Happy Winter Solstice!

Hello CK Westbrook readers,

I love the winter solstice, not because it’s the shortest and darkest day of the year, but because it means the days will start to get longer. And it’s my birthday.

It has been a strange year. It’s been terrible and stressful in so many ways for many people—virtual hugs to everyone who has suffered this year in unnecessary ways. Unfortunately, everything is political, no matter how much we wish it were not true. But today, to celebrate my latest trip around the sun, I will focus on a few wonderful things from this past year and feel grateful.

I love live music and have seen many concerts, including Patty Smith, Rise Against, Dropkick Murphys, Lincoln Park, Joan Jett, Mellisa Etheridge, and Papa Roach. I kept my travel in the US and had the pleasure of exploring many states. I am now an Institute of Integrative Nutrition certified Health Coach, and I hope to help people become healthier and happier in 2026. I participated in many book and author events. I spent time with friends and family. Hiked up mountains, kayaked with sea otters, watched amazing sunsets, and set a few PRs for weightlifting. I read many fantastic books and accomplished my 2025 New Year's resolution by reading two books each month. I did not, however, do an unassisted pull-up, yet….

I also submitted two manuscripts to my publisher for publication, wrote a children’s book, and am currently working on my first non-fiction book. These have all been fantastic distractions.

I hope you all have a wonderful holiday season full of fun distractions!

Current Events

Just release the damn files already. The victims deserve justice.

Podcast:

I had a blast on Drinking with Authors with Nick Savage! We discussed aliens, gun control, politics, space exploration, and science fiction. We tackled the question, “If given the chance, would you go to Mars?” I sure hope Elon Musk doesn't listen to this interview.

Check it out - Drinking With Authors | CK Westbrook

Podcast and Book Review Combo:

I had the pleasure of interviewing Dr. Karyne Messina and Dr. Harry Gill about their book, "Disconnected Together: A Guide to Reclaiming Connection in a Digital World," on the New Books Network.

It presents the extent to which phones and screens are harming people and society at every stage of life – and provides solutions and toolkits to mitigate the damage. Very timely in light of Australia's new law banning children from most social platforms.

You can watch the interview here: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=o41ouEi-pPY

This is my review of the book:

In a world increasingly shaped by algorithms and artificial intelligence, this book is an essential and urgent antidote. It provides a clear and uncompromising examination of the psychological toll our screens have already taken, laying bare the human cost of a society that prioritizes digital engagement over genuine connection. The analysis of the erosion of empathy and the rise of digital paranoia shows that we are losing a vital part of our shared humanity. The authors’ deep dive into how constant stimulation warps our minds and separates us from our authentic selves is a necessary and timely warning.

The book is informative, terrifying, and reassuring. Informative because it breaks down the phases of life, from infancy to senior, and how screen time negatively impacts them, using well-explained and relatable science and psychology. It’s terrifying, in its use of real-world examples, such as when it explores a baby's difficulties with competing with a phone for a parent's critically important attention, or a teenager being encouraged to hurt themselves while scrolling, or a senior falling for an online scam. Yet, it’s reassuring as it provides advice, examples, and clear steps to break the destructive behavior at all ages.

P.S. Should you be interested, below are some books that fall under similar genres to “The Impact Series” – sci-fi, speculative, environmental, and suspenseful. Happy reading!

I can’t express my deep gratitude to my readers enough. Thank you for sharing this fantastic adventure with me!

CK

Feel free to email me with any comments or questions. I would love to hear from you! Ckwestbrook.author@gmail.com

Holiday Season Starts!