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USING MY WORD POWER: Advocating for a More Civilized Society
Use Your Word Power to Bring About Positive Change. You will be amazed!
Being a journalist has not been my formal training nor my profession. Becoming an advocate journalist has been my calling.
As circumstances, issues, and forces—social, political, economic—occur all around me, push against me, I have chosen to push back. I have consciously entered and continue to enter the fray, using the power of words—the only real and lasting weapon I have.
The writings of an advocate journalist always boil down, directly, or indirectly, intentionally, or unintentionally, to a plea—imploring the reader or listener to think, to consider the facts, the circumstances, the workable solutions for the issues at hand, and when appropriate and necessary to engage in action.
In carrying out my calling to be an advocate journalist, I have primarily addressed some of the enduring issues of our times. But also, I could not ignore the temporal—pressing issues of the hour. Most of my writings during the last four decades have maintained their relevancy, fulfilling a needed voice.
As a collection, the selected commentaries are snapshots of history and are included because of their timeliness and timelessness.
During the past four decades, they have been written for a large radio station, a major metropolitan daily newspaper, community newspapers, and currently online.
This is Book I, Ethics and Values, of three books in the Real Advocacy Journalism® series. Book II focuses on Justice and Equality. Book III addresses Patriotism and Politics.
Being a journalist has not been my formal training nor my profession. Becoming an advocate journalist has been my calling.
As circumstances, issues, and forces—social, political, economic—occur all around me, push against me, I have chosen to push back. I have consciously entered and continue to enter the fray, using the power of words—the only real and lasting weapon I have.
The writings of an advocate journalist always boil down, directly, or indirectly, intentionally, or unintentionally, to a plea—imploring the reader or listener to think, to consider the facts, the circumstances, the workable solutions for the issues at hand, and when appropriate and necessary to engage in action.
In carrying out my calling to be an advocate journalist, I have primarily addressed some of the enduring issues of our times. But also, I could not ignore the temporal—pressing issues of the hour. Most of my writings during the last four decades have maintained their relevancy, fulfilling a needed voice.
As a collection, the selected commentaries are snapshots of history and are included because of their timeliness and timelessness.
During the past four decades, they have been written for a large radio station, a major metropolitan daily newspaper, community newspapers, and currently online.
This is Book I, Ethics and Values, of three books in the Real Advocacy Journalism® series. Book II focuses on Justice and Equality. Book III addresses Patriotism and Politics.
276 pages, Paperback
Published August 28, 2022
4 people want to read
About the author
Janice S. Ellis
4 books54 followersJanice S. Ellis, M.A., M.A., Ph.D., is an award-winning author of five books described below.
A native daughter of Mississippi, she grew up and came of age during the height of the Civil Rights Movement and the Women’s Liberation Movement. Born and reared on a small cotton farm, she was influenced by two converging forces that would set the course of her life.
The first was the fear and terror felt by Blacks because they sought to exercise the right to vote along with other rights and privileges afforded whites. She became determined to take a stand and not accept the limits of that farm life nor the strictures of oppressive racial segregation and gender inequality. She aspired to have and achieve a different kind of life—not only for herself but for others.
The second was her love of books, the power of words, and her exposure to renowned columnists Eric Sevareid of The CBS Evening News with Walter Cronkite and Walter Lippmann, whose column appeared for more than three decades in over 250 major newspapers across the United States and another 50 newspapers in Europe.
It was the study of Lippmann’s books and commentary that inspired her to complete a Master of Arts degree in Communication Arts, a second Master of Arts degree in Political Science, and a Doctor of Philosophy in Communication Arts, all from the University of Wisconsin. It was during her course of study that her unwavering belief—the belief that the wise use of words is what advances a good society—was solidified.
