The Escapologist nominated for Independent Business Award in Yorkshire Choice Awards 2025

Business News

The Escapologist, the innovative escape room and entertainment venues found in Xscape Castleford and White Rose Leeds, has been shortlisted for an Independent Business Award at the 2025 Yorkshire Choice Awards.Known for its immersive escape room experiences, creative mixology offerings, and steampunk-inspired aesthetic, The Escapologist has become a standout business in the region, earning a loyal following among families, friends, and corporate groups.Recognising Local Business ExcellenceThe Yorkshire Choice Awards celebrate outstanding businesses and individuals across the region, highlighting those who make a meaningful impact in their communities. The Escapologist’s nomination recognises its commitment to delivering exceptional immersive entertainment experiences.Yorkshire Choice Awards 2025Ellie and Olly McClaren, co-founders of The Escapologist, expressed their gratitude for the recognition. “Being nominated for this award is a reflection of the incredible support from our customers and the hard work of our dedicated team. We’re thrilled to be part of an event that celebrates the best of Yorkshire businesses”.Public Voting Now OpenThe winners of the Yorkshire Choice Awards are decided by public vote, and The Escapologist is calling on its supporters to help them secure the win.To cast your vote for The Escapologist in the Independent Business Award category, visit www.yorkshirechoiceawards.co.uk/votehere. Voting is open until March 7, with the winners set to be announced at a ceremony on June 6.Yorkshire Choice Awards 2025 Independent Business of the Year NominationA Growing Success StorySince its launch, The Escapologist has grown significantly, opening multiple locations and introducing innovative offerings such as downloadable escape games and mixology classes for both adults and children. The business has also been celebrated for its inclusivity, and recent steps to improve accessibility through a dedicated ambassador program.The Escapologist’s unique combination of immersive storytelling, imaginative cocktails, and community-focused initiatives has made it a firm favourite in Yorkshire’s entertainment landscape.

Man facing 29 charges following arrest at N.S. business

Business News

A Nova Scotia man is facing 29 charges after he was arrested at a business in Conway on Saturday.

In a Wednesday news release, police say they responded to a report that man wanted in connection to a theft investigation was inside a business on Highway 303 around 7:15 p.m.

During the arrest, police say the man told them he had a firearm in a bag he was wearing. Officers found the firearm, which was loaded, and seized it.

According to police, 34-year-old Harry Bell of Weymouth is now facing a total of 29 charges, including:

 possession of a weapon for a dangerous purpose

 carrying a concealed weapon

 unsafe storage of firearm

Bell was held in custody and had his first court appearance on Monday.

For more Nova Scotia news, visit our dedicated provincial page.

Petrie Dish: Dr. Peter Hotez talks about anti-science activism, antisemitism, and RFK Jr.

Science and Health

The city of Nuremberg is a powerful, historic symbol of both Hitler’s rise and the Nazi demise. It was a city roiling with Nazi fervor while under Hitler’s control, and the site of tightly choreographed rallies that became the subject of ignominious propaganda films.Then, as the Allies sought to bring those who committed crimes against humanity in World War II to justice, all eyes turned to Nuremberg again, when it became the site of the Nuremberg trials.Modern references to Nuremberg tend to get your attention, especially if you’re a vaccine scientist who has experienced years of unrelenting attacks during the COVID pandemic. Especially if you’re a Jewish vaccine scientist who has made it a personal mission to fight medical misinformation.That is a good description of Dr. Peter Hotez, who, in early December, was in his comfort zone, standing in front of a screen illuminated by a PowerPoint slide and talking to a room full of people. The audience was rapt, being taught by this professor of pediatrics and molecular virology at Baylor College of Medicine, who is also the dean of the National School of Tropical Medicine, co-director of the Texas Children’s Hospital Center for Vaccine Development, and the author of several books, including The Deadly Rise of Anti-Science: A Scientist’s Warning. But this crowd was not made up of medical students, and this was not an academic lecture. Hotez was speaking at the Jewish Federation of San Antonio for the Myron B. Zinn Memorial Lecture, and he was talking about some of his recent experiences with antisemitism. And Nuremberg.“One idea that’s out there is that there’s going to be a day of reckoning for all the COVID scientists when we’re going to be tried and executed after a tribunal at Nuremberg,” Hotez explained, “They’re calling it Nuremberg 2.0.”Hotez shared the contents of an email he’d received. “So this fellow says, ‘Peter, 75 years ago people like you were tried, convicted, hung by the neck until dead. There’s a lawyer’s committee right now collecting names of people to be indicted for Nuremberg crimes, so I’m turning your name over to the prosecutor’s legal team.’”The writer closed the email with a reference to Star Wars, writing “May the force be with you.”“So I have that going for me,” Hotez laughed, but later admitted that it’s not funny. Anti-science rhetoric can turn deadly, and too often it takes on the stain of antisemitism. “That’s a very dark aspect,” Hotez said about those who have anti-science and those who have antisemitic beliefs. “If you think of them as two circles of the Venn diagram, they’re not totally overlapping, but there is some overlap, no doubt about it.”Still, Hotez said he was surprised when their antisemitism came for him, though he admits he shouldn’t have been. “I’m a scientist. I’m a vaccine scientist, and I’m a Jewish vaccine scientist,” he said. “I’m the trifecta.”Anti-science activism became a part of Hotez’s daily reality back in 2018 when he wrote and published a book called Vaccines Did Not Cause Rachel’s Autism. Hotez’s now-grown daughter Rachel was diagnosed with autism when she was 19 months old back in 1994, and the book details his experience as an autism dad and vaccine scientist. It also outlines the evidence against the contention that vaccines cause autism. This made Hotez a lightning rod for the anxiety and even anger of some in the anti-vaccine movement, including President-elect Trump’s nominee for the Secretary of the Department of Health and Human Services, Robert F. Kennedy, Jr.

Megan Mendoza

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ReutersRobert F. Kennedy Jr. speaks at the Tucker Carlson Live Tour finale at Desert Diamond Arena on Oct. 31, 2024, in Glendale.

