‘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 a really big reason to quit, naturally, the bigger the
reason, the better the success achieved. Step two is to form a quitting strategy.
She recommends a seven stage strategy in this regard, which 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. Steps three, four and five, lighting up a support team
(someone to remind, if you forget that you are off cigarette), inhaling
continuously the progress you achieve, 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. As
this approach incorporates a feedback mechanism inbuilt in each step, 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__________________________________________________________________________________
'Hard Days Hard Nights' by Patrick J.
DiCesare is the story of the birth of the rock ’n roll concert business in
Pittsburgh. The book begins with the rather humble beginnings of Pat, migrating
from Italy in 1920, and dwells on how their childhood went, earning nickels by
delivering newspapers and learning music in a second hand bass. Soon he starts
playing by joining a newly opened nightclub. He is eventually offered a
position as the head busboy. He arranges a Beatles’ show, the sensation of the
times, with great difficulty. However, he finds himself drafted at nick of
time, but every month he collects a part of his share of the show’s profit
(hundred dollars) to feel as the highest paid soldier in US Army! He also
hobnobs with bigger names in the music world like Jim Morrison, Led Zeppelin or
Aerosmith as well as conducting his own concerts and shows are described in
these pages.
'Hard Days Hard
Nights' by Patrick J. DiCesare is an authentic report of the early days of rock.
The book is a holistic report of the early days of rock, Pat being a pioneer of
great repute, entrepreneur and rock concert promoter. In these pages we can
feel the trials and tribulations faced by Pat since the very beginning. His
father’s implicit faith in him, by advancing 5000 dollars, that too by putting
a lien on the house, would have been a great motivating factor which propelled
him to become he highest earning concert promoter in USA. Deeply inspiring,
this book chronicles all the efforts that went unseen during the latter half of
the 20th century of the music industry in general, and of his town Pittsburgh
in particular. Indeed, a great book to read.
Reviewed by Roy T James for Reader's Favorite
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‘Life, Love, and a Hijacking’ by Wendy Sue
Knecht begins with the great elation she felt at her selection by PanAm and the
joy of flying and, the greater joy of clearing the bone caliper test. Getting
nicknamed goodie-goodie for her adherence to rules, falling in love with her
job, how the sweet aroma of travel as well as the fun of living with pools made
this a remarkable life to lead, how each of the lands she frequented being its
own distinct olfactory experience like the pungent spicy smell of India or the
smoky Turkish aroma of Istambul, do find its description here. Missing out on
planned events by unscheduled stops and delays, as well as her most idiotic
move, a solo visit to Africa on an eight day off, adds anxious twists to this
page turner.
‘Life, Love,
and a Hijacking’ by Wendy Sue Knecht is a collection of memories rich in its
variety and content. The excitement of a glamorous life, the high flyers lead,
and the human touch that is always there with them, comes alive in these pages.
Though in this book she mentions about a colleague having a condition, OCD, or obsessive
cleaning disorder, I think it is more likely that she also has a condition,
ORD, or obsessive recollection disorder! For, having been working with
air-crafts and its operations, I can tell with confidence that there aren’t
many opportunities of entertainment or celebrations associated with a flying
career that are not mentioned here. An excellent read, it held my attention
from the moment I started till I turned the last page.
Reviewed by Roy T James for Reader's Favorite
'Dinosaurs and Indians: Paleontology Resource
Dispossession from Sioux Lands' by Lawrence W. Bradley argues that vertebrate
fossils are yet another natural resource dispossessed from subjugated people
like Sioux of the Northern Great Plains of USA. It begins with an introduction,
the purpose of study, its methodology and literature review, followed by the
history of vertebrate fossil dispossession from the Great Sioux Reservation and
adjacent Indian lands from 1847 to 1899, as well as from 1900 to the present.
This dissertation in its conclusion will bring together the past, present, and
future of paleontology on Indian lands of the Great Plains. The following
questions are addressed: 1) Was the vast paleontological resources located on
Indian lands of the Great Plains since the mid nineteenth century used to ones
advantage? If so, by Whom? 2) What is the volume and value of fossils held at
three prestigious American museums? 3) What should be cultural physical
geography that would help ensure ethical research procedures?