Dr. Ellis has been an executive throughout her career, first in government, then in a large pharmaceutical company, later as President and CEO of a marketing firm, and as President and CEO of a bi-state non-profit child advocacy agency. Along with those positions, she has been writing columns for nearly four decades on race, politics, education, and other social issues for a major metropolitan daily newspaper, The Kansas City Star; a major metropolitan business journal, Milwaukee Business Journal; and for community newspapers The Milwaukee Courier, The Kansas City Globe, and The Kansas City Call. She wrote radio commentary for two years for one of the largest ABC radio affiliates in Wisconsin and subsequently wrote and delivered a two-minute spot on the two largest Arbitron-rated radio stations in the Greater Kansas City area. She has also written for several national trade publications, focusing on healthcare and the pharmaceutical industry.
Currently, she is a columnist for the Missouri Independent. She has her own website, JaniceSEllis.com, which houses a collection of her writings and where she continues to write commentary.
Dr. Ellis is an award-winning author of five books. Her most recent book, USING MY WORD POWER: Advocating for a More Civilized Society, Book II: Patriotism and Politics (2024) is receiving great editorial and customer reviews.
From Liberty to Magnolia: In Search of the American Dream – New Edition (2023), received great editorial reviews and continues to receive great customer reviews. It also won the 2023 Foreword Indies Book of the Year Award Silver Medal Award.
USING MY WORD POWER: Advocating for a More Civilized Society (2022), has received great editorial reviews and was a First-Place winner of the Nellie Bly Nonfiction Journalism Award. It also won the Midwest Independent Publishers Association Book Award in the Nonfiction – Social Science/Political Science/Culture category.
Shaping Public Opinion: How Real Advocacy Journalism™ Should Be Practiced (2021) won the Nellie Bly Nonfiction Journalism Award and the Gold Medal Award for nonfiction books from the Non-Fiction Author Association. It has received great national editorial reviews and continues to receive great customer reviews.
The first edition of From Liberty to Magnolia: In Search of the American Dream (2018) has received several national and international awards since its initial release. Among them: Independent Press Award for R
A native daughter of Mississippi, she grew up and came of age during the height of the Civil Rights Movement and the Women’s Liberation Movement. Born and reared on a small cotton farm, she was influenced by two converging forces that would set the course of her life.
The first was the fear and terror felt by Blacks because they sought to exercise the right to vote along with other rights and privileges afforded whites. She became determined to take a stand and not accept the limits of that farm life nor the strictures of oppressive racial segregation and gender inequality. She aspired to have and achieve a different kind of life—not only for herself but for others.
The second was her love of books, the power of words, and her exposure to renowned columnists Eric Sevareid of The CBS Evening News with Walter Cronkite and Walter Lippmann, whose column appeared for more than three decades in over 250 major newspapers across the United States and another 50 newspapers in Europe.
It was the study of Lippmann’s books and commentary that inspired her to complete a Master of Arts degree in Communication Arts, a second Master of Arts degree in Political Science, and a Doctor of Philosophy in Communication Arts, all from the University of Wisconsin. It was during her course of study that her unwavering belief—the belief that the wise use of words is what advances a good society—was solidified.
Dr. Ellis has been an executive throughout her career, first in government, then in a large pharmaceutical company, later as President and CEO of a marketing firm, and as President and CEO of a bi-state non-profit child advocacy agency. Along with those positions, she has been writing columns for nearly four decades on race, politics, education, and other social issues for a major metropolitan daily newspaper, The Kansas City Star; a major metropolitan business journal, Milwaukee Business Journal; and for community newspapers The Milwaukee Courier, The Kansas City Globe, and The Kansas City Call. She wrote radio commentary for two years for one of the largest ABC radio affiliates in Wisconsin and subsequently wrote and delivered a two-minute spot on the two largest Arbitron-rated radio stations in the Greater Kansas City area. She has also written for several national trade publications, focusing on healthcare and the pharmaceutical industry.
Currently, she is a columnist for the Missouri Independent. She has her own website, JaniceSEllis.com, which houses a collection of her writings and where she continues to write commentary.
Dr. Ellis is an award-winning author of five books. Her most recent book, USING MY WORD POWER: Advocating for a More Civilized Society, Book II: Patriotism and Politics (2024) is receiving great editorial and customer reviews.
From Liberty to Magnolia: In Search of the American Dream – New Edition (2023), received great editorial reviews and continues to receive great customer reviews. It also won the 2023 Foreword Indies Book of the Year Award Silver Medal Award.
