Stop Stopping Yourself

 Stop Stopping Yourself: How to Stop Procrastination, Get More Done and Achieve Goals That Could Change Your Life, Mario Benci, Independently Published, 2021

Are you constantly missing deadlines and failing to get things done? So did Steve Jobs and Nelson Mandela. This book explores how to stop procrastinating; everyone has been there at one time or another.

The author looks at the many causes of procrastination. Among them are: fear of failure, lack of focus, perfectionism, laziness, self-image and unclear goals. For instance, a vague goal like "I want to get healthy" will not do any good at all. How will you know if you have achieved it? Change it to something more specific, like "I want to lose at least 10 pounds before summer beach season." Procrastination is not biological or genetic; you were not "born that way." It's a mindset that can be changed, if you have the motivation to do it.

This short book is full of information. It is recommended for everyone; we all have experienced procrastination at some point in our lives. Here is a first-rate piece of writing.

The Last Turn

 The Last Turn, Elena Zhuravleva, Independently Published, 2021

This novel is about a young computer hacker. He has created an app that allows the authorities to track down criminals and terrorists while their crimes are still in the planning stages. A person would assume that the police and military would be very interested. Their response is "No thanks." However, other people are very interested. Crime is very profitable, so they start hunting him. A local newspaper reporter gets involved. She learns, to her dismay, that her own newspaper is involved in a secret online auction, sponsored by a terrorist group. The "grand prize" is exclusive media access to the next terrorist attack.

A couple of short stories are included in this book. In one, a giant blue jellyfish, that can turn into a human, is looking for love. In the other, man's destruction of the environment has gone too far. Therefore, the insects of this world stage a counter-attack.

These are some very interesting stories. The novel has a very intricate plot. It is only a matter of time until someone creates such an app. This will certainly keep the reader interested.

Old Soldiers Never Die

 Old Soldiers Never Die, Dargan Ware, Independently Published, 2021

Set in the first half of the 20th century, this novel is the story of Eamonn O'Connor.

Growing up in a tiny village in Ireland, he was among a group of Irish young men who joined the German army during World War I. Their desire was not to fight for Germany, but to fight against Britain (Irish nationalism was very strong at this time). After being shuttled all over Germany, they eventually found themselves as military police in occupied Lithuania. Eamonn is severely injured, losing part of his left foot, and is awarded the Iron Cross medal for bravery.

Between the wars, and after World War II, returns to home in Ireland, and the love of his life in Germany, brought mostly heartache. But, he was able to build quite a life for himself on two continents.

This is a totally engrossing story of life, love and the 20th century. It's got great characters, and lots of good writing. This is a gem of a story.

Guided Ignatian Contemplation

 Guided Ignatian Contemplation: Meditations on the Gospels to Come Closer to the Heart of Jesus, Lawrence Keller, Independently Published, 2021

This is a group of meditations based on events during the earthly ministry of Jesus.

Many of the major events while He was here are included in this book. Jesus is baptized by John the Baptist. Jesus heals a leper. He heals Bartimaeus, a blind man, on the road to Jericho. Jesus calms the storm, and multiplies the loaves and fishes. He is transfigured, and is anointed before His death. Included are readings from the Old and New Testament, to help the reader better contemplate each event.

Personally, the best part of this book is that each event becomes a short story, instead of just a Bible reading. This makes it much easier for the reader to understand. For anyone who wants a closer relationship with God, or just wants a better understanding of some important Bible events, here is the place to start. It is very much worth reading.

The Charisma Factor

 The Charisma Factor: Unlock the Secrets of Magnetic Charm and Personal Influence in Your Life, Leesa Rowland, Hatherleigh Press, 2021

Are some people born with charisma, and the rest of us are, permanently, out of luck? Is it necessary to be rich and famous before a person can be considered charismatic? According to this book, the answer to these questions is No.

What makes a person charismatic? What makes a person be one of those who lights up a room? Among the needed elements are: self-confidence, paying attention to what the other person is saying, being a good listener, communicating effectively, and looking the other person in the eye. But, don't stare at them, or you will look like a psychopath.

Is it possible to be charismatic at the office? Be able to troubleshoot all sorts of problems. Keep long-term goals in mind. Be confident enough to take risks when necessary. Work harmoniously with others. Be energetic; people will notice. Be able to think outside the box. Last, but not least, lead from the front.

Is physical attractiveness required to be charismatic? Consider Abraham Lincoln and Mahatma Gandhi; both men had plenty of charisma, but neither could be considered handsome. Charisma is a muscle. It will take time for changes to be seen; it becomes easier with practice. The book gives details about strengthening your charisma muscle; it starts with getting out of your comfort zone.

This is a gem of a book. Even if a person can't do all the tips in this book, getting closer to the state of Charisma is a very good thing. This is easy to read, and is very much worth reading.

The Ultimate Baby and Newborn Book for Dads

 The Ultimate Baby and Newborn Book for Dads, Bradford Alberts, Independently Published, 2020

Your partner has just presented you with a Positive pregnancy test. After the joy and hugs, the question quickly becomes "What do I do now?" This book attempts to answer that question.

The book explains what to expect during pregnancy. Her hormones will probably go haywire. This may manifest itself physically, or emotionally. Your job is to support her as much as possible, even with her strange food cravings in the middle of the night. The book also talks about what to expect during the first three months of your baby's life. Before the baby is born, baby-proof the house, as much as possible, and shop for baby clothes, along with things for the nursery.

Discuss, ahead of time, the role you will play in the delivery room. Bonding with your baby, the right way, is also very important. The author also talks about common illnesses, and what to do if it becomes more serious (be prepared for considerable spitting up).