'Dinosaurs and Indians: Paleontology
Resource Dispossession from Sioux Lands' by Lawrence W. Bradley reviews how the
paleontological resources has been dispossessed from Sioux lands and adjacent
Indian lands since they were discovered over one hundred and fifty years ago.
Lawrence makes it clear that such resources need be protected both for the
present and in the future. The author has used extensively as evidence,
publications, autobiographies, biographies, eyewitness accounts, legal cases,
maps, media reports, memoirs, museum visits, numerous examples of fossils, oral
history, and Tribal Government and U.S. Government documents. This is truly a
scholarly work, I thank my good luck in having had an opportunity to evaluate
this excellent book, which is a worthy study material as well as an interesting
read.
Reviewed by Roy T James for Reader's Favorite
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'YOU ARE WHAT YOU TWEET' by Germany Kent, is a guide to become
twitter savvy fast, can make one master this in no time, and is a good
reference to pick up the best twitter etiquettes. A very important part of
using twitter as a communication medium, the author tells in the beginning, is
to “Say something worthwhile and people will listen.” A brief discussion on the
background of the entry of twitter and a bit more elaborate one on the
protocols and manners to be adhered to, follow next. The power of twitter, as
the author mention, is to educate, entertain and to evoke emotion and the
specifics of each of these is given due attention in this book. The importance
of forming a strategy and how that will depend on the role, one would assume in
twitter, the methodology of adding vitality to ones tweets and issues related,
are also covered.
'YOU ARE WHAT YOU TWEET' by Germany Kent though is not just a
practical guide; I found it greatly helpful in making my strategy. Author has
provided bulleted lists and other tips lavishly, that too at every new
introduction of a concept, enabling quick reference and review. A comprehensive
twitter glossary and list of Twitter services that improve ones efficiency, by
creating and scheduling your Tweets, and other tools that help one track the
performance are also included in this book. This makes it helpful in learning
the nuances of tweeting, which an experienced one may get naturally. Overall, this
is a very good book, an exceptional product from an ‘overtime’ author.
Reviewed by Roy T James for Reader's Favorite
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'YOUR HEALTHIEST LIFE NOW' by DeJarra K.
Sims, as the author says, is not just another diet book; it is more about how
to prevent, becoming unhealthy in the first place. It discusses prevention of a
large variety of problems including heart disease, looks at the ways we can
control obesity while enhancing our immune systems, as well as provides a good
collection of check lists, tips, sample menus, and quiz questions for easy
assimilation. The author puts up a rather revolutionary suggestion, consider
food as merely fuel, “like the care we take while fuelling our car, where we do
not forget to insist on correct fuel, why can’t we treat our body with the same
respect, always telling ‘no’ to inexact food?”. The whole book is written in
question-answer form with, many other aspects of health, like, why, when and
how of body supplements, stress as well as a thorough discussion about health
care providers, becoming a part of the questions and answers.
'YOUR HEALTHIEST LIFE NOW' by DeJarra K.
Sims is a complete book. I couldn’t think of any question related to health and
well being that is not discussed in this. The author being a naturopath, essential
elements of that branch of cure, like diagnostics and therapies included in its
medical practice, is also integrated into this book. Many of the viewpoints,
the author have taken in his dissertation, showed me a new way to face health
and health problems. The book is also lavishly laced with practical suggestions
and examples, contact addresses of specialists and other resources, making it an
invaluable companion.
'Yes Maam' by Goddess Cheyenne, a
Veteran in the Kink community, is aimed at helping submissives accept
themselves and safely navigate through
today’s advancements and pitfalls. It begins with a general introduction to
fetishes, that they begin at puberty, usually involving an event that centers
on an object or activity causing sexual excitement or a sexual response. Author
suggests many ways to revel in the joy
of self-acknowledgment and suggest daily affirmations, like, “I accept and
embrace my kinky nature” This book also explains the nature and possible
personality of those more likely to be involving in BDSM with advices on how
they are to be dealt with, the how and when to surrender and other tips for a
lasting relationship.