USING MY WORD POWER: Advocating for a More Civilized Society (2022), has received great editorial reviews and was a First-Place winner of the Nellie Bly Nonfiction Journalism Award. It also won the Midwest Independent Publishers Association Book Award in the Nonfiction – Social Science/Political Science/Culture category.
Shaping Public Opinion: How Real Advocacy Journalism™ Should Be Practiced (2021) won the Nellie Bly Nonfiction Journalism Award and the Gold Medal Award for nonfiction books from the Non-Fiction Author Association. It has received great national editorial reviews and continues to receive great customer reviews.
The first edition of From Liberty to Magnolia: In Search of the American Dream (2018) has received several national and international awards since its initial release. Among them: Independent Press Award for R
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 35 reviews
May 30, 2023
The potency of words as the ultimate tool for change...
Using My Word Power by award-winning author Janice S. Ellis Ph.D. is a thought-provoking and inspiring book that champions the influential role of advocacy journalism in shaping a better society. With a firm belief in the power of words, Ellis asserts that our words and actions hold the key to advancing a more civilized and just world. The book not only provides valuable wisdom for budding journalists but also serves as a guide for individuals seeking to make a meaningful impact in society. Ellis highlights the significance of responsible journalism and the crucial role it plays in upholding democracy. Her skillful blend of passion, objective facts, and persuasive rhetoric underscores the potency of words as the ultimate tool for change.
Throughout the book, Ellis demonstrates her mastery of advocacy journalism, employing a balanced approach that encourages critical thinking and meaningful dialogue. By emphasizing the enduring value of words, she invites readers to consider their own capacity for making a positive difference. Whether you aspire to become an advocate journalist or simply seek inspiration to contribute meaningfully to the world, this book is a must-read that will leave you informed, enlightened, and motivated to effect positive change through your own words and actions. Highly recommended.
Using My Word Power by award-winning author Janice S. Ellis Ph.D. is a thought-provoking and inspiring book that champions the influential role of advocacy journalism in shaping a better society. With a firm belief in the power of words, Ellis asserts that our words and actions hold the key to advancing a more civilized and just world. The book not only provides valuable wisdom for budding journalists but also serves as a guide for individuals seeking to make a meaningful impact in society. Ellis highlights the significance of responsible journalism and the crucial role it plays in upholding democracy. Her skillful blend of passion, objective facts, and persuasive rhetoric underscores the potency of words as the ultimate tool for change.
Throughout the book, Ellis demonstrates her mastery of advocacy journalism, employing a balanced approach that encourages critical thinking and meaningful dialogue. By emphasizing the enduring value of words, she invites readers to consider their own capacity for making a positive difference. Whether you aspire to become an advocate journalist or simply seek inspiration to contribute meaningfully to the world, this book is a must-read that will leave you informed, enlightened, and motivated to effect positive change through your own words and actions. Highly recommended.
July 11, 2024
A book to be conscious of your decisions.
If you are a person who, regardless of your profession, is passionate about social, political, cultural and highly important issues, then this book is definitely for you. Although the book is very much about the journalist and how he uses words and his communications to edify, I believe it is also an invitation to not misinformation.
The book questions how the role of the journalist has had such a great social impact, whether positive or negative, how what he communicates can change the course of history. This book is that typical book that you didn't know you needed, today with the upcoming presidential elections in several countries you question yourself about the importance of telling stories but above all to tell them edifying, informing and helping to create history together.
In the political context we are in right now, if you want to be aware of your decisions as a citizen I invite you to read this kind of books.
If you are a person who, regardless of your profession, is passionate about social, political, cultural and highly important issues, then this book is definitely for you. Although the book is very much about the journalist and how he uses words and his communications to edify, I believe it is also an invitation to not misinformation.
The book questions how the role of the journalist has had such a great social impact, whether positive or negative, how what he communicates can change the course of history. This book is that typical book that you didn't know you needed, today with the upcoming presidential elections in several countries you question yourself about the importance of telling stories but above all to tell them edifying, informing and helping to create history together.
