November 16, 2021 - The Pacific – HBO Miniseries – producers Tom Hanks, Steven Spielberg, and Gary Goetzmann
Much like Band of Brothers, which was released in 2001, The Pacific offers viewers a tiny glimpse of what a soldier’s life was like during the Pacific theater during the latter years of WW II. Band of Brothers was arguably better acted and “more familiar” to those inundated by WW II films. Both series are based on monographs written by historians or veterans who had wanted these stories available for others.
Overall, this ten-part series is excellent. Very few times does it lag, as it offers an action packed and thoughtful approach to the atrocities of war based on the aforementioned books. I don’t recommend this series to children, but young adults and older would be best served in watching it with family and/or friends. Adults would be able to offer some insight into why humans embroil themselves in war, which leads to death, corruption, mental anguish, PTSD, amongst many other negative attributes.
WW II, unlike almost any other war, had a greater purpose. It helped steer the world away from the chaos of unbridled authoritarianism. The form of government seems rigid, yet its inherent immorality and unethical tenets don’t allow for humane people to allow its continuance for relatively long. Nevertheless, the war brought hundreds of millions of people to their death.
So, I give this series the highest recommendation – it is a culmination of excellent storytelling, visual effects, and presentation, while offering the terrible atrocities committed during war. The only negative feedback is that is exceedingly biased toward the Allies’ view. Little of the Axis’s powers soldiers viewpoint is seen or seemingly cared about. I would like to see a similar view of the Axis power done by the same set of producers.
Much like Band of Brothers, which was released in 2001, The Pacific offers viewers a tiny glimpse of what a soldier’s life was like during the Pacific theater during the latter years of WW II. Band of Brothers was arguably better acted and “more familiar” to those inundated by WW II films. Both series are based on monographs written by historians or veterans who had wanted these stories available for others.
Overall, this ten-part series is excellent. Very few times does it lag, as it offers an action packed and thoughtful approach to the atrocities of war based on the aforementioned books. I don’t recommend this series to children, but young adults and older would be best served in watching it with family and/or friends. Adults would be able to offer some insight into why humans embroil themselves in war, which leads to death, corruption, mental anguish, PTSD, amongst many other negative attributes.
WW II, unlike almost any other war, had a greater purpose. It helped steer the world away from the chaos of unbridled authoritarianism. The form of government seems rigid, yet its inherent immorality and unethical tenets don’t allow for humane people to allow its continuance for relatively long. Nevertheless, the war brought hundreds of millions of people to their death.
So, I give this series the highest recommendation – it is a culmination of excellent storytelling, visual effects, and presentation, while offering the terrible atrocities committed during war. The only negative feedback is that is exceedingly biased toward the Allies’ view. Little of the Axis’s powers soldiers viewpoint is seen or seemingly cared about. I would like to see a similar view of the Axis power done by the same set of producers.
November 15, 2021 - Nine-Mile Bridge - Jason A. Meuschke
I enjoyed this story of a haunted bridge from my home state of Missouri, which is filled of haunted tales. Meuschke does a good job developing the main character, Holli, and the supporting cast is varied and interesting. The story takes numerous frightening ideas and conjoins them in an enjoyable and horror-filled tale. There is a great deal of resonance, especially among of US readers, insofar that the characters are easily relatable, the scary story is familiar yet new and strange, and it captures our time well. While there are some technical issues throughout the novel, they will in no way detract from your reading pleasure.
I highly recommend this first book by Mr. Meuschke. I look forward to reading his other novels!
Nine-Mile Bridge by Jason A. Meuschke | Goodreads
I enjoyed this story of a haunted bridge from my home state of Missouri, which is filled of haunted tales. Meuschke does a good job developing the main character, Holli, and the supporting cast is varied and interesting. The story takes numerous frightening ideas and conjoins them in an enjoyable and horror-filled tale. There is a great deal of resonance, especially among of US readers, insofar that the characters are easily relatable, the scary story is familiar yet new and strange, and it captures our time well. While there are some technical issues throughout the novel, they will in no way detract from your reading pleasure.
I highly recommend this first book by Mr. Meuschke. I look forward to reading his other novels!
Nine-Mile Bridge by Jason A. Meuschke | Goodreads
October 18, 2021 - The Dream-Quest of Vellit Boe - Kij Johson
Johnson's short novel is an excellent trip into the Dreamlands from the perspective a university professor seeking out student who has departed.
The Dreamlands, of course, were a creation of H. P. Lovecraft who has become a huge component of the modern horror and fantasy genre insofar that Lovecraftian ideas are seen numerous places.
This story offers a unique perspective of a character who resides within the fantastical realm rather than human traveling to the realm, which was Lovecraft's typical method: send a human into the depths of madness largely due to the unfamiliar. Johnson offers a story in which there is little explaining of the world. You are simply along for the ride with Professor Boe.
By the end of the story, I didn't really want it to end, which is the quality of a great story.
The Dream-Quest of Vellitt Boe by Kij Johnson | Goodreads and Kij Johnson - Writer, dreamer, fritterer.
Johnson's short novel is an excellent trip into the Dreamlands from the perspective a university professor seeking out student who has departed.
The Dreamlands, of course, were a creation of H. P. Lovecraft who has become a huge component of the modern horror and fantasy genre insofar that Lovecraftian ideas are seen numerous places.
This story offers a unique perspective of a character who resides within the fantastical realm rather than human traveling to the realm, which was Lovecraft's typical method: send a human into the depths of madness largely due to the unfamiliar. Johnson offers a story in which there is little explaining of the world. You are simply along for the ride with Professor Boe.
By the end of the story, I didn't really want it to end, which is the quality of a great story.
The Dream-Quest of Vellitt Boe by Kij Johnson | Goodreads and Kij Johnson - Writer, dreamer, fritterer.
