Awards
Living Now Book Awards: Bronze – Green Living – Alternative Energy, Conservation, Gardening
Independent Publisher Book Award (IPPY): Gold – Finance/Investing/Economics
Amazon #1 New Release
Testimonial
“Thanks for the Precocity Press team who guided me along the way. From book coach Sara Volle for keeping me inspired to editor Brenda Lange and Victoria Brock for finding all those typos, to publisher Susan Shankin at Precocity Press for listening to all the rookie questions I had and Darcy Hughes with Dream Book Marketing.”
Dale Wannen
“Don’t Feed the Clowns: Sustainable Investing for Everyday Life”
Awards
Amazon #1 Best Seller
Amazon #1 New Release
Gordon Louis Hesse
“Cuban Blues: How Captivity in a Foreign Prison Saved My Life”
Awards
Living Now: Bronze – Inspirational Memoir – Female
ABF Best Book Award: Finalist – Autobiography
Next Generation Indie Book Awards: Winner Memoirs (Overcoming Adversity/Tragedy)
Book Excellence: Winner – Grief
Indie Excellence: Winner – Grief
Amazon #1 New Release
Testimonial
“I simply could not have had the outcome I had with my new book without Susan Shankin and Precocity Press.
Why do I say that?
Susan was consistently helpful and knowledgeable every step of the way. And, she gave her honest opinions – which turned out to be so right. She found me an artist to design the cover of my book that was perfect and more than I could have ever envisioned. Working with her is like working with a new friend; she is engaged, responsive, knowledgeable and connected.
As a first time author – I needed it. I just dropped some books off at a local bookstore ‘Beautiful’ is what the owner said of the book. Susan designs gorgeous books that resonate with what the book’s messages advocate.”
Kim Cantin
“Where Yellow Flowers Bloom: A True Story of Hope in Unimaginable Loss”
Awards
Beverly Hills Book Awards: Winner – Technology
Independent Publisher Book Award (IPPY): Winner – Science
Next Generation Indie Book Awards: Silver Medal – Memoirs (Historical/Legacy/Career)
USA Best Book Award: Finalist – Science
Amazon #1 New Release
Terri Ferguson
“Mr Liquid Crystal”
Awards
Amazon #1 New Release
Rev. Fred Morris
“Raising Hell for Jesus: Seven Decades of Faith, Courage, and Chasing the Impossible Dream”
Awards
Amazon #1 New Release
DJamal Kord L.Ac.
“Master Tung & Master Young for Practitioners and Students: The Authoritative Quick Reference Guide to Master Tung’s Acupuncture Points”
Awards
Amazon #1 New Release
Testimonial
“I am so glad that my debut children’s book was in the helpful hands of Precocity Press. Susan’s full-scope guidance and expertise, from preliminary conversations about concepts to tiny details in the production process, were invaluable to me as a first-time author. Thank you, Precocity Press!”
Jeff Goodman
“Feel Like Eggs?”
Awards
Living Now Book Award: Gold – Memoir
Independent Publishers Award (IPPY): Silver – LGBTQ
Best Book Awards: Winner – LGBTQ+ Nonfiction
Indie Excellence Book Awards: LGBTQIA Nonfiction
Los Angeles Book Festival Award: Honorable Mention – Biography/Autobiography
Testimonial
“Sara Volle, writing coach, has been absolutely wonderful throughout this process and I am grateful for her help throughout this project.”
Cedrick Bridgeforth
“Alabama Grandson”
Awards
Amazon #1 New Release
Joseph Yoo
“When The Saints Go Flying In: Stories about Faith, Life, and Everything In Between”
Awards
Best Book Awards: Finalist – Business – Personal Finance/Investing
USA Best News Award: Finalist – Business – Personal Finance/Investing
Foreword Indies: Finalist – Business & Economics
Eric Hoffer Award: 1st Runner Up – Business – Grand Prize Short List
Testimonial
“Working with Susan was an extraordinary experience—and I have worked with her twice. Susan’s expertise in helping authors develop a rough first draft manuscript into an award-winning book were evident right from our first meeting. Her exceptional design work went far beyond my expectations. I highly recommend Susan to any writer with a dream to publish a book.”
