ARPress

The 2025 ALA Annual Conference & Exhibition, held from June 26–30 in Philadelphia, was a powerful, high-energy gathering of over 14,000 librarians, educators, authors, and exhibitors from around the world. Taking place at the Pennsylvania Convention Center, the event pulsed with a sense of urgency and purpose. At its heart were timely conversations about intellectual freedom, democracy, and the evolving role of libraries in society, topics that felt especially resonant in the current political climate.

At the conference, ARPress made a memorable impression on attendees with a vibrant and inviting booth that celebrated the power of storytelling. Nestled among hundreds of publishers, their exhibit stood out for its emphasis on bestselling titles and authentic, diverse voices. Visitors were drawn to ARPress’ carefully curated collection, which spanned memoirs, self-help, children’s literature, and thought-provoking nonfiction. What truly brought the exhibit to life were the personal connections, librarians, educators, and book lovers engaged in meaningful conversations with ARPress representatives.

Among the most talked-about titles were inspirational memoirs that offered hope and perspective, empowering self-help books that resonated with both personal and professional audiences, and heartwarming stories that emphasized kindness, resilience, and diversity. Each of these reflected ARPress’ mission to publish meaningful stories that matter, books that stay with readers long after the final page.

The energy at ALA 2025 was unmistakable. From panels on intellectual freedom to networking across the bustling exhibition floor, the conference offered a platform for publishers like ARPress to connect directly with those who bring books into communities: librarians. For ARPress, the highlight wasn’t just showcasing bestselling books, it was building lasting relationships with the people who champion them in schools, libraries, and bookstores nationwide.

Amid the innovation, the emotional core of the conference remained clear: librarians are not just keepers of books, they’re frontline defenders of access, free speech, and community well-being. Whether through panels on book bans, hands-on zine workshops, or impromptu hallway conversations, the spirit of collaboration and resilience was ever-present.

From the cheesesteak-fueled streets of Philadelphia to the packed session rooms, ALA 2025 was more than a conference, it was a reaffirmation of why libraries matter. And with the 150th anniversary celebration already on the horizon for 2026 in Chicago, the momentum is only growing.

Looking ahead, ARPress is building on the momentum from Philadelphia and is set to appear at several other international book fairs throughout 2025. With an expanding catalog and a deepening connection to its readers, ARPress continues to bring powerful stories into the hands of those who need them most. ALA 2025 was more than just an exhibit, it was a celebration of books, voices, and the shared love of reading.

“Polyxena: A Story of Troy” by H. Allenger is a historical fiction novel that intertwines themes of forbidden love, self-discovery, and the complexities of fate against the backdrop of the legendary Trojan War. The narrative follows Polyxena, the daughter of King Priam of Troy, as she faces dire circumstances following the fall of her city. This gripping narrative follows her journey of self-discovery amidst the chaos of war and forbidden love.

Author H. Allenger grew up in Montana and graduated from high school in Spokane, WA. He earned his BA in political science from Eastern Washington University of Arkansas through its overseas extension program while stationed at Ramstein Air Base in Germany. After seven years as an officer in the US Army and thirty-one years working for the Seattle School District, he retired fully in 2008 to pursue his true passions, which include archaeology, art, history, mythology, and writing. He presently resides in Seattle, Washington, and enjoys traveling the world.

The tale begins with Polyxena embarking on a mission to gain the support of the Amazon warriors against the Greeks. Her encounter with the Amazons—women who thrive in a society independent of men—challenges her ingrained beliefs about gender roles. This transformative experience profoundly reshapes her worldview, forcing her to confront her desires and the harsh realities of her situation.

The narrative delves into profound themes, such as the tension between free will and destiny. Polyxena’s journey is marked by moral dilemmas, challenging her to question whether her tragic fate is shaped by divine intervention or her own decisions. This philosophical depth invites readers to reflect on the nature of choice and consequence, enriching the narrative’s complexity.

In conclusion, Polyxena by H. Allenger is a beautifully woven tale that explores the complexities of love and identity against the backdrop of one of history’s most famous conflicts. Through Polyxena’s eyes, readers are invited on a poignant journey that captures the human experience amidst the timeless themes of war, duty, and longing.