MSI Press Blog

  Every Arbor Day, we’re invited to pause and appreciate the trees that shade our lives, clean our air, and yes—once gave us the pages on which every classic novel and beloved children’s book was printed. For centuries, the magic of storytelling has been inseparable from the rustle of paper. But today, the publishing world is shifting—and it might just be good news for the forests. In the past decade, we’ve seen a noticeable rise in digital and audio formats. Ebooks have become standard for travelers and night owls alike. Audiobooks—now a $5 billion industry—are consumed during commutes, workouts, and daily chores. More people are reading (or listening) without ever turning a page. What does this mean for trees? While paper still has a firm place in publishing—especially for picture books, art books, and collectors—many publishers are adjusting their print runs and embracing print-on-demand to avoid waste. This shift not only reduces excess inventory but also decreases the need for...

  In honor of Arbor Day, we pull a lesson from 365 Teacher Secrets for Parents by Cindy Alder and Patti Trombly ---  #226 Plant Parts A weed is no more than a flower in disguise. ~James Lowell                Children can easily recognize plants. Your child can probably identify a variety of them, but can she identify all of the basic parts? Here are ten fun activities to try with your child (and whole family!) that will help make a plant’s structure understandable in hands-on ways:   1.      Discuss the function of each part. The best way to do this is by observing a plant your child is familiar with either in or around your home. Don’t forget that trees are plants, too, just on a larger scale. Begin by asking your child what she thinks each part would do by observing it. Here’s a guide: a.      Leaf: makes food with help from the sun. b.   ...

  Excerpt from Chapter 6 I didn’t convert for marriage, but I think my husband’s soul was meant to convert with mine. The day that I met Travis, I was 16 years old and had just been elected all-school treasurer of our public high school. I was wearing khakis and a white short-sleeved blouse from Hollister to look “professional,” and my hair—which my Conair straightener pulverized every morning—laid totally flat against my head. He was a year older than I and had been elected school president. I never saw boys my age wearing suits and ties, so I was enamored with his sharp outfit. He had choppy, light brown hair and nerdy glasses. He reached out and shook my hand. I decided on the spot that I was in love with him.   Alas, Travis had a girlfriend already, so I spent the rest of high school being hopelessly in love with him (as in, the “crying while listening to Taylor Swift” kind of love). Sometimes, I pretended that I needed a lift to various student government events even thou...