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The US Review of Books connects authors with professional book reviewers and places their book reviews in front of subscribers to our free monthly newsletter of fiction and nonfiction book reviews. Learn why our publication is different than most others, or read author and publisher testimonials about the USR.

Recent Reviews Focus Review Featured Reviews Author Spotlight US Review Blog   Author Spotlight Robert Kehlmann After my mother died, I found a stash of intimate, politically informative love... (read more) Author Spotlight Jonathan Tepper I have been known mainly for my economic writing, but Shooting Up is a literary memoir that I hope... (read more)

Recent Book Reviews

 

Focus Review

Warning: Short Stories for Middle School Boys Only, Because Girls Have Cooties! by Gene J. Miller Palmetto Publishing "I had kissed a girl, and I'd liked it! I guess girls didn't have cooties after all, and my lips certainly weren't dry anymore!" The transition from childhood to adolescence is always a complicated journey for boys, who look to claw away any independence they can, even if it means bending, breaking, or ignoring the rules around them. This collection of short stories focuses on the hilariously awkward moments and emotionally fraught years that bridge boyhood to manhood, focusing on a particular community in 1960s New Jersey. Each adventure is filled with the kind of neighborhood characters that anyone can relate to, no matter where they come from. Stories about unsupervised mischief, school dances, and Boy Scout activities fill the pages and call to mind a way of life that is both specific to its time and place while also conveying and communicating the more universal experiences of growing up. ... (read more)

• 7 Pillars to Strengthen Your Marriage by Vito Angelo Patrick and Linda Wright-Patrick
• 1000 Words of Wisdom: More of God's Wisdom by David Mozie
• Adventures of Billy Molar, The: Super Tooth and the Plaque Attack by Anne Sprabery - RECOMMENDED
• Ain't You Tired by Cynthia Dewindt - RECOMMENDED
• Aunt Phil's Trunk Proudly Presents Pioneers from Alaska's Past by Laurel Downing Bill - RECOMMENDED
• Cage and the Mirror, The by Jeremy McEntire - RECOMMENDED
• Choir Confidential by Dr. Randal L. Quackenbush - RECOMMENDED
• Christian Manifesto for the Twenty-First Century, A by Dr. D. Carlton O’Rork, Dmin., Phd.
• Every Person Has a Story to Tell by Dr. Walter R. Hoge - RECOMMENDED
• Exciting Life of Joe Sorenson: Volume 2 by Joe Sorenson
• Faithful Ones, The by Shade Sabitu
• Grand Mother's Journey, The by Marion Gertrud Mensing
• Grandma's Bucket of Mercy by Robin Carole - RECOMMENDED
• Heed the Heart by Wendy Negley
• In The Garden by Christal Kahles-Jones - RECOMMENDED
• Incident at Terlingua, The by HW Ryan - RECOMMENDED
• Intrinsic by W.H.B.
• Judgment Tree by Gary E. Parker - RECOMMENDED
• Learning to Levitate by Jude Seaward - RECOMMENDED
• Lessons Learned by James W. Merritt, Jr. - RECOMMENDED
• Let's Talk... about Getting Older by Linda Primera and Toby
• Lucky Day by Cary Snowden - RECOMMENDED
• Magic of Making a Difference, The by Dr. Melana E. Uhrik
• Making, the Rise, and the Future of the Speakingman, The by Dan Mrejeru - RECOMMENDED
• Meaning of Names and Places in the New Testament by Pat Crossin
• Moderately Motivated Man's Guide to Habits, The by Rick Resnick - RECOMMENDED
• Murder In The Barracks by Tamar Anolic
• Myth, Folklore, and Ancient Ethics by M. Stuart Madden
• Nature's Rhyming Riddles by Michael J. Larson
• Nice Girls Win by Kelly Ehlers
• Nineteen by Leslie Johansen Nack
• Oceans and Deserts Stock Exchange, The by James Michael Matthew
• Palaboy by Andy Bott
• Place Of Promise, A by Marcie Shrewsbury Lopez - RECOMMENDED
• Pool Centre, The by Miguel Arrufat Millan
• Really, God-Guatemala? by Vicki Augustiniak, RN
• Seeking Trust by Dennis E. Weiland, MD - RECOMMENDED
• Seeing His Heart in Yours by Kathy Proctor 
• Sky is the Limit, The by Astrid Hoffmann - RECOMMENDED
• Soul of the Dragon Fae: Book One by Kay Arwen - RECOMMENDED
• Story of the Universe, The by Yan Gertsoyg
• Super Faith Spi-net Girl by Miss Donna Ricketts - RECOMMENDED
• Sunward by Jo Anne Jeffries - RECOMMENDED
• Tale of Two Bostons, A by Barry Arthur Cotton - RECOMMENDED
• Talisman by Tom Catalano - RECOMMENDED
• Through A Mirror, Darkly by Jullet Simpson
• Turtle's Treacherous Trip by Danny Barron - RECOMMENDED
• Uneek by Sonja R. E. Omerzu - RECOMMENDED
• Vine, The by Timothy Pugh
• When Life Is Lyphing You Life Back by Jasper "Mr. Horse" Manning, Sr. - RECOMMENDED
• Whispers on the Swing by Keith A. Hartzler - RECOMMENDED
• Why Gold? by Leslie Snyder Bates - RECOMMENDED
• Willow Tales by Joni Franks - RECOMMENDED
• Wolf's Path, The by Robert D. Nakamura
• Writing in Parallel by Bill Resimont
• You're Not Too Old, and It's Not Too Late by Ilene Berns-Zare, PsyD - RECOMMENDED

