Day: December 27, 2023

Top 10 Sites to Design your Book Cover

 Creating an eye-catching book cover is crucial for grabbing a reader’s attention. Here are ten websites that offer tools and services to design captivating book covers:

  1. Canva: Known for its user-friendly interface and extensive design options, Canva provides templates, graphics, and tools specifically tailored for creating book covers. It’s popular among authors for its simplicity and versatility.

  2. Adobe Spark: This platform offers design tools that allow users to create professional-looking book covers using customizable templates, fonts, and images. It’s intuitive and suitable for both beginners and experienced designers.

  3. BookBrush: Designed specifically for authors, BookBrush offers templates and tools to create book covers, promotional graphics, and 3D book mockups. It focuses on catering to the needs of authors and book marketers.

  4. Cover Design Studio by Reedsy: Reedsy’s Cover Design Studio provides customizable templates created by professional designers. Authors can create and customize their book covers easily, ensuring a polished and professional look.

  5. Snappa: An easy-to-use graphic design tool that offers templates and a wide selection of images to create book covers. It’s ideal for authors seeking simplicity and a range of design options.

  6. Placeit: Known for its mockup generator, Placeit offers customizable book cover templates along with 3D mockups. It’s user-friendly and provides a variety of design options.

  7. PicMonkey: This versatile online photo editing and design tool offer templates and design elements to create book covers. It’s suitable for authors looking for a balance between simplicity and customization.

  8. PosterMyWall: While primarily a poster-making platform, PosterMyWall offers templates and tools that can be adapted for book cover design. It provides a range of customization options.

  9. Design Wizard: With an extensive library of images, graphics, and templates, Design Wizard allows users to create professional-looking book covers. It’s suitable for authors seeking a broad range of design elements.

  10. Fotor: An online photo editing and graphic design tool that provides templates and customization options for creating book covers. It offers a straightforward approach to design.

Each of these platforms has its strengths, whether it’s a wide variety of templates, user-friendly interfaces, or specialized tools for book-related design. Authors can explore these sites to find the one that best aligns with their design preferences and technical comfort level to create visually appealing book covers.

Top 10 Resources for Authors to Improve Writing

There are numerous services available to authors aiming to enhance their writing skills, refine their manuscripts, and navigate the publishing landscape. Here are ten standout services that provide valuable resources for writers seeking improvement:

  1. Grammarly: A widely used writing tool that helps authors improve grammar, punctuation, and style. It offers suggestions for clarity, tone, and conciseness, aiding in refining the overall quality of writing.

  2. Scrivener: A versatile writing software designed specifically for authors, Scrivener assists in organizing and structuring manuscripts. It offers features for outlining, note-taking, and drafting, streamlining the writing process.

  3. ProWritingAid: Similar to Grammarly, ProWritingAid is a comprehensive writing assistant that checks grammar, style, and readability. It provides in-depth reports and suggestions for improving writing quality.

  4. MasterClass: Offers online courses taught by renowned authors across various genres. These classes provide insights into the craft of writing, offering techniques, advice, and inspiration from seasoned professionals.

  5. The Writing Cooperative: A community-driven platform that offers resources, articles, and writing advice from a diverse group of authors. It fosters a supportive environment for writers to learn, share experiences, and grow.

  6. Writer’s Digest University: Provides online workshops, webinars, and courses covering different aspects of writing, including fiction, non-fiction, publishing, and marketing. These courses are taught by industry experts and offer practical knowledge for writers.

  7. Hemingway Editor: A writing tool that highlights complex sentences, passive voice, and readability issues. It aims to simplify and clarify writing, encouraging concise and impactful prose.

  8. LitReactor: Offers a variety of online workshops and courses focused on different aspects of writing, such as plot development, character creation, and genre-specific techniques. It provides a platform for writers to refine their skills.

  9. Critique Circle: An online platform where writers can receive feedback on their work from a community of fellow writers. It offers a supportive environment for critique and improvement.