This book belongs in the phone, or tablet, or somewhere easily accessible, of every new father and not-yet-father in America. The author does a first-rate job in making the childbirth process as easy for men as possible. This easily gets 5 stars.

The US Citizenship Test Study Guide

 The US Citizenship Test Study Guide, James Patino, Scientia Media Group, 2021

For someone not born in America, becoming an American citizen can be a very powerful thing. For instance, you will get priority in bringing your family to America. But, it is not easy. This book attempts to take the reader through the whole process. 

If you served in the military, you need to fill out a specific form (links are provided). If either of your parents were born in America, use a different form. The ten questions on the Citizenship exam are chosen randomly from a pool of 100 questions (all are in the book). They cover basic civics and US history; the book contains a basic, but very good, summary of US history. The English comprehension part of the test involves being given three sentences. The applicant will have to write one, and read another out loud. There is also a list of online resources to get additional information on becoming a US citizen.

This is an excellent book. It makes the whole citizenship process as painless as possible. For anyone who wants to become a US citizen, whether or not you are already living here, start with this book. It deserves more than 5 stars.

Be Something Wonderful

 Be Something Wonderful: When Suddenly You Want to Be More, Tom Kearin, Independently Published. 2017

This book talks about your "a-ha" moment, that jolt of energy that says that your dreams are about to become achievable. It also talks about quantum physics and its connection to the creative energy of the universe. The reader will learn about the Dare To Be It code, to help you be the best version of yourself. It includes suggestions like: Believe You Can Have It All; Dare to Face the Fear; Embrace the Everyday Magic of Life; Intuition is Your Superpower.

This is a very optimistic book. It also may be too mystical, and too "energy of the universe" for some people. It is still worth reading. A person never knows just where that life-changing spark of divine magic will come from. This book may be that spark.

Inspire Your Kid to Be the Next Elon Musk

 Inspire Your Kid to Be the Next Elon Musk, Sverre Steensen, Upstart Garage Media, 2021

Part of a series, this book presents lots of activities to help your kids navigate the entrepreneurial world.

What is a better business idea - becoming a blogger or YouTuber? What makes a good logo? Watch movies like "Jerry Maguire" or "Moneyball." What is upselling or cross-selling? Put together your elevator pitch. Create a new logo for McDonald's or Coca-Cola. How do you solve problems of your friends, parents or grandparents? What is your movie popcorn - a product that costs very little to make, but can be sold for a big profit?

This is an excellent book for young entrepreneurs. These activities will get them thinking creatively, even if they never start their own business. Very much worth reading.

Drug of Choice

 Drug of Choice, Mark Van Stratum, Lifestyle Entrepreneurs Press, 2016

This is the true story of a man who went from drugs and prison, to making millions of dollars online (legitimately).

Mark grew up in a small town in the Netherlands. He was continually bullied in school, because he lost his right arm at age five, when he was hit by a tram. The teachers at school were no help. Mark developed a savage temper, was expelled from school after school, and got into drug and alcohol abuse. Getting robbed by another drug dealer was his "a-ha" moment. If he didn't change his life, now, it would end very soon.

Mark abruptly moved to Poland, and got involved with a company that teaches men how to pick up women, eventually becoming an instructor. He also got into the world of affiliate marketing, creating several businesses that make millions in profit each year.

The author shows how anyone can change their attitude for the better. If he can do it, anyone can do it. This book is very honest, and is all about choosing the people you want to be with. This is well worth reading.

Dr. Sebi's Guide to Conquer Herpes

 Dr. Sebi's Guide to Conquer Herpes, Howard Fuller, Independently Published, 2021

Herpes is generally thought of as a disease to be endured. There is little, or nothing, that can be done about it. Few people think of herpes as a disease that can be reduced in severity, or even cured, with the proper diet. That's what this book is all about.

The book talks about what happens inside a cell when the herpes virus attacks. It explores just what the herpes simplex virus (HSV-1 and HSV-2) really is, and is not. The book talks about the symptoms of herpes. If you are experiencing an outbreak, you already know the symptoms. Herpes is also very contagious. A person can be asymptomatic; they can spread the disease without knowing that they have it.

OK, so how does one cure themselves of herpes? It starts with a total revamping of your diet. Eliminate dairy, junk food and processed food (the typical American diet). Greatly increase your consumption of fresh fruits and vegetables (organic, if possible). The veggies should be raw, or lightly steamed. Cooked or frozen veggies are not good enough. Drink lots of water. Greatly increase your consumption of fresh herbs, like basil, thyme or garlic. They can be cut up, and rubbed all over your herpes outbreak. They can also be tossed into a teapot, and consumed as a tea. 

As with all other such health books, a visit to your doctor, ahead of time, is a very good idea. This needs to be done for the long haul; changes will not come in a week or two. This book feels very plausible, and is very much worth trying out.

Saving the Light of Justice

 Saving the Light of Justice, Barry Nadel, Independently Published, 2021

In part 2 of a series, three members of an Israeli archaeological expedition are stuck in solitary confinement in a Spanish prison. International economic and media pressure force the king to pardon them. They almost don't make it out of prison alive.

A senior member of the Spanish Government wants to lure Yoshua, leader of the expedition, back to Spain, to label him as a terrorist, and to kill him. A pair of elderly Hoshiyans (kind of like a secret society) save Yoshua from an ambush. There is an action-packed shootout, where Yoshua captures the senior government official. Yoshua gets the chapel back, and its priceless artifacts. The excavating continues, while the Vatican would like the thing to quickly go away.

This book is a little less Wow! than part 1, but it is still an excellent story. It's more of an emotional book, as the Israelis deal with what they found in a sealed room inside the Spanish chapel (it involves the Spanish Inquisition). There is enough action here for anyone, and this book cannot easily be put down. It easily gets 5 stars.