seek reviews in publications that would lead to purchase by libraries. Linda also agreed to fill orders for us. We accepted her proposal.

I was very pleased with our arrangement. Within a few weeks, we were beginning to receive orders from flyers and other announcements released by Five Star Publications. The journal reviews took longer, of course, but when they began, it would seem that they would never stop. And, almost without exception, they were very favorable evaluations of the book. Orders from libraries began immediately, and continued for more than a year. We also received a number of individual orders as a result of people browsing the book in the library and wanting their own copy.

Linda and Five Star Publications did everything they promised, on time, and with the kind of class that brought even more positive attention to our books. Our project turned into a major success, and it would not have been anywhere approaching successful without the expertise and the work of Linda and her staff at Five Star Publications.

I highly recommend the company for any project that fits their business mission statement. You may be assured that Five Star Publications will do an outstanding job.

Sincerely,
Dr. Justin Green
Former Vice-President
The Metanoia Group
Saint Mary's University of Minnesota


Quality Life May 31, 2004

"I have been thrilled with the work Five Star Publications has done for me. From every aspect of their specializations, from the production of my latest book, to the professionalism of all the staff at Five Star and most of all, the national publicity that they have acquired and continue to acquire for me and my book. Linda Radke is not only very knowledgeable, but she is also very professional and easy to work with. I will continue to use Five Star Publications for all of my future publicity, marketing and production needs and I would never consider going elsewhere. Five Star Publications absolutely gets five stars in every job that they have taken on for me."

Robyn Rogers
Heartsome Publishing


January 11, 2004

"Linda, It has been a real pleasure working with you and your team in making my book, Soar like an Eagle a reality. As a first time author, I appreciate the fine and sincere recommendations you provided me. Further, all of the promises you made were surprisingly delivered way before the expected time. Now I will be able to publish my book with confidence. I look foward to working with you on my next book."

Ardene A. Bachoo
Bachoo Speaker Services Inc.


November 19, 2003

"As a first-time author, I needed nuts and bolts advice from an experienced consultant on whether to self-publish. Linda provided the insights I was looking for, plus many very helpful ideas on book design, distribution, printing and publicity. My day job is in financial consulting and it occupies all my time. Thus, I needed someone who really knew the publishing business and could get me up to speed on the critical points as quickly as possible. Linda did that. I would recommend her services to anyone thinking about the question of self-publishing vs. traditional publishing."

Mike Churchill



February 4, 2003

Just wanted to let you know that I received the media package, and was blown away by the quality of the books your company produced. Especially "My Life as a Gay Man in a Straight Woman's Body". I sat down with it, meaning to only read a few pages to check the layout, and ended up reading it cover to cover over the next few days! Wonderfully written, edited, and set up, too.

I've mentioned Five Star Publications to several clients, but want you to know that I'll continue to do so to any new clients who ask me about production or promotion of their book. I wish your company continued success!

Arlene Robinson
BettyBoopWrites


October 23, 2002

Ms Linda Radke
Five Star Publications
P.O. Box 6698
Chandler, Arizona 85246-6698


Dear Linda:

"I want to express my delight and appreciation to you for the excellent job you and your team did for me in publishing my book "A Full Life: The Letters of Frank J. Johnson." The work was completed well ahead of schedule, and in a thoroughly professional manner. It was a pleasure working with you at all levels of the publication process.

I would be more than happy to recommend your company to anyone who might be interested."

Sincerely yours,
Frank J. Johnson



September 30, 2002

Quality Life "As a small publisher with a minimum of experience, I was delighted to come across Five Star Publications. They helped us with campaigns for four books and an intergenerational game. Linda Radke and her staff are enthusiastic, professional and very enjoyable to work with. They produce dynamic materials, advise and then let the publisher make the final decisions. I especially appreciated having an attractive website developed for each product. The websites included online press kits to which the media could have instant access. I was impressed by how many contacts they established with the media. It resulted in impressive reviews, interviews and web placements. I can highly recommend Five Star as a high quality PR service!"

Leah Abrahams
QualityLife Resources



August 8, 2002

Morgan the Dog "Working with Five Star Publications is a delight. Linda and her team are creative, highly motivated and have a genuine desire for the books they represent to succeed on all levels. We at Morgan House Publishing are extremely pleased with the progress achieved to date. We have had terrific reviews and Linda is always thinking three steps ahead. The creative staff - art, graphics, design and copy are always top notch. I would recommend them to anyone interested in achieving great results without spending excessively. Top notch in my book! Pun intended!"