James E. Demmert
“Wall Street Lessons: Overcoming Fear, Greed and Being Your Own Worst Enemy”
Awards
USA Best News Award: Winner – Business – Personal Finance/Investing
New York Book Festival: Honorable Mention – Business
Beverly Hills Book Awards: Finalist – Business General
Gold Ink Award: Pewter Prize
Living Now Book Award: Gold: Social Activism / Charity
Next Generation Indie Book Awards®: Winner – Finance/Investment
James E. Demmert
“The Sustainable Endowment”
Awards
Indie Excellence Book Awards: Winner – Business-Motivational
Next Generation Indie Book Awards: Finalist – Business
USA Best Book Award: Finalist – Business – Personal Finance/Investing
New York Book Festival: Honorable Mention – Business
James E. Demmert
“The Journey to Wealth” and “The Sustainable Endowment” and “Wall Street Lessons”
Awards
Independent Publishers Award (IPPY): Gold – Entertainment
Living Now Book Award: Bronze – Memoir – Male
Mary Guillerman
“John Guillermin”
Awards
Nautilus Book Awards: Silver Medal
USA Best News Award: Finalist – Spirituality – Inspirational
International Book Awards: Finalist – Spirituality – Inspirational
Renée Starr
“You Are Woman, You Are Divine: The Modern Woman’s Journey Back to The Goddess”
Awards
Beverly Hills Book Awards 2015: Winner – Diet & Nutrition
Testimonial
“Publishing a book means expressing your thoughts related to ideas you care about for the benefit of others. Visual qualities, readability and understandability are what a book reader enjoys. I am about to publish my fourth book with Susan. Her creative talents regarding design and illustration have helped me publish three beautiful books. If you are an author, she is an exceptional professional who can help you get your message out effectively.”
John M. Poothullil, MD
“Eat, Chew, Live; Diabetes: The Real Cause and the Right Cure; Surviving Cancer, and When Your Child Has Cancer”
Awards
Eric Hoffer Award: Winner – Small Press
Next Generation Indie Book Awards: Finalist – Cookbooks/Healthy Eating/Nutrition
John Poothullil, MD
“The Diabetes-Free Cookbook & Exercise Guide: 80 Utterly Delicious Recipes & 12 Easy Exercises to Keep Your Blood Sugar Low”
Awards
Beverly Hills Book Awards: Finalist – Diet & Nutrition
USA Best News Award: Finalist – Diet & Excercise
John M. Poothullil, MD
“Diabetes –The Real Cause and the Right Cure, 2nd Edition: 8 Steps to Reverse Type 2 Diabetes in 8 Weeks”
Awards
Best Book Awards: Finalist – Health – Alternative Medicine
Nautilus Award: Gold – Health, Healing & Wellness
Independent Publishers Award (IPPY): Gold – Health/Medicine
Testimonial
“Publishing a book means expressing your thoughts related to ideas you care about for the benefit of others. Visual qualities, readability and understandability are what a book reader enjoys. I am about to publish my fourth book with Susan. Her creative talents regarding design and illustration have helped me publish three beautiful books. If you are an author, she is an exceptional professional who can help you get your message out effectively.”
John M. Poothullil, MD
“Your Health Is at Risk: How to Navigate Information Chaos to Prevent Lifestyle Diseases”
Awards
Indie Excellence Book Awards: Finalist – Relationships
Best Book Awards: Finalist – Women’s Issues/Studies
Rick Arenson, MD
“Women Are Superior to Men: The REAL Secret to a Fantastic Marriage, Joyful Parenting & Better Sex!”
Awards
Los Angeles Book Festival Award: Honorable Mention – Childrens books
Amazon #1 New Release
Sahel Amani-Ghoreyshi (Author) & Iole Rosa (Illustrator)
“Miracle Mello: Never Lose Hope, Miracles Happen Every Day!”
Awards
Beverly Hills Award: Winner – Business – Entrepreneurship & Small Business
USA Best Book Award: Finalist – Business – Management & Leadership
Barnes & Noble Book Seller Recommended Business Books
Testimonial
“I knew I wanted to write a book to promote my company, ‘Lead with Purpose.’ I wrote a first draft and it became clear I needed professional assistance from an experienced editor and book designer. What a relief when I found Susan, whose knowledge of all aspects of book publishing was impressive. She was an incredible partner throughout the entire experience—attentive to my needs, available when I needed to talk, and committed to producing a quality book.”
Marc Koehler
“Leading with Purpose”
Awards
Living Now Book Award: Gold – Metaphysical/Exploring Consciousness
Next Generation Indie Book Awards: Gold – New Age
Nautilus Book Awards: Silver – Gift & Specialty
USA Best News Award: Finalist – Health – Psychology & Mental
Testimonial
“Susan Shankin is brilliant and a joy to work with. As an art director, she aligned her vision and expertise with my book so that it came fully to life on the page. This was a complicated project: Susan worked with great diligence, passion and inspiration to seamlessly interweave images with the text. The synergy was magical and the book is truly beautiful. Even people who have read the manuscript are stunned by the richness of the book. I am so grateful to Susan for her genius and the love she pours into her work.”
Lauren Schneider
“Tarot: It’s All in the Cards”
Awards
Living Now Book Award: Silver – Metaphysical/Exploring Consciousness
Nautilus Award: Silver – Body ~ Mind ~ Spirit Practices
Best Book Awards: Finalist – Health – Psychology & Mental Health
Next Generation Indie Book Awards: Finalist – New Age
Indie Excellence Book Awards: Finalist – Activity Books – Adult
Testimonial
“Being a new author, navigating the difficult avenues of publishing my book was daunting. But Susan Shankin of Precocity Press made it easy and rewarding. She worked with me on every step of the process, and what a genius she is! She designed the book cover, laid out the pages, supervised edits and reedits and worked with me intensely on structural changes that made the book a better reflection of what I had to say. People tell me that they love the look of the book, and that is because of Susan. My book is up and running and successful because I trusted Susan Shankin and Precocity Press.”
