Book Review: 'Spiritual Activator' by Oliver Niño

✰✰✰✰✰ Presented in an easy to follow format, world-renowned energy healer, Oliver Niño, leads you through five steps to help you learn how to protect, clear, and raise your energy. For beginning and advanced students of energy work alike, this book is approachable and informative. The tips and exercises are easy, fun, and practical. You will wonder: Why didn't I think of that? You already have the tools you need, but sometimes we need a little help learning how to use them. This book is for anyone who has been told they are 'overly sensitive' to energy, who feels uncomfortable in crowds, or who can sense the vibration of places and events. The information presented here may give you more clarity and peace as you learn to protect your energy. 

The Bottom Line: Oliver's book is wonderfully easy to follow and fun. His writing style is engaging; you can probably read through this in a weekend. However, the exercises and steps may take awhile as you learn to implement the practical tips presented here.  You will learn about yourself and others as you work through the exercises and meditations. You will discover that you held the keys to your personal development all along. And don't forget to access additional content on Oliver's website. Enthusiastically recommended for anyone who has the desire to learn about energy, both their own and that of other people and places. [Note: I actually read this book a year ago. I waited to write my review because I wanted to see if I felt the same way over time, and I do. I'm currently reading the book a second time, to reinforce what I've learned because the tools included here are so approachable and positive.]

Details: Spiritual Activator: 5 Steps to Clearing, Unblocking, and Protecting Your Energy to Attraction More Love, Joy, and Purpose by Oliver  Niño. Hardcover published by Hay House, Inc. in 2023. 200 p. ISBN: 978-1-4019-6771-0 

Book Review: 'Psychic Protection' by William Bloom

✰✰✰✰½ Have you ever been told you're too sensitive? Are you an empath who struggles with being in crowded places? Do certain people drain your energy? Can you 'sense' the energy in a place? If so, you may want to check out this classic book on how to protect yourself in those situations and more. This book gives you the basic information to understand more about energy, both your own and those from other sources. It also provides the reader with strategies on how to protect, cleanse, and bless people and places to achieve happiness and calm. 

The Bottom Line: This classic book is highly recommended for those searching to learn more about energy and how to positively influence energies in people and places. If you are 'sensitive' to energy and want to learn how to manage it better, there are many helpful tips in this book. The practical ideas presented here may help you navigate through life's challenging events like dealing with difficult co-workers or going to meetings. While the presentation and language of the book is a bit dated, the information contained within is thoughtful and current. It includes an index and resources. However, it would be best to check the author's website before relying on the resources in the book.

Details: Psychic Protection: Creating Positive Energies for People and Places by William Bloom. Paperback published by Simon & Schuster (A Fireside Book) in 1997. 176 p. ISBN: 0-684-83519-3 

Book Review: 'The Secret' by Rhonda Byrne

✰✰✰½ This slim book was a bestselling self-help book when first published. At the time, it seemed like everyone was reading it. With tips, quotes, and anecdotes, Byrne introduces the reader to the basics of the Law of Attraction. This collection of introductory manifestation techniques includes suggestions from all the top names in the field including Michael Bernard Beckwith, Jack Canfield, Robert Collier, Joe Vitale, Lisa Nichols, and many more. Pick this book up if you are eager to get started in manifesting today.

The Bottom Line: This book is accessible and very easy to read; however, the information is provided in fragments. The examples are inspiring. While it is a fascinating introduction to the Law of Attraction, this is just the tip of the iceberg, and readers interested in the topic will want to seek out further information. Nevertheless, this book is heartily recommended for those just beginning to learn about how to manifest. 

Details: The Secret by Rhonda Byrne. Hardcover published by Atria Books/Beyond Words in 2006. 198 p. ISBN: 978-1-58270-170-7

Book Review: 'With Winning in Mind' by Lanny Bassham

✰✰✰✰✰ Lanny Bassham is an Olympic Champion and motivational author. His systematic approach to mental preparation is recognized around the world. Through his personal journey to become an Olympic medalist, Lanny discovered and honed the Mental Management System. Whether you are looking to take your sport to the next level or simply wanting to make a change in your life, you too can find success by applying this method.