Kennedy has called Hotez the anti-vaccine movement’s “OG villain,” Hotez told the crowd at the Jewish Federation.“And I’m so old and square I had to google that,” he said. “What that means is the ‘original gangster villain.’”Kennedy is an environmental lawyer who began proclaiming in the early 2000s that vaccines — specifically the measles, mumps, and rubella (MMR) vaccine — cause autism, writing a since-retracted article for Rolling Stone and Salon.com in 2005. Still, President-elect Trump has given Kennedy the go-ahead to “get to the bottom of” vaccines and autism.“Well, we’ve gotten to the bottom of vaccines and autism,” Hotez said, “and we know there’s no link. This has been investigated now for 20 years, and we have a massive volume of published scientific papers in the peer-reviewed literature and some of the best journals.”The increase in cases, Hotez said, is probably down to several things, including the broadening of the diagnostic criteria that catches more people in the diagnostic net. Also, schools now offer support to children with autism, which gives parents an incentive to overcome their discomfort with the potential stigma of a diagnosis and seek out an assessment for their child.The greatest relative increases in autism diagnosis rates are happening among adults between the ages of 26 to 34. Adults were not diagnosed in large numbers with autism a generation ago, so that could account for some of the increase.There also may be an environmental component to the increase in cases, Hotez said.“In fact, back in 2017 when I was speaking to Robert F. Kennedy Jr., I said, ‘Bobby, you’re an environmental lawyer. Why aren’t you looking into this?”It’s conceivable that Kennedy has looked into it. That may be why the president-elect keeps repeating that Kennedy can do anything he wants — including rewriting dietary guidelines for Americans and reigning in ultra-processed foods — but he cannot go near oil and gas. Fossil fuels.A growing body of evidence suggests that fossil fuels are making people sick. Specifically, particulate pollution might have a role to play in the rising number of autism cases in the United States. Pediatrician Debra Hendrickson, author of The Air They Breathe, said in a recent episode of Petrie Dish that the fossil fuel industry is a source — directly and indirectly — for much of that pollution. The prospect of having someone who questions the safety and efficacy of vaccines in charge of the department that oversees agencies that research, develop, and approve vaccines is troubling to Hotez.“My worry is that we’re going to permanently disrupt our whole vaccine ecosystem,” Hotez explained, saying that while the federal government doesn’t make the rules about childhood vaccines, he does think it could have a chilling effect on state legislatures. “I’m worried they’re going to lift all school-based vaccine requirements, and that won’t be good.”

Joey Palacios

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TPR Dr. Peter Hotez talked about his fight against medical misinformation as a guest on TPR’s The Source.

Trump’s nominees to head the Food and Drug Administration, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, and the National Institutes of Health also have controversial views on vaccine safety or vaccine mandates. Speaker of the House Mike Johnson has called them “disruptors,” saying they will shake up the status quo. Hotez took issue with that description.“That’s a euphemism,” he said. “They’re not disruptors. They’re destroyers. I worry about the destruction of our whole childhood vaccination system. If that happens, it could take us decades to recover.”With the CDC reporting the first human death from H5N1 bird flu in the United States this week, these concerns take on additional significance, Hotez said.“We’ve got some big picture worries that are going to have to be taken by this new administration very seriously,” he said. “If it’s not going to be RFK, the next tier down has to take it seriously and be empowered to do it.”

Who is Arun Vijay? Actor who replaced Suriya in Bala directorial movie Vanangaan

Arts & Culture, Film & TV

Arun Vijay is a widely known actor in Tamil cinema who started off his career in the industry in 1995. The actor is the son of veteran actor Vijayakumar and his first wife Muthukannu. Growing up being inspired by films and taking a keen interest in acting by watching his father’s work, Arun Vijay was getting offers in films from the 10th grade. However, due to his father’s insistence, the actor completed his schooling before taking on roles in cinema.

What Is Life Changing Money To You As A Business Owner

Business News

If you’re a small business owner thinking about selling your business, you’ve probably wondered what is life changing money and what it really means for you. Is it a specific number? A lifestyle upgrade? The freedom to start your next venture? Defining what’s truly life-changing is not only a fun exercise. It’s also the key to selling your business on your terms and getting the financial results you deserve.

The problem? Most business owners dream about selling, without first understanding what they want from the sale. They risk undervaluing their business, getting stuck in negotiations, or worse, walking away with regrets.

Let’s break down a step-by-step guide to define your version of life-changing money, align it with your business exit strategy, and ensure your sale sets you up for the future you want.

Step 1: Define What Is Life Changing Money To You

When you believe mainstream media, a life-changing exit is one that is worth hundreds of millions of dollars. But for most small business owners, $5 million is life-changing. For some of our clients, it’s $600,000. Or $1 million. Sometimes, life-changing means being able to cover the expenses of your current lifestyle. For others, it’s about funding the next chapter of your life. Whether you’re planning to retire, start a new business, or take a much-needed break, understanding what you need is the first step. Don’t let attention-grabbing media stories define what a big exit means to you.

Here are a few thoughts on what life-changing could mean to you:
Be Able to Retire and Maintain Your Lifestyle:

For some business owners, life-changing money means being able to step away from work entirely while keeping their current standard of living. This includes covering everyday expenses, funding healthcare needs, and having a safety net for unexpected costs.

Be Able to Retire and Expand Your Lifestyle:
For others, selling a business is an opportunity to elevate their lifestyle. This might include buying a second home in a dream location, purchasing a yacht to sail the world, or investing in experiences they’ve always dreamed of.

Too Young to Retire, Like most of our Clients? Redefine Life-Changing:
If you’re not ready to retire, life-changing money could mean paying off your mortgage, building a financial cushion, and having the resources to pursue a new masterpiece. Imagine taking two years off to focus on your young family or backpack the world before diving into your next big idea. For inspiration, explore How 3 Women Turned An Acquisition Into A Win For Everyone
Example: Martin, who owned a thriving public speaking training business, calculated that $1.8 million would give him the financial freedom he desired. This amount covered his mortgage, funded his retirement account, and left enough to invest in his new eco-friendly startup idea.
Related stories: How SaaS Founder Melissa Kwan Went From Burnout To Breakthrough
Step 2: Understand Your Business Valuation
Knowing what life-changing money means to you, is one thing. Knowing how much your business is worth, is quite another. Knowing your current business value is critical for setting realistic expectations.
Get an Accurate Valuation:
Work with a business broker or valuation expert to assess key metrics like revenue, profitability, and market demand. Discover 3 business valuation methods for small businesses.
Identify Value Drivers:
What makes your business attractive to buyers? Recurring revenue, strong customer relationships, and low owner dependency are big pluses. Learn more about how to maximize your business’s value before selling.
Bridge the Gap:
If your business valuation doesn’t match your life-changing number, welcome to the club! It’s time to create a strategic growth plan, with the goal to increase business value. Focus on increasing profits, cutting unnecessary costs, and optimizing operations. Read this article on How To Come To Terms With A Low Business Valuation
Pro Tip: Buyers love businesses with systems. Documenting workflows, training manuals, and processes can boost your valuation significantly.
Step 3: Boost Your Sellability
A sellable business is not only a profitable business, but also one that is appealing to the right buyer. This third step is where your preparation meets opportunity when it appears.
Reduce Owner Dependency:
Can your business run without you? Hire and train a strong leadership team to show buyers they’re investing in a self-sustaining operation.
Diversify Revenue Streams:
Businesses with predictable, recurring income—like subscriptions or retainer agreements—attract higher valuations.
Tidy Up Financials:
Ensure your books are clean, accurate, and up-to-date. Nothing scares off buyers faster than financial ambiguity.
Case Study: Lisa’s boutique finance agency initially valued at $750,000 was boosted to $1.1 million after she introduced a subscription-based service model and further delegated responsibilities to her team.
What to Do After Selling Your Business
Once the sale is finalized, many business owners feel an overwhelming urge to jump into the next chapter immediately. But we advise our clients to take a step back and prioritize three things first:
Celebrate:
Selling your business is a huge milestone. Host a dinner with loved ones, take a vacation, or treat yourself to something meaningful. Recognizing your achievement helps you transition with positivity.
Relax:
After years of hard work, give yourself permission to decompress. Whether it’s spending a few weeks by the beach, hiking in nature, or simply enjoying slower mornings at home, take this time to recharge.
Journal:
Reflect on your journey—what you learned, what you’re proud of, and what’s next. Journaling can help you clarify your goals for the future and ensure that your next steps align with your values and vision. Learn more about how to avoid depression after selling your business.
By pausing to celebrate, relax, and reflect, you’ll be better equipped to make thoughtful decisions about your next move—whether it’s starting a new venture, pursuing a passion project, or simply enjoying the fruits of your labor. Just make sure you know beforehand what is life changing money to you.

