The Temptation of the Midnight Bird: Last Turn, Elena Zhuravleva, 2022

 The Temptation of the Midnight Bird: Last Turn, Elena Zhuravleva, 2022

Set in present-day Europe, this story is about a pair of sisters, and a horrible event that happened several years previously.

Lisa is a journalist for a local news website. She is haunted by less-than-clear memories of the night her sister, Laura, was sexually assaulted by a man named Alexander. Lisa really doesn't remember whether or not she killed Alexander by whacking him on the head with a bottle. Laura vanished that night, and has not been seen since.

Lisa encounters people who seem to know what really happened that night. They include a nosy, older woman named Martha, and a robotic voice on her phone telling her to go here or go there. Do Lisa and Laura ever find each other? Does Lisa ever get answers about what happened that night?

Included is a separate story story about a hacker who develops a program that allows the authorities to track criminals while they are still in the planning stages. He offers the program to the police, who are not interested. They suddenly get interested, for the wrong reasons, when the program shows that the police are frequently the bad guys.

Both of these stories are really good suspense thrillers. There is some violence, along with first-rate writing throughout. These tales are very much worth reading.

The Secrets to Happy Parenting, Happy Kids

 The Secrets to Happy Parenting, Happy Kids, Nijel James, 2022

Raising a child can be one of the most challenging, and most rewarding, jobs for any adult. This book gives some pointers.

Are you a permissive or uninvolved parent? (I have a child?) Are you an authoritative or authoritarian parent? (It's my way or the highway.) Every child is motivated, or "reached," in a different way. Your job, as a parent, is to find out what will motivate your child. Is your child an introvert, preferring to stay home and read, or draw, instead of playing at the playground, or doing team sports? Attempting to turn your child into a sports-loving extrovert, because that's what you were at that age, is a very bad idea.

Your job is not to be your child's friend, but help them to navigate through this thing called "life." Don't make the boundaries in life like concrete barriers, but find some way to show them, or tell them, that Behavior A is acceptable, but Behavior B is not acceptable.

Spend some one-on-one time with your child; show them that you care about them. Take them to the playground, or to a movie. Leave the cellphone in the car. It may take a long time for your child to feel comfortable talking to you about school, job or romance. Let them know that you are available when that time comes.

"Do as I say, not as I do." That will not work when raising a child. You can tell your child to be tolerant of others, but talking, and acting, like an anti-immigrant racist will not help your child. You are encourages to ask for ideas from other parents. What worked for them may not work for you.

This is a gem of a book. It is clear, concise and easy to read. It is recommended for any parent, or future parent.

Sri Devi Mahatmyam for Kids: Glories of the Feminine God in Hinduism

 Sri Devi Mahatmyam for Kids: Glories of the Feminine God in Hinduism, Ishwar Joshi Awalgaonkar, 2022

This book is a child's version of one of the major gods of the Hindu religion - Devi - the Feminine God. She is the Mother. She is the Protector. She is the SuperHero.

The story is told of two brothers, Shumbha and Nishumbha, who were powerful gods in their own right. They were not beings to be ignored. Both were very interested in Devi, because she was very beautiful. Devi, who lived alone on the top of a high mountain, turned down their marriage proposal. The brothers sent an army to convince her to reconsider. At that time, a woman's place was in the home, and they should leave war to the men.

Devi showed her extreme disinterest in the proposal by killing the general, and wiping out most of the army. Those that were left got back to the brothers and told them the tale. Another army was sent, and another, with the same result. One of the generals had a unique superpower. Every time a drop of his blood hit the ground, a fully-formed, adult clone of him instantly appeared. Devi was surrounded by thousands of the same general; things were not looking good. Devi figured a way around it, and killed the general, and all the clones, and also wiped out the army.

Finally, Shumbha and Nishumbha took on Devi, personally. After a titanic battle, Nishumbha fell in battle. Seeing his brother dead, Shumbha and Devi had the Battle To End All Battles; all other combatants got out of the way.

This book is surprisingly good. The other does an excellent job at telling the story in simple terms. It is not a boring story; there is enough action for anyone. The book is also recommended for those who are not of the Hindu religion.

Here are the Pros and Cons When You Decide to Bring the "Bedroom" to Work

 Here are the Pros and Cons When You Decide to Bring the "Bedroom" to Work, Melissa Owens, 2022

For long-time employees of a company, acquiring a "work wife" or "work husband" is almost normal. Turning that "romance" into a real romance can work out favorably for both parties. Usually, "disaster" is a better description of the outcome.

A married woman works the late shift at a kitchen. She hires handsome young men for sex after everyone else leaves. Her newest hire threatens to blow the whistle on her. She threatens him with immediate termination. He threatens her with a sexual harassment lawsuit. Her husband finds out about it.

A local pastor travels to women's houses, at night, for private "counseling." His wife follows him, and finds out that they are having sex. She immediately leaves him, and a divorce soon follows.

A maintenance man at an apartment complex is very honest and reliable when it comes to maintenance. He is also very handsome, and provides sex to women whose husbands are constantly traveling for business, or younger women who are between boyfriends. He is very honest with them, saying that he can't be tied down to one woman at a time. As long as both parties have their eyes wide open, the arrangement can work out.

These short stories are very well done, and can take place anywhere in America. For anyone thinking about such "extracurricular activities," think twice, and then think again, before doing anything, and then read this book. It is very eye-opening.

A Black Woman's Journey

 A Black Woman's Journey, Melissa Owens, 2022

These stories are about one woman's journey through the world of love and relationships. While growing up, she didn't have a male role model, so she had to learn these lessons through experience.

She became a teen mom by a boy who wanted nothing to do with the baby, until after it was born. His mother was much more interested in the baby than he was. She meets a man who is separated from his wife. The relationship seems to have possibilities, until he learns that she has been in a serious auto accident. He decides to move back in with her; this is no time to abandon her.

The author is attracted to another woman; the feeling is mutual. Before the relationship has a chance to get going, it is suddenly stopped in the most awful way imaginable.

This book is a very quick read, and a very good read. The author is very honest and vulnerable, not blaming anyone else for her decisions. It is very much worth reading.

The Ultimate Mediterranean Diet Cookbook for Beginners 2022 (2nd edition)

 The Ultimate Mediterranean Diet Cookbook for Beginners 2022 (2nd edition), Ellen Marino, Independently Published, 2022

The Mediterranean Diet is not about restricting people to certain foods, but about adding healthier foods (like fresh fruits and vegetables) to your diet. That's what this book is all about.

This diet can help prevent heart disease and Alzheimer's Disease. It can also help burn fat and manage your Type 2 diabetes. Among the suggestions are: eating healthy fats, increasing your consumption of seafood, drink wine and exercise.

There are two recipes per page, along with color pictures of what the dish is supposed to look like. There is a also a full list of ingredients and instructions. The recipes include vanilla raspberry oats, poached eggs, crispy fried sardines, chicken pizza, chicken rice, orange avocado and almond salad, cucumber bites and chocolate cake.

For anyone who wants to eat healthier, this book is a very good place to start. The author makes it very easy. Alternatively, you can just drool over the color pictures.  

From Pain Into Purpose

 From Pain Into Purpose, Andrea Baumann, 2022, Independently Published

This book is about one person's journey, from extreme emotional pain to dedicating her life to helping others.

The author grew up in 20th century Switzerland. To say that both sides of her family were dysfunctional is much too mild. Is there such a thing as "super-dysfunctional"? Lots of alcohol was consumed. There were a couple of suicides. In her 20s, the author moved to New Zealand, where she was able to regain her emotional bearings. She became interested in alternative health, including meditation, reiki and chiropractic. She was exposed to something called BodyTalk, and it changed her life. 

BodyTalk does not just treat your lower back pain, for example. The pain could be a manifestation of unresolved emotions from childhood, that need to get resolved. It could also be a symptom of unseen problems with your gallbladder. BodyTalk looks at the whole person. The book also talks about chakras and meridians. If this sounds too "New Age," consider this: Would you rather try an out-of-the-box treatment, or deal with migraine headaches, or bowel problems, for the rest of your life?

This book shows that it is possible to survive even the worst conditions at home. For those with chronic health problems, reading this book is a very good idea. 

The eSmith Short Tales

 The eSmith Short Tales: Fables and Stories from Fairytale Land, GranRan, NuSaga Press, 2020

The collection of fairy tales is about the family of a fox named eSmith. They are based on Aesop's Fables. The reader will experience eSmith's first trip to the beach, along with his first encounter with a buffalo, a boar and a lion. His father is disfigured, having lost his tail in an "accident." His mother is brash, and has red fur. She tries desperately to save him from becoming lunch for a group of hungry eagles. Color illustrations certainly help.

Here is a really good group of stories for older children. It may not be good for young children, because, like Aesop's Fables, not all of the stories end with "happily ever after." It is still a good book to read to a child, or for a child to read back. 

Chronicles of the Future Past: New World Order

 Chronicles of the Future Past: New World Order, A Elkady, 2022, Independently Published

Part 2 of a series, this illustrated book looks at the near future of humanity. It's not pretty.

The book moves between three different time periods. Of course, 9/11 is included in this book. In the present, a new type of arms race forces the American President to completely withdraw from Afghanistan. American intelligence agents are rushing around the world, hunting for those responsible, and attempting to stop the next 9/11.

In the 2060's, the False Coming sparks a new worldwide holy war. This just after the Second American Civil War in the 2050's. America, Russia and China are forced to team up against Nova Spes, a new fascist tyranny.