Most sincerely,
Janet Friesen
President
Morgan House Publishing
www.fivestarpublications.com/books/morgan
www.morganthedog.com



August 7, 2002

"Being a first time published author I had many questions and concerns about all the aspects of publishing from finances, to cover art, to circulation. Publishing a book is like giving birth and Linda Radke and her staff held my hand through the entire ordeal. Ms. Radke is gentle yet strong and is someone you would wish to have on your side pulling for you and your work. Her beliefs are wholehearted, and honesty is her mainstay. Even though our 'contract' may have expired, she continues to work sending writing leads and keeping her eyes and ears open for various venues that may be attuned to my book and my personality.

I continue to be amazed at all the places my book can be found, thanks to Five Star's publicity and distribution services. I've even seen it available overseas!

I have been working with Linda Radke and her staff at Five Star Publications since November of 2000, and when I get ready to have my second work published, I have no need to search elsewhere. I will return home to Five Star Publications."

Carol Sherman-Jones
Author-My Life as a Gay Man in a Straight Woman's Body
www.fivestarpublications.com/books/mylife



October 19, 2001

"In the spring of 1999 we contacted Linda Radke of Five Star Publications, Inc. to assist us with the production of our business book "Getting Your Shift Together: Making Sense of Organizational Culture and Change". Linda and her staff guided us through each step of the publishing process including:

Getting Your Shift Together Title development
Market research
Securing an ISBN
Editing
Design and production of the final product
Marketing and publicity after the book was published

Five Star garnered print publicity, radio and TV interviews and Internet coverage. In fact, Linda continues to send us leads and generate publicity two years later!

We highly recommend Five Star Publications for their production and marketing services. Their attention to detail and highly professional staff made our idea come to life."

Lizz Pellet, CEO
Co-author
PJ Bouchard, President
Co-author
http://www.fivestarpublications.com/books/shift



July 11, 2001

"In the fall of 2000, I contacted Linda Radke, President of Five Star Publications to consider producing "Passover Cookery: In the Kitchen with Joan Kekst".

The time frame was exceedingly short; all the elements of producing the book, final assemblage of introduction, recipes, proofreading, graphics, photography, cover design and index, were yet to be accomplished, not to mention the time frame for printing and distribution was crucial.

Each of these elements was achieved with joint decisions made and implemented like creating a fine tuned Swiss watch.

By the time the book was published, I contracted with Five Star Publication to do the marketing for "Passover Cookery". As the book arrived on the market, excellent marketing materials including Webb site, media contact and press releases were widely distributed. The initial sales could never have been achieved without the diligence of Linda Radke and her staff.

Everyone at Five Star Publications participated thoroughly and contributed the success of "Passover Cookery". Although the book is seasonal, Five Star continues to offer suggestions for distribution ideas and other contacts.

I cannot emphasize strongly enough how dedicated everyone became to the entire project nor can my recommendations express the camaraderie and delight they all took in each step of its success. I look forward to working with the same team again in the future."

Joan Kekst, Author
Passover Cookery, In the kitchen with Joan Kekst



July 11, 2001

"We Met on the Internet

The beginning of a beautiful, romance? No. How about the beginning of a wonderful and rewarding Author/Book packager relationship? Yep...I met my book packager over the web. Sounds like the making of a good ole fashioned country western song.

A little over a year ago I was the enthusiastic and totally naive author who wanted to self-publish her books. I didn’t have a clue and to make matters worse I was living in Venezuela and I wanted to publish the books back home in the US.

Enter the Internet. I got on-line and started surfing. I needed to find an editor, someone to typecast, a cover designer, a printer and of course an artist to do the cover. I wanted to bring together a team of people who were able and willing to share my dream.

Amazingly enough it all came together. Perhaps through sheer dumb luck or as I would prefer to think, divine intervention, I found Linda Radke President of Five Star Publications a book packager. She coordinated the whole arrangement making my first endeavor in self publishing a rewarding and rather painless process.

Over the next year Linda and I became email pen pals of sorts. I would send my stories and ideas. She would send back input, drafts and sample covers etc. In all that time we rarely spoke in by phone and to this day we still haven’t met. I felt a little like Meg Ryan in the popular movie You Have Mail. Though it wasn’t Tom Hanks email I was waiting for, it was the next sample book I was waiting for, or news of a news release or sale.

Thanks in to Linda and her great staff’s commitment the first five books in my series were released March 2001. The reviews have been positive and though the children’s market is a tough one to break into, the professionalism has helped me get my foot into numerous doors including getting signed by a National Distributor, a critical step in getting my books into the major book store chains. The books can now be found in places like Barnes and Noble, Amazon.com or our web site www.AndiOmalley.com and as time goes by hopefully you can find them in a store near you.