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Featured Book Reviews

 

Innovative Thought

Highlight Review The Making, the Rise, and the Future of the Speakingman by Dan Mrejeru book review by Mihir Shah "The Information Society breaks down old, rigid industrial linearities (linear production/through) but introduces new, digital, and complex dependencies (networked systems/algorithms)." In this seventh edition of the author's iconic work on the evolution of the modern human brain, he delves into the geophysical events that serve as significant catalysts for changes in brain function. Given the global nature of concepts like planetary cooling, Mrejeru's commentary provides insightful commentary on how different parts of the globe adapted to these experiences. Presenting the work as a collection of papers, Mrejeru first transports readers back to 500ka to 300ka (300,000 to 500,000 years ago), a period marked by the Paleolithic, which spearheaded brain anatomical change. ... (read more)

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Spiritual Journey

This book is an in-depth exploration of one of the best-known sections of the Bible—the Book of Ecclesiastes, specifically Chapter 3, verses 1-12. Its chapters challenge individuals to consider not only how they interpret this set of scriptures, but also how they apply them. It also asks them to consider how they perceive, utilize, and approach their faith. These chapters also provide insight into how to cope with life's difficult circumstances, particularly the negativity one may encounter from others. Other chapters provide personal narratives about incidents that may test one's faith. The author shares how her faith guided her through both difficult and easy circumstances. Other chapters remind readers that they must take care of their spirits as well as their bodies and minds. ... (read more)

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Honoring Legacy

Highlight Review Grandma's Bucket of Mercy by Robin Carole MindStir Media book review by Barbara Bamberger Scott "You are never too old or too young to learn life's lessons. Grandma was right." Author Carole captures the recollections and understandings of her youthful self as, beginning at age ten, she visits with her grandmother, whose skills at cooking delicious meals and managing daily chores are underpinned by deep qualities of generosity and mercy. She is fond of pronouncing simple yet significant "rules" for living—primary among them the admonition to her granddaughter not to be in such a hurry to grow up that she might "jump over the lilies and land in a cow pie." These wise and folksy exhortations give the girl rich food for contemplation. ... (read more)

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Betrayals

Marian and Jason have been married for over twenty years and have two adult children, Olivia and Mark. Marian discovers that Jason cheated on her during a business trip to Sydney, a realization triggered by hearing the laughter of another woman on a phone call. Feeling deeply betrayed, Marian still decides to take a trip with Jason to Paris in the hope of saving their marriage. They have visited the city several times before. While working on their relationship, Marian is confronted with painful memories, including the loss of their unborn child many years ago. During this time in Paris, she is also organizing a vernissage with her art colleague and friend, Stephanie. As Marian navigates her marital issues, she finds herself juggling both personal struggles and professional responsibilities. ... (read more)

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Heartfelt Narrative

Highlight Review A Tale of Two Bostons: Emergence of the Boston Men by Barry Arthur Cotton Scéalta Sinsear Heritage Press book review by Kate Robinson "Ten Massachusetts Bay Company founding members were among the first to migrate from Boston, Lincolnshire." Religious and financial tensions merged during the reign of Charles I to create opposition to both the Anglican Church and the Crown's 1626 forced loan policy, which bypassed Parliament and compelled wealthier subjects to fund England's ongoing wars in France and Spain. The ensuing constitutional crisis led to the imprisonment of seventy-six dissenters without trial and united the gentry and nobles against the Crown. Ultimately, a convergence of like-minded merchants, magistrates, and clergy arose in Boston, Lincolnshire: the "Boston men" who organized the Massachusetts Bay Colony charter. ... (read more)

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Realism & Life

Johann Gutenberg is a skilled artisan in Germany in the 1400s. He is a gem cutter, engraver, and smelter, among other things. His talent helps him stand out, and he is soon approached by a friar who wants him to embellish a book with some silver adornments and stamp a long Latin phrase on the cover. Gutenberg becomes engrossed in the work and begins to form ideas in his head for improving the stamping method. These ideas will eventually lead him to dream up a new idea—a printing press. Books are currently made only by painstaking hand copying, mostly by religious orders. A single book can take a year to copy, and the price is exorbitant. In order to pursue his dream, Gutenberg must give up his job and constantly borrow and worry over money. Also, he meets a young woman named Ennelin, and the two begin a passionate relationship. He plans to marry her, but when his finances crumble, he insists on breaking the engagement, convinced she deserves better than to be tied to a man constantly in fear of debtor's prison. Through years and years of hardship along with trial and error, Gutenberg eventually realizes his dream. However, old debts and misfortune are not finished with him. ... (read more)