  10. Your Local Writing Center or Workshops: Many cities and communities have writing centers or workshops offering in-person classes, critique groups, and resources for writers. These can provide invaluable face-to-face interaction and personalized feedback.

Each of these services caters to different facets of writing improvement, whether it’s grammar and style refinement, structuring manuscripts, gaining knowledge through courses, receiving feedback from peers, or engaging with a supportive writing community. Authors can benefit significantly by exploring these services to hone their craft and advance their writing careers.

Top Ten Free Publication Services for Authors

 There’s a wealth of publication services available for aspiring authors and seasoned writers alike, each offering distinct features and benefits. Here’s a glimpse into ten notable publication services that have made their mark in the literary world:

  1. Amazon Kindle Direct Publishing (KDP): As one of the most popular self-publishing platforms, KDP allows authors to publish and distribute eBooks and paperbacks globally. Its user-friendly interface, extensive reach, and royalty structure make it a go-to choice for many independent authors.

  2. IngramSpark: Renowned for its wide distribution network, IngramSpark enables authors to publish print and eBooks. It offers access to various distribution channels, including bookstores, libraries, and online retailers, making it a preferred choice for authors aiming for broad market reach.

  3. Smashwords: Focused on eBooks, Smashwords provides authors with a platform to publish and distribute their works across multiple retailers. It offers formatting tools, marketing options, and a broad distribution network, empowering authors to reach diverse audiences.

  4. Draft2Digital: Similar to Smashwords, Draft2Digital streamlines the eBook publishing process, providing authors with tools to format manuscripts, distribute across various platforms, and manage royalties. Its user-friendly interface and distribution options make it a convenient choice.

  5. BookBaby: Offering a comprehensive suite of services, BookBaby assists authors in self-publishing eBooks, print books, and audiobooks. It provides editing, design, and distribution services, catering to authors looking for a one-stop solution.

  6. Lulu: Lulu provides a platform for authors to self-publish print books and eBooks. It offers customizable publishing packages, printing services, and distribution options, catering to authors seeking control over the publishing process.

  7. Blurb: Known for its high-quality printing, Blurb specializes in enabling authors to create and publish print books, photo books, and magazines. It offers design tools and distribution services, emphasizing visual content and professional printing.

  8. Kobo Writing Life: Kobo Writing Life is an eBook publishing platform catering to authors interested in reaching Kobo’s global audience. It provides easy eBook creation tools, distribution options, and promotional opportunities within the Kobo ecosystem.

  9. Wattpad: Popular among writers and readers, Wattpad allows authors to publish stories serially, fostering a community-driven approach to storytelling. It provides exposure to a vast audience and engagement through reader interaction.

  10. Reedsy: More than just a publishing platform, Reedsy offers a marketplace connecting authors with professional editors, designers, marketers, and other publishing services. It provides a curated experience for authors seeking professional assistance throughout the publishing journey.

Each of these publication services caters to specific needs and preferences of authors, offering a range of tools, distribution networks, and support systems. Choosing the right service depends on an author’s goals, genre, publishing format, and desired level of control over the publishing process. Ultimately, authors benefit from exploring these options to find the service that aligns best with their vision for their work.

Significance and Art of Book Reviews

 Book reviews stand as vibrant reflections of literary critique, offering a glimpse into a reader’s interpretation, evaluation, and analysis of a written work. They serve as guiding beacons, navigating prospective readers through the labyrinth of literature, aiding in informed choices amidst a vast sea of options. These critical assessments not only illuminate the content of a book but also provoke discussions, foster connections, and contribute significantly to the literary ecosystem.

At their core, book reviews are multifaceted mirrors reflecting the myriad dimensions of a literary work. They encapsulate the essence of the narrative, delve into character depth, dissect thematic elements, and scrutinize the author’s style and craftsmanship. A well-crafted review transcends a mere synopsis; it unveils the nuances and intricacies, exposing the strengths and weaknesses while providing a comprehensive understanding of the book’s essence.