The series is a chapter book for young readers, ages 8-10 years of age called The Adventures of Andi O’Malley. Each of the books gently introduces children to sensitive, real life issues in a way that will help them understand and better appreciate the world around them. Whether it be Angel Experiment JR134 when Andi gets a chance to switch places with the most popular girl in school only to find out that she prefers to be simply Andi O ’Malley; or Three Miracles when Andi and her friends learn the dangers of drinking and driving, the team has been able to translate my work into a package that charms whoever sees it.

From the beginning Linda seemed to understand where I was going with the series. It’s a tough line to walk, trying to introduce sensitive subjects to the third and fourth grade readers while weaving the lessons in an entertaining story. Subjects that sometimes Linda will admit, “get pretty deep.”

Andi OMalley series Working with Five Star’s on the first five books was such a rewarding experience I contracted them to work on the next six books as well. The books have been written and the covers have been designed and if possible I am more excited about this next set, due out this fall than the first and that’s saying something.

Yet looking back on our journey I find it amazing that we did it all without ever meeting. It seems as if I have known Linda for years frequently forgetting that I have never laid eyes on her.

I would guess that many other such relationships will begin over the internet like ours. I can only hope their story turns out as well as ours and they too live happily ever after."

Celeste Messer




April 19, 2001

"This letter is to recommend Linda Radke and her company, Five Star Publications.

Linda was the publishing consultant for producing my book, Junk Mail Solution. I am delighted with the quality of the book. Linda has assembled a five star team of experts to handle every aspect of self-publishing. She patiently guided this new author throughout the entire process.

Linda and her team have been easy to work with, prompt, thorough, and full of ideas and generously shared information.

Five Star Publications has been very professional and has gone the extra mile to produce and enthusiastically promote my book. I am more than pleased with the package of services received. I give Linda Radke a Five Star rating."

Jackie Plusch,
Author of Junk Mail Solution



April 13, 2001

Light in the Darkness "For anyone that is interested in having a book published, especially a first book, I would highly recommend the services of Linda Radke of FiveStar Publications. She and her staff will do a first class job to help you over the hurdles of getting your book in print.

In my case, her editing staff thought I should make some initial changes to make my book more marketable, interesting, and readable. I agreed with those suggestions, made the changes, and then proceeded with publication of the book with the aid of her talented staff's help.

Linda herself guided me beautifully through the intricacies of publication in a meticulous, precise, and concerned manner. She left no stones unturned in the process (and didn't let me!).

She then helped me to market the book in many ways. In addition to contacting multiple magazines, newspapers and other potentially interested sources, she succeeded in getting my book accepted by major book distributors. She also arranged multiple radio interviews around the country. Probably most effective for marketing, she set up a sophisticated web site devoted to information on the book and author.

Without Linda Radke's help, I would not have gotten my book published and marketed in such a dignified and professional way."

St. George Lee, MD



May 29, 2000

"You've done the hard part, you've written and published the book, but now what do you do? How do you get the word out? Where do you start? With Linda Radke of Five Star Publications is where! You will not find a more dedicated, friendly, professional marketer anywhere! What you get from Linda and her staff is not only their vast marketing expertise, but encouragement as well. They make sure you understand what is involved in marketing your book and they take the time to answer any and all questions. No question is too insignificant to them. Each client is made to feel their book is the only one they are handling.

For me personally, Linda took the time to explain the "book world" to me since I was filled with questions and worries. She put me right at ease. She and her colleagues put together a plan for my book, What Are They Going To Do, Send Me To Vietnam? which has proven quite successful. I have had numerous radio interviews in the United States and Canada as well as contact from many veteran's groups from around the country. Thanks to Five Star's efforts I have had several book signings as well. I have people from as faraway as Australia, Taiwan, India, and even Vietnam wanting more information. In addition, my book is selling quite well on Amazon.com.

If you want results, if you want to get your book noticed, you need toemploy Five Star Publications. They know how to push and they get results. Like the Energizer Bunny, they keep going and going and going... Please feel free to contact me if you want to talk to a very satisfied customer!"

Jack Stoddard
Sunrise Mountain Publishing



May 25, 2000

Creator "I give Five Star Publications the top prize for promoting my book, CREATOR, The Revelation of Healing Yourself and Others and for securing distribution throughout Canada and the United States. Linda Radke and her staff have produced outstanding results in a far shorter time period than I expected. I am impressed (and kept quite busy!) by the continual flow of interested interviewers and those asking me to speak in conference settings."

Mark Earlix (author and lecturer)
The Art of Healing, Inc.



