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101 Most Influential People Who Never Lived by Allan Lazar, Dan Karlan & Jeremy Salter
What do Pandora, Santa Claus, Uncle Tom, Tarzan and J.R. Ewing have in common? They are members of an exclusive
club, the club of influential people who never lived. Lazar, Karlan and Salter realized that John Q. Public believes in theatrical
and literary personalities. These imagined characters grow in authority and popularity until their actions, virtues and vices
become part of everyday life. Let’s look at some of these influential people. Helen of Troy
was beautiful beyond compare. Her influence manifests itself in countless ways every day. The playwright Marlowe was inspired
by Helen when he wrote "the face that launched a thousand ships." Godzilla, King Kong and
the Loch Ness monster have all succeeded in frightening the unsuspecting public via movies, televison and books.
Sherlock Holmes, indubitably the most recognized detective in the history of the world, was based partially
on an acquaintance of Arthur Doyle’s. Holmes grew in acceptance and believability. Eventually, he became the genesis
and catalyst for other fictional detectives. My personal favorite "influential character who never
lived" is Ebenezer Scrooge. Before he learned the value of compassion, he personified stinginess and crotchetiness.
Lazar, Karlan and Salter planted their tongues firmly in their cheeks while compiling this list and writing
their essays about each character. The authors carefully evaluated the difference between "popular" and "influential" basing
their decisions partially on "the number of people affected and the depth of impact." Readers may not agree with all the choices
but readers will recognize most, if not all, the influential people who made the list.
1001 Events That Made America: A Patriot’s Handbook by Alan Axelrod
In his introduction, Axelrod explains the difference between bare-bones history and more narrative histoire.
He then proclaims that his book falls in the middle of the two and thereby combines a chronology with insightful narrative.
Axelrod lists all the major historical dates but also allows his whim to single out a few "biggests, greatests and worsts."
Let’s look at some of Axelrod’s entries. How did America first get its name? Through
a mistake in 1507 when a German geographer attributed the discovery of the New World to the Italian navigator Amerigo Vespucci
instead of Columbus. Less than sixty years after this misnaming, Old World colonial interests clash in the New World.
When was capital punishment established in the American colonies? In September 1630 when John Billington
was hanged for murder. When was the first American patent granted? In 1641 when Samuel Winslow received
a patent for his salt-making process. Meanwhile, the New World became a hotbed of Old World colonization
with British and French forces aligning themselves with Native Indians of different tribes. When
was the first U.S. census recorded? In 1790, the census recorded the nation’s population at almost four million, including
nearly 700 hundred thousand slaves. When America entered the 19th century, this relatively
new nation was plagued by political, judicial and economic struggles. But the wheels of progress don’t stop, they merely
slow down at times. America the Beautiful soon found herself blossoming as a protector against foreign colonization, a powerhouse
of economic might, a fertile ground for art and literature, an establishment of education, and as an example of democratic
government. 1001 Events . . . can be read on different levels. Axelrod’s book
serves as a primer of U.S. history, as a collection of factoids for history buffs, and as a collection of brief escapes from
the daily grind. In other words, this book is fun to read.
All the Presidents’ Pastries: Twenty-Five Years in the White House by Roland Mesnier and Christian
Malard
Five US presidents; Jimmy Carter, Ronald Reagan, George H. W. Bush, Bill Clinton and George W. Bush; have
enjoyed the luxurious and sumptuous pastries created by Chef Mesnier. But how did Mesnier’s vocation transport him to
the White House?Mesnier was raised on post-WWII France. He came from a large family and learned to work
hard at an early age. Once he was old enough, he moved away from home and apprenticed with a pastry chef. Mesnier greatly
appreciated the skills he learned and the discipline he earned. Says Mesnier: "Working for the Maurivards was an extraordinary
stroke of luck." With his skills and discipline, Mesnier advanced his career by transferring from
respected pastry shops to prestigious hotels, always increasing and advancing his gastronomic skills and repertoire. Eventually,
his mastery of pastries allowed him to be hired at the White House. While serving at the White
House, Mesnier surpassed his previous achievements. Every visiting dignitary was honored with a sweet creation incorporating
ingredients and designs paying tribute to the dignitary’s country. Mesnier’s pastries were edible art! He could
recreate anything through his pastries and sugar creations, including historic buildings and national emblems. Mesnier’s memoir is far more than a description of a highly successful career. This entertainingly written book
provides glimpses into the private lives of powerful men and their families. Though world events burdened each president,
Mesnier could offer support through his gastronomic confections. My taste buds were yearning for Mesnier’s creations
while I read his book.
Alphabet of Manliness by Maddox
Before you read this review, let me warn you that Maddox’s book is purposefully offensive. There is
no ounce of political correctness and many readers will not venture past the information on the dust jacket.
Who is the author Maddox? According to the biographical blurb, Maddox is 27 years old and a native Utahn,
who writes for his own site which he unabashedly names "the best page in the universe." Maddox is full of opinions, and other
things, and freely shares his "wisdom" with his readers. Here are a few examples. In the first chapter,
readers receive step-by-step instructions for delivering a dropkick to the face, elbow to the mouth and breaking somebody’s
back. Additional cruder fighting moves are also described. Maddox’s insights into female wrestling,
passing gas, and why Mona Lisa smiled are all crude and yet funny. Why men become irate, the joys of being
a lumberjack, and the ins and outs of heavy metal music and concerts also receive the Maddox treatment. His chapters on road
rage, violence, taunting, and winning speak for themselves. The Alphabet of Manliness
is crude, rude, and lewd. And yet, I chuckled often. As I said at the beginning, this book will offend and annoy if taken
too seriously. Just remember that in my opinion, Maddox would fit right in with the cast of "jacka**." If this reference doesn’t
work for you, think of George Carlin mixed with "Animal House." L
Amusing Grace by Rhonda Rhea
Five experiments, all in different stages of aging and development, help Rhonda learn the difficult and often
exasperating lessons of life. Rhonda loves her experiments, also known as her five delightful, albeit trying, children. And
in Amusing Grace, Rhonda takes occurrences from her family's life and retells these stories, enhanced with appropriate
scriptures, in the form of short chapters usable as daily devotionals. What is motherhood? According
to Rhonda, "motherhood is a wonderful and incredibly tiring adventure" that some days "comes packaged with an Exedrin headache."
Your housework will never be completely finished, most of your lunches will consist of "lard burgers" from drive-through windows,
and your to-do list will grow exponentially. While petty annoyances will plague you every day, Rhonda
reminds you to count your divine blessings every day. Your careful plans will often be derailed. In those cases, you must
recognize that the Lord's plans often differ from your plans. Since family life is filled with messy, smelly or even disastrous
surprises, Rhonda shares stories of odorous lockers, shriveled potatoes and other such fine things. She also tells you how
much milk her family consumes daily. And each story has a sacred practical application. Rhonda's
lively stories remind you to cherish the chaos, disasters and messes of childhood and to practice Godlike patience with yourself
and your family. Allow God's teachings and love to bring stability to your life. Treasure the innocent laughter of your children
and bask in the light of Holy Writing. Amusing Grace will tease your funny bone and help you see your challenges
of familial responsibilities in a new and divine light.
Anam Cara: A Book of Celtic Wisdom by John ODonohue
"The ancient wisdom, poetry, and blessings
of Celtic spirituality will awaken and grace the beauty of your hearts landscape."
Anam Cara is Gaelic for soul
friend. John O'Donohue
allows the reader to embark on a journey of self-discovery. With much feeling and simple language,
O'Donohue presents Gaelic wisdom and beliefs. He discusses the power of love; the opening of oneself to life and life's experiences.
As you grow in love and self-discovery, you may awaken the hidden love within. Whenever you look at somebody's face, what
do you see? It's been said that the eyes are the windows to a persons soul, but John O'Donohue comments that the whole face
provides rare and terrific insight into a person's character and life. When you behold someone's face, you are gazing deeply
into that persons life. O'Donohue provides additional advice to the reader. He reminds all readers to take a new look at the
ordinary parts of their lives. O'Donohue says that we must rediscover our routine world and find the beauty in all that we
experience and feel. He says that the best way of caring for your soul is to make flexible again some of the views that harden
and crystalize your mind. To be receptive of love, to be flexible and to accept life with all of its glories, triumphs and
shortcomings are just three of the themes I learned from Anam Cara.