October 10, 2021 - Courage is Calling - Ryan Holiday
I think Mr. Holiday's first book on the four virtues of stoicism is worth reading; however, I've not read any of this other works besides the Daily Stoic (which is excellent), so I wonder if his style permeates the other books he's written.
This first book covers an important stoic virtue: courage. There are numerous quotes sprinkled throughout every relatively short chapter, which offer the author a springboard for his numerous points related to building and honing one's courage. I think it is excellent that he is tackling the four virtues in four separate volumes; however, I hope that the next three volumes have more breadth considering the number of sources he attributes to his research.
His bibliography is massive, and considering the level of research he committed to, this volume could have likely been twice as long. On the other hand, I don't think modern audience would have sought a 500+ page book on courage related to stoicism. In essence, those seeking out a shorter volume to bolster your view of stoic courage should look no further.
Courage Is Calling by Ryan Holiday - BookBub and Home - RyanHoliday.net
I think Mr. Holiday's first book on the four virtues of stoicism is worth reading; however, I've not read any of this other works besides the Daily Stoic (which is excellent), so I wonder if his style permeates the other books he's written.
This first book covers an important stoic virtue: courage. There are numerous quotes sprinkled throughout every relatively short chapter, which offer the author a springboard for his numerous points related to building and honing one's courage. I think it is excellent that he is tackling the four virtues in four separate volumes; however, I hope that the next three volumes have more breadth considering the number of sources he attributes to his research.
His bibliography is massive, and considering the level of research he committed to, this volume could have likely been twice as long. On the other hand, I don't think modern audience would have sought a 500+ page book on courage related to stoicism. In essence, those seeking out a shorter volume to bolster your view of stoic courage should look no further.
Courage Is Calling by Ryan Holiday - BookBub and Home - RyanHoliday.net
September 28, 2021 - On Desire - William B Irvine
Exceedingly thought-provoking tome on desire by Prof. Irvine. He offers a wealth of ideas about how to monitor and partially control one's desires insofar that we are driven by desire.
If you are interested in learning more about how desire drives our lives, then this volume is highly recommended. If you are simply interested in learning how different cultures, religions, etc. monitor their desires, then check this out.
Overall, this volume can help you on a path to becoming a better human.
On Desire: Why We Want What We Want by William B. Irvine | Goodreads
Exceedingly thought-provoking tome on desire by Prof. Irvine. He offers a wealth of ideas about how to monitor and partially control one's desires insofar that we are driven by desire.
If you are interested in learning more about how desire drives our lives, then this volume is highly recommended. If you are simply interested in learning how different cultures, religions, etc. monitor their desires, then check this out.
Overall, this volume can help you on a path to becoming a better human.
On Desire: Why We Want What We Want by William B. Irvine | Goodreads
September 13, 2021 - Sirgrus Blackmane: Demihuman Gumshoe & The Dark Elf - William Schlichter
What a great addition to the fantasy noir subgenre!
Schlicter's work offers an exciting entry into the world of fantasy insofar that he offers a veteran dwarf protagonist, Sirgrus, for the reader to adventure with through streets filled with fantastical creatures.
The world serves as a kind of alternate history in which dwarves and orcs fought alongside humans in the trenches of WWI. Schlicter's use of WWI is an excellent backdrop for the story as it allows readers to gain more knowledge of that seemingly forgotten war. PTSD is also a factor in Sirgrus's life and Schlicter does a good job of showing the implications of the malady.
Overall, if you enjoy fantasy and/or detective stories, you'll really enjoy this story. If you've not tried either genre, then you can start here. If are just looking for a fun and well-written story, look no further.
Sirgrus Blackmane Demihuman Gumshoe and The Dark-Elf by William Schlichter | Goodreads
What a great addition to the fantasy noir subgenre!
Schlicter's work offers an exciting entry into the world of fantasy insofar that he offers a veteran dwarf protagonist, Sirgrus, for the reader to adventure with through streets filled with fantastical creatures.
The world serves as a kind of alternate history in which dwarves and orcs fought alongside humans in the trenches of WWI. Schlicter's use of WWI is an excellent backdrop for the story as it allows readers to gain more knowledge of that seemingly forgotten war. PTSD is also a factor in Sirgrus's life and Schlicter does a good job of showing the implications of the malady.
Overall, if you enjoy fantasy and/or detective stories, you'll really enjoy this story. If you've not tried either genre, then you can start here. If are just looking for a fun and well-written story, look no further.
Sirgrus Blackmane Demihuman Gumshoe and The Dark-Elf by William Schlichter | Goodreads
September 13, 2021 - Writing Down the Bones - Natalie Goldberg
Goldberg's brief book on writing advice has been well-received by authors for decades. The book offers well-written and short chapters on a wide variety of subjects, such as write anywhere.
She focuses heavily on journaling in notebooks and poetry, and her guide was written before computers became more commonplace, not to mention the numerous apps available to assist with writing.
Despite those limitations, Goldberg's ideas ring true about writing, no matter the timeframe. I believe my favorite is "A writer's job is to make the ordinary come alive, to awaken ourselves to the specialness of simply being."
I recommend this guide for anyone seeking out information on what writing is about, and I recommend it for anyone who is an author - no matter the type of work, as her tips are universal.
Writing Down the Bones: Freeing the Writer Within by Natalie Goldberg | Goodreads
Goldberg's brief book on writing advice has been well-received by authors for decades. The book offers well-written and short chapters on a wide variety of subjects, such as write anywhere.
She focuses heavily on journaling in notebooks and poetry, and her guide was written before computers became more commonplace, not to mention the numerous apps available to assist with writing.
Despite those limitations, Goldberg's ideas ring true about writing, no matter the timeframe. I believe my favorite is "A writer's job is to make the ordinary come alive, to awaken ourselves to the specialness of simply being."
