'Unleash Your Potential' is a book by Abegande Sunday O, dealing with
motivation and the path to success, with emphasis on releasing ones full
potential. It does present a holistic look at the issue in sight, exhorting one
and all to "let good tidings sink into hearts and flow to your
subconscious that they pop up naturally, as needs arise".
The
introduction, which proclaims loudly that success comes only to "those who
discover and unleash their potential", amply prepares the reader for a
promising discussion, which he begins, by identifying the reasons for
experiencing failure in discovering oneself. He lists down eight such pitfalls
one may encounter, the list rightly featuring 'fear of failure' as the
foremost. Specific references are made to seven more upsetting circumstances
one should always be prepared to face, the effects of 'negative company and
inferiority complex' leading the list.
Giving an
interesting twist to this dissertation, he proclaims that "you are a born
winner, the product from the winner among the sperm cells deposited in the
mothers womb". Taking another turn to the adversities, he notes that the
bigger ones potential, the more the criticisms one stands to get. He further
dwells at length on the ways ones potential is to be harnessed, what fuels it
and what unleashes. He mentions about the wonders failure can do for us if we
want, by quoting the story of Roger Bannister who converted his failure as an
athlete in 1952 Olympics to the most successful performance by any athlete, by
breaching the four minute barrier of a mile run, two years hence.
His
syllogism "your time is your life therefore, procrastination is subtle
form of suicide" is aimed at all of us, those who come across a multitude
of opportunities but remain unsuccessful in grabbing them by mere lack of
alertness.
What better
conclusion can fit this critique than the accolades he pays to those who come
out from an examination in flying colors. "For them the examination
started the very first day by paying attention to the teacher. Time spent in
writing the examination was only the concluding part".
Reviewed by Roy T James for Reader's Favorite
‘Ugly Baby’ by Kim Duke opens with a comment attributed to
JK Rowling, “It takes great deal of courage to stand up to your enemies, but
even more to stand up to ones friends” Most of the times, you see, what is
affecting us, or what usually upsets us is our friends’ opinions. That, as the
author puts it is “the ugly baby experience”, which, “everyone has had” some
time in their life. Kim begins with the need to over come ones own resistance
and goes on to discuss the ways to defeat the bad habit of getting stuck. She
points to the importance of thinking big and to stir the pot to let creativity
flourish. “If people are talking about you in the back”, she says, “it is
because you are in the front” This, above all, should prepare one to accept
criticism and gossip and discard fear when launching anything new.
‘Ugly Baby’ by Kim Duke is an encouraging book. Her
exhortations call upon all in possession of ideas to let go of their fears. It
echoes the sentiments expressed by a poet, “Doubts are traitors, and they make
us lose. The good we oft might win, by fearing to attempt” Whether one is starting
a business, launching a new product, marketing in new and untested ways, aiming
a different target audience or letting ones imagination run wild, the thoughts
contained in these pages shall be a great asset in preparing oneself to meet
any challenge, however contorted.
Reviewed by Roy T James for Reader's Favorite
‘Twisting Darkness’ by
JR Gridley is a
collection of five short stories, each, better than the other. If the reader is
going to find goblins in the story Sleeping Madness, priests, Lucifer, demons
and God play their part in Unending Faith. And the story Virus narrates a
detective and a virus chasing each other. All stories thus deal with unique and
interesting themes. Black Swan takes place in an asylum of ‘nuts’, where,
Chelsea, a patient on the verge of discharge is given new pills by nurse and narrates
how, that lands her up with her last freedom. The end game is the last story of
this collection, which is about experimenting with mind and its alteration. It
is about introducing a new drink ‘Euphoria’ with such capabilities.
Twisting Darkness’ by
JR Gridley is
difficult to review since I can’t decide which one needs improvement, they all
being equally well written. Most of the stories of this collection are themed
around a new drug, Lucid Dreaming Synthetic or LDS for short, which as one of
the experimenters say “..was working so perfectly at first”. I’m sure you saw how much happier everyone
was, saw the drop in crime, wars, and bigotry.
Even after all the tests and all the safe guards humanity still found a
way to destroy itself” A cross section of our society finds its place among the other characters
of this collection. For example, one story talks about “The bureaucrats who
kept pissing and moaning about the amount of money being dumped into overtime”
A good read, enjoyable and stimulating.
Reviewed by Roy T James for Reader's Favorite
‘The Twisted Diary’ by
Anne Roberts is the
story of an independent woman Kate, her boyfriend Harrison and scores of
people, colleagues, friends and others. The protagonists break off leaving Kate
with many unanswered questions. She is forced to undergo an STD examination to
clear her doubts, while he continues his affair with some of her co-workers and
brags about. A lion’s share of this book is taken by these, as well as her
efforts to rekindle the fire between them. Her silent efforts can be seen to be
encouraged by the favorable comments from a colleague that he, Harrison, held
her in high esteem. This makes her forget much of the rancor, his keeping away
from her did cause.
‘The Twisted Diary’ by
Anne Roberts is an account of a blow-hot, blow-cold relationship. The
factors that play in changing its rhythm are many, which include the perceived
threat from women coworkers. Explicit mention of sexual encounters is made at
frequent intervals, that too in flowery prose, which in a not so short novel as
this filled quite a few pages. The inclusion of sex as an element of plot, I
think, is natural, since man-woman affairs are blown hot or cold by the
presence or absence of the same element, sex. But for these, this book is
replete with picturesque presentation of scenes, and sharp conversational
exchanges to support a good plot. Extensive use is made of new strategies of
communication and messages as conversational elements. One thing I must mention
though, the plot is lacking a good climax.
Reviewed by Roy T James for Reader's Favorite
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‘Survival Secrets of
Turkey Vultures’ by Debra Toor is a concise, short introduction to a bird of prey that is the most widespread of the New World vultures, popular in North America.
Illustrated with lovely photographs showing a lot, of the peculiar and
learnable aspects of this bird, this guide covers the many and varied features
of this bird, like brooding, feeding the chicks, flight characteristics to soar
the sky, the techniques adopted to collect her fleshy food and the tricks used
to keep enemies at bay. The ecological importance of these birds also finds
special mention. Over and above all these is the inclusion of important and
helpful data in the form of tables and lists, making this into a ready
reference.
‘Survival Secrets of
Turkey Vultures’ by Debra Toor is in fact, a romantic discourse on this
bird and its habitat. While reading the book introducing the vulture as a royal
bird, I felt that whatever information I could gather from it is additional in value.