Body Brokers by Annie Cheney
Do you ever wonder how much your body could be worth once you die? Wonder no more. Cheney provides a price list. Here are
some examples: brain $500-$600, forearm $350-$850 each, leg $700-$1000 each, whole cadaver $4000-$5000. Are you sure that
you just want to be buried? To warm up her readers to her cold subject, Cheney opens her book by writing about
attending a medical conference at the Trump International Beach Resort in Miami. This conference allowed attendees to hone
their skills in laparoscopy by practicing on cadavers, more specifically "the legless, armless, headless remains of six men."
This visually shocking display was accompanied by the olfactory stimulus of the "faintly sweet smell of decaying bowel."
What started Cheney on this macabre quest for body parts? She was researching a story about body donations when she was steered
into the direction of surgical training seminars and the ever increasing need for cadavers. Once Cheney started digging through
the facts like a grave robber, she discovered a highly secretive, and thus unregulated, network of body brokers involving
employees of medical schools, funeral homes and crematoriums. Wether or not the bodies are legally or illegally obtained,
their trade value is immense. As always, supply and demand dictate price. Anatomy, the study of bodies, traces
its origin to centuries ago. When bodies weren’t readily available for study, graves were lightened off their decaying
burdens. Less than 200 years ago, grave robbery was a lucrative business in England and the U.S. Cheney doesn’t
call them modern day grave robbers, but she found a number of unscrupulous men involved in this grisly underground business
who would have fit right in with the grave robbers of a 100 years ago. One such man is Agostino "Angie" Perra whose company
provides body parts to various buyers. Body Brokers is fascinating to read and opens the reader’s mind to a whole new
aspect of being dead.
Boogers Are My Beat by Dave Barry
This book by Dave Barry collects a number of his newspaper columns in which he turns daily news items into
humorous commentary. The attack on your funny bone begins with the Florida presidential election debacle, an event best forgotten
before it causes you to regurgitate your latest meal or induces nightmares of pregnant chads storming the bastille of the
White House. Barry also gleefully shares his advice about political partying and massive consumption of alcoholic beverages
at these parties. And to shorten those interminable political conventions, Barry suggest an "anti-cliché rule" for convention speakers. Barry enjoyed poking fun at the Salt Lake Winter Olympics.
He said that members of the international press corps worried about obtaining any alcohol in Utah. Since one particular religious
group is quite dominant in Utah, this group planned to keep a low profile. But Barry says that "this is kind of like Godzilla
trying to keep a low profile in Tokyo." Of course, the figure skating medal fiasco didn’t escape Barry’s wit.
The remaining essays in this book touch on various subjects, such as "smart" appliances, Cosmopolitan
magazine, the nightmare of creating or buying the perfect Halloween costume, North Dakota wanting to change its name
, and service agreements. Dave Barry is amusing and finds something laughable in most everyday occurrence. He can also write
heartfelt, caring, poignant pieces such as his essays about the 9/11 tragedies. Boogers... is an entertaining addition
to Barry’s humorous writings.
Chicken Soup for the Soul Cartoons for Moms by Jack Canfield, Mark V. Hansen and John McPherson
Canfield and Hansen are the creators of the Chicken Soup for the Soul books. These books,
filled with inspirational stories interspersed with cartoons and poems, have pleased readers for years. McPherson is the creator
of the Close to Home cartoons which have exercised the funny bones of Americans for years. When you combine the talents
of these three individuals, you get CSftS Cartoons for Moms.What is a mom? Is she just the woman who gave birth to
the children or is mom also the family doctor, provider, cook, butler, chauffeur, seamstress, psychologist, confessor and
referee? Moms hold all of these responsibilities and then some. McPherson's collection of cartoons about moms delightfully
presents the joys and foibles of motherhood. I'm a dad and I laughed throughout the book. My favorite
cartoons include, but of course aren't limited to, the "budget ultrasound," "baby proofing," "parental hand-off," "mothers
shuttle service" and the chart of "children's food likes and dislikes." And what parent of toddlers can't laugh at the stiff
toddler who refuses to be placed in his car seat. My children are growing and McPherson warns me about the joyous but also
exasperating teenage years through his cartoons. CSftS Cartoons for Moms will lighten your parental burden
through the healthy gift of laughter.
A Child Called It by David Pelzer
This book chronicles David Pelzer's miserable and depressing
childhood. At first, happiness reigned in the Pelzer home. The family went on picnics and vacations together. Dad had a good
paying and enjoyable job, Mom stayed at home with the kids. The Pelzers were a happy American family in the 1970's. Then Mr.
and Mrs. Pelzer started drinking more and fighting more. Mrs. Pelzer grew more domineering every day. Her husband and kids
cowered before her. Unfortunately, David was the recipient of most of his mom's wrath. She would set a time limit in which
he had to finish his numerous chores. When he didn't make the limit, he didn't get to eat dinner. Out of desperation, David
would eat the scraps off the family dishes. He also stole food at school. His mom figured out how David got food and then
made him vomit every day after school. David was no longer a member of the family. He was an object, an "it." David was banished
to the garage. His mom treated him most inhumanely. David's school teachers noticed his bruises, torn and dirty clothing and
his desperation. The school nurse started checking David over every day and kept a record of all the physical abuse she found.
Eventually, the proper authorities were alerted and David was taken from his home and placed into foster care. A
Child Called It made me cry in sympathy for David. No person, much less a child, should suffer the abuse that David suffered.
My synopsis of this book leaves out many additionally acts of horror forced upon David by Mrs. Pelzer. After reading, A
Child Called It, I felt very grateful for my life. My problems hardly compare to what David went through. David's
story continues in The Lost Boy . V,L
The Clash of Orthodoxies: Law, Religion, and Morality in Crisis by Robert P. George
"The clash of orthodoxies in contemporary American social and political life manifests itself above all in
conflicts over life issues, such as abortion, infanticide, physician-assisted suicide, and euthanasia, as well as issues pertaining
to sex, marriage and family life." This opening sentence from the book's preface best declares to
the reader the ideas of George's book. Robert George is a political philosopher at Princeton. His collected essays admirably
argue the point that common secular, and liberal teachings and beliefs, are inferior to traditional Judeo-Christian teachings
and beliefs. George boldly proclaims that "Christian moral teaching can be shown to be rationally superior to orthodox secular
moral beliefs." I enjoyed his definition of secularist marriages, convenience versus Christian commitment. George firmly maintains,
and boldly proclaims the clarion call, that all moral teaching must start in the home, that public schools and other government
agencies cannot serve as the sole moral teaching ground for our posterity. Law, morality and religion, in all their often
divergent aspects, should always be in agreement. Unfortunately, this will only happen in a perfect world, not in our current
imperfect, confusing and exasperating state of affairs. The Clash of Orthodoxies is not a book for the casual
reader. George's skillfully and artfully crafted compound sentences; with their prepositional phrases, declarative clauses
and multi-syllabled vocabulary; are either a grammarian's nightmare or fantasy. In my opinion, these collected essays are
best read and intellectually digested one essay at a time. George's book will not only create controversy among readers but
also invite readers to re-evaluate their moral beliefs and positions.
Darwin Awards by Wendy Northcutt
"Commemorating those individuals who ensure the long-term survival
of our species by removing themselves from the gene pool in a sublimely idiotic fashion."
I've always enjoyed the Darwin
Awards. Some of the most
popular actions awarded this dubious honor are actually urban legends. However, Wendy Northcutt
culled most of the stories and legends and documented as many stories as possible for her book. The subtitle of Darwin
Awards says it all. The reader can blithely celebrate the stupidity of fellow human beings who have successfully
improved the human gene pool through personally destructive actions. Let me just give a few examples.