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Entertaining & Intelligent

Highlight Review Aunt Phil's Trunk Proudly Presents Pioneers from Alaska's Past: Bringing Alaska's History Alive! by Laurel Downing Bill Aunt Phil's Trunk book review by Priscilla Estes "In the boom and bust world of frontier mining camps, fortunes were made and lost overnight." Ever since Russia sold Alaska to the United States in 1867, The Last Frontier has tingled the mind, tantalized the senses, and made red-blooded muscles flex. Her land of ice, soaked with blood and gold dust, was The Great Land, The Forty-Ninth State, and The Northern Wild West, where fortune seekers, seasoned Wild West prospectors, and outlaws moved for adventure, wealth, and to escape their terrible lives. Conmen and speculators abounded, as did inventors, missionaries, explorers, miners, newspapermen, and ferocious frontierswomen. Reporter Emma Kelly carried a Bowie knife and gun into the Klondike and penned authentic tales, printed by major publications, of life in both towns and the frontier. Alaska's fifth governor, John Green Brady, was toppled politically by a railroad conman named Reynolds. Wyatt Earp owned a successful saloon in Nome. Many Alaskan adventurers succeeded, most failed, and no gauge can measure whether living conditions improved for the majority. But the true stories from this early era of American history are more precious than golden nuggets hyped as "the size of potatoes." ... (read more)

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Social Pressures

Todos Los Santos Middle School is a chaotic Arizona educational institution where students spend more time filming online challenge videos and fighting each other than learning anything. George Shelf is a seasoned, grizzled security monitor doing his best to help these kids stay out of trouble and stop from attacking each other, within the confines of being a modern-day mediator for pre-teens. Every day is both an adventure and a nightmare filled with pranks, violence, immorality, immaturity, and the occasional heartwarming moment. George, known as Mr. George to the children, is often tasked with intervening or supporting them, although he has the experience to know when to step back and protect himself from the chaos or an angry parent. ... (read more)

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Entralling

Highlight Review Ava's Connection: A Tumultuous Heart by Janet R. Perroni Aspire Publishing Hub book review by Nicole Yurcaba "The war stretched across two fronts, hard to grasp in its enormity." In this fast-paced World War II-era romance, a woman named Ava finds herself bound by patriotic duty, romantic desire, and the overwhelming consequences of her past. As America finds itself deeply embroiled in the war, Ava's family life descends into chaos. Her estranged daughter, Mary, resurfaces, filing legal action against Ava after discovering the truth about her estranged father. Ava, an employee at a weapons factory, has unique access to some of America's most vital wartime weapons, and when a man from her past resurfaces, his presence compromises not only Ava's life but also her professional life—and her family's future. Meanwhile, when Ava's beloved son, Trevor, goes missing in the war, her life is transformed further, and her personal strength and resilience are tested. This novel is a fictional testament to the inner strength many women of the World War II generation summoned as they navigated seemingly insurmountable personal, professional, and even political odds. ... (read more)

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Formidable Character

This book is a fictional tale of a Latino named Martin Talavera, who, in 1910, embarks on a career in the US Navy after graduating from the US Naval Academy. Martin attends the academy despite originally wanting to attend Princeton or Brown. His educational and career choices were "an intriguing option," and like his father, "Martin wanted a life at sea and to become a merchant marine ship's captain." During his time at the Naval Academy, Martin proves himself as a dedicated student and midshipman, so much so that he graduates in the top ten midshipmen of his class. ... (read more)

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Hope

Tepper, chief investment officer at Prevatt Capital, writes movingly of his youth as a son of missionaries living in Madrid in the 1980s. His father, seemingly destined for a career in business, had left Harvard after seeing heaven and hell in a vision while under the influence of LSD. While the family was living in Spain, the author's father devised a plan to bring drug addicts to Jesus by deploying his sons (Jonathan, David, Peter, and Timmy) to meet them and bring them home—a strategy that met resistance from his wife's parents, who thought him insane, and the missions organization for which the Teppers worked. ... (read more)

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Confident Life

This deeply personal and reflective book encourages women to embrace their dreams, their goals, and their desires. It is not a linear read, and the book's audience is encouraged to skip to the chapters they feel are most necessary and helpful. Initially, the book opens with a unique tool—The Permission Slip, which bears a powerful statement: "I am the one who decides." This simple tool reminds women that they have—and should have—the power to make their own decisions. The author also shares anecdotes from her own life about being a woman working in executive leadership under a boss "who viewed me less as a professional and more as a face that could wine, dine, and get new clients." She describes having to file an EEOC claim after being dismissed from her job because of her pregnancy. From there, she shares inspirational and useful pieces of advice like "When you win, be nice. But win no matter what." ... (read more)