Moreover, book reviews serve as catalysts for intellectual discourse. They initiate conversations among readers, fostering a community where diverse perspectives coalesce. Readers engage in debates, share insights, and embark on journeys of intellectual exploration, amplifying the experience beyond the solitary act of reading. These discussions not only enrich individual interpretations but also contribute to a collective understanding of the literary landscape.

The art of crafting a compelling book review requires a delicate balance between objectivity and subjectivity. Reviewers navigate the terrain of personal opinion while maintaining an objective stance, offering a fair evaluation that respects both the author’s intent and the reader’s experience. A well-articulated review acknowledges the subjective nature of reading preferences while providing a reasoned analysis that aids readers in making informed choices.

Furthermore, the impact of book reviews transcends the realm of individual readership. They wield considerable influence in shaping literary trends, amplifying the visibility of authors and their works. A glowing review can catapult a book into the limelight, propelling it towards bestseller status and garnering the attention it deserves. Conversely, critical reviews, when constructive and insightful, serve as valuable feedback for authors, fostering growth and refinement in their craft.

In the digital age, the landscape of book reviews has evolved, proliferating across various platforms. From traditional print publications to online forums, social media, and dedicated book blogs, the avenues for sharing opinions have expanded exponentially. This democratization of reviewing empowers readers, allowing diverse voices to contribute to the rich tapestry of literary critique.

However, amidst this abundance of opinions, the integrity of book reviews stands as a cornerstone. Authenticity, honesty, and ethical responsibility are paramount. Reviewers bear the responsibility of offering genuine assessments, free from external influences or biases, maintaining the trust bestowed upon their insights.

In conclusion, book reviews serve as invaluable gateways into the literary universe, offering guidance, sparking discourse, and shaping the literary landscape. Their significance lies not only in elucidating the essence of a book but also in fostering a community bound by a shared love for literature. As readers, reviewers, and contributors to this vibrant tapestry of critique, we honor the diverse narratives that enrich our lives and perpetuate the timeless allure of the written word.

Send your book reviews for publication to editor@pen2print.org

Two Unique Satras of Majuli (largest river Island in the world), Assam: My Observations

This article is about two Satras (Religious places) from Majuli, a district in Assam, the most beautiful and largest river Island in the world. In this article, I intend to present cases of two Satras out of many Satras in Majuli. Satras are indigenous social institutional centres mainly associated with the Ekasarana tradition of Vaishnavism. Mahapurush Srimanta Sankardev initiated establishing Satra institutions to fulfil the religious and socio-cultural needs of the people. The word ‘Satra’ originates in the Bhagavata Purana in the Sanskrit term ‘Sattra’, meaning ‘an assembly of devotees’.
The Satra consists of a large prayer hall facing a simple shrine, surrounded by dormitories and bathing tanks for monks known as ‘Bhakats’. In many Satras, Bhakats cannot marry (strictly bachelors), known as ‘Udakhain Vaishnav’. They themselves stay on the premises of Satras and eat by self-cooking. Sometimes, one person cooks for some other ‘Udakhain Vaishnavs’. In this article, cases of two Satras are presented. Both are unique in their own ways. It is pertinent to mention that the author visited the Satras on December 13, 2023, and held discussions with the monks/Bhakats of the Satras. It is noteworthy to mention that the head of the Satra is known as Satradhikari.
Dakhsinpath Satra: This is one of the oldest Satras of Assam, established in 1654 by Satradikhar Sri Sri Banamali Dev Goswmi under the patronization of Ahom King Jayadhwaj Singha. This Satra is worth witnessing during the festival of ‘Raslila’ (associated with Bhagawan Sri Krishna). In this Satra in addition to the Puja room and Namghar (where devotees sit and chant devotional songs), there is a museum; when the author visited on December 13, 2023, came to know that many items of Ahom Kings, such as golden pots, big metallic dishes, silver utensils, beetle nut cutting instruments, etc., would be preserved in a museum under UNESCO tags (already the works have been done). The items are kept in a normal room with a lock and key. During the visit, a ‘Udakhain Vaishnav’ of Satra Sri Naren Kataky (81 years old) was contacted for the information. According to him, 80 ‘Udakhain Vaishnavs’ live on this campus, and rooms are available. More than 11 lakh disciples under the Satra live in different areas of Assam. These disciples lead normal lives by marrying, etc. Sri Kataky informed that there are four tea gardens and some lands under this Satra (a total of 7,000 acres of land). Earnings from all these sources are used for different activities of Satras, including for maintenance of 80 ‘Udakhin Vaishnavs.’ Also, he informed that the minimum age of a ‘Udakhin Vaishnav’ in the Satra was 11 years, and the maximum age was 83 years.