Goblin dreams, brilliant brains and an ocean finale by various authors – children’s book reviews –

Arts & Culture, Books

The Nightmares of Finnegan Quick by Larry HayesShare spooky thrills with a boy whose horrible nightmares have a bad habit of coming true, take a close-up look at the workings of the incredible human brain, set sail with the final adventure of an epic treasure-hunting, puzzle-solving ocean series, and join a little girl and her detective cat on their mission to find a missing birthday cake in a glittering New Year selection of children’s books.Age 10 plus:The Nightmares of Finnegan QuickLarry HayesBy night, Finnegan Quick has horrible nightmares… by day, they come TRUE! If the joyful warmth of Christmas has left you longing for some fun with a decidedly chillier edge, dive head first into this super-cool, thrill-a-minute adventure, first of a scintillating new series from Larry Hayes, a children’s author with a gift for writing both comedy and horror stories.With a plot that grips from start to finish – and plenty of wisecracks to leaven the creeps – this supernatural stunner delivers grans, grins, gore, ghosts and a rare kind of Goblin Dream that cannot help but capture you in its nightmare loop!Finn is haunted by nightmares. They are so bad that he’s terrified of going to sleep… because Finn’s dreams change the waking world, too. He has already lost his mum, his dad, his dog, even his shadow, and now they are coming for his gran, the only family he’s got left. But then a mysterious girl starts appearing in his dreams, helping Finn fight back against the creatures in his nightly adventures. And on the first day of the new term, she turns up at school, right there in real life, in the lunch queue! Cass tells Finn that she has come to solve the mystery of Finn’s missing parents and together with Finn’s geeky best friend Squid, they travel through the nightmare world, battling goblins, ghosts and zombies. Finn, Cass and Squid prove to be a sparky, wisecracking trio but even together, can they prove to be a match for the creatures of the night? If Finn is to save the people he cares about most, he has to remember the lesson his gran has been teaching him all his life. He must learn to face his fears… or be destroyed by them!Hayes, who has also performed stand-up comedy, was inspired to write this gorgeously ghostly series after a strange happening in an old, empty house in Ireland left him wondering what would happen if your dreams and nightmares came true.The result was Finnegan Quick, the star of dream adventures that are guaranteed to keep young horror fans turning the pages, turning the lights on, and tossing and turning until Finn’s next escapade, The Fate of Finnegan Quick, hits the shelves later this year!(Bloomsbury Children’s Books, paperback, £7.99)Age 12 plus:Explodapedia: The BrainBen Martynoga and Moose AllainScience and the natural world certainly aren’t boring when you take lessons from the fun-filled pages of an amazing exploding encyclopedia!Explodapedia is a unique non-fiction science series from David Fickling Books which delivers everything you need to know… one book at a time. This exciting, innovative approach takes key topics and presents them in a way that is hugely entertaining and readable, whilst still providing reliable, serious, in-depth information that will help readers gain a true and lasting understanding of crucial subjects.Packed with accessible and funny cartoon illustrations, and superb double-page spreads which seamlessly integrate facts and art, these touchstone books are the work of Dr Ben Martynoga, a neuroscientist and science writer, and artist and cartoonist Moose Allain.In Explodapedia: The Brain, this dynamic author and illustrator team take an inspiring look at the human brain which, we learn, is utterly unique. We have 180 billion brain cells which are constantly controlling our bodies, grappling with world-changing ideas and predicting the future. They keep us safe, curious and creative, whilst gifting us incredible powers of memory and bamboozling brilliant imaginations. Readers meet the pioneer scientists who first peered inside our skulls, explore how social media impacts our mental health, and delve into other amazing brains… think football-playing bees and octopuses which can talk with their skin!These richly detailed and thought-provoking books offer an appealing and fully accessible way to learn about fascinating discoveries as well as inspiring young readers to enjoy a lifelong love of science and nature. The perfect way to maximise your understanding of our miraculous minds!(David Fickling Books, paperback, £7.99)Age 9 plus:Alex Neptune, Dragon ChampionDavid Owen and George ErmosIndiana Jones meets Pirates of the Caribbean in the fifth and final ocean adventure of an epic treasure-hunting, puzzle-solving ocean series from David Owen, the exciting author whose YA debut novel, Panther, was longlisted for the Carnegie Medal. These thrilling, all-action and fun-filled Alex Neptune books were inspired by Owen’s self-confessed love for nail-biting heists, fantastical monsters and heartfelt friendships.Star of the show is Alex, the boy born with the power of the ocean in his hands, and here he crosses swords again with his arch enemy, Brineblood the pirate, who is back on the high seas with a dastardly plan… he’s going to steal every drop of sea magic and use it to raise an all-powerful monster from the bottom of the ocean. If Alex and his pals Zoey and Anil can’t stop him, the monster will flood the entire world. Teaming up with the water dragon, they set out in their home-made submarine to journey deep into places no human has been before. But they have one crucial and very scary problem… Alex has lost his magic. Can he still lead his crew to victory, or will Haven Bay – and the rest of the world – be lost for good?With the power of the sea at its centre, this final, fast-flowing story is awash with the weirdest cast of characters this side of the tide, eco themes that speak as loudly as the crashing of the waves in Haven Bay, and the fantastic illustrations of George Ermos. The perfect ending to a sparkling maritime odyssey which has become a must-read for all adventure lovers!(Usborne Publishing, paperback, £7.99)Age 7 plus:Bunny vs Monkey: Bunny Bonanza!Jamie SmartMonkey and the gang are on a hunt to find Bunny, after he mysteriously disappeared… on their search they’ll be bamboozled by Old Bunny, Neanderbunny, the mysterious Shadow Bunny and the always-confusing Not Bunny. Will they ever find their faithful friend? It’s a rollicking race in this cornucopia of chuckles!Buckle yourself in and get ready for an exciting rabbit rumble! Yes, Bunny and Monkey are back in their exhilarating remastered series which delivers all the comedy and chaos of the daffy duo’s helter-skelter world! This outrageously funny ninth book in the super-popular series features an abundance of bunnies, 216 pages of fast and furry-ous exuberant fun, and a draw-it-yourself activity.Bunny and Monkey are part of the Phoenix Presents series, published by David Fickling Books in partnership with The Phoenix comic, which goes from strength to strength. And much of that success is due to the genius of the extraordinarily talented illustrator Jamie Smart whose ingenious comic-strip Bunny vs Monkey books create giant waves of laughter across a sea of young readers.These manic, high-energy stories are perfectly created for fidgety readers who like their books to come with plenty of comic-strip illustrations and loads of snorts and sniggers. Madcap antics for your action kids!(David Fickling Books, paperback, £9.99)Age 7 plus:The Island Vet: Devil Bird IslandGill Lewis and Irina AvgustinovichA new school and a new island home far away from the big city have transformed Tia’s life… and when your mum is a vet anything can happen! Acclaimed, award-winning children’s author and former vet Gill Lewis works her special brand of animal magic on this inspirational illustrated Island Vet series which follows Tia and her mother’s exciting new life on Gull Haven Island. In this third conservation-themed adventure, a camping trip to count puffins on Devil Bird Island turns into a real drama for Tia and her friend Nat. First, they have to rescue a mysterious marine animal which has been caught in a fishing net off the coast and swept very far from home. Then, when it gets dark, they hear strange wailing and something white and ghostly flies at their tent. Safely back home, they unravel the mysteries of the previous night and learn some important lessons about how everyone on the planet needs to look out for the wildlife around them. Teamed with the beautifully emotive illustrations of Irina Avgustinovich, and published in Barrington Stoke’s trademark dyslexia-friendly format, this heartwarming and inspirational series is ideal for young animal lovers and is sure to delight readers of every age.(Barrington Stoke, paperback, £7.99)Age 6 plus:The Bold KittenHolly Webb and Sophy WilliamsMuch-loved author Holly Webb is enchanting young readers with the incredible 60th heartwarming adventure in her delightful Animal Stories series which has sold hundreds of thousands of copies since the first book hit the shelves in 2006. Webb has written over 100 adorable books for youngsters. In this new story, we meet nine-year-old Hana and her family who have recently fled Syria to stay with a boy called Oscar and his family in the UK. Hana is confused and lonely when she first arrives… she doesn’t speak much English and while her host family seem kind, she misses her friends back home. Then Oscar introduces her to the litter of cats his family are fostering, and Hana falls in love with the brave tortoiseshell kitten named Amal. The more time Hana spends with Amal, the more confident she begins to feel until her mum reveals that the kittens are ready to be adopted, including Amal. Hana doesn’t want her to go… can she find a way for them to stay together? Sophy Williams provides the gorgeous black and white illustrations for this beautifully created adventure which is guaranteed to capture the heart of any child who can’t resist the magic of animals!