I recommend this guide for anyone seeking out information on what writing is about, and I recommend it for anyone who is an author - no matter the type of work, as her tips are universal.
Writing Down the Bones: Freeing the Writer Within by Natalie Goldberg | Goodreads
September 4, 2021 - Lisey's Story - Stephen King - (audiobook)
Lisey's Story, as an audiobook, was exceedingly well-done. Mare Winningham took King's story and brought it alive in a rare way. Many times, audio book readers simply read the story with little gusto. Winningham offered clear pictures of the characters through accents, etc.
The story itself is one of King's best, that I have read. According to King, Lisey is one of his most favorite characters, and his careful construction of the story around her is worth studying for character development.
The book is long, yet considering the scope of the story largely through Lisey's lens, the longer story is necessary and offers a clear picture of someone struggling with deep loss.
Lisey's Story by Stephen King | Goodreads
Lisey's Story, as an audiobook, was exceedingly well-done. Mare Winningham took King's story and brought it alive in a rare way. Many times, audio book readers simply read the story with little gusto. Winningham offered clear pictures of the characters through accents, etc.
The story itself is one of King's best, that I have read. According to King, Lisey is one of his most favorite characters, and his careful construction of the story around her is worth studying for character development.
The book is long, yet considering the scope of the story largely through Lisey's lens, the longer story is necessary and offers a clear picture of someone struggling with deep loss.
Lisey's Story by Stephen King | Goodreads
September 3, 2021 - A Common Person - R. M. Kinder
Kinder's collection is outstanding. Each story offers a different insight into the many facets imbedded within humanity: darkness, love, and beauty are just a few examples.
Mostly importantly, each of the stories will resonate with the reader. Stories featuring the love of a pet, the loss of a family member, and relatively innocent mistakes that cause a cascade of unanticipated issues.
Highly recommended!
A Common Person and Other Stories by R.M. Kinder | Goodreads and Home (rmkinder.net)
Kinder's collection is outstanding. Each story offers a different insight into the many facets imbedded within humanity: darkness, love, and beauty are just a few examples.
Mostly importantly, each of the stories will resonate with the reader. Stories featuring the love of a pet, the loss of a family member, and relatively innocent mistakes that cause a cascade of unanticipated issues.
Highly recommended!
A Common Person and Other Stories by R.M. Kinder | Goodreads and Home (rmkinder.net)
August 29, 2021 - A Man in Full - Tom Wolfe
I am usually hesitant to give novels a full five stars, but this one deserves it.
Wolfe's ability to build characters, major and minor, is worth studying, if you are a writer, and simply enjoyable, if you are reading the novel for pleasure.
Caveat: be prepared to learn about Stoicism, which is something that should be taught more frequently. Also, I find it interesting that the author's name is in a larger font than the actual title of the book; it has a direct correlation to how famous or popular an author is.
A Man in Full by Tom Wolfe | Goodreads
I am usually hesitant to give novels a full five stars, but this one deserves it.
Wolfe's ability to build characters, major and minor, is worth studying, if you are a writer, and simply enjoyable, if you are reading the novel for pleasure.
Caveat: be prepared to learn about Stoicism, which is something that should be taught more frequently. Also, I find it interesting that the author's name is in a larger font than the actual title of the book; it has a direct correlation to how famous or popular an author is.
A Man in Full by Tom Wolfe | Goodreads
July 2, 2021 - Marcus Aurelius – Meditations – The Annotated Edition = translated, introduced, and edited by Robin Waterfield
Marcus Aurelius is considered the wisest of the Roman emperors. Reading his meditations or journals helps one to understand why.
One of, if the most powerful people in the world, took considerable time to write down his thoughts, which are divided up into notebooks. The thoughts are those of a person seeking to better himself and the world around him. He delved heavily into Stoicism, which is bound by four virtues: wisdom, courage, moderation, and justice. All four virtues are bounded within logic, physics, and ethics.
Between those seven ideas, a studious Stoic can offer the world an effectivity positivity. But, as the Meditations offer, a Stoic, such as Marcus, requires constant vigilance, study, kindness, and thoughtfulness to stay on a path of virtuous living.
I highly recommend this volume – Marcus’s words are exceedingly thoughtful for anyone wanting to live a virtuous life and anyone wanting to follow a Stoic life. Annotations abound and offer an excellent glimpse into the context of many of the Meditations.
Meditations: The Annotated Edition by Marcus Aurelius | Goodreads
Marcus Aurelius is considered the wisest of the Roman emperors. Reading his meditations or journals helps one to understand why.
One of, if the most powerful people in the world, took considerable time to write down his thoughts, which are divided up into notebooks. The thoughts are those of a person seeking to better himself and the world around him. He delved heavily into Stoicism, which is bound by four virtues: wisdom, courage, moderation, and justice. All four virtues are bounded within logic, physics, and ethics.
Between those seven ideas, a studious Stoic can offer the world an effectivity positivity. But, as the Meditations offer, a Stoic, such as Marcus, requires constant vigilance, study, kindness, and thoughtfulness to stay on a path of virtuous living.
I highly recommend this volume – Marcus’s words are exceedingly thoughtful for anyone wanting to live a virtuous life and anyone wanting to follow a Stoic life. Annotations abound and offer an excellent glimpse into the context of many of the Meditations.
Meditations: The Annotated Edition by Marcus Aurelius | Goodreads
May 17, 2021 - Kaizen - Sarah Harvey
This short book about kaizen or “good change” offers readers a chance to learn more about making small changes in one’s life that will lead to self-improvement. If you are interested in learning relatively stress-free methods of making small changes in your life, then this is for you. It has great imagery throughout, so that helps with the subject matter.