Chamaguri Satra: Chamaguri Satra is one of the attractions of Majuli. The Satra is considered an important centre of art and cultural and classical studies. This Satra is a leading institution where old craftsmanship, such as mask making and training in cane and bamboo items, are taught. The author had interacted with Sri Prasanna Goswami, who was one of the members of the Satra and competent to make masks, informed that in earlier days, by wearing masks, dramas were performed to educate people about the importance of religions and other issues. And still masks (made of clay) are made, which have high demand in the national and international markets. Further, Sri Goswami said anyone under the Satra need not be a bachelor, which means they can marry and lead normal lives. That is, the ‘Udhakhin Vaishnav’ concept is not applicable here.
I have shared my observations so that readers can understand the two Satras. I suggest readers visit Majuli as this is a different place with pollution-free, environmentally friendly, and amicable people. The people know English, Hindi, Assamese and the local tribal language. Further, fresh vegetables and fresh fish are available. Many of us live in the ‘Concrete jungle,’ so Majuli is different. When I visited, I found some ladies from France and Germany were also present in one Satra, and they appreciated Majuli and Satras, which were new to them.
Prof Shankar Chatterjee, Hyderabad

Dr. Nalla Bala Kalyan

Name of Scholar: Dr. Nalla Bala Kalyan
Brief About Scholar:
Name of Institution: Sri Venkateswara College of Engineering, (Autonomous), Karakambadi Road, Tirupati
Published Research Papers: Research Paper Entitled “Jeopardy and Arrival Analysis of Certain Cement Securities in India”, Published in International Journal of Advanced Science and Technology Vol. 29, No. 5, (2020), pp. 3806-3820, ISSN: 2005-4238 IJAST, Indexed by Scopus. Research Paper Entitled “Competitive Performance of Micro, Small and Medium Enterprises in India”, published in Asian Journal of Social Sciences, Vol. III (1), pp.128-146, Jan-June, 2011, ISSN: 0975-5942, Citations: 33. Research Paper Entitled “Micro, Small and Medium Enterprises in the 21st Century”, Published in Zenith International Journal of Business Economics & Management Research, Vol.2 Issue 5, pp.23-38, May, 2012, *UGC Approved Journal, ISSN: 2249 8826, Cita tions: 28. Research Paper Entitled “A Comparative Study on Risk & Return Analysis of Selected Stocks in India”, published in International Journal of Management and Economics Invention, Volume 04, Issue 05, May 2018, pp.1730-1736, ISSN: 2395-7220, Citations: 16. Research Paper Entitled “A Study on Risk & Return Analysis of Selected Securities in India”, published in International Journal of Engineering Technologies and Management Research, 5(4), 79-86, April 2018, Citations: 11. Research Paper Entitled “Sickness of Micro, Small and Medium Enterprises in India”, Published in International Journal of Business Management & Economic Research, Vol. 2 (6), pp.345-351, Nov-Dec, 2011, ISSN: 2229-6247, Citations: 10 Research Paper Entitled “A Study on Risk & Return Analysis of the Selected Mutual Funds Schemes in India”, published in International Journal of Research in Social Sciences, Vol. 8 Issue 5, May 2018, pp.212-221, ISSN: 2249-2496, *UGC Approved Journal, Citation s:9 Research Paper Entitled “Inventory Management Pattern of Steel Industry in India”, published