There was the female
tourist who wanted to get an excellent photo of the running of the bulls. She did not succeed and she did not survive her
adventure. In Egypt, a chicken fell into a well. Six people tried to rescue the chicken. The six rescuers drowned, the chicken
survived.
A Canadian woman called her local police station to complain that she had been burned in a drug deal. When a
narcotics officer arrived and tested the merchandise, he found that it indeed was cocaine. The woman was arrested.
Unexploded
munitions, such as antitank mines, litter the Cambodian countryside. One such mine was used by three buddies for a game of
Russian roulette. Each of these inebriated men would swallow his drink and then stomp on the mine. This game didnt last too
long and all three men died in the explosion.
I have done some stupid things in my life but unless I have a lobotomy,
I will not fall prey to the Darwin Award. Its always fun to find delight in another persons folly. The Germans have a term
for it, Schadenfreude.
Dave Barry Is Not Taking This Sitting Down by Dave Barry
This title may be
a little odd but Dave Barry explains that his first choice of title, "Tuesdays With Harry Potter", was not approved by the
publisher's legal department. So why is Dave Barry sitting on a toilet on the cover of his book? Perhaps because several sections
of this book discuss the illegal trade and smuggling of toilets from Canada. These Canadian toilets have a water capacity
of 3.5 gallons compared to the newly mandated and regulated U.S. standard of 1.6 gallons of water used per flush. Of course,
this isn't the only subject Barry tackles in his latest collection. Barry enlightens the reader about road rage in Miami
including talking about young aggressive males with powerful car stereos. Barry says: "The driver must go faster than the
speed of sound at all times, because otherwise the nuclear bass notes emanating from his rear speakers will catch up to him
and cause his head to explode." Like most parents, Dave Barry and his wife relish the annual back-to-school clothing
shopping trip. They have learned that the only types of clothing their children want is the clothing which they, as parents,
loath. I laughed most when I read about Barry's experience in Paris, France. He points out that Paris is filled with
numerous historic tourist attractions. All of these edifices have been built as part of a coordinated effort to kill whatever
tourists manage to escape the drivers. Barry reports that stairs, hundreds of thousands of them, are the focus of this murderous
effort. Every tall tourist attraction has a lookout point which usually is situated so far above terra firma that parachutes
are issued as safety equipment. Tourist will usually drag their bloated and unfit bodies up several thousand steps to enjoy
the panoramic view. But Barry reports that the view is obscured by "dark spots...caused by lack of oxygen." Dave Barry
has been a humorist for many years and he has perfected his art. His other writings in this collection include, among other
topics, comments on the airline industry and an insightful description of his sons college dorm room. If you need some laughs,
read this book.
Dave Barry Turns 50 by Dave Barry
With his usual sarcastic wit, Dave Barry mines the notion of getting older. He is 50 years old but doesn't
feel that he should be considered old just because he was born in 1948 amid the first wave of millions of baby boomers. Dave
tells the reader that he will not whine but then goes right ahead and does just that, whine. He says that at 50 "...you gain
weight by merely watching food commercials, and the warranties are expiring on all your remaining teeth and internal organs..."
Dave insists that most of the healthy, high fiber and non-meat foods available to the older generation consist of tofu and
compressed cardboard. He does find himself with more time since he reads less. According to Dave, most print articles are
written in a font roughly the size of bacteria. Having attained the magical fifty year mark, Dave has
special insight into historical events as he presents the reader with a chronological list of humanity's foibles, follies
and achievements from 1948 through the early 1970's. For example, while discussing the Cold War and the Soviet blockade of
Berlin which resulted in the Berlin Airlift, Dave says: "The Berlin Airlift involved attaching the city of Berlin via stout
cables to Air Force bombers, picking it up, and flying it to safety a feat that would have been impossible without fantastic
quantities of beer." As his historical and hysterical rhetoric continues, Dave also skewers additional
subjects with his trademark scathing humor. Ford and Chevy motorcars, the Barbie doll ("an absurdly skinny woman with big
gazombas") and first date experiences are all targets. Now remember, Dave Barry isn't bitter about getting older. In fact,
he plans to start his own organization in answer to the AARP. This group will proudly name itself BARF, Boomers Against Reaching
Farthood. I'll let the reader discover the official charter of this timely organization. Lastly,
Dave Barry talks about death which "comes to all living things except crabgrass." He reads the obituaries carefully in search
of people who died at a younger age than Dave is now. He isn't sure about the concept of an afterlife. However, if reincarnation
is the way, Dave wants to return as a hornet. Read the book to find out why. I like Barry's humor.
He makes me laugh and tells me to look at life with a slightly skewed attitude.
Don't Make Me Stop This Car by Al Roker
Al Roker presents his personal parental foibles and follies
in this book. He tells the reader how his wife Deborah miscarried during their first attempt at getting pregnant, or preggers
as Roker calls it. This setback didn't quench their desires to be parents. Al and Deborah sought medical help and eventually
Deborah became pregnant. Roker says: "Here is the woman I love, . . . carrying a living being inside of her." As Al and Deborah
get ready for their new arrival, they soon encounter differences in the way they want to decorate the baby's room. They also
realize that Manhattan has a unique set of standards for baby items. Albee Baby Carriage, a combination Toys R Us, warehouse
and Middle eastern souk for baby stuff is the store in which to buy all the proper items. After nine months, the golden moment
arrives and Leila is born. Al went through babyhood during his first marriage, but this time around he is home more often.
He accepts the privilege and awesome responsibility of parenthood with aplomb and enthusiasm. Al knows that every moment is
precious. I revisited my children's babyhood years while reading. Don't Make Me Stop This Car. I laughed while
Al rediscovered the joys of a baby air raid siren, toxic diapers and lack of sleep. I empathized with Al as he cherished the
precocious moments of Leila s life.
Dreamer of Dune by Brian Herbert
Dreamer of Dune is a superb biography about a most complex, and master of complexities himself, man - Frank
Herbert. Brian Herbert, son of Frank Herbert, had years to research his "subject." During this time, Brian discovered most,
but not all, facets which defined his father's conundrum-like character. "His life...proceeded in 50 directions at once."
Brian Herbert presents his father's life story without whitewashing any character flaws. The reader learns about Frank's failed
first marriage, his many jobs, the numerous moves of the Herbert family and the constant money troubles. But the reader rejoices
when Brian tells about the successful second marriage and the illustrious literary career of Frank Herbert. Frank's
road to success as an author was fraught with frustration, long hours, years of research and small royalty checks. But the
fates eventually shone upon Frank Herbert when Dune grew into a publishing phenomenon. Dreamer of Dune
is filled with candor, humor and curious facts about Frank Herbert's life. Brian Herbert has successfully exerted his writing
talents in presenting his father's incredible life. I was awed by Frank Herbert's insatiable curiosity and his many accomplishments.
Brian Herbert has honored his father with this biography. At the same time, Brian Herbert continues his personal rise to literary
stardom.
Four Agreements by Don Miguel Ruiz
What are the Four Agreements? According to Ruiz, they consist
of these points:
1. Be impeccable with your word.
2. Don t take anything personally.
3. Don t make assumptions.
4. Always do your best.
Ruiz presents his advice through Toltec teachings. Toltec is not a religion. While it does
embrace spirit, it is most accurately described as a way of life, distinguished by the ready accessibility of happiness and
love. Ruiz tells the reader that all of us are in a fog and that we must re-evaluate our life and our purpose. As you learn
to be impeccable with your word, you will learn to temper your language and thereby avoid self-defeating vocabulary. Ruiz
says: "When you are impeccable with your word, you feel good; you feel happy and at peace." Most readers understand
not to take anything personally. However, insults happen and people take too many things personally. Gossip may also poison
the reader's environment. Not making assumptions and always doing your best are both straightforward ideas. But again, living
these ideas can be more difficult than first imagined. Ruiz reminds the reader to accept personal limitations and to learn
from mistakes. He also tells the reader to avoid living in the past; don't dwell on your past mistakes. The reader must face
his fears and commit to living the four agreements. I have mixed feelings about the Four Agreements. Much of
Ruiz s advice is worth paying attention to. However, Ruiz seems to stress selfish behavior in living the four agreements.
