What is the blue vase? asks author Peter Kyne towards the end of The Go-Getter, his classic, inspirational parable about one mans near impossible quest to secure a blue vase his boss demands to prove his resourcefulness and loyalty. Just as Bill Peck, the hero of the story, has to face his fears, his weaknesses, his insecurities, and inconvenient life circumstances in order to prevail, we also face obstacles like this one every day. Since we all have blue vases, how do we overcome our fears, limitations and difficult life circumstances? Sometimes, you dont know what your blue vase is; other times, you know what it is but may be paralyzed by fear. Counselors are here to help you identify your blue vase and help stir up your inner go-getter to develop a smart strategy to not just locate that blue vase but to chase that one down and identify and go for many others as well. Go-getters dont just read about success. They are men and women of action. Now get up and go get it!

In The Go-Getter, Bill Peck, a war veteran, persuades Cappy Ricks, the influential founder of the Rick's Logging & Lumbering Company, to let him prove himself by selling skunk wood in odd lengths-a job that everyone knows can only lead to failure. When Peck goes on to beat his quota, Rick hands Peck the ultimate opportunity and the ultimate test: the quest for an elusive blue vase. Drawing on such classic values as honesty, determination, passion, and responsibility, Peck overcomes nearly insurmountable obstacles to find the vase and launch hia career as a successful manager. In a time when jobs are tight and managers are too busy for mentoring, how can you maintain positive energy, take control of your career, and prepare yourself to ace the tests that come your way? By applying the timeless lessons in this compulsively readable parable, employees at all levels can learn to rekindle the go-getter in themselves.

Former SNL writer and comedic rising star Julio Torres takes readers on a journey through the lives and intimate dramas of some of the unsung shapes of our time in this picture book inspired by his HBO special My Favorite Shapes. Shapes. You’ve heard of them. You might have even interacted with a few. But do you really know them? From plucky Plunger, who wishes to defy his shape and become a beautiful vase, to other household objects with dreams of a life beyond their predestined roles, I Want to Be a Vase takes readers on an essential and visually stunning journey through the lives and intimate dramas of often-overlooked household appliances.

A little dog struggles with fibbing in this pitch perfect picture book that simply, humorously, and honestly tells the truth about lying. Have you ever told a lie? A fib? A whopper? A falsehood? A fabrication? Well, when a little dog accidentally breaks a vase, he certainly does! He keeps shifting the blame: First he says it was an elephant, but no he meant a mouse. Wait a minute—did he say mouse? Make that a crow, a sheep, a hippo—anyone but him. Will his family discover what really happened? Jeffrey Turner’s signature style of simple words and strong, vivid graphics resonates with everyone who has ever struggled with admitting the truth!

Essential reading for any would-be entrepreneur Blueprint to Business is the ultimate guide to becoming a successful entrepreneur. Bestselling author and CEO Mike Alden puts aside the rainbows and sunshine, gets real about what it takes to 'make it,' and gives you the real-world guidance you need to hear. Through anecdotes and advice, he shares his experiences along with those of other top founders and entrepreneurs to give you a realistic picture of what it takes to build a business. It's a bit of tough love, a healthy dose of reality, and a tremendously motivating guide to striking out on your own; from motivation and commitment to business licenses and the IRS, this guide is your personal handbook for the biggest adventure of your career. So you want to start a business: how much are you willing to commit in terms of time, money, and energy? How do you plan to bring in customers? What will set you apart from the crowd? What will convince clients to come to you rather than your competitor with an established track record? These questions must be answered before you even begin planning—and then, you have to make that canyon-sized leap from planning to doing. This book guides you through the early stages with practical advice from a real-world perspective. Turn 'dreams' into goals, and goals into reality Discover just what it takes to build a successful business Dig into the paperwork and legal/regulatory requirements Adjust your expectations to reflect your abilities and willingness to commit Starting a business could be the best thing you've ever done—or it could be the worst. Mitigate the risk by setting yourself up for success from the very beginning with the invaluable advice in Blueprint to Business. Praise for Blueprint to Business "I've had the opportunity to work directly with Michael Alden on his children's book. His business know how and ability to get things done is unparalleled.” —Naren Aryal, CEO Mascot Books. "As an entrepreneur and author myself, I would recommend Blueprint to Business to anyone who is in business or looking to start a company. Michael Alden's no nonsense approach is much needed for anyone who wants the real truth about the life of an entrepreneur." —Ken Kupchik, author of The Sales Survival Handbook Cold Calls, Commissions, and Caffeine Addiction The Real Truth About Life in Sales "Michael Alden's story is truly inspirational. He has seen some extremely difficult times and has overcome extraordinary odds along his journey. He harnessed what he learned even as a young child to achieve great business success. The lessons in Blueprint to Business not only help those in business but it is for anyone who wants more out of life.” —June Archer, author of YES! Every day can be a good day: The Keys to success that lead to an Amazing life “As a young entrepreneur, I have found that truly successful people help and teach others. Michael Alden has taken the time to help me with my business and my book. His experience is undeniable and I would recommend Blueprint to Business to any entrepreneur who wants to learn from someone who has done great things and continues to.” —Casey Adams, social media influencer and author of Rise of The Young: How To Turn Your Negative Situation Into A Positive Outcome, and Build A Successful Personal Brand “Being an entrepreneur has its challenges. Michael Alden shares his business experiences to help others succeed. His advice and enthusiasm is directed towards teaching and leading through example. If you are looking to succeed in business this book is a must read!