Kaizen: The Japanese Method for Transforming Habits, One Small Step at a Time by Sarah Harvey | Goodreads
This short book about kaizen or “good change” offers readers a chance to learn more about making small changes in one’s life that will lead to self-improvement. If you are interested in learning relatively stress-free methods of making small changes in your life, then this is for you. It has great imagery throughout, so that helps with the subject matter.
Kaizen: The Japanese Method for Transforming Habits, One Small Step at a Time by Sarah Harvey | Goodreads
May 17, 2021 - Winter's Heart - Robert Jordan
This is my third reading of this volume since its initial publication, and I enjoyed more it than I expected on this read through. Many readers decry Jordan for getting bogged down into detail during these “middle” books of the series.
I found this volume refreshing insofar that one significantly major issue was resolved. Several mysteries were resolved in ways that were satisfying and fun to read. (I won’t give spoilers about those.) It also helped flesh out further characters even further such as Cadsuane, Rand, and Matt.
If you’ve read this far through WOT, know that the series is worth the trip.
Winter's Heart (The Wheel of Time, #9) by Robert Jordan | Goodreads
This is my third reading of this volume since its initial publication, and I enjoyed more it than I expected on this read through. Many readers decry Jordan for getting bogged down into detail during these “middle” books of the series.
I found this volume refreshing insofar that one significantly major issue was resolved. Several mysteries were resolved in ways that were satisfying and fun to read. (I won’t give spoilers about those.) It also helped flesh out further characters even further such as Cadsuane, Rand, and Matt.
If you’ve read this far through WOT, know that the series is worth the trip.
Winter's Heart (The Wheel of Time, #9) by Robert Jordan | Goodreads
April 18, 2021 - Letters from a Stoic – Seneca
Seneca’s letters, now nearly 2000 years old, offer a guide to modern readers about what Stoicism boils down to: a path to tranquility.
The letters serve as more than simple guide, though. They offer Seneca’s thoughts on friendship, wealth, ethics, life, death, and emotion. The letters also deserve a strict focus insofar that one is plumbing the depths of wisdom that we all need to consider. Philosophers like Seneca deserve several read throughs – at least four times, in my opinion, to better understand and grasp the knowledge. Fortunately, this volume is relatively short and can broken up into the letters individually – perhaps one/day – without needing to read the entire volume in just a few sittings.
Also, don’t let the word Stoicism bog you down. In the modern parlance, Stoicism tends to evoke the ideas stodginess, being boring, rigid, and unyielding.
Rather, Stoicism can help anyone learn how to better cope with the many stresses that our society throws at us.
Letters from a Stoic by Seneca | Goodreads
Seneca’s letters, now nearly 2000 years old, offer a guide to modern readers about what Stoicism boils down to: a path to tranquility.
The letters serve as more than simple guide, though. They offer Seneca’s thoughts on friendship, wealth, ethics, life, death, and emotion. The letters also deserve a strict focus insofar that one is plumbing the depths of wisdom that we all need to consider. Philosophers like Seneca deserve several read throughs – at least four times, in my opinion, to better understand and grasp the knowledge. Fortunately, this volume is relatively short and can broken up into the letters individually – perhaps one/day – without needing to read the entire volume in just a few sittings.
Also, don’t let the word Stoicism bog you down. In the modern parlance, Stoicism tends to evoke the ideas stodginess, being boring, rigid, and unyielding.
Rather, Stoicism can help anyone learn how to better cope with the many stresses that our society throws at us.
Letters from a Stoic by Seneca | Goodreads
April 12, 2021 - Soundtracks: The Surprising Solution to Overthinking – Jon Acuff
Fantastic addition to Acuff's collection. In my opinion, the best of his volumes I’ve read so far. The best insofar that every person suffers from overthinking and Acuff offers clear thoughts on how to overcome the problem. We, as humans, tend to overthink all the time about things that should either have relegated into oblivion or simply learned how to control the background noise of the soundtracks we create for ourselves.
I won’t spoil Acuff’s volume for you, as I highly recommend this thoughtful, succinct, and well-researched volume about how to correct overthinking.
Soundtracks: The Surprising Solution to Overthinking by Jon Acuff | Goodreads or Soundtracks | A Book by New York Times Bestseller, Jon Acuff (soundtracksbook.com)
Fantastic addition to Acuff's collection. In my opinion, the best of his volumes I’ve read so far. The best insofar that every person suffers from overthinking and Acuff offers clear thoughts on how to overcome the problem. We, as humans, tend to overthink all the time about things that should either have relegated into oblivion or simply learned how to control the background noise of the soundtracks we create for ourselves.
I won’t spoil Acuff’s volume for you, as I highly recommend this thoughtful, succinct, and well-researched volume about how to correct overthinking.
Soundtracks: The Surprising Solution to Overthinking by Jon Acuff | Goodreads or Soundtracks | A Book by New York Times Bestseller, Jon Acuff (soundtracksbook.com)
April 5, 2021 - The Path of Daggers (Bk 8 Wheel of Time) - Robert Jordan
I enjoy all of the WOT books, and I've been working through them as audiobooks for this re-read. (At least my fifth reread up to book 10. I've only read BKs 11-14 once.)
The books are exceedingly meticulous in detail and the story is fantastic overall; however, this volume is not even in the top 5 of the 14 volumes. This is one of several volumes that simply keeps the story moving forward with little happening - other than watching madness growing ever-present among the men who can channel. Aes Sedai intrigue is prevalent throughout - essentially, political fighting at its finest or at its most boring, if you despise politics.
Jordan does an excellent job of capturing all the little fine points of politics mixed in with people who have fantastic abilities to alter reality. Rand's descent into madness is sometimes horrifying to observe, at least for those who have witnessed devastating mental health illnesses.
It is interesting to see so many adolescents thrust into positions of extreme power, over the course of the entire series. Nearly all of the main characters - Rand, Egwene, Elayne, and Perrin, for example - haven't even hit 20 years of age, yet they are forced to grapple with issues that most adults would find crippling.