Walter Berry
“Drawn into the Dream”
Awards
Nautilus Book Awards: Silver Medal – Psychology
USA Best Book Awards: Finalist
Testimonial for Precocity Press
“Launching your book into the world is like birthing a baby. I would not trust that precious task to just anyone! Susan is experienced, connected, kind, honest and brings a unique eye to book design, marketing, and sales. My book wouldn’t be what it is without her guidance and support, I can’t recommend her highly enough!”
Lauren Polly
“The Other Side of Bipolar”
Awards
Next Generation Indie Book Awards: Winner – Business
Indie Excellence: Finalist – Business – Entrepreneurship & Small Business
Amazon #1 New Release
Testimonial
“Susan Shankin created a marvelous cover and interior design that transformed the manuscript into a beautiful and readable book. I appreciate the great job Susan has done.”
John Shen
“Crossing the Swamp: My Path to Innovating as a Parallel Entrepreneur”
Awards
Nautilus Award: Silver – Science & Math
Indie Excellence Book Awards: Miscellaneous
Best Book Awards: Finalist – Science
Amazon #1 New Release
Testimonial
“I just published a book through Precocity Press, ‘The Evolution of Life: Big Bang to Space Colonies’ and I would like to share my experience. Susan and her team did an outstanding job with proofreading, graphic design and formatting. The end result is a very professional, high-quality book. Throughout the whole experience, I never felt that I had lost control of any aspect of the book’s production. It was truly a collaborative effort.”
Richard Anderson
“The Evolution of Life: Big Bang to Space Colonies”
Awards
Amazon #1 New Release
Testimonial
“Credit goes to Sara Volle, my writing coach and editor. You are the person who made my stories better than I could have imagined. You talked me off the ledge when I wanted to throw in the towel and quit. You are so gifted and such a joy to work with.
To Susan Shankin, my publisher. You had the vision of what and who I am. And what this book could be. You made it beautiful and fun. I do not know how in the world you manage people like me every day and stay sane.
To Tim Kummerow, my illustrator. I could not have imagined working with someone so talented. You understood my crazy vision for these stories. Your illustrations are amazing and have added so much to this book.
To Julie Simpson, my copy editor. There were a couple of times I dreaded having you read my stories. I was scared, but you were positive with your feedback. You gave me hope. I am in awe of your attention to detail and the work you did on this book.”
Stephanie Geller
“You Can’t Make This Sh!t Up: Stories of a Badass Life”
Awards
Amazon #1 New Release
Testimonial
“I am especially thankful to Susan Shankin of Precocity Press for her skills in assembling a beautiful book and completing all necessary publishing details to bring the book to reality. I am most grateful for the team of experts she assembled to add their talents in all the ways necessary to produce my story in its best light.
Likewise, illustrator Tim Kummerow faithfully transformed my ideas into an exciting cover and engaging graphic expressions throughout the book. Based on written or verbal descriptions, and sometimes my own crude sketches, Tim’s artistic renderings reveal exactly what I imagined. His drawings help bring the story alive.
Julie Simpson’s role as copyeditor was executed with excellence. Beyond that, she grew to know my characters and helped me keep their actions and dialogue true to their being. Fictional characters exist to the extent they are believable. She made sure they seemed real. Her assistance was essential in the creation of the final transcript.
To Darcy Hughes for her marketing support and creative work on my website. I especially appreciate her help in developing interest in what I consider to be an important story.”
Richard M Anderson
“Outbound: Islands in the Void”
“Thank you Brenda Lange and particularly Susan Shankin at Precocity Press for the final work and making the book available to all.”
Ming C. Lowe
“MISSISSIPPI BLACKTOP: long road to the blues”
Awards
Amazon #1 New Release
Testimonial
“I am grateful to my publisher Susan Shankin, Precocity Press. Thank you for believing in my book, your creative prowess and beautiful work, and your warmth and support. Thanks to Brenda Lange and Victoria Brock for your diligence in copy editing and proofreading.”
Meri Wallace, LCSW
“The Secret World of Children: Understand Why Your Kids Behave the Way They Do”
“Susan Shankin did a wonderful job in designing the cover and internal content my book, ‘Good to Go: Five Understandings to Navigate a Peaceful and Elegant Last Chapter of Life.’ She is thorough in her work, pleasant and easy to talk with. She was easily available and response to request. I whole heartedly recommend Susan.”
John Horton, MD
“Good to Go: Five Understandings to Navigate a Peaceful and Elegant Last Chapter of Life”
“I am grateful to Susan Shankin and Precocity Press for her excellent work on design and interior layout and for working with me to bring this project to completion.”
Dr. Kathy Hodge Dudley
“Bridges: Transforming Communities Together”
“Thanks to everyone who helped me produce this book at light speed: Susan Shankin for design and publishing, Deborah Steinberg for developmental editing, and Julie Simpson for copyediting.”