The Freedom Writers Diary by The Freedom Writers with Erin Gruwell
In the fall of 1994, Erin Gruwell wrote the following in her journal: "Tomorrow morning, my journey as an English teacher
officially begins." And what a journey teaching at Wilson High School became. Since she was the new teacher, Erin’s
classes were filled with the unwanted students, trouble makers, discipline problems and gang members. Her classes were a hodgepodge
of penned up anger, cultural and ethnic clashes Nobody expected Erin to survive, much less thrive, as a teacher in this setting.
Through keeping journals, Erin taught her students to evaluate their lives, understand that solutions exist, and overcome
some of their troubles. She also taught her students about the Holocaust and the calamity of ethnic cleansing in Bosnia and
other world trouble spots. Her students recognized similarities in their lives and the events they were studying. In fact,
when Erin’s students read about Zlata Filipovic, they yearned to meet this modern-day "Anne Frank." What Erin the "too
white and too young" new teacher accomplished with her students is absolutely amazing. Let’s look at a several diary
entries. The students’ journal entries are raw, open and direct. Anger, frustration, disappointment, fear, and
emotional pain attack readers. Most students have been exposed to shootings, discrimination, dysfunctional families, and a
society that can’t help with the burden of the projects. Some students have never met their fathers, other students
have been abused, and others have severe drug habits. The Freedom Writers Diary is emotionally draining to
read. Some of the crude language may offend readers. The book helped me appreciate my safe and simple life. Erin Gruwell changed
lives as a teacher at Wilson HS. L
French Dirt by Richard Goodman
The ad was too enticing for Richard, he could not imagine a better vacation than to rent an old
stone house in a sleepy French village. Life in New York had been exhausting and Richard was ready for a break. He and his
girlfriend packed up their few essentials and moved to St. Sébastian de Caisson in the French wine country. St. Sébastian is a quaint little village filled with reserved but unique people and a culture heavily influenced by
the wine grapes grown in this fertile region. There is no bakery, no butcher shop, no post office, no gas station and no café.
In fact, no shops exist and all merchandise is trucked in. This old-fashioned village may be behind the times but it is charming
none-the-less. Richard befriends some villagers but longs for more so he offers to work for some
of the farmers. Of course, the men in the village are skeptical, since all former American tourists never worked while living
in the rental home, but they give Richard an opportunity to prove himself. Richard also decides to start a garden, an intimidating
task for a New Yorker. French Dirt isn't just a travelogue. Richard skillfully depicts
the classic atmosphere of a conservative yet romantic French village. His writing is very readable and he inserts descriptive
gems, such as "the blue vault of the French day," in his narrative. Richard's garden provided challenges, frustrations, joys
and triumphs for him. Readers will also find joy in this book and armchair travel destination.
French Lessons: Adventures with Knife, Fork and Corkscrew by Peter Mayle
Some jaded readers may say, "Not another Peter Mayle book about France." I say, "Hurray, a new Peter Mayle book about France!"
This time, Mayle doesn't limit his musings to comments about Provence. Instead, Mayle embarks on a gastronomic quest to discover
the finest aperitif, appetizers, escargot, truffles and wines that France has to offer. His journey includes finding an exquisite
bouillabaisse and the perfect chicken. Even the most pungent cheese and consummate omelette do not escape Mayle's ventures.
Peter Mayle unabashedly indulges in tasty food even though his taste buds "were left undisturbed" in his youth. He says that
postwar England was a "gastronomic wilderness" and that his boarding school cuisine was "carefully color-coordinated gray
meat, gray potatoes, gray vegetables, gray flavor." Mayle's taste buds did awake eventually. This happened during a business
lunch at a French restaurant. "At the first mouthful of French bread and French butter, my taste buds, dormant until then,
went into spasms. Mayle reports that this "lunch had been a personal turning point, the loss of my gastronomic virginity."
My taste buds were salivating as I followed Peter Mayle's epicurean exploits. As in his other books, Mayle again engages the
reader with vibrant details, this time of sublime gourmet meals. Mayle's reportage is never boring and I felt myself conveyed
to these foreign places. Sadly, I didn't have my knife and fork with me.
Give Me a Break by John Stossel
"I was once a heroic consumer reporter; now I’m a threat to journalism." With this sentence, Stossel
reels his readers into his book. What happened to Stossel and his vocation? Stossel decided to shift his investigative focus
from business to politics and "public interest" groups. In just a short while, Stossel’s perceived newsman persona changed
from consumer reporting Wunderkind to media pariah. To bring the truth to his fans, Stossel
would often interact with the people whom he was investigating. Sure, this bordered on guerilla reporting, but Stossel believed
strongly in what he was doing and the methods he was using to accomplish his goals. Of course, every once in a while, Stossel’s
tactics backfired with unpleasant results. Early in his newfound quest, Stossel succeeded in incriminating
many small time crooks. Unfortunately, shortly after the same flimflam artists would be back on the streets preying on fresh
victims. This mixed success confused and annoyed Stossel and he decided that perhaps his quest needed a new direction. Stossel
decided to investigate regulators, union and big businesses. And Stossel learned that "free markets, not coercive governments,
are the consumer’s best friend." Welfare fraud and wastage, frivolous governmental spending,
governmental interference in your privacy, and the ADA-Americans with Disabilities Act-all received Stossel's scrutinizing
attention. However, by revealing hidden truths, Stossel became an outcast in his field, "a threat to journalism."
Stossel confirmed a few of my fears regarding the ludicrousness of various laws and regulations. He also
showed examples of governmental follies when it comes to spending the taxpayers dollars. I may not agree with everything Stossel
has to say but he has a persuasive argument.
Greatest Success in the World by Og Mandino
This informative book is written in the form of a fable and the author warns his reader that "a useless life
is far worse than an early death." Then the reader is told about Zacchaeus Ben Joshua, a man who was orphaned at age five,
was born with a misshapen body and had no formal education. Despite this, Zacchaeus became the richest man in Jericho! How? Zacchaeus says: "How is one to know what one can accomplish unless one tries?" This motto helped Zacchaeus overcome
his physical and educational shortfalls. He not only became successful in his business but with his success, he also grew
charitable and helped the poor of Jericho. Throughout his career, Zacchaeus kept track of the practices that furthered his
goals. Now the reader can learn these secrets of success. There are ten "commandments of success."
All projects worth pursuing begin with work. "You must work and it is how you do, not what you do, that determines the course
of your life," says Zacchaeus. Patience, charting your course and planning for negatives are additional commandments. Remember:
"Always have faith that conditions will change." Adversity will come but "every failure is only a step toward success." Perhaps
the most important advice Zacchaeus gives is: "Thou must never strive to be anything but thyself."
Og Mandino has a unique literary talent. With informative fables, Mandino teaches his reader life's lessons without sounding
preachy or overbearing. I've always learned something from every Mandino book I've read.
How to Mow the Lawn: The Lost Art of Being a Man by Sam Martin
Martin asserts that many men have lost the proficiency of being manly. Now he is not talking about the misconstrued
manly skills of boozing, cussing and womanizing. Nor does Martin preach that all men must be like Charlton Heston or Clint
Eastwood. Instead, Martin offers brief lessons on many different manly arts such as planting a tree, playing party host and
painting a room. He divides his book into subjects such as "the great outdoors," "gaining points with the fairer sex" and
"how to be a hero." In his introduction, Martin asks the question: "So what does it take for a man
to recover that combination of toughness and charisma?" His answer includes among other things hard work, dirt and some fearlessness.