I do wonder how well this story will age as the decades progress. Jordan's magic split between male and female seems contrived sometimes, as in it simply creates a "more interesting story". Basically, no one person can access both halves of magical part of the universe. The constant gender stereotypes do grow somewhat tiresome, but it is very reminiscent of real folks who are blinded by their own racial and gender stereotypes.
If anything, Jordan was a storyteller, and anyone wanting to enjoy good fantasy should at least read part of his story. For anyone wanting to write good fantasy, then you should examine Jordan's many strengths and his subtle weaknesses - arguably, the worst weakness is his fondness for over-describing what ever single character wore. :)
Like any series that is now 30 years old or older, the reader is able to get more out of the story with the more readings they commit to over time.
For example, having read these novels in my late-teens, I used to relate to the "younger" characters, such as Rand and Mat, who were trying to make a place in the world. Now I can relate better to the "older" characters, such as Cadsuane, who are trying to guide the younger folks as well as they can through some of the most difficult times.
The Path of Daggers (The Wheel of Time, #8) by Robert Jordan | Goodreads
I enjoy all of the WOT books, and I've been working through them as audiobooks for this re-read. (At least my fifth reread up to book 10. I've only read BKs 11-14 once.)
The books are exceedingly meticulous in detail and the story is fantastic overall; however, this volume is not even in the top 5 of the 14 volumes. This is one of several volumes that simply keeps the story moving forward with little happening - other than watching madness growing ever-present among the men who can channel. Aes Sedai intrigue is prevalent throughout - essentially, political fighting at its finest or at its most boring, if you despise politics.
Jordan does an excellent job of capturing all the little fine points of politics mixed in with people who have fantastic abilities to alter reality. Rand's descent into madness is sometimes horrifying to observe, at least for those who have witnessed devastating mental health illnesses.
It is interesting to see so many adolescents thrust into positions of extreme power, over the course of the entire series. Nearly all of the main characters - Rand, Egwene, Elayne, and Perrin, for example - haven't even hit 20 years of age, yet they are forced to grapple with issues that most adults would find crippling.
I do wonder how well this story will age as the decades progress. Jordan's magic split between male and female seems contrived sometimes, as in it simply creates a "more interesting story". Basically, no one person can access both halves of magical part of the universe. The constant gender stereotypes do grow somewhat tiresome, but it is very reminiscent of real folks who are blinded by their own racial and gender stereotypes.
If anything, Jordan was a storyteller, and anyone wanting to enjoy good fantasy should at least read part of his story. For anyone wanting to write good fantasy, then you should examine Jordan's many strengths and his subtle weaknesses - arguably, the worst weakness is his fondness for over-describing what ever single character wore. :)
Like any series that is now 30 years old or older, the reader is able to get more out of the story with the more readings they commit to over time.
For example, having read these novels in my late-teens, I used to relate to the "younger" characters, such as Rand and Mat, who were trying to make a place in the world. Now I can relate better to the "older" characters, such as Cadsuane, who are trying to guide the younger folks as well as they can through some of the most difficult times.
The Path of Daggers (The Wheel of Time, #8) by Robert Jordan | Goodreads
March 29, 2021 - Consolations - David Whyte
Whyte created a masterpiece with this short, yet fantastic volume. He covers his thoughts about various words in the form of mini-essays, such as Alone, Unrequited, and Solace.
Each mini-essay is an effort in mediation, and several of the essays have been turned into meditations through Sam Harris's website/app Waking Up.
Overall, each essay left me with a sense of pressing forward to enjoy each bit of wisdom Whyte offered his reader. One reading is not enough - each essay requires further evaluation and meditation so as to grasp the fullness of the work.
Consolations: The Solace, Nourishment and Underlying Meaning of Everyday Words by David Whyte | Goodreads
Whyte created a masterpiece with this short, yet fantastic volume. He covers his thoughts about various words in the form of mini-essays, such as Alone, Unrequited, and Solace.
Each mini-essay is an effort in mediation, and several of the essays have been turned into meditations through Sam Harris's website/app Waking Up.
Overall, each essay left me with a sense of pressing forward to enjoy each bit of wisdom Whyte offered his reader. One reading is not enough - each essay requires further evaluation and meditation so as to grasp the fullness of the work.
Consolations: The Solace, Nourishment and Underlying Meaning of Everyday Words by David Whyte | Goodreads
March 19, 2021 - Baptism of Fire - Andrzej Sapkowski
This third full volume in the Witcher series offers an exciting story. Sapkowski is a fine author of fantasy, especially a story offering a clear vision of a world fraught with war, magic, and supernatural beings.
Of course, Geralt is the main character, but he is accompanied by numerous companions who are clearly defined and unforgettable. Dandelion (Jaskier in the show) is a constant source of humor, and he will not disappoint you insofar as you see his and Geralt’s friendship grow. Other friends – including a vampire – join with Geralt to find Ciri.
The world building is excellent. Sapkowski interweaves the exploits of the characters within their world without info-dumping for paragraphs. In essence, you feel part of the place he describes.
Highly recommend this volume, and I look forward to starting Book 4.
Baptism of Fire (The Witcher, #3) by Andrzej Sapkowski | Goodreads
This third full volume in the Witcher series offers an exciting story. Sapkowski is a fine author of fantasy, especially a story offering a clear vision of a world fraught with war, magic, and supernatural beings.
Of course, Geralt is the main character, but he is accompanied by numerous companions who are clearly defined and unforgettable. Dandelion (Jaskier in the show) is a constant source of humor, and he will not disappoint you insofar as you see his and Geralt’s friendship grow. Other friends – including a vampire – join with Geralt to find Ciri.
The world building is excellent. Sapkowski interweaves the exploits of the characters within their world without info-dumping for paragraphs. In essence, you feel part of the place he describes.