(Little Tiger Press, paperback, £6.99)Age 5 plus:The Moonlight Mystery Agency: The Birthday Cake ThiefVashti Hardy and Agnes SaccaniJoin a little girl and her detective cat on their mission to solve the mystery of a bionic unicorn’s missing birthday cake in the first book of a marvellously magical series from Blue Peter award-winning author Vashti Hardy and illustrator Agnes Saccani. The Birthday Cake Thief launches The Moonlight Mystery Agency series and is part of publisher Barrington Stoke’s super-readable Little Gems series which comes with a host of clever design and finishing techniques, like dyslexia-friendly fonts, to create easy-to-read, first chapter books in a format ideal for little hands. So meet Hana who has always longed to have a pet of her own. When a cat turns up at her bedroom window one night, she thinks her dream has come true… but Ace is no ordinary cat. He’s a detective cat who has come to invite Hana to work with the Moonlight Mystery Agency! Join Hana and Ace on their magical adventure to solve the mystery of Spark the bionic unicorn’s missing birthday cake. Wordsmith Hardy conjures up her world-building magic while Saccani’s illustrations bring the adorable characters and their fun-filled adventures to colourful life. Add on some spot-the-difference fun and a maze puzzle inside the front and back covers, and you have the perfect early reading package.(Barrington Stoke, paperback, £6.99)Age 3 plus:Amazing BabyAlison BrownAmazing babies are EVERYWHERE… and here’s a picture book that celebrates all the magic, mischief and heartwarming moments that a newborn brings. Talented author and illustrator Alison Brown – who won hearts with her gorgeous books Amazing Mum, Amazing Dad, Amazing Brother and Amazing Sister – turns the spotlight on babies with another of her super-cute picture books. Babies can be sleepy, noisy, adventurous, cuddly and so much more… and though they can be hard work, there’s nothing better than seeing them grow. From late nights and food fights to bathtime, nappy-changes and first steps, Brown’s beautifully illustrated and exuberant rhyming romp – starring a whole host of irresistible, relatable and quirky animal characters – is the ultimate celebration of bouncing babies and their unique identities, likes and dislikes. A joyful way to share new baby love… and the perfect gift for new parents!(Farshore, paperback, £7.99)Age 3 plus:A Midsummer Night’s Drama: A book at bedtime for little bards!Louie Stowell and Isobel LundieWelcome to a drama like no other at The Glade Theatre… a special place where budding bards can hone their skills and discover that all the world’s a stage! A Midsummer Night’s Drama is the first picture book in a brilliantly creative Shakesbearean Tales series from the top team of children’s author Louie Stowell and talented illustrator Isobel Lundie. These charming books, based on Shakespeare’s plays, introduce a cast of lovable animal characters and offer an endearing introduction to the world of theatre. So meet star of the show Bill Bear who loves staging plays with his friends in their woodland theatre. Bill writes brilliant plays for The Glade Theatre and his latest play is a huge success, but then the problems start… Bill’s brain is so busy that he just can’t sleep! Can his animal friends come up with a plan to get him off to sleep? Stowell’s comical and clever story encapsulates the ups and downs of dealing with drama of every kind while Lundie’s atmospheric and richly detailed illustrations bring The Glade Theatre to life. Parents everywhere will recognise the drama of getting an over-excited little bear off to dreamland while the funny and reassuring story addresses some of the big emotions felt by little ones. The second act can’t come soon enough!(Little Tiger Press, paperback, £7.99)Age 3 plus:Love is in the Little ThingsStella J Jones and Jane MasseyWhat better way to celebrate the little ways we show our love than a picture book brimming with warmth, kindness, friendship… and that very special ‘aaah’ factor? Love is in the Little Things – a heart-melting fusion of Stella J Jones’ beautiful words and Jane Massey’s emotive illustrations – is the perfect gift book for parents welcoming home a new baby or to share with a loved one on a memorable occasion. ‘Love is in the little things. A kiss, a smile, a cup of tea. Just me and you sitting quietly. A song, a hug, a helping hand that lifts us up so we can stand.’ Join Big and Small (a cuddly bear and an adorable young child) as they journey through the moments that make a relationship… from blowing bubbles in the bath and a goodnight kiss to saying a heartfelt ‘sorry’ after a fight. Perfectly created for adults to read and share with little ones, Jones’ gentle, rhythmic, reassuring narrative inspires expressions of love and emotion, all brought to life by Massey’s stunning artwork in enchanting pastel shades.(Little Tiger Press, paperback, £7.99)Age 3 plus:I Love You to the Moon and Back: All Year LongAmelia Hepworth and Tim WarnesAaah… gifts for don’t come more special and genuinely touching than this gorgeous picture book which celebrates the eternal and loving relationship between parent and child. This is the third book in this adorable series from top team author Amelia Hepworth and illustrator Tim Warnes and comes packed with the same beautiful words, heartfelt emotions and endearing illustrations. ‘I love to see the sun come up, and melt the winter snow. I love to see your wonder as the spring shoots start to grow.’ As the hope of spring turns into the warm days of midsummer, the story follows Big Bear and Little Bear who share their love and gratitude for one another across the seasons. Toddlers (and their parents) will love turning the pages of this uplifting celebration of love and togetherness which was tailor made for cuddling up close at bedtime!(Little Tiger Press, paperback, £7.99)Age 2 plus:Jana CurllEvery path is special. So choose yours… and keep going! Making choices and deciding on the right path in life might seem like a mountain to climb when you are a young child so help little ones to have confidence in both themselves and their choices with this beautiful, empowering picture book from Canadian author and illustrator Jana Curll. Featuring an adorable snail as the star player, My Path invites readers to follow the snail’s sparkly silver trail on every page and join its amazing adventures. Every morning, the little snail sets off on its chosen path. There are mountains to climb, rushing rivers to cross and, sometimes, when the path ahead seems impossible, it needs to ask for help. But as long as it feels like the right path, the determined snail keeps going! Youngsters will instantly recognise that the adventurous snail decides not to follow the crowd and is ready to face unexpected challenges. Filled with Curll’s stunning artwork, and the distinctive silver trail, this inspiring and joyful journey helps little ones understand that ANYONE can defy the odds and find their own unique way forward. So choose your own special path… and just keep going!(Nosy Crow, hardback, £12.99)Age 2 plus:The Bed BookSylvia Plath and Cindy WumeWhen is a bed not just any old bed? When it’s a bed dreamed up by Pulitzer Prize-winning poet Sylvia Plath! Written for American-born Plath’s own children, Frieda and Nicholas, this perfect bedtime read has been created in picture book form for the first time and exquisitely illustrated in full colour by Taiwan-based artist Cindy Wume. ‘A Tank Bed’s got cranks, And wheels and cogs, And levers to pull, If you’re stuck in bogs. Or a Jet-Propelled Bed, For visiting Mars, With mosquito nets, For the shooting stars.’ Beds come in all shapes and sizes, and need not be boring beds at all. There are submarine beds for nosing through water like a sardine, beds for fishing, and jet-propelled beds that take you all the way to the stars. Playful, comforting and bursting with imaginative power, this magical poem demonstrates Plath’s eye for imagery and arresting language, and is brought to life by the vibrant artwork of Wume who works in gouache, ink, dip-pen and coloured pencils. Bedtime wind-down doesn’t get better than this!(Faber Children’s Books, paperback, £7.99)Age 2 plus:The Girls Book of FriendshipLauren Ace and Jenny LøvlieFriends are for life, not just for childhood! Learn about the joy, fun and beauty of friendship in this heartwarming and gorgeously illustrated board book based on author Lauren Ace and illustrator Jenny Løvlie’s award-winning picture book The Girls. Back in 2019, this partnership’s extra special debut picture book packed a resonant and inspirational message for youngsters just embarking on the adventure of life and this new format carries the same empowering feminist message. ‘There is nothing better you can have than a good friend, and nothing better you can be. Friends are the family you choose for yourself.’ Follow four girls as they grow up together, celebrate their differences, and embrace kindness, resilience and the courage to forge their own unique paths in life. Løvlie’s lovingly imagined illustrations are fresh and appealing and are the perfect match for Ace’s warm and wise words, creating a stunning harmony between words and pictures, and a book sure to be treasured by readers of any age.(Little Tiger Press, board book, £7.99)Age one plus:Croc’s Cooking DayNicola KentCan you help a little Croc make some pancakes? Join Croc and his friends Bear and Hippo as they get hands-on with some cooking in the second adventure of an interactive Busy Chores for Little Paws board book series that lets tiny tots playact grown-up tasks. Youngsters will love lifting flaps, turning wheels and pulling and pushing sliders as they help the animals to measure flour and milk, add the egg, mix the ingredients and finally toss the pancakes! These charming and engaging hands-on introductions to familiar household chores are the work of award-winning author and illustrator Nicola Kent. So roll up your sleeves, turn up the gas and get your little ones ready for some ‘cracking’ fun!(Little Tiger Press, board book, £7.99)Continue Reading