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Real Vision

Using the cage-and-mirror metaphor, McEntire meticulously takes readers beyond what is discernible, diving into the anatomy of an organization and the variables—conscious or subconscious—that either set it up for success or for imminent failure. Through a series of anecdotes, organizations from business to healthcare are dissected to reveal the catalyst that keeps each constrained. ... (read more)

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Embarking

This deeply personal memoir begins with one woman's recollection of a life-defining moment with her father, affectionately known as the Voice of America. The author recalls "growing up unconventionally," raised by "the best and the worst father in the world." The story unfolds, taking a dark turn as the author recalls her father's "indiscretions and abuses over the years." Eventually, the author returns to her mother in Windsor, Ontario, Canada. A new life and a new school in Canada presents its own hardships and trials. The author recounts many days of seeing her mother passed out, drunk, and resenting her responsibilities and duties as a mother. Other domestic disasters shape the author's existence and outlook on life, as well as her future relationships with men. Nonetheless, the experiences the author shares are a testament to the power of self-determination and an unwillingness to ever lose hope. ... (read more)

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Making Better

Weiland's book offers an insider's perspective on medical care, focusing on specific treatment procedures and the needs and reactions of patients, and is solidly grounded in the author's many years as a physician. Growing up on a family farm in Colorado, the author played football avidly in high school and college while considering a medical career. He was accepted for that ambitious endeavor by the State University of South Dakota. There, his initial studies were starkly prefaced by a professor's invitation to new students to "meet your cadavers," with a warning that "many of you will fail." By diligently studying many extra hours, Weiland began his upward trajectory, also meeting his future wife, Jeanne, who encouraged and supported him throughout his lengthy, challenging career. ... (read more)

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Poetically Done

In Sorenson's touching book, which is part memoir, part poetry collection, he enthusiastically highlights the most meaningful moments of his life. Some are funny, some are heartfelt, and others are mournful. He introduces the book with an invitation to join him on a trip through time, on a life journey, and Sorenson's writing is immediately engaging, almost as if speaking with you in person, regaling the good and bad memories that shaped him. The ease of the narrative portrays Sorenson's affecting humanity, and one can't help but be excited along with him as he shares these significant moments. ... (read more)

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Choices

The author's tumultuous childhood portended a life of dysfunction, as generational alcoholism paved a path for Dewindt to continue the generational trauma. However, her unyielding resolve to change her narrative, come hell or high water, is downright stirring. Inspired by Viola Davis' famous line in The Help, this book is a thought-provoking plea to reflect on what is holding one back from experiencing that unharnessed joy. ... (read more)

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Emotions & Reflections

The author reflects on her life with her late husband, Adrian, recalling their twenty years of marriage and how they met. She openly discusses the significant age gap between them and its impact on their family and friends. Although many were surprised by the age difference (Adrian was forty-six years older than her), they focused solely on their love for one another. They supported each other throughout their relationship, and over the years, their bond grew stronger, bringing out the best in each other. The author credits her husband with inspiring her to become a better person, emphasizing that it truly takes meeting the right person to ignite that kind of inspiration. Through this journey, she reflects on how her life with Adrian transformed her from an unhappy woman into a vibrant one. ... (read more)

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Life's Exigencies

The author has created a stirring panorama of family, forbearance, faith, and the importance of persistence amid seemingly insurmountable challenges. Laura is a teen confined to a wheelchair after a childhood accident, and her twin sister, Lindsey, is burdened by bipolar disorder. They live with their mother, Trudy, all longing to reunite with their father, James, who is serving overseas during World War II. ... (read more)

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Intensity

Writer Hartzler offers inspirational messages found in poetic expressions, spiritual statements, and simple, human-scale utterances for the guidance and benefit of thinkers and seekers across a broad spectrum. Enhanced by delicate, nature-laden artworks by illustrator Eleanor Mathews on every page, Hartzler's presentations are deeply significant, allowing readers to cherish particular favorites while pushing forward to garner further insight. ... (read more)

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Who Are You?

This collection of poetry, part of the author's Time 2 MANning Up Series, centers on an approach to life called "lyphing," a philosophical concept that combines radical acceptance, resilience, and a respect for humanity. This thread of lyphing spans decades, featuring the parents of past memories, the kids of a childhood, the grown parents of a new generation, and the spouse who is a partner in everything. Chapters group sets of poems into categories such as parenting, love and marriage, prayer and faith, our nation, and more. Deep topics emerge, including grief, vulnerability, identity, curiosity, and joy. Layered meanings—for example, words that sound the same but have different spellings—deepen the introspective nature of these poems. ... (read more)

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Fickle Fate

In 2008, Chris Franklin is in his late twenties, a married father of two who drives a taxi in New York City. He meticulously carries out his duties from start to finish throughout his workday. The reward for his daily grind is the exuberant greeting he receives from his young daughters. However, the reaction he receives from his wife, Mary, more resembles indifference. Chris didn't foresee a life like this a decade before, when he was on the verge of starting college, and the future was bright. At eighteen years old, Chris Franklin was the envy of friends and classmates, the life of the party, pondering making a romantic overture to his best friend, Meghan. It only took one fateful weekend to change everything when Chris' relationship with Meghan collapsed, and Chris met Mary. ... (read more)