Though written with children in mind, the author’s approach to the topic and
its presentation, and the high quality artwork makes it suitable for all. A
couple of exercises given at the end of the book, some of them of having the
potential to help bird watching enthusiasts, certainly add to its value,
making, learning easy and fun. Not to be left unmentioned of course is the
‘vulture’ crossword with which the book ends and completes its stature, as an
all in one guide.
Reviewed by Roy T James for Reader's Favorite
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‘TRICKLOCK: Operation
Powerful Vendetta’ by WILLIAM F. SINE begins with air force para rescueman Jake Tricklock racing
his truck to an awaiting helicopter, already manned and ready for a search and
rescue mission. Highly successful in rescue missions as well as in neutralizing
their attack plans, Tricklock becomes a target when an operation is launched by
the enemy, Al Qaeda, with a dreaded schemer Khalid at the helm. Tricklock is
joined by his son, a budding engineer who is adept with the latest in technology
and, who is also in an excited state of mind thanks to watching TV shows with
his father in many graphic scenes of action. In inclement weather and an unfriendly
terrain, the team has to spend the last drop of energy, determination and grit
to surpass an equally determined enemy that is also blind with indoctrination,
to everything except their aim.
‘TRICKLOCK: Operation
Powerful Vendetta’ by WILLIAM F. SINE is action, from the word go. The hardships of living in forward
area, the difficulties of arranging medical help and the need to be always on
ones toes are shown in this book remarkably well. To be always one up on the
enemy, the basic ingredient of success in any mission, is there for all to see,
in the way actions are planned and executed by both the sides. A good book,
fast paced action and well planned moves, but, in some places, thorough
description got better of crisp narrative, the natural element of a thriller.
Reviewed by Roy T James for Reader's Favorite
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‘Thrown Again into the
Frazzle Machine’ by Margaret Dubay Mikus is a collection of poems reflecting a rough patch of the
author’s life, a period jolted by surgeries, the collection ‘intended to act as
a life-boat in the journey through rough seas. The collection begins with a
feeling of hopelessness, “One day when I am gone, the sky will be ordinary blue
and the stars will shine true’, in between the author questions herself “Put
down the sword of self-destruction, stop stalling myself..”, forays into
abstract notions in poems like Empress of Inertia and True Yoga as well as
reflecting on her state of abject weakness in many of the poems. As the author
mentions in the beginning, the emotion she wanted to paint through these lines is
one of the ‘lows’ of her life.
‘Thrown Again into the
Frazzle Machine’ by Margaret Dubay Mikus truly reflects all that the author planned for. A sense of
loss permeates through the lines of this collection, which, even a few poems
reflecting happier thoughts is not able to counter. Some of the poems, like Pam
or Burning a Candle at Both Ends stand apart in their beauty of words. Some
others like, Err on the Side of Caution, can lead one to deeper thoughts. In
short, this collection can represent many facets of the emotional trauma that
the author went through, if we are to consider that each and every poem is a
subtle image of the author’s volcanic state of mind.
Reviewed by Roy T James for Reader's Favorite
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‘Three Hellenic
Cypriots’ by Andreas Antoniou Melas tells the history and achievements of Cyprus, through the
examples of a political leader, a religious leader and a sportsman, how the
turn of the events in their lifetime reflect the high points in Cypric history.
Discussions, more philosophical than mere factual, about the desires and
aspirations of Cypriots, both Greek and Turkish, power struggle with the
Ottoman Empire, influences of the British empire and other less known facets of
middle east history are contained in these pages. It was interesting to read
about the athlete who was spared from death, by the Nazis, for his Berlin
Olympics credentials. From mention of the part played by Cyprus in Trojan War
to the important role it enacted in solving the Jewish problem, no event of
significance is left untouched by the author.
‘Three Hellenic
Cypriots’ by Andreas Antoniou Melas brings many less known areas of Cypric history to fore
through biographical sketches. It was surprising for me to learn that Cyprus was
the originally selected area for establishing a Jewish state, with a plan to
accommodate Cypriots elsewhere. The fine line existed between Greek and Turkish
Cypriots, the different proposals regarding ceding Cyprus to other states,
originated after each world war, how a win in marathon by Kyriakides,
the Cypriot, resulted in US aid to the country and many other interesting
fragments are there in this book to hold ones interest. Easy to read and mostly
dealing with humane topics, this book is a welcome addition to any collection
of good books.
Reviewed by Roy T James for Reader's Favorite
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‘Three Decades of Lily’
by Diane C Smyth is
the story of five women, who, grown up and blossomed in differing
circumstances, each exciting in its own right, happen to join together in life
and flourish. The story starts at the funeral of one of the five friends,
Liora, an adopted child who rose to become a name in the fashion world and the
‘glue that held all of them together’. Sunny, who worked hard to become a
seamstress but reaches greater heights by her ambition, Shiela, an epitome of
hard work and struggle, the self confident Sunny who is raised to the position
of a store manager from the humble beginnings of an assistant and Emily, a
talented girl from a flourishing background whose life has already become a
playground with an unusual affair, complete the crowd. How events bring
together each of them by chance, how they find help fro each other and how the
challenges of setting up an empire are faced by them, is what unfolds through
the narrative. The story ends with an unexpected and intriguing twist.
‘Three Decades of Lily’
by Diane C Smyth kept me immersed in full, the desire to know what is going
to come taking better of me most of the times, I had a tough time, not to turn
pages before I finish reading. Deeply enjoyable, I found it natural to identify
with many of the male characters of this story and I suppose, the female
characters, almost all of them strong personalities, also shall be
appropriately owned! Fast action and a deft narration make this a good read.
Reviewed by Roy T James for Reader's Favorite
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Having seen in the forward of ‘Thoughts on Life: Random and Otherwise’ by Jennifer Rego that
“most of which I knew extremely well have already been penned and hence these
thoughts”, it was with a bit of apprehension that I approached the book. My
fears were unfounded; this book is wisdom from the very first page to the last.
Jennifer covers a broad range of topics; from finance, where she tells about
the stock broker as the only beneficiary of short term investment, to human
destiny, where she pontificates on the importance of taking risks in the
accomplishment of our dreams, there is nothing where her attention does not
fall. Sometimes she bats for green tea, or makes new adages like “every
purchase you make is a vote with your dollar”. She also feels intimidated and
silenced by food libel laws, reasonably so.
‘Thoughts on Life:
Random and Otherwise’ by Jennifer Rego is a repository of good sense. It can successfully replace all
the wisdom we would have been retaining from quite a few books. From light
hearted remarks about the demise of post offices to well considered opinions
about the health care imbroglio, this book houses them all. Though Jennifer is
attracted to many streams of philosophy, especially of Indian background, the
obscurity permeating such thoughts is noticeable by its absence. Most of the
discussions are on real, day to day issues, like, the ones mentioned above, is
definitely of practical applicability. That makes this book a worthy companion
or a recommended daily read. Well done Jennifer!