Since this story is all about present-day, and future, politics, many people who read it will accuse the author of being anti-this or anti-that. Relax, and take a deep breath. It is always good to know what the "other side" is thinking. My only criticism is that reading Part 1, before Part 2, is probably a good idea (I am one of those who has to read a series in order). This is a chilling look at humanity's near future, and is very highly recommended.

Anger Management Book for Kids

 Anger Management Book for Kids, The Mentor Bucket, 2022

This book presents many ways for children to express themselves when they get angry.

First of all, what caused you to get angry? Did it happen at school, on the playground or at home? Did a friend or family member treat you badly? Do you bear any part of the blame for the incident?

There are many pages in this book to express your feelings. Draw a self-portrait of your angry self. Are there lots of lightning bolts around you? There are many suggestions of ways to let out your anger. Ride your bike around the neighborhood, or otherwise get active outside. Go in your room and draw (or paint) or play a musical instrument. Sit down with a notebook, and write out how you are feeling. Journaling is always a good idea. If you consider yourself a future Gordon Ramsey, head for the kitchen, and bake something (with a parent's help, of course). The important part is to let out that anger, using whatever method works for you.

Children are not the only ones who have a hard time dealing with anger; this book will help a lot. It is very much worth reading, for children and their parents.

The Luxe Life

 The Luxe Life: A Guide to Launching a Fabulous and Thriving Online Boutique, Dee D Smith, 2022

You consider yourself a fashionista, and you have decided to open an online boutique. There are many things to consider before Opening Day.

Will you have a brick and mortar store, or will it be all online? Will you sell your items through a site like Etsy or Poshmark, or will your success depend on your own website? The name of your company should be short, and catchy, and leave no doubt in the mind of the consumer as to what you are selling.

Your company needs to be registered with your local or state tax authority. While you're there, ask them about any licenses or permits that are needed; get them, ahead of time. What is your niche? Why should a person buy from you, instead of someone else? What sort of message do you want to convey with your website? Should the site have all pastel colors, or should they be more bold and vibrant?

This book is very easy to read, and very good. It is not a comprehensive book that will answer all your questions. For anyone wanting to enter the world of online retail, here is an excellent place to start.

Anti-Inflammatory Cookbook for Beginners 2022

 Anti-Inflammatory Diet Cookbook for Beginners 2022, Lora M Stoops, Independently Published, 2022

Inflammation is your body reacting to a physical irritant. The culprit could just be summer allergies, or it could be something much more serious. Symptoms of inflammation include muscle and joint stiffness, skin disorders, fatigue, anemia, inflamed gums and low fever. Occasional inflammation is OK; it shows that your body is working properly. Chronic inflammation is not OK. It can lead to all kinds of major health problems. That is what this cookbook is all about.

This book provides many recipes made with fresh fruits and vegetables. Healthier food may just reduce the severity of the inflammation, or totally cure it. The recipes include banana pancakes with apricots, Greek salad, millet with tuna and broccoli, nugget of zucchini, soup of oysters and mushrooms, watermelon and lemongrass smoothie and beet brownies. 

For each recipe, there is a picture of the item, along with the full recipe and directions. There is also nutritional information, plus the prep and cook times. This book is recommended for anyone who simply wants to eat healthier. It is especially recommended for anyone who thinks that the symptoms of inflammation will never go away. Try this book first.

Sunflower

 Sunflower, Aleksandr Jarid, The Blue Print Works Ltd., 2022

This novel is all about freelance journalist Hugo Jensen. He is not just on the slippery slope toward hitting rock bottom, personally and professionally, Hugo is already there. He is broke, his colleagues have turned their backs on him, and his girlfriend has left him.

When all hope seems lost, a stranger befriends him and takes him on a quest of personal redemption. It involves "Sunflowers," the famous painting by Vincent Van Gogh. Does Hugo quiet the many monsters inside him, while on this quest, or does he create more emotional monsters?

This is a strong and very well-done story. The chapters switch from the past to the present, which can be confusing for the reader, or is a very good idea (it's a very good idea). It has lots of good writing, and will certainly keep the reader interested.

The Secrecy

 The Secrecy, James Butler, Independently Published, 2020

First of a series, this book is about Emma and Adam, two British teenagers who are kidnapped by a super-secret agency called The Secrecy. The pair are the agency's newest recruits. For Emma and Adam, the choice is simple: Join or Die. Their families are told that they are dead. They watch their own funerals through CCTV cameras.

Their first assignment involves a trip to northern Mexico. Kidnapping of average citizens has gotten out of hand: up to 65 people are being snatched per day. Emma and Adam's job is to put a stop to it. Even though they don't really know what they are doing, by following a clue here and a clue there, they find one of the "campsites." A couple of hundred people are locked in trucks, and they are about to be sold. All of the prisoners are untied, then there is a mass attack against the guards. Many prisoners die, but so do all of the guards. The rest of the prisoners are freed.

Emma and Adam are sent to another "campsite," where a couple of hundred more prisoners are held. This one has actual buildings, and not just several large trucks parked in the jungle. Does their luck hold out? Can they do it again?

This story is really good. It is all about "basic" spy work (for lack of a better term). It means being observant and using your brain, without the use of all sorts of high tech gadgets. I look forward to future books in this series.   

Anxiety Relief Coloring Book for Adults

 Anxiety Relief Coloring Book for Adults, Maky Publishing, 2022, ISBN 9798838010476

Has anyone considered adult coloring books as an antidote to today's 24/7, social media, world?

This book has many full-page drawings of animals to color (animals always help with relaxation). A person can let their creativity run wild, with many small areas to color on each page. There is also a black page on the back of each design to keep the colors from bleeding through the page.

This book may just start a life-long interest in art. It's recommended for those with anxiety or attention-deficit problems. It also beats beer and TV as a way to relax at the end of the day. It is very much worth considering.

Coloring Book for Adults Relaxation

 Coloring Book for Adults Relaxation, Maky Publishing, 2022, ISBN 979-8-8389-97708

In this fast-paced, 24/7 world, adults are always looking for a way to relax at the end of the day. Consider adult coloring books (it's not as silly as it sounds).

This book has all sorts of full-page designs to color. There are many small areas to color, allowing a person to let out their creativity. There are no large areas to color, like in a child's coloring book. There is a black page on the back of each page, in case the colors bleed through the page.

This book is recommended for anyone with any sort of anxiety problem. It is also a potentially better way to relax at the end of the day than with beer or TV. This book may just spark a life-long interest in art. Yes, it is worth the money.

Outdoor Gas Grill Cookbook

 Outdoor Gas Grill Cookbook, Phil Morris, Independently Published, 2022

Cooking with an outdoor gas grill has become increasingly popular in recent times. It doesn't matter if one is on a camping trip, or in their backyard with an industrial-strength smoker. 

There are many tips to follow, and a list of needed implements, before the grill is turned on. The book has one recipe per page, accompanied by a large color picture of the item. There is plenty of room on each page for the ingredients, directions and nutritional information. The print is also clear and easy to read. Among the recipes are Easy Cheese Toast, Cheesy Omelet, Easy Cooked Fried Rice, Tasty Hot Lime Chicken, Spicy Dijon Pork Tenderloin and Veggie Japanese Beef.

Do you know someone who has no problem in firing up their grill during a major rain storm, or when there is a foot of snow on the ground? Are you that person? This book is for you, whether you are a novice or veteran. It is very much worth the money. 

It's Cool to Be Kosher

 It's Cool To Be Kosher: A Kosher Foods Word Search Book for Kids and Adults, Byron L. Reeder, BR Write Publishing House LLC, 2022

Word search books are a good way for children to learn their vocabulary words, and for adults to keep their brain cells active. This book is different.

Instead of the usual vocabulary words, this books looks at various fish and animals that are clean (or unclean) under Jewish law. The reader needs to find, for example, Giant California Sea Bass, Humpback Salmon, Mutton Snapper, Pacific Ocean Perch, Sacramento Splittail, Spring Salmon and Yellowfin Croaker. The reader will also have to search for Sunflower Seeds, Sweet Potatoes, Honeydew Melons, Lemongrass, Mustard Powder, Peppercorns and Common Pigeons. 

Under the category of unclean, or non-kosher, animals, the reader will need to search for Swordfish, Calamari, Kangaroos, Earthworms, Alligators, Sea Amphibians and Ostriches. There are even answers in the back of the book, for those who are impatient, or who honestly can't find a specific name.

Here is an easy (and fun) way to use one's brain. It is recommended for young people and adults, and is worth the money.

The Aging Games

 The Aging Games: How to Come Out a Winner, Lynn Hardy, 2020, Independently Published

Everyone wants to slow down the aging process as much as possible. This book gives some easy-to-follow tips to do that.

Consider getting rid of your chemical-filled cleaning products and switch to non-toxic brands. Get a good night's sleep every night. If that is not happening, you may need to sleep in a different position or raise the head of your bed by several inches. 

Believe it or not, cholesterol is your friend. Eat more fat and protein, and eat less carbohydrates. Totally get rid of sugar and artificial sweeteners. Consider intermittent fasting. Choose healthy cooking oils, and consume bone broth.

Getting vitamins and minerals from fruits and vegetables (and sunlight) is preferred, but supplements are very acceptable. If you are so inclined, CBD oil is good to try. It doesn't contain any THC (the part that causes the "high"). Look into castor oil packs and liver flushes.

The author also explores cold therapy, epsom salt baths, getting a dog, stopping smoking, meditating, correcting your posture and ditching the sunglasses.

No one is expected to do all of these tips at once. Pick a few that you can make part of your daily routine, then pick a few more. For most people, this book is common knowledge. There will always be those for whom this book is a revelation. Yes, it is very much worth reading. 