Of course, hard work usually leads to rough hands and according to Martin, women like rough hands because "theyre a sign that
you're not a stranger to fresh air and a little dirt." Speaking of hard work, Martin, with tongue-in-cheek,
claims that "Building something with bricks is a job that will put hair on your chest." Then he proceeds to instruct his readers
on how to build a barbecue pit. And no "manly" book is complete without humorous remarks such as Martin's "Drowning is not
good for a man's health and it should be avoided." How to Mow the Lawn will make
a fun gift for any man. The simple lessons allow even somebody like myself, who has ten thumbs and no mechanical inclinations,
to learn the lost art of being a man.
I Rant Therefore I Am by Dennis Miller
Now, I don't want to get off on a rant here, but Dennis
Miller has a new collection of rants. This third collection is filled with Miller's abrasive wit and candor. He doesn't hesitate
to speak his mind. Miller's commentary and humor are not for everybody, but let me share some of my favorite quotes with you
to court your reading appetite. When Miller talks about James Carville he says:"Carville's got more nervous tics than
a Belfast parking valet." Then Miller reminds us that many men experience baldness and that wearing a toupee is one solution.
Of course, "Wearing a toupee is like covering up a carpet stain with a Day-Glo bean bag chair." Miller also shares his feelings
about apartment life "where home sweet home is a cramped, poorly ventilated sarcophagus." While at home, you may like to listen
to some music, especially country music which "has recently experienced an upsurge in popularity that's positively Viagran."
Dennis Miller attacks additional subjects with his motor-mouth but I don't want to give any more humorous gems away.
I Rant Therefore I Am is the perfect antidote against the disease of excessive seriousness. I laughed often
as I was reading Miller's book and I expect that other readers will also laugh often while reading this book. Of course, that's
just my opinion, I could be wrong. L
Keep It Simple, Stupid by Judge Judy Sheindlin
Life is complicated and chaotic. Family relations are complicated and chaotic. Many people forfeit their ability to properly
reason and solve their problems when these difficulties involve family relations. As a result, family members, ex-family members
and other relatives go to family court to have their dilemmas resolved for them. Judge Judy saw the gamut of family
relationships and troubles during her tenure as a family court judge. She saw first hand how families complicate their lives
unceasingly, oft times destroying fragile family relations. Her courtroom was filled with siblings fighting against siblings,
parents fighting against their children and vice versa, and any other variation on the familial theme of conflict. Judge Judy
found that common sense often disappeared and most conflicts were created by this lack of sense. In K.I.S.S.,
Judge Judy presents multiple fabricated court scenarios to illustrate her points. She dispenses common sense with a keen tongue
and intellect. If you have lost your common sense, if you have fallen prey to letting the courts solve your familial conflicts,
Judge Judy will set you straight and "clean your clock" in the process. Everybody should read Judge Judy to revive their own
degree of common sense. As she says: "Keeping it simple is just a matter of eliminating all the excess baggage so you can
enjoy a happier life."
Let Freedom Ring by Sean Hannity
At the beginning of the first chapter, Hannity tells his readers that he is a New Yorker. For him, New York
City isn’t just place to live, but also a way of life and a city of dreams. However much he loves New York, Hannity
tells his readers that he is a proud American. He says: "I believe in the American dream, the American
ideal, the unique American culture, and the traditional American values. Indeed, my core beliefs–my conservative ideals–are
grounded in my respect for the traditions that make up America’s foundation. At the core of those traditions is the
idea of freedom." Now the concept of freedom can be interpreted many ways but Hannity’s definition
is straight to the point, to enjoy freedom in one’s life; that includes "freedom from governmental interference." Unfortunately,
America and her ideals came under direct terrorist attack on that fateful day in September 2001. Hannity cautions his readers
that tough choices must be made, especially if we as Americans hope to win the war against terrorism "no matter what sacrifices
it requires or how long it takes." Now nearly four years later, Americans have experienced some of the cost and sacrifice.
Hannity unabashedly assures his readers that his wrangle with liberals and liberalism isn’t a conflict
of personalities but a conflict of ideals. And he asks: "Why is it that so many leading liberals seem to think that the real
threat to America isn’t Communism, or Islamic radicalism, or terrorism–but conservatism?" Can you the reader answer
this question? It is true that America has flaws, and that Lady Liberty is a symbol of an imperfect nation. Yet, America is
often seen as a force for good, as a promised land of unlimited possibilities, as an example for other nations and governments
to follow. In other words, America is unparalleled and unique in what she offers to the world. But
unfortunately, misguided politicians who want to appease everybody often vote for the benefit of the few instead of the values
of the many. In other words, liberals push their agendas which always seem to clash and undermine the core beliefs of America.
Hannity provides many snapshots of current events as examples including controversies regarding the Pledge of Allegiance to
decisions made by the National Education Association. Hannity opened my eyes to some of the problems
facing America and her values. He strongly affirms that Judeo-Christian values are the hallmarks of America and that all of
us need to practice self-discipline if we want to fully enjoy the freedoms promised to us as Americans, no matter our ethnic
or cultural background.
Maniilaq: Prophet From the Edge of Nowhere by S. Terry & J. Anderson
When a language doesn't exist in written form, all histories, sagas and traditions are passed from generation
to generation in oral form. The Inupiaq Eskimos have a rich heritage full of traditions and legends, including the story of
Maniilaq. But this sacred history was only available in oral form. Then in 1978, the Elders of the NANA (Northwest Arctic
Native Association) came together to record their sagas. And with this record the legend of Maniilaq became available to all.
Who was Maniilaq and what did he have to say to his people? This book tells the story. It is the 1800's
and much of the frigid North has not yet been discovered by white settlers. However, the North is home to the Inupiaq who
follow the many taboos prescribed by their shamans. This was the time in which Maniilaq grew up. As a youth, he began to hear
a mysterious sound which eventually, over many years, became a message of prophecy and guidance for the Inupiat from their
Grandfather. The Holy Scriptures teach that God has other sheep who also must hear His words. Through
Maniilaq, Grandfather discarded the silly taboos of the shamans, presented future life changing benefits and nursed the idea
of a rest day. God also prepared the Inupiat for the trials of societal changes brought on by white gold hunters, government
officials and missionaries. At the end of his ministry, Maniilaq disappeared, his body has never been found. I knew that other non-Caucasian spiritual leaders received guidance from on high but I had hardly read about them.
Now inquiring readers can learn about one such leader. I liked Maniilaq. Steve and Jill have captured the essence
of Maniilaq's story in their brief and informative book.
The Many Loves of Marriage by Thomas & Nanette Kinkade
This beautifully and richly illustrated book is infused with the Kinkades' personal anecdotes and love for
each other. Thom and Nanette reminisce about their youth in Placerville, CA, small town America. And as you read this book,
you will learn the secret behind Thom's distinctive yellow hues. You will laugh at Nanette's embarrassing
moment when she hardly knew Thom. Nanette does say: "We fell in love. At first sight." However, they didn't get married right
out of high school. In fact, not until Thom called Nanette on a whim, did they rediscover their love for each other and then
acted on it eventually. Now they are the proud parents of four daughters. Thom freely acknowledges
that his paintings are inspired and that he considers his career to be of divine service. He also reminds the reader that
Nanette is Thoms anchor, not just in his career but also in his life. Together, Thom and Nanette have forged the bonds which
cement their marriage and their love for each other and their children. You must have a secure foundation
for your marriage. Thom says: "...those foundations are your vows, your daily walk with a loving, unchanging God, your daily
kindness and tenderness to one another, and your resolve to give yourselves to your marriage every day with all your heart."
The Many Loves of Marriage is filled with more timely wisdom and Thom's gorgeous paintings. Throughout
this book, he and Nanette confirm that a happy marriage takes much work and that the concept of love changes in definition
as partners go through life. Every couple may benefit from reading Many Loves...
Mom: The Woman Who Made Oatmeal Stick to My Ribs by James Michael Pratt
James Pratt proudly tells his readers that his mom was the quintessential mom, a woman raised with virtues
and moral principles. Pratt's mom then passed these nurtural traits to her children as they were growing up in the 1940's-1960's.