Goblin dreams, brilliant brains and an ocean finale by various authors – children’s book reviews –

Arts & Culture, Books

The Nightmares of Finnegan Quick by Larry HayesShare spooky thrills with a boy whose horrible nightmares have a bad habit of coming true, take a close-up look at the workings of the incredible human brain, set sail with the final adventure of an epic treasure-hunting, puzzle-solving ocean series, and join a little girl and her detective cat on their mission to find a missing birthday cake in a glittering New Year selection of children’s books.Age 10 plus:The Nightmares of Finnegan QuickLarry HayesBy night, Finnegan Quick has horrible nightmares… by day, they come TRUE! If the joyful warmth of Christmas has left you longing for some fun with a decidedly chillier edge, dive head first into this super-cool, thrill-a-minute adventure, first of a scintillating new series from Larry Hayes, a children’s author with a gift for writing both comedy and horror stories.With a plot that grips from start to finish – and plenty of wisecracks to leaven the creeps – this supernatural stunner delivers grans, grins, gore, ghosts and a rare kind of Goblin Dream that cannot help but capture you in its nightmare loop!Finn is haunted by nightmares. They are so bad that he’s terrified of going to sleep… because Finn’s dreams change the waking world, too. He has already lost his mum, his dad, his dog, even his shadow, and now they are coming for his gran, the only family he’s got left. But then a mysterious girl starts appearing in his dreams, helping Finn fight back against the creatures in his nightly adventures. And on the first day of the new term, she turns up at school, right there in real life, in the lunch queue! Cass tells Finn that she has come to solve the mystery of Finn’s missing parents and together with Finn’s geeky best friend Squid, they travel through the nightmare world, battling goblins, ghosts and zombies. Finn, Cass and Squid prove to be a sparky, wisecracking trio but even together, can they prove to be a match for the creatures of the night? If Finn is to save the people he cares about most, he has to remember the lesson his gran has been teaching him all his life. He must learn to face his fears… or be destroyed by them!Hayes, who has also performed stand-up comedy, was inspired to write this gorgeously ghostly series after a strange happening in an old, empty house in Ireland left him wondering what would happen if your dreams and nightmares came true.The result was Finnegan Quick, the star of dream adventures that are guaranteed to keep young horror fans turning the pages, turning the lights on, and tossing and turning until Finn’s next escapade, The Fate of Finnegan Quick, hits the shelves later this year!(Bloomsbury Children’s Books, paperback, £7.99)Age 12 plus:Explodapedia: The BrainBen Martynoga and Moose AllainScience and the natural world certainly aren’t boring when you take lessons from the fun-filled pages of an amazing exploding encyclopedia!Explodapedia is a unique non-fiction science series from David Fickling Books which delivers everything you need to know… one book at a time. This exciting, innovative approach takes key topics and presents them in a way that is hugely entertaining and readable, whilst still providing reliable, serious, in-depth information that will help readers gain a true and lasting understanding of crucial subjects.Packed with accessible and funny cartoon illustrations, and superb double-page spreads which seamlessly integrate facts and art, these touchstone books are the work of Dr Ben Martynoga, a neuroscientist and science writer, and artist and cartoonist Moose Allain.In Explodapedia: The Brain, this dynamic author and illustrator team take an inspiring look at the human brain which, we learn, is utterly unique. We have 180 billion brain cells which are constantly controlling our bodies, grappling with world-changing ideas and predicting the future. They keep us safe, curious and creative, whilst gifting us incredible powers of memory and bamboozling brilliant imaginations. Readers meet the pioneer scientists who first peered inside our skulls, explore how social media impacts our mental health, and delve into other amazing brains… think football-playing bees and octopuses which can talk with their skin!These richly detailed and thought-provoking books offer an appealing and fully accessible way to learn about fascinating discoveries as well as inspiring young readers to enjoy a lifelong love of science and nature. The perfect way to maximise your understanding of our miraculous minds!(David Fickling Books, paperback, £7.99)Age 9 plus:Alex Neptune, Dragon ChampionDavid Owen and George ErmosIndiana Jones meets Pirates of the Caribbean in the fifth and final ocean adventure of an epic treasure-hunting, puzzle-solving ocean series from David Owen, the exciting author whose YA debut novel, Panther, was longlisted for the Carnegie Medal. These thrilling, all-action and fun-filled Alex Neptune books were inspired by Owen’s self-confessed love for nail-biting heists, fantastical monsters and heartfelt friendships.Star of the show is Alex, the boy born with the power of the ocean in his hands, and here he crosses swords again with his arch enemy, Brineblood the pirate, who is back on the high seas with a dastardly plan… he’s going to steal every drop of sea magic and use it to raise an all-powerful monster from the bottom of the ocean. If Alex and his pals Zoey and Anil can’t stop him, the monster will flood the entire world. Teaming up with the water dragon, they set out in their home-made submarine to journey deep into places no human has been before. But they have one crucial and very scary problem… Alex has lost his magic. Can he still lead his crew to victory, or will Haven Bay – and the rest of the world – be lost for good?With the power of the sea at its centre, this final, fast-flowing story is awash with the weirdest cast of characters this side of the tide, eco themes that speak as loudly as the crashing of the waves in Haven Bay, and the fantastic illustrations of George Ermos. The perfect ending to a sparkling maritime odyssey which has become a must-read for all adventure lovers!