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Beyond Story

Madden's work sheds light on the mythologies of cultures and civilizations worldwide. More than that, though, it establishes how myths have always acted as the language of understanding, a means to articulate the way the world worked before any other mode of communication existed. From the origin stories of the natives to the myths that define the world's continents, Madden showcases his impeccable research, especially in identifying myth patterns across commonly observed cultures throughout history. ... (read more)

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Serenity

In this forty-day journal, Proctor provides a blueprint for discovering one's inner spirit and understanding that unconditional devotion to the Lord is the pathway to genuine happiness. Digging even deeper, this surrender to Christ is the ultimate remedy not just for one's own liberation from the grip of material vices, but also for building a more cohesive, kinder society that truly believes in its oneness. In this journal, the author avoids imbuing the work with an overabundance of scripture. On the contrary, her prayers take the theme of the Bible passage quoted at the top of each entry and then use it to reflect on the road she has personally traveled, giving her instant relatability. ... (read more)

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Crisis Management

This feel-good family vacation story takes a sharp turn to disaster when the Thompson family flies to Oahu. The vacation begins with a string of luck: a free seat upgrade, a parking spot right by the shuttle, and an ocean-view suite on the top floor. Twelve-year-old Emma keeps track of every good thing in her notebook. Then a massive earthquake hits, and the luck runs out fast. The hotel becomes a fight for survival as the building begins to fail. The Thompsons struggle through flooded stairwells and a strange viral outbreak among other guests before reaching open water ahead of the wave. ... (read more)

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Star-Like

Uneek, as his name implies, is a one-of-a-kind being. Born in the Esoterica Nebula, "At birth, Uneek was simulated into a variable spark of energy, a star-like being. In some ways, he was like a super-intelligent humanoid inside a luminescent body." As Uneek's vast intelligence grows, "His mind eventually developed into a flowing current of truth. He grew to know and understand the intricacies as well as the vastness of the perplexing universe with its natural laws." Uneek is particularly drawn to "life on planet Earth and the turbulent history of its formation." Earthlings both fascinate and dismay him. Their evolution is far behind what it should have been, and they are fast destroying their planet. Having studied the Milky Way and Earth's history, Uneek is well-suited for his first mission—travel to Earth and "ascertain and assess the problems facing Earthlings in their spiritual evolution and technological progression." ... (read more)

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Inspiring

Author Hoge has observed life in multiple aspects, examining the purely physical and directly consequential laws affecting one's relationship with animals and their environment, interwoven with the etheric, spiritual, and God-imbued visions and alterations underpinning those laws. These sage understandings, grounded in realities both earthly and higher, are supported by Hoge's long-held intellectual studies of the realm of science, focusing on veterinary medicine and its effects on all aspects of life. These dynamic themes are introduced by an exploration of animal memories and animal consciousness. For example, Squirrels are aware of climate dangers and will return to stashes of food created for just those perils. Elephants express, through vocal sounds, their recognition of family and those with whom they have herded. Humans may block memories in response to acquired trauma, but certain incidents may nonetheless evoke reminders. ... (read more)

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Writing Frontier

Examining a concept rooted in ancient Greek schools, this book encourages its audience to become more knowledgeable about what it means to write in parallel. It examines how multiple independent writers responding to the same prompt is an inherently straightforward concept. However, the text examines how such a practice deeply enhances one's knowledge base and collaboration skills. It also poses multiple ideas about the concept of authorship while explicating writing across parallel philosophies in relation to artificial intelligence, teaching, government, and marketing. ... (read more)

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Breeziness & Brevity

Brooks Jenson, a cadet at West Point, is leading a double life. Ostensibly, for the past few years, he and Mara Anderson have been quite happily dating. What Mara doesn't know is that Brooks is also romantically involved with Jedidiah ("Jed") Figuero, a popular student and skilled athlete. Brooks and Jed have agreed to date women in the hopes of disguising their orientation, which could land them in trouble in the repressive environment of West Point. Their subterfuge threatens to spill into the open when Brooks discovers Jed's lifeless body, his throat slit. Soon, investigators arrive on campus asking uncomfortable questions, seeking a motive for murder, and as hidden truths are brought into the light, Brooks risks losing everything. ... (read more)

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Transcendent

Religious and financial tensions merged during the reign of Charles I to create opposition to both the Anglican Church and the Crown's 1626 forced loan policy, which bypassed Parliament and compelled wealthier subjects to fund England's ongoing wars in France and Spain. The ensuing constitutional crisis led to the imprisonment of seventy-six dissenters without trial and united the gentry and nobles against the Crown. Ultimately, a convergence of like-minded merchants, magistrates, and clergy arose in Boston, Lincolnshire: the "Boston men" who organized the Massachusetts Bay Colony charter. ... (read more)