In the political context we are in right now, if you want to be aware of your decisions as a citizen I invite you to read this kind of books.
September 14, 2025
This is a compendium of blog posts, essays, op-eds, and broadcasts by the author. These focus mainly on issues facing Americans today: institutional racism, gun violence, inequities in healthcare, misinformation in the media, political corruption, the evils of capitalism…the list goes on. Each issue is important and deserves a much deeper dive, but are presented as short think pieces. Questions are posed and never answered. For a work of non-fiction, especially since the author expresses a concern over fake news, I would have liked to have seen the author present sources alongside their facts and figures. This was done rarely and with no footnotes in sight. As condemnation of racism and racial slurs were a common theme throughout the book, I was astounded how often the author casually referred to those of Asian decent as “yellow.” Copyediting problems aside (which were legion) this book did not live up to the promise of its potential.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
September 20, 2022
Janice S. Ellis, PhD has written the book USING MY WORD POWER. She's an advocate journalist which means that she implores people to look into issues and to listen with their ears wide open and their heads clear. She makes great points about how the world today has many pressing concerns of the hour and enduring issues of our times. The book is a compilation of several articles or commentaries that have been put there due to the timeliness and timelessness of them. It's a book that tries to get you to open your eyes and educates you on how you can possibly take charge on several pressing matters that are around you, or even around the world. It teaches you to think for not only yourself but for everybody else, allowing us to create a more civilized society that comes up with proper solutions for proper problems.
June 28, 2024
Advocacy journalism is a calling for a select few. It seldom pays much, but it’s not about money. It’s about becoming a voice for the voiceless, the individuals who need it the most. The author of this book knows more than her fair share about this kind of journalism. Her quest to uncover the hardest truths and to make the public aware of them has led her through many adventures, some of them of an unpleasant nature. She wouldn’t have it any other way, though.
Spending some time in her world can be sobering. That doesn’t mean what she has reported on over the past four decades is any less important. Quite the contrary: it is because she holds a mirror up to society’s dark underbelly that she is such a vital figure on this journalistic path that is so seldom trodden. This is a collection of her most compelling works. It is timely, hard hitting, and never any less than powerful.
Spending some time in her world can be sobering. That doesn’t mean what she has reported on over the past four decades is any less important. Quite the contrary: it is because she holds a mirror up to society’s dark underbelly that she is such a vital figure on this journalistic path that is so seldom trodden. This is a collection of her most compelling works. It is timely, hard hitting, and never any less than powerful.
July 15, 2024
Janice S. Ellis PhD converged all her professional life into this book and made it a wonderful and unique read. Along all her life as a journalist, she has undergone many and different situations, from success to hard struggles as a black woman. Along the book, I became aware of her professional life in the most deep and personal way. The pace of the book gives a wonderful frame to the narrative, I could easily follow the events and better yet, I could sense every moment. As I kept on reading, I became more interested in what Janice has to say, that is why I am reading the following books as well. This is book I, Ethics and Values, of three books in the Real Advocacy Journalism series. Book II focuses on Justice and Equality. Book III addresses Patriotism and Politics. I will gladly add them to my bookshelf.
September 14, 2025
USING MY WORD POWER is a rallying cry. The author, though not a trained journalist, brings the fierce heart of an advocate to every page. Each essay feels like a reflection and a challenge, inviting readers to think more deeply, act more justly, and speak more boldly. There’s passion here, but also clarity and grounded wisdom. Readers may find themselves nodding, highlighting, and rethinking assumptions as they explore timeless ethical issues alongside urgent, present-day concerns. Some moments are raw, others poetic, but all are purposeful. The use of real-world examples and decades of writing gives the work a lived-in authority. This isn’t just commentary, it’s conscience in motion. For those craving meaningful dialogue in an often-noisy world, this book offers a voice of reason, purpose, and hope. A must-read for seekers of truth and change.
July 3, 2024
Using My Word Power: Advocating for a More Civilized Society is a book written by Janice S. Ellis, and it is an important reminder that the misuse of vocabulary in nowadays society can be a real problem, especially when it comes to societal issues. Advocating for the right crowd and their real problems can be very hard to do, yet Ellis's writing is poetic and beautiful to read. Urging the reader to stand up and take action is key to a better civilization where everyone feels seen and included. It's difficult but possible!