The Bottom Line: The format of this book is easy to read and follow. Bassham walks you through the system step-by-step. Filled with examples and exercises, this book will help you realize your goals. Whether you want to win at sports, work, or life this is the book for you. Highly recommended for anyone interested in personal development and career development as well as for athletes (of any sport) looking to improve their performance.

Details: With Winning in Mind (Third edition) by Lanny Bassham. Paperback published by Mental Management Systems in 2012. 182 p. ISBN: 978-1934324264

Book Review: 'The Orchid Thief' by Susan Orlean

✰✰✰✰ Orchids have been coveted for over a hundred years. Who can resist the beauty of something so complex and exquisite? With over 28,000 species of orchids, you can never have them all, and new ones are being discovered or bred as we speak. But how do these orchids get found? Who goes out and discovers them? Just like in the Victorian era, orchid hunters are still out there. Although orchids are protected, that doesn't stop some from poaching and selling them. Someone like John Laroche, a self-taught expert on orchids, who leads a group of Seminoles into their native land to collect specimens. But what possesses people to find these orchids, to collect them, to possess them? By delving into interviews and research, the author uncovers what it is that drives these people to keep on collecting even when the stakes are high.

The Bottom Line: What started out as an article, led to a fascinating book about an eccentric individual, orchids, history, and the author. There is a lot of technical information and botanical names that might not appeal to some, but read it in small chunks and enjoy the experience. Recommended for those interested in orchids, human nature, and social groups.

Book Club Notes: Our spring meeting was again in the hybrid format, and surprisingly we are still 50/50 (half attending in-person and half attending virtually via Zoom). While hybrid is not the optimal format for a book discussion, and we are still perfecting our set-up, we made do with the situation to accommodate everyone's comfort levels. Technology challenges aside (and there were several), we enjoyed a spirited discussion about both the book and the movie (Adaptation). In short, the book we liked; the movie we didn't. 

We were all in agreement that the book features fascinating stories about people, plants, science, and history. It delves into the evolutionary aspects of plants and insects as well as the social aspect of belonging to a group. Several in the group liked that the author touched on the human nature of orchid collecting. While some aspects of the book may have been a bit too technical for some, each of us came away from the discussion having learned something (which is actually the goal of our book club). And an interesting note: Those who listened to the audiobook seemed to enjoy the experience better than those of us who read a print copy. Overall, the book garnered an average rating of 4.1 on a scale of 1 - 5, with 5 being the highest. 

The movie, on the other hand, received an average rating of only 0.6. This is the lowest rating of a book or movie in our club ever. Except for the celebrity cast, our group sadly had nothing positive to say about the film experience. It was disappointing and not what we expected. That being said, I did have to wonder if we would have enjoyed the film more if we had watched it without reading the book.

The book is definitely recommended for book clubs interested in botany, science, history, and human nature. Unfortunately, we cannot recommend the movie at all. The paperback copy included A Reader's Guide with a conversation with the author and discussion questions. If your copy doesn't include this, check out Reading Group Guides for discussion questions.

Details: The Orchid Thief: A True Story of Beauty and Obsession by Susan Orlean. Paperback published by Ballantine Books in 2014. 320 p. ISBN: 978-0-449-00371-8 

Book Review: 'Girl, Interrupted' by Susanna Kaysen

✰✰✰✰½ When does a person cross the line from normal teenager to mental patient? Back in 1967 Susanna Kaysen was put in a taxi and ended up at McLean Hospital. Under the impression she was just going there for a little “rest,” Susanna checked herself in at just eighteen years old and soon discovered that she couldn’t leave until the doctors said she could. While the hospital was progressive at the time and featured an A-list of patients including Sylvia Plath and Ray Charles, life at McLean Hospital was anything but a vacation.

A bewildered Susanna navigated the system while taking an endless supply of pills, attending therapy sessions, and following the rules. Along the way she met the other patients, each with their own mental health issues varying from anorexia to sociopathy. Susanna herself was dealing with a diagnosis of Borderline Personality Disorder, which she is acutely aware of and yet voices her doubts. Nevertheless, she took advantage of the resources available to her and was eventually able to be released from the hospital.