Mother Pratt was like many women of her time; stalwart women who experienced the Great Depression, stalwart women who accepted,
overcame and then grew spiritually from difficult circumstances, stalwart women who forwent personal luxuries to provide for
their families. To Pratt, the title "Mom" is sacred for it is a term of endearment reserved "for
the woman who always put our needs above her own." The author recognizes that not all readers may have had a mom as perfect,
even angelic, as his and so he offers the experiences of Mother Pratt as salve and comfort. Moms
begin their day earlier than the other members of the family. This was the case in the Pratt's home where James would try
to pass on breakfast but his mom insisted that he eat his oatmeal. And then, James could listen to loving words from his mom.
Says Pratt: "...mothers wisely feed first and teach second." James Pratt admits that even today, oatmeal still reminds him
of his mom's love and caring. Mother Pratt dispensed similar parental gems of wisdom as other mothers
did, "Eat your food, there are starving children in the world. Treat others the way you would like to be treated. Say thank
you and please. Say your prayers." And one of the greatest lessons James and his siblings learned while at home was the love
and affection, the genuine caring and understanding, shared by their parents. Mother and Father Pratt were affectionate with
each other, kissing, giggling and hugging etc., in front of their children. Pratt admits that watching his parents carry on
like teenagers "nearly made [him] ill when he was just eleven years old. Since then, this example of a loving marital relationship
has positively influenced Pratt's life. Dear Mother Pratt didn't become a bastian of motherhood
over night. She grew in her responsibilities and skills one day at a time. Pratt's affectionate memories of his mother allow
readers to remember their own mothers and perhaps renew their relationships with the woman who knows them best, their Mom.
On the Unseriousness of Human Affairs by James V. Schall
This entertaining title reveals the message of Schall's cleverly presented thesis, that human affairs, for the most part,
are not as important as we may think. There is a place, and a need, for "useless" activities such as singing and playing.
Professor Schall reminds his readers to discover their place in reality and to realize "that man is not the highest thing
in existence." Schall, from his studies of philosophers throughout history, also tells the readers that solemn things can
be joyful. After all, "truth is joyful." What is more important in human affairs, work or play? The average person considers
productive work to have great worth and play to be a waste of time. However, Schall prompts his readers to consider that play
actually is a valuable freedom and resource and that humans while playing can also contemplate their station in life, with
all its accompanying dilemmas, difficulties and trials. What about religion? Is God the answer? Is God calling to us?
Yes, Schall writes: "God attracts and calls us." Unfortunately, we as humans are easily distracted and "do not order our lives
so that we are taken beyond what is before us." Professor Schall lauds many sources, including Charlie Brown and Aristotle,
which he used to refine his teachings. He teaches his readers that leisure pursuits, often considered wasteful, actually define
the unseriousness of human affairs and provide opportunities for inspiration and divine guidance.
Quest for Peace, Love and a 24" Waist by Deborah Low
In the introduction to her book, Deborah Low announces that her title represents the Holy Grail to most women. Then she
asks: "Why does happiness depend on your waist size?" Well, it shouldn't! Low teaches that a restrictive diet is not the answer.
Instead, greater self-awareness will allow you to realize your goals and desires including losing those cursed extra pounds.
Again, visualizing, understanding and focusing on the whole body picture, instead of the exacting diet you have vainly chosen
to bring you happiness, will allow you to make the lifestyle changes that will bring your desired results. Everyday media;
television, movies and magazines; constantly bombard you with the insidious message that a perfectly tanned and skinny body
will bring lasting joy in life. That assertion is a stupendous falsehood. Only you can decide what your self-image and your
self-awareness should be. Low tells you to forgive yourself for past dieting failures and to understand that successful weight
loss involves not only your body but also your mind. You will define what your desires and difficulties are and recognize
external factors which derail you. Then you will learn to change your beliefs and expectations regarding weight loss. Throughout
her book, Low assures you that this is not a "diet" book but rather a book to help you discover and change your destructive
lifestyle. She guides you through the necessary steps, including already prepared pages on which to record your thoughts and
yearnings, and offers support all along. And in case you need a catalyst to help you embark on your journey of physical and
mental well-being, Low offers a concise daily written plan. If other diet fads and books have failed you, then you must try
Quest...
Rant Zone by Dennis Miller
Dennis Miller is at it again. The Rant Zone is Miller's latest collection of outrageous, irreverent and funny
tirades. No subject, person or societal foible is safe from Miller. He shares his hysterical and abrasive opinions about a
number of subjects; including insurance companies, travel, shrinks and show business. Let me share a couple of examples with
you. Speaking about the English language, Miller says: "I've always loved the flirtatious tango of consonants and vowels,
the sturdy dependability of nouns and the capricious whimsy of verbs...." Speaking about Americans and their credit
cards, Miller says: "...this country is more dependent on plastic than the casting director for Pamela Anderson's V.I.P."
Miller's humor is not for everybody. He makes me laugh, but he also can be offensive. Unfortunately, Miller's stint on T.V.
didn't cure him of his rabid and foul language. He especially often uses variations of the "f" word. Yet, I quite enjoy his
collection of rants.
Schott's Original Miscellany by Ben Schott
This small book is a treasure trove of oddball information and intriguing facts. Schott gleaned his entries from numerous
sources and in doing so he showcased humanity's extreme range of learning. Let me just whet your appetite for knowledge with
a few examples. Do you know what lavish feasts first class passengers on the Titanic could enjoy for dinner? Do you
know the meaning of sesquipedalian? Have you ever attempted to quote Hamlet's soliloquy in Pig Latin? Can you list more than
five countries in which drivers motor on the left? Can you list more than five cartoon characters voiced by Mel Blanc?
You may already know Asimov's Laws of Robotics, but do you know what Polari is? And have you ever wondered how Ambrose Bierce
defines "telephone" in his book Demon's Dictionary? Also, have you ever been curious about the various British Military
Intelligence units? Speaking of British trivia, Schott offers an entertaining page for James Bond fans. Schott's
Original Miscellany may best be read a few entries at a time but I had a difficult time putting Schott's . . .
down. There is no rhyme or reason to the organization of entries. Thus, "Cricketing Dismissals" are followed by "Nouns of
Assemblage" which are followed by the "US Postal Services Unofficial Motto." While reading, don't skip the copyright page,
Schott explains the meaning of an ISBN. Ben calls his book "a snapper-up of unconsidered trifles" and claims that this book
is essential. I agree with him. Schott's Original Miscellany is a superb book to discover, consume and enjoy.
Sixpence House: Lost in a Town of Books by Paul Collins
It was going to be a grand adventure, to abandon the hectic American lifestyle in San Francisco and move to a small Welch
village known for its abundance of book shops. And the adventure began when Paul moved his family to Hay-on-Wye, a small village
shared by fifteen hundred inhabitants and forty antiquarian bookstores. While Paul and family travel to their new home,
Paul recognizes some curiosities of literature. For example, H.G. Wells destroyed British landscape throughout his book War
of the Worlds. Then Wells lived long enough to witness the German Luftwaffe's horrific acts of destruction. Since Paul
grew up with books, he tells his readers that he has always been a reader and that the love of books is in his blood. Paul
even finds humor in the fact that the scientific facts of outdated encyclopedias don't always remain accurate in the current
time. Paul first discovered Hay four years ago and fell in love with this "mecca for booklovers." Says Paul: "The town
. . . was filled with stores stuffed to the rafters with old books . . . " It was a bibliophile's paradise. And now Paul has
returned with his family. Before diving into the literary meat of his story, Paul provides readers with a brief description
of Hay. "Hay-on-Wye . . . has fifteen hundred inhabitants, five churches, four grocers, two newsagents, one post office and
forty bookstores, . . . [t]here are easily several million books secreted away in
these stores and in outlying barnes . . . " Wow! Paul and Jennifer want to buy Sixpence House, a decrepit former
pub in the middle of town. Paul also applies his knowledge of American literature in organizing the American section in the
biggest local bookstore, Booth's. Here he finds a smallish book that is a lost gem because of one of the poems contained therein.
Disorder reigns in most stores and yet the proprietors attempt to sort and organize their literary treasures and sift out
the unfortunately published dross. Paul will tell you a sad tale about remainder books and explain the misnomer of dust jackets.
