Life Without Lisa Wins 2006 Statewide Award

August 19, 2006
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
Contact Karla Wheeler: 239-513-9907


Grief Support Book, Life Without Lisa, Named Winner in 2006 President's Book Awards from the Florida Publishers Association in Recognition of Excellence in Publishing

The Florida Publishers Association recently honored the best books in 11 categories at the annual President's Book Awards handed out in Naples, FL, on August 19, 2006.

Life Without Lisa, by Naples resident Richard Ballo ($12.95; published 2004 by Naples publisher Quality of Life Publishing Co.; ISBN: 0-9675532-4-5; available at bookstores everywhere) was named the winner in the "President's Pick" category.

Life Without Lisa is a heart-centered, totally candid and vulnerable account of the author's healing journey after his beloved 38-year-old wife died of cancer leaving him alone to parent their young sons. His words speak to every one of us who is touched by the death of a loved one. A true pageturner, this gentle grief support book offers practical insights into tragic loss while providing inspiration and ultimate hope.

Life Without Lisa was praised by FPA President Frank Gromling for achieving its intent of serving as a valuable resource to anyone experiencing grief. "I believe in the goodness of this book, in its ability to help people in significant ways." Gromling says he found the book compelling. "The way Life Without Lisa is written," Gromling notes, "made me feel like I was experiencing everything with the author, which is quite different" from many other self-help books.

Judged by a three-person panel of book industry experts, all entries have been scrutinized by individuals with demonstrated success in book concept, design, production and marketing.

About the President's Book Awards: Each year the Florida Publishers Association seeks to recognize the best books produced by its member publishers and authors in the prior two-year period. Open only to FPA members, the President's Book Awards are presented to those books deemed to be the best in their respective genres from the large number of books submitted.

About Florida Publishers Association (FPA): FPA is the only statewide non-profit trade association representing independent publishers, authors, editors, illustrators and others involved in book publishing in Florida. For over 25 years FPA has fulfilled its mission of educating and supporting the book publishing industry, while taking a strong stance on first amendment issues.

About Quality of Life Publishing Co: Based in Naples, FL, this niche publisher specializes in books and newsletters that help ease the way for patients and families dealing with terminal illness and loss. The firm's gentle grief support books and booklets bring much-needed comfort to anyone grieving the loss of someone dear.

For more information, contact Karla Wheeler at Quality of Life Publishing Co., 239-513-9907. For a complete listing of finalists and to view the award winners in each of the categories, check out the FPA website at FLbookpub.org.