The Bottom Line: Although Kaysen’s experience happened in 1967, her story is still relevant today. Kaysen included files from her case record, which adds to the veracity of her accounts. Supplemented with anecdotes and observations from her journal, Kaysen’s perception of mental illness and the treatment she received provides valuable insight into life as a patient in a mental hospital. Highly recommended for college students, mental health professionals, and anyone interested in mental health issues.

Book Club Notes: Similar to the late 1960s, the current world is a chaotic place overwhelmed by social issues, racism, and war. Adding in a pandemic and the pressures of economic instability have resulted in a mental health crisis. My hope in choosing this title was to open the door to discussing these issues.

Although this book is slim, it is not an easy read by any means and sensitive readers may want to skip this one. Nonetheless, those that read this book found it worthwhile. The author’s writing is genuine and vulnerable as she provided insight from firsthand experience. We appreciated the straightforwardness of her writing style. The movie, on the other hand, received mixed reviews. Those of us who had seen the movie when it first came out over twenty years ago had very different perspectives now. The experience was similar to the author describing Vermeer’s painting, Girl Interrupted at her Music. Sometimes perspectives change with the experience of living.

Overall, on a scale from 1 - 5, with 5 being the highest, we rated the book an average of 4.75, and the movie received a 4. While the movie is well done, if you are looking for the real story, check out the book.

To help guide your discussion, check out this reading guide for thought provoking discussion questions: Penguin Random House, 

Details: Girl, Interrupted by Susanna Kaysen. Paperback edition published by Vintage Books, A Division of Random House, Inc. in 1993. 192 p. ISBN: 978-0-679-74604-1 

Book Review: 'Ordinary People' by Judith Guest

✰✰✰✰✰ Cal and Beth Jarrett are the All-American dream couple. With successful careers and two outstanding teen sons, the Jarretts are comfortable in their lives. Unfortunately, life can change in an instant. After a tragedy leaves the family with only one son, the Jarretts must learn to move forward, but how? The loss of their oldest, Buck, is too much for them to process as each turns inwards. 

Without the support and attention of his parents, Conrad, the remaining son, attempts to take his life. The aftermath of this second tragedy is an even bigger struggle for Cal and Beth as they continue to deal with the loss of Buck. As Conrad returns to high school and tries to navigate his classes, Cal & Beth are at odds with how to help. Will they be able to find the support they need to heal as a family or will the aftermath of tragedy be too much for the Jarretts? Whether you are reading this book for the first time or the tenth time, the ending will haunt you.

The Bottom Line: Although first published in 1976, this novel still deserves a place on your bookshelf. It's a quick read that immediately connects and stays with the reader. Guest has an innate understanding of the internal dialogue people experience when faced with personal loss, grief, and depression. Each character expresses their grief differently, and Guest did a superb job tackling a tough subject. Highly recommended for teen, new adult, and adult readers. This novel would be perfect for discussion groups. Additionally, this book was made into a movie with a stellar cast you won't want to miss.

Details: Ordinary People by Judith Guest. Paperback published by Penguin Books in 1982. 272 p. ISBN: 0-14-006517-2 

Book Review: 'Your4Truths: How Beliefs Impact Your Life' by Judy Kane

✰✰✰½  If you have recently found yourself struggling in life and experiencing stress, this just might be the book for you. Everyone has the power to change their lives, and it starts with identifying the four basic beliefs that can impact you. These subconscious beliefs have been ingrained into our lives since childhood and may be the root of our limitations. By changing these beliefs, anyone can move forward and make the decisions you want rather than decisions based on reactions to fear or self-doubt. 

The Bottom Line: While this is not a how-to book for the layperson new to the theories of PSYCH-K, it does get one thinking about what is troubling you. By learning about the four beliefs and reading about real-life examples of how changing your internal beliefs can help people live their best lives, you can begin to identify which subconscious thoughts are blocking you. Recommended for the individual who is curious about PSYCH-K. Also, recommended for those familiar with the concepts already. The ideas introduced in this slim book are intriguing.