Reviewed by Roy T James for Reader's Favorite
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‘Think Less, Live More’
by Shelley Row depicts the writers journey to feel
successful and worthy, which begins with the authors visit to a counselor and
ends with the authors counsels for the reader, ‘Think less. Listen more…’. In
between, the book looks at the subject of attaining ones dreams, in a different
light, with greater attention paid to feeling and less to thinking. It implores
one to lead by heart to live more with courage. It comes down to this, lead
with your heart; manage with your head.
But you can’t lead with your heart and manage with your head if you
don’t develop the habit of hearing both voices and this boo k dwells on ways to
connect with the persona of feeling. Moreover, it is a practical guide with
helpful reminders and tables to effectively plan ones sojourn with ones
feelings.
‘Think Less, Live More’
by Shelley Row is
written in conversational style with greater impetus on practical adaptability
of its content. Towards this, many charts, lists and tables are provided, in
addition to a structured routine one is recommended to follow, for each of
them. In short, for those who wish to adopt the instructions in their life,
hardly any efforts are needed in addition to the instructions it contain. Simple and easy to follow, this book converts
the rather obscure topics of emotional trespass, meditation, affirmation,
calming and energy recovery into a child’s play for the grown ups, culminating
in the titular theme of the book, think less, live more.
Reviewed by Roy T James for Reader's Favorite
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‘Thinking Finance’ by
Dimitrios V Syskos
is an illustrated book on accountants, an opportunity to see the many facets of
their work through humor. Through twenty three cartoons, which are really
humorous, the author presents some of the widely acknowledged traits of this
species of professionals. The accountant shipwrecked in a lonely island, when offered
a boon, replying that he needs a pc to continue his calculations exemplifying
the deep affinity accountants have with numbers, or, the dying girl with only six
months to live is advised to marry an accountant as that would make the six
months look longer, showing the rather boring nature inherent in them, as well
as the one when asked what is 2 + 2, replying by asking ‘What you would like it
to be?’ exposing ones nature of always keeping
the client well pleased, are examples of the intellectual acuity behind these
cartoons.
‘Thinking Finance’ by
Dimitrios V Syskos
do contain a good collection of cartoons with a professional appearance and of a
funny nature. This is a good book for light reading, while conveying the
generally acclaimed behavioral patterns of such professionals around the world,
which, through humorous quotes, stories and cartoons are already familiar to
us. As an example of a common refrain, one question comes to my mind, why do
accountants make good lovers? They have a way with figures. This book can certainly
act as filler during protracted discussions or meetings, which accounting
professionals usually have as part of their routine work.
Reviewed by Roy T James for Reader's Favorite
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‘The
Wisdom of Perfection’ by L. M. McDowall, MSSc is a set of
corrective directions to get over the feeling of ‘being dumped’, by a male
friend or companion. Seven different techniques for achieving this is discussed
here, which essentially, is substituting ones chagrin with a flaw or other
weaknesses of the boyfriend. For example, Logic Perspective, one such technique
consists of magnifying the imperfections seen in the gentleman (no one in there
without a flaw!) to hide ones disappointment. Similarly, Experience
Perspective, another approach, is nothing but reliving the past to remember any
incident which can show him in bad light. Concentrate on those and very soon
you will find that he doesn’t deserve you. The other five techniques also are
aimed to achieve similar ends, successfully freeing one to meet the next right
guy.
‘The
Wisdom of Perfection’ by L. M. McDowall, MSSc prepares one to
face the ‘thumbs down’ in dating. I felt all that is mentioned, the advice to
get over being dumped by ones boyfriend, is applicable to gentlemen as well.
(girl friends can also discard!) The defensive strategy discussed in this book
covers almost all eventualities making it a complete guide to forlorn lovers.
Though I am not able to vouch for its effectiveness, having never been dumped
(There was no occasion!), this guide certainly has the potential to become a
‘must’ read for young people in preparing them to face a heartbreak. Simple and
effective steps, quite easy to follow too, as can be shown by this example
“Am I not worth more than this?
Do
I not deserve better than this?
Yes
you do and yes you are! He just wasn’t good enough for you, if he was, you
would still be together”
Reviewed by Roy T James for Reader's Favorite
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‘The Seven Deadly Sins
of Business Valuation—Entrepreneurs, Small Businesses & Government
Guaranteed Lenders’ by Robert M. Clinger III, after a good introduction to the concept of
valuation of a business, discusses the methods practically used by businesses for
such calculations, namely, the income approach, market approach or the asset
approach. The significant pitfalls one might experience in this are deliberated
at length, beginning with the first deadly sin in this regard, confusing fair
market value with strategic value. Others which have the potential for errors (sins)
follow, like, incorrect adjustment of financial statements, unreasonable
forecasts and a few more. In each of these, through sample business data
relating to many actual cases, the underlying concept and the relevant
calculation steps is analyzed threadbare.
‘The Seven Deadly Sins
of Business Valuation—Entrepreneurs, Small Businesses & Government
Guaranteed Lenders’ by Robert M. Clinger III discusses about a crucial element of an important
part of US economy, Small and medium businesses. In this, value creation is a
key financial metric in measuring both the success of the business and the
entrepreneur. This book, which is a part of a series devoted to familiarizing
with such areas, does a good job of presenting the matter in simple and easy to
grasp form. As the book is providing a lot of examples from real life
scenarios, understanding the subject matter becomes a simple task. One
observation though, a quick review of the other volumes of this series, if
included in this book, would have enabled even better grasping, by maintaining
continuity.
Reviewed by Roy T James for Reader's Favorite
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‘There and Back Again’
by Timothy Imhoff is
about adventures. The very first one happens to begin when a travel hungry
gentleman falls in love with his first date, who also is made for adventure.
Adventures continue with the author’s trip to Costa Rica for a private wedding in
secluded beach in a Pacific Ocean island, where their honeymoon is filled with
exciting encounters with howler monkeys, followed by a visit to an active
volcano, a rarity, by any scale. Further adventures happen in succession,
another trip to Costa Rica to celebrate their third wedding anniversary, one to
Uganda, where they brush with crocodiles, and to Rwanda, where they learn to appear
docile and at standstill to avoid exciting, passing gorillas.
Their
adventures at home are more civil, like the visit to a nudist resort and taking
part in a naked run! Or the trip to New England and how, his next book is born
from a page of the guest journal kept in a country inn.