Highly recommend this volume, and I look forward to starting Book 4.
Baptism of Fire (The Witcher, #3) by Andrzej Sapkowski | Goodreads
February 2021 - The Ministry of the Future - Kim Stanley Robinson
While I enjoyed this novel, it was more of a stream of consciousness story related to climate change.
Many negative reviews have been posted, but I enjoyed that component of the story. Kept you on your toes, so to speak, regarding the storyline itself. Tiny vignettes throughout the novel offered little substance, but were fun to read. I would have enjoyed more character development for the few main characters, but the point of the story, in my opinion, was simply how humanity is going to deal with climate change.
If you are at all interested in speculative fiction related to climate change, check this out.
The Ministry for the Future by Kim Stanley Robinson | Goodreads
While I enjoyed this novel, it was more of a stream of consciousness story related to climate change.
Many negative reviews have been posted, but I enjoyed that component of the story. Kept you on your toes, so to speak, regarding the storyline itself. Tiny vignettes throughout the novel offered little substance, but were fun to read. I would have enjoyed more character development for the few main characters, but the point of the story, in my opinion, was simply how humanity is going to deal with climate change.
If you are at all interested in speculative fiction related to climate change, check this out.
The Ministry for the Future by Kim Stanley Robinson | Goodreads
February 2021 - Start with Why - by Simon Sinek
I enjoyed this book, but it somewhat repetitious seemingly to have extra information, enough to fill a 200+ page book. Realistically, the premise of the book could have been shaved down to 100+ pages without losing the principle within, which is rather important.
https://www.amazon.com/dp/B002Q6XUE4/ref=cm_sw_em_r_mt_dp_M52ZFZAGQ9HX3T96XZ53
I enjoyed this book, but it somewhat repetitious seemingly to have extra information, enough to fill a 200+ page book. Realistically, the premise of the book could have been shaved down to 100+ pages without losing the principle within, which is rather important.
https://www.amazon.com/dp/B002Q6XUE4/ref=cm_sw_em_r_mt_dp_M52ZFZAGQ9HX3T96XZ53
January 22, 2021 - Outliers - by Malcolm Gladwell
Gladwell offers a brief overview of the arguably most important component of success: hard work.
He estimates that around 10,000 of diligent practice leads to a successful pursuit. High intelligence is not necessarily the primary issue, but simply having enough intelligence to work on the pursuit. Gladwell seems to have made the 10,000-hour amount relatively famous; however, very few people seem to track their hours – most folks simply look back at the time they’ve spent, the successful ones anyway, and 10,000 hours was the minimum for most. Other factors that many successful people tend to overshadow luck and available resources, such as the ability and time to work on such pursuits. He delves into Bill Gates’ extraordinary success and realizes that he was exceptionally lucky, insofar of the place in which he was born and the resources he had access to.
Overall, I recommend the brief read for Gladwell’s reminder that sometimes lots and lots of hard work will open doors.
Outliers by Malcolm Gladwell | Hachette Book Group | Malcolm Gladwell (gladwellbooks.com)
Gladwell offers a brief overview of the arguably most important component of success: hard work.
He estimates that around 10,000 of diligent practice leads to a successful pursuit. High intelligence is not necessarily the primary issue, but simply having enough intelligence to work on the pursuit. Gladwell seems to have made the 10,000-hour amount relatively famous; however, very few people seem to track their hours – most folks simply look back at the time they’ve spent, the successful ones anyway, and 10,000 hours was the minimum for most. Other factors that many successful people tend to overshadow luck and available resources, such as the ability and time to work on such pursuits. He delves into Bill Gates’ extraordinary success and realizes that he was exceptionally lucky, insofar of the place in which he was born and the resources he had access to.
Overall, I recommend the brief read for Gladwell’s reminder that sometimes lots and lots of hard work will open doors.
Outliers by Malcolm Gladwell | Hachette Book Group | Malcolm Gladwell (gladwellbooks.com)
January 20, 2021 - The Crown of Swords - Vol 7 Wheel of Time - by Robert Jordan
Yet another excellent volume of Jordan’s Wheel of Time.
As I finished this audiobook, which was at least the third time I’ve listened or read it, I remember that I am nearing the end of his books. Jordan really was a master of storytelling, yet, even I, grow somewhat burdened by his exceptional focus on the clothing in which characters wear. Instead of being weary of the descriptions I smirk from time to time at the unnecessary descriptions. Nevertheless, Jordan was a master of keeping a huge cast of characters in mind.
A Crown of Swords - Wikipedia
Yet another excellent volume of Jordan’s Wheel of Time.
As I finished this audiobook, which was at least the third time I’ve listened or read it, I remember that I am nearing the end of his books. Jordan really was a master of storytelling, yet, even I, grow somewhat burdened by his exceptional focus on the clothing in which characters wear. Instead of being weary of the descriptions I smirk from time to time at the unnecessary descriptions. Nevertheless, Jordan was a master of keeping a huge cast of characters in mind.
A Crown of Swords - Wikipedia
January 6, 2021 - The Art of Ghost of Tsushima
This was a gift, and I was pleased to receive it considering how much I enjoyed the source material. Japanese culture and history have always been fascinating to me. While I have not yet been able to travel there in person, I’ve used many sources to “travel” there through books, film, and art. While this book is art of a fictional version of Japanese culture, it does offer the viewer some insight into the beauty of Japan. The source material is a fantastic escape into the world of samurai intrigue many centuries ago on the island of Tsushima – even if you never play the game, I encourage you to check out this book of the game’s art.