'Yes Maam' by Goddess Cheyenne is
also a practical guide in joining any of such BDSM groups and contains much
advices and short tips about expected behavior and other reactions, for
starting with a good impression. Actions one has to keep in mind for
maintaining strict protocol, like ‘opening the door’ for the mistress, ‘pulling
a chair out’ when needed as well as not making aggressive glances, is given due
attention. Now that you have an idea of how to behave, it is time to brave the
stormy seas of finding the right Mistress, the author encourages the reader.
Though by not being a professional expert in this field, I am not able to opine
on the quality of these advices per se, the author seems to have covered all
sides of this issue and listed practical suggestions, making this book quite
valuable to those inclined to follow such path.
Reviewed by Roy T James for Reader's Favorite
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'Writing the Cozy Mystery' by Nancy J. Cohen is about writing a
Whodunit, which, as the author says, is a complex task. Mulling over the bits
and pieces one has gathered, the Puzzle should be made to fit together in the
end. This guide begins with the definition of a cozy mystery, its nature,
characters and components, followed by fairly detailed discussion on how these
are all to be organized. Many are the helpful suggestions contained in this
book, like adding a romantic interlude to control the pace of action, leaving
an open thread for readers to pursue in case of a series, making sure that this
mystery is completely solved by the end or, introducing a hook to compel the
reader to turn the page, to make this worthy as a ready reference.
'Writing the Cozy Mystery' by Nancy J. Cohen clearly shows the
tough side of a cozy mystery, while amply demonstrating easy and dependable
ways to crack them. Many nuances of such a popular form of literature, like
when to use a female lead, what pitfalls to watch out for, (“the pacing must be
quick, but you shouldn’t cheat the reader out of emotional reactions”) are
covered in this book. The language is friendly and engaging and the topic is
presented with suitable lists to make comprehension easy. Addresses of websites
are also given, where one can obtain further data and resources necessary in
this connection. A useful guide and ready reference,
this book has added a good set of tools to demystify the making of a mystery.
Reviewed by Roy T James for Reader's Favorite
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‘Word to the Wise “The Power of Perception”’ by Christopher
Thomas Dwight Major Jones begins with an often encountered question, “What does
it mean to be successful?” Examining the different aspects of success, like,
achieving the correct and desired result of an attempt, he goes on to the parts
played by inspiration. Thereafter he begins discussing the power of perception,
words of motivation and others. Christopher Thomas points out the significance
of ‘first impression’ in modulating our perception, the persistence, and the
potency it hides of crating fear in us. Discussing the pitfalls we face, like
making up our minds without a fair analysis, this book, he goes on to offer
tips for overcoming obstacles, recreating hope, and boosting ones self confidence.
Christopher Thomas specially mentions about the need to help others, in helping
oneself.
‘Word to the Wise “The Power of Perception”’ by Christopher
Thomas discusses the importance of inspiration in driving one to succeed and
move forward in life. He has approached the ‘problem’ of success from all
angles and rightly so, finds ‘perception’ as a major factor, the importance of
which, he presents in a beautiful quotation “You never get a second chance to
make a first impression” While discussing each and every parameter of ensuring success, the author
proposes various practical steps to achieve each. For example, in the case of
overcoming obstacles, the proposed steps are: 1: Resist the urge to compare yourself to others.
2: Give yourself challenges and celebrate
your accomplishments 3: Keep an optimistic attitude. 4: Focus on your positives
5: Never give up. A good book that analyzes success thoroughly.
Reviewed by Roy T James for Reader's Favorite
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'A WOMAN
CALLED GOD' by PETER WILKES, starts with a disclaimer that the author shall not
be responsible if anyone is excommunicated as the result of reading this book.