Details: Your4Truths: How Beliefs Impact Your Life by Judy Kane. Published by Highlander Press in 2021. 112 p. ISBN: 978-1-7372638-1-4 NOTE: I received a free copy from the publisher in exchange for an honest review. This was made possible via the Early Reviewers program at LibraryThing. 

Book Review: 'Bug in a Vacuum' by Mélanie Watt

✰✰✰✰ A little bug just happens to be flying along and minding its own business, when it ends up in a house. Just when it begins to get comfy...whoosh! One minute the little bug is innocently just sitting there, and the next minute, it finds itself trapped inside a cavernous metal container. What is a bug to do? 

With nothing but dust bunnies to talk to, the little bug starts wondering why. This can't really be happening...or can it? After a bit of questioning, bargaining, sadness, and lots of drama, the little bug must make a choice. And just when it accepts its fate of being stuck inside a vacuum, the unexpected happens.

The Bottom Line: Have you ever wondered what happens to the little spiders and bugs that get swallowed up by the vacuum cleaner?  Well, this clever picture book takes you along the journey of one trapped bug. With a little bit of humor, Watt illustrates the stages of grief that we all go through at some point in our lives with this thoughtful and sensitive picture book featuring bold artwork in mixed media. Highly recommended for kids ages 5 - 9  going through unexpected turmoil or loss.

Details: Bug in a Vacuum written & illustrated by Mélanie Watt. Picture book published by Tundra Books in 2015. 96 p. ISBN: 978-1-77049-645-3

Book Review: 'A Beautiful Day in the Neighborhood' by Fred Rogers

✰✰✰✰½ What would Mister Rogers do? It's a popular question many ask especially during troubling times like these. Fred Rogers was a respected television personality known for for his ability to bring calm and understanding into this crazy world. He had an amazing gift to be able to connect with preschoolers and young children on their level. But what made him tick? What made his show such a success? And what made him special?

In 1998, Tom Junod was given an assignment to write an article about a quiet, unassuming man. Junod shadowed the man as he went about his business and even visited the man's childhood hometown. Known for his cynicism, Junod set out to uncover the sordid truth about this man, but it was Junod who would soon be surprised because the man had nothing to hide. The man was authentic and compassionate. That man was Fred Rogers, and it turned out that Fred Rogers and Mister Rogers were one and the same, a very caring, compassionate individual.

The Bottom Line: This book features Tom Junod's original piece for Esquire, "Can you Say...Hero?" It was the inspiration for the hit movie, A Beautiful Day in the Neighborhood, and this is the first time this classic article has appeared in book form. Also, included in this book are a collection of words of wisdom, advice, and observations from Fred Rogers about topics like relationships, childhood, parenthood, learning, and discipline. Highly recommended reading for both new and experienced parents. Also, highly recommended for teachers, students of early childhood, education, and psychology, and everyone who enjoyed watching Mister Rogers' Neighborhood as a child. 

Book Club Notes: It's a new year and the perfect time to start out with a positive, encouraging topic.  A Beautiful Day in the Neighborhood was well received by our members for the first virtual discussion of the year. With an average rating of 4.75 on a scale of 1 - 5 with 5 being the highest, the movie was by far more popular than the book which received an average rating of 3.5. One of the reasons for this is because some members felt that the book read more like a textbook. There are definitely parts of the book that will appeal to both educators and students of education alike. However, others commented that this is exactly what appealed to them about the book, and they would highly recommend it to both new and experienced parents as well as anyone who remembers Mister Rogers' Neighborhood. 

As for the movie, Tom Hanks had a phenomenal performance. His portrayal of Fred Rogers  allowed the essence of Rogers to shine through. Though much of the storyline between character Lloyd Vogel and his father is fiction, the friendship between Vogel and Rogers in the movie is authentic. This is a timely, entertaining movie about compassion and forgiveness; in fact, it's perfect for the turbulent times we are facing today.

Finally, as we continue to meet virtually, we are becoming more accustomed to the quirks of discussing books online. Nevertheless, we are grateful for the technology as meeting virtually has allowed us to continue to read and discuss nonfiction that reads like fiction. Both the book and the movie are enthusiastically recommended for everyone.