The Art of Ghost of Tsushima by Sucker Punch Productions | Goodreads
This was a gift, and I was pleased to receive it considering how much I enjoyed the source material. Japanese culture and history have always been fascinating to me. While I have not yet been able to travel there in person, I’ve used many sources to “travel” there through books, film, and art. While this book is art of a fictional version of Japanese culture, it does offer the viewer some insight into the beauty of Japan. The source material is a fantastic escape into the world of samurai intrigue many centuries ago on the island of Tsushima – even if you never play the game, I encourage you to check out this book of the game’s art.
The Art of Ghost of Tsushima by Sucker Punch Productions | Goodreads
January 5, 2021 - The Queen's Gambit - by Walter Tevis
I recently watched the recently released Netflix series by the same name, and I was impressed. The acting, direction, pacing, and attention to detail are worth watching. Of course, after reading the book, I can see why the show did so well.
The book, though, is a masterpiece of writing, in my opinion. Tevis’s pacing and ability to capture a scene is interesting to study and a joy to read. It is interesting to see the game of chess, in my view, become a character itself. Beth, the main character, not only struggles with her own internal and external conflicts, but she has conflicts with chess. How to get better. How to overcome its seemingly infinite possibilities to see cracks in her own weaknesses and her opponents’ weaknesses or mistakes.
Even if you don’t enjoy chess (or even games) you’ll likely enjoy this story. It is a story that can resonate with anyone – how to overcome life’s challenges, despite being knocked down on occasion. How to learn how to ask for help and accept help that is offered in order to become a better person. To see how much time it takes to become better a something, and that no matter how much natural talent someone has, any skill requires many hours of singular focus.
Considering how closely the show used the book, that alone should be enough of an indication to the book’s quality. Adaptations are hard – they usually fail in many cases, especially in the book to movie/show format. Things that are changed for the sake of the show’s needs, etc.; however, this book’s quality needed very few changes.
The Queen's Gambit by Walter Tevis | Goodreads
I recently watched the recently released Netflix series by the same name, and I was impressed. The acting, direction, pacing, and attention to detail are worth watching. Of course, after reading the book, I can see why the show did so well.
The book, though, is a masterpiece of writing, in my opinion. Tevis’s pacing and ability to capture a scene is interesting to study and a joy to read. It is interesting to see the game of chess, in my view, become a character itself. Beth, the main character, not only struggles with her own internal and external conflicts, but she has conflicts with chess. How to get better. How to overcome its seemingly infinite possibilities to see cracks in her own weaknesses and her opponents’ weaknesses or mistakes.
Even if you don’t enjoy chess (or even games) you’ll likely enjoy this story. It is a story that can resonate with anyone – how to overcome life’s challenges, despite being knocked down on occasion. How to learn how to ask for help and accept help that is offered in order to become a better person. To see how much time it takes to become better a something, and that no matter how much natural talent someone has, any skill requires many hours of singular focus.
Considering how closely the show used the book, that alone should be enough of an indication to the book’s quality. Adaptations are hard – they usually fail in many cases, especially in the book to movie/show format. Things that are changed for the sake of the show’s needs, etc.; however, this book’s quality needed very few changes.
The Queen's Gambit by Walter Tevis | Goodreads
December 14, 2020 - The Invisible Life of Addie Larue - by V. E. Schwab
My first foray into Schwab's work. Well-written fantasy about a young woman who makes a decision that will haunt her for centuries. I don't want to offer too much information, so as to not spoil the story. Highly recommended!
My first foray into Schwab's work. Well-written fantasy about a young woman who makes a decision that will haunt her for centuries. I don't want to offer too much information, so as to not spoil the story. Highly recommended!
December 13, 2020 - A Guide to the Good Life - by William B. Irvine
Since my undergraduate studies of philosophy, I have been fascinated by Stoicism; however, very little of the Stoics was covered in any particular class. Professor Irvine, fortunately, realized that the Stoics were not being given their proper treatment. He has written numerous volumes on how Stoicism can relate to your life and how you can implement the philosophy of tranquility into your own life. This particular volume is eye-opening insofar that it helps one understand that certain difficulties in life, such as being insulted, can be shrugged off. Negative visualization is a practice that can be exceptionally helpful to those seeking to appreciate life more fully.
I highly encourage this volume.
Since my undergraduate studies of philosophy, I have been fascinated by Stoicism; however, very little of the Stoics was covered in any particular class. Professor Irvine, fortunately, realized that the Stoics were not being given their proper treatment. He has written numerous volumes on how Stoicism can relate to your life and how you can implement the philosophy of tranquility into your own life. This particular volume is eye-opening insofar that it helps one understand that certain difficulties in life, such as being insulted, can be shrugged off. Negative visualization is a practice that can be exceptionally helpful to those seeking to appreciate life more fully.
I highly encourage this volume.
November 17, 2020 - The Last of Us Part 2 - by Naughty Dog Games
I am hesitant to include a video game review here, as my focus is on books; however, when a story, no matter the format, is presented in this way, then I will do my best to offer folks a glimpse of other media that offers a wealth of storytelling and fantastic gameplay.
Simply put, this is one of the best games I’ve played on any gaming system. (While I don’t play many games anymore, I do seek out anything that will broaden my storytelling ability – this game is one of those things.) It was released in June 2020, and it has already gained a wide variety of positive reviews.
It is, of course, a sequel to The Last of Us, which arrived in mid-2013 and was considered the best game of that year. Fans of Part 1 waited eagerly since 2013 for this sequel. Naughty Dog did not disappoint. If anything, Part 1, in my mind, is the prologue to this fine game. (Part 1 is also one of my favorites, too, for reasons I’ll delve into below.) Part 2 takes the main characters of Part 1 – Joel and Ellie – and puts them though a path of destruction, which I will not spoil for those willing to give the game a chance. It also introduces another main character – Abby – whose story I will not spoil, but it is heart-wrenching and ties back to Part 1 in an unexpected, yet perfect way. In essence, Part 2 took all the best portions of Part 1 and enhanced them into what I would consider a masterpiece of storytelling, art, and gameplay. The game is beautiful visually; exploring the world within the game should offer any author inspiration in their own stories for how to show rather than tell.