‘There and Back Again’
by Timothy Imhoff is
adventure at every turn of the page. It can also boast of a short but very
moving description of some of the most exciting parts of nature, like erupting
volcanoes or angry gorillas. Many parts of the book, like the role of Peace
Corps in Africa, are in addition, informative to readers. It is certainly
interesting to note that the author has selected for his journey, places, Mr.
Bilbo Baggins, his inspiration, would have been frequenting in the unseen and
amazing book by his favorite author, J. R. R. Tolkien. A good book,
readers can benefit a lot.
Reviewed by Roy T James for Reader's Favorite
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Attack on a virus company specializing in related research by
an out fit named ARF (Animal Rights Front) and subsequent release of a large
number of animals, many of them infected, marks the beginning of the thriller, ‘The Quiet Way’, by ROBIN MELHUISH. There
are some persons of British origin who are in clandestine operations with Bin
Laden on matters of biological terrorism, who progress research, especially of
H1N1 derivatives. Also, urgent discussions are on, at all levels of government,
regarding the threat posed by the release of hundreds of lab animals as well as
the danger posed by a splurge in industrial accidents. In this scenario, the
security agencies have to face a challenging task to locate the source of
trouble, some of which is hiding in their own backyard, before the society is
torn to pieces.
‘The Quiet Way’, by ROBIN
MELHUISH can boast
of an action packed plot, quite imaginative selection of events, places and the
proponents, as well as a gripping narrative. Whether in the form of riots, or
as people attempting to flee the nation, the disruptions of a terrorist attack
is shown in its fullest extent, the prime roles of security agencies presented
with elan`. Professionally sound plot, for example, the difficulty of dealing
with such a biological agent is shown clearly in the remarks by investigator, “to
infect the terror cells,
the lapse between infection and
outbreak is too short.’ A worthy attempt and indeed a good addition to our
literary wealth, especially of thriller genre.
Reviewed by Roy T James for Reader's Favorite
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‘THE PROTOCOL, A
PRESCRIPTION TO DIE’ by John P. Goetz begins with Evan Anderson Teague or Eat collecting the
remains of his late father from Aequalis Health, the pioneer in distributive
healthcare policies. This new approach is based, incidentally, is based on the
premise that medical care to be provided by the society to any individual
should depend on measurable benefits the society is receiving from that
individual. Barbara Nordstrom, who is in charge of this medical policy, is in
the process of issuing certain strict directives, called protocols, for
effective implementation of this. Eat, in his quest for finding further
information regarding his father’s death finds a helpful companion in his girl
friend Andy, who is a forensic scientist, and both of them come across a bunch
of findings leading them more and more into a vortex of intrigue and mystery.
‘THE PROTOCOL, A
PRESCRIPTION TO DIE’ by John P. Goetz is a medical thriller of great proportions. The manipulative
techniques and other controls proposed in this story are not at all an impossibility
in the real world. Deft handling of exchanges and other interactions and fast
action make could be observed throughout the story, like, “Eat lurched towards his knees as
rapidly, and as hard as he could. He landed on the floor with a thump. He
opened his eyes. As he focused on the carpet fibers in front of his eyes, he
heard the distinctive pop of silencer-equipped gun” John has given enough
attention in bringing all aspects of the plot to its final conclusion.
Reviewed by Roy T James for Reader's Favorite
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‘Phone Life‘ by Paris
Gamble begins when
David, a young and successful software engineer, is led to reminiscing his past
affairs with the present companion. He recalls his childhood, growing up,
vagaries of classes, a feminine (cute) attraction and all. The reluctance David
felt to ask his classmate, Carlie, out, how great was the romantic attraction
he felt, how he always chickened out at the last moment in taking her out, and
how they used to meet for tutoring as he couldn’t bring up any other question
other than their lessons, are some of the tales of the romantic past, the
memories contain. Even an audacious plan brought by his close friends and
classmates to unite them amorously, happen to backfire, ultimately ensuring
that the two shall not meet amicably till they graduate. However good luck is
waiting for them, as they enter into the world of independent living…
‘Phone Life‘ by Paris
Gamble contains
elements of autobiography of anyone who ever was an adolescent. Every twist and
turn hides some event from ones own school days, a reader may feel. Like the
fears, David has in choosing between his pals and his flame could have been
there with any of us. However, the allegory of the old cell phone held safely
for years, succeeds in showing the true feelings that was always kept hidden in
David. A novel made for the age of dreaming, this is a good read for all those,
who would like to be with sweet memories.
Reviewed by Roy T James for Reader's Favorite
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‘The Perpetual
Paycheck’ by Lori B. Rassas begins by identifying the fact that ‘in the workplace, there are only
short term commitments - An absence of mutual obligation between employer and
the employee.’ Introducing the topic
with a short discussion on paycheck and the necessity that one has to fend for
oneself, Lori jumps to Secret #1-Cash is the king. Because of the transient
nature of today’s workplace, one cannot hope for seeing it existing for a long
time, let alone being a permanent part. Lori thereafter discusses Secret #2,
remembering who the Boss is. Other secrets follow, Turning troubles into
triumphs where focus is on advantages, Expanding ones hunting grounds which
talks about a more rational job search, and ending with How to develop and use the
benefits of networking which examines the potential of modern ‘communities’.
‘The Perpetual
Paycheck’ by Lori B. Rassas is a book made for the present. Because of the fast pace of
technological changes, the society overall is facing certain shifts everywhere,
one of most notable areas being our workplace. This book has the potential to greatly
increase ones self-confidence, an invaluable asset, in leading a happy life in
such an environment of transience. I wish I read this book many years earlier
which would have prepared me in dealing with all the unsettling changes I
faced, better. The book follows a simple and easy style of narration. Replete
with humor, cartoons and anecdotes this book is a light read conveying however,
more important ideas.
Reviewed by Roy T James for Reader's Favorite
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‘The Path to Job Search
Success’ by Tom Payne
begins with an interesting observation that human is psychologically wired to
move in the wrong direction down the job-search path. He therefore emphasizes
the need to be well prepared with the correct approach at all times. We may be
clear that in an interview, how well one presents ones achievements matter more
than the achievements themselves. It is also essential that we give due
allowance to the human weakness of having a stubborn faith in the meaningfulness
of our achievements and a disregard for our failures. Especially in this, the importance
of body language and the necessity to assume a high power pose cannot be
over-emphasized. Also, mastering the subconscious speech of non-verbal behavior
is one of the most important job search tasks. One should be able to articulate
ones strength in a compelling way, ie. create a sentence that contains the strengths most relevant
to the hiring organization. Tom rates some questions in an interview as suicide
questions. A few examples are, What are your weaknesses, Tell me about your
worst boss etc, and he discusses techniques for answering these as well. Tom
completes the book with the most crucial take “…Always be positive. Always! And
no excuses. Ever”
‘The Path to Job Search
Success’ by Tom Payne
is in fact a practical manual to prepare for any interview. Wise suggestions,
inspiring real life stories and helpful tips make this book a worthy guide and
reference. The book can boast of many new and valuable tips to make one a sure
winner.