Groups looking for discussion questions can check out the movie guide and the faith-based movie guide. Additional questions can be found at Teach with Movies. 

Details: A Beautiful Day in the Neighborhood: Neighborly Words of Wisdom from Mister Rogers (Movie Tie-in) by Fred Rogers. Paperback published by Penguin Books in 2019. 208 p. ISBN: 978-0-14-313538-8

Book Review: 'Papa Goose' by Michael Quetting

✰✰✰½ As a researcher for the Max Planck Institute for Ornithology in Germany, author Michael Quetting had the opportunity to be involved in an amazing experiment. His mission: to raise geese from hatchlings, teach them to fly, and gather flight data. For eleven months, Quetting took his charges for daily swims and made sure they were well taken care of. Along the way, he learned that each had its own personality from feisty to cuddly. Just like raising human children, the author discovered there were ups and downs to parenting seven little ones. Check out this book and join the adventure of a lifetime. 

The Bottom Line: The dedication the author had to see this experiment through was amazing. Filled with humor and packed with information, this is a very quick read that will interest nature lovers and students of biology.

Details: Papa Goose: One Year, Seven Goslings, and the Flight of My Life by Michael Quetting. ARC published by Greystone Books in 2018. 248 p. ISBN: 978-1-77164-361-0 NOTE:  I received a free copy from the publisher in exchange for an honest review. This was made possible via the Early Reviewers program at LibraryThing. 

Book Review: 'The Inkblots: Hermann Rorschach, His Iconic Test, and the Power of Seeing' by Damion Searls

✰✰✰½ The inkblots are famous. Seen in advertising, print, and popular movies, it seems that just about everyone has heard of the Rorschach test. The test, created in 1921 to study thought disorder, was the brainchild of psychiatrist, Hermann Rorschach. Little was known about the fascinating man behind the test, until Damion Searls took the time to research both the biography of the man and the history of the test.

Rorschach was born of poverty in Switzerland in 1884. He would grow up to be intelligent, innovative, handsome, and driven. In his brief life, he accomplished more than most do in 80 years. Rorschach died shortly after creating his one-of-a-kind test. At the time Rorschach could not have forseen the impact his test would have on everything from college admissions to screening military soldiers. His test still influences the field of psychology even today.

The Bottom Line: This book is like two books in one: a biography of Hermann Rorschach and a history of the Rorschach test. I found the information about Herman Rorschach to be fascinating especially because he died in the prime of his life. Nevertheless, this was a slow read. Recommended for academic libraries serving both undergraduate and graduate students in psychology. Public libraries also serving college communities may consider purchasing as well. Note: This review was based on an uncorrected proof copy and the color plates were not included. 

Details: The Inkblots: Hermann Rorschach, His Iconic Test, and the Power of Seeing by Damion Searls. Uncorrected proof copy published by Crown in 2017. 416 p. ISBN:  978-0-8041-3654-9  NOTE: I received a free galley copy from Penguin Random House in exchange for an honest review. This was made possible by the Early Reviewers Program at LibraryThing. 

Book Review: 'Gratitude' by Oliver Sacks

✰✰✰✰✰ When faced with their own mortality, some people become more productive and insightful. Knowing that your days are limited sometimes gives a person clarity and focus. In the face of death, these people learn what cannot be taught. They possess an appreciation for today; an appreciation for what they have, instead of pining away for things they don't.

Dr. Oliver Sacks was a brilliant physician and the author of more than a dozen books. After his cancer returned, he penned several essays in which he explored coming to terms with death...his death. Rather than feeling bitter and angry, Sacks uncovered a feeling of gratitude for having been a part of this world.

In this book, Sacks describes beauty, love, and adventure in his memories of the past and current thoughts as he faced his own mortality. Sacks also talks about the friends who have passed before him and those he himself would leave behind. This beautiful and inspirational book is all too brief, just like life itself.