Part 1 took traditional shooting/RPG games and stood the genre on its head. The gameplay itself was unique, but the storytelling of a world destroyed by a virus that mutated much of the human population into fearsome killing machines is a bit of zombie trope, but it is done in a new and exciting way. The bulk of the game is 20 years after the virus decimated humanity – humanity is still struggling with the aftereffects of nature taking its original place on earth rather than humanity attempting to have dominion over nature.
If you are not a gamer, these particular two games may change your desire to try something new. If you are a gamer, then these two games are a must-play.
I am hesitant to include a video game review here, as my focus is on books; however, when a story, no matter the format, is presented in this way, then I will do my best to offer folks a glimpse of other media that offers a wealth of storytelling and fantastic gameplay.
Simply put, this is one of the best games I’ve played on any gaming system. (While I don’t play many games anymore, I do seek out anything that will broaden my storytelling ability – this game is one of those things.) It was released in June 2020, and it has already gained a wide variety of positive reviews.
It is, of course, a sequel to The Last of Us, which arrived in mid-2013 and was considered the best game of that year. Fans of Part 1 waited eagerly since 2013 for this sequel. Naughty Dog did not disappoint. If anything, Part 1, in my mind, is the prologue to this fine game. (Part 1 is also one of my favorites, too, for reasons I’ll delve into below.) Part 2 takes the main characters of Part 1 – Joel and Ellie – and puts them though a path of destruction, which I will not spoil for those willing to give the game a chance. It also introduces another main character – Abby – whose story I will not spoil, but it is heart-wrenching and ties back to Part 1 in an unexpected, yet perfect way. In essence, Part 2 took all the best portions of Part 1 and enhanced them into what I would consider a masterpiece of storytelling, art, and gameplay. The game is beautiful visually; exploring the world within the game should offer any author inspiration in their own stories for how to show rather than tell.
Part 1 took traditional shooting/RPG games and stood the genre on its head. The gameplay itself was unique, but the storytelling of a world destroyed by a virus that mutated much of the human population into fearsome killing machines is a bit of zombie trope, but it is done in a new and exciting way. The bulk of the game is 20 years after the virus decimated humanity – humanity is still struggling with the aftereffects of nature taking its original place on earth rather than humanity attempting to have dominion over nature.
If you are not a gamer, these particular two games may change your desire to try something new. If you are a gamer, then these two games are a must-play.
November 15, 2020 - Sapiens: A Graphic History, The Birth of Humankind Volume One - by Yuval Noah Harari, David Vandermeulen, and Daniel Casanave
This first volume, which is a graphic novel adaption of Harari’s tome Sapiens, offers readers an excellent introduction into the species of Homo Sapiens. It clearly shows literally in a visual format how at least six various human species lived on planet earth while offers cogent ideas on how sapiens rose to the top. The cognitive revolution offers the most convincing theory for the rise. The tome covers a wealth of information and should be read by any person with a thirst for knowledge about humanity and the world its inhabits.
This first volume, which is a graphic novel adaption of Harari’s tome Sapiens, offers readers an excellent introduction into the species of Homo Sapiens. It clearly shows literally in a visual format how at least six various human species lived on planet earth while offers cogent ideas on how sapiens rose to the top. The cognitive revolution offers the most convincing theory for the rise. The tome covers a wealth of information and should be read by any person with a thirst for knowledge about humanity and the world its inhabits.
November 13, 2020 - A Life on Our Planet - by David Attenborough
This brief volume offers an excellent succinct view of one man's vision on how to to better humanity and the world.
While it is brief, take your time to enjoy each sentence as it will help you understand the larger picture, which includes how humanity has made terrible mistakes and how we can attempt to recover.
This brief volume offers an excellent succinct view of one man's vision on how to to better humanity and the world.
While it is brief, take your time to enjoy each sentence as it will help you understand the larger picture, which includes how humanity has made terrible mistakes and how we can attempt to recover.
November 11, 2020 - The Testaments - by Margaret Atwood
This second volume The Handmaid’s Tale is a well-written story. For any author to tackle a now-famous story of their own in such a way is fascinating to say the least.
If you enjoyed book 1, The Handmaid's Tale, then you’ll likely enjoy this one, too. Click here for the book link. Click here for The Handmaid's Tale.
This second volume The Handmaid’s Tale is a well-written story. For any author to tackle a now-famous story of their own in such a way is fascinating to say the least.
If you enjoyed book 1, The Handmaid's Tale, then you’ll likely enjoy this one, too. Click here for the book link. Click here for The Handmaid's Tale.
July 26, 2019 - Go Set a Watchmen - by Harper Lee
This novel is set years after Lee's monumental To Kill a Mockinbird. To say the least, it is worth a read, just don't expect it to be a sequel. This book follows its own path and had no intentions of following-up directly on the events of the first book. A short read and good story - I recommend with 3 out 5 stars.
This novel is set years after Lee's monumental To Kill a Mockinbird. To say the least, it is worth a read, just don't expect it to be a sequel. This book follows its own path and had no intentions of following-up directly on the events of the first book. A short read and good story - I recommend with 3 out 5 stars.
September 24, 2019 - Blood of Elves - Andrzej Sapkowski
Excellent novel in the Witcher series, and the first I've read in the series. The books led to vastly popular video game and soon-to-be move series on Netflix. If you are looking for a fascinating fantasy story filled with fascinating characters and magic, then look no further.
Excellent novel in the Witcher series, and the first I've read in the series. The books led to vastly popular video game and soon-to-be move series on Netflix. If you are looking for a fascinating fantasy story filled with fascinating characters and magic, then look no further.