The author's personal insight makes this a much more valuable read and her morals are inspiring! This is definitely a book that changes people's minds! I highly recommend it.
The author's personal insight makes this a much more valuable read and her morals are inspiring! This is definitely a book that changes people's minds! I highly recommend it.
July 3, 2024
An interesting outlook
“Using my word power” has a positive and changing outlook about life inside a community.
PhD Janice Ellis is an advocate journalist who has penned columns and articles that depict social, economic and political issues of the society. She gives a look with her advocate lenses- with tolerance, respect and change of eyes- to illustrate people the importance of thinking, working out solutions and being part of the community. It’s a thought- provoking, current book worth the while. I liked the way each written text flowed while I was reading, allowing me to think about the words written and connected with my thoughts. It’s a well-written, interesting and engaging read that will enlighten readers about justice and equality. I thoroughly recommend it.
“Using my word power” has a positive and changing outlook about life inside a community.
PhD Janice Ellis is an advocate journalist who has penned columns and articles that depict social, economic and political issues of the society. She gives a look with her advocate lenses- with tolerance, respect and change of eyes- to illustrate people the importance of thinking, working out solutions and being part of the community. It’s a thought- provoking, current book worth the while. I liked the way each written text flowed while I was reading, allowing me to think about the words written and connected with my thoughts. It’s a well-written, interesting and engaging read that will enlighten readers about justice and equality. I thoroughly recommend it.
July 5, 2024
Incredible read
Journalism can be very hard at times, but it can also be very rewarding. Author Janice S Ellis tells us about her success and struggles in her career and how she has dedicated to use her journalism skills to help and be a testament to the strong and important relevance of advocacy journalism.
Throughout this book, the reader will go along the author's experience growing up and difficult time for the black community in an ever evolving America. I have read a previous book from this author, and I was thrilled to read another one of her works. Her writing style is marvellous and easy flowing. I highly recommend this book as it allows the reader to expand their mind based on a real life experience.
Journalism can be very hard at times, but it can also be very rewarding. Author Janice S Ellis tells us about her success and struggles in her career and how she has dedicated to use her journalism skills to help and be a testament to the strong and important relevance of advocacy journalism.
Throughout this book, the reader will go along the author's experience growing up and difficult time for the black community in an ever evolving America. I have read a previous book from this author, and I was thrilled to read another one of her works. Her writing style is marvellous and easy flowing. I highly recommend this book as it allows the reader to expand their mind based on a real life experience.
July 9, 2024
This powerful book by Janice S. Ellis is a work that definitely inspires. It highlights the power of words to positively impact not only ourselves, but also society. I came across this book at a time in my life when I began to understand the power of words. This is, without a doubt, a work full of wisdom that everyone should read. Ellis proposes that effective communication and the conscious and constant use of language can create a docile and pleasant environment for all, resulting in a more civilized and just coexistence. The thread of the book is completely clear and understandable, each page is full of wisdom, analysis and strategies to start creating a completely positive environment through words. I enjoyed the book very much and I hope everyone has the opportunity to read it.
September 11, 2025
Great read
I dare say that “Using my word power” is one of the most interesting books that I’ve read since it touches on current affairs, history and the importance of learning constantly. Janice S. Ellis PhD is a remarkable advocate journalist who shares her writings and ideas about topics related to politics, social or economic issues. The idea is to help readers and encourage them to keep informed about present issues and to take an active role when communicating with people.
I’m very into reading books that invite people to have a personal opinion, to speak out loud and never feel intimidated when expressing it. Janice has come up with an engaging, interesting and powerful book. I highly recommend it.
I dare say that “Using my word power” is one of the most interesting books that I’ve read since it touches on current affairs, history and the importance of learning constantly. Janice S. Ellis PhD is a remarkable advocate journalist who shares her writings and ideas about topics related to politics, social or economic issues. The idea is to help readers and encourage them to keep informed about present issues and to take an active role when communicating with people.