Christiane zu Salm
“In My Own Last Words: Insights Shared by the Dying”
“If you are looking for a publisher for your book, you should consider Susan Shankin, of Precocity Press. She has just published my book and I couldn’t be happier with the results. She knows what she is doing. Her work is meticulous, creative, and beautiful. We have had an excellent working relationship on zoom, but she was also always available by telephone. She was easy to talk to, listened to what I had to say, and was supportive of my project.”
Alice Cunningham
“ABDUCTED: My Struggle to Remember”
“Susan Shankin is straight-forward, trustworthy and responsible. She was clear about financial commitments, timing of project, marketing and was communicative about unexpected changes to original expectations. These are wonderful attributes in a Publisher.”
Linda Modaro and Nelly Kaufer
“Reflective Meditation: Cultivating Kindness and Curiosity in the Buddha’s Company”
“Susan Shankin was a joy to work with. Her publishing company, Precocity Press was instrumental in bringing my very first book, ‘US: The Resurrection of American Terror’ to the public’s attention.
Susan brought an undeniable passion and skill to her work. She has an uncanny eye for what works and what doesn’t when it comes to design. Every step along the way I had the sense that Susan’s goal was to make the writer shine. I appreciated her professionalism combined with a deep sense of care and respect not only for what I wrote but equally for who I was as a person.”
Kenneth W. Wheeler
“US: The Resurrection of American Terror”
“Regarding ‘The Adventure of Sockboy’ series. I had no idea of the method involved or what to expect. I had worked so hard writing and painting and I was walking into this final phase with great uncertainty. I found the process to not only be very thorough but at times even fun. Through the Zoom meetings, I could see the refinement of my books flower into well-polished works. Both Susan Shankin and editor Lorraine Wadman told me right from the beginning that I as the author had final say and put all my worries at ease. We didn’t change much, and the changes were subtle but effective enough to bring the full meaning of my work to light. They also told me the reasoning behind their advice instead of just saying do it like this. I was informed at every step of what was happening and never had to wonder what was going on. I found the experience so agreeable that I went through them for my second book and will also for my third. I’m very grateful.”
Karl Cottle
“The Adventure of Sockboy,” “Sockboy: The Halloween Special” and “Sockboy in Space”
“I love working with Susan and Lorraine! Their support has made the publishing experience feel doable and fun. They break down the process step-by-step and ensure a quality end product. With their help, I have published two books!”
Nishi Singhal
“A Friendship Story: Heart & Mind and Heart” and “Heart & Mind: Meet a New Friend”
“From start to finish, Susan was highly professional and a joy to work with. She helped us with the design, co-edited the manuscript with her editor.”
Margie Gayle
“My Love Is for Always: Profound Little Messages to Grow a Resilient Child” and “The Secret to Loving Yourself”
“My book won two prestigious awards and became an Amazon bestseller in six countries. We have all heard the statement, ‘You can’t judge a book by its cover.’ There is some truth to that statement. However, the cover is extremely important. It is what makes a first impression on the buyer. The cover is critical to the buyer looking inside. Once the buyer gets inside, the layout of the book must be ‘reader-friendly.’ It must be easy to read and understand. Susan Shankin is superb at what she does. She talked with me to understand the vision I was trying to communicate. She then did the design work to attract the buyer to the book. Susan’s work was a major contributor to the success of my award-winning, best-selling book. I had no idea of the complexity of effort necessary to take the content of the book I had written and turn it into a finished published product. I am so grateful that I contacted Susan Shankin to provide the design services and production of my book. Susan had the combination of expertise, skill, and personality to help me avoid a variety of problems. Her cover design of the book is powerful and effective. More importantly, Susan paid attention to my vision for how I wanted the pages laid out. She balanced the reality of publishing constraints and my sometimes, outrageous ideas! The end result is a book that is striking both inside and out. Susan’s hard work and final touches have produced a book for which I am very proud.”
Bill Blokker, Ed.D
“Achieve Beyond Expectations: Master the 5 Intangibles to Make the Impossible, Possible!”
“A friend recommended Susan Shankin to help me finish and publish my first book, “The Making of Mr. Mac,” a memoir. I was unfamiliar with the publishing world. I will always be grateful for her sound and steady advice because she listened carefully to understand my original concept of the book and was ultimately creative with her own outstanding contributions to the look and its overall feel from cover to cover. She possessed a positive, cheerful, optimism—a part of her nature which is so helpful to the creative process which can be daunting. Whether this is your first time or you a seasoned author, Susan Shankin of Precocity Press will be professional and highly effective in making the publishing process easier and more successful. I couldn’t be happier with this highly skilled professional.”
James Maechling
“The Making of Mr. Mac”
“Susan is amazing to work with. She completed her design and publishing tasks within schedule and patiently guided me through the publishing process with encouragement and inspiration. ‘Song of a Lotus Leaf’ is my first book. I was nervous at first but then absolutely thrilled when Susan showed me the final draft via Zoom. My Word document had become the beautiful book I had dreamed about for a long time! I highly recommend Susan and Precocity Press. You will not be disappointed!”