Reviewed by Roy T James for Reader's Favorite
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‘Listen Up! The Other Side is Talking’ by Kelle Sutliff, as the author says is Pearls of
Wisdom and inspirational ideas for a
fuller life. The book begins with her journey in search of the person inside
her, how she held nature with reverence, the many facets of identifying and
directing psychic energy and its use, the way it helped her in identifying
others’ needs and desires and above all, how it helped her in getting answers
to each and every question. She talks about events and the signs pointing to them,
for example how, even the horrific happenings of 9/11 could be identified in a
few signs she and others of psychic power had to feel or witness.
‘Listen Up! The Other
Side is Talking’ by Kelle Sutliff is not an easy read, especially for
people like me, uninitiated into the dark world of the psyche. Quite candid is
her treatment of the portion regarding her initiation into the spiritual world,
and also of the necessity to accept this calling willingly. Using the metaphor
of a ‘Psychic Coffee’ the author emphasizes the need for continuous, daily
preparations to make this as ones second nature. The part her Grandmother
played in her career as well as the helpful support from her mother stand apart
in her sojourn through the alleys of the spirit. I, having no such background
to make one capable of appreciating the realm of the spirit and consequently in
no position to examine the content critically, did find this useful in
understanding something new.
Reviewed by Roy T James for Reader's Favorite
_____________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________
‘The Mystic High Adventures
of Fannie Flame & Crew’ by Claudia Hagen introduces ballooning, as a ‘form of flight where the
destination is irrelevant and the journey is everything’. How the author
developed an instant liking to this ‘costly’ game, what all difficulties she had
to undergo while learning this, the travails of becoming the proud owner of a
balloon while being someone living from paycheck to paycheck and the journey
thereafter ending in her name becoming one to reckon with, as far as balloon
flying go, are described in this extremely interesting book. The 40th
psalm, always revered by the balloonists and the AIDS, the balloonists need to be
afraid of (Aeronaut Induced Divorce Syndrome!) are some of the topics contained
in other chapters. The near fatal accident at Albuquerque, from which the crew
escaped by jumping up in the balloon, gives one Goosebumps.
‘The Mystic High
Adventures of Fannie Flame & Crew’ by Claudia Hagen is a treat from the word go till the
end. The commotion, the lady pilot with her three kids must have caused in and
around the ballooning world as well as the competence the children showed in
handling the ballooning machinery, comes alive in these pages. The troubles,
the author must have faced from a philanthropic husband and the difficulty of
clearing FAA tests, is overshadowed by the fact that the author has more than
400 hours of balloon flying to her credit. One of the best books I have read
for many a year, the content as well as the presentation of this book leaves no
room for any comment.
Reviewed by Roy T James for Reader's Favorite
_____________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________
‘The Mindful Lifestyle’
by Gary Green is
about teaching mindfulness techniques and concepts to enable those who use
these principles to improve the quality of their lives and relationships. The
book begins with an illuminating discussion about transcendental meditation and
approaches the question of mindfulness, loosely put as, reflecting about the
present. Gary goes on to introduce the techniques for achieving concentration,
and here, using mundane day to day tasks like knitting, painting, washing
dishes or playing, as a mindfulness exercise is elucidated. Mindfulness is then
examined in various, different hues of its occurrence. The functional aspects
of the mind, logical versus the emotional parts, willfulness versus
willingness, compassionate versus a pullover, feeling versus expressing
gratitude, as well as, the relevance of these aspects in self healing are
elaborated.
‘The Mindful Lifestyle’
by Gary Green is a
simple, easy and practical guide to a rather complex subject. I found it hard
to believe that meditation and the many facets of self healing are in fact is
so effortless. This is thus a good guide, especially for those who would like
to get an introduction to this line of thinking. The book is also replete with
helpful lists and stepwise procedures, enhancing its usability. The result of
using ones wise mind and living the mindful lifestyle will result in one
becoming more adept I living. Or, as Gary mentions “You will become more
willing to accept what life throws at you. You will be healthier both
physically and mentally, and you will live longer.” An interesting book,
indeed.
Reviewed by Roy T James for Reader's Favorite
_____________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________
‘The Last Cigarette: Five
Steps to Quitting for Good’ by Carol Savoie attacks smoking is an intuitive way. Step one, Carol explains
is to find for yourself a really big reason to quit, the bigger, the better.
The next step is to form a strategy. For example, the seven stage strategy she
recommends contain, choosing a date, using powerful words to specify ones
decision (the more powerful the word, the more likely the adherence!),
providing support tools as well as, a reward system for yourself. The next three
steps, lighting up a support team (someone to remind, if you forget that you
are off cigarette), inhaling continuously the progress, as well as sharing the
health benefits suffice, to turn one into a complete nonsmoker, that too for
good.
‘The Last Cigarette: Five
Steps to Quitting for Good’ by Carol Savoie can boast of five instinctive and shrewd steps. Each
of those incorporating a feedback mechanism, it can be easily seen that this
set of strategy is bound to win. She has explained each of these in good
detail, mentioning the rationale behind the idea in use, which also looks
plausible. For example, she mentions about the importance of rewarding oneself
for success achieved at each stage or its part, suitably so that ones mind does
not deviate from the decision to quit. So also is the possibility of the
synergy brought in by the support system (well wishers!) augmenting ones
effort. A good book, a thorough guide covering all aspects of the issue, with
assured after sales support for implementing the suggestions.
Reviewed by Roy T James for Reader's
Favorite
‘The Hypnotist’ by
Alyssa Devine is a
YA novel, specially printed in a font appropriate for readers with dyslexia, which
has the beginnings of its plot, when Kylie Decker, a young woman, is stopped by
police and found murdered thereafter. Amanda, Tom and Phil are classmates and
Tom, a budding hypnotist, is on to trying his special abilities of
psychologically manipulating people frequently on them and with much success.