I’m very into reading books that invite people to have a personal opinion, to speak out loud and never feel intimidated when expressing it. Janice has come up with an engaging, interesting and powerful book. I highly recommend it.
September 12, 2025
Reading Using My Word Power by Janice S. Ellis felt inspiring and personal. The book speaks about ethics, values, and how our words can create a more fair and civilized society. I liked how the author connects big ideas with everyday life. For example, she shows that speaking with honesty and respect can change a conversation, and maybe even a community. While reading, I remembered a time when I stayed quiet during a disagreement at work. Later, I wished I had used my words to explain my view calmly. This book made me think that silence can also be a choice, but speaking with kindness is a stronger one. I recommend this book for anyone who wants to reflect on life and use language with more purpose.
September 27, 2022
Words do matter.
Someone great once said that the pen is mightier than the sword and that is what Janice S. Ellis, PhD has done. Dr. Ellis is trying to change the world one article at a time through her various published works through time and now she has compiled all of them in one place. “USING MY WORD POWER: Advocating for a More Civilized Society” is a compilation of her articles in one book. Her articles were published in journals and other publications. Well written and most definitely compelling. They are short but definitely powerful and thought provoking. I liked her article about wearing masks during the pandemic. It was really simple but it's exactly what needs to be said.
Someone great once said that the pen is mightier than the sword and that is what Janice S. Ellis, PhD has done. Dr. Ellis is trying to change the world one article at a time through her various published works through time and now she has compiled all of them in one place. “USING MY WORD POWER: Advocating for a More Civilized Society” is a compilation of her articles in one book. Her articles were published in journals and other publications. Well written and most definitely compelling. They are short but definitely powerful and thought provoking. I liked her article about wearing masks during the pandemic. It was really simple but it's exactly what needs to be said.
April 5, 2024
Great book.
''Using My Word Power'' is the first book of the Real Advocacy Journalism series. This book offers readers deep insight into what advocacy journalism is and how it can change lives. Written by Janice S. Ellis, this fantastic book will surprise you with a different reading that explores the way journalism should be. You will love this reading and you will learn a lot from this brave woman who, through her words, has changed so many things. This book has valuable information that everyone should read. I cannot wait to read the second book. I highly recommend this book to those who care about social problems and want to change society.
''Using My Word Power'' is the first book of the Real Advocacy Journalism series. This book offers readers deep insight into what advocacy journalism is and how it can change lives. Written by Janice S. Ellis, this fantastic book will surprise you with a different reading that explores the way journalism should be. You will love this reading and you will learn a lot from this brave woman who, through her words, has changed so many things. This book has valuable information that everyone should read. I cannot wait to read the second book. I highly recommend this book to those who care about social problems and want to change society.
April 6, 2024
Janice S. Ellis is the author of this interesting read, where she presents a series of comments and publications made by herself, where she delves into or simply gives her opinion on various topics; from guns, crimes and police brutality to holidays in general.
As I went through these pages, I realized that the topics she writes about are of general interest and that makes the reader broaden their knowledge, or at least learn about another opinion.
I think it is an enriching read, since it promotes general knowledge, and at the same time, the author can express her opinion on various topics. I certainly recommend it and encourage readers to visit its pages.
As I went through these pages, I realized that the topics she writes about are of general interest and that makes the reader broaden their knowledge, or at least learn about another opinion.
I think it is an enriching read, since it promotes general knowledge, and at the same time, the author can express her opinion on various topics. I certainly recommend it and encourage readers to visit its pages.
April 7, 2024
This is a wonderful collection of articles written by author Ellis over the years, all focused on the importance of togetherness in turbulent times. Her narrative style left me with a good taste. It is interesting how she takes the reader on a reflective and comforting journey. I must say that I greatly enjoyed reading it, finding comfort in her words and a renewed perspective on unity in adversity.
I would recommend Using My Word Power to anyone seeking clarity and serenity in a chaotic world and to those who value the importance of staying together in difficult times. It is definitely a read that will not go unnoticed in the lives of readers.
I would recommend Using My Word Power to anyone seeking clarity and serenity in a chaotic world and to those who value the importance of staying together in difficult times. It is definitely a read that will not go unnoticed in the lives of readers.