The Traeger Grill Bible

 The Traeger Grill Bible, Steven Smoke, Independently Published, 2022

This cookbook is intended to be used with a specific brand of grill.

There is only one recipe per page, which helps greatly. This is in great contrast to other cookbooks which try to cram as many recipes on a page as possible. Each recipe includes a large color picture of the item. The picture in the book always looks better than what comes out of your grill. The recipes include: smoked brisket, smoked catfish, grilled corn with honey and butter, ground lamb kebabs and brown sugared bacon cinnamon rolls.

Trying any of these recipes is not possible, because I do not own a Traeger grill. For those who do own one, this is a good first cookbook to get familiar with its capabilities. The writer of this book has made it very easy. Yes, this is very much worth considering.

The Creator's Handbook

 The Creator's Handbook: The Art and Science of Creating Social Change, Shingai Samudzi, Nobody Times Press, 2022

This book is all about setting goals, and then making them happen. These are not personal goals, like "Get a promotion at work" or "Lose at least 10 pounds before beach season." These are bigger, social change goals, like "Increase the number of female engineers in Silicon Valley by at least 10 percent in the next 5 years."

Set up these goals the same way as with personal goals. They still have to be specific, measurable, action-oriented, reasonable and have a time limit. Next comes some visualization. Don't spend 5 minutes daydreaming that it would be great if. . . Take some time, and in your mind, go over the steps needed to get from Here to There. Figuratively speaking, you need to burn this goal, and the steps to get there, into your brain. 

How do you get other people to change their goals and their worldview, so that it aligns with yours? A possible obstacle involves having to deal with other people's emotional biases (everyone has them). They may get in the way of having people join you on the way to your goal.

When it comes to getting society to accept your goal, it's all about networks (six degrees of separation). They come in different shapes and sizes; some are very loose, while others are so tight, they are almost rock-solid. Some people are direct, or first-degree, connections (you know Person X directly). Other people are much looser connections (you know someone who knows someone who knows Person X). How do you get them to join you to work toward your goal?

This is a very thought-provoking book. It's very well done, and is not very technical. It's recommended for everyone, especially the average young person who has decided that today is the day that they start to change the world.

The Complete Anti-Inflammatory Cookbook for Beginners

 The Complete Anti-Inflammatory Cookbook for Beginners, Sarah J Candle, Independently Published, 2022

Do you suffer from chronic inflammation? Is your skin usually red and painful? Is there any way to reduce, or eliminate, the pain? This book may be able to help.

Inflammation happens when the immune system reacts to something that it really doesn't like. It could be an allergen, poison ivy, or something you ate that really does not agree with you. Occasional inflammation is acceptable; it shows that your immune system is working properly. It becomes a problem when the inflammation is chronic. That can lead to much bigger problems, like diabetes or rheumatoid arthritis. 

What can be done about it? A good general rule is to greatly increase your consumption of fresh fruits and vegetables. At the same time, you need to greatly reduce, or eliminate, your consumption of processed food, soda and fast food (the typical American diet). 

This book provides recipes for all meals in the day. Each recipe includes a color picture of the item, and the recipes are spread out, with only two recipes per page. This is in great contrast to other cookbooks that try to cram several recipes per page. Whatever your food preference, whether it is poultry, snacks or breakfast smoothies, there are recipes for it here.

This is a very good introduction to healthier eating. Even if you can improve your diet by only a couple of percent, it will help a lot. This book is very much worth reading.

Pod and Her 4 Little Texas Sisters

 Pod and Her 4 Little Texas Sisters, B.W. Evans, Independently Published, 2022

This book is about Pauline (Pod) Bruce, and Imagean (Gean), her next oldest sister. They were part of a family of five girls, living as sharecroppers in Depression-era Texas. Mom made sure that there was a lot of love in that house, which was actually a two-room shack. 

Unintentionally, Pod gave the family a way to get out of their extreme poverty; she nearly got her foot bitten off by an alligator. Dad printed lots of pictures of Pod and her foot; they sold like the opening day of a new Iphone. That gave Dad the money to open a washateria, then another and another. They were an instant sensation (the precursor to today's laundromat). They moved out of their shack into a real house.

Pod grew up with a huge love of horses. The family acquired a fast quarter horse, which she used to win a pair of big horse races, disguised as a boy. At that time, about the only legal right women had was the right to vote. When her deception was revealed, righteous indignation exploded. 

The Governor of Texas hoped to use Pod to reach women voters. She embarked on a speaking tour all over Texas, talking about women's rights and equal pay. The Governor was totally behind her, but told her to leave birth control out of her speeches. It was very illegal to give women any information about birth control at that time.

Meantime, Gean won a state-wide beauty contest and headed to Hollywood to become an actress. Her career abruptly ended, before it got started, in a really awful way.

This is an excellent biography. It is very easy to read, and is very inspirational for anyone with big dreams, but who comes from unfortunate circumstances.

Geometry of Thinking

 Geometry of Thinking: How to Find Yourself and Succeed in Business, Kane Edwards, HighRock, 2022

At work, are you stuck in an emotional rut? Do you think that there has got to be something better than this? New opportunities are always available. This book may be able to help.

Compare your talent to a guitar. Everyone has a talent for something, some people just take longer to find it than others. The guitar has sat in your closet for your entire life. One day, you take it out, and start playing. The sound is awful. Do you toss it back in your closet, and vow never to touch it again? Instead, learn to play just one string the right way. Then you can master two strings. After that, learn how to play chords, and, before you know it, you are actually playing the guitar.

It is the same when starting a small business. It is normal to want to make a million dollars in your first year. That is not going to happen. There will be setbacks and false starts. There will be days when quitting looks very tempting. Concentrate on doing one thing very well, until you can do it without thinking about it. Then add another thing to do, and another, and another. Before you know it, you are successful at getting a promotion at work or running your own small business. Perhaps you are a creative person, with plenty of ideas for small business to start. But you stink at the "business" part of running a small business. Concentrate on learning how to run a business, or hire someone to do it for you.

This book is less than 100 pages, and is very thought-provoking. It will get someone out of their emotional rut, and help them get a promotion, or a better job. It gets 4 stars.

The First Robot President

 The First Robot President, Robert Carlyle Taylor, Reflection Bay Press, 2020

This story takes place 500 years from now. Homelessness and overpopulation are beyond out of control. Earth's population is 500 billion people (that's right, billion). America's population is 500 million. America has grown to 100 states, including Canada and Mexico, Australia and New Zealand.

Thomas Jenkins is a lobbyist for the Green Party in Washington DC. One day, he decides to purchase a RoboWife (robots that are indistinguishable from humans). He names her Esmeralda, and they get married. They adopt Sarah, a human child, who grows up to receive several college degrees, and become a college professor. 

Living in northern Virginia, politics is the "family business" in the Jenkins household. After a number of years, Esmeralda runs for Congress. Her candidacy is treated as a joke, until she wins. She is put on the Small Business Committee, where she writes a large number of bills that will actually help small business.

It's presidential campaign time. The Green Party chooses Esmeralda as its Vice Presidential candidate. After a long and hard campaign, the Greens emerge victorious. Esmeralda is not Vice President for very long before she is pushed into the Presidency. Among her first Executive Orders is mandating a Birth Lottery for all federal employees. Congress is needed to expand it to all Americans. During a Cabinet meeting, disaster strikes. Esmeralda is unable to fulfill her duties as President. Those who want her out of the White House. permanently, spring into action. Can Esmeralda return to her duties in time?

This is satire; the author does a very good job with the society-building. It has things to say about present-day politics, and is very much worth reading.

Recipes: Blank Recipe Book to Create Your Own Delicious Recipes

 Recipes: Blank Recipe Book to Create Your Own Delicious Recipes, Maky Publishing, 2022 (ISBN 9798804381937)

Do you have a box of recipes from a variety of sources, including magazines, the Internet and Grandma? Are you still going to cook all of them, someday? Is the "perfect" recipe always on the bottom of the pile? Don't you wish they were more organized? This book is here to help.

Space for each recipe takes up two pages in this blank book. There is plenty of space for the ingredients and directions. There is also space for notes or substitutions, cooking time and temperature, and nutrition information. If you would rather not lose Grandma's handwriting, it is easy, and much less time-consuming, to scotch tape a recipe or two per page. That way, the recipe, and Grandma's handwriting, is still viewable.

An important part of cooking is having the right recipe, available at the right time. This book makes it easy. It is very much worth considering for cooks of any skill level.

Mindbender

 Mindbender, Avinash Naduvath, Independently Published, 2022

This mystery story starts with a woman's scream.

Pogo, a young boy, wakes up convinced that his mother has left him. Joshua, an older boy, wakes up and notices that strange things are happening in this new world. They are in a village, or hamlet, with only five buildings. Among them is a supermarket with infinitely long shelves. There is a diner that is deserted one minute, and full of customers the next minute. Another new arrival is Sarah, an older woman who suddenly realizes that her husband and daughter are missing. 

In the world's only hotel, a multi-story skyscraper, a woman's dead body has been found. Sarah is not sure if it is that of her missing daughter. Kobi, the hotel manager, does not know what to do. Along with Klaus, the supermarket owner, and Tonks, the owner of the diner, can this random group of people figure out just what is going on?

This is a really good novel. Having it told from the point of view of each of the characters certainly helps. It's not an action-packed page turner of a story (except for the dead body), so it may take some effort on the part of the reader. That effort will be well rewarded with this mystery story, mixed with a bit of the TV show "The Twilight Zone."

Sketch Book

 Sketch Book, Maky Publishing, 2022, ISBN 9798803868668

Here is a bunch of blank pages that has many uses.