The Bottom Line: This quick read will make you think about your own life and what really matters. Composed of just four essays, I read this book several times. This book left me asking myself the following: What are my real priorities? When was the last time I stopped to enjoy what I have? How can I be kinder to others?

Parts of this little, but amazingly powerful book have been previously published. However, when read together these essays bring the reader to a new understanding of what it means to really be alive. As Dr. Sacks pointed out, sometimes it takes being faced with death to learn how to really live. A must-read for everyone!

Details: Gratitude by Oliver Sacks. Hardcover published by Alfred A. Knopf in 2015. 64 p. ISBN: 9780451-49293-7

Book Review: 'Amish Grace' by Donald Kraybill

✰✰✰✰ Ten years ago, a local milkman invaded an Amish schoolhouse and took hostages. Before the day was over, ten girls between the ages of six and thirteen had been shot. Five would die, and Charles Roberts committed suicide. As the world watched, at first in horror and then in amazement, the Amish responded to what became known as the Amish 9/11 with grace and forgiveness instead of rage and vengeance.

This is the story of how these grieving families responded together as a devoted Christian community. While many non-Amish observers admired the Amish for their strength and convictions, others criticized them. Did they forgive too quickly? Was their forgiveness authentic? The issues raised in this book illuminate the many different acts of grace that can be found in the most unexpected places. 

The Bottom Line: Amish Grace is a book that inspires the reader to explore their faith. By recounting this tragic incident in the history of the Amish and exploring the acts of grace in the months that followed, the authors raise many questions. This is a story of forgiveness that has been shaped by the history  and culture of the Amish. Recommended for clergy, historians, psychologists, and those interested in personal reflection and religion. 

Book Club Notes: A dedicated group of book club members gave up watching a Cubs game and braved foul weather to attend. They were ready to tackle the topics of religion and forgiveness. By taking an inside look at what the Amish can teach us about forgiveness, grace, healing, and moving forward, each of us reflected upon our own experiences. We all come from different backgrounds, and while we sometimes disagreed, this book brought out a thoughtful, engaging discussion. There is a discussion guide available in the book or you can download a PDF copy here. For those who have taken it a step further and also viewed the movie, you can find sermon outlines here. Also, here is a thoughtful study guide from GodChicks. While this book and the topic of forgiveness were a more challenging read, it provided us with a new perspective. Overall, the ratings in the group averaged 4.5 stars, and we would highly recommend it for book clubs interested in learning about Amish culture, Christian living, faith, and religion.

Details: Amish Grace: How Forgiveness Transcended Tragedy by Donald B. Kraybill, Steven M. Nolt, and David L. Weaver-Zercher. Paperback published by Jossey-Bass in 2007. 288 p. ISBN: 978-0-470-34404-0 

Book Review: 'Look Me In the Eye' by John Elder Robison

✰✰✰✰ Imagine not being able to make a connection with other people even though you long to. As a young child, author John Elder Robison often played alone even though he wanted to play with other children. Robison’s peculiar behavior caused him to be viewed as an odd misfit or even worse as a social deviant. Things that came so easily to others, like smiling and conversation, were a challenge for Robison.

Misunderstood at school, Robison eventually dropped out. Luckily, he fell in with a group of musicians where his talents with electronics, sound, and special effects were appreciated, and his quirks were overlooked. While the clues to his odd behavior were always there, he went undiagnosed for four decades. Finally receiving his diagnosis of Asperger's explained a lot.

Through engaging stories that include putting his little brother in a five-foot deep hole to traveling with the rock group KISS to raising a child, Robison educates the reader about the autism spectrum.

The Bottom Line: When this book was first published there was very little out there in regards to first person accounts of what it is like to live with autism. Robison’s book brings the autism spectrum into the spotlight and educates readers about the often misunderstood disorder. Robison is a very high functioning Aspergian, who can describe what he has experienced.

While his writing style is a bit robotic and there is some repetition, this book illustrates how the author can understand and relate to machines so well. The author reminds everyone that there are some disabilities you can’t see. Highly recommended reading for schools discussing bullying and accepting differences. This is an interesting look into Asperger’s Syndrome from the point of view of someone who had an awareness of what it's like to be different.