in Organizations& Markets: Policies& Processes e journal, Vol.6, No.62, May, 2020, ISSN: 1556-5068, Citations: 6. Research Paper Entitled “Banking Sector Reforms in India”, Published in International Journal of Management and Humanities Research Script, Volume 4, Issue 4, December, 2017, pp.13-18, ISSN: 2349-7289, Citations: 7. Research Paper Entitled “Evaluation of Portfolio Analysis on Selected Securities of NSE in India”, Published in International Journal of Applied Engineering Research, Volume 14, Number 4 (2019) pp. 859-868, Research India Publications, ISSN 0973-4562, , UGC Approved Journal, Citations: 5. Research Paper Entitled “Marketing Strategies and Problems of Micro, Small and Medium Enterprises in Andhra Pradesh”, published in TIJ’s Research journal of Economics and Business Studies, Volume; 01, Number: 02, pp.58-65, December, 2011, *UGC Approved Journal , ISSN: 2251-1555, Citations: 4. Research Paper Entitled “A Case Study on Benefits for Quality of Work Life to Employees and Organizations in India”, published by (Iconic Research and Engineering Journals) IRE Journals, Volume 3, Issue 6, Dec 2019, ISSN: 2456-8880, Citations: 3. Research Paper Entitled “Problems and Prospects of Micro, Small and Medium Enterprises in Chittoor District”, Published in Abhinav National Journal of Research in Commerce & Management, Volume 6, Issue 10, pp.113-119, October, 2017, *UGC Approved Journal, ISSN-2277-1166, Citations: 3. Research Paper Entitled “Features of Entrepreneurship in India”, Published in “International Journal of Research” Volume 5, Issue1, pp.3752-3759, January 2018, IF: 5.60, *UGC Approved Journal, ISSN: 2348-6848, Citations: 2. Research Paper Entitled “Employment and Unemployment in India”, Published in Bookman International Journal of Accounts & Business Management, Vol.1 No.1, pp.1-6, September 2012, ISSN: 2319-426X, Citations: 2. Research Paper Entitled “A Study on Financial Derivatives With reference to Tata Motors Limited, Chittoor District of AP, India”, published in Global Journal for Research Analysis, Vol. 7, Issue-4, April-2018, pp.430-433, ISSN:2277 — 8160, Citations: 2. Research Paper Entitled “An Empirical Study on Development of the MSME Sector in Chittoor District of Andhra Pradesh, India”, Information Systems e journal, Vol.3, No.48, May1, 2020, ISSN: 1556-5068, SSRN Elsevier, Citations: 2 Research Paper Entitled “Ergonomics at Work Environment in India”, published in Applied & Practicing Anthropology e Journal, Vol. 4, No. 28: Apr 16, 2019, ISSN:1556-5068, SSRN Elsevier, Citations: 1. Research Paper Entitled “An Experiential Examination of Financial Performance of Foremost Power Segment Organization — APSPDCL”, published in Energy Policy and Economics e Journal, Vol.3, No.19: July 27, 2020, ISSN:1556-5068, SSRN Elsevier, Citations:1 Research Pa per Entitled “Magnification and Performance of Various Derivatives in India”, Published by Journal of Emerging Technologies and Innovative Research (JETIR), July 2021, Volume 8, Issue 7, ISSN-2349-5162, UGC Approved Journal no 63975, Citations:1. Indexed by Google Scholar Research Paper Entitled “A Study on Performance of SBI Blue Chip Fund at SBI Mutual Funds in India” Published in “International Journal of Advance Research, Ideas and Innovations in Technology”, Volume3, Issue6, pp.44-53, November, 2017, ISSN: 2454-132X Research Paper Entitled “Performance of Selected Stocks in Old Generation Private