Dawn Li
“Song of a Lotus Leaf”
“On my book project, Susan was an inspiration, wise counsel, and talented designer. I feel blessed by all of it. Thank you for your support of ‘Save Our Democracy.'”
Sakada
“Save Our Democracy”
“I enthusiastically endorse Susan Shankin’s creative talents! Her cover art for my book and interior layout were striking and unique, enhanced interest in it, and stimulated many admiring comments from readers. Her imaginative artistry and design inventions are exceeded only by her caring interest in seeing that her clients succeed.”
Jack Schramm
“Passionate Purpose: A Global Governance Journey”
“Susan Shankin was a great partner all along the process of making my novel ‘One Woman Three Men’ reach the US market. She understood me as a writer, and carefully took me through the different steps in the process with great competence and kindness. Her focus is to advise you how to make the manuscript become the best book. And once you agree on the different elements, she makes it happen. Susan even found me a Hollywood agent. All in all, she is very professional and great to work with.”
Pouline Middleton
“One Woman Three Men: A Novel About Modern Love and Sex”
“Thank you to Susan Shankin and Rick Benzel from Precocity Press for their many hours of manuscript review, layout, and helpful suggestions.”
Hubert Venenman
“Stefan Heym: A Critical Analysis Of His Autobiography And Circle Of Acquaintances”
Awards
Living Now Book Awards: Bronze – Green Living – Alternative Energy, Conservation, Gardening
Independent Publisher Book Award (IPPY): Gold – Finance/Investing/Economics
Amazon #1 Best Seller
Amazon #1 New Release
Testimonial
“Thanks for the Precocity Press team who guided me along the way. From book coach Sara Volle for keeping me inspired to editor Brenda Lange and Victoria Brock for finding all those typos, to publisher Susan Shankin at Precocity Press for listening to all the rookie questions I had and Darcy Hughes with Dream Book Marketing.”
Dale Wannen
Don’t Feed the Clowns: Sustainable Investing for Everyday Life
Awards
Living Now: Bronze – Inspirational Memoir – Female
ABF Best Book Award: Finalist – Autobiography
Next Generation Indie Book Awards: Winner Memoirs (Overcoming Adversity/Tragedy)
Book Excellence: Winner – Grief
Indie Excellence: Winner – Grief
Amazon #1 Best Seller
Amazon #1 New Release
Testimonial
“I simply could not have had the outcome I had with my new book without Susan Shankin and Precocity Press.
Why do I say that?
Susan was consistently helpful and knowledgeable every step of the way. And, she gave her honest opinions – which turned out to be so right. She found me an artist to design the cover of my book that was perfect and more than I could have ever envisioned. Working with her is like working with a new friend; she is engaged, responsive, knowledgeable and connected.
As a first time author – I needed it. I just dropped some books off at a local bookstore ‘Beautiful’ is what the owner said of the book. Susan designs gorgeous books that resonate with what the book’s messages advocate.”
Kim Cantin
Where Yellow Flowers Bloom: A True Story of Hope in Unimaginable Loss
Awards
Beverly Hills Book Awards: Winner – Technology
Independent Publisher Book Award (IPPY): Winner – Science
Next Generation Indie Book Awards: Silver Medal – Memoirs (Historical/Legacy/Career)
USA Best Book Award: Finalist – Science
Amazon #1 Best Seller
Amazon #1 New Release
Terri Ferguson
Mr Liquid Crystal
Awards
Living Now Book Award: Gold – Memoir
Independent Publishers Award (IPPY): Silver – LGBTQ
Best Book Awards: Winner – LGBTQ+ Nonfiction
Indie Excellence Book Awards: LGBTQIA Nonfiction
Los Angeles Book Festival Award: Honorable Mention – Biography/Autobiography
Testimonial
“Sara Volle, writing coach, has been absolutely wonderful throughout this process and I am grateful for her help throughout this project.”
Cedrick Bridgeforth
Alabama Grandson
Awards
Best Book Awards: Finalist – Business – Personal Finance/Investing
USA Best News Award: Finalist – Business – Personal Finance/Investing
Foreword Indies: Finalist – Business & Economics
Eric Hoffer Award: 1st Runner Up – Business – Grand Prize Short List
Testimonial
“Working with Susan was an extraordinary experience—and I have worked with her twice. Susan’s expertise in helping authors develop a rough first draft manuscript into an award-winning book were evident right from our first meeting. Her exceptional design work went far beyond my expectations. I highly recommend Susan to any writer with a dream to publish a book.”