Book Club Notes: On a scale from 1 being the lowest to 5 being the highest, the group rating averaged about 3.25 stars with a range from 2 to 4.5 stars. While this discussion was very well attended, half the group really enjoyed the book and the other half did not. Everyone was eager to share their thoughts on this book. Some participants simply did not like the author, while others did not like the pranks he pulled. A few were concerned about the language and, thus, would not recommend it to others. One person felt that Robison’s story did not represent autism in general. That being said, we did agree that the author was brave and honest in the telling of his story. Also, we agreed that this book opened a dialogue about what it means to be different. Many of us will be checking out his other books and titles by his younger brother, Augusten Burroughs, as well.

For those concerned about coarse language, check out the paperback edition; the language has been cleaned up for younger readers. Even though there was a wide range of ratings, book clubs looking to discuss bullying, family dynamics, education, and autism will want to check this out. While it is true some of us had to agree to disagree, everyone had something to say about this book. Plus, best of all, we all learned something, which is one of the reasons we enjoy discussing nonfiction.

Check out the reading guide at LitLovers.

Details: Look Me In the Eye: My Life with Asperger’s by John Elder Robison. Paperback published by Broadway Books in 2008. 302 p. ISBN: 978-0-307-39618-1

Book Review: 'Surviving Survival' by Laurence Gonzales

✰✰✰✰½ Congratulations on being a survivor! But now what? How do you cope with life after you have survived? What separates those who move forward from those who have sunk into depression? Laurence Gonzales, the author of Deep Survival, takes a look at these questions and more in this book. Each chapter focuses on a different survivor's story and way of coping. Indeed, each story was specifically chosen to illustrate the key traits of surviving in the aftermath of trauma. By taking a look at these very different examples of trauma, Gonzales illustrates coping mechanisms that anyone can use to embrace life. Additionally, the book concludes with a chapter dedicated to The Rules of Life; which are twelve strategies to help the reader navigate a life after trauma.

The Bottom Line: When deciding to write this book Gonzales decided not to focus on his own story. Instead he included the survival stories of many others ranging from shark attack to cancer to being trapped alive. No matter what you have experienced in your life, chances are you can find a story to identify with your situation. Readers will be inspired to move forward, by taking a look at how others have overcome trauma.

Additionally, the author takes a look at the science and research behind survival and resiliency. Although many of the concepts in this book are of an academic nature, the book is very readable and the writing is engaging. This powerful read is very highly recommended for anyone who has survived a natural disaster, fought cancer, seen combat, or is just looking for inspiration. Note for sensitive readers: Many of these stories of survival are graphic and sometimes disturbing.

Details: Surviving Survival: The Art and Science of Resilience by Laurence Gonzales. Hardcover published by W. W. Norton & Company in 2012. 272 p. ISBN: 978-0-393-08318-7

Book Review: 'Survival Lessons' by Alice Hoffman

✰✰✰✰✰ When confronted with a time of crisis, it's easy to forget the beauty in the world. Fifteen years after a bout of cancer, author Alice Hoffman wrote this book to remind herself of the beauty of life. By doing so, she also reminds readers that although we may not have chosen our situation, we do indeed have choices in how we face it. Hoffman reminds us that without sorrow, there would be no joy. Without heartache, there would be no love.

Survival Lessons is like having a conversation with a trusted best friend. Hoffman's life observations will help those who have experienced trauma to move forward and reclaim their lives. You will see yourself and those around you differently after reading this book.

The Bottom Line: This book includes twenty short chapters that present the reader with choices one can make to move forward in life. Sprinkled with photographs and inspirational quotes, Hoffman even includes a knitting pattern and a recipe or two. This book is small and can easily be read in one sitting, which is great when you are recuperating from an illness and don't have too much energy. Hoffman's words are gentle and honest; her writing will leave your spirit feeling refreshed. Highly recommended for anyone who has survived a crisis whether physical or emotional.