It can be used by a child who is really into drawing or doodling. This book can also be used by that child to take notes in class.

A teenager can also use this book to take notes in class, or for art class. An adult entrepreneur can use it to brainstorm the next great product to change the world. A production designer can use it to turn that idea into reality. An artist can plan their next great painting or sculpture. This book can also be used to start writing The Great American Novel.

There are no childish symbols or figures on the cover, so an adult should not be worried about being seen with this book. It is very much worth considering for anything where many blank pages are needed.

Anxiety Relief Coloring Book for Adults

 Anxiety Relief Coloring Book for Adults, Maky Publishing, 2022, ISBN 9798815720947

In this fast-paced, 24/7 world, it is becoming increasingly important to find a way to unwind at the end of the day. That's what this book is all about.

This presents drawings of all sorts of animals, from birds to fish to elephants. There are many small areas to color, allowing a person to let out their creativity. It does not contain large areas to color, like in a child's coloring book. There is a black page on the reverse of each page, in case of bleed through of the colors. 

Here is a potentially better way to relax at the end of the day than with beer or TV. Adult coloring books are not as silly as they sound. It is also recommended for anyone with any sort of emotional problem with anxiety. Get out your colored pencils and start coloring.  

A Healthy Life Without Diets

 A Healthy Life Without Diets, Helen Fastrich, Independently Published, 2022

This book explores a seemingly radical concept. It is possible to lose weight, and live a healthy (or healthier) lifestyle without joining this week's Fad Diet. There are only two rules: Greatly increase your consumption of fruits and vegetables (the fresher, the better). Greatly decrease, or eliminate, your consumption of industrial processed foods, like soda, fast food and red meat.

Water is an important part of a healthy lifestyle. Drink a lot more per day than you are drinking now. The author explains exactly what happens, internally, when you are digesting food. She also explains the vitamins and minerals, and other good things, that are contained in fruits and vegetables.

Believe it or not, fat is an essential nutrient. The human body needs a certain amount of it every day. The book also explores various kinds of cooking oils, and when you should, or should not, use them. Getting the required vitamins and minerals directly from fruits and vegetables is best, but getting them from supplements is very acceptable. Eating canned or frozen vegetables is also acceptable, if fresh vegetables are not available.

Don't be concerned if you fall "off the wagon," and have a piece of cake or a whole can of soda at a party. Just get back "on the wagon" as soon as possible. If there is such a thing as a one-stop source on how to live healthier without dieting, this is it. This is highly recommended for everyone. 

Cute Animals Coloring Book for Kids

 Cute Animals Coloring Book for Kids, Maky Publishing, 2022, ISBN 9798829908065

This coloring book is intended for any young child who is interested in drawing. All sorts of animals are represented here, from cats to giraffes to elephants. This book may just spark a life-long interest in art, leading to your relative becoming a world-famous artist. This book is very much worth considering as a present for any child.

Unicorn Coloring Book

 Unicorn Coloring Book For Kids 4-8, Maky Publishing, 2022, ISBN 9798818661940

This coloring book might just spark a child's interest in drawing and doodling. It might be intended for girls, but boys can be interested in art, too. Boys can also like unicorns, just as much as girls do. When your relative, regardless of their gender, becomes a world-famous artist, you can tell your friends that it all started with this book. Yes, this is really worth buying and giving to any child. 

The Adventures of Captain Shoelace

 The Adventures of Captain Shoelace, Jon Morgan, Independently Published, 2022

This middle-grade young adult novel is about Captain Shoelace, a teenage pirate who is totally obsessed with banana cream pies. A royal wedding is happening, so Shoelace figures that he can sneak in and steal a pie or two while no one is looking. He is caught, and the King is not happy.

At that moment, the island is attacked by two other pirate fleets, led by Redbeard and Bluebeard. All three captains end up in jail; execution is looking increasingly likely. Word reaches them that a new fleet has entered the area. This one is led by an extremely mean pirate called Blackboot. He releases Shoelace from jail, because the two were classmates back in pirate school. 

Blackboot asks Shoelace if he would like to join his pirate enterprise; like Shoelace has a choice. Blackboot's fleet includes the Ultimate Weapon, that he plans to use to destroy the castle, and take over. Shoelace escapes, and tries to warn the King. Pirates are not known for being very honest, so the warning is ignored. Can Shoelace stop Blackboot's evil plan before it's too late?

This story is surprisingly good. It's got pirates and royalty, and plenty of swashbuckling action. This is very much worth reading for all young people. 

The Seventh Trumpet Has Sounded

 The Seventh Trumpet Has Sounded, Jim Burruss, Independently Published, 2020

When talking about, and studying, the Book of Revelation in the Bible, most people are understandably fixated on the End Times part; when and how the world will end. Instead of depending on someone else's interpretation, why can't you read it and come up with your own interpretation?

When studying any part of the Bible, a general understanding of the rest of the Bible is helpful. There is a chapter-by-chapter summary. Numbers are very important in the Bible, including Revelation. Sometimes, they are meant to be taken literally, and sometimes they are meant to be taken metaphorically. The number signifies unity or oneness, while the number three signifies the three parts of the Trinity. The number seven is very popular in the Bible. It expressed completeness; it is considered the most scared number to the Hebrews. The whole Book of Revelation was addressed to the seven churches in Asia (God probably had a lot more churches that that in such a vast area). The number twelve thousand signifies the number of people from each of the twelve tribes of Israel who will be saved. The book also explores subjects like when Revelation was written, the thousand-year-reign of Christ, the works of the Devil and Armageddon. 

This book is very interesting and very easy to understand. For anyone who wants a better understanding of Revelation, aside from the Last Days part, start here.

Darkness Calls: A Gray Magick Novel

 Darkness Calls: A Gray Magick Novel, Kiki Howell, Independently Published, 2022

The four O'Quinn women run a popular inn and coffee shop in a farmhouse somewhere in rural Ohio. They are well-liked by the locals, even though they are all practicing witches. In the front room of the house, Alannah meets with anyone who needs a little magickal assistance.

Life is good, until, one night, a dead body is found in that room with strange ritualistic markings carved into his chest. What is worse is that their ancestors, who are always around, have somehow been neutralized. They have been replaced by other spirits, who like to break bottles of herbs on the floor, and toss books off the shelves.

Relatives of the dead man arrive, and things go from worse to much worse. Their name is Fitzpatrick. The two families have been connected by a rivalry/curse for the past several centuries. They are totally respectful, and sympathetic, to the O'Quinn's desire to get "their" ancestors back from wherever they are. An added complication is that Kane Fitzpatrick is incredibly handsome. Do they put things back the way they were? Do their ancestors have an opinion on Alannah and Kane?

Here is some excellent, almost poetic, writing. The characters are very well done, and there is just enough witchcraft, plus romance. This is very much worth reading.

The Blue Dragon's War

 The Blue Dragon's War, Sean Newton, Exdea Ltd., 2015

First of a series, this fantasy novel takes place in and around the town of Kehlaktur. It is a decent place, inhabited mostly by minotaurs. One day, a very large blue dragon named Glaurax is found just outside the town. It says that the town will grow and thrive, like never before, under its benevolent guidance (read: slavery). The minotaurs are not interested.  

Glaurax has a hard time taking no for an answer. It leaves, and soon returns with an army of orcs to take the town by force. The battle happens at a river not far from the town; orcs and dragon one side, with the minotaurs on the other side. The minotaurs just happen to be outnumbered by ten to one. It is a fearsome battle, with high numbers of casualties on both sides. The dead bodies are thrown in the river. They are so numerous that they create a dam downstream and turn the river into a lake. Who is victorious? Who is still alive at the end?

This is an excellent story and an excellent start to a series. It's got orcs, minotaurs and sword battles; everything a fantasy lover could want. The author certainly knows how to do fantasy the right way.  

Bestseller

 Bestseller: How to Create a Perennial Bestseller on Amazon that Brings Passive Income 24/7. Albert Griesmayr, Scribando, 2021

You have written what you think is a wonderful book (let's call it "My Life in the Cosmetics Industry"). It has been professionally edited and proofread, it has been properly formatted for Amazon, and is otherwise "ready for prime time." How does it become a bestseller?

A couple of months before launch, start putting together your launch team. These are people who are willing to purchase your book and/or leave a review on launch day. Your team can consist of friends and family members, professional colleagues and social media influencers. Let's say that you get an e-mail address for a member of the Kardashian/Jenner family. Any help from them would be beyond incredible. Why should they help you? They have never before met you online. You have to give value before you get value. The book explains what that means.

Regarding advertising, you are using Google and Facebook Ads, right? You should be mentioning your book on whatever social media platforms you are on. Do you have a personal website to advertise the book? Is there a business or professional website that you can use?

What do you want from your book? Do you want a couple of hundred dollars in sales each month? Do you want to retire on the proceeds from your book? The more sales and reviews a book has, the nicer Amazon's algorithm will be to it (rate it higher - maybe to Bestseller status). 

This is a very comprehensive, and very well done, book. It goes through the whole process very clearly. This book belongs in the kindle (or bookshelf) of every would-be author.

Summer of Sci-Fi and Fantasy: Volume One

 Summer of Sci-Fi and Fantasy: Volume One, Dustin Bilyk (ed.), Authors Hand Publishing Company, 2022

This is a group of mostly new fantasy and science fiction stories.

There is a story about a murderous creature attacking a space station. There is a dystopian tale about people having happiness sucked out of them, like they were having all of their blood sucked out of them. Sometimes, a person can be hooked up permanently.

