Blog — banned books

Here in Tampa Bay, strawberries usually mean shortcakes and sundaes at Plant City’s Strawberry Festival. But for Stephen King fans, the fruit carries a darker weight. In Thinner, the cursed strawberry pie isn’t a celebration of sweetness at all—it’s the embodiment of justice, proof that even life’s sweetest indulgences can conceal a bitter reckoning.

What does it really mean to be a patriot? This blog explores timeless philosophies from Plato, John Stuart Mill, and Simone de Beauvoir—and how their views on justice, liberty, and ethical responsibility show up today in fine art, tattoos, and advertising. It’s a fresh take on patriotism that goes beyond flags and slogans, asking us to think deeper about what we truly stand for.

 I recently sold a beautiful, old copy of Jane Eyre which is about a courageous young woman who falls in love. The timing was auspicious, so I thought I'd also discuss a client's book series whose covers I designed. “Child of the Mountain Gods” is a modern take on Charlotte Bronte's feminist heroine and trailblazer writing style.

Artist Karen Strum explores the deeper meaning behind The Mad Tea Party—a watercolor inspired by Alice, absurdity, and the power of walking away.

What does it mean to wrestle with the tiger within? From Pi Patel’s allegorical survival story to Joe Exotic’s infamous roadside zoo, the tiger has become a symbol of faith, power, and controversy. Years ago, I even joined the roar myself—selling artwork at Carole Baskin’s Big Cat Rescue to help support their sanctuary. This International Pi Day, let’s ask: which story do you believe, and what truths are worth fighting for? 🐯🥧