There is so much more I would like to say about Sixpence House but I will restrain myself. Every few years a book
is published that reminds readers about the "gentle madness" of bibliophiles. Although reading interests are as varied as
authors' incarnations immortalized on printed pages bound between stiff covers, you should read Sixpence House. Paul's
book belongs on every reader's bookshelf.
Stiff: The Curious Lives of Human Cadavers by Mary Roach
If the first sentence of the first chapter doesn’t grab you, then don’t bother reading the rest of this book.
However, if you are as intrigued as I was by Roach’s opening sentence, then sink your reading chops into Stiff and
learn the value of human cadavers. What is the value of a human cadaver? Well, that depends entirely on the experiments being
performed. For example, Roach tells us that cadavers served as targets when the U.S. military tested new rifles in 1904. And
in France, cadavers answered questions about the effectiveness and morality of the guillotine. Roach boldly declares that
"Death . . . doesn’t have to be boring." She has a healthy attitude about death and the silliness of the physical state
of a corpse; you know, smelly and oft times disgusting looking. Let’s engross ourselves in some of my favorite parts
of Roach’s book. Mary Roach watched plastic surgeons practice their fine art on severed heads. And then
she reminds readers that many medical students don’t get the chance to carry out any type of surgery on donated cadavers.
In fact, the lack of donor cadavers can adversely affect the effectiveness of anatomy labs. What about the decomposition
of cadavers? What can be learned from this fragrant and putrefying process? Are you curious to know how criminal forensic
studies have been aided by rotting human flesh? Then visit the University of Tennessee’s Medical Center where the only
field research facility devoted to the study of human decay exists. At this unique testing site, Roach learned about larvae
growth in decomposing bodies. She also gathered information about which body parts become bloated, about the body’s
self-cannibalization, and about the effects of temperature and moisture on decaying flesh. It was a slightly macabre field
trip filled with abundant olfactory and visual stimuli. Cadavers also lead exciting lives as test dummies for automotive
and aeronautic safety. However, before cadavers take on this persona, many of them undergo organ harvesting. But there is
still a shortage of viable, and legally procured, organs in comparison to the enormous need for transplants. Stiff
is an unusual book discussing an unusual, and not oft debated, subject. If you are grossed out easily, then you might
want to ingest just a few pages at a time. Roach’s writing style is pleasant and entertaining. Her knowledge and sense
of humor, in addition to an iron-cast stomach, turned Stiff into a perfect read!
Stressed Is Desserts Spelled Backward by B.L. Seaward
Everybody experiences some type of stress at some time.
This stress may be caused by family relations, by pressure at work or at school, by traffic or by a myriad of other factors.
Stress is as American as apple pie says B.L. Seaward. He reminds the reader to cope with everyday challenges by using hope,
courage and humor. While it is true that there are many joyous moments we associate with the journey of our lives, the
stressful episodes are also part of the same voyage. Seaward teaches that we don't need to carry useless stress around in
our lives. He says:"Travel lightly through life! As we deal with stress, we must remain optimistic. Optimism is spirit in
motion; pessimism is spirit in constipation." Seaward uses stories and personal experiences to teach that overcoming life's
stresses will lead to success and spiritual depth. Stressed... is written in a simple style and yet, Seaward's
message will appeal to many readers. Yes, Seaward uses a few cliches, but I found plenty of worthwhile material in his book.
Sun Tzu Was a Sissy by Stanley Bing
Sun Tzu’s Art of War has been a business reading staple for decades. And Stanley Bing believes that the
time has come to debunk Tzu’s ideas and start teaching the "Real Art of War." With this goal in mind, Bing attacks Tzu’s
kernels of wisdom bluntly and vigorously. Bing claims that "...there’s no business like Tzu business, not today."
So what is the purpose of Bing’s book? " ...to transcend all that Eastern goo and teach feisty Westerners how to make
war and enjoy the subsequent booty." Since there are several different types of war, Bing takes a couple of pages to illuminate
his readers with definitions of war from "Itty-bitty War" to "Total Conflagration" to "The Big One." And what is the booty?
Money ,of course, what else is there worth fighting for?? Before you can start waging war, you must determine
your balance of seeking power and of being reasonable. Bing calls the perfect mix of these two points Yingyang. He also invites
you to determine if associates will sacrifice themselves for you during your war. Bing recommends that you love yourself and
then learn to fake caring for others because you are the People’s Fate Star, the general and planner of this campaign.
Business war is best enjoyed by your recruits when they feel that they are having fun. Bing provides several ideas to make
war fun. You must be angry to fight war and Bing provides a chapter on developing your ire. Also remember that
compassion for your victims can weaken you and derail your valiant efforts to gain the all important booty. Sun
Tzu Was a Sissy is entertaining and perhaps even enlightening. Some of Bing’s points may even find an
application in every day business. A few readers may be surprised by the unexpected coarse language which pops up randomly.
Overall, I enjoyed Sun Tzu Was a Sissy. L
Take Joy by Jane Yolen
The fine art of writing, of carefully aligning and sequencing formerly random words to create heartfelt prose, imaginative
stories and informative text, is a skill that can be learned. Some authors claim that writing manifests itself in agonizing
torture. For example, Gene Fowler says: "Writing is easy: all you do is sit staring at a blank sheet of paper until the drops
of blood form on your forehead." And Reed Smith states: "There's nothing to writing. All you do is sit down at a typewriter
and open a vein." A bit gory isn't it? However, Jane Yolen boldly and proudly proclaims that you need to discover the joy
in writing and unearth your feelings while writing. Yes, writing is hard work, no doubt about it, but it doesn't have
to be torment. Yolen reminds her readers that "Writing takes us into another, brighter, deeper, more engaging world than the
world we actually live in." And where do your story ideas come from? Ideas for stories do not come from a "central warehouse
where ideas are stored" but from every aspect of your daily life, from the endless stimuli of everyday activaties, from what
you read, from what you see, from what you smell and from what you do. Live your life, assimilate your experiences and allow
your limitless cranial storage facility to percolate your memories until a story idea forms itself and begs to be released.
Of course, stories don't write themselves. You must still work and put pen to paper or fingers to keyboard to create your
writings. Remember Yolen's "BIC, Butt In Chair." Take Joy is a resourceful primer for the art of writing.
Yolen's short book will benefit all writers, from the aspiring novice to the accomplished and published author. I laughed
at Yolen's examples of different writing voices. The story was always the same and involved a fearless warrior, his queen
and a fragile teacup. But writing in various voices, Yolen added meaning and value to her narrative. Yolen's alphabetically
listing of writing hints is also entertaining. At the end of her book, Yolen tells her readers that "We write to know ourselves."
Vulgarians at the Gate by Steve Allen
"Trash TV and Raunch Radio Raising the Standards of Popular Culture" - Steve Allen practiced the art of comedy as entertainment
for decades. During his tenure, he realized that popular culture was falling into a "moral sewer." Allen recognized that our
social atmosphere was now fouled by "vulgarity, brutish manners, the collapse of the family, and [the] general disrespect
for traditional codes of conduct." He urged other comedians to clean up their acts and slow down the expanding swill of sewage
being passed off as entertainment. In writing this book, Allen admits the irony of writing a book dealing with material
unsuitable for children when in fact parts of his book are unsuitable for children. I didn't perceive what kind of filth and
vulgarity passes as song lyrics until I read certain lyrics in Allen's book. Allen also takes several TV shows to task concerning
their support of the cultural moral decline. Explicit sexuality, vulgarity and violence enter all of our homes through
all aspects of the media. Allen concedes that customers can turn off their television sets, not purchase certain albums and
not watch certain movies. However, he says that this reaction isn't enough. Everyone who is fed up with the constant exposure
to degrading filth from the various media sources must take a stand for morality. Allen includes a comprehensive index listing
organizations which nurture the revival and continued growth of morality in America. Vulgarians At the Gate is a
clarion call to all who fear for the moral health of our society. L
Wake-Up Calls: Making the Most Out of Every Day (Regardless of What Life Throws You) by Joan Lunden
Joan Lunden has certainly led an exciting life and faced many challenges including a divorce initiated by her former husband.