Immediately thereafter, he sets out to question the claim of each and every religion
that theirs is the way. He then poses the question as to why a woman can’t be
considered as a creator, which is intuitive, if nothing else. The natural
appearance of God will then be associated with characteristics or sentiments we
attach with women, love, grace, patience etc, in place of the more ferocious
ones, scary and judgmental. Also, we all could
have lived in concert with a Creator who always loves us with the same love and
joy a mother feels at the moment she first sees her newborn child.
A WOMAN CALLED GOD by PETER WILKES is a light read, perhaps
with the ability to poke our thinking buds. With funny pictures and humorous
quips, this small little book is capable of initiating more serious exchanges.
I found the author’s question interesting; however, I haven’t been able to
associate only the lighter and friendlier emotions with God to see the result. Such
lighter views of religion will go a long way in freeing our society from the
clutches of religious mores. A glance at history can tell us that organized
religion has done us more harm than good. As the author says at the end of the
book, we need to examine ways of leaving religion behind and reclaiming our
souls.
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Exceptionally well written, organized and presented, 'This
Time It's NOT Personal: Why Science Says Get over Yourself' by Sam Hicken is an inherently
captivating read that is as informed and informative as it is thoughtful and
thought-provoking. However, the author begins with an insurance, I suppose, by
saying 'There are flights of absurdist fancy interleaved with the science',
giving himself, an escape route, if thing don’t go well. No, this well written
work does not seem to be in need of any, for, stating in the beginning itself,
'for a scientist the bitterest truth is better than the sweetest lie', it takes
all issues head on.
He dwells on the origins of universe and life, describing
experiments of passing electric spark to mixture of carbon, hydrogen etc to
find how organic molecules came to life. Interleaved with respectable amount of
humor, he reminds us of a common research pitfall, while looking for connection
when some things show up on the day of a full moon, personnel think “ah, full
moon,” but on the other 28 days nobody thinks “ah, not full moon.” He has demonstrated
the perspective view of the book’s theme, the description is full of uncommon
aspects of events and occurrences, for example, people invest their IQ in
buttressing their own case rather
than in exploring
the matter more
thoroughly and evenhandedly. Plenty
of references to popular literature in related fields and invoking all the
known experts in its genre like Richard Dawkins, this book has the potential to
hold the attention of many a crowd. Easy on cognition and with a flowing
narrative, this is a good addition to ones library. As the book ends with an
admission, ‘true: Life is the dancer,
lighten up and enjoy the show’.
Reviewed by Roy T James for Reader's Favorite
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‘Why Not?
Conquering The Road Less Traveled’ by John Brown with Donna Brown is about the
journey of a life that’s had its ups and downs, of growing up disabled in a
non-disabled world. It begins with the author’s entry into the world at three
in the morning, a child diagnosed with cerebral palsy. Recounting his memories
of hospital, loving people, dear friends and his school days in general, he
mentions about the fun and difficulties of growing. Growing up with other kids
staring, laughing and calling names, as well as, his experience with marijuana
and hash are mentioned. His dreams resonate throughout the book, of becoming a
DJ, and his entry into a career that was to last more than forty years, as a
radio broadcaster.
‘Why Not?
Conquering The Road Less Traveled’ by John Brown with Donna Brown is an
inspiring book. How John meets the challenges that are a constant companion,
especially of people with difficulty and how he has to overcome those in every
step he takes, unlike the normal ones amongst us, makes that victory even
sweeter. The perseverance and dedication shown by John in meeting his ambition
is an example to all. This book thus has the potential to be a great motivator
for all kinds of people, including those with difficulty; and as the author mentions
in the book, ”My hope is that after reading this book, whether you’re disabled
or not, that when life throws at you all kinds of challenges, you meet them
head on the best you can”.
Reviewed by Roy T James for Reader's Favorite
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'When Reality Hits' by Arthur Berm is a thorough book, I could
not find a matter of contemporary interest not covered by the author. And I
couldn’t see those topics from an angle not attempted by the author. Dwelling
into all sides of human transactions and affinities giving due attention to the
changing environment, this book is a welcome addition to our literary wealth,
especially about the topics, we generally take for granted, we are
uncomfortable with or that are contentious.