A Las Vegas casino dealer is hooked on a drug called Sueno-Z. There is a nightly "human sacrifice" into a volcano that is part of the Las Vegas Strip. It is all about strange dreams broadcast to millions of people while they are asleep. In another story, an evil necromancer has been brought back to life using unearthly methods. A first contact story revolves around two spaceships orbiting around the same planet, intentionally firing at each other. It is kind of like medieval jousting. Then, they can get together and talk about mining and trade agreements. 

The last story in the book takes place several hundred years from now, after mankind has started to spread throughout the galaxy. An asteroid destroyed most, if not all, life on Earth three centuries previously. For the past fifty years, a lone monk has taken care of a small religious shrine on the Moon. Each day, he dutifully cleans off the moondust, for any pilgrims who might wish to worship there; there are no visitors. One day, the monk receives a message from Headquarters. Abandon the shrine, and come home. What does he do?

Individually, these stories are excellent. There is a good variety of fantasy and science fiction included here. Put together, this collection is very much worth reading.

Mime Lung Music Festival

 Mime Lung Music Festival, Jeffrey A Brick, Blueberry Kale Yoga Books, 2017

Most of this book is a memoir. The author works in the health field, and the Marketplace (through the Affordable Care Act) is about to open. He has become infatuated with a female electronic music artist who goes by the name of Tokimonsta. He follows her around the country, and figures that the best way to publicize the Marketplace at her performances is to wear a t-shirt with its web address, and dress like a mime. Maybe someone will remember him.

The scene suddenly shifts to a few decades from now. People's brains still function, but their bodies are dead, or in something like suspended animation. He is in a sort of virtual reality world with a woman called MagnoliaRex. Their time together is rapidly disappearing. 

Here is a really good story about movies, science fiction, electronic music and love. It's just strange enough, without being too strange. 

Unicorn Journal and Sketchbook

 Unicorn Journal and Sketchbook, Maky Publishing, Independently Published, 2022 (ISBN 9798802596531)

This sketchbook is meant for young girls who love to write in journals, or who love to draw or doodle.

There are blank pages for drawing, and lined pages for writing in a journal. Small drawings of flowers and unicorns and smiling clouds adorn the edge of each page. This rather reduces its target audience to only young girls with an artistic or literary flair. The cover has drawings of cupcakes and ice cream cones, which certainly helps.

This sketchbook is very much worth giving to a niece or granddaughter. After she becomes a world-famous artist, you can show people this book and say that you helped her to gain inspiration. 

Sketchbook: Cute Unicorn Sketchbook

 Sketchbook: Cute Unicorn Sketchbook, Maky Publishing, Independently Published, 2022 (ISBN 9798446946587)

This sketchbook is intended for young girls to draw or doodle.

The pages inside are totally blank, so it has many other possible uses. It can be used to take notes in class, or write the first draft of the Great American Young Adult Novel. An adult artist can use it to plan their next artistic creation. An entrepreneur can use it to create the next great product that will be sold all over America. A production designer can use this book to turn that idea into reality. The very colorful cover will inspire those with an artistic or creative mind. 

This sketchbook is recommended for any situation where a large number of blank pages are needed. This one is very much worth considering. 

The Complete Mediterranean Diet Cookbook for Beginners 2022

 The Complete Mediterranean Diet Cookbook for Beginners 2022, Ellen Marino, Independently Published, 2022

The Mediterranean Diet is not just Another Diet. There are no special meals to buy, or calories to count. It is more like a lifestyle that is based on greatly increasing your consumption of fruits and vegetables (the fresher, the better) and eventually eliminating your consumption of processed foods and sugar. 

Other "good" foods include fish, chicken, red meat (monthly) and olive oil. A bit of red wine with dinner certainly won't hurt. Healthier eating has been shown to reduce, or eliminate, symptoms of chronic conditions like diabetes, high blood pressure and heart disease. The book includes a 12-week suggested menu.

The 200 recipes in this book sound delicious. They include Orange French Toast, Greek Yogurt With Nuts, Fish Fillet on Lemons, Salmon With Tomatoes, Peach Glazed Chicken Drumsticks, Chicken Breast With Tomatoes and Basil, Smoked Pork Sausage, Orange Roasted Brussels Sprouts, Veggie Mediterranean Pasta and Chocolate Brownies.

Don't try to jump into the Mediterranean Diet all at once. Try easing your way into it; first, one day a week, then two days a week, etc. This book is an excellent place to start your journey. You have nothing to lose (except extra weight). 

Italian Holidays: Funny and Yummy

 Italian Holidays: Funny and Yummy, Tony Martin, Independently Published, 2022

The author was the typical teenager: overweight, unhappy and living on chips and soda. He agrees, reluctantly, to spend a summer with his grandmother in very rural Italy.

He slowly begins to realize that he is gaining muscle and losing weight. It might have to do with the fresh vegetables and fish (right off the boat) that Grandma cooks every day. Being outside in the fresh air, whether its doing chores, or exploring the area with his new found friends, might also have something to do with it.

When he gets back to America, news that his parents are getting a divorce sends him into an emotional tailspin. He retreats back into the world of chips and soda. Samantha, a friend, suggests he re-create some of Grandma's recipes here in America. He does, and the weight disappears, again. Samantha gives the recipes to her mother, who totally changes her life. She goes from old and tired, to young and vibrant. The recipes get passed to Mom's friends, with similar results.

There are many healthy recipes in this book, along with a list of foods to eat and foods to avoid, but this is more than Another Book of Healthy Recipes. Most such books say "You can do it!" This book says "I did it, and so can you!" It is very much worth reading.

How to Start a Successful Food Truck Business

 How to Start a Successful Food Truck Business, Walter Grant and Andrew Hudson, 2022, Independently Published

You have decided to join the food truck "revolution." There is a lot to do before your first day of business.

Go to your city and state government, and find out exactly what permits and licenses are required. If you are just starting out, it's OK to lease a truck. When you get established, consider buying a used, or new, truck. Keep current with the vehicle maintenance. All of your paperwork should be in one place that is easily accessible. Retrofit your truck with required grills, refrigerators and prep space. There will be an inspection by the local health department.

What sort of food will you be serving? Why should people go to your fried chicken truck, if there are already ten other such trucks in your area. Will you be doing food prep ahead of time, even if it just peeling and chopping vegetables? Find a commissary or restaurant kitchen to use. The health department will have a hard time approving your home kitchen.

Where will you park your truck? Go back to your local government and see if there are any restrictions, or areas that are off limits. Social media is a requirement, so that people know who you are, and where you are.

Like any other small business, success is not assured, but it is possible. This book does an excellent job of exploring everything to consider. It is very much worth reading.

Globalistas

 Globalistas: Insights from the Frequent Travels of Airline Crews and Digital Nomads, Aiman Kabli, Independently Published, 2020

Do you have a bad case of wanderlust? Is foreign travel on your bucket list? This book may be able to help.

The first rule of foreign travel might be: Be Flexible. Sometimes, things will not go the way you want them to go. It's totally acceptable to have an itinerary, but leave free time to just wander, and see what's around the corner. You may find the local equivalent of a mom and pop diner. Keeping cleanliness and sanitation and personal safety in the back of your mind is always a good idea. If you are new to foreign travel, staying in a big hotel is also very acceptable. With more experience, consider the local equivalent of a bed and breakfast, or even an Airbnb. No one expects that your first foreign trip should be a six-month backpacking trip around Europe. It's important to keep an open mind, and an open stomach, especially when the local food looks disgusting, and the local liquor tastes like kerosene.

There are many reasons for foreign travel: military service, seeing the world, being a travel blogger or being a "digital nomad" (someone who is able to work, on their laptop, anywhere there is an internet connection). Whatever your reason, reading this book is an excellent place to start. It is full of tips from people who have "been there and done that," and it may just provide the nudge to get you on an airplane going to another country.  

Sketchbook: Cute Unicorn Sketchbook/Notebook

  Sketchbook: Cute Unicorn Sketchbook, Maky Publishing, Independently Published, 2022 (ISBN 9798437004449)

This is a blank sketchbook, intended for young girls to draw or doodle (note the unicorn on the cover).

This book is also good for adults. It can be used to take notes in class, or to write the first draft of the Great American Young Adult Novel. An artist or sculptor can use it to plan the next Great Artistic Creation. Maybe adolescent doodling or journaling will lead to a career as an artist or writer. An entrepreneur can brainstorm the next great product that will change the world, and a production designer can use it to turn that idea into reality.  

This may be marketed for young girls, but it is good anytime a large number of blank pages are needed. This is well worth the money.

Sketchbook: Cute Unicorn Sketchbook

 Sketchbook: Cute Unicorn Sketchbook, Maky Publishing, Independently Published, 2022 (ISBN 9798447764326)

This is a blank sketchbook, intended for young girls to draw or doodle. The multi-colored unicorn on the cover makes the intended audience self-evident.

Adults can also use this book. An artist or sculptor can use it to plan their next artistic creation. An entrepreneur can brainstorm the next great product that will revolutionize the world, and a production designer can use it to turn that idea into reality. It can also be used to take notes in class, or to write the first draft of the Great American Young Adult Novel (ignore the unicorn on the cover). 

Even though this is intended for young girls, it is good for any occasion where a large number of blank pages are needed. This is well worth checking out. 

The Prism Affect

 The Prism Affect, J Wint, Independently Published, 2021

Set a couple of hundred years from now, this novel is about a young man named Jet Stroud. He is an orphan, and is afflicted with ephebus mortem. It is a rare condition, characterized by glowing eyes. Legend says that death before your twenty-fourth birthday is inevitable. 