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Life-Enhancing Tools

Author Ricketts offers guidance, couched in a delicate narrative mixed with poetic phrasing, focusing on the benefits of giving oneself to God and his son, Jesus. She presents this stirring reminder for all who are in doubt, or who may feel themselves subtly straying from the source of spiritual sustenance: "The trials of life make you. / The trials of life break you. / The trials of life scare you. / The trials of life dare you." ... (read more)

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Healing Journey

Originally trained as a learning disability nurse, the author first embarked on a career with the UK's National Health Service, then chose an independent path as a behavior analyst. Underlying the knowledge gained in her career was her own emotional disconnection and the childhood trauma underlying it. In order to assist others in understanding their own behavioral motives, Seaward had to revisit her "experiences and coping mechanisms" that she developed, leading to her feeling of being chronically misunderstood. ... (read more)

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The Human Condition

Full of thoughtful information, this book consists of an introduction that examines spirituality and consciousness, sixteen chapters, a summary of the chapters, a final conclusion, an annex on Kashmir Shaivism, and a list of references. It begins the chapters by examining Kali, the Great Mother/World Mother, and then focuses the next chapter on defining spirituality. Other chapters center on science and spirituality, Shiva and Shakti, the two hemispheres of the brain, the Akashic field, and psychosynthesis. The book also explores Wetiko, which is a "contagious psychosis," a type of evil, brutality, and greed, and how this goes against God/the World Mother. Other topics include pollution, capitalism, the misogyny of Christianity, the works of Richard Rohr and Yogananda, and emotional pain and spirituality. ... (read more)

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Pefect Guide

Crossin has created something perfect for those who follow the Christian faith or are just curious to learn more about the Holy Bible. This concordance of places and names from the New Testament is not only an impressive feat, but also valuable. The book is over 900 pages long, so it's definitely a reference guide, but that doesn't mean it wouldn't be possible or interesting enough to read from cover to cover. Crossin painstakingly explains not only how to say these names and places but also where to find them in the Bible. For example, "Wormwood" is mentioned in Revelation 8:11. The layout includes the definition of the word, its pronunciation, and its location in the Bible. It's also in alphabetical order. His references, as stated in the introduction, include Easton's Bible Dictionary, Smith's Bible Dictionary, A Dictionary of the Proper Names by J. B. Jackson, and Strong's Concordance. ... (read more)

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Veracity

Author O'Rork gathers numerous passages from the Holy Bible and significant historical sources to support his dynamic assertion that much biblical truth is now being ignored. This neglect has deeply denigrated current trends. Perceiving an "intentional effort to thwart, hush, and otherwise silence Christians" through worldly methodologies, he reminds readers of America's founding upon pure, Bible-based concepts. ... (read more)

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Spiritual Concepts

Author Mozie shares his sage sayings to remind readers of the many ways that life can create barriers to communication with God, while revealing a path to strengthen that special connection. He introduces helpful viewpoints with his first offering, alerting those who could be diverted from the way to truth: "Generally, anything that would lead us to hell or death is opposed by Christ's wisdom." Many varied, lively themes are offered, such as surprises, comforts, humor, spiritual signposts, and well-honed philosophical underpinnings. Sincere aspirants should not let "what didn't work out" divert them from God's plan. Hardship, Mozie states, "is a breaker," while "faith in God is like an unbreakable rod." ... (read more)

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Choir Vibrancy

Church choir directors take on a unique, multifaceted role, one that is often overlooked and underappreciated, although the fruits of their labors can be awe-inspiring. This is a practical guide for church choir directors, covering both the spiritual and logistical demands of leading a choir. The author begins by outlining essential leadership qualities, such as humility, a clear and thoughtful vision, alignment with the church's mission, and the ability to inspire and care for choir members. From there, he addresses the musical and organizational skills required for effective direction, including building a repertoire, conducting, and navigating unique difficulties a choir director may face. The author provides guidance for developing a vibrant choir, offering practical advice on scheduling, rehearsal and performance techniques, setting realistic expectations, and adapting to the group's strengths. In the second half of the book, he examines several case studies of choirs from around the world, their unique values, successes, challenges—particularly in the face of COVID-19—and, in some cases, downfalls, in a fascinating compilation. ... (read more)

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Profound Experiences

The story begins in April 2016 as the author, a pediatric hospital nurse and medical missionary, travels from Houston to Guatemala to help drill wells and teach health education. She is warmly welcomed by her host family and immediately entranced by their village life. She begins teaching Bible and hygiene lessons to the children at the drill site. Although the initial trip is brief, it leaves a lasting impression, and she finds herself unable to forget the experience after returning home. She retires from her nursing job and becomes more involved in her church's mission work, ultimately embarking on nine trips to Guatemala and six to Mexico over the next several years. She also receives training from Teach to Transform for medical missions. Her work is suddenly halted by the COVID pandemic. She struggles to find normalcy, returning to her hospital part-time as a nurse. Eventually, she resumes her mission efforts with trips to El Salvador and Guatemala. Through it all, she works incredibly hard, sharing her medical knowledge, patience, and faith with those she serves. ... (read more)