Reviewed by Roy T James for Reader's Favorite
'What Most Business Owners Don’t Know...And Will Never
Know...About Internet Marketing' by John North is intended to guide one through
the internet marketing maze and to show how to change the way business is done.
The author begins with the pros of internet marketing and makes a strong case, as
to why one should engage in this. Core components of internet marketing, like
website, BLOG etc are then discussed, which is followed by acquainting one with
the types of marketing (about 100) available to choose from. A discussion about
the cautions one need to observe, followed by the myths prevailing and a look
into the latest trends in this field, and succeeded by various techniques to
enhance the current state of internet marketing brings the book to an end.
What Most Business Owners Don’t Know...And Will Never Know...About Internet Marketing by John North is a comprehensive guide for implementing the latest marketing strategies. More than enabling one to be always up-to-date with the state of the art, the strategies mentioned in this book can empower one to be ahead of competitors, an essential need in a fast moving market. The book is well written, all topics related to internet marketing is dealt comprehensively and thoroughly. Stepwise, simple and clear instructions, including the directions for handling mistakes and other embarrassments, make the transition to a generational change in technology and approach, fairly easy to achieve. A navigable table of contents would have greatly eased the use of this as a ready reference.
Reviewed by Roy T James for Reader's Favorite
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‘The Vending
Machine Effect’ by Boydell Randolph is about what the author calls as the
Vending Machine Effect, how we have allowed outside limitations to determine
the choices that we make in our lives. The author begins by saying that the one
thing, that differentiate humans from all other forms of life is that humans
exercise the power of choice. See, the lion is a lion every day of its life,
and so is a rat, or any other form of life. But human can become whatever they
want, whenever they choose. Thereafter he examines other aspects of life and
living, things like, the power of ones wish, the tendency to follow a herd, the
whole idea of ownership, the propensity to be lazy and the human necessity to
have a ‘want’, always and every time. These precepts, if followed, can free one
from the chains, and enable making ones own choices.
‘The Vending Machine Effect’ by Boydell Randolph is a new
look at the manifestation of human nature. Some areas or discussions found in
this book could be found at other places, but a formulation like this, to
represent human nature is a unique approach. I am in no position to certify to
the veracity of the author’s findings, but it has been presented convincingly,
deserving a second look. Though this book does not leave a reader question
free, if contains many new ideas to keep a discerning reader engaged for long.
Well organized book with operational table of contents.
Reviewed by Roy T James for Reader's Favorite
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‘UNTAMED SILK’ by W.
B. Klift begins with John Verraine, of Verraine wear fame, celebrating the
entry of Diana Franks as an executive. Diana was the perfect choice, sexy,
charming, and expressive, for the line of clothing launched for those from the glamorous
sides of life. David Stern, another important member of the team, who has
certain philanthropic connections in Africa, is involved with a project to develop a wild silk industry
in Africa. David finds himself
attracted to Diana, who forgets about her independent nature and becomes almost
glued to him. She even takes certain detours and risky adventures to free her
mind of this. When information is received regarding arrest of David in Africa,
a team proceeds to Africa for further help. During Diana’s trip to Africa as
part of the team, a combined operation of African and UN forces take place,
leading to the rescue and release of David.
‘UNTAMED SILK’ by W. B. Klift is a gripping novel. The self
confident nature of the protagonists is clearly visible in the events that
unfold. The climactic scenes towards the end of the novel truly reflect the
deep anguish and sense of loss felt by all those connected with David including
the agonizing response of Diana. “Tears were flowing; she couldn’t stop them.
“Yes, yes. I don’t know what … There must be something …. “
A moment of clarity that shocked her into resolve. “I have to
go to him!”
“What? I’m sorry, I don’t understand.”
“I’m going there. Wherever he is. I have to see him.””
Reviewed by Roy T James for Reader's Favorite
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