Though this is amusement to Tom, causes much distress to Phil. Tom is
interested in trying his abilities on Amanda, especially so, she being charming,
bright and intelligent. When Tom manages, on one occasion to hypnotize her,
strange stories of her past life comes out, which perplexes him and he
continues to do that on a few more occasions. Each time, her reminiscences of
past life results in exposing many forgotten incidents, unknown details and
other expositions, including the one involving Kylie. Tom also confirms these
instances with the help of a search on internet. And such exposures go on…
‘The Hypnotist’ by
Alyssa Devine can
boast of physical attributes necessary in a book specially written for the
dyslexia affected, like a wide margin, ragged right, frequent paragraph breaks
and a single special font. The plot is also drawn with quite many situations needing
resolution, thereby calling for earnest involvement from the readers, another
facet of interest to such an audience. For example, the heroine, Amanda,
appears as different personalities on different occasions of hypnosis, and providing
befitting answer to each and every question, leaving Tom, as well as some of
the readers in a quandary with too many mysteries. Weaving rich stories about
the past leading to solution of each mystery a different colorful tale, this
action packed novel is also an entertaining read.
Reviewed by Roy T James for Reader's
Favorite
‘THE DOOM MURDERS’ by
Brian O’Hare is a
story of a few murders. To begin with, a bishop is killed in a grotesque manner
and the only notable clue from the naked body is an alphanumeric word. During the
resulting police investigation itself, more deaths take place of comparable
nature. Even after many days of the dastardly incidents, as a clue fail to
emerge pointing to a plausible theory as to the criminal, the investigators
turn to all possible help, one of that being religious doctrines. With the help
of biblical experts, the investigators manage to decode the writings retrieved
from the scene of the crime, especially the alphanumeric word and its possible
relevance, which leads the police to a totally unexpected direction.
‘THE DOOM MURDERS’ by
Brian O’Hare is
mystery at every turn of the page. The painstaking, repetitive and dry nature
of detective work of solving a murder is shown in its real
depth. Towards that, O’Hare writes with a keen eye for detail with his tale
evolving at a surprisingly fast pace. The stereotypes that dominate popular
crime thrillers, especially of these days, are notable by their absence and
O’Hare leans toward the human side of his characters, imbuing them with a real
world presence that is by turn witty and passionate. This is most evident in
his lead, Jim Sheehan, who in his introspection, wrestles with the conflicts of
faith as his investigations progress. It’s cleverly connived and highly thought
provoking. A great crime thriller and an enthralling read.
Reviewed by Roy T James for Reader's
Favorite
‘The Corridor of
Uncertainty’ by Nihar Suthar begins with a recap about the many enjoyable parts of the
game following with a brief overview of the Afghan political situation since
the 1970’s. After discussing the power struggles within as well as the presence
of the Soviet forces, the rise of Taliban and the departure of Soviets are
mentioned. The proliferation of relief camps and in one such camp when the
topic of interest turns to the recent victory of a friendly country, Pakistan,
in the cricket world cup, how the idea of forming an Afghan cricket team is
originated in a few daring young friends looks too good to be true! However
they manage to organize a team and find time to practice. The travails of
achieving all this, while adhering to the extremely restricted life style
imposed by the Taliban, reverberates in every page of this book.
‘The Corridor of
Uncertainty’ by Nihar Suthar is a chronicle of the determination and hard work of a few ardent
followers of the game of cricket. How the involvement and sincerity shown by
the young people resulted in the most extreme adherents of the repressive
policies changing their stand and becoming more and more accommodating, makes
interesting reading. The unfortunate events of 9/11, the impact, that lead to
in Afghanistan, the severe impact, that caused to Afghan cricket, and the
dismay it caused for the these young enthusiasts come alive in these pages. A
good read and aptly titled to reflect the prevailing insecurity, this is a
first hand description of the healing effect of sports and games.
Reviewed by Roy T James for Reader's
Favorite
‘The Biggest Picture:
From Big Bang to the Development of the Big Bang Theory’ by Wendy Curtis presents the scientific community’s
best theories about major events from the Big Bang until present times.
Beginning with the Big Bang and the creation of simplest elements, it discusses
the formation of stars, heavier elements, birth of sun and solar system, and
the evolution of life on earth. The path life takes, from dinosaurs to mammals,
from control of fire to hunting and agriculture and from civilization to civilization
with different social stratification methodology is addressed, historically and
romantically, appropriately for an information seeker. The model of the
Universe presented here is the one evolving through time from a singularity, which
is in line with the modern paradigm.
‘The Biggest Picture:
From Big Bang to the Development of the Big Bang Theory’ by Wendy Curtis acquaints the reader with all that
has happened in the past that caused the present, in a format that retains ones
interest. This book is therefore useful both as a study material to the
uninitiated to the well informed.
Reviewed by Roy T James for Reader's
Favorite
SUCCESSFUL,
WIN-WIN STRATEGIES FOR A SUPERYACHT PROJECT
by Tomek M. Glowacki is a dissertation on what to do, what not to do, what to watch out for
and what to expect, in the cake mix of building a superyacht. The author,
chairman and principal investor in New Zealand Yachts in addition to long
association with superyachts in many capacities of great significance. Specific instructions are given, breaking down the
strategies into smaller portions like product development and project management, which is further
analyzed as small packets of work. Planning the work, launching, sea trials and
commissioning. are discussed next..The final task of the builder, handing over
the yacht to its owners is made clear, followed by the real completion, a
celebration party of ‘handing over’. However, the author does not forget to
mention that the real final act, one must not forget, is to collate the lessons
learned.
SUCCESSFUL,
WIN-WIN STRATEGIES FOR A SUPERYACHT PROJECT
by Tomek M. Glowacki is a very helpful document, not only
for those involved in yacht building, but also for all who are likely to be
connected with works of any kind. The author seems to have put in a lot of
effort to cover the whole gamut of meeting deadlines, while maintaining
quality. This excellent guide, towards the end of its advisory notes, comes up
with a rare gem-
“The most important thing in life is
not to capitalize on your successes - any fool can do that. The really
important thing is to profit from your mistakes."
Reviewed by Roy T James for Reader's
Favorite
‘Summer versus School:
The Possibilities of the Year-Round School’ by JAMES PEDERSEN re-examines the education pattern of
America. James, with many years of experience in this field feels an urgent
need ponder about the changes that are likely to happen, a major one being the ongoing
debates on year round schooling, especially in view of certain improvements,
like, Introduction of common standards of instruction, Evaluation and teachers
and performance pay as well as Vast advances in technology. One major stumbling
block to overcome was the incorrect assumption that year-round schooling could
only be achieved by increasing the number of days in the school calendar.
In this dissertation, by analyzing the effect of year round
education for each group of students, elementary, middle school and high
school, separately, he advocates year round school, accommodating coursework,
community service, and job experience wherever necessary.