April 9, 2024
It was a blast to read this book
This book comes from a very personal place. It became evident with every page I read. Being black and a women in America is definitely not a sweet cup of tea. The author surely had to go through a lot, to get to where she is at now. This book made me respect her so much. The values and morals she transmits in these pages are just beautiful and crucial for a better world. This, I think, is at the gist of this book. Ellis wants to put in her work to make this world a better and more equal place. Her goals are respectable and admirable. It was a blast to read this book and I enjoyed every second of it.
This book comes from a very personal place. It became evident with every page I read. Being black and a women in America is definitely not a sweet cup of tea. The author surely had to go through a lot, to get to where she is at now. This book made me respect her so much. The values and morals she transmits in these pages are just beautiful and crucial for a better world. This, I think, is at the gist of this book. Ellis wants to put in her work to make this world a better and more equal place. Her goals are respectable and admirable. It was a blast to read this book and I enjoyed every second of it.
July 1, 2024
In a time where honest journalism is becoming more important than ever, Using My Word Power by Janice S. Ellis is a timely and interesting book on advocacy journalism. Ellis draws on her experience in the field of advocacy journalism and striving for social change to point out problems in modern-day American society and demonstrate how our words can be used for good. As someone who is not American myself, I found this an interesting reflection on US society. Whether the book resonates with you or not may depend a lot on what side of the US political spectrum you are on, but for me this was a fascinating read and I am giving this book five out of five stars.
July 2, 2024
Using My Word Power revealed the importance of the narrative in any journalism career. Janice Ellis shares her path, the values she carried that made her articles relevant and meaningful, and also how she could maintain an impeccable reputation over the years.
I bought this book because I believe in the power of words, especially in journalism, it can change the course of an investigation and inform society what's going on in the world. It also has a very destructive power if used incorrectly or influenced by the interests of others, so I think it is a challenging profession that should be conducted with ethics.
Overall, I enjoyed this book a lot, definitely recommended.
I bought this book because I believe in the power of words, especially in journalism, it can change the course of an investigation and inform society what's going on in the world. It also has a very destructive power if used incorrectly or influenced by the interests of others, so I think it is a challenging profession that should be conducted with ethics.
Overall, I enjoyed this book a lot, definitely recommended.
July 3, 2024
Very interesting!
This book invites readers to have great and deep reflection about the power of words. It shows how it is possible to change the world through words and communication. Janice S. Ellis, the author, inevitably expresses her political position but I think it is a great read regardless of whether you agree with her or not.
The book is based on the author's years of experience and extensive knowledge, and all this can be seen in each chapter. I liked it because it is sincere, brave and firm no matter how hard the message is. Using My Word Power made me think and to be more aware of what I say. It is without a doubt a very interesting read!
This book invites readers to have great and deep reflection about the power of words. It shows how it is possible to change the world through words and communication. Janice S. Ellis, the author, inevitably expresses her political position but I think it is a great read regardless of whether you agree with her or not.
The book is based on the author's years of experience and extensive knowledge, and all this can be seen in each chapter. I liked it because it is sincere, brave and firm no matter how hard the message is. Using My Word Power made me think and to be more aware of what I say. It is without a doubt a very interesting read!
July 8, 2024
Opinion pieces
"Advocacy Journalism" is the theme of this book, a new term for me but one that I think is not only interesting but also important in today's society. I enjoyed reading the essays by this author on a variety of topics, topics that I suppose are controversial, with most people falling squarely on one side of the other. I think this was a great read, I liked how the author poses opinions on these issues with some more food for thought for the reader. I suppose if you don't already agree with the opinions presented here you aren't going to want to read this book, though it would be a good idea to read the views of "the other side."
"Advocacy Journalism" is the theme of this book, a new term for me but one that I think is not only interesting but also important in today's society. I enjoyed reading the essays by this author on a variety of topics, topics that I suppose are controversial, with most people falling squarely on one side of the other. I think this was a great read, I liked how the author poses opinions on these issues with some more food for thought for the reader. I suppose if you don't already agree with the opinions presented here you aren't going to want to read this book, though it would be a good idea to read the views of "the other side."