January 26, 2000

"After I self-published my book, Husbands Who Love Men, I quickly realized that getting it into print was the easy part and that unless I got help with the marketing part of the process, I would end up with a lot of books in my garage! I was fortunate to find and retain the services of Five Star Publications, Inc. My only regret was not having the benefit of their expertise sooner. They could have helped me so much.

The honesty and integrity of Linda Radke and her Five Star Support Group staff have been above reproach. They are always available and ready to help in every way. Linda has a national network that has connected me to many radio talk shows, including Howard Stern's. My book has received broad publicity and I can truly say I have received more than I paid for.

I highly recommend Five Star Publications to any person or firm in need of publicity, advice, and all the services that go with publications. They have experts in all fields and Linda is indeed an expert herself."

Aileen H. Atwood RN, Ed.D.



January 5, 1999


"Having never published a book I was a novice to say the least. I talked with several companies in pursuit of the best. The saying that being "lucky is better than being good" applies to me and my relationship to Linda Radke and Five Star Publications. I didn't know enough to be good at selecting someone to help me publish my book, but I sure got lucky. Short of Linda providing her service for free I could ask for nothing more. What else can I say? My next book Linda does, it's just that simple."

Phil Rea



The Proper Pig "We first met Linda in 1995 when we were searching for a publishing consultant to assist us with our book. After meeting with a number of individuals in the publishing business, we found Linda to be extremely knowledgeable, professional, and personable. She immediately determined the level of assistance that we needed and offered several alternative approaches for proceeding with our project.

We subsequently engaged Linda for a variety of consulting services which culminated in the publication and promotion of our book. Throughout this venture, Linda offered enthusiastic support and encouragement along with sound advice.

We highly recommend Linda Radke to anyone who needs assistance with the development of a book concept, the publishing process, or the marketing and distribution of a book. Our experience has been both beneficial and enjoyable.

Please feel free to contact us for additional comment."

L. A. Kowal and Sally S. Stamp
LaSow, Inc.



Profits of Death "I have worked with Linda Radke on my book "Profits of Death" since December of 1995. She has been able to competently put together a staff of professionals that have aided in the successful completion of my book. Linda makes up for the lack of size of her company with unabashed enthusiasm. I had interviewed several people in making the decision to publish and chose Linda based on her enthusiasm and professionalism. It has been easy to work with Linda and her staff who always seem able to accomplish what they promise in a timely manner. Whatever your publishing project, you will be pleased by choosing Linda. Good luck."

Darryl J. Roberts



2 April 1998

"Five Star Publications and in particular Linda Radke, were recommended to me as an avenue to help with tactics and strategy in the merchandising / marketing of an educational text.

Their ideas were sound, practical and within budget. Implementing Five Star Publications' suggestions increased sales and too the publication to a new plateau.

Too, Linda was very good at "taking how the clients sensed the project should go forth" and using that with publishing reality.

Now, I recommend Five Star Publications."

Gary Katz
The Key To The Bible




June 28, 1999

"I have been a client of Five Star Publications, Inc. since October 1998 when I first sent a copy of my book to them for evaluation. Since then, we entered into an agreement for Five Star to provide the following services: Editing of the work, cover design, typesetting, layout, and printing and collating of the work. These services were provided within a 5-6 month time frame as outlined in our agreement.

I then hired Five Star to provide the following services: Sending Galley proofs, National Publicity, Marketing, and establish a Web site presence. At present, Five Star is still providing assistance with Marketing and National Publicity.

I have been extremely satisfied with Five Star and would recommend them to anyone interested in Publisher's Support Services. They have helped produce a product that I am most proud of and have established excellent exposure for me. Ms. Radke is a very conscientious person who goes the extra mile for her clients."

Ricki Pagano



"Five Star Publications's stable of resources is impressive. My manuscript was drafted, yet I had no idea how it would be reviewed by an agent or publisher. Linda Radke found editors that gave me two distinct and valuable perspectives that are allowing me to rewrite with confidence. This type of help is very hard to come by, and is very, very helpful."

Marlane Miller, global consultant
marlane@brainstyles.com
Executive coach, Master Trainer, author of BrainStyles: Change Your Life WITHOUT Changing Who You Are (Simon & Schuster)now in translation in 5 languages, taught worldwide



A visitor to our guestbook left this message...

"As an educator, parent, and avid reader, I am most impressed with you site and selection. I especially like that you have a wide variety of subjects, something that is always a winner when looking for books to purchase. A definite five star site."

Peter Robertson
Biloxi, Mississippi



Here's what publishers, editors, and authors are saying about PSS...

"I want you to know how much I appreciate Publishers Support Services. The books I have received from you to review have all been interesting, full of helpful information; books a reviewer could not have possibly received from the large publishers promoting their best seller lists. A support group like yours is doing authors a bigger service than they realize."