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Reflective Perceptions

Author Sabitu offers a fascinating perspective on the Holy Bible's well-known tale of the prodigal son, meticulously exploring the feelings of the prodigal's older brother. The biblical account tells of a youth who abruptly demands his inheritance and leaves home, while his brother stays with his father and works diligently and dutifully. When the younger son returns, burdened with regrets, his father forgives him, forming the core of the story as it is most often presented. ... (read more)

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Fulfilling Lives

British author Simpson follows her previous book, Revelations From My Bedside, with a new work that ponders the significance and current relevance of biblical scripture. Touching on a range of topics, Simpson explores marriage, child rearing, self-love, relationships, and humanity's place and purpose in the world in connection to God's commandments. ... (read more)

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Solid Gold Investment

A masterpiece on sound monetary policy, Bates' work reaches the layman with clarity and purpose, instilling an unparalleled understanding of what makes the economy tick, and how the government, spearheaded by the Federal Reserve, has become a deterrent to economic freedom. On a deeper level, the author's ability to directly connect with the Founding Fathers and to demonstrate how money was the link to monetary independence sets the work apart from others in its genre. ... (read more)

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Starting Afresh

Jake Plumb has come to Terlingua in search of work as a civil engineer. While at a bar, he meets Sheriff Chavez and his deputy, Casey Heap. Jake explains his situation, and the sheriff directs him to Paul Wretched, who is seeking someone to help with his water pumps and construction equipment. However, Chavez is suspicious of Jake, so he conducts a background check. He discovers that Jake's career skills could be valuable to him. Consequently, Chavez asks Jake to consider becoming a probationary deputy. Jake is hesitant, feeling unqualified for the role. His last job, which he felt unsuited for, had resulted in tragic consequences, even though it wasn't his fault. In the end, Jake decides to accept Chavez's offer. Throughout this journey, he aims to assist the sheriff in protecting Terlingua while trying to leave his past behind. ... (read more)

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Charming

This storybook of seven stories for older children also includes beginning information for the child and the parent, as well as an afterword. The stories usually feature a named animal encountering another animal and include "Olivia and the Parrot," "Waldo and the Dove," "Ronny and the Hen," "Petunia and the Eagle," "Phone and the Crane," "Tabor and the Owl," and "Kiya: The Cat Who Turned Into an Angel." The opening title provides the name's origin and the explanation of the symbol. Each story asks what is the message of the story and relates, in detail, messages such as trusting yourself, being responsible, being honest, not being bossy, getting in touch with your feelings, and learning about loss. Each story also ends with a picture to color. However, all the stories stand alone with their messages, as given by the animals, and can be discussed before reading the sections on what the message is. ... (read more)

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Spiritual Anchor

Against the backdrop of 1959, Jeffries' memoir delivers a jarring scene to open the work: an established practitioner, Dr. Meares, unequivocally states that the parents and home environment are responsible for their child's autism. What ensues is a comprehensive rendition of what it means to raise a child with autism, and the unyielding desire to hold onto hope, even when all hope seems lost. ... (read more)

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Real Change

Author Uhrik offers a shimmering story of how anyone can overcome doubts and fears to transform difficult circumstances and inspire life's next steps. Immersed in Aiden Huddleston's bright, illustrative settings, the reader meets Lizzy, an energetic girl who wants to help her schoolmates by joining in feeding hungry children by donating canned food. Before setting out for school one morning, Lizzy asks for a can to add to the effort, without realizing what a struggle it is for her mother to make ends meet. When her mother refuses, Lizzy, a good student with many friends. is still hopeful that her class can win a prize by bringing the most contributions. ... (read more)

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From Good to Great

Tired, troubled marriages can be recharged by plugging into the seven principles and the complementary activity exercises explained in this practical workbook of self-discovery and inspiration. Direct, kind, and no-nonsense language highlights common problems that feel so uncommon in the moment and offers solutions. Solutions hinge on the seven pillars of marriage, which the Patricks arrived at through years of matrimony, marriage coaching, and mentorship: purpose, promise, passion, positive connection, powerful communication, preserved trust, and progressive finances. ... (read more)

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Enjoy the Ride

Author Primera arrays profound thoughts concerning the difficulties facing those in their older years, purveying her sagacity with dignity, insight, and vivid humor. With cartoon-like characters and situations, her creation begins with one couple's declaration: "Oh my! We are getting older...and...it sucks!" Old age may invite respect, but some family members may seek to control seniors in numerous ways. They may avoid their aging parents, perhaps fearing that they might suddenly have a heart attack. The next generation may point out such senior deficits as poor hearing and failing memory, even when these problems have not manifested, but simply because they are commonly held expectations. The younger cohort may start to unfairly avoid ordinary contact for fear of their parent's possible embarrassing problems—using the bathroom too much or failing to understand questions asked. ... (read more)