Details: Survival Lessons by Alice Hoffman. Hardcover published by Algonquin Books in 2013. 96 p. ISBN: 978-1-61620-314-6

Book Review: 'Here's the Bright Side' by Betty Rollin

✰✰✰½ Life is full of challenges, and author Betty Rollin has faced many. From being fired to divorcing to surviving cancer, Rollin has somehow managed to find the bright side of things and thrive. Through the use of humor and anecdotes, Rollin reveals how one can find the good within the bad.

The Bottom Line: This very quick read is for anyone who has ever found themselves in a dark place and searched for a way out. Rollin writes from experience about emotional recovery and making the most of a bad situation. Her writing style is upbeat and easy to read. Recommended reading for anyone facing adversity.

Details: Here's the Bright Side: Of Failure, Fear, Cancer, Divorce, and Other Bum Raps by Betty Rollin. Hardcover published by Random House in 2007. 128 p. ISBN: 978-1-4000-6565-3

Book Review: 'Grace of Gratitude Journal' by Deborah Perdue

✰✰✰✰½ How many times do we overlook the simplest things in life? If you are like me, all too often. By learning to stop and record the ordinary things in life, journaling can bring about feelings of contentment, a sense of personal well-being, gratitude, and appreciation. Before you know it, recognizing and writing down gratitudes will become a natural part of your daily life.

While there are many gratitude journals out there, this one is different from others. With a unique blend of Deborah Perdue's personal gratitudes and Tara Thelen's beautiful and bold watercolor illustrations, even beginning journalers will find ample inspiration. Let the spiritual practice of expressing gratitude bring feelings of peace and contentment into your life.

The Bottom Line: Whether you are new to journaling or have be keeping one for years, the beautiful illustrations will inspire you to commit to jotting down as many gratitudes per day as you notice. There is plenty of space to include several days on one page, especially if you write small like I do. All it takes is a few moments per day, and you, too, can discover the power of gratitude. This journal has broad appeal and would make a great gift for just about anyone including new graduates. Highly recommended for anyone interested in journaling. More pages to write on (or blank pages to include my own drawings and doodles) would be appreciated.

Details: Grace of Gratitude Journal by Deborah Perdue & illustrated by Tara Thelen. Hardcover published by Applegate Valley Publishing in 2015. 112 p. ISBN: 978-0-9827759-5-0 NOTE: I received a free copy from the publisher in exchange for an honest review. This was made possible by the Early Reviewers program at LibraryThing.

Book Review: Moonwalking with Einstein:The Art and Science of Remembering Everything by Joshua Foer

✰✰✰ When science journalist Joshua Foer went to the 2005 U.S. Memory Championship as an observer, little did he know then that just a year later, he would find himself competing in the finals as a mental athlete. Moonwalking with Einstein is the story of Foer's journey to learn the art of memory in a world dependent on both the printed and electronic word. After all, why should we bother with the science of remembering when information about everything is at our fingertips? With just the click of a mouse, we can have the answers instantaneously.

Nevertheless, Foer makes the argument for the benefits of learning the science of remembering. This fascinating book blends the following together seamlessly: 1.) historical information, 2.) the science of memorization, 3.) anecdotes, and 4.) Foer's personal narrative as he sets out to compete in the U.S. memory championships. While the anecdotes were memorable, it was interesting reading about Foer's transformation from journalist to mental athlete. With a little bit of hard work, Foer proves that anyone can learn these techniques.

The Bottom Line: This is an easy read for anyone interested in the science of memory. The material is presented in a straightforward, easy-to-read fashion. While this is not a self-help book, Foer has included several techniques which can be learned by anyone to improve their ability to remember. However, these skills are not quick fixes; the techniques do take time to perfect. Recommended for those interested in memory and brain science. All in all, this book would make a great addition to college bound reading lists. 

On a side note, I read this book for my book club. Foer's use of a conversational writing style is easy to digest and discuss. Our group had an excellent discussion, but we couldn't help wonder what Foer's next project will be. For others interested in using this for a book club, you can find discussion questions at LitLovers and About.com Bestsellers.

Details: Moonwalking with Einstein: The Art and Science of Remembering Everything by Joshua Foer. Hardcover published by Penguin Group in 2011. 320 p. ISBN: 978-1-59420-229-2