July 10, 2024
How many times have we heard that words have great power? They can build or destroy and in a second change everything. I always try to be conscious of the things I say and the way I do it; however, many times, it is difficult and we lose control. That is why the title of this book could not seem more appropriate. It is fascinating the respectful way in which it bases its teachings.
Janice is a talented author who puts all her vast experience and wisdom at the reader's fingertips so that the immersive experience of the narrative is unique. This is an invaluable read for those who want to become aware of the way the world is being spoken to.
Janice is a talented author who puts all her vast experience and wisdom at the reader's fingertips so that the immersive experience of the narrative is unique. This is an invaluable read for those who want to become aware of the way the world is being spoken to.
July 10, 2024
If you are passionate about journalism stories, this book is for you. In this book, the author shows us how journalism can be very difficult and, on the other hand, it can be very rewarding. That's why the author tells us everything! From the successes in this world as well as the setbacks that he presented, we are presented with experiences from his childhood to the most difficult time for the black community in the country. I really recommend this book and the way it is written, and I also feel that it is a call to not give up even when the situation becomes very difficult or difficult for us.
July 11, 2024
What an interesting book, I really enjoyed reading a little of the author's story, who found her way to be a journalist advocate, who seeks to make a change in humanity, to generate an effect with each of her words and I think the focus she wants to give to her book is the same, the power we have with our words and how we should use them to do good. This first instance talks about ethics and values, two topics that I think we have all heard all our lives, but that each person has their own way of exposing it, in this case very focused on the stories, in inviting us to think, to make a judgment and how they are applied.
July 12, 2024
A great choice for casual readers interested in commentary about important social, political and economic issues. The writing style is very engaging and accessible, so it makes some complex topics very easy to understand and relect on them. You can tell the pasion and advocacy of the author in this book by the powerful voice for positive change.
This is a good book to go deep on understanding very key issues in society that are happening and try to make a difference, to work for it.
For anyone interested in gaining more knowledge of important topics, this is the book to read, but also to every young adult reader with the motivation to be the change.
This is a good book to go deep on understanding very key issues in society that are happening and try to make a difference, to work for it.
For anyone interested in gaining more knowledge of important topics, this is the book to read, but also to every young adult reader with the motivation to be the change.
September 9, 2025
I just read this book and it reminded me of a time when a friend and I had an argument. At first, we both spoke with anger and nothing improved. Later, I decided to write her a small message, choosing my words with care. That note changed everything because we talked calmly and repaired our friendship.
Ellis shows in this book how words are not just sounds, but tools that can build or destroy. The writing is simple and motivating, full of examples of how respectful speech can make society more civil. It left me thinking about how I want to use my own words with more kindness and responsibility.
Ellis shows in this book how words are not just sounds, but tools that can build or destroy. The writing is simple and motivating, full of examples of how respectful speech can make society more civil. It left me thinking about how I want to use my own words with more kindness and responsibility.
September 11, 2025
USING MY WORD POWER is a momentous book that illustrates just how powerful words can be. It is the first book in the Real Advocacy Journalism® series – the second one being about justice and equality and the third book being about patriotism and politics. This book addresses ethics and values. The author makes many convincing points. None could do so better than Janice S. Ellis PhD – journalist and author of this series. With her eloquent writing style and convincing arguments, this book got me thinking in new ways. I learnt about using my words and deeds in a manner that is powerful and positive at the same time. This is a brilliant book that I will re-read.
September 25, 2022
This is a collection of various articles by the same author, a sort of a best-of compilation of her work. The articles don't have the same topic or overarching theme, in my opinion, but the book still isn't a disjointed mess. That's because the author has her own distinct writing style and a voice that connects all of these articles. It's a good book to pick up and read and then leave it without fear that you'll lose the thread when you come back to it. The writing is inspiring and confident, so overall; I liked it a lot.
September 20, 2022
The author has taken select essays which she has published in different journals and publications and compiled them in a book form to motivate her readers to be agents of change and take constructive actions to bring change in the society.
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