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Bridging to Light

Author Arwen's worldbuilding skills are on full display in this metaphysical romantasy set upon the intriguing Isle of Skye in Scotland. She weaves a lyrically written tale laden with myth and legend, effortlessly balancing the viewpoints of her protagonist's three significant lifetimes. The intertwined lives of Ianna, a merwoman, Meg (Inanna's identity in the third dimension of eighteenth-century Scotland), and the contemporary English writer, Kaia, are presented with clarity. Each woman is blessed (or cursed) with opportunities for romance, or a lack thereof, making the story plotlines a rather busy, multidimensional tapestry that is a pleasure to contemplate. ... (read more)

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Austerity

Patrick O'Brien is a young journalism and business student attending college when he publishes an article in the Dartmouth Free Press that catches the eye of a prestigious elder-care facility: The Vine. After watching both his parents and grandparents deteriorate slowly in nursing homes, he wonders at the agonizing slowness of their demise and asks repeatedly, "Is there not a better way to manage this?" This question is the very one that The Vine seeks to address. ... (read more)

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Fnding God

This unique poetry collection is a fusion of colorful, thought-provoking images and contemplative, philosophical verses. It celebrates "What once had been a spark." Then it guides the book's audience into galaxies, to stars, through the Milky Way, and among the myriad interstellar objects that form the universe. Other verses take on a fantastical tone: "The Sun then rose / On another world / As far in time / As a faint star in space." These poems attempt to capture the universe's vast expanses and, in doing so, reveal the futility of humanity and the universe's other creations. These careful examinations of the universe remind the book's audience that "Change is the only thing that's real" and, in their own quiet way, encourage individuals to accept that fact. ... (read more)

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Grandfather's Love

The author is very aware of what will appeal to young children. For example, as children mature and become curious about the world around them, they are often drawn to one particular subject: the animal kingdom. If asked about their favorite animal in the whole wide world, they will likely launch into a long presentation on all of their favorites, sprinkled with little facts that one cannot imagine how they must have learned. When a child develops such a curiosity, it is only natural that there be some investment on their behalf. And what better investment can a nurturing adult make than in books? ... (read more)

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Faith Over Fear

The Buds and Blossoms Flower Farm was located on the edge of a secluded moss forest. Between the rows of violets and lush hedges stood a whimsical cottage where Granny Bloom and her Welsh corgi, Sebastian, lived. Sebastian served as the farm's security guard, watching over the entrance and barking to alert Granny of any potential customers. Sebastian supervised all the animals that lived on the farm. At night, he slept beside Granny Bloom on a heart-shaped rug she had made for him. When Granny Bloom fell ill, Sebastian became worried. Determined to find help, he left the farm despite his reluctance. During his journey, he met a fairy named Moss Drop and a small Welsh corgi named Willow, who would change his life forever as he sought aid for Granny Bloom. ... (read more)

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Brightness & Rhymes

Taking young readers under the ocean, to the beach's edge, deep inside a sandy hole, then back into the waves of the sea (after experiencing winged danger from sky predators), Barron's picture book introduces the lifecycle of the sea turtle. With fins built for swimming and "bony shell backs nearly hard as a tree," a sea turtle couple explores, feasting on seaweed, when Mrs. Sea Turtle instinctively knows it's time to lay her eggs near the shore's grassline. Narrowly avoiding becoming a shark's meal, the turtle reaches land and lays 100 eggs, burying them deep. Embryos form inside each egg, gradually developing fins, eyes, a shell, and more. Weeks later, the eggs crack open as baby turtles instinctively climb out, making their way home into the ocean. Their journey contains risks, such as vultures and frigate birds swooping from the skies. A single sea turtle survives its journey back into the salty expanse of the sea. ... (read more)

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Pandemic Study

Disease outbreaks have been a hot-button topic for decades, and in Merritt's newest book, he explores how the past will shape how people view the next pandemic. Merritt begins by explaining how major pandemics throughout history, dating back to Ancient Greece, have affected society. They have influenced how public health changes, usually for the better, though not always. They also affect the economy. Governments play a strong part in this. Merritt stresses the importance of leadership during a pandemic. He uses former U.S. President Woodrow Wilson and the Spanish Flu as an example. Wilson's leadership during the crisis wasn't the best. ... (read more)

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Speculative Insights

This brief but information-packed volume begins with a business proposition that challenges the traditional extraction-centered view of capitalism and instead proposes creating an Oceans and Deserts Stock Exchange (ODSE). The core strategy is building fjords and salt marshes in the world's salt basins and desert regions. The volume is, in some respects, a geopolitical statement that focuses on the complexities of climate change and the melding of green energy policies and national security.The author builds a complicated but compelling argument in eight chapters for replacing existing "carbon credit" markets with an "Ocean Levels Reduction Option" (OLRO). The author believes carbon credits will ultimately prove to be worthless and have no impact on climate change. He instead proposes that an ODSE be structured like existing stock and commodity exchanges around the world. ... (read more)

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