(Usborne Publishing, paperback, £7.99)Age 7 plus:Bunny vs Monkey: Bunny Bonanza!Jamie SmartMonkey and the gang are on a hunt to find Bunny, after he mysteriously disappeared… on their search they’ll be bamboozled by Old Bunny, Neanderbunny, the mysterious Shadow Bunny and the always-confusing Not Bunny. Will they ever find their faithful friend? It’s a rollicking race in this cornucopia of chuckles!Buckle yourself in and get ready for an exciting rabbit rumble! Yes, Bunny and Monkey are back in their exhilarating remastered series which delivers all the comedy and chaos of the daffy duo’s helter-skelter world! This outrageously funny ninth book in the super-popular series features an abundance of bunnies, 216 pages of fast and furry-ous exuberant fun, and a draw-it-yourself activity.Bunny and Monkey are part of the Phoenix Presents series, published by David Fickling Books in partnership with The Phoenix comic, which goes from strength to strength. And much of that success is due to the genius of the extraordinarily talented illustrator Jamie Smart whose ingenious comic-strip Bunny vs Monkey books create giant waves of laughter across a sea of young readers.These manic, high-energy stories are perfectly created for fidgety readers who like their books to come with plenty of comic-strip illustrations and loads of snorts and sniggers. Madcap antics for your action kids!(David Fickling Books, paperback, £9.99)Age 7 plus:The Island Vet: Devil Bird IslandGill Lewis and Irina AvgustinovichA new school and a new island home far away from the big city have transformed Tia’s life… and when your mum is a vet anything can happen! Acclaimed, award-winning children’s author and former vet Gill Lewis works her special brand of animal magic on this inspirational illustrated Island Vet series which follows Tia and her mother’s exciting new life on Gull Haven Island. In this third conservation-themed adventure, a camping trip to count puffins on Devil Bird Island turns into a real drama for Tia and her friend Nat. First, they have to rescue a mysterious marine animal which has been caught in a fishing net off the coast and swept very far from home. Then, when it gets dark, they hear strange wailing and something white and ghostly flies at their tent. Safely back home, they unravel the mysteries of the previous night and learn some important lessons about how everyone on the planet needs to look out for the wildlife around them. Teamed with the beautifully emotive illustrations of Irina Avgustinovich, and published in Barrington Stoke’s trademark dyslexia-friendly format, this heartwarming and inspirational series is ideal for young animal lovers and is sure to delight readers of every age.(Barrington Stoke, paperback, £7.99)Age 6 plus:The Bold KittenHolly Webb and Sophy WilliamsMuch-loved author Holly Webb is enchanting young readers with the incredible 60th heartwarming adventure in her delightful Animal Stories series which has sold hundreds of thousands of copies since the first book hit the shelves in 2006. Webb has written over 100 adorable books for youngsters. In this new story, we meet nine-year-old Hana and her family who have recently fled Syria to stay with a boy called Oscar and his family in the UK. Hana is confused and lonely when she first arrives… she doesn’t speak much English and while her host family seem kind, she misses her friends back home. Then Oscar introduces her to the litter of cats his family are fostering, and Hana falls in love with the brave tortoiseshell kitten named Amal. The more time Hana spends with Amal, the more confident she begins to feel until her mum reveals that the kittens are ready to be adopted, including Amal. Hana doesn’t want her to go… can she find a way for them to stay together? Sophy Williams provides the gorgeous black and white illustrations for this beautifully created adventure which is guaranteed to capture the heart of any child who can’t resist the magic of animals!(Little Tiger Press, paperback, £6.99)Age 5 plus:The Moonlight Mystery Agency: The Birthday Cake ThiefVashti Hardy and Agnes SaccaniJoin a little girl and her detective cat on their mission to solve the mystery of a bionic unicorn’s missing birthday cake in the first book of a marvellously magical series from Blue Peter award-winning author Vashti Hardy and illustrator Agnes Saccani. The Birthday Cake Thief launches The Moonlight Mystery Agency series and is part of publisher Barrington Stoke’s super-readable Little Gems series which comes with a host of clever design and finishing techniques, like dyslexia-friendly fonts, to create easy-to-read, first chapter books in a format ideal for little hands. So meet Hana who has always longed to have a pet of her own. When a cat turns up at her bedroom window one night, she thinks her dream has come true… but Ace is no ordinary cat. He’s a detective cat who has come to invite Hana to work with the Moonlight Mystery Agency! Join Hana and Ace on their magical adventure to solve the mystery of Spark the bionic unicorn’s missing birthday cake. Wordsmith Hardy conjures up her world-building magic while Saccani’s illustrations bring the adorable characters and their fun-filled adventures to colourful life. Add on some spot-the-difference fun and a maze puzzle inside the front and back covers, and you have the perfect early reading package.(Barrington Stoke, paperback, £6.99)Age 3 plus:Amazing BabyAlison BrownAmazing babies are EVERYWHERE… and here’s a picture book that celebrates all the magic, mischief and heartwarming moments that a newborn brings. Talented author and illustrator Alison Brown – who won hearts with her gorgeous books Amazing Mum, Amazing Dad, Amazing Brother and Amazing Sister – turns the spotlight on babies with another of her super-cute picture books. Babies can be sleepy, noisy, adventurous, cuddly and so much more… and though they can be hard work, there’s nothing better than seeing them grow. From late nights and food fights to bathtime, nappy-changes and first steps, Brown’s beautifully illustrated and exuberant rhyming romp – starring a whole host of irresistible, relatable and quirky animal characters – is the ultimate celebration of bouncing babies and their unique identities, likes and dislikes. A joyful way to share new baby love… and the perfect gift for new parents!(Farshore, paperback, £7.99)Age 3 plus:A Midsummer Night’s Drama: A book at bedtime for little bards!Louie Stowell and Isobel LundieWelcome to a drama like no other at The Glade Theatre… a special place where budding bards can hone their skills and discover that all the world’s a stage! A Midsummer Night’s Drama is the first picture book in a brilliantly creative Shakesbearean Tales series from the top team of children’s author Louie Stowell and talented illustrator Isobel Lundie. These charming books, based on Shakespeare’s plays, introduce a cast of lovable animal characters and offer an endearing introduction to the world of theatre. So meet star of the show Bill Bear who loves staging plays with his friends in their woodland theatre. Bill writes brilliant plays for The Glade Theatre and his latest play is a huge success, but then the problems start… Bill’s brain is so busy that he just can’t sleep! Can his animal friends come up with a plan to get him off to sleep? Stowell’s comical and clever story encapsulates the ups and downs of dealing with drama of every kind while Lundie’s atmospheric and richly detailed illustrations bring The Glade Theatre to life. Parents everywhere will recognise the drama of getting an over-excited little bear off to dreamland while the funny and reassuring story addresses some of the big emotions felt by little ones. The second act can’t come soon enough!