Jet is accepted into the prestigious Skylight University, orbiting in Earth's atmosphere. He bands together with other students with the same condition, and they start to investigate. Jet starts hearing voices in his head, shadows follow them and there are holographic prophecies that only they can see. A couple of previous condition died from the same condition. It's more like they just disappeared; their bodies were never found. Are they really dead? Is this an actual conspiracy involving some members of the faculty? Can Jet find the answer before he becomes another "victim" of ephebus mortem?

This novel is surprisingly good. It is very well written, and has elements of horror, dystopian science fiction and conspiracy/suspense. It may be marketed as a Young Adult novel, but adults will also like it.

The Eve Code

 The Eve Code: Empowering Women to Become Their Own Chief Empowerment Officer, Mariett Ramm, Independently Published, 2022

Many books have been written about various aspects of female empowerment. This one is different.

It goes into detail about exactly what happens, biologically, during a woman's menstrual cycle (guys, if your wife/girlfriend starts acting "weird" at the same time each month, there is a very good reason for it). The book looks at female spirituality, and the four seasons of a woman's life (maiden, mother, warrior and crone). It talks about emotions and hormones. No, there is nothing wrong with you if your emotions are closer to the surface than in most people. Emotions like fear, anxiety and guilt are discussed. Occasional fear and stress is normal, and might actually be good for you. Chronic fear and stress is not normal.

The book ends by describing how any woman can become her own Chief Empowerment Officer. This is a first-rate, bordering on amazing, book. Obviously, it is recommended for all women. Guys, if you honestly want to understand what women are like on the inside, here is an excellent place to start. 

Memoirs of a Buddhist in Los Angeles

 Memoirs of a Buddhist in Los Angeles: Synchronicity is No Coincidence, Deborah Favorite, Independently Published, 2022

The author is your average person trudging through life, trying to deal with a very difficult childhood. In her mid-20's, she tries Buddhism (very reluctantly). She is given a chanting mantra to use anytime, and, for her, it seems to work.

The synchronicities seem to come to her, fast and furious. If she needs a new apartment, a For Rent sign suddenly appears (this is in modern-day Los Angeles). If she finds herself suddenly unemployed (she works as a legal secretary), a nearby attorney or law firm just happens to have a vacancy. When a family member is in the hospital, synchronicities arise just before the doctor is about to do something not intelligent and life-threatening. It's not all good; along the way, there are 5 failed marriages. The author is not suggesting that everyone should become a Buddhist, or that chanting this phrase will cause the Universe to shower you with good things.

These synchronicities can't all be real, can they? This is an excellent, bordering on wonderful, piece of writing. It is incredibly easy to read, and is highly recommended.

Machine Learning Simplified

 Machine Learning Simplified: A Gentle Introduction to Supervised Learning, Andrew Wolf, 2022

In this world of increasing influence of artificial intelligence (AI), teaching computers how to learn is increasingly important. This book attempts a gentle introduction to the subject

The first thing to consider is the quality of your data. Is it in the right standard of measurement (for instance, centimeters vs. inches)? Are there any outliers or other extraneous bits of data that can be deleted? Once the data is "squeaky clean," what sort of model will the data go into? Will usable data come out the other end? After the data comes out, evaluate it and make sure that it is usable. If the answer is No, consider changing the model, and repeat.

This is where calculus starts to rear its ugly head. The author then gets into gradient descent algorithms, basis expansion, choosing regularization strength, bias-variance decomposition and leave-one-out cross validation. 

This book works really well as an introduction to machine learning. It also works as a refresher course for those who already in the field. Yes, it's worth reading, even if you take it just one chapter at a time.  

The Fabulous Four

 The Fabulous Four, Bunmi Oyinsan, Nurturing Minds Academy, 2021

Set in present-day Lagos, Nigeria, this young adult novel is about four young people who have gotten back together after having lived apart for the past several years. With parental approval, Rasaki, the family's driver, is asked to drive them to the local swimming pool, for a day of swimming. They never reach the pool.

Instead, Rasaki, takes them in the other direction, to a rural gas station, where he picks up another man, who is carrying a gun. The children are being kidnapped. They are to be taken across the border to be sold as domestic servants in a neighboring country (modern-day slavery).

Meantime, the parents know that something is very wrong, so they start their own search, and go to the police. The wheels of justice may move slowly, but they do move. The scene shifts to an isolated hospital. The criminal mastermind tries to convince the local doctor that he is the children's father, and they are just being mischievous (they are actually scared). Who does the doctor believe?

This is a really good story. For a glimpse into a different part of the world, this is very much worth reading. 

Football Playbook

 Football Playbook, Maky Publishing, 2022, Independently Published

An important part of football, at any level, is diagramming plays. This is so every player knows exactly what to do at any given moment. This book is here to help.

It contains over 100 blank field diagrams with space for notes. It allows plays to be drawn up, drills to be created and scouting reports to be written. There is plenty of space for maximum details for each play.

This book does a very good job of putting everything in one place. The picture on the front cover makes the subject of the book very obvious. It is very much worth checking out.

Not Today

 Not Today, David E Feldman, EFace Media, 2021

Beach City is a beautiful town on the East Coast that has quite a checkered history. Sometime in the past, the police commissioner murdered the mayor.

Dora Ellison is happy to be a sanitation engineer (garbage collector) until her roommate, police Lt. "Franny" Hart is killed under mysterious circumstances. Dora starts getting anonymous phone calls asking her to investigate "a murder that wasn't a murder."

Dora finds a wide streak of corruption in Beach City. If a person goes along with the status quo, everything is fine. If a person complains, for instance, about illegal wastewater dumping, they are suddenly arrested in trumped-up charges, or their business is suddenly shut down by the Health Department. Who is behind the corruption? Is it the mayor, or his chief of staff? Does Dora find out the truth?

This is a gem of a story, that is first in a series. It has a strong female character who is not the usual ex-cop trying to make it as a private investigator. It's a present-day tale with a unique reason for the corruption, and is very much recommended.

Heroes and Tyrants

 Heroes and Tyrants, David Green, Independently Published, 2022

Part one of a series, this fantasy novel takes place in a world at war.

It's a land dealing with a secret religion called the Church of the One True God. The word "secret" is emphasized because there are spies everywhere. The penalty for membership, or just being swept up in a worship service is immediate banishment or death. There are a pair of brothers who are scheming against each other to be heir to the throne. 

This book follows a few characters who fates are connected, though they don't yet know it. This is an epic fantasy that does  not skimp on the "epic" part. The characters, and, especially, the society building, are very well done. This is a first-rate start to a series.

Einstein in the Attic

 Einstein in the Attic, Dana Dargos and Said Al Bisri, Solstice Publishing, 2022

Adam Reemi is a professor of physics at Berkeley. As far as teaching is concerned, The Thrill Is Gone. His marriage to Evie is in trouble, and his estranged father died recently. They became estranged when Adam's mother died. The family also fled war-torn Lebanon, and settled in America.

Adam's immediate boss makes it very clear: Shape Up, Now, or Get Fired. Around this time, Adam's friend, Muntz, builds a real time machine. They decide to bring four of the greatest minds in history together to try to answer the question: Science v. God? Is evolution nothing but luck and blind chance?

So, Albert Einstein, Soren Kierkegaard, Baruch Spinoza and Sir Isaac Newton are brought to the 21st century. While the group is enjoying the offerings at Starbucks, Adam runs into Nelson, an arrogant little you-know-what who has the power to professionally destroy Adam. Nelson seems to have made it his mission in life to do just that. Unfortunately, Adam makes it very easy for Nelson. 

The climax comes at a public debate at Berkeley on evolution v. intelligent design. Is Adam able to get his act together/ Who wins the debate?

This is an excellent book. It may take a while to get going, but it is worth the time. The book does not try to throw evolution in the trash. Evolution may be the best explanation for how mankind got to where it is, But there are still holes and inconsistencies in it. Perhaps mankind \got a "push" from an outside source, here and there. This is very much worth reading.

IPhone 13 Seniors Guide

 IPhone 13 Seniors Guide, Henry Sanders, Independently Published, 2022

You are a senior citizen whose children, and grandchildren, have been regaling you with tales of how wonderful the Iphone 13 really is. They have urged you to get one, so you can be part of the cutting edge. Maybe you have an older Iphone. You have just come home from the Apple Store with a new Iphone 13. Now, what do you do?

This book takes the reader step-by-step, through the whole process. If you are updating an older Iphone, this book tells you how to do it. It talks about setting up Face ID and Apple Pay. If you have an Apple Watch, it tells you how to pair them together.

If your Iphone is not activating, the book gives you suggestions to try before you march back to the Apple Store. It also looks at common Iphone issues, like charging problems, overheating problems, battery life and bluetooth problems. The book also talks about moving from Android to Iphone.

Downloading apps is included, along with creating a Family Sharing Account and everything you ever wanted to know about the Iphone 13 camera.

The instructions feel plausible and accurate (I do not own an Iphone of any kind). For anyone looking for a painless introduction to the Iphone 13, here is a very good place to start (4.5 stars).

My Recipes

 My Recipes: Blank Recipe Book to Create Your Own Delicious Recipes, Maky Publishing, Independently Published, 2022 (ISBN 9798426595965)

Do you have a box full of recipes from a myriad of sources? Is the "perfect" recipe always on the bottom? Is it finally time to organize them? This book may be able to help.

On each page, this blank book provides plenty of space for ingredients and directions. There is space for prep time and cook time, for the baking temperature, the number of servings and the nutrition value. There is also space for the difficulty and the overall rating. If all that writing does not appeal to you, scotch tape a recipe or two to each page. They will still be just as accessible, and you can keep Great-Grandma's handwriting.