Virginia Sink
Book Review Columnist,
Tribune Review
Bethany, OK



"What a pleasure it has been dealing with you. Your enthusiasm and expertise are a winning combination. The suggestions you've made saved us money while increasing the effectiveness of our promotions."

Alan Korwin
Publisher
Bloomfield Press
Phoenix, AZ



"This letter is in reference to Linda Radke who has assisted Navajo Community College Press as a book publicist and has also provided other promotional services to us as well. I have found Linda to be a great asset to our operation. She is totally devoted and committed to what she does and she is also thorough and well-informed.

Navajo Community College Press is a small press in that we publish only about six titles a year. We are one of only about three community colleges presses in the United States and we are now 23 years old. Because our overall annual budget is considerably less than large publishers, or even mid-sized publishers, we are greatly concerned about how funds are put to use in all areas of operation.

We hired Linda as a consultant to assist us in promoting our books to particular target groups and Linda has been very helpful and effective in this assignment. As a result of the successful relationship between Navajo Community College and Linda Radke, I feel that I can highly recommend her to other publishers.

Please do consider her for a position with your press. She will be a great asset to you as she is to Navajo Community College Press. Thank you."

Anna L. Walters
Former College Press Director



"Linda Radke and Five Star Publications has given my book Nanise', A Navajo Herbal, a continuing public presence which translates into higher sales. Because of her, Nanise', like her other author's works, has been:

Reviewed in newspapers coast-to-coast; Sold overseas - even in Iceland and Nanise' is a book on desert plants! Featured at book signings hosted by a national bookstore chain; Advertised in national publications read by the nation's number one book buyers: librarians and educators; Invited to radio talk shows.

I had the expertise to write the book; and I need the marketing know how and resources of Linda Radke's Five Star Publications to make sure my award-winning book gets the publicity and store space it deserves."

Barbara Lacy, Author
President of Arizona Press Women, 1991-93



What I liked best about working with PSS was...

"Attention to every detail of distribution project!

Enjoyed our relationship established during the promotion and distribution of my book. Your guidance in the many approaches to the marketing of the book was most professional. Thanks Linda, for a job well-done."

Gerry Grout,
Artist



"PSS stayed within budget and provided professional service, and end product. Linda was great to work with - creative , enthusiastic, professional, flexible to meet needs of financial audience. No difficulties because of time change between Indiana and Arizona. Will use again."

Janet L. Myers,
Dearborn Business Group, Ltd.



"Quality of work and timeliness."

World Travel Institute Press, Inc.



"Your ability to capture the theme of the book quickly and to summarize so clearly."

Dennis Dunn, Dunn & Hargitt, Inc.



"I liked the process of dialogue regarding all matters.

None of us had all the answers but together we had more than any individual. Doing a biography is a very sensitive endeavor. PSS recognized that and took every precaution to avoid insensitivity to both author and biographee. On the other hand Linda Radke took initiatives that were a bit risky. One example was when a friend of the biographee suggested it would be great to have a governor's proclamation honoring the biographee. Linda Radke took it from there and within a month the proclamation was forthcoming!"

Nornel Associates,
Nelson Haggerson, Ph.D.



"Their professionalism and willingness to solve problems."

Ed McCombs
College Press Director
Navajo Community College Press
Tsaile, AZ



"I would recommend Five Star Publications to any publisher who wants personal and detailed attention to getting their book off the ground and into flight. FSP really understands the problems facing small and medium-sized publishers. I highly recommend them.

Linda's honesty, if it were not for this, we would have encountered major problems with one book. Linda does what she says she is going to do, and on time I might add."

Darryl White
Pyramid Publishing,
Forrest Hills, NY



"I am very happy with the services I've received ..publishing advice, editing and design of my book, finding...several book distributors (two of the largest in the country), the flier they wrote and designed, their publicity and marketing. You are in good hands."

Andrew Cochran
Abbottsford Publishing
Brookline, MA


To read more about our success stories click here.


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Click on each logo to find out more about our divisions:
Five Star Publicaitons, Inc. publishing fiction and a diverse selection of non-fictionLittle Five Star division of Five Star Publications, Inc. devoted to publishing childrenFive Star Legends a division of Five Star Publications dedicated to publishing western booksFive Star Sleuths a division of Five Star Publicaitons dedicated to publishing mysteriesSix Points Press a division of Five Star Publications dedicated to publishing books of Jewish interest


Five Star Publications, Inc.
P.O. Box 6698 Chandler, AZ 85246P: 480-940-8182Toll-Free 1-866-471-0777Email