In recognition of National Book Lovers Day, explore a few new titles to add to your bookshelf and celebrate the work of Tri Delta authors. From heartfelt memoirs and inspiring reflections to stories of friendship, resilience and even pizza, get to know these talented Tri Deltas and the stories they’ve brought to life.
FEATURED BOOKS AND AUTHORS
“Ella’s New Beat”
Ella Morrissey, Missouri
“Ella’s New Beat” is a heartfelt memoir about resilience, hope and the life-changing power of perseverance. After collapsing at school at just 10 years old, Ella was diagnosed with hypertrophic cardiomyopathy, beginning years of medical challenges that ultimately led to a heart transplant at age 17. With honesty, humor and remarkable courage, Ella shares what it was like growing up navigating chronic illness while holding on to hope for the future. Her story is a moving reminder of the strength found in family, faith, compassionate caregivers and the determination to embrace life, even in the face of unimaginable obstacles.
Ella is a heart transplant recipient and first-time author whose journey has inspired those around her with its resilience and optimism. Through “Ella’s New Beat,” she shares her personal story to encourage others facing adversity and to offer hope to anyone navigating life’s unexpected challenges. Her memoir celebrates the power of perseverance, the importance of community and the extraordinary gift of second chances.
“Abundance: Gratitude Reflections & Practices for an Overflowing Heart”
Alice Tyszka, Furman
For those seeking encouragement to slow down and appreciate the everyday moments, “Abundance” offers thoughtful reflections on the power of gratitude. Through personal stories, guided practices and meaningful insights, the book explores how gratitude can help with navigating life’s highs and lows with greater self-compassion, hope and resilience.
Readers will engage with messages to embrace authenticity, extend grace to themselves and others and discover joy in both the ordinary and extraordinary moments of life. Whether you’re starting a gratitude practice or simply looking for an uplifting read, “Abundance” offers inspiration to help readers cultivate a more grounded and abundant outlook.
Alice has been featured in various literary magazines, blogs and anthologies. She is also the founder of Alice’s Authoring Agency LLC and works with aspiring authors as a publishing consultant and writing coach. Putting her faith, kindness and positivity first, Alice makes it her mission to uplift everyone around her and fill empty pages with messages of goodness and light. When Alice is not writing stories or poetry, she can be found with her nose in a book, spending time with family and friends, exploring the outdoors or going on spectacular adventures.
“Autoimmunity and the Good Girls”
Sara Hirsh Bordo, Texas Christian
“Autoimmunity and the Good Girls” explores the connection between women’s health, caregiving and self-identity. Drawing from her own experiences, original research and interviews with experts, Sara examines how the pressure to always be “good” and put others first can affect both emotional and physical well-being. Readers will gain insight into the relationship between chronic stress, autoimmune disease and self-advocacy while discovering practical tools for setting boundaries, embracing authenticity and prioritizing their own health.
Sara is an award-winning documentary filmmaker, researcher and founder of Women Rising, a production company dedicated to elevating women’s stories. After living with Hashimoto’s disease and other autoimmune conditions for more than 15 years, she funded the first sociological study examining the relationship between female empowerment and autoimmunity in American women. The research, accessed in more than 18 countries, became the foundation for her first book, “Autoimmunity and the Good Girls.” Through her films, research and writing, Sara continues to advocate for women’s health, empowerment and the importance of helping women reclaim their voices.
“The Unbreakable Bond”
Kim Pickens Stubbs, Oklahoma State
Five women, one promise and a lifetime of friendship. Kim draws on her Tri Delta experience and friendships in her new novel. “The Unbreakable Bond” is a heartwarming tribute to the enduring power of female friendship. A story filled with love, resilience and the kind of connection that can only be built across a lifetime.
Kim has dedicated much of her life to caring for children, both professionally and personally. With a background in children’s healthcare and years of experience as a children and family photographer, she has always found joy in celebrating life’s special moments. Over the past year, Kim has channeled that passion into writing and publishing four children’s books and one fiction novel. Through her stories, she hopes to spark imagination, bring smiles and help families create lasting memories together.
“How the Hell Did I Not Know That?”
Lucie Frost, Southern Methodist
“How the Hell Did I Not Know That?” is a witty, relatable memoir about navigating life’s unexpected transitions with humor and curiosity. After retiring and finding herself without the routines and roles that once defined her, Lucie embarked on a year of asking questions, exploring the world around her and rediscovering a sense of purpose. Blending personal stories with fascinating trivia, the book encourages readers to embrace curiosity, find joy in the unexpected and see midlife as an opportunity for growth, adventure and new beginnings.
Lucie retired as a lawyer and is now a humor and satire writer. She is a regular contributor to NextTribe and has written for Slackjaw, Belladonna, Points in Case and other publications.
“Pazienza Pizza”
Gabrielle Cinelli, Adelphi
Patience is a hard virtue to learn, but it might just make all the difference. Take a journey with Anna, who is excited to finally learn how to make her Nonna’s pizza! But as the hours and days pass, Anna begins to wonder if she will ever learn this important life lesson.
Gabrielle earned a degree in journalism and media studies at the University of South Florida St. Petersburg, where she developed her passion for storytelling while gaining experience reporting across multiple media platforms. Her love of writing and creative communication inspired her to become an author, and she is excited to share her debut children’s book celebrating her favorite food—pizza!
For more book recommendations and conversations about all things reading, be sure to join our growing community on Facebook, Tri Delta Connections, and join our newest subgroup, Tri Delta Readers!