This book does a fine job of putting all your recipes in one piece. The best recipes are those that are accessible. This book is very much worth the money.

The Girl With the Transparent Skin

 The Girl With the Transparent Skin, Elena Zhuravleva, Independently Published, 2019

Maria is a young woman who has found a disgusting, almost pornographic, video with her face online. Is she about to be blackmailed? Are other such videos coming in the future?

The IP address is traced to a monastery in (pre-invasion) Kiev, her hometown. She became an orphan when her parents died in an auto accident. She spent some time in an orphanage, and has lived abroad for the past several years.

She finds very questionable financial dealings between the monastery and a local Foundation. Video confessions of girls who have been raped are recorded and put on DVD. Those disks are sent to women all over Europe to "shock" them into giving birth (Really?) The intention is to start to reverse Europe's population decline.

There is a scandal-plagued construction project (the monastery is involved). A multi-story building is to be built over an underground lake (that no one knows about) right on the Dnieper river. Maria is caught in a landslide. Before she is rescued, she starts hallucinating. Was it a random event, or something more sinister. There is also a bit of witchcraft, and pre-Christian gods.

Here is a really good piece of storytelling. The fact that it is set in present-day Kiev (or Kyiv) makes it that much better. It is not a very easy novel to read; it will require some effort on the part of the reader. Here is a first-rate story. 

Recipe Book

 Recipe Book: Blank Notebook to Write In Your Favorite Recipes, Maky Publishing, Independently Published, 2022 (ISBN 9798432690111)

Do you have a box full of recipes from Grandma, cut out from magazines or printed off the Internet? Are you always looking for that "perfect" recipe, which is always at the bottom of the pile? Don't you wish they were organized? This book is here to help.

On each blank page, it provides space for the ingredients and directions. There is also space to write the prep time and cook time, the title, the temperature and rating, and, most importantly, the nutrition content. If you don't want to do all that writing, then consider scotch taping a recipe or two to each page. They will still be just as accessible, and you won't lose Grandma's handwriting.

How can use a recipe if it is not accessible? This book does a very good job of putting all your recipes in one place. It is very much worth the money.

Our School Gardens

 Our School Gardens, Abel Junior Tutagalevao, CulturalHubb, 2021

This book, intended for children, has lots of pictures showing how to use a community garden at your local school.

There are pictures of young children, and older children, getting the soil ready for planting. Then comes planting the seeds or plants. After that comes weeding and watering the plants. Last, but not least, is the good part: harvesting and eating the vegetables right out of the ground. 

What can be done with all those fruits and vegetables? The students can bring them home, or they can be given to their teachers. They can also be donated to the local soup kitchen or food pantry. It's a win for everyone.

Does your school have some sort of garden that students can use? If not, why not? Maybe this book will provide the inspiration to start one. It is very much worth checking out.

Have You Seen Baby Pigeon?

 Have You Seen Baby Pigeon?, Hanna Kowalewska, Independently Published, 2022

Sophia is an average little girl living in an urban apartment with her grandmother. Sophia loves to draw, but gets more unsatisfied with what shows up on the paper. One day, her grandmother suggests building a bird feeder. They build one, and a couple of pigeons take up residence.

A nest is built, soon followed by a couple of eggs. Some time later, there are a pair of chicks in the nest. Sophia is overjoyed, and has all the inspiration she needs to draw them on paper. One day, the parents leave, and don't return. Sophia takes it upon herself to take care of the baby birds, feeding them and helping them to fly. 

This is a very heartwarming story, intended for little children. It's a good tale for parents to read to their children, and talk about afterwards. It is a gem of a story.

Ethosism: Self-Enslavement Abolitionist Manifesto

 Ethosism: Self-Enslavement Abolitionist Manifesto, Jo M. Sekimonyo, Resource Publications, 2020

For many years, communism and capitalism have brought misery to untold millions of people all over the world. That is, except for the rich who get much richer, while everyone else gets poorer. This book asserts that even socialism is just another method of enslaving people through capitalism. Is there an alternative?

The author calls it Ethosism. In the present day, more people than ever have the chance to own their own means of engagement or participation in an enterprise. In effect, people can create their own job or career. Therefore, the "isms," communism, socialism and capitalism are much less important than they have been in the past.

This is not "Political Philosophy for Beginners". This book will require some mental effort on the part of the reader. Don't try to understand this entire book in one sitting. Take it one chapter at a time, or even one section (they are only a couple of pages long) at a time. This book is very much worth the time.

Sketchbook: Cute Unicorn Large Sketchbook/Notebook for Girls

 Sketchbook: Cute Unicorn Large Sketchbook/Notebook for Girls, Maky Publishing, Independently Published, 2022

This blank sketchbook is intended for young girls to draw, or doodle, or start writing what will one day become the Great American Young Adult Novel.

Adults can also use this book, too. A fashion designer can start to create next year's fashion line. An entrepreneur can use it to brainstorm the next Great Product. An artist can use it to plan their next sculpture, whether from stone or metal. A production designer can start to turn an entrepreneur's product idea into reality. A video director can use it to storyboard the next video.

For anyone who needs large amounts of blank paper, getting this book is a very good idea. Maybe the unicorns on the cover will help stimulate some creativity.

Sketchbook: Cute Unicorn Sketchbook

 Sketchbook: Cute Unicorn Sketchbook, Maky Publishing, Independently Published, 2022

This blank sketchbook is intended for young girls to doodle, or draw, or whatever (notice the unicorn on the cover).

This book is not just for young girls. An artist can use it to plan their next great artistic creation. A production designer can use it to bring an entrepreneur's product idea to life. An entrepreneur can brainstorm the next Great Product that will eventually create America's next billionaire. The same girl using this book for drawing or doodling can use it to take notes in class or start writing the next Great American Young Adult Novel.

This book is recommended for kids and adults, for any purpose where large amounts of blank paper are needed. This book is worth the money; just ignore the unicorn on the cover (if necessary).

Sketchbook: Cute Unicorn Large Sketchbook

 Sketchbook: Cute Unicorn Large Sketchbook, Maky Publishing, Independently Published, 2022

This blank sketchbook is intended for young girls to draw, or doodle, or whatever (because of the unicorns on the cover). 

Adults can also use this book, too. An entrepreneur can use it to brainstorm the next Great Product that will revolutionize the world. A production designer can use it to turn an entrepreneur's product idea into reality. An artist can use it to plan their next great artistic creation. The same young girls using this book for drawing or doodling can also use it to take notes in class, or practice their creative writing.

This book can be used for almost anything where large amounts of blank paper are needed. For those who are not young girls, just ignore the unicorns on the cover, and use this book. It is very much worth the time. 

God and Quantum Physics

 God and Quantum Physics, C. Allan Boyles, Wheatmark Publishing, 2021

This book looks at possible connections between science and conceptions of God.

In the Introduction, the author states that he is not trying to prove, or disprove, the existence of God. The world's major religions, including Christianity, say that God is not corporeal, but is spiritual energy. According to quantum physics, the universe is not empty, but is full of energy that has creativity and consciousness. This energy can interact with human consciousness and is responsible for the Big Bang. That is what this non-mathematical book is all about. 

Take your time with this book; there is no need to understand all of quantum physics in one reading. Go one chapter at a time. It's a very interesting book (I understood about half of it) that will give your brain quite a workout. Yes, it's worth reading.

Winners' Guide to Essential ISEE/SSAT (Lower) Math Grade 4-5

 Winners' Guide to Essential ISEE/SSAT (Lower) Math Grade 4-5, A Anderson, Independently Published, 2019

For any student in Grades 4-5 who is about to take the ISEE/SSAT test, this book attempts to help by teaching the math portion, starting with the basics.

The topics covered in this book range from place values to geometry and statistics. Along the way, the student will learn how to round off numbers, arithmetic with decimal numbers, square and cube numbers, multiplying and dividing fractions, quadrilaterals, data organization and pie charts. For each concept, there are several pages of examples, along with review questions at the end of the section. 

This book does a very good job of taking the student through each concept, step-by-step. It is very much worth considering for your test preparation. 

The Cherokee Secret

 The Cherokee Secret: Legend of the Corazon del Rey, Edward Hendry, EE Books, 2021

This is a modern-day suspense tale about a thousand-year-old prophecy.

The gravestone of an heir to the 1500's Spanish throne has been found in . . . North Carolina. That is enough of an "Oh My God" by itself, but what was he doing there? He was searching for the Corazon del Rey, a star-shaped stone of great power that is said to be Not Of This Earth. The bearer of the stone has the ability to travel through time. The bearer also has the right to assume the Spanish throne, pushing out the present occupant. A secret office inside the Spanish monarchy is Very Interested. They want a chance to impose a conservative, ultra-religious regime, getting rid of all that liberal socialism.

Meantime, James "Mack" MacNaughton grew up in a very rural part of North Carolina. Three times in his life he was about to die, and he was saved by a woman who suddenly appeared to him and basically said "It's not your time." He has been given the task of finding an Indian named Bill Walkingstick, who will tell him a story that will shock him (there is a lot that Mack has not yet been told about what's going on). The area around the Appalachian Trail is home to lots of marijuana plants, grown right on federal land. In his travels through North Carolina, Mack also finds a solid-gold, jewel-encrusted cross, which happens to be part of the Spanish Crown Jewels. Is the Corazon del Rey ever found? Who gets to it first? Who is still alive at the end?

There are a lot of moving parts to this story, but the author does a very good job at keeping them all moving. It's got suspense and violence, and it's got a bit of ancient history and conspiracy. This novel is very much worth reading.