(Little Tiger Press, paperback, £7.99)Age 3 plus:Love is in the Little ThingsStella J Jones and Jane MasseyWhat better way to celebrate the little ways we show our love than a picture book brimming with warmth, kindness, friendship… and that very special ‘aaah’ factor? Love is in the Little Things – a heart-melting fusion of Stella J Jones’ beautiful words and Jane Massey’s emotive illustrations – is the perfect gift book for parents welcoming home a new baby or to share with a loved one on a memorable occasion. ‘Love is in the little things. A kiss, a smile, a cup of tea. Just me and you sitting quietly. A song, a hug, a helping hand that lifts us up so we can stand.’ Join Big and Small (a cuddly bear and an adorable young child) as they journey through the moments that make a relationship… from blowing bubbles in the bath and a goodnight kiss to saying a heartfelt ‘sorry’ after a fight. Perfectly created for adults to read and share with little ones, Jones’ gentle, rhythmic, reassuring narrative inspires expressions of love and emotion, all brought to life by Massey’s stunning artwork in enchanting pastel shades.(Little Tiger Press, paperback, £7.99)Age 3 plus:I Love You to the Moon and Back: All Year LongAmelia Hepworth and Tim WarnesAaah… gifts for don’t come more special and genuinely touching than this gorgeous picture book which celebrates the eternal and loving relationship between parent and child. This is the third book in this adorable series from top team author Amelia Hepworth and illustrator Tim Warnes and comes packed with the same beautiful words, heartfelt emotions and endearing illustrations. ‘I love to see the sun come up, and melt the winter snow. I love to see your wonder as the spring shoots start to grow.’ As the hope of spring turns into the warm days of midsummer, the story follows Big Bear and Little Bear who share their love and gratitude for one another across the seasons. Toddlers (and their parents) will love turning the pages of this uplifting celebration of love and togetherness which was tailor made for cuddling up close at bedtime!(Little Tiger Press, paperback, £7.99)Age 2 plus:Jana CurllEvery path is special. So choose yours… and keep going! Making choices and deciding on the right path in life might seem like a mountain to climb when you are a young child so help little ones to have confidence in both themselves and their choices with this beautiful, empowering picture book from Canadian author and illustrator Jana Curll. Featuring an adorable snail as the star player, My Path invites readers to follow the snail’s sparkly silver trail on every page and join its amazing adventures. Every morning, the little snail sets off on its chosen path. There are mountains to climb, rushing rivers to cross and, sometimes, when the path ahead seems impossible, it needs to ask for help. But as long as it feels like the right path, the determined snail keeps going! Youngsters will instantly recognise that the adventurous snail decides not to follow the crowd and is ready to face unexpected challenges. Filled with Curll’s stunning artwork, and the distinctive silver trail, this inspiring and joyful journey helps little ones understand that ANYONE can defy the odds and find their own unique way forward. So choose your own special path… and just keep going!(Nosy Crow, hardback, £12.99)Age 2 plus:The Bed BookSylvia Plath and Cindy WumeWhen is a bed not just any old bed? When it’s a bed dreamed up by Pulitzer Prize-winning poet Sylvia Plath! Written for American-born Plath’s own children, Frieda and Nicholas, this perfect bedtime read has been created in picture book form for the first time and exquisitely illustrated in full colour by Taiwan-based artist Cindy Wume. ‘A Tank Bed’s got cranks, And wheels and cogs, And levers to pull, If you’re stuck in bogs. Or a Jet-Propelled Bed, For visiting Mars, With mosquito nets, For the shooting stars.’ Beds come in all shapes and sizes, and need not be boring beds at all. There are submarine beds for nosing through water like a sardine, beds for fishing, and jet-propelled beds that take you all the way to the stars. Playful, comforting and bursting with imaginative power, this magical poem demonstrates Plath’s eye for imagery and arresting language, and is brought to life by the vibrant artwork of Wume who works in gouache, ink, dip-pen and coloured pencils. Bedtime wind-down doesn’t get better than this!(Faber Children’s Books, paperback, £7.99)Age 2 plus:The Girls Book of FriendshipLauren Ace and Jenny LøvlieFriends are for life, not just for childhood! Learn about the joy, fun and beauty of friendship in this heartwarming and gorgeously illustrated board book based on author Lauren Ace and illustrator Jenny Løvlie’s award-winning picture book The Girls. Back in 2019, this partnership’s extra special debut picture book packed a resonant and inspirational message for youngsters just embarking on the adventure of life and this new format carries the same empowering feminist message. ‘There is nothing better you can have than a good friend, and nothing better you can be. Friends are the family you choose for yourself.’ Follow four girls as they grow up together, celebrate their differences, and embrace kindness, resilience and the courage to forge their own unique paths in life. Løvlie’s lovingly imagined illustrations are fresh and appealing and are the perfect match for Ace’s warm and wise words, creating a stunning harmony between words and pictures, and a book sure to be treasured by readers of any age.(Little Tiger Press, board book, £7.99)Age one plus:Croc’s Cooking DayNicola KentCan you help a little Croc make some pancakes? Join Croc and his friends Bear and Hippo as they get hands-on with some cooking in the second adventure of an interactive Busy Chores for Little Paws board book series that lets tiny tots playact grown-up tasks. Youngsters will love lifting flaps, turning wheels and pulling and pushing sliders as they help the animals to measure flour and milk, add the egg, mix the ingredients and finally toss the pancakes! These charming and engaging hands-on introductions to familiar household chores are the work of award-winning author and illustrator Nicola Kent. So roll up your sleeves, turn up the gas and get your little ones ready for some ‘cracking’ fun!(Little Tiger Press, board book, £7.99)Continue Reading