This, she admits, was her greatest trial, to raise her daughters by herself. Lunden sought help from all available sources
during this difficult time. Her varied and exhaustive reading of self-help texts aided Lunden in creating a new life for her
daughters and herself. She tells the reader that many respected authors, such as D. Chopra and A. Robbins, influenced her
life. Lunden fills her book with personal anecdotes and worthwhile thoughts and quotes from many people. Throughout
her book, Lunden repeatedly reminds the reader that enthusiasm for life will positively change the reader's understanding
of trials. None of us are exempt from difficulties; however, with enthusiasm for life we can accept our trials and work to
better ourselves. "The greater part of our happiness or misery depends on our disposition and not on our circumstances."-
Martha Washington - Lunden freely offers her advice with candor and personal insight. She addresses self-esteem and accepting
constructive criticism; she tells the reader how to gain strength from adversity. Other chapters continue along the same line
of reasoning. The gist of Lunden's book tells the reader to re-kindle his spirit.
Way to Be! by Gordon B. Hinckley
A prophet of the Lord is tasked with speaking to the whole world, not just to the members of the Lord’s church. President
Hinckley addresses the youth of the world with his "Nine ways to be happy and make something of your life." The nine points,
or be-attitudes, are: be grateful, be smart, be involved, be clean, be true, be positive, be humble, be still, and be prayerful.
Let’s look at what President Hinckley has to say. He counsels youth to decide now what they want to do so that
their lives will not "drift in a fruitless and aimless manner." And contrary to popular belief, Pres. Hinckley states that
the "problems of today are manageable" because "[t]hey largely involve individual behavioral decisions." While
being grateful for our abundance is important, Pres. Hinckley also teaches that we should be grateful for our challenges because
they will make us stronger if we persevere. Of course, perseverance means having to work and being involved. Says Pres. Hinckley:
"You have to stay on your feet and keep moving if you are going to have light in your life." Speaking of having light in your
life, Pres. Hinckley condemns one of Satan’s ever more pervasive tools, pornography. Comparing pornography to corrosive
ocean salt, Pres. Hinckley says that pornography "will eat through your armor if you expose yourself to it. It will corrode
your morals, your values, and your sense of self-worth." Yet with all the pessimism in the world, Pres. Hinckley tells his
readers to find the positive in things, to "[c]ultivate an attitude of optimism." Humility and times of quiet
are also important in our lives, as well as being prayerful. Pres. Hinckley readily admits that all of us have difficult challenges
in our lives. But by following his inspired guiding words, his be-attitudes if you like, we can find heavenly solace in turbulent
physical and emotional times. Pres. Hinckley ends his book by saying: "Today is your day of resolution. Promise yourself to
make something good of the precious life that God has given you."
Who Cut the Cheese? by Mason Brown, J.D.
This is the second parody, both with the same title, of the wildly popular business book Who Moved My Cheese? Unlike
Jarlsberg's Who Cut the Cheese?, Mason Brown's Who Cut the Cheese? fails as a parody. In fact, Brown's book
quickly descends into the bowels of gastrointestinal humor. The four characters in Browns book are: Whiff, who sniffs out
gas early; Ditch, who moans loudly before leaving the room; Duck, who pretends not to notice and Cover who learns to adapt
only after pointing accusatory fingers at everybody. These four imbeciles are trapped in a maze with nothing but cheese to
eat. A cheese only diet has an adverse effect on a person's digestive system and soon all the characters are "cutting the
cheese." Mason Brown follows this line of toilet humor and his book, if I dare call it a book, digresses into the nether regions.
Brown's Who Cut the Cheese? will make a fine white elephant gift. However, it is unfortunate that many resources,
such as trees and factory time, were wasted in the printing of this pathetic book. Mason Brown probably has writing talent
but his skills were woefully frittered away in this effort. In my opinion, Brown's Who Cut the Cheese? will serve two
purposes. First, this book will forever be remembered in the literary community as an illuminating example of how not
to write a parody! Second, Brown's book will be an adequate emergency substitute for toilet paper in your privy.
Who Cut the Cheese? by Stilton Jarlsberg, Foreword by Kenneth Bleucheese This story concerns four characters,
Snitch & Scamper and Hi & Ho, and how they find the cheese. The Cheese represents the good things in life such as
money, luxuries and women. Snitch gets his information about change in any way he can; this includes insider information.
Scamper moves ahead at full speed at all times without having any kind of plan. He has a tendency to run into walls. Hi confronts change by becoming increasingly hysterical until he can't function at all. Ho learns to follow another's
example, even if the other is a rat, in finding more cheese. Snitch & Scamper are rats and Hi & Ho are teeny,
tiny people. All four of them are stuck in a maze and every day they go searching for cheese. At first, they find just a few
clumps of cheese here and there in the maze. Then one day they find CheesyWorld. Now all their searching is over.
But
as every even semi-intelligent person realizes, change must happen. The cheese in CheesyWorld is no longer restocked and our
four friends must deal with this drastic change in their life styles. They all understand that it really stinks when somebody
cuts the cheese. Who Moved My Cheese?, the currently incredibly successful business book, was ripe for parody. Who
Cut the Cheese? is jolly good fun! Jarlsberg hit upon all the points of the original book and then twisted the ideas.
Your Road Map for Success by John Maxwell
What are you doing with your life? Where are you going? Nowhere?! What is success? Do you know? Can you define
it? If not, follow the guidelines Maxwell offers in his book. Maxwell presents a simple definition
of success. He says: "Success is knowing your purpose in life, growing to reach your maximum potential, and sowing seeds that
benefit others." You can be successful daily but you must have an aim for your life. Learn to focus and be willing to sacrifice
to achieve your success. Your past failures will only slow you down, forget about them. As you follow
the road map of success, you must create your dream. Break old negative habits, strengthen new habits and keep your ultimate
goal of success in mind. Maxwell teaches that a great attitude is multifaceted. Of course, setting goals is also an integral
part of your successful journey. Troubles will occur but Maxwell says: "Keep moving forward on the journey, making the best
of the detours and interruptions, turning adversity into advantage." Your Road Map for Success is
stock full of little inspirational gems which can be copied to cards and displayed prominently as reminders. Self-tests help
you digest the information. Maxwell's book will not only provide you with your personal road map for success but also help
you become a better leader. Even your family will benefit as you create your dream, follow your goals and achieve an outstanding
attitude.
You’ve Got to Read This Book! edited by Jack Canfield and Gay Hendricks
What do a cookie entrepreneur, several teachers, several motivational speakers, a flower vendor, a cleaning
lady and a tea mogul have in common? They all share a story about a particular book that influenced each of them. In fact,
Canfield and Hendricks invited 55 people to talk about books that shaped their lives. Here are just a few samples. You may remember Oprah’s Book Club, but do you remember one of the first authors singled out by Oprah? It was
Jacquelyn Mitchard and she tells readers that books were a refuge for her in her youth. The book which she found most inspiring
was A Tree Grows in Brooklyn. "Begin with the end in mind" became a phrase which changed
Lisa Nichols’ spirit. She discovered a new direction for her life and grew to become a motivational speaker. This empowering
phrase comes from Stephen Covey’s book The 7 Habits of Highly Effective People. Have
you ever read Victor Frankl’s Man’s Search for Meaning? If not, you haven’t discovered the teachings
that influenced Doreen Virtue’s attitude. "What’s a space cadet?" was the question
Nancy Pearl asked herself when at age ten she found Heinlein’s Space Cadet on the shelves of her local library.
While reading Space Cadet, Pearl learned that books truly are gateways to new worlds and vicariously to new experiences.
You’ve Got to Read This Book! provides readers with a compilation of "must read" books. Following
these suggestions could open the imagination to more adventures. I’ve already previously read a few of the books mentioned
and I plan to read several more.
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