Daddy Issues

 Daddy Issues, Camisha Broussard, Camley Publishing, 2022

This is one person's memoir about her difficult relationship with her father.

Like many little girls, the author very much wanted her daddy around, to help her grow up and be her protector. When he was there, which was not all the time, he at least tried to be a father. As the years went on, and the appearances became less frequent, he became more interested in alcohol than in his daughter.

Throughout the book, set in Chicago, the author looks at the good parts of the man he was, rather than being upset that he wasn't the type of father that she wanted.

The author had both grandmothers, and several aunts, living within a couple of blocks of her. They had very strong opinions about things like colorism (light-skinned vs. dark-skinned black men). A couple of them also really liked their liquor.

This book is really good. It starts with the author comparing the father/daughter relationship to a male and female ballet dancer on stage at the same time. The quality of the writing does not drop from there at all. Here is a gem of a story.

SSAT & ISEE Vocabulary III

 SSAT & ISEE Vocabulary III, J Stone, Independently Published, 2022

This book attempts to teach vocabulary to students taking the Middle/Lower Level of the SSAT/ISEE test.

For each vocabulary word (there is one per page), there is the pronunciation and the type of word it is (noun, verb, adjective). There is a short definition of the word, and a couple of sentences using the word. Next are several synonyms and antonyms for each word. Most of the page is occupied with a silly cartoon illustrating a rhyme for each word. In the back of the book are review exercises with answers included. The book also has some tips to make memorizing each word easier.

This book does an excellent job at painlessly teaching elementary school vocabulary. It is recommended for all students taking the SSAT/ISEE test. It is also recommended for any student who needs extra help with vocabulary.

SSAT/ISEE (Lower/Middle) Vocabulary

 SSAT/ISEE (Lower/Middle) Vocabulary: 1500 Words Testing Synonyms/Antonyms/Homophones /Idioms/Blanks, J. Christine, 2019, Independently Published

This book attempts to teach vocabulary to younger students preparing for the SSAT/ISEE test.

It does this in a variety of ways. There are 42 separate tests, with 34 words each. The tests should be done in 10 minutes. Do not try to do the whole book in one day; just do 1 or 2 tests per day.

Each test consists of sections on synonyms, antonyms, fill in the blanks, choose the word that doesn't belong, idioms or missing letters. The sections are short, so there is no chance of the student being overwhelmed by vocabulary.

This book does an excellent job of teaching vocabulary as painlessly as possible. It is recommended, not just for students taking the SSAT/ISEE test, but for any student who needs a vocabulary refresher course. 

Wullie The Mahaar Gome: Book 2: Twilight Cave

 Wullie the Mahaar Gome: Book 2: Twilight Cave, David Kennedy McCulloch, Blue Forge Press, 2017

Part 2 of a series, this book is about seventh-graders Finnley McDougall and Hadley Kobayashi. Their class is able to go on a trip to Spain, along with Finn's parents. They stay at a hacienda run by a distinguished older gentleman named Baltazar Mendoza, who takes a special interest in Finn.

The two young people find an underground city full of all types of gomes, rock creatures like Wullie, a rude, bad-tempered Scottish gome who is friends with Finn and Hadley. Finn disappears in the caves. A diligent search is undertaken, but it is assumed that he has fallen into a crevice somewhere, and will never be found. 

He has actually been kidnapped by the "bad" gomes, and a horrible thing is about to happen to him. It is half done, and the story moves to Scotland, where the other half is scheduled to happen. Can Finn be saved before he dies in a particularly awful way?

This book reaches the level of being a Wonderful piece of writing. The average young person may look at this book's length, almost 600 pages, and say "No thanks." Do not be concerned. The characters, the storytelling and the weird parts are all very compelling. This is highly recommended for young people and adults.

Embracing God in the Right Perspective With the Right Foundation of Faith in Him

Embracing God in the Right Perspective With the Right Foundation of Faith in Him, Chris Tham, Independently Published, 2020 

This Book is intended to remind mankind that God's love for us is eternal. It is a good step towards salvation, and finding one's place in the world. The book does not just include many Bible excerpts, but expands on them to help them be understood by the average person. A Man consists of three parts: spirit, soul and body (flesh). Put the spirit first and there is enlightenment in one's heart and mind. When one satisfies the gratifications of the flesh, the person is in trouble.

I don't know if I would call it my favorite chapter, but I enjoyed chapter 13. When life gets really hard, like during these Days of COVID, it can be hard to remember that God Loves You All The time, especially for those who have lost a loved one to the disease.   

The old saying goes: "When the student is ready, the teacher appears." I must not be "ready" because I had a very hard time "getting" this book. I do not mean to suggest that this is a bad book, because it isn't. For anyone who is looking for a closer relationship with God, or who just needs a spiritual "jumpstart", this book is truly amazing and enlightening, and well worth reading. (4 to 4 1/2 stars).

Essential Life Skills for Teens

 Essential Life Skills for Teens, David Skiddy, Independently Published, 2022

This book presents some ideas and tips to help teens navigate this hyper-fast world.

There will be days when life totally stinks, when you feel overwhelmed with problems. It could range from getting a bad mark on a test, to breaking up with your significant other. There is no way to change the actual event, but you can change your reaction to it. The book gives details.

Have you ever tried setting personal goals for yourself, and staying committed to that goal until it is accomplished? It can't be a vague "I want to. . . " It must be specific, and measurable, and optimistic and have a time limit. It also needs to be written down and posted where you will see it, every day. You must also commit to doing at least one goal-oriented thing, every day.

The book also talks about time management. Some tasks are urgent and important, like studying for a test at school. Other tasks are not urgent or important, like hanging out with your friends. Concentrate on the urgent and important tasks first, and leave the others for later.

A big subject for teens is financial literacy. The book gives some ideas for making extra money, like blogging, dog walking or lawn mowing/snow shoveling. To begin to control your spending, write down every expenditure. Perhaps some of them can be eliminated; you might be very surprised. The author also talks about saving money, even if it is only one or two percent per week. There is also a chapter about staying safe online.

This is a gem of a book. It is very easy to understand, and is recommended for all teens, younger and older. For some, this book might be common knowledge, but the tips in here still bear repeating. This easily gets 5 stars.

Wullie the Mahaar Gome: Book 1: Blackhope Scar

 Wullie the Mahaar Gome: Book 1: Blackhope Scar, David Kennedy Mcculloch, Blue Forge Press, 2018

First of a series, this novel is about Finn McDougall, your average schoolboy in Seattle. His life totally changes when Great Uncle Hugh gives him a gome (not a gnome). It's a rude, bad-tempered Scottish rock creature called Wullie, who has lived for hundreds of years.

Finn, and Hadley Kobayashi, his next door neighbor, are drawn into a plot involving rusting barges on Seattle's waterfront, a snobby French woman, abandoned coalmines and flooded quarries in Scotland, an abandoned Scottish military base, bullies, gangsters and weird Scottish food. Can a pair of kids, Great Uncle Hugh and a rock creature who likes to eat metal, stop something really awful from happening in the city of Edinburgh?

Start with "Excellent" and go from there; that's how good this book is. The writing and imagery are very well done. It has plenty of action, and reaches the level of Amazing. It may be intended as a Young Adult book, but adults will also love it. This deserves more than 5 stars.  

Software Projects for Business People

 Software Projects for Business People, Jonathan P Crosby, Independently Published, 2018

You have just been named to a team tasked with creating a new software package, from scratch. Where do you even start?

Planning is essential before any code is written. Who is the intended recipient? Is it for internal use only, or will it be sold to the public? Constant communication between the corporate side and the IT side is also essential. Imposing an arbitrary deadline on the IT Department to have the software finished will not help.

The author uses the metaphor of building a house to make the whole process easier to understand for non-IT types. While in the planning stage, changes are acceptable (they are practically expected). When construction is half done, changes will cost a lot of time and money. It's tempting to want the software equivalent of a mansion, but it's a bad idea. Instead of having software that does everything but walk and talk by itself, and is full of bugs, what's wrong with having a much more basic piece of software that does only a few things, and has a lot fewer bugs?

Speaking of bugs, quality control is a requirement. Each finished chunk of software must be tested to make sure that it works with every other chunk of software. For example, this is a piece of HR software. Give it to your HR department for a test drive. Have IT people sit and watch how the software is used. Make note of, and fix, anything that doesn't work, or could be done better.

Corporate IT departments have constantly been accused of having their own language, incomprehensible to the rest of us. This book goes a long way toward bringing Corporate and IT closer together. It is very much worth reading for anyone in business, regardless of which side you are on.

Focal Point

 Focal Point, Brian Tracy, American Management Association, 2002, ISBN 0814471293

This book presents a method to achieve all of your personal and professional goals.

In business, it has been said that 80 percent of your revenue comes from 20 percent of your customers (or daily work tasks). Find your 20 percent and concentrate on them. Delegate to others, outsource or eliminate everything else. Everyone has work tasks that are urgent and important. Others are not urgent and not important. There are a lot of tasks that are somewhere in the middle. Concentrate on the urgent and important tasks. Eliminate the not urgent and not important tasks. Delegate or outsource all those tasks that are in the middle.

Imagine your perfect life, whether it involves your career, family, health or financial situation. How do you get from here to there? You are the only one who can change your life. You need to take a deep breath, focus on "it," whatever it is, and resolve to do at least one thing to get you closer to it, every day.

Even if you don't reach the level of "perfect," even if your situation improves by only a few percent, this book will have done its job. It is very easy to understand, and is highly recommended for people from all walks of life.