Change in DC bolsters business-owner sentiment, bank surveys show

Business News

Main Street businesses are optimistic about 2025, two new bank surveys show.Vincent DeWitt/BLOOMBERG NEWS Business owners are upbeat about their prospects for the coming year, a pair of bank surveys found, presenting the potential for stronger loan demand.JPMorgan Chase’s 2025 Business Leaders Outlook survey, released this week, found confidence in the national economy jumped 12 percentage points from a year earlier to 55% among small-business owners, and more than doubled from 31% to 65% among midsize business leaders.Three-quarters of respondents said they had a positive outlook for 2024. In total, 2,644 U.S. business owners and leaders across industries were surveyed in November and December after the presidential election.”Businesses are entering 2025 with positive momentum after navigating a period of elevated inflation,” said Ginger Chambless, head of research for JPMorgan commercial banking. “We’ll be watching closely to see how this optimism extends throughout the year and influences companies’ growth strategies.”Should the favorable overall outlook translate into business expansion, it would likely drive increased loan demand and, by extension, new business for banks. This includes community and regional banks that often focus on lending to small and midsize businesses.John Asbury, CEO of the $25 billion-asset Atlantic Union Bankshares in Richmond, Virginia, said that, following President-elect Donald Trump’s November election win and imminent return to the White House later this month, business owners have high expectations for deregulation and lower taxes. This is largely based on Trump’s campaign promises and positions he championed in his first term. Such policies could lower businesses’ costs and boost their profitability, he said. It could also galvanize them to borrow and invest in growth.”I do think it will pick up,” Asbury said of loan growth.A majority of business owners surveyed by JPMorgan said inflation remained a top concern.  Any meaningful bump would mark a bullish departure from 2024. Median sequential loan growth for banks under $10 billion of assets, for example, was just 1.2% in the third quarter, down from 1.7% the previous quarter and 1.9% a year earlier, according to S&P Global Market Intelligence data. In a separate survey of 1,000 business owners that was also released this week, the $24 billion-asset Provident Bank in Iselin, New Jersey, found similar levels of optimism.Its 2025 Economic Outlook survey, conducted late in 2024, found business owners planning on increasing capital spending and investing in technology.The survey found that 63% of respondents believe their own business will be in better shape by the end of 2025, while 68% anticipate they will increase capital spending this year.Just over 50% expect to increase hiring, with 36% predicting no changes in their staffing plans. Nearly 70% plan to invest in artificial intelligence tools, with 29% ready to implement them.The results showed a “focus on growth and strategic expansion,” said Anthony Labozzetta, president and CEO of Provident.  Still, Provident found that top challenges include staffing costs and inflation, with each concern garnering a 46% share of responses.  Inflation reached a 40-year high in June 2022 at 9.1%. This developed amid the fallout of the coronavirus pandemic and the supply-chain problems it created. Russia’s invasion of Ukraine disrupted global energy markets in 2022 and sent oil and gas prices surging.  The Federal Reserve had boosted rates 11 times from March 2022 to mid-2023, driving borrowing costs higher, curbing spending and helping to curtail overall prices. This helped to bring inflation below 3% late in 2024, to 2.7% in November, but it also curbed loan demand and hindered banks’ growth last year. What’s more, inflation remains above the Fed’s 2% target.That noted, the Fed also cut rates three times in the second half of last year, signaling increased confidence in policymakers’ ability to contain cost pressures in 2025.