‘Summer versus School:
The Possibilities of the Year-Round School’ by JAMES PEDERSEN identifies that, the reasons that caused
a ten-month calendar were mainly due to agrarian needs. However as this
rationale no more seems applicable as before and in light of global competition
and America’s consistently poor international rankings, it would seem like a
logical conclusion to extend the school year to increase instructional time, if
the prime position America holds in learning, is to continue. James presents
his arguments to support this school of thought, forcefully, and well supported
by data. But the move forward, as he warns, isn’t so easy, nor is it
unanimously embraced by parents, community members, businesses, or politicians.
A well presented study.
Reviewed by Roy T James for Reader's
Favorite
Subtle Annihilation:
How to Survive the Ongoing Genocide? by Pablo H is a journey through the many facets
of Christian theology and examining in detail, the tenets dear to each and
every Christian. He has devoted one chapter each to examine them, like The Satanic
Technique, Idolatry, Finding the Name of the Son to end with the examination of
Great Deception, the trick Satan uses for exterminating men. In each of these
chapters, he examines one of the critical questions of Christian faith, from
finding a name for Father to union of souls. Controversial at some places, his
handling of the subject is with subtle mastery and obvious care.
Subtle Annihilation:
How to Survive the Ongoing Genocide? by Pablo H covers almost all important ‘twists’
of Christian faith, prodding readers into thinking. Proposing an alternate view
of the beginning, which includes creation of humans by god as well as Lucifer
and the scuffle between descendants of both, he initiates further debates.
Borrowing profusely from other religions to support his arguments and taking
the help of modern science wherever necessary, he conclusively examines each
and every issue at hand. However, chapter headings could have bee shown with
character set for easy recognition. Copious quotes from bible, that too with
appropriate selection reconfirms his arguments. Like he says while discussing
quantum science “Yes, the presence of God is everywhere. That is why the
protons remain at the center of the atom and the electrons remain in their
orbit around it. That is why the moon, the planets and the stars and the
galaxies maintain the order of their movements”.
Reviewed by Roy T James for Reader's
Favorite
‘Sound Is Not Enough:
Captioning as Universal Design’ by Svetlana Kouznetsova aims to increase awareness about
quality speech-to-text translation as universal access and to illustrate
how it benefits many of us, regardless of our hearing abilities. The author, as
a prelude to the
discussions about various communication needs and abilities of people with
hearing issues, gives a brief insight into the nature of hearing loss,
especially, how loud
noises and listening to portable music devices, has increased the number of
deaf and hard-of-hearing people in the past few years, especially among the
youth. Solutions to this is then dealt with, the reader introduced to different
styles of captioning, like realtime, steno or offtime methods, movie and sports
captioning, as well as various phone relay services.
‘Sound Is Not Enough:
Captioning as Universal Design’ by Svetlana Kouznetsova examines all aspects of
communication for the deaf and dumb. The author’s suggestion to the non-deaf
non-dumb people to let go of their reservations and text using their cell phone
while sitting face to face with people like her, was thought provoking. The necessity of same-language captions, for deaf and hard-of-hearing
people living abroad to watch international channels in their own language,
problem of insufficient and bad
captioning are some of the issues yet to be solved. As she tells in the end,
let us hope that the day comes soon, when all TV sets and video players have
two buttons—one for volume and another for captions. I found this a good book,
introduced me to a lot I did not know.
Reviewed by Roy T James for Reader's
Favorite
‘Soul of the Eagle: A Chaplain Assistant's Recollection
of the Vietnam War’ by Philip V. Bulone
begins in 1967, when he joins the 101 Airborne Division Chaplain Unit of a well
known group, notable as a rapid reaction force since the invasion of Normandy.
After a brief foray into the historical relevance of chaplains in warfront as
well as introducing a few colorful ones among them, he describes the role, the
chaplain plays in preparing the soldiers for their fights and the experiences,
of living with them. Conducting prayer services, praying over wounded and dying
men who cry out for absolution and, escorting some really adventurous chaplains
who chose to join the patrol teams and be in the field, where, the basic lesson
of gun handling he received during orientation days is put to test, makes
interesting reading.
‘Soul of the Eagle: A Chaplain Assistant's Recollection
of the Vietnam War’ by Philip V. Bulone is
as absorbing as a thriller. Preparing the fighting men before their moves and
tending to the hurt, the injured and the badly mutilated ones among both the
American and South Vietnamese combatants are portrayed realistically. So is
also the threat from the Vietcong guerillas and their merciless attacks, on US
troops as well as on the defenseless civilians. The experiences, Philip gained
in handling God’s ministry with the chaplains as well as in their absence, and
how that enabled him in his duties back at home, is described in these pages. The
shock, of not being welcomed as heroes but rather as killers, ‘who would be
greeted by cries of “baby killers,” “go back, murderers,” and other horrific
chants by young and older people dressed in tie-dyed shirts, with ribbons in
their hair, and long-haired men smoking marijuana’, also reverberate in this
book.
Reviewed by Roy T James for Reader's
Favorite
‘THE SOLOMON TWIST’ by
Dan Hammond Jr
begins with a confusion. About an expecting baby, whether the ‘exed out’
husband or the defacto-man deserve credit, and come delivery, it happens to be
twins, to keep the hither to unsettled differences, fresh for re-use. The story
continues through the dimly lit alleys and the underground to the unraveling of
hopelessness, despair, hope, aspiration and other facets of life and living.
Both of them, a boy and a girl grow up accustomed to knowing their fathers as
Daddy One and Daddy Two and one of them is found dead. The associated queries confront
them throughout, of course, the question as to who the real daddy is, taking
the prime position.
‘THE SOLOMON TWIST’ by
Dan Hammond Jr is
quite a bit of story condensed into a couple of hundred pages. Each and every
actor in this drama has their own plot in the many twists and turns, the story
takes, the narrative is easy, with light hearted humor, (one may laugh, if so
wish!) and fairly unconventional. The plot, a case of naturally conceived twins
being accorded a multi-father connection, in itself is mystifying, not to say
anything about the resulting brouhaha, which, the author has managed to retain
till almost the end, by careful manipulation of scenes and its makeup. The
question, “Who shot Daddy Two?” remains in the air, while many and varied
characters make their entry and exit through this book. This is an entertaining
novel; adventure, suspense, thrill and drama with due share of sentimental
transactions fill the pages.
