Guideposts, the non-profit organization dedicated to providing hope, encouragement, and inspiration to millions across America and the world, today made available via a free download The Power of Hope: 7 Inspirational Stories of People Rediscovering Faith, Hope and Love.

In difficult times, how do others find hope?

Here are some facts about writing a book that you should remember.

Books require someone to read the book. If you don’t have a group of readers you don’t have anything except a bunch of paper with type on it. You have to find the group you will sell most of the books to and concentrate on them.

The Association of Independent Authors presents a clear vision of the future in publishing – independence is the preferred, and first choice for all authors. To achieve this, the AiA engenders a culture of excellence, teamwork and professionalism in a supportive community environment.

“The publishing industry is undergoing monumental changes,” says spokesperson Melanie Walsh, “including an ongoing exponential growth in e-book sales, a change in book buying trends, and a new generation of readers who want everything now on their reading device.”

The AiA plans to be at the forefront of this change, representing authors who choose independence over traditional publishing.

Chicago resident and native Brian Vaszily, editor in chief of one of the world’s most popular personal growth websites, IntenseExperiences.com, founder of the new international “1 World, 1 Book” club online, internationally renowned life coach, and author of multiple bestselling books, has launched The Personal Growth Chicago Book Club.

The book club is free to everyone living in and around Chicago interested in reading and meeting live to discuss today’s most exceptional books that promote personal and professional growth.