Sector Banks in India” published in International Journal of Management (IJM), Volume 9, Issue 2, March—April 2018, pp. 43—55, ISSN:0976-6510 Research Paper Entitled “Recital Assessment of Selected Balanced Funds of Various Companies in India” Published in IOSR Journal of Business and Management, Volume 19, Issue 11, pp.74-80, November, 2017, ISSN: 227 8-487X Research Paper Entitled “Macroeconomic Factors Influence on Stock Exchange in India” Published in International Journal for Science and Advance Research in Technology, Vol.4, Issue 6, pp.696-701, June 2018, ISSN:2395-1052 Research Paper Entitled “A Study on Performance Appraisal System in Service Sector Organizations in India” Published in “International Journal of Research in Computer Application& Management” Vol.8, Issue No.1, pp.20-24, January, 2018, ISSN: 2231-1009 Research Paper Entitled “A Study on Working Culture of Ergonomics in India” Published by International Journal of Innovative Research in Technology, April 2019, Volume 5 Issue 11, ISSN: 2349-6002 Research Paper Entitled “A Study on Employment Trends in India” Published in “Global Advanced Research Journal of Management and Business Studies”, Vol.1 (6), pp.173-180, July, 2012, ISSN: 2315-5086 Research Paper Entitled “A Study on Factors Influencing Brand Switching in Telecom Industr y in India” Published in International Journal of Latest Technology in Engineering, Management & Applied Science, Volume VII, Issue IX, September 2018, ISSN 2278-2540 Research Paper Entitled “A Study on Leadership Styles Adopted at V-Trans in India” Published in International Journal of Engineering and Management Research, Volume-8, Issue-6, December 2018, 135-141, ISSN: 2250-0758 Research Paper Entitled “Analysis of Financial Statement of NRC Agro with Special Reference to Goods and Service Tax” Published in IJSRST, Volume 6, Issue 1, ISSN: 2395-602X Research Paper Entitled “A Study on Competency Mapping at BGR Energy in India” Published by International Journal of Scientific Research and Engineering Development, Volume2 Issue 2, Mar —Apr 2019, ISSN: 2581-7175 Research Paper Entitled “Competitive Performance of Micro, Small and Medium Enterprises in India” Published in “Asian Journal of Social Sciences”, Vol. III (1), pp.128-146, Jan-June, 2011, ISSN: 0975-5942 Research Paper Entitled “A Study on Intellectual Property Rights (IPR) for Micro, Small and Medium Enterprises in India” Published in “IRE Journals, Volume 1, Issue 7, pp.1-5, January, 2018, ISSN: 2456-8880 Research Paper Entitled “Marketing Management for Micro, Small and Medium Enterprises in India” published in Journal of Research, Extension and Development, Vol.1, No.7, March 2013, pp.69-73, ISSN:2319-1899 Research Paper Entitled “Problems and Prospects of Micro, Small and Medium Enterprises in Chittoor District” Published in “Abhinav National Journal of Research in Commerce & Management”, Volume 6, Issue 10, pp.113-119, October, 2017ISSN-2277-1166 Research Paper Entitled “A Case Study on TQM for Micro, Small and Medium Enterprises in India” Published in Journal of Exclusive Management Science”, Volume 4, Issue 9, pp.1-6, September, 2015, IF: 2.78, ISSN 2277 -5684 Research Paper Entitled “A Case Study on Budding Inventive Trends in Market ing Products of Small-Scale Industries in India”, Published by International Journal of Creative and Innovative Research in All Studies, December 2019, Vol.2, Issue 7, ISSN: 2581-5334