James E. Demmert
Wall Street Lessons: Overcoming Fear, Greed and Being Your Own Worst Enemy
Awards
USA Best News Award: Winner – Business – Personal Finance/Investing
New York Book Festival: Honorable Mention – Business
Beverly Hills Book Awards: Finalist – Business General
Gold Ink Award: Pewter Prize
Living Now Book Award: Gold: Social Activism / Charity
Next Generation Indie Book Awards®: Winner – Finance/Investment
James E. Demmert
The Sustainable Endowment
Awards
Indie Excellence Book Awards: Winner – Business-Motivational
Next Generation Indie Book Awards: Finalist – Business
USA Best Book Award: Finalist – Business – Personal Finance/Investing
New York Book Festival: Honorable Mention – Business
James E. Demmert
The Journey to Wealth
Awards
Independent Publishers Award (IPPY): Gold – Entertainment
Living Now Book Award: Bronze – Memoir – Male
Mary Guillerman
John Guillermin: The Man, The Myth, The Movies
Awards
Nautilus Book Awards: Silver Medal
USA Best News Award: Finalist – Spirituality – Inspirational
International Book Awards: Finalist – Spirituality – Inspirational
Renée Starr
You Are Woman, You Are Divine: The Modern Woman’s Journey Back to The Goddess
Awards
Beverly Hills Book Awards 2015: Winner – Diet & Nutrition
Testimonial
“Publishing a book means expressing your thoughts related to ideas you care about for the benefit of others. Visual qualities, readability and understandability are what a book reader enjoys. I am about to publish my fourth book with Susan. Her creative talents regarding design and illustration have helped me publish three beautiful books. If you are an author, she is an exceptional professional who can help you get your message out effectively.”
John M. Poothullil, MD
Eat, Chew, Live; Diabetes: The Real Cause and the Right Cure; Surviving Cancer, and When Your Child Has Cancer
Awards
Eric Hoffer Award: Winner – Small Press
Next Generation Indie Book Awards: Finalist – Cookbooks/Healthy Eating/Nutrition
John Poothullil, MD
The Diabetes-Free Cookbook & Exercise Guide: 80 Utterly Delicious Recipes & 12 Easy Exercises to Keep Your Blood Sugar Low
Awards
Beverly Hills Book Awards: Finalist – Diet & Nutrition
USA Best News Award: Finalist – Diet & Excercise
John M. Poothullil, MD
Diabetes –The Real Cause and the Right Cure, 2nd Edition: 8 Steps to Reverse Type 2 Diabetes in 8 Weeks
Awards
Best Book Awards: Finalist – Health – Alternative Medicine
Nautilus Award: Gold – Health, Healing & Wellness
Independent Publishers Award (IPPY): Gold – Health/Medicine
Testimonial
“Publishing a book means expressing your thoughts related to ideas you care about for the benefit of others. Visual qualities, readability and understandability are what a book reader enjoys. I am about to publish my fourth book with Susan. Her creative talents regarding design and illustration have helped me publish three beautiful books. If you are an author, she is an exceptional professional who can help you get your message out effectively.”
John M. Poothullil, MD
Your Health Is at Risk: How to Navigate Information Chaos to Prevent Lifestyle Diseases
Awards
Indie Excellence Book Awards: Finalist – Relationships
Best Book Awards: Finalist – Women’s Issues/Studies
Rick Arenson, MD
Women Are Superior to Men: The REAL Secret to a Fantastic Marriage, Joyful Parenting & Better Sex!
Awards
Amazon #1 Best Seller
Amazon #1 New Release
Los Angeles Book Festival Award: Honorable Mention – Children’s books
Sahel Amani-Ghoreyshi (Author) & Iole Rosa (Illustrator)
Miracle Mello: Never Lose Hope, Miracles Happen Every Day!
Awards
Beverly Hills Award: Winner – Business – Entrepreneurship & Small Business
USA Best Book Award: Finalist – Business – Management & Leadership
Barnes & Noble Book Seller Recommended Business Books
Testimonial
“I knew I wanted to write a book to promote my company, Lead with Purpose. I wrote a first draft and it became clear I needed professional assistance from an experienced editor and book designer. What a relief when I found Susan, whose knowledge of all aspects of book publishing was impressive. She was an incredible partner throughout the entire experience—attentive to my needs, available when I needed to talk, and committed to producing a quality book.”
Marc Koehler
Leading with Purpose
Awards
Living Now Book Award: Gold – Metaphysical/Exploring Consciousness
Next Generation Indie Book Awards: Gold – New Age
Nautilus Book Awards: Silver – Gift & Specialty
USA Best News Award: Finalist – Health – Psychology & Mental
Testimonial
“Susan Shankin is brilliant and a joy to work with. As an art director, she aligned her vision and expertise with my book so that it came fully to life on the page. This was a complicated project: Susan worked with great diligence, passion and inspiration to seamlessly interweave images with the text. The synergy was magical and the book is truly beautiful. Even people who have read the manuscript are stunned by the richness of the book. I am so grateful to Susan for her genius and the love she pours into her work.”
Lauren Schneider
Tarotpy: It’s All in the Cards
Awards
Living Now Book Award: Silver – Metaphysical/Exploring Consciousness
Nautilus Award: Silver – Body ~ Mind ~ Spirit Practices
Best Book Awards: Finalist – Health – Psychology & Mental Health
Next Generation Indie Book Awards: Finalist – New Age
Indie Excellence Book Awards: Finalist – Activity Books – Adult
Testimonial
“Being a new author, navigating the difficult avenues of publishing my book was daunting. But Susan Shankin of Precocity Press made it easy and rewarding. She worked with me on every step of the process, and what a genius she is! She designed the book cover, laid out the pages, supervised edits and reedits and worked with me intensely on structural changes that made the book a better reflection of what I had to say. People tell me that they love the look of the book, and that is because of Susan. My book is up and running and successful because I trusted Susan Shankin and Precocity Press.”
