You Need to Read This…

Sandy Clements
Nov 3
3 min read

Who are the women in your life? Daughter. Sister. Niece. Aunt. Mother. Grandmother. Neighbor. Teacher. Wife. Sister-in-law. What are their names?

Now, let’s talk about something that could save their lives—and yours: the annual mammogram. Think you’re too young or too old? In this month’s newsletter, I’ll tell you why age doesn’t matter.

We’ve got a lot to unpack today: books, upcoming events, and discovering your POWER to CHANGE. So, grab your coffee (or tea!) and let’s get started.

📚 BOOK(S) OF THE MONTH SPOTLIGHT 🎀

A year ago, at the WriterCon Conference in Oklahoma City, I met Shelley Malicote-Stutchman, author of Peek-a-Boob.

We were sitting next to each other at the awards ceremony, and her story stuck with me. Her book has earned multiple awards and offers an honest, captivating look inside her breast cancer journey. It’s equal parts educational, inspiring, and deeply personal. Whether you’ve faced breast cancer or not, this is a wonderful read and a meaningful gift. Learn more at Shelley’s website.

In Other Reads…

I finished James by Percival Everett. Wow. Everywhere I turned, people said it was amazing, and I wholeheartedly agree. James is storytelling come alive, a bold reimagining of The Adventures of Huckleberry Finn. (In My Opinion, not suitable for children.)

I also read The Absolutely True Diary of a Part-Time Indian by Sherman Alexie, following fourteen-year-old Arnold “Junior” Spirit as he navigates life on and off the Spokane Indian Reservation. The book tackles tough topics—bullying, racism, alcoholism—but also celebrates hope, identity, and love. I recommend it for older teens and parents alike.

My current read: Stolen Prey by John Sandford. I’ve heard John speak at several conferences and finally picked up one of his books. It’s a gritty, fast-paced thriller with plenty of procedural detail. I’ll give you my rating next month.

What are you reading? Email me at sandy@sandyclements.com.

🏃‍♀️ 5K for Breast Cancer Awareness 🎀

My fitness buddies—Renee and Brenda—and I participated in a 5K this month in Blue Springs, Missouri. The event was organized by the unstoppable Mindy Bishop. She is, among other things, a teacher, motivator, and a breast cancer survivor.

The morning of the walk, I listened to stories that reminded me how breast cancer can strike at any age.

• Ashley, diagnosed at 29.• My mom, diagnosed at 86 after a lifetime of good health.• My friend Brenda, diagnosed at 44 after a routine mammogram.

My Takeaway:

Get your annual mammogram. Just do it.• Encourage every woman you love to do the same.• If something feels off, trust your gut and push for answers.

The funds raised from the event went to the Stephanie Vest Foundation, which helps families bridge financial gaps due to a cancer crisis.

Learn more or donate at www.stephanievest.com

Special thanks to Mindy Bishop and women like her—fighting the good fight, educating others, and living out what it means to be a “pink sister.”

🙌 Change – You Have the Power!

Do you want to change your day, your life, and maybe even the world around you? Here are four secrets to lasting change:

Consistent. Actions. Anyone who’s changed their life’s direction or outlook did it one small, consistent action at a time.
Surround Yourself with Growth-Minded People. Those doing nothing want company. Those growing want you to grow with them. Choose your circle wisely.
Enter the Doors that Open. Stop trying to break down closed doors. Recognize dead ends and head another direction. Simply put: stay open to new opportunities.
Take Ownership of the Simple Things. Think positively. Eat better. Walk away from what drains you. Smile. Breathe. Enjoy the moment.

Isn’t it empowering to know you can change your life? Any time. Any day.

The following is a quote posted by April Jackson, aka friend, #1 promoter and seller of my book, and proprietor of The Rusty Sugar, an amazing décor & gift store located in Nashville, Indiana. (Learn more about her store at: www.facebook.com/TheRustySugar.)

✈️ WHERE AM I GOING NEXT?

I’ll be at Lit & Libations: Great Gatsby Edition! Join me and other authors for a night of literary fun and fancy drinks on Saturday, November 8, 2025, from 6–9 PM. Step back into the roaring 1920s for an unforgettable evening of literature, laughter, and sparkle.

📍 The Co-op at Shoal Creek

6816 North Church Road #101

Pleasant Valley, MO 64068

🎟 Tickets: https://tinyurl.com/yespuycb. I’d love to see you there!!!