Reviewed by Roy T James for Reader's
Favorite
‘SMART TALK-The Public
Speaker’s Guide to Success in Every Situation’ by
LISA B. MARSHALL begins by taking the hell out of hello – How to introduce yourself or to
make a first impression. Lisa discuses many points here including the oft
forgotten, but very important dictum, the introduction should be relevant to
them. The magic of conversation, next topic discussed, focuses on what to say
when, and how to say it with tact and grace. Lisa also devotes a full chapter
to discuss difficult people to talk to, the procrastinators, the chatterboxes,
the bullies and other such misfits. How to give feedback, how to receive
criticism as well as practicing responses to handle criticism, are then
discussed. Lisa explains nine models of saying no, a vital part of any talk, as
well as the fourteen rules of negotiating, a rather difficult skill to master, without
damaging important relationships.
‘SMART TALK-The Public
Speaker’s Guide to Success in Every Situation’ by
LISA B. MARSHALL is a Godsend, especially when it comes to the problems that we are most
often faced with in connection with our work, resolving conflicts, strengthening natural charisma, or
persuading others. This book can prepare us to face any trouble,
unannounced or otherwise. With bulleted lists, prominent display of points to
remember and practice exercises, this is a complete manual to master the art of
communication. A helpful index, references of real life instances of many of
the concepts introduced and a chapter summary, make this an invaluable
reference for anyone involved in public speaking.
Reviewed by Roy T James for Reader's
Favorite
‘SISTERHOOD IN SPORTS’
by Joan Steidinger
tells the stories of all kinds of female athletes in a variety of sports. The
author begins with a primary concern in female athletes’ lives - intimate
(emotional) relationships that are necessary to meet the three imperatives for
female athletes, seeing, hearing, and speaking. Spliced beautifully with
anecdotes, experiences of well known athletes, conversations with other
sportswomen and, observations of connected individuals including coaches, this
convincing analysis discusses issues of special significance to female
athletes, like, importance of relationships, differences in communication style
between male and female, the conflict between competing and collaborating as
well as the impact, romance can have on sports. The significance, the female
brain places on emotional factors and the effect that will have on an athlete’s
performance is also discussed.
‘SISTERHOOD IN SPORTS’
by Joan Steidinger
is not only for reading. At almost every turn of page, a helpful hint, or a bulleted
list with many hints, appear with the potential to adapt the recommended
strategy in practice. An exhaustive list is also provided at the end, as notes,
to make further study on any of the aspects mentioned, easy. I found most of
the experiences and strategies mentioned in the book, though new (I am not a
sportsman!) to me, clearly understandable. After reading this, I am in a better
position to appreciate the quandary, when newspapers speak of unexplained and
sudden shift in caliber or unreliable performance graph of female athletes.
This is an excellent read for all, sportsmen, sportswomen or all those, who
ever will watch sports.
Reviewed by Roy T James for Reader's
Favorite
‘Shattered by the
Wars: But Sustained by Love’ by Hi Dong, is the story a Korean boy told by his own words, his childhood
at the time of World War II, Korean War, communism and associated turbulence.
The disturbances in his life are further accentuated by his religious
background and the constant interference by the authorities. To compound the
miseries further, Dong’s brother, the smartest and the brightest one in the
family, decides to become a communist. One day Dong finds his father being
abducted. Both mother and son are forced to abandon home. Adding to this is
the uncertainty of future. Dong’s excitement of finding s job for himself,
though non-paying, as a fish cleaner, searching for his mother and finally
reuniting with her, teaching Korean to an American boy and many other
incidents are there in this, capable of giving one Goosebumps.
‘Shattered by the Wars: But Sustained by Love’ by Hi Dong, is a story celebrating the hope of future. It is highly
unlikely that the indomitable human spirit of the mother and her son is not
able to leave a long lasting impression on the reader. This dangers of totalitarian thinking, supported by whatever
form of government, can be identified in the events and occurrences described
in this book and all those who read this are alerted to the possibility that
any one could have been in Hi Dong’s position. The narration and the honest
rendition of events are quite absorbing. I found it difficult to put down the
book.
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Reviewed by Roy T James for Reader's
Favorite
‘Second Wave
Spirituality: Passion for Peace, Passion for Justice’ by CHRIS SAADE begins by acknowledging the changes
that are happening to our spirituality, which should have been taking place
along with developments in other areas. All over the world, there is
understanding that the most urgent question facing mankind is not how
individual can be saved, but how the planet can be saved. Thus a new wave of
spirituality is emerging, no longer confined to prayer or meditation, for
action on a global level. Just as the first wave of spirituality liberated our
spirits from religious dogmatization, this wave shall remove the dualism of
spirit or the divine and our planet. This book examines the many facets of this
change, like unification of different and mostly opposing characteristics of
our social transactions and, the implication of all this to the individual.
‘Second Wave
Spirituality: Passion for Peace, Passion for Justice’ by CHRIS SAADE makes a subtle observation that “you
and I are part of one of the greatest evolutionary leaps of consciousness” to
explain the many changes visible on the social and political horizon. He quotes
the passing of a law by Ecuador ‘granting constitutional rights to nature’, as
one such move. Clear and lucid presentation of a relatively novel concept is
one of the high points of this book. A good discussion on ‘The First Wave’ of
spirituality, included in this book, makes the job of understanding this,
relatively easy. An exhaustive list of references, other notes and an index make
it even more useful as a reference.
Reviewed by Roy T James for Reader's
Favorite
‘SAFE NOWHERE’ by Tom Bleakley begins with Katie Hornsby, a law graduate who is beautiful,
suave and having an ice-breaker of a surname, surname being same as that of a
great entertainer, is on the lookout for a job. She runs into Dr Newton,
presently handling cases related to a drug, Lorital, that it is unsafe for
humans. She is hired by the firm and is tasked with preparations of impending
hearings as well as meeting victims of Enpact, the drug maker. In connection
with Lorital, inappropriate handling of statutory tests as well as,
substituting test samples with products from established manufacturers, comes
to light. More and more deaths are reported daily, followed by painstaking
preparation of the case, protracted sessions with the courts, and settlement of
disputes, threats, defeats and arguments. Her case progresses with the help of
imaginative writ pleas registered appropriately by Katie…
‘SAFE NOWHERE’ by Tom Bleakley is a legal thriller and a scintillating courtroom drama. As
the litigant’s attorney, Katie is a shining example of dedication, hard work
and the eye for details, which is a must, for all desirous of following this
profession. The troubles she is to face in each court in the appellate chain,
having different rules and guidelines to be followed to prevent the brief from
being rejected, makes interesting reading. So also as is the predicament, she
is happily under, to keep all her suitors at bay. Tom has taken special care to
keep a very important part of this story, the court room exchanges, witty and
sharp. Altogether a good read, a plot leaving a lot to cherish.
Reviewed by Roy T James for Reader's
Favorite
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