Walter Berry
Drawn into the Dream
Awards
Nautilus Book Awards: Silver Medal – Psychology
USA Best Book Awards: Finalist
Testimonial for Precocity Press
“Launching your book into the world is like birthing a baby. I would not trust that precious task to just anyone! Susan is experienced, connected, kind, honest and brings a unique eye to book design, marketing, and sales. My book wouldn’t be what it is without her guidance and support, I can’t recommend her highly enough!”
Lauren Polly
The Other Side of Bipolar
Awards
Next Generation Indie Book Awards: Winner – Business
Indie Excellence: Finalist – Business – Entrepreneurship & Small Business
Amazon #1 Best Seller
Amazon #1 New Release
Testimonial
“Susan Shankin created a marvelous cover and interior design that transformed the manuscript into a beautiful and readable book. I appreciate the great job Susan has done.”
John Shen
Crossing the Swamp: My Path to Innovating as a Parallel Entrepreneur
Awards
Nautilus Award: Silver – Science & Math
Indie Excellence Book Awards: Miscellaneous
Best Book Awards: Finalist – Science
Amazon #1 Best Seller
Amazon #1 New Release
Testimonial
“I just published a book through Precocity Press, The Evolution of Life: Big Bang to Space Colonies and I would like to share my experience. Susan and her team did an outstanding job with proofreading, graphic design and formatting. The end result is a very professional, high-quality book. Throughout the whole experience, I never felt that I had lost control of any aspect of the book’s production. It was truly a collaborative effort.”
Richard Anderson
The Evolution of Life: Big Bang to Space Colonies
Awards
Amazon #1 Best Seller
Amazon #1 New Release
Testimonial
“Credit goes to Sara Volle, my writing coach and editor. You are the person who made my stories better than I could have imagined. You talked me off the ledge when I wanted to throw in the towel and quit. You are so gifted and such a joy to work with.
To Susan Shankin, my publisher. You had the vision of what and who I am. And what this book could be. You made it beautiful and fun. I do not know how in the world you manage people like me every day and stay sane.
To Tim Kummerow, my illustrator. I could not have imagined working with someone so talented. You understood my crazy vision for these stories. Your illustrations are amazing and have added so much to this book.
To Julie Simpson, my copy editor. There were a couple of times I dreaded having you read my stories. I was scared, but you were positive with your feedback. You gave me hope. I am in awe of your attention to detail and the work you did on this book.”
Stephanie Geller
You Can’t Make This Sh!t Up: Stories of a Badass Life
Awards
Amazon #1 Best Seller
Amazon #1 New Release
Testimonial
“I am especially thankful to Susan Shankin of Precocity Press for her skills in assembling a beautiful book and completing all necessary publishing details to bring the book to reality. I am most grateful for the team of experts she assembled to add their talents in all the ways necessary to produce my story in its best light.
Likewise, illustrator Tim Kummerow faithfully transformed my ideas into an exciting cover and engaging graphic expressions throughout the book. Based on written or verbal descriptions, and sometimes my own crude sketches, Tim’s artistic renderings reveal exactly what I imagined. His drawings help bring the story alive.
Julie Simpson’s role as copyeditor was executed with excellence. Beyond that, she grew to know my characters and helped me keep their actions and dialogue true to their being. Fictional characters exist to the extent they are believable. She made sure they seemed real. Her assistance was essential in the creation of the final transcript.
To Darcy Hughes for her marketing support and creative work on my website. I especially appreciate her help in developing interest in what I consider to be an important story.”
Richard M Anderson
Outbound: Islands in the Void
“Thank you Brenda Lange and particularly Susan Shankin at Precocity Press for the final work and making the book available to all.”
Ming C. Lowe
MISSISSIPPI BLACKTOP: long road to the blues
Awards
Amazon #1 Best Seller
Amazon #1 New Release
Testimonial
“I am grateful to my publisher Susan Shankin, Precocity Press. Thank you for believing in my book, your creative prowess and beautiful work, and your warmth and support. Thanks to Brenda Lange and Victoria Brock for your diligence in copy editing and proofreading.”
Meri Wallace, LCSW
The Secret World of Children: Understand Why Your Kids Behave the Way They Do
“Susan Shankin did a wonderful job in designing the cover and internal content my book, Good to Go: Five Understandings to Navigate a Peaceful and Elegant Last Chapter of Life. She is thorough in her work, pleasant and easy to talk with. She was easily available and response to request. I whole heartedly recommend Susan.”
John Horton, MD
Good to Go: Five Understandings to Navigate a Peaceful and Elegant Last Chapter of Life
“I am grateful to Susan Shankin and Precocity Press for her excellent work on design and interior layout and for working with me to bring this project to completion.”
Dr. Kathy Hodge Dudley
Bridges: Transforming Communities Together
“Thanks to everyone who helped me produce this book at light speed: Susan Shankin for design and publishing, Deborah Steinberg for developmental editing, and Julie Simpson for copyediting.”
Christiane zu Salm
In My Own Last Words: Insights Shared by the Dying
“If you are looking for a publisher for your book, you should consider Susan Shankin, of Precocity Press. She has just published my book and I couldn’t be happier with the results. She knows what she is doing. Her work is meticulous, creative, and beautiful. We have had an excellent working relationship on zoom, but she was also always available by telephone. She was easy to talk to, listened to what I had to say, and was supportive of my project.”
Alice Cunningham
Abducted: My Struggle to Remember
“Susan Shankin is straight-forward, trustworthy and responsible. She was clear about financial commitments, timing of project, marketing and was communicative about unexpected changes to original expectations. These are wonderful attributes in a Publisher.”
Linda Modaro and Nelly Kaufer
Reflective Meditation: Cultivating Kindness and Curiosity in the Buddha’s Company
“Susan Shankin was a joy to work with. Her publishing company, Precocity Press was instrumental in bringing my very first book, US: The Resurrection of American Terror to the public’s attention.
Susan brought an undeniable passion and skill to her work. She has an uncanny eye for what works and what doesn’t when it comes to design. Every step along the way I had the sense that Susan’s goal was to make the writer shine. I appreciated her professionalism combined with a deep sense of care and respect not only for what I wrote but equally for who I was as a person.”
Kenneth W. Wheeler
US: The Resurrection of American Terror
“Regarding The Adventure of Sockboy series. I had no idea of the method involved or what to expect. I had worked so hard writing and painting and I was walking into this final phase with great uncertainty. I found the process to not only be very thorough but at times even fun. Through the Zoom meetings, I could see the refinement of my books flower into well-polished works. Both Susan Shankin and editor Lorraine Wadman told me right from the beginning that I as the author had final say and put all my worries at ease. We didn’t change much, and the changes were subtle but effective enough to bring the full meaning of my work to light. They also told me the reasoning behind their advice instead of just saying do it like this. I was informed at every step of what was happening and never had to wonder what was going on. I found the experience so agreeable that I went through them for my second book and will also for my third. I’m very grateful.”
Karl Cottle
The Adventure of Sockboy, Sockboy: The Halloween Special and Sockboy in Space
“I love working with Susan and Lorraine! Their support has made the publishing experience feel doable and fun. They break down the process step-by-step and ensure a quality end product. With their help, I have published two books!”
Nishi Singhal
A Friendship Story: Heart & Mind and Heart and Heart & Mind: Meet a New Friend
“From start to finish, Susan was highly professional and a joy to work with. She helped us with the design, co-edited the manuscript with her editor.”
Margie Gayle
My Love Is for Always: Profound Little Messages to Grow a Resilient Child and The Secret to Loving Yourself: Profound Little Messages to Change Your Life
Awards
Amazon #1 Best Seller
Amazon #1 New Release
“My book won two prestigious awards and became an Amazon bestseller in six countries. We have all heard the statement, ‘You can’t judge a book by its cover.’ There is some truth to that statement. However, the cover is extremely important. It is what makes a first impression on the buyer. The cover is critical to the buyer looking inside. Once the buyer gets inside, the layout of the book must be ‘reader-friendly.’ It must be easy to read and understand. Susan Shankin is superb at what she does. She talked with me to understand the vision I was trying to communicate. She then did the design work to attract the buyer to the book. Susan’s work was a major contributor to the success of my award-winning, best-selling book. I had no idea of the complexity of effort necessary to take the content of the book I had written and turn it into a finished published product. I am so grateful that I contacted Susan Shankin to provide the design services and production of my book. Susan had the combination of expertise, skill, and personality to help me avoid a variety of problems. Her cover design of the book is powerful and effective. More importantly, Susan paid attention to my vision for how I wanted the pages laid out. She balanced the reality of publishing constraints and my sometimes, outrageous ideas! The end result is a book that is striking both inside and out. Susan’s hard work and final touches have produced a book for which I am very proud.”
Bill Blokker, Ed.D
Achieve Beyond Expectations: Master the 5 Intangibles to Make the Impossible, Possible!
“A friend recommended Susan Shankin to help me finish and publish my first book, The Making of Mr. Mac, a memoir. I was unfamiliar with the publishing world. I will always be grateful for her sound and steady advice because she listened carefully to understand my original concept of the book and was ultimately creative with her own outstanding contributions to the look and its overall feel from cover to cover. She possessed a positive, cheerful, optimism—a part of her nature which is so helpful to the creative process which can be daunting. Whether this is your first time or you a seasoned author, Susan Shankin of Precocity Press will be professional and highly effective in making the publishing process easier and more successful. I couldn’t be happier with this highly skilled professional.